Careers News (Thursday 25 August)

Year 10 Boarder, Jasmine Eramiha with the Hon. Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia at the graduation of the Youth Governor’s Leadership Graduation Ceremony.

To our Sacred Heart Community


Youth Governor’s Leadership Program with UniSA

Year 10 boarding student, Jasmine Eramiha recently graduated from the six month Youth Governor’s Leadership program through UniSA. Jasmine sat down with Prue Wilkosz, Pathways Coordinator at Sacred Heart College, to talk about the program and answer a few questions.

How did you get into this program?
I was offered this opportunity through the Sacred Heart Boarding House. The 2022 Business Women of South Australia wanted to sponsor a Year 10 Sacred Heart College Boarding student and the opportunity was then offered to me. I am also the Year 10 Girls Boarding House Leader.

What sort of time commitment was required from you each week?
The program alternated between on-campus attendance combined with Zoom meetings. There were in-person sessions at UniSA every fortnight and a Zoom meeting on the alternate weeks. Meetings went for between 3 and 5 hours. At the time, I had a lot of additional music and sporting commitments so I had to make time to work around these commitments as well. 

What were the things that you learnt from the program?
I learnt to be respectful and inclusive of others. We went on a camp at the start of the year where we spoke very openly about our lives. From that I felt a very great strong appreciation for my life and the opportunities presented to me, which made me realise just how lucky I am. I learnt that with hard work you develop patience, which in my case, applied to building relationships, completing the program and still keeping up with my other commitments. I learnt responsibility; I learnt that the younger generation is moving forward; they will lead other people and make a difference to our world and I am part of that generation. The wonderful people that spoke to us gave me a much greater understanding of what my future role might be and the belief that I can contribute to positive change.

What was difficult or challenging about completing the course?
Time management was a big one for me and at times I struggled with that. I put my head down and became really disciplined. I also reached out to people at school for extra help and support, but gradually realised that I could do it on my own. Managing my social life, family and friends was also hard at times, but again, I managed.

What other things are you involved in at school?
I have played in the Year 10 A1 Netball team and I am a member of the Sacred Heart Girls AFL team. I love music and completed a semester of General Music and Music Industry Skills, which I will continue in Year 12. I am also in the Choir Ensemble and involved in a duo with Piper Ackland. As mentioned previously, I am the Year 10 Girls Boarding House Leader. As a boarder I try to get back to Ceduna (my hometown) during boarding exeats and catch up with my family and friends from there.

What do you hope to do in the future?
I hope to become a lawyer or a politician and carry on the fight for social justice, equality and human rights.

Any advice that you have for students struggling with time commitments?
At the start of every study session I make a list of all the things that I need to complete. I find that when you put things down on paper and you tick them off one by one, you feel a sense of relief, less stressed, and more able to manage things. I find that once things are completed you have time to do other things that you really enjoy, which for me is music, training, playing sport or being with friends. If you make the most of the time you have it gives you more time for the things that you really enjoy.


Through speaking to Jasmine, Prue also found out what is happening for her brother Dylan, who graduated from Sacred Heart in 2021. Dylan is now working on his brand of streetwear, Coconut Clothing, which he promotes through social media and his website www.coconutclothing.com.au. He is also working at Freeman’s Timber Yard.

Dylan’s business came about after he was doing some designs in Web Design based around his nickname. People liked the design and he was then encouraged to set up a business for himself. He started off making t-shirts and found that his Research Project helped with the process of establishing his business. The most important part was his parents’ financial backing and confidence in his ability to make this happen. Dylan has learnt a lot about the design and production process, and sourcing reliable suppliers and manufacturers. He is a great example of a young entrepreneur, who through hard work, a willingness to take calculated risks and follow an opportunity, has achieved success. His range has expanded to hoodies, hats, vests, and he is working on pants and crew necks. You can follow Dylan’s business on Instagram at @coconutclothing


University Information

SATAC Timeline
Year 12 students are in the process of organising their applications for tertiary study. University and TAFE applications are made through www.satac.edu.au. Students can obtain help with the process from the Careers Office. The deadline for Year 12 University applications is 30 September. Once this deadline is met students can make changes to their preferences well after this date. All key dates and information about the process can be found in the green SATAC guide which was given to all students earlier this term or via www.satac.edu.au.

Flinders UniTEST
Students who are applying for any courses (apart from Medicine) at Flinders University should consider applying to sit for the uniTEST.

The Flinders uniTEST will be done at school on Monday 12 September, 12.30pm-3.00pm. It is a free multiple choice question test where information needed for answers will be provided in the question.

UniTEST is aimed at enhancing your chances of getting into Flinders. They will select students based on Year 12 results (60% weighting toward the ATAR selection rank) and uniTEST results (40%). Flinders will also consider applicants based on their uniTEST results (100%) as a standalone entry score (subject to SACE completion and any course pre-requisites or specific admissions requirements). If you take the test and don’t do so well, don’t worry. They will only consider your highest selection rank. Please make sure that you register in the Careers Office.

This year Flinders University have introduced a special sub quota for students who have lived in an area classified as rural or remote for a period of time. More details can be found in the brochure here.

The eligible degrees are:
Bachelor of Clinical Sciences/Doctor of Medicine
Bachelor of Exercise Science
Bachelor of Exercise Science/Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Bachelor of Health Sciences
Bachelor of Health Sciences (Digital Health)
Bachelor of Health Sciences (Physiology and Neuroscience)
Bachelor of Health Sciences (Psychology)
Bachelor of Health Sciences (Therapy Studies)
Bachelor of Health Sciences (Vision Science)/Master of Optometry
Bachelor of Health Sciences/Master of Occupational Therapy
Bachelor of Health Sciences/Master of Physiotherapy
Bachelor of Human Nutrition
Bachelor of Human Nutrition/Bachelor of Exercise Science
Bachelor of Medical Science
Bachelor of Midwifery (Pre-registration)
Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-registration)
Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-registration) (Riverland)
Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics
Bachelor of Paramedic Science
Bachelor of Public Health
Bachelor of Speech Pathology


Key Dates

  • Work Experience for 2022

    BEFORE CONSIDERING WORK EXPERIENCE PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING:

    It is a legal requirement that prior to commencing Work Experience students are inducted in the following areas: Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA), Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017 (SA), Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (SA), Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) and Child Safety (Prohibited Persons) Act 2016 (SA). Adequate time (approximately 5 hours) should be allocated to cover these topics effectively and students need to demonstrate their understanding. This induction is done by the school and is consistent with our Duty of Care to ensure that no student is placed where they may not be safe physically or psychologically.

    In addition to this, the Work Experience form must be signed by the student, work placement provider, parent/caregiver (all arranged by the student) and finally the Principal or delegate (arranged by the school). The original Work Experience Agreement form then becomes a legal contract which sets the school insurance cover in place and must be retained by the school.

    The school must also provide a contact person who is responsible for each student for the duration of their placement.

    Work Experience is a very valuable opportunity for most students, however, it does take time to ensure that the above expectations are met. We are happy to accommodate students in the times allocated.  Please do not cause yourself or the College embarrassment by making other arrangements and then asking for exceptions to be made.

    Students who wish to do Work Experience during 2022 are advised that the dates are:

    Work Experience Weeks Paperwork Deadline
    10 – 14 October 2 September
    21 – 25 November (Optional Work Experience Year 12’s only) 21 October
    5 – 9 December 4 November

    Unpaid work trials should only occur if it’s necessary to evaluate a worker’s suitability for a job. They should only consist of the worker demonstrating their skills relevant to the job’s required tasks or observation of others performing the work.

    Please note this is general Work Experience only. Students undertaking a VET program will need to organise their VET work placement with the VET Office.

  • UniSA The Jeff Kasparian Regional Relocation Grant

    Value: $5,000
    Open/Closing Dates: 8 August 2022 – 31 January 2023

    The Jeff Kasparian Regional Relocation Grant assists high school graduates, residing in the south-east of South Australia, to relocate to Adelaide to study at UniSA.

    Find out more here.

  • AVCAT Scholarships

    Value: Up to $6,000 per year
    Open/Closing Dates: 18 August – 31 October 2022

    AVCAT is a national charity providing tertiary education scholarships and bursaries to children and grandchildren of ex-serving veterans. They assist scholars each year to reach their potential through achieving a range of academic and personal goals.

    Find out more here.

  • University of Melbourne – Applying to UniMelb NT and SA students

    Thursday 15 September 2022, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
    Online

    Applying to university is different across Australia and can be a confusing process, especially if you are considering an institution outside of your home state. Uni of Melbourne Future Students team is here to help, so you can apply for your University of Melbourne undergraduate degree for 2023 with confidence.

    This is your chance to hear directly from a VTAC representative and ask any questions to the team.

    Year 12 students and their families are invited to attend this webinar to find out all the information you’ll need to know regarding:

    • Researching courses and understanding University of Melbourne entry requirements for NT/SA secondary school 
    • Applying for undergraduate courses and the role of the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) for applications and offers
    • What are Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), their benefits, and how to apply for the University’s own, Access Melbourne.

    Find out more here.

  • Agricultural, Animal and VET Sciences Careers Expo

    Tuesday 20 September 2022, 2.00 – 7.00 pm
    Urrbrae Agricultural High School

    Find out about the many exciting careers and employment opportunities that exist in agriculture, horticulture, animal and vet sciences and related industries.

    Find out more here.

  • ICHM Discovery Day

    Wednesday 5 October 2022, 9.30 am – 3.30 pm
    International College of Hotel Management

    An ICHM Discovery Day could be for you! ICHM Discovery Days aim to get you thinking differently about your post high school studies and career development, covering a range of exciting topics including international business and tourism, luxury hotel design and hospitality opportunities.

    So join in for a day of fun and discovery while finding out about different areas of learning, that could help you develop and explore a future in hospitality and business management.

    Find out more here.


Training & Work

  • Aluco

    Aluco manufacture and install commercial windows and doors.  They have been in the building industry since 1994 and employ over 50 people.

    Aluco are currently looking for 2 – 3 apprentices to join their team.   Visit www.aluco.com.au for further information about the company.

    Please visit the Careers Office for further details.

  • Australian Hiring Company

    Australian Hiring Company have casual work available including flexible work in school holidays and some weekend work. They set up marquees, furniture and lighting for schools, the SA Museum, the Art Gallery, Government House, corporates and weddings. 

    Send a brief CV to Andrew via email at andrew@australian-hiring.com.au or call for more information on 0413 339 517.

  • Nicholls Painting

    Nicholls Painting is a small painting business dealing with high end custom homes, owned and operated by Old Scholar, James Nicholls. James is looking at taking on an apprentice late this year or early next year.

    For more details please contact James Nicholls 0404 530 422.


Spotlight on Careers

  • How to become a Camera Operator

    Camera Operators set up and operate cameras and other recording equipment to record material for film, television, news, live events, music videos, advertising, and more. They work in a variety of environments, from indoor studios and locations, to almost any outdoor location imaginable.

    If you have a passion for screen and the arts and want to know all about what goes on behind the scenes, becoming a Camera Operator could be ideal.

    About you:

    • Excellent communicator
    • Good time management skills
    • Great team worker
    • Can work on your feet
    • Flexible and resilient
    • Keen eye and steady hand
    • Able to take direction
    • Reliable and hardworking.

    The job:

    • Operating cameras, tripods, and microphones
    • Choosing appropriate equipment for a scene
    • Collaborating with producers and directors
    • Helping to set up scenes and equipment
    • Making adjustments during filming
    • Maintaining and looking after equipment
    • Packing down sets and equipment.

    Lifestyle Impact: Low

    • Part Time opportunities: High – around 41% of Camera Operators work part-time (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
    • Average hours for full-time workers: 45 hours a week, which is average (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
    • Camera Operators’ salary (average) $65,000* per year (source: seek.com.au). *Salaries vary depending on your skills and experience.
    • Future career growth: Moderate (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
    • You will be doing work in a variety of environments, both indoors and outdoors.
    • Shoots can often go on for many hours, and depending on scheduling and time constraints, you might need to work on weekends and holidays.

    Camera Operators are most in demand in these locations:
    This is a small occupation, with around 2,100 people working as Camera Operators in Australia in 2021 (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au). There is greatest demand for Camera Operators in New South Wales, with most jobs available in capital cities. Most Camera Operators work in the Information Media and Telecommunications industry.

    How to become a Camera Operator in Australia
    You don’t need any formal qualifications to work as a Camera Operator, but VET or university training can improve your prospects.

    Step 1 – Complete Year 10 with a strong focus on English and Maths.

    Step 2 – Consider enrolling in a relevant VET course, such as a Diploma of Screen and Media or Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services.

    Step 3 – Start working as a Camera Operator and get relevant industry experience.

    Step 4 – If you’d like, consider upskilling with a university-level qualification, such as a Bachelor of Arts or Screen and Media.

    Step 5 – Consider moving into roles in Directing or Production.

    Find out more here:
    https://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/

    https://www.meaa.org/

    Similar Careers to Camera Operator
    Photographer
    Stage Director
    Sound Engineer
    Costume Designer
    Director
    Producer
    Lighting Technician
    Prop Maker

    Find out more about alternative careers here.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What do Camera Operators do?
    Camera Operators are the people behind the equipment that capture both moving and still pictures for movies, television, live events, and more.

    Which industries employ Camera Operators?
    Camera Operators are mostly employed in the Information Media and Telecommunications industry.

    What options are there for career progression?
    While you will usually start doing basic camera work, you might then take on more complex technical duties as you gain more experience. You might even supervise and direct other camera operators, or become part of a larger directing and production team.

    Do I need to go to university to become a Camera Operator?
    No, there are no formal qualifications necessary to become a Camera Operator. However, having a VET qualification can boost your skills and employability.

    Where do Camera Operators work?
    Camera Operators work nearly everywhere – from stadiums filming sports games, in the studio for a news broadcast, out in nature for a documentary, or following an interviewee in their home or place of work.

    What are 3 things I can do right now to help me become a Camera Operator?

    If you’d like to find out if a career as a Camera Operator is right for you, here’s a few things you could do right now:

    1. Get your hands on a camera or phone and start working on your videography skills. Offer to take video for important events, like a sibling’s graduation or speeches at a wedding.
    2. See if you can find work experience in film or the arts. This will help you see if you might enjoy the work, and can help you start building important contacts for the future.
    3. Talk to a Camera Operator to see what a day in their life is like. If you don’t know anyone, see if you can watch videos or documentaries about a career as a Camera Operator.

Interesting Stuff

  • What Causes Perfectionism & Headspace Group Chat – the Perfectionism Predicament


    (Taken from Psychology Today)

    Perfectionism is driven primarily by internal pressures, such as the desire to avoid failure or harsh judgment. There is likely a social component as well, because perfectionistic tendencies have increased substantially among young people over the past 30 years, regardless of gender or culture. Greater academic and professional competition is thought to play a role, along with the pervasive presence of social media and the harmful social comparisons it elicits.

    What are the signs that someone is a perfectionist?
    Perfectionists set unrealistically high expectations for themselves and others. They are quick to find fault and overly critical of mistakes. They tend to procrastinate a project out of their fear of failure. They shrug off compliments and forget to celebrate their success. Instead, they look to specific people in their life for approval and validation.

    What are the different kinds of perfectionism?
    Perfection manifests itself in three domains. Self-oriented perfectionism is imposing an unrealistic desire to be perfect on oneself. Other-oriented perfectionism means imposing unrealistic standards of perfection on others. Socially-prescribed perfectionism involves perceiving unrealistic expectations of perfection from others.

    Headspace Group Chat – the Perfectionism Predicament
    Sunday 4 September,  7.00 pm
    Online

    Perfectionism can seem like a positive trait, as we often think it means doing well, and striving to do our best. However, for those living with the drive for perfection, it poses many challenges. It can impact our relationships with others, our mental health, and ironically, often result in us not doing as well as we could have.

    Join the eheadspace clinicians and the headspace youth National Reference Group to learn more about what perfectionism might look like, its links to mental ill-health, and ideas about what to do if you think you might be experiencing perfectionism.

    Find out more here.

  • Reference vs Referee

    A referee refers to an actual person – someone you’ll put down on your resume who can vouch for your skills and effectiveness.

    A reference is a written document or statement from a person you’ve worked for. It usually includes information about the kind of work you undertook, and your skills and abilities.

    So someone may be willing to write up a reference for you, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you also need to include them as a referee on your resume.

    The purpose of references and referees is so employers can cross-check any information you’ve put on your resume to ensure you’re not making anything up.

    The benefit of references is that once you have one, you can use it over and over again without needing to worry about it changing. Conversely, the benefit of referees is that they can potentially provide more relevant and up-to-date information.

    Who can be a referee?
    Your referees need to be people who know about your work experience and skills, and are willing to vouch for you in a positive way.

    Keep in mind you should never put your parents or friends down as references – employers will usually consider them as biased and unreliable. The best referees are people you know in a professional capacity, such as your employer. If you’ve never had a job before, you can include people like teachers, mentors or coaches instead.

    If you’re going to add someone as a referee to your resume, make sure you let them know in advance. Not only is it the polite thing to do, it also means they can be prepared in case a potential employer calls them for information.

    Ensure your referee details are always kept up to date – if an employer can’t get in touch with your referees, this might affect your application.

    Who can I get a reference from?
    If you’d like to add some references to your resume, they don’t just need to come from people you’ve been employed by.

    If you’re undertaking work experience, it’s a good idea to ask if you can get a reference at the end of your placement or you can use any positive written feedback via a report. Or if you do any sort of volunteer work, this is great to get a reference for too.

    If you have no work experience (either paid or unpaid), you can also ask for what’s known as a ‘character reference’. Obviously this won’t include any details of your work, but can tell a potential employer more about the type of person you are.

    References are most credible if they’re written or typed on a company letterhead, and also signed by the person who wrote the reference. Keep in mind that employers might contact the business or person you’ve received a reference from to make sure it’s legit.

  • HELP loans explained

    For most school leavers, it’s unlikely you’ll have access to large sums of money, even if you have been working and saving hard. Your parents or carers might not be able to assist you either.

    But don’t be discouraged – there are options to help you out financially.

    If you do choose to go on to study at uni, college or TAFE, and you’re wondering how you’ll be able to cover the tuition fees and living expenses, look at HELP loans.

    Commonwealth Supported Places
    Almost every university in Australia offers undergraduate students Commonwealth Support Places (CSP).

    If you’re awarded a CSP, it means that the government will cover the majority of your fees. But not all, so you will still have to pay a certain amount.

    The amount you’ll have to pay is called your student contribution. This amount varies depending on the university and the course you enrol in, and can change every year. You can find the latest amounts on the Study Assist website.

    You can apply for a HECS-HELP loan to cover your student contribution costs
    You’ll either have to pay your student contribution fees upfront…or you can apply for a HECS-HELP loan.

    Because it is a loan, unfortunately that means you’ll have to repay the money. But you’re not obligated to make any repayments until you’re earning over a certain salary.

    The amount you’ll have to earn before you have to start repaying your loan is set by the Australian Tax Office (ATO) and changes each year. So make sure to check with them so you know when you need to start making repayments.

    As a guide, the 2022-2023 repayment threshold is $48,361 per year – so if you’re earning below that amount, you won’t have to start making repayments.

    To apply for HECS-HELP you’ll need a tax file number (TFN). You’ll then need to fill out a Request for Commonwealth support and HECS-HELP form, supplied by your university or other provider. Make sure you submit the form before the census date, or you might have to pay your fees upfront.

    If you’re unsure about the process or need assistance, make sure to contact your university or provider, and they can help walk you through the process.

    For students who’ll have to pay full fees, there’s FEE-HELP loans
    If you are awarded a university place where you’ll have to pay full fees, don’t stress.

    You can apply for a government FEE-HELP loan to help you out. The money can only be used towards tuition fees, not other expenses like accommodation or books etc.

    To apply for a FEE-HELP loan, you’ll need a tax file number (TFN) and you’ll need to submit a Request for FEE-HELP loan form to your course provider. Once again, ensure you fully complete it and submit it before the cut-off date.

    Other HELP that could be an option for you
    If your course provider charges you a student services and amenities fee, you can apply for an SA-HELP loan to help you cover those costs.

    Note: the maximum you can be charged in 2022 is $315 – it may change in 2023 and subsequent years.

    If you’re enrolled in a CSP and want to complete some of your studies overseas, you can apply for OS-HELP loan to go towards airfares, accommodation or other travel costs.

    There’s HELP for vocational studies too
    VET Student Loans (VSL) could cover some of your tuition fees if you’d like to study a Diploma-level qualification or above.

    If you’re applying for a Certificate IV or lower level qualification, then you won’t be eligible for a VSL, but you can always ask your provider about other finance options.

    The HELP loan limit available to you is significant
    In 2022, the HELP loan limit is $109,206. If you apply to study medicine, dentistry or veterinary science, or eligible aviation courses, your HELP loan limit goes up to $156,847.

    This is the maximum amount of money you can borrow from the government, and includes all of FEE-HELP, HECS-HELP and VSL combined. You don’t have to borrow up to the limit and it’s worth remembering that whatever you borrow, you’ll ultimately be paying back.

    The amount of money you have borrowed and therefore amount of money left available for you to borrow is called your HELP balance.

    You can keep an eye on your balance at myHELPbalance. You’ll need to know your CHESSN (Commonwealth Higher Education Student Support Number) to log in.

    The HELP balance is renewable
    You can start making voluntary repayments at any time, and the money will be credited to your account.  This increases the amount available in your HELP balance and could make you eligible to take out further loans.

    For example, if you have borrowed up to the HELP loan limit, but you work part time during your studies or get a holiday job, choosing to voluntarily repay $6,000 off your loans could mean you can access further study.

    You’ll need to do some further research
    Before you plan your future studies on the basis of what you’ve read here, you’ll need to find out a few things:

    • Are you eligible for these loans?
    • What are the requirements to ensure you remain eligible throughout your course? For example, for FEE-HELP you may have to obtain a minimum pass rate each year of your studies or your loan could be suspended.
    • Are there any additional fees and costs involved?
    • What are your responsibilities after you’ve graduated?
    • How and when you should start making compulsory repayments, or how to go about making voluntary repayments.

    There are other options to help you pay your way too
    If a HELP loan could help you cover the cost of your tuition fees, that’s one hurdle out of the way. But it’s not your only option.

    Services Australia also provides financial assistance to students through Youth Allowance, Austudy and ABSTUDY.

    You can also consider other things like scholarships, bursaries and grants to help you cover additional costs, including accommodation, books, living expenses and travel.

  • How to help your teen make good decisions about school and life

    Good decision-making skills can help your teen make good choices and set them up for success later in life.

    Teens can face many challenges at school that require them to make choices, such as the transition to high school, selecting subjects, bullying, friendships, and exam stress. Spark their Future has provided five steps you can use with your teen to help them make good decisions about school and life.

    Find out more here.

  • Spend your Gap Year in America

    Applications for the 2023 Camp America program are now open.

    As part of Camp America, you will head to the United States for 9-12 weeks and become a counsellor for youth participating in Summer Camp programs. Summer camp in America is a massive tradition. It’s estimated there are 12,000 camps spread all over the country and each summer some 11 million children and adults will attend camp.

    There is also the opportunity for participants to spend time travelling around America after the camp has concluded.

    Learn more about Camp America and how to get involved here.


Disclaimer: Statements on careers and courses included in this newsletter are not necessarily those of Sacred Heart College. i.e. The text of notices on courses and industry prospects may be taken directly from their correspondence/publicity material. Some material taken from Study Work Grow (South Australia Careers News).