Newsletter 7:
VTAC Guide and Registration
Careers Appointments
Appointments are filling up quickly so if you haven’t already spoken to Pheona about options for next year, visit the Careers Centre and write your name next to a spare time. Year 12’s can ask about how to register for VTAC, using Courselink (on the VTAC website), compiling preferences, prerequisites, extra requirements, etc. Year 11’s can ask about subject selection for next year. Other services such as resume and cover letter writing, employment assistance, apprenticeships, gap year activities, etc are also available.
VTAC Registration
Registration is open so visit the VTAC website and register now. Step 1 is ‘Register for a VTAC ID and PIN’. Your ID is your VCAA ID – if you forget yours check with Pheona or the lists outside the Study Support Office. There will also be lunchtime sessions in the computer rooms – look out for posters listing days and times. If you register now it’ll only be $23 (plus $8 if you have an invoice sent out). Once you register, Step 2 is ‘Login to MyInfo’ where you can apply for courses, lodge a SEAS application, and apply for scholarships. http://www.vtac.edu.au
VTAC Guide 2010
The VTAC Guide 2010 is out now and available from the newsagent for $15. You should no longer consult the 2009 version. There are also some copies to check out in the Careers Centre. The Guide includes important dates, processing and administrative fees, information about VTAC, courses, tests, results, offers, etc. If you want some help understanding how to “read” it please see Pheona. http://www.vtac.edu.au/publications/guide.html
ABC of Applying
There is a copy of the VTAC publication ‘ABC of Applying’ for each Year 12 student. They were given out during mentor so if you missed out please grab one from the Careers Centre. It explains what VTAC is, how to register, how to search for courses, extra information you may need to supply such as a Personal Information form, and how offers happen. http://www.vtac.edu.au/publications.html
Open Days
Open Days have already started so it’s important you track down the list of dates now so you don’t miss out on too many. There are lists around the school and a pdf on the school website. Some courses requiring an audition/interview/folio may ask you about your experiences at Open Day – a difficult question to answer if you didn’t go.
Extra Requirements
Around 50% of courses consider applicants based on range of criteria that may include the ENTER, folio, interview, pre-selection tests, additional forms, etc. The VTAC Guide lists what the extra requirements are, how you can find out more information, and what the due dates are. Many of the due dates are in September, October and November so it’s important that you read the VTAC Guide now and write down all important dates in your diary.
SEAS
The Special Entry Access Scheme puts those of you who have experienced disadvantage on a level playing field with those who haven’t. SEAS is only relevant if you are going on to further study next year. It is not related to VCAA special consideration – it’s a separate process. SEAS is not about what happened – it’s about the impact it had on you. There are 9 different categories and you can apply under multiple categories. However, you need evidence to support your impact statement. If in doubt – lodge a SEAS application and let the institution decide. Applications can be made through the VTAC website (eg, MyInfo section). Please see Pheona, Nick or Rachel for more information. http://www.vtac.edu.au/publications.html
Scholarships
Each year tens of thousands of dollars in scholarship funds are not taken up. One application through VTAC makes you eligible for hundreds of institutional scholarships. Scholarships are not just for the very bright or very disadvantaged. You are all encouraged to enter your details on the VTAC site for scholarships regardless of whether you think you are eligible. Let the institutions will decide who is/isn’t eligible. You will find out if a scholarship is offered on Dec 21. You can also apply for access and equity scholarships directly through the institution. Visit institution websites for more information. Commonwealth Scholarships are now automated through Centrelink and are means tested. http://www.vtac.edu.au/publications.html
Upcoming Careers Assemblies
Aug 13: VTAC Information; Aug 27: Swinburne TAFE/Uni; Sep 10: RMIT TAFE/Uni; Oct 15: Centrelink
Additional Information about VTAC
The ‘ABC of Scaling’ publication is mailed out in December with your ENTER. It is not possible to know whether your subject will be scaled up or down until after the exams have been completed. Scaling changes each year too – so don’t rely on how subjects were scaled last year. Exceptions are Mathematics and Languages Other Than English (LOTE). ‘ABC of Offers’ is mailed out in January with the offer or regret to advise letters. There are approximately 58,000 Round 1 offers, 7,000 Round 2 offers, and no Round 3 offers next year. There are also supplementary offers (if you didn’t get a Round 1 or 2 offer) and irregular offers (if you apply directly to the institution – out of VTAC hands). There are new/cancelled courses all the time – Courselink on the VTAC wesbite has updated info. Also, the Australasian Conference of Tertiary Admissions Centres (ACTAC), of which the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) is a member, has agreed that all states and territories (except Queensland) will use the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR), during 2009 and 2010. This is a name change only. There is no change to the calculation and it will have no effect on students’ ranking or the selection process.
VTAC Key Dates
- Timely applications: Aug 3 – Sep 30 ($23 + $8 processing fee)
- Late applications: Sep 30 – Nov 13 ($82 + $8 processing fee)
- Very late applications: Nov 13 – Dec 11 ($106 + $8 processing fee)
- SEAS applications: Aug 3 – Oct 9
- Scholarship applications: Aug 3 - Oct 30
- Change of preference: Aug 3 – Oct 30; Nov 30 – Dec 21
- ENTERs released: Dec 14
- Offers: Jan 18 (round 1); Feb 8 (round 2)
Attention Art and Design Students
This is the time of year when the search for a tertiary course of study gets serious. Those students who favour a course of study in one of the creative disciplines find that there are so many options and it can be very confusing. The Art & Design Education Resource Guide can save a lot of time as it contains all of the information they need in their quest for what to study, and where to study. There are also over 500 pictures of graduate work that will whet their appetites and help them decide which way to go. The cover price is $24.50 plus $10 postage and packing per single copy for delivery anywhere in Australia. There is also a copy in the Careers Centre.
Attention Music Students:
Free accredited music industry career workshops
Freeza Central, in partnerships with SYN, will deliver a free, accredited music-industry-career-workshop focusing on radio on Wednesday August 12. There’ll be representatives from Nova, ABC, Triple R, PBS and SYN. Workshop presenters will cover performance, technical production, event management, music business, radio broadcasting and marketing/publicity. Then on Saturday August 22, Freeza Central and The Push will deliver a free accredited music industry career workshop. Workshop presenters include band members, festival bookers, publicists and sound engineers, and will cover song-writing, performance, sound engineering, recording, technical production, event and tour management, music business, band management, media, communications, marketing and publicity. For more information please visit http://www.freezacentral.vic.gov.au
Spend a day at CCAT
If you are interested in audio engineering, music performance, graphic animation, film production, dance and drama then you might want to check out the independent tertiary college CCAT. They’re located in Hawthorn and have invited all interested students to 1-1½ hour workshops. If you are interested please see Pheona in Careers.
Girlfriend Program
KYM are offering a 10-week program run on Fridays in Term 4 (Oct 9 – Dec 11) for any female students interested in maintaining positive interpersonal relationships and exploring issues such as self-esteem, body image, eating disorders, anger management, stress, etc. Preference will be given to students who live within the City of Knox. Cost is only $50. See Pheona in the Careers Centre for more information.
Elevate Dance Program
KYM are offering a program in Bayswater for students interested in music, dance and performance. Starting on August 18 you can learn a variety of dance styles including jazz, contemporary and hip-hop. Classes will be on Tuesdays between 9am – 2.30pm from August 18 – December 8. You’ll get to perform your routines at the end-of-year complete with theatrical hair, make-up and nails courtesy of the KYM hairdressing students. Cost is $83 or $55 concession. See Pheona in the Careers Centre for more information.
Get Direction Program
KYM are offering a program for students thinking of leaving school or experiencing difficulty. The program includes the nationally recognised Certificate I in Vocational Preparation and other aspects such as goal setting, motivation, self-esteem building, conflict/anger management, decision making, information on apprenticeships/traineeships, etc. The program runs 4-days a week between August 24 – September 17 in Bayswater. Cost is $112 including excursions or $50 concession. See Pheona in the Careers Centre for more information.
Certificate II in Hairdressing Program
KYM are offering a nationally recognised entry-level course for the Hairdressing Industry. The program provides you with the practical skills and background knowledge necessary to assist a hairdresser in a commercial salon. The Certificate II is the preferred qualification for salon managers looking to recruit new apprentices. This program will teach you how to prepare clients for service and how to work as a part of a busy salon team. The course includes a combination of theory and practical work in a custom made training facility in Bayswater. The course runs on Fridays (9am – 3pm) from August 7 – December 18 during school terms. Cost is $350 or $105.00 Concession plus $100 for materials. See Pheona in the Careers Centre for more information.
ReTale Program
CAE are offering an accredited qualification in Certificate II in Retail for students seeking the transition from secondary school to employment in the hospitality and retail industries. The major focus of the 15-week course is on industry skills, hands-on learning experiences, and mentoring from Victoria Police. As well as having school fees and materials paid for, those participating in the program have the chance to develop self-esteem and life skills. After completing the program you can choose to enter the workforce or return to secondary education. The course starts on August 3 and runs from 10am – 3pm, Monday to Friday, over 15 weeks. See Pheona in the Careers Centre for more information.
Employment during the Spring Racing Carnival
If you’re looking for a little extra cash in August, September and October then you might want to consider applying for work during the Spring Racing Carnival. The Melbourne Racing Club is searching for enthusiastic, highly motivated and customer-focused individuals for the following positions; a la carte waiters, food & beverage attendants, tap bar attendants, and event attendants. Applications close August 17 so register interest early via http://www.melbourneracingclub.net.au
Reminder: Gap year and student exchange activities
If you are interested in participating in a gap year activity or want to explore the possibility of student exchange then see Pheona in the Careers Centre for more information.
Defence Technical Scholarships
The DTS is designed to raise awareness of trade opportunities in the ADF and provide financial support to students interested in pursuing an ADF general entry technical trade career to complete their senior education. The scholarship is offered to both Year 11 and Year 12 students who are doing a math subject. For more information, see Pheona in Careers.
TAFE/University Key Dates and Open Days
Open Days are one of the best ways to check out what the TAFE or University you are interested in attending has to offer. It is important that you visit institutions where you may wish to study. Some courses like art, design, music, drama and related courses can involve an audition, interview and/or folio presentation as part of the selection process, so attendance at Open Days is vital. During an interview you may be asked what you learned about the course at Open Day – a difficult question to answer if you didn’t attend.
Many Open Day dates have already been announced – put them in your diary and treat them as a priority.
Australian Catholic University
Australian College of Applied Psychology
Australian Institute of Public Safety
Australian College of Sports Therapy
Australian International Hotel School (Canberra)
Australian Maritime College
Bendigo Regional Institute of TAFE
Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School
Box Hill Institute
Chisholm Institute
Deakin University
- http://www.deakin.edu.au/
- OPEN DAY: August 9 (Geelong Waterfront and Waurn Ponds); August 16 (Warrnambool); August 23 (Burwood) OPEN DAY
- Discover Deakin
- September 22 (all campuses)
- September 28 (all campuses)
Elly Lukas Beauty Therapy College
Endeavour College of Natural Health
Footscray City Films
Gordon Institute of TAFE
Grenadi School of Design
Holmesglen TAFE
International College of Hotel Management
International Design School
JMC Academy
La Trobe University
Monash College
Monash University
- http://www.monash.edu.au/
- OPEN DAY: August 1 (Berwick, Gippsland, Parkville, Peninsula); August 2 (Caulfield, Clayton)
- Dean’s Lecture Series (Law)
- August 4: Family Violence
- September 1: Why We Are Suckers for an Unfair Deal
- Parent Information Evening
- ‘Experience Monash’
- September 29: Peninsula
- September 30: Berwick
NMIT
Oceania Polytechnic
Ozford
Photographic Image College
Photographic Studies College
Pivot Point International Academy
Qantm College
RMIT University/TAFE
- http://www.rmit.edu.au
- OPEN DAY: August 9 (City, Bundoora, Brunswick); August 19 (Hamilton)
- August 20: Science careers seminar (Storey Hall)
- August 20: Science and Technology careers breakfast
- August 22: Advertising careers day
- September 5: Public Relations careers day
SAE Institute
South West Institute of TAFE
Southern School of Natural Therapies
Sunraysia TAFE
Swinburne University of Technology
- http://www.swinburne.edu.au
- OPEN DAY: August 16 (Hawthorn, Lilydale, Prahran)
- September 2: Parents information evening (Hawthorn)
- September 16: Parents information evening (Lilydale)
- September 23-25: Siemens Science Experience (Hawthorn)
- September 26: Swinburne walk and talk (Hawthorn, Lilydale, Prahran)
- December 16: Change of preference expo (Hawthorn, Lilydale, Prahran)
University of Ballarat
University of Melbourne
University of Tasmania
Victoria University/TAFE
William Angliss Institute
Wodonga Institute of TAFE
Subject workshops
Many exam preparation courses are run by for-profit companies. Information relating to many of these organises is available on the standee outside of the library. Please choose carefully and ask your teacher for advice before signing up.
Fashion
Health and Human Development
- Revision lecture on October 1 @ Deakin University (Warrnambool).
IT Applications
- Exams Preparation Day on October 20 (5.30pm-7pm) @ Swinburne University.
- Year 11 High Achievers day on December 4 (10am-3pm) @ Swinburne University.
Software Development
- Exams Preparation Day on October 22 (5.30pm-7pm) @ Swinburne University.
Theatre Studies
- Unit 4: The monologue workshop on August 4 - 7 (10am-3pm) @ Malthouse Theatre. See above website.
Other events for the diary
What: Australian Engineering Week
When: August 3-9
Where: various
How much: tbc
Other: This is a public awareness and education campaign that aims to promote engineering as an exciting career choice.
Web: http://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/aew
What: Careers in Complementary Medicine
When: August 4
Where: Southern School of Natural Therapies (SSNT), Fitzroy
How much: free
Other: For students who are interested in Naturopathy; Myotherapy; Chinese Medicine and Remedial Massage as a career path this is a great opportunity to meet teachers, professionals and students who are currently working an studying in these fields at the Southern School of Natural Therapies (SSNT).
Web: More info on p. 28 of the IMVC guide. RSVP to Pheona by June 16.
What: Fight Boring! Buy your way into Retail at Savers.
When: August 12
Where: Savers, Brunswick
How much: free
Other: Are you interested in a retail career? Have a flair for fashion and recycled clothing? Interested in working for the non-profit sector?
Web: IMVC
What: Tiling and Stonemasonry Trial-a-Trade
When: August 14
Where: Holmesglen TAFE (9am – 3pm)
How much: free
Other: Are you interested in getting your hands dirty? Want to try your hand at a fantastic trade? Here is chance to do both.
Web: RSVP to Pheona by July 17.
What: Music information evening
When: August 18 (7.30pm) (previously Tues 11 Aug)
Where: Monash Uni, Building 68, Performing Arts Centre, Clayton campus
How much: free
Other: The School of Music – Conservatorium, will hold an information evening for prospective students. Topics covered will include the range of degrees in which students can study music, entry criteria, selection procedures and audition requirements. Lecturers from all specialist areas will be in attendance to answer questions. RSVP to music@arts.monash.edu.au
What: Engineering & Science Careers Expo
When: August 20
Where: Victorian Space Science Education Centre (VSSEC)
How much: free
Other: This expo offers students an opportunity to meet representatives from all Victorian universities and industry groups from a range of science and engineering disciplines in the one location. The program for the afternoon includes hands-on activities and demonstrations, give-aways, speakers that include young professionals sharing their experiences in education and the work place.
Web: More info on p. 30 of the IMVC guide. RSVP to Pheona by July 23.
What: Sustainability and the Environment (part of National Science Week)
When: August 20 (7am – 9am)
Where: RMIT University, Storey Hall, 336 Swanston St, Melbourne
How much: free
Other: Discuss science, sustainability and careers – all before breakfast. Two students who are interested in studying science and engineering may be chosen to attend an interactive careers breakfast hosted by ABC’s Bernie Hobbs (New Inventors, ABC Science). Guest speakers include Darren Pace (Shell Australia), Clare Grandison, and industry professionals.
Web: RSVP by June 30. http://www.rmit.edu.au/scienceweek/careers-breakfast
What: Medical Radiations Career Open Day
When: Sunday 23rd August 12-3pm3
Where: Peter MaCallum Cancer Centre St Andrews Place, East Melbourne
How much: free
What: A Taste of William Angliss
When: August 27-28 (9.30am – 3.30pm)
Where: William Angliss Institute,
How much: $75
Other: Pathways information, behind the scenes tour of the institute, introduction to ‘the art of coffee making’, two-course meal, practical hands on food demonstration in ‘the art of chocolate making’, etc.
Web: RSVP to Jane Searle on 9606 2389.
What: Bricklaying and Plastering Trial-a-Trade
When: August 28
Where: Holmesglen TAFE (9am – 3pm)
How much: free
Other: Are you interested in getting your hands dirty? Want to try your hand at a fantastic trade? Here is chance to do both.
Web: RSVP to Pheona by July 31.
What: A Focus on Orthoptics at The Eye & Ear Hospital
When: August 28; September 4
Where: Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne
How much: free
Other: Orthoptics work in special eye clinics and monitor eye disease using highly specialised skills and equipment, and assist in providing treatment and rehabilitation of patents with vision impairment and eye diseases like cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
Web: More info on p. 29 of the IMVC guide. RSVP to Pheona by July 17.
What: Aviation industry tour
When: September 8
Where: Swinburne University
How much: Free
Other: Swinburne Aviation is hosting behind-the-scenes tours to highlight the many and varied opportunities available to students interested in the aviation industry. The tour includes a visit to Melbourne Airport, Virgin Blue Flight Crew Base, Qantas Simulator Centre and stopover at Swinburne’s flying training school, Oxford Aviation Academy. The sessions are open to one careers adviser with up to two students. We will be travelling with others in a chartered bus. Lunch is provided (but BYO water and mid-morning snack).
Web: http://www.swinburne.edu.au/aviation
What: Human Physiology: Living in Space
When: September 11
Where: Victorian Space Science Education Centre (VSSEC)
How much: free
Other: This short day program offers students a hands on introduction to the science of human physiology. Students will measure their own physical parameters, including height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, respiration rate etc and then undertake further investigation of cardio-vascular fitness, metabolic rate, and blood and urine analysis.
Web: More info on p. 20 of the IMVC guide. RSVP to Pheona by August 14.
What: Bakery Trial-a-Trade
When: September 11
Where: location confirmed upon registration
How much: free
Other: Interested in a trade but not sure which one? This program gives you an opportunity to try various trades for a day.
Web: IMVC RSVP to Pheona by August 14.
What: Auto Electrics Trial-a-Trade
When: September 15
Where: location confirmed upon registration
How much: free
Other: Interested in a trade but not sure which one? This program gives you an opportunity to try various trades for a day.
Web: IMVC RSVP to Pheona by August 14.
What: IELLEN Youth Pathways Forum
When: September 15
Where: tbc
How much: tbc
Other: tbc
Web: tbc
What: Printing Trial-a-Trade
When: September 16
Where: location confirmed upon registration
How much: free
Other: Interested in a trade but not sure which one? This program gives you an opportunity to try various trades for a day.
Web: IMVC RSVP to Pheona by August 14.
What: Horticulture / Landscaping Trial-a-Trade
When: September 17
Where: location confirmed upon registration
How much: free
Other: Interested in a trade but not sure which one? This program gives you an opportunity to try various trades for a day.
Web: IMVC RSVP to Pheona by August 14.
What: Trial-a-Trade 4-day program
When: September 15-18
Where: location confirmed upon registration
How much: free
Other: Interested in a trade but not sure which one? This program gives you an opportunity to try various trades. This program runs for 4 days and students are expected to attend every day. September 15 – Hospitality (Front of House); September 16 – Textiles; September 17 – Beauty Therapy; September 18 – Floristry.
Web: IMVC RSVP to Pheona by August 14.
What: Marine Science Careers Day
When: September 17; November 30 (9.30am – 3pm)
Where: Melbourne Aquarium
How much: $35
Other: For secondary students to discover a range of careers in the field of marine science. You also have the opportunity to hear about everyday experiences from professionals in the field. Speakers are selected from various fields including animal husbandry, wildlife conservation, veterinary sciences and research in marine science.
Web: Bookings are essential – http://www.melbourneacquarium.com.au/education.aspx
What: Aquarist for a Day
When: One day between September 21 – October 2 (8.30am – 3.30pm)
Where: Melbourne Aquarium
How much: $70
Other: For secondary students interested in a career in marine science. Providing unique opportunities to experience life as an aquarist at Melbourne Aquarium, this day-long program includes basic training in aquatic animal husbandry, food preparation and animal feeding. You can also discuss further study and career path options with qualified marine scientists and animal husbandry experts.
Web: Bookings are essential – http://www.melbourneacquarium.com.au/education.aspx
What: Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine information session
When: September 25 (12.30pm-4pm)
Where: VIFM Lecture Theatre, Coronial Services Centre, 57-63 Kavanagh St, Southbank
How much: free
Other: Insights into various career options in forensic sciences. Registration essential. More info on p. 21 of IMVC guide.
Web: http://www.vifm.org
What: Mechatroncis Day
When: September 25
Where: RMIT (Bundoora)
How much: free (lunch provided)
Other: Experience cutting edge mechatronics technology. You’ll experience temperature control experiments, robotino wireless programs, Mitsubishi Robot pick and place, and SAGE Industry demonstration of Targeted Technology Introduction Modules.
Web: http://www.rmit.edu.au/aero-mech
What: Careers in Medical Research
When: October
Where: Baker IDI and the Nucleus Network
How much: free
Other: Baker IDI: Each group will participate in 2 x 1 hour and 15 minute workshops where they listen to the Laboratory Head discuss the lab’s research and aims and then participate in a mini experiment. The Nucleus Network: Student will be given a complementary session about clinical research with an emphasis on the conduct of clinical trials.
Web: More info on p. 31 of the IMVC guide. RSVP to Pheona by September 4.
What: Careers in Event Management and Conference
When: October 14
Where: Box Hill TAFE, Elgar Campus and Federation Square
How much: free
Other: Listen to leading event management industry professionals, be inspired b the innovative ideas used to create unique events, learn about job opportunities in the events industry and talk to graduates now working in the field, and update your industry knowledge by viewing a range of venues on display.
Web: More info on p. 10 of the IMVC guide. RSVP to Pheona by September 2.
What: Human Physiology: Living in Space
When: October 16
Where: Victorian Space Science Education Centre (VSSEC)
How much: free
Other: This short day program offers students a hands on introduction to the science of human physiology. Students will measure their own physical parameters, including height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, respiration rate etc and then undertake further investigation of cardio-vascular fitness, metabolic rate, and blood and urine analysis.
Web: More info on p. 20 of the IMVC guide. RSVP to Pheona by September 4.
What: Beauty Therapy Trial-A-Trade
When: October 16 & 30
Where: Headmasters
How much: free
Other: For those interested in perusing a career in the beauty industry.
Web: IMVC RSVP to Pheona by September 4 & 15.
What: Furnishing Trades
When: November (tbc)
Where: Holmesglen TAFE
How much: free
Other: The three-day Furnishing Trial-A-Trade program is conducted one day per week over three weeks. Student workshops will cover cabinet making, furniture polishing and upholstery.
Web: IMVC RSVP to Pheona by October 2.
What: Melbourne Youth Music Summer School 2010
When: January 13-15 (Prelude); January 18-23 (Main Program)
Where: Melbourne Town Hall
How much: varies
Other: Includes music theatre groups, orchestras, vocal workshops, stage bands, string groups, symphonic bands, theory, VCE performance preparation, African drumming, improvisation, composition, master-classes and more.
Web: http://www.mym.org.au.
What: The Age VCE and Careers Expo 2010
When: April 23-25
Where: Caulfield Racecourse
How much: $10
Other: Australia’s biggest education and careers event – the only Expo featuring all Australia’s major tertiary institutions. The expo features over 150 exhibitors, seminars on VCE subjects, tertiary courses, career and study advice.
Web: http://www.vceandcareers.com.au
