When a school community is almost exclusively online, understanding the value of face-to-face opportunities is critical to the way we to the work that we do.
The recent VCE Subject Fair for those entering their senior secondary school years proudly boasted an increase in numbers from last years’ event. Our Careers team – who diligently promoted and hosted the event – think that success comes down to the atmosphere created. It’s the little touches, like offering cups of tea and coffee, and a pizza lunch, to get people talking and connecting with each other. For some students and their families, this event can be their first time on the Thornbury campus, creating a mix of excitement and nervousness in the room.
“I believe that something precious is transmitted when we have face to face events, it’s human connection, in the spirit of care and a culture of service. It’s hard to do virtually. It’s important for our students to meet and engage with others, observe role models, and practice their communication skills,” says Middle Years Careers Practitioner, Louise Hudson.
During the presentations, students were focused and engaged with the information being shared, showing a readiness to make the most out of the Subject Fair, and the opportunity to have genuine conversations directly with teachers. Selecting VCE subjects can feel like a big decision, and being able to ask questions, explore possibilities and receive advice in person made the process much more meaningful.
The gravitas on VCE subject selection is familiar to the VSV Careers team:
“It’s important for students to be able to take ownership of their VCE and choose a program that suits their goals and aspirations. Speaking directly with teachers and the careers team provided students with a real-world opportunity to discuss these things openly. It allowed them to ask questions that may not be answered by simply reading a subject outline or course summary, and to receive advice that is relevant to their individual goals. A conversation can spark a new idea, open up a possibility or help a student see a pathway they had not previously considered,” says Deanna Piastrino.
On what she considers that young people are thinking about your futures, Louise says,
“Many of our students are uncertain. We are asking them to look into the crystal ball and predict what they will be ready to learn and when. We talk about reduced workloads, and whether they are ready for a TAFE course next year, if they need to further develop SEL. We ask them about their current interests when they might be recovering from significant challenges and haven’t gotten around to giving it any meaningful consideration.”
Undoubtedly, one of the highlights of the event for staff was students sitting alongside their supporters, working through their VCE planners together, lining up for career consultations and successfully submitting their VET applications. These moments demonstrated just how capable and confident young people are when given the opportunity to actively shape their own decisions and future pathways.
What our students said:
“Everything was set out so well and it was easy to speak with staff. I can’t think of anything to improve.”
“Teachers were welcoming and explained everything thoroughly.”
“(I valued) the opportunity to connect with teachers of specific subjects.”
If you need support with the next best steps in your subject selection or study pathway, contact [email protected].
