What’s On in the Next Few Weeks
 

University of Newcastle | Campus Tours
August 11 to December 8, 2023
Join us on one of our beautiful campuses for a personalised walking tour.
Let our Student Ambassadors show you some of our must-see teaching and learning spaces, their favourite study spots, and of course – where to get the best coffee on campus. Not only will you get a personalised tour, but an opportunity to ask as many questions as you have about what uni life is really like!
Tours are offered across five of our campus locations in Newcastle and the Central Coast.
Find out more

Dr Karl Fire-Ed Up Q and A
August 14, 2023
Dr Karl is teaming up with the Chief Scientist & Engineer’s ‘Fire-Ed Up’ program for this enlightening webinar, casting a spotlight on the role of Science and Technology in bolstering our defences against bushfires amidst the escalating risks posed by climate change.
Expect to delve deep into the nature of fire, its profound impact on the Australian terrain, and the groundbreaking use of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing bushfire predictions, future fire-related industries, among other intriguing topics.
Get ready for a treasure trove of scientific knowledge, delivered by none other than Australia’s favourite scientist, Dr Karl. He’s prepared and eager to satisfy your scientific curiosities.
Find out more

SciFest 2023
August 14 to August 18, 2023
SciFest 2023 is the biggest virtual excursions festival in Australia promoting science and technology. SciFest links up with National Science week and is on between 14 – 18 August. This year we have 15 events from some of Australia’s best education providers.
The theme for National Science Week in 2023 is Innovation: Powering Future Industries. The theme incorporates the advancement in technology in all industries, especially using artificial intelligence (AI).
Find out more

University of Sydney | Deadly Entertainment
August 14, 2023
In the 1930’s being a film projectionist in a cinema was a hazardous job. In the USA it was estimated that every 18 days a projectionist died – and this was partly attributed to working with cellulose nitrate film. Cellulose nitrate transparent plastic film was used by photographers and movie filmmakers from its release in the 1880s to the 1950s.
The storage of this material is a challenge for cultural institutions because of its instability and hazardous nature, as nitrate is highly flammable and deteriorates over time. Historically, cellulose acetate gradually began to replace cellulose nitrate as it is not flammable. Despite its non-flammable properties, leading to cellulose acetate being called ‘safety’ film, over time it became clear that it also deteriorates in hazardous ways.
This floor talk will discuss how a team of conservators, chemists and statisticians worked together to develop a protocol that is now used internationally by cultural heritage institutions to identify cellulose nitrate and cellulose acetate film bases.
Find out more

WEP | Student Exchange Info Session
August 14, 2023
Imagine making friends from all over the world, learning about yourself and the world around you and seeing sights you could only dream of! Find out more about your student exchange opportunities at WEP’s online info session.
Find out more

Basair | Pilot Career Seminar, Sydney
August 14, 2023
Learn about career paths, salaries, entry level jobs, qualifications, pilot courses and everything you need to know about becoming a Commercial Pilot in less than a year at Basair.
Find out more

WSU | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Information Evening
August 15 to August 16, 2023
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Future Students Information Evenings at Western Sydney University is an opportunity to hear about what programs are on offer and how Western can help you during your studies. Learn about the different pathways to study, the support services available, scholarships on offer and life on campus.
Find out more

UOW | Early Admission Audition Webinar
August 15, 2023
As a part of your Early Admission application to the Bachelor of Performance and Theatre (Acting) you are required to submit an audition. This webinar will provide you with all the information you need to ace your audition, including:

Timeline & key dates

Audition performance pieces

Audition tips and advice

The audition assessment process

Find out more

UNSW | Meganne Christian: An Evening with a Future Astronaut
August 15, 2023
Embark on a captivating journey into the realm of space exploration as we unravel the remarkable story of Meganne Christian, a trailblazer whose unconventional path has led her to the stars. With a degree in Engineering from UNSW Sydney, Meganne’s path took her to the ends of the Earth as a scientist in Antarctica. From there she soared even higher, earning a coveted spot as an astronaut in reserve, with dreams of venturing into the cosmos. 
Discover the fascinating role of a reservist astronaut, as Meganne unveils the rigorous selection process and both the physical and mental training required to be part of this elite group, as well as the importance of space research and its impact our everyday lives. Join us for an evening of inspiration with Meganne Christian in conversation with Audes Vignelle as they unveil the secrets of her extraordinary journey and invites us to imagine a future where the stars are within our reach.
Find out more

UNSW | Earth Conservation x Space Exploration
August 15, 2023
What’s more important: Earth’s conservation or space exploration?
It’s a tough question, and in this interactive event, you choose whether you explore the physics of life and energy on Earth or in space, or both!
If exploring the Earth, you can learn about renewable energy and the physics that connects us to the cosmos, or, if space is more your thing, you can learn about cool (literally) space technology and imagine a future where the stars are within your reach. There will also be telescopes and a planetarium for those wanting to immerse themselves deeper into the Universe.
Meet some of our brightest stars (up-and-coming teaching and research academics) as they guide you through this ‘choose your own adventure’ experience!
Find out more

Tradeswomen Australia | Trades Information Session
August 16, 2023
This info session will be held in Marrickville and everyone is welcome. Ask questions about your potential career in trades and whether they would suit you. What trades are available? What can you earn? Connect with TWA staff who can help you.
Find out more

University of Sydney | The Bachelor of Advanced Studies Webinar
August 16, 2023
Learn about the Bachelor of Advanced Studies and find out how this degree can give you the flexibility to pursue multiple areas of interest and graduate with specialisation in two specific fields of study.
Find out more

University of Sydney | Infinity Mathematics Workshop
August 16, 2023
National Science Week after-school workshop for high school students at the University of Sydney.
In this workshop, we will have a deeper look into counting to infinity and try to figure out if all infinities are equal or one thing can be more infinite than another one. We will explore the mathematics of infinity through discussion and solving problems.
This event will be presented by University of Sydney mathematician, Milena Radnovic. 
Find out more

Monash | Information Evening – Apply from Interstate – NSW & ACT
August 16, 2023
We know that choosing a university is a big decision, especially if you don’t live in Melbourne. 
Monash Information Evenings are the perfect opportunity to have your questions answered on everything you wanted to know about undergraduate study at Monash.
You’ll hear about:

our 10 diverse study and discipline areas

undergraduate course types, such as our comprehensive and specialist courses, double degrees and pathway programs

international opportunities including study abroad and overseas tours

how to apply – everything you need to know about VTAC, key dates and deadlines

scholarships and fees

Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) and the Monash Guarantee

accommodation options, both on and off campus.

At the conclusion of the information seminar, you’ll have the opportunity to join a breakout room and chat with staff from your area of interest.
Find out more

Aviation Job Skills Workshop – Blacktown
August 17, 2023 
Join us at our workshop to explore the huge variety of Airports and Aviation job career pathways available to the women of Western Sydney.
Each workshop is designed to share career pathways, training options and skill requirements, job application tips for women to apply for aviation jobs. It’s a great insight into the amazing career opportunities that exists at Airports, including careers that do not require any formal qualifications to enter.
Find out more

University of Sydney | Twist and Turn: The Arithmetic of Ropes
August 17, 2023
National Science Week after-school workshop for high school students at the University of Sydney.
In this activity, we take a mathematical spin on tangling and untangling! We will consider a situation where we have two ropes and apply two possible operations: a twist and a turn. In this simple setup, we can create deceivingly complex tangles, but can we untangle them using the same two operations? We will answer this question by exploring the mathematics behind these tangles in a combination of hands-on activities and discussions.
This event will be presented by University of Sydney mathematician, Andy Tran. 
Find out more

Powerhouse Late: Science
August 17, 2023
A celebration of science bringing together Sydney’s leading scientists. Featuring ‘The Drag Experiment’ with Dr. Naomi Koh Belic, DNA sonification with Dr Mark Temple and the ABC’s Ockham’s Razor. Join us for another iteration of Drawing Club, a free workshop embracing the practice of drawing, facilitated by Lucas Ihlein.
Find out more

University of Sydney | Meet Sydney, Coffs Harbour
August 17, 2023
Join us for an information evening to find out all you need to know about the University of Sydney!
Learn about our new Regional and Remote Entry Scheme and MySydney Scheme. 
The session will also cover information about courses, admission requirements, entry schemes/pathways, fees, and scholarships, as well as the type of support available on campus.
Uni students and alumni from Regional NSW will share stories, tips on moving away from home and advice about their journey to university and beyond.
You’ll also get the chance to speak with staff and students and have all your questions about the University of Sydney answered.
Find out more

ACAP | Information Session, Sydney
August 17, 2023
Join us at the Sydney ACAP Campus for this in-person information session! 
By joining us on campus you can:

Enjoy a tour of the campus, with refreshments and nibbles.

Attend discipline-specific interactive sessions to find out all about the courses you are interested in.

Meet Student Ambassadors and hear about their first-hand experiences and opportunities.

Chat with educators and Course Advisors about courses and potential careers you are interested in.

Connect with Student Learning Support Advisors and other ACAP staff about services on offer.

Have your questions answered and receive assistance with the admissions process.

Find out more

Dr Karl and Friends: Innovation and Beyond
August 17, 2023
Take a ride with Dr Karl through the past 100 years of the greatest scientific discoveries and innovations that changed our lives forever.
Today’s thinkers will do the same, but how? Dr Karl will talk to four future-focused researchers poised to blast our futures into the stratosphere.

Professor Anita Ho-Baillie is it possible to double the efficiency of a solar panel on your roof from 20% to 40%?

Professor Emma Johnston whose marine ecology research covers everything from bushfires and invasive species, to marine pollution (macro and micro plastics).

Associate Professor Michael Bowen whose neuroscience research aims to treat opioid addiction and help tackle the devastating opioid crisis.

Professor Geordie Williamson whose research is harnessing the power of AI to attack problems in mathematics, shedding light along the way on what current AI can and cannot do.

Hosted by Associate Professor Alice Motion.
Feed your curiosity, expand your mind and dive into the future with this evening of possibilities. 
Bring your questions for our live Q&A, and receive prizes for audience member/s wearing the funkiest and loudest shirt, judged by Dr Karl!
Find out more

Indigenous Science Experience at Redfern
August 19, 2023
This free, community open event is a celebration of Indigenous and Western science and highlights the relevance of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to our everyday lives.NISEP – Indigenous Science Experience @ Redfern. 
Come along to get hands-on with a diverse range of interactive science activities accessible to all ages. Activities will include: Yarning with Elders on bush foods and medicines, Indigenous astronomy, maths puzzles, making Aboriginal tools, physics and chemistry activities, and much more! You will also meet Indigenous Elders and student leaders from the National Indigenous Science Education Program who will be assisting in demonstrating the activities.
The event will begin with a traditional smoking ceremony and official welcome (10 am). There will also be the opportunity to purchase food and Aboriginal arts and crafts.
Find out more

AFTRS | Open Day 2023
August 19, 2023
Each year, we hold our annual Open Day on campus at AFTRS, focusing on the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production, Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting, Master of Arts Screen and Master of Arts Screen: Business programs.
Prospective students get to know our lecturers, students, and alumni, attend live chats and panel discussions, participate in exciting hands-on exercises, take an access-all-areas campus tour, settle into a screening of work produced at the School, and get some tips on applications for the upcoming intake.
Find out more

Pico Coding Club (9-14 year olds)
August 19 to August 20, 2023
Ready for an adventure into the exciting world of coding? Join the Pico Coding Club! We teach coding through building and sharing bite-sized games in our 60-minute workshop. 
At Pico Coding Club, we believe in playful and interactive learning. We foster curiosity and encourage experimentation. Kids will follow the instructor’s examples and unleash their creativity by experimenting with their own code. They’ll also have the chance to share their creations with fellow students. 
We will be teaching JavaScript, the world’s most popular programming language. With JavaScript, kids can unlock a world of possibilities and create some seriously cool things.
No prior coding experience is required. We warmly welcome learners of all experience levels to join us on this coding adventure.
Find out more

ACU | Year 12 Revision Webinars
August 21 to September 7, 2023
Worried about your Year 12 exams? You’re not alone. We know this can be a stressful time, which is why we’ve teamed up with InspirED to help you do your very best and get ready for what’s to come.
Join us for a series of free online webinars run by experienced Year 12 exam markers and assessors. They’ll guide you through how to respond to possible exam questions, help you get your head around the class content to deepen your understanding, and offer plenty of tips and strategies along the way.
Find out more

WSU | Discover Western: Applying for University & Receiving an Early Offer
August 22, 2023
Hear from Western staff and current students about our HSC True Reward Early Offer program, how to accept your early offer and change preferences, other alternate entry programs and more.
Find out more

CAA | Webinar: What’s Changing for VET in Schools?
August 23, 2023
Find out about upcoming changes and what it means for your school and students.
Find out more

Important Future Events

TAFE NSW | Virtual Open Day 2023
August 24, 2023 
Discover all that TAFE NSW has to offer while connecting with experts who can help you make decisions around your future studies. Join us for webinars, browse the exhibition hall and view our on-demand content to learn more about studying with TAFE NSW.
Find out more

UTS | Open Day 2023
August 26, 2023
We’re excited to announce that registrations for UTS Open Day are now open! Join us on-campus to explore your course and career options available at UTS.
With 100+ info sessions, campus tours, 1-1 chats and workshops on offer, Open Day is the place to get your questions answered.
Find out more

AIM | Open Day 2023, Sydney
August 26, 2023
Join us for Open Day at our Sydney Campus, and experience everything AIM has to offer! 
Explore our campus, get course advice, experience live performances, meet our teachers and students, and take part in activities that will give you a taste of student life here at AIM.
Whether you’re ready to study now, or in five years’ time, Open Day is open to all and a fantastic opportunity to discover how the Australian Institute of Music can help turn your passion for music into a career.
Find out more

Notre Dame | Sydney Open Day 2023
August 26, 2023
Chat to our academics, alumni and current students about your study options and university life. Register now for our 2023 Open Day and explore everything that Notre Dame has to offer!
Find out more

NAS | Open Day 2023
September 2, 2023
The National Art School is Australia’s leading fine art school, with an unrivalled studio-based teaching model that has delivered a rich tradition of artistic practice and generations of world-renowned alumni for the past 100 years. Leading into the 21st Century, NAS provides a progressive and holistic art education, and invites you to join us on Open Day to share our creative community.
Everyone is welcome at Open Day, from those considering art as a career to anyone simply curious about what happens behind the school’s historic sandstone walls. 
There will still be plenty of opportunity to see what life is like for students at NAS, with demonstrations in the studios, the chance to drop in on classes, and to enjoy shows in our exhibition spaces.
Find out more

YES (Young Entrepreneur Summit) Primary, Sydney
September 7, 2023
Run by young people, for young people, YES (Young Entrepreneur Summit) is a one-day, interactive summit designed to inspire and empower a generation of brave, creative and entrepreneurial young leaders.
YES is a super high energy, action-packed, one day event that features keynote presentations, panel discussions and interactive group workshops on a whole range of ‘adulting skills’ such as public speaking, financial literacy, ideation and collaboration + team work.
This event is designed for students in Grade 3 to Grade 6.
Find out more

Sydney Careers & Employment Expo 2023
September 8 to September 9, 2023
Sydney’s New Careers & Employment Event will open on September 8 & 9, 2023, at the Hordern Pavilion, Moore Park. The Expo will showcase over 100 organisations and employers with career opportunities for all ages. Entry is free.
The event is for school students, parents, teachers, graduates, job seekers, people looking for courses and workers seeking new training options.
Find out more

YES (Young Entrepreneur Summit) Secondary, Sydney
September 8, 2023
Run by young people, for young people, YES (Young Entrepreneur Summit) is a one-day, interactive summit designed to inspire and empower a generation of brave, creative and entrepreneurial young leaders.
YES is a super high energy, action-packed, one day event that features keynote presentations, panel discussions and interactive group workshops on a whole range of ‘adulting skills’ such as public speaking, financial literacy, ideation and collaboration + team work.
This event is designed for secondary school students (Grade 7 to 12) and young adults (17 to 21 years).
Find out more

Macquarie | [EX]plore Science Extension Conference
September 11, 2023
Year 12 Science Extension students, Year 10 and 11 Students and teachers, join us to celebrate the research of Year 12 students undertaking HSC Science Extension in a research conference setting. Meet like-minded school students, undergraduates and PhD researchers to share your passion for science.
The full-day conference will include talks and posters presented by Year 12 Science Extension students, opportunities to network and meet undergraduate and PhD researchers, and lab tours throughout the Faculty of Science to get a taste for how your research journey can continue at university.
Find out more

Scholarships

Scholarships for regional and rural students
If you live far away from the nearest university, it might seem like the costs of moving town are too much. Thankfully, universities and other institutions recognise this, and provide scholarship opportunities tailored to people living in regional and rural areas. So if you think it’s too expensive to move away for university, think again.

Am I eligible for a regional or rural scholarship?
Regional and rural scholarships are, as the name suggests, available to people who live in regional and rural areas. Each scholarship provider will give details of what they consider ‘regional’ or ‘rural’ in their eligibility criteria. You will usually need to have lived or studied in an area classed as regional or remote for a certain period of time.
Not only do these scholarships support you to move away from home, but some also assist with staying in regional and remote areas – providing more incentive for people to study and work where jobs are needed most.

Why should I apply for a regional or rural scholarship?
There are lots of reasons you might want to apply for a regional or remote scholarship:

Financial assistance: This is generally the main reason you’ll apply for a scholarship. The money can go towards things like tuition and study expenses, moving costs, accommodation, or other expenses. 

Accommodation assistance: Sometimes regional and remote scholarships come with bonus perks, such as priority access to accommodation or discounted rates. 

Development opportunities: Some scholarships are designed to encourage students to study and work in regional and remote areas, and come with bonuses including exclusive events, development workshops, and career counselling.

While some scholarship applications can be competitive, there are often hundreds of scholarships that go unawarded each year because nobody applies – there’s no harm in giving it a go.

5 regional and rural scholarships to check out
Here are some regional and rural scholarships we’ve found that you might like to take a look at:

Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships – supports people from regional and remote areas in Australia studying from Certificate IV through to PhD level.

Destination Australia Scholarship Program – funds eligible tertiary education providers to offer scholarships to domestic and international students to study and live in regional Australia.

FRS Scholarships – awards scholarships to an exceptional group of rural students in the US for their first year of college or vocational school.

Hagan Scholarship – a nationwide need-based merit scholarship, designed to provide recipients with the opportunity to graduate college debt-free.

RMA Scholarship Program – designed to encourage young rural Albertans to pursue further education.

You can also search our Scholarships Database for tons more scholarships, or contact the university of your choice and ask about scholarships.

Getting Ready for Work

When can I start work?
A big part of growing up is starting work. It can be great to have some extra money for yourself, feel more independent, as well as learning the skills you’ll need in the workforce for the rest of your life.
But before you get too keen, there are some things you need to know before you rush out and start applying.

What age can I start working?
The minimum age for starting work is different depending on the state or territory you live in. 
Take a look at the information we’ve gathered below. 

Australian Capital Territory
In the ACT, you can start work from any age you like. However, young people under the age of 15 may only be employed in what is considered “light work”. Your employer will also need written parental consent if you are under 15.

New South Wales
There are no minimum age restrictions to start work in New South Wales. However, if you are under 15 there may be some restrictions on the type of work you can do and how many hours you can work.

Queensland
The minimum working age in Queensland is 13 (for work other than in entertainment). But you can be as young as 11 for a supervised paper delivery job.

Victoria
In Victoria you must be 13 before you can start work (in any industry other than entertainment). However if you are under the age of 15, your employer will need to apply for a license to employ children. If you are 11 you can get a paper delivery job, and you can work at any age in a family business.

South Australia
There is no minimum age to start work in South Australia. But keep in mind that your age may restrict you from working certain hours.

Western Australia
The minimum work age in Western Australia depends on what work you are doing. Children of any age can work in a family business, in entertainment, or for a charity. Between 10 and 12, you can work in a paper delivery job, but only if you are supervised. If you are 13 or 14, you can do all of the above, as well work in retail.
If you are under 15, you will always need written permission from a parent to start work. 

Northern Territory
There is no minimum age to start work in the Northern Territory, however the types of work you can do and your hours may be restricted if you are under the age of 15, or if it will interfere with your education. 

Tasmania
There is no minimum age to start part-time or casual work in Tasmania. However, you may be limited in the types of work you can do and your hours. 

What other restrictions are there?
There are also restrictions other than age to consider when starting work. These include how many hours per day or week you are allowed to work, when you are allowed to work, and if you are allowed to leave school to work.

Australian Capital Territory
If you are under the age of 15, you are only allowed to work up to 10 hours per week. Up to 17 years of age, you are not permitted to work during school hours (with the exception of the school holidays). Your work must also not interfere with your education or training in any way.
This means that you might not be allowed to work late at night or early in the morning.
You must remain in full-time education until you complete Year 10. After this, you must remain in either full-time education, training, or work until you finish Year 12 or turn 17.

New South Wales
In New South Wales, under the age of 15 you aren’t allowed to work during school hours. You can’t work more than one shift a day, and for more than 5 days in a row. You can’t work for more than 4 hours total on a school day. You can’t work later than 9.00pm if you have school the next day. You must not work and attend school for more than 50 hours a week combined.
You must remain in school until you finish Year 10. You can then choose to either stay at school, find an apprenticeship or traineeship, engage in higher education or VET, or start working full-time.

Queensland
In Queensland, you cannot work during school hours, or between 10.00pm and 6.00am. On a school day, you can work up to 4 hours, and 12 hours total during a school week. On non-school days, you can work up to 8 hours, and up to 38 hours total during non-school weeks.
You must stay in school until you turn 16, or finish Year 10 (whichever comes first). After this you can leave school to work full-time, or participate in a combination of education and training.

Victoria
During the school term, you can only work up to 3 hours per day and up to 12 hours per week. 
You can’t work during school hours. You aren’t allowed to work between 9pm and 6am.
Outside of the school term, you can work up to 6 hours a day and a maximum of 30 hours per week. 
You aren’t allowed to leave school until you turn 17. However, once you finish Year 10, you no longer have to attend a school campus – but you must still participate in education, training, or employment for a minimum of 25 hours a week.

South Australia
In South Australia, you aren’t allowed to work during compulsory school hours under the age of 16. You also can’t work at times that might affect your education or training, such as late at night or early in the morning.
You must attend school until you turn 16. After this, you can either stay and complete your schooling, participate in an approved learning program (such as an apprenticeship), or work full-time. You may be able to leave school to work full-time once you turn 15 with an exemption.

Western Australia
You are allowed to work in Western Australia as long as it doesn’t interfere with your schooling. 
If you are of compulsory school age, you can’t work during school hours, and under the age of 15, you can’t work between 10.00pm and 6.00am.
If you want to leave school after Year 10, you will need to apply for an exemption through the Minister for Education and Training. You must still remain in a combination of education, training, or employment.

Northern Territory
In the NT, young people can’t work between the hours of 10.00pm and 6.00am. You can’t work during hours you’re supposed to be at school.
You must stay in school until you finish Year 10 or turn 15 years old. After this, you can decide to continue on with your education, or participate in a combination of approved education and/or training and employment until you are 17.

Tasmania
In Tasmania, you aren’t allowed to work during school hours. 
Usually you must stay in school until you finish Year 12, complete a Certificate III qualification, or turn 18. However, if you have completed Year 10, you may apply for an exemption if you would like to leave school to work full-time.

Other restrictions

Keep in mind that as well as all of the above, individual employers might also have their own separate policies about employing young people. For example, McDonald’s has a minimum age policy of 14, regardless of whether legislation in your state or territory allows you to work earlier than this.
If there’s a place you’d really like to work, make sure you get in contact with them first and ask whether or not they have a minimum age policy.

Where can I find more information?
If you want to know more about starting work, there are plenty of handy resources out there you can check out. You can find them all on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website here.
Keen to learn more about careers? Check out our Careers page for information about your dream career area, tips to get your first job, and more.

Work Experience
 

Getting ready for work experience
Work experience is your chance to learn, explore, and build valuable skills that will serve you well in the future. To make the most of your work experience placement, we have some tips to help you get ready.

Research the company
Before you start your work experience, take some time to research the company or organisation you’ll be working with. Learn about their mission, values, and the industry they’re in. This will not only impress your supervisors but also give you a better understanding of what to expect.

Dress appropriately
Dressing appropriately is crucial. Find out if there’s a dress code at the workplace and make sure to follow it. If in doubt, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. 

Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s expected that you’ll have a lot to learn, so don’t hesitate to seek clarification if something isn’t clear. This shows that you’re eager to learn and engaged in the experience.

Practice basic etiquette 
Good manners go a long way. Practice basic etiquette, such as greeting people with a smile, using proper language, and showing respect to your colleagues and supervisors.

Show initiative
Take the initiative to learn and contribute. If you finish a task, ask for more work or inquire about other projects you can assist with. This shows your enthusiasm and willingness to go the extra mile.

Be punctual
Arriving on time is a sign of reliability. Always be punctual and ready to start your day. It’s better to arrive a little early than to keep others waiting.

Take notes
If you can, bring a notebook and jot down important information. This will help you remember details, instructions, and any insights you gain during your work experience.

Listen and learn
Pay attention to what’s happening around you. Listen to conversations, observe workflows, and try to understand how different tasks contribute to the overall goals of the company.

Be open to feedback
Accept feedback with an open mind. Constructive criticism is meant to help you improve, so don’t take it personally. Use feedback as an opportunity to grow and develop your skills.

Network and connect
Use your time to connect with professionals in the field. Networking can open doors for future opportunities. Don’t hesitate to ask about their career paths and seek advice.

Reflect on your experience
After your work experience is over, take some time to reflect. What did you learn? What skills did you acquire? How did this experience shape your career aspirations? Reflecting on these questions will help you gain insights into your future goals.

You can find more blogs and advice about getting ready for work experience and search for opportunities on our website here.

Competitions

Robogals Science Challenge 
The Robogals Science Challenge is a global online STEM competition for girls and gender diverse students aged 5-15. It aims to promote innovation and exploration through hands-on projects, which can be completed with a friend, parent, or mentor.
The competition format has two main Challenges. Participants are required to complete 2 Minor Challenges before being eligible for the Major Challenge.
Participants are entered into one of three age divisions:

Junior: 5 – 8 years

Intermediate: 9 – 12 years

Senior: 13 – 15 years

The Major Challenge is open until 4 October.
Find out more and register here.

The Letter Review Prizes
Letter Review is an online Literary Journal dedicated to publishing new work, and assisting writers with help to get published, performed, and produced. They feature interviews with professional writers, publish helpful information, run competitions with cash prizes, and remain open to unsolicited submissions of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
They are currently running writing competitions in four areas:

Poetry

Short Fiction

Non-fiction

Manuscripts

Letter Review is offering up to $1,000 USD total prize pool in each competition. No subject or style restrictions. Open to writers who live anywhere in the world.
Entries close 1 September.
Find out more and enter here.

Resources

National Science Week 2023
This year, National Science Week will take place from Saturday 12 to Sunday 20 August.
All around Australia there will be a huge variety of live online events, virtual tours, competitions and fun activities to participate in and grow your STEM knowledge.
Take a look at what’s on and find a whole bunch of resources here. 

Alternative pathways to university and beyond 
Lots of people assume that once you finish high school, your next move will be to head off to university. And while this is a great goal to aim for, sometimes it just doesn’t seem possible.
There are lots of reasons for this, including:

You didn’t get the results you needed

You missed a prerequisite subject

You need to move a long way to follow your dream and you’re not ready for that yet

You’ve had enough of study for now and want a break

And whether you’re concerned your grades won’t get you into your preferred course or you don’t even want to go to uni, there are plenty of options out there to suit you.

Alternative pathways into university
Universities want you to attend (they’re a business at the end of the day, and more students means more income). So if you’ve chosen a course you really like – or a uni you really want to go to – check their website for alternative pathways they might offer. These often include things like:

Bridging courses

Enabling courses

Portfolio entry

Preparation programs

Special admissions tests

Most universities offer lots of different alternative pathway options, and you could be studying towards your preferred degree in no time at all. Most pathways involve a bit of extra work, but it’ll be worth it in the end.

I don’t want to go to uni – what now?
Alternative pathways aren’t just limited to university. You could apply for a job straight out of school, get lots of experience, and work your way up the career ladder. It’s not an easy route by any means, but if it’s an option for the career of your choice, you’ll start earning straight away and be pursuing the job you wanted.
There are still lots of different jobs out there where tertiary education isn’t a requirement. As long as you meet the job requirements and nail your interview, you could be embarking on a career within months of leaving school.
Plus, many universities offer what are known as “experience based” pathways – so if you ever change your mind, you can use your work experience to study down the track.

Vocational qualifications
There are literally thousands of vocational qualifications available, delivering workplace dddddddtttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttddddddddddddddddddddddddddsssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss