The essential role careers and transitions advisers play in shaping students' future is being recognised and celebrated this National Careers Week.
Across NSW, these dedicated professionals help students navigate life beyond school – connecting them with industries, trainers and employment opportunities while supporting them to make informed decisions about their future pathways.
This year's National Careers Week, led by the Career Industry Council of Australia, carries the theme Future Frontiers: Navigating New Career Pathways. The theme highlights the exciting opportunities available to students as they prepare for their future world of work.
Beyond providing guidance at school, careers advisers also open doors to hands-on experiences such as try-a-trade days and support students in balancing school with apprenticeships and traineeships.
One such adviser is Bellingen High School's Frieda Gorman, whose leadership in career education is making a significant impact in her regional community.
In recognition of her outstanding work, Frieda was awarded the Premier's Vocational Education in Schools Scholarship which saw her travel to Scotland for a study tour of the country's VET delivery.
Since returning, she has focused on strengthening local partnerships to align school career pathways with community needs and local labour market demand.
Among her many initiatives, Frieda has introduced a mandatory two-week work experience program for Year 10 students and extended early career education into local primary schools.
Over past year alone, careers and transitions advisers like Frieda have supported thousands of young people, including 4,000 public school students undertaking a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship.
Thanks to their expertise and commitment, NSW public schools are equipping students with the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to explore emerging pathways and thrive in the future workforce.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said:
"Careers and transition advisers nurture young people's career curiosity and equip them to be highly skilled members who contribute to the wellbeing of our communities.
"They take career learning beyond the four walls of the classroom and help young people navigate through the plethora of career and training pathways.
"This National Careers Week, we thank you for going above and beyond to spark inspiration and turn aspirations into fulfilling careers for our students."
Frieda Gorman, Careers Adviser at Bellingen High School said:
"Working in career education is in an incredibly rewarding vocation to initiate that spark of passion in a young person and know that they will thrive with their chosen pathway after school.
"Work experience provides students with the opportunity to explore careers and industries, helping them discover what they enjoy, as well as what they don't.
"I aspire to have my students experience the same fulfilment that I have in my role."
