Pathways to Possibility: Supporting Our Senior Students to Take Their Next Steps
As our students move into their senior years, planning for life beyond school becomes an increasingly important part of their learning journey.
To support this transition, the Notre Dame College Careers Hub will be running a series of Pathways to Possibility workshops during the Early Commencement Program (ECP). These workshops are designed to equip 2026 Year 11 and 12 students with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills they need to make informed decisions about their future.
Across the two-week period, students will have access to a wide range of sessions that explore post-school options such as university, TAFE, apprenticeships, traineeships, gap years and employment. They will also gain valuable insight into some of the key processes they will encounter in their final years, including VTAC applications, SEAS, early entry programs, accommodation decisions, budgeting, and preparing creative portfolios or auditions.
The workshops are interactive, relevant, and tailored to the needs of senior students. Topics include:
- VTAC Ready: Your Guide to Preferences and Applications
- Crack the Code: Early Entry Explained
- Living Away 101: Accommodation & Budgeting
- Tradie Talks: Real Pathways into Apprenticeships
- Showcase Success: Portfolios, Interviews & Auditions
- TAFE Tasters: Programs & Possibilities
- Gap Year Planning and Opportunities
- Insights from the Monash Mentoring Program
These sessions are delivered in practical, student-friendly formats, supported by guest speakers, university partners, industry representatives, and past Notre Dame College graduates who can share real-world experiences.
We strongly encourage parents and guardians to talk with their child about attending the workshops most relevant to their future direction. Whether they are aiming for university, seeking hands-on training, exploring trades, considering a gap year, or still figuring things out — there is something in this program to support every pathway.
Your support in encouraging participation will help students enter their senior years feeling informed, motivated, and empowered to take the next steps confidently. A full guide to the workshops, including dates and student cohorts, is included in this newsletter for your reference. Registration details have been sent to all current year 9, 10 & 11 students.
If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact the Careers Hub.
We look forward to working closely with students and families as they begin this next exciting journey.
