AS secondary students begin to navigate the often-complex transition from school to an ever-competitive workforce, the role of career education in schools has never been more important. At a time when choices made in the classroom can shape opportunities for years to come, the guidance students receive from dedicated Careers and Pathways teachers, as well as from whole-school initiatives, can make all the difference.
At Shepparton ACE Secondary College, it is well understood that the opportunities provided through its Careers and Pathways program, along with the dedicated guidance and support of its teachers, led by Sile Coleman, can be crucial in helping students pursue fulfilling career pathways.
From Year 9, students are introduced to a wide range of industries through hands-on activities and visits from volunteer professionals. In Year 10, they explore their interests further through work experience and community-based volunteering.
By Years 11 and 12, the program becomes increasingly personalised. Students take part in tailored industry excursions, receive one-on-one planning support, and many begin school-based apprenticeships or traineeships.
Strong partnerships with La Trobe University and GOTAFE help ensure that students are well supported in pursuing diverse and meaningful pathways toward bright and rewarding careers.
Brock Hood, a former student who attended Shepparton ACE from Year 8 to Year 12, is a shining example of the program’s impact.
Now in his second year of a Certificate III in Locksmithing at Solar City Locksmiths, Brock said,
“Sile Coleman pushed me quite strongly towards a career. Originally, it was in automotive, and then my boss, Keegan Moylan, came in for an industry talk. I thought it was quite interesting, so I did some work experience and found that I really enjoyed it.
“Sile organised a lot of the work experience—she handled the paperwork and contacted the businesses I worked with during my time at ACE. She was the main driving force behind a lot of the trade work I did.”
Brock believes his experience at ACE shaped not just his career, but who he is today.
