BSSC students have amazing opportunities for future pathways advice and career guidance.
Trish White and Simone Baker are part of BSSC’s Careers and Pathways team.
They are both qualified careers counsellors—not teachers—and advise students to make contact as early as possible.
“Even if you’re already linked in with another service or provider, it’s still vital to make contact with us,” says Trish. “Many local industries keep in regular contact with BSSC and if we know what you’re looking for, we can pass on opportunities more easily.”
Trish and Simone are focused on supporting students considering pathways other than university and aim to give students the tools to get the job or apprenticeship they want.
They maintain a comprehensive ‘Jobs Board’ which all students can access via a tab on the college’s website home page and which also shows apprenticeships on offer in Bendigo.
While Trish and Simone know completing VCE is a great way to be more employable, some students really struggle with school and Trish and Simone are people to talk to if the ‘wheels fall off’.
Guidance with resumes, interviewing skills, practice interviews, information about workplace expectations—and even what to wear to an interview—are all part of Trish and Simone’s roles.
They will even sit with students making calls to prospective employers.
“I love to think I can make a difference,” Trish says. “But most of all I love being part of the journey as students succeed and move on to something they’re really excited about.”
Simone says working with young people is a privilege.
“It’s so rewarding sharing in the excitement of a student getting their first job—and they’re always welcome to come back for advice if they’re struggling in their new role.”
Previous year’s students are also contacted in late February to see how they’re going.
If you’re a student at BSSC you can drop into the careers office in A-Block anytime—if Trish and Simone are busy, they’ll arrange another time to see you.
Another fabulous student support brought to you by BSSC!
