Finish Year 12
Hang in there. School and further study are not for everyone but research
tells us that the more education and training you have, the more
likely you are to be employed and to get the job you want. For
those who are thinking of leaving school, here is
some ‘fine print’.
From 2006 it has become law that you must stay at school until you are 16 or have completed Year 10, whichever comes first. There's also a law that requires students to participate in education for another 2 years until they have gained a Queensland Certificate of Education, or a Certificate III vocational qualification, or have turned 17. Students who have turned 16 or completed Year 10 and have full-time work may be exempted.
Where are the jobs and where is the money?
Research shows that higher education does improve the chances of employment
and achieving higher salaries overall. However, there is no certainty
that individual graduates will earn more than those people who
do not attend university or that employment is guaranteed.
All universities publish yearly reports on “Graduate Destinations”.
These give some idea of where graduates are finding employment
and the range of their starting salaries.
For information about jobs, starting salaries and destination surveys of
graduates, along with skill shortages and occupations that have
the strongest national growth, visit the following:
What are my work options?
Paid employment can be full-time, part-time, casual, contract or portfolio
(combining all the other options). If you are planning to leave
school and commence paid work, contact a Jobs Pathway provider
to help you find a job that matches your skills. Contact Centrelink
employment services 13 28 50 or visit www.centrelink.gov.au for
Job Network Access, Australian Job Search and other facilities
to help you.
Your school careers adviser can also provide practical help and support.
Some employers approach schools directly – if the careers adviser
is familiar with your goals and interests they can pass on these
contacts.
Be proactive and creative. While many jobs are advertised online, some
jobs are never advertised. Directly approach your local small,
medium and large businesses. Large organisations often advertise
jobs on their own website, so if you have an employer in mind,
look them up online. They may have valuable information on how
they recruit, what they’re looking for and when jobs are likely to
come up.
Make a list of companies you would like to work for and give them a call.
Use your support network, including your parents, teachers, friends
and relatives. Talk to as many people as you can about your job
search.
Here are some websites that provide online job advertisements, search functions
and information for job seekers. Many also provide sample resumes
and tips for interview and telephone skills.
Young entrepreneurs
Some young people create their own careers. If you have a great idea and
loads of energy, drive and passion, there’s no reason why you can’t
be your own boss. Starting up your own business requires unique
skills, attitudes and resources.
It is a great idea to get some training and industry experience in a successful
small business first. Assistance, incentive schemes and business
awards are available and often target young people.
For inspiration
check out these websites:
Exit Lines
Take advantage of Exit Lines - a great glossy newsletter issued
regularly by the QSA to Year 12 students via your school. The publication
covers information about getting ready to leave school and how
to prepare for work and study.
You can also see issues online at
the QSA website www.qsa.qld.edu.au
What about taking a break from study?
Taking a gap year after finishing school may be a great opportunity to
expand your life experiences, explore your options or build financial
reserves before taking up further study. You could work, travel
or volunteer – or all three.
Teach English in Japan, volunteer in a third world community, work
in an American summer camp or head to London. You will meet new
people and find out more about yourself. You may even discover
your true passion or a career you would never have
considered otherwise.
Volunteer Work
Volunteers make an extraordinary contribution to Australian society. Get
involved in a charity, your local surf life saving club or neighbourhood
centre. Volunteering also looks great on your resume as employers
value initiative, teamwork, problem solving and communication skills.
Check out your opportunities at the following websites:
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