Careers and Transition

Work Experience

Blakehurst High School's work experience program offers Year 10 students valuable career insights each term. While participation is encouraged, it's not mandatory, and consistent support is provided.

Through hands-on tasks, students develop professional skills and explore career paths. By applying classroom knowledge in real-world settings, they gain insights into workplace dynamics and build connections, ultimately preparing for future careers while enhancing teamwork and communication skills.

Vocational Training and Apprenticeships/Traineeships

• School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship - SBAT

SBATs give students paid on-the-job training while completing their HSC.

SBATs combine part-time employment with training toward a nationally recognised HSC vocational education and training course (VET) qualification

School-based apprenticeships and traineeships | NSW Education Standards

• External-delivered Vocational Education and Training  - EVET

All EVET courses help students build practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, and count toward your school outcome, with some courses contributing towards an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).

Stage 6 vocational education and training (VET) courses offered at Blakehurst High School

1. business services
2. construction
3. hospitality food and beverage
4. sport coaching.

Please note: information is current at the date of publication. However, due to possible changes as a result of training packages and NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) updates, there may be variations to a course description prior to course delivery. Notification of changes will be made in due time.

VET courses

Vocational education and training (VET) courses are offered as part of the Higher School Certificate (HSC) or Record of School Achievement (RoSA). VET courses are designed to deliver workplace-specific skills and knowledge and cover a wide range of careers and industries. VET courses for secondary students are developed by the NSW Educational Standards Authority (NESA) and are based on national training packages.

VET courses allow students to gain both HSC or RoSA qualifications and a national qualification or a statement of attainment recognised throughout Australia as part of the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF). These qualifications are widely recognised by industry, employers and tertiary training providers and universities and will assist students to move to various education and training sectors and employment.

Public Schools NSW, Ultimo is accredited as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to deliver and assess VET qualifications to secondary students.

Board developed VET courses are classified as Category B subjects and only one can contribute to the calculation of the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). These courses have an optional HSC examination. Students wishing to include a VET course in the ATAR calculation must sit the HSC examination after they have completed a minimum of 4 preliminary and/or HSC units.

Board developed VET courses have specified workplace requirement and include 70 hours of industry specific mandatory work placement or simulated workplace hours as specified by NESA.

Board endorsed VET courses do count towards the HSC or RoSA but do not have HSC examinations therefore can't count in the calculations of the ATAR. Board endorsed VET courses have mandatory or recommended industry specific work placement.

Assessment in all VET courses is competency based. The student is assessed on what they can do (the skills) and what they know (the knowledge) that will equip them in the workplace. Students who have successfully achieved competency will have the skills and knowledge to complete workplace activities in a range of different situations and environments, to an industry standard of performance expected in the workplace.

Competency-based assessment materials are designed to ensure each learner has achieved all the outcomes (skills and knowledge) to the level of the qualification. Competency-based training is based on performance standards that have been set by industry.

Students will receive documentation showing any competencies achieved for the VET course undertaken.

Due to the specific requirements of a VET course it is recommended students speak to the VET Head Teacher VET or Careers Adviser Mrs Koutsoukos before choosing the course to ensure they are fully aware of the requirements and that the course is suitable for their individual needs, knowledge and skills.

School based apprenticeships and traineeships in NSW

A school based apprenticeship or traineeship prepares students for a career in a particular industry, provides a training wage and skills training for both on-the-job (minimum 100 days) and off-the-job at school, TAFE NSW or a private provider.

You can do a school based apprenticeship in any of the following areas:

• automotive
• commercial cookery
• construction
• electro technology
• hairdressing
• health services assistance
• metal and engineering
• plumbing, and more.

You can do a school based traineeship in any of the following areas:

• animal care
• automotive services
• beauty
• business services
• local government
• retail services
• sport and recreation
• warehousing, and many more.

For more information, check out  SBAT information  website.

The Blakehurst High School Career Exposition

Our annual Career Expo takes place in June, bringing universities, colleges, TAFE and numerous employment providers to our students and their parents/carers.  The BHS Career Expo gives students the opportunity to interact with these providers, ask questions and make connections.

Business Services

The HSC VET business services curriculum framework is based on units of competency and qualifications contained in nationally endorsed training packages. Students have the potential to obtain a Certificate II in business (upon successful achievement of all competencies) or a statement of attainment towards a Certificate II in business.

Business services is completed over 2 years (240 hours).

Students will study 9 compulsory units:

• participate in OHS processes
• communicate in the workplace
• deliver a service to customers
• work effectively in a work environment
• process and maintain workplace information
• participate in sustainable work practices
• organise and complete daily work activities
• work effectively with others
• use business technology.

Students will also study up to 5 elective units:

• handle mail
• develop keyboard skills
• produce simple word processed documents
• create and use spreadsheets
• communicate electronically.

To meet Board of Studies requirements, students must complete 70 hours of work placement.

How much practical/ theory work is there in this subject?

This is a competency-based course. To be assessed as competent a student must demonstrate that they can carry out various tasks to the standard required by industry. Therefore there is a strong emphasis on practical skills in this course. Theory work is also required to provide knowledge of industry terminology and functions for students to sit for the HSC examination in this subject.

What background and skills are recommended for this subject?

Students should have an interest in the business services industry with a view to a career in fields such as receptionist, clerical assistant, personal assistant, and secretary.

Are there additional requirements for this subject?

A working knowledge of keyboarding and word processing computer programs is desirable but not essential. Computing skills may be an advantage but not necessary. Students must complete 70 hours of work placement in the business service industry over the two-year course.

There is also a fee charged of $30 per year.

Are there any exclusions for this subject?

There are no exclusions for this subject.

How will this course help me in the future?

The competencies, skills and work experience students gain in this course will equip them for direct entry into the workforce. In addition to HSC qualifications, successful completion of this course will provide students with a Certificate II in business that is a nationally recognised entry-level employment qualification.

Construction

Construction – VET

What will I do in this subject?

This course is for students who want to work in the building and construction industry. The course seeks to provide the basic training that is required by all workers in the industry and it includes official assessment for the issuing of the CIC card (construction induction certificate or card) necessary for entry onto a construction site. The course teaches students a range of practical and technical skills including measuring and calculating, work planning, working safely, conveying information, handling material, interpreting drawings, levelling, concreting and operating tools, quality principals and construction methods.

What skills will I gain from this subject?

Students who are assessed as competent in all of the prescribed units in the Year 11 course will be eligible for BCG03 Certificate 1 in general construction. Students who continue with the course in Year 12 will also receive a statement of attainment towards the CPC20208 Certificate II in general construction or a pathway course. Students who meet the general level of occupational health and safety induction training for the construction industry, as required by state legislation, receive the work cover white card. This card provides access by students to construction sites for their work placement. These vocational qualifications are recognised nationally by TAFE, private providers and the industry. As well, students may include this course in the calculation of a ATAR for university entrance.

How much practical/theory work is in this subject?

This is a very practical course, with a general pattern of 1 theory lesson and 2 practical lessons per week.

What background and skills are recommended for this subject?

Prospective students should have an interest in the construction industry, have basic mathematical skills and be able to work cooperatively and safely with others.

Are there additional requirements for this subject?

Students must wear leather shoes and, before gaining access to the workshop, must have a protective work shirt and be in possession of their work cover white card. Students must also undertake site-specific OHS training before being allowed onto a work site. Students must complete 35 hours of work placement for every 120 hours of course work (ie a total of 70 hours over the 2 years of the course).

There is also a fee charge of $35 per year.

Are there any exclusions for this subject?

Industrial technology – building and construction industries focus area.

How will this course help me in the future?

The competencies, skills and work place learning experiences student gain in this course will enhance their job prospects for entry level in the general construction sector of this industry. Students will be able to articulate directly into the AQF Certificate II courses:

• construction assistant – concreting
• trades assistant (this job can lead to work in various streams).

Hospitality

What will I do in this subject?

This course is for students who wish to work in hospitality in food and beverage. You will acquire the skills and knowledge needed to operate as a qualified food and beverage attendant in a variety of diverse environments such as cafes, bars, bistros, clubs and restaurants.

The topics include:

• follow health, safety and security procedures
• follow workplace hygiene procedures
• develop and update hospitality industry knowledge
• work in a socially diverse environment
• participate in environmentally sustainable work practices
• prepare and serve espresso CoffeeTAR
• serve food and beverage to customers
• clean and maintain premises
• prepare and serve non-alcoholic beverages
• implement food safety procedures
• apply hospitality skills in the workplace
• receive and store stock
• apply POS handling procedures
• work with colleagues and customers
• communicate on the telephone
• source and present information

What skills will I gain from this subject?

Students can include this course in this calculation of a ATAR for university entrance if they sit for the hospitality HSC exam. Students are also eligible for a Certificate II in hospitality. Students will become competent in providing food and beverages services to customers in a range of hospitality enterprises. They will learn about industry trends, communication skills, cleaning procedures, principles of hygiene and safety, how to work in a team environment as well as time management and organisational skills.

How much practical/theory work is in this subject?

This is both a theory and practical subject. Students are required to complete both components to achieve a competency pass. Students will manage and operate a cafe at school, once a week, for staff. As well they will be involved in other catering opportunities throughout the 2 years. Students complete practical sessions in a food and Beverage uniform with hard leather full covered shoes.

Are there additional costs for this subject?

Yes. Subject fees are approximately $120 which will pay for the coffee barista course. There is also an additional $65 cost for the uniform. The total cost is approximately $185. These costs are subject to change based on the economy at the time.

What background and skills are recommended for this subject?

There are no specific prerequisites for this course.

Are there additional requirements for this subject?

Students must complete 35 hours of work placement for every 120 hours of course work (total 70 hours over 2 years) in a range of hospitality enterprises. Compulsory attendance to the coffee barista course is also essential.

Are there any exclusions for this subject?

There no exclusions for this course.

How will this course help me in the future?

This course is ideal for students, who would like a full time or part time career in tourism and travel, events management, food and beverage and hotel management.

Information Technology

What will I do in this course?

The focus of this course is in the support and management of the use of information technology.

It is based on units developed in the IT industry to provide students with opportunities to develop and enhance competencies relevant to employment in industries where information technology is used.

Over 2 years, students gain competencies in the following compulsory units:

• work effectively in an information technology environment
• apply occupational health and safety procedures
• operate computing packages
• operate computer hardware
• design organisational documents using computing packages
• integrate commercial computing packages
• communicate in the workplace
• follow workplace safety procedures
• operate a personal computer
• use computer operating system
• create user documentation
• install and optimise operating system software
• provide advice to clients
• care for computer hardware
• run standard diagnostic tests
• use development and IT tools to build a basic website.

What skills will I gain from this subject?

Students develop a range of skills in preparation for working effectively in an environment where information technology is used. These include oral and written communication skills, teamwork skills and efficient use of a range of software application packages, essential hardware management and occupational health and safety competencies.

How much practical/theory work is in this subject?

This is a very practical course, although the theory component is considered essential background and training for successfully achieving competencies. Practical and theoretical aspects of the course are integrated. Students wishing for an ATAR and sitting the HSC exam in information technology will need a thorough understanding of the theoretical components of this course.

What background and skills are recommended for this subject?

There are no specific prerequisites for this course.  It is not necessary to have taken computing studies in Years 9 and 10.

Are there additional requirements for this subject?

Students must attempt each of the units of competency described in the course structure and undertake a minimum of 35 hours work placement in IT for each 120 hours of study (i.e. 70 hours over 2 years). Work placements are completed in Term 2 and Term 3 of Year 11.

There is also a subject fee of $65 per year.

Are there any exclusions for this subject?

No. Students can study VET IT with any other courses, including information processes and technology.

How will this course help me in the future?

The information technology curriculum framework is accredited for the HSC and provides students with the opportunity to obtain nationally recognised vocational qualifications. Students who are assessed as competent in all of the units of competency in information technology (240 hrs) will be eligible for AQF Certificate II in information technology or a statement of attainment towards Certificate III in information technology course ICA30105.  This course is eligible for inclusion in the ATAR.

Sports Coaching

What will I do in this subject?

This subject leads to the award of the Certificate II in sports coahcing. This course counts toward the HSC program of study but not towards the ATAR. It is recognised by industry and accredited under the AQTF.

You will study compulsory modules to teach you how to work in a business environment, work and communicate with others, organise sport activities, use technology, develop knowledge of the sport and recreation industry, coaching practice rules and regulations, and preparing equipment and conducting sport sessions, games and competitions. You will also select a sport in which to specialise. Sports available include: rugby league or surf lifesaving.

What skills will I gain from this subject?

Skills involved in operating and managing a business, working effectively in a team, teaching and developing skills in your specialised sport, tactical skills, conditioning skills and communication skills. In general you will learn skills in preparing and conducting sport and recreation sessions, learn athlete support in areas of nutrition, travel and goal setting.

How much practical/theory work is in this subject?

There is a broad theory component required to attain Certificate II qualifications. However, this is a competency based course where achievement in your specialist sport involves demonstrated evidence of practical skills and performance is required.

What background and skills are recommended for this subject?

You will need a keen interest in the sport and recreation industry, ability in a particular sport and a goal to pursue this as a future career.

Are there additional requirements for this subject?

A work placement of 35 hours for every 120 hours of course work is mandatory.

Are there any exclusions for this subject?

Units common to VET business services.

How will this course help me in the future?

This course allows students to undertake sport (coaching) qualifications as part of their HSC program of study. It is recognised across Australia by industry and private training providers. It provides advanced standing into TAFE NSW and provides entry level qualifications into the sport and recreation industry.

Externally delivered vocational education and training (EVET)

NSW school students in Years 9–12 have the option of studying VET courses at school or through TAFE NSW or other training providers. VET courses can only be delivered by registered training organisations (RTOs) that meet national standards and have the relevant qualification and units of competency on their scope of registration. VET is ‘dual accredited'. Students receive recognition towards their school qualification (record of school achievement or HSC), as well as a nationally recognised VET qualification (certificate or statement of attainment). Students successfully completing a VET courses will be entitled to credit transfer in other courses in a similar industry after leaving school by provided their qualifications to the tertiary institution.

All students studying a VET course must obtain a unique student identifier (USI) and provide this to the training provider at the commencement of the course.

Board developed industry curriculum framework courses include automotive, business services, construction, electrotechnology, entertainment industry, financial services hospitality, information and digital technology, human services, metal & engineering, primary industries, retail services and tourism, travel & events. These courses are Category B courses, mostly count for 4 units of HSC credit, include 70 hours of mandatory work placement and have an optional HSC examination and only one course can be counted in the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).

Board endorsed vocational education and training courses are courses based on national industry training packages that are endorsed by the Board of studies, teaching and educational standard for inclusion as an elective in Year 9 or 10 or in the Higher School Certificate. These courses include animal studies, beauty therapy, fashion design, hairdressing, lock smithing, laboratory skills, plumbing, sport and recreation and many more. These courses mostly count for 4 units of HSC credit, do not count towards the ATAR and do not have an optional HSC examination.

• EVET courses are delivered by either a TAFE NSW College or a private provider. These courses offer a broader range of subjects and should be closely related to future career or study plans.
• Attendance and progress requirements are very strict for EVET courses. If a student fails to attend some of the course or if they do not satisfactorily complete all work set they will fail the course or may be withdrawn from the course.
• Numbers in these EVET courses will be limited as other schools will also be involved. Most students will only be able to choose one EVET course. If a student is not selected they will continue to study the six subjects (12 units) chosen to study at school.
• Student commitment – once a student starts a course they will be expected to commit to completing the course. Students will not be permitted to change to another course.
• Travel – students studying EVET courses must organise their own transport arrangements to the TAFE college or study venue and make their own way home at the conclusion of the class.
• Proposed timetabling – EVET courses are conducted on different days of the week with most classes in previous years commencing at 1:30pm and ending at 5:30pm.
• Student will be granted early leave passes from school upon acceptance into an EVET course and the completion and submission of an early leave application available from the careers Advisor. Students doing courses as part of the 12 units will be given compensatory study periods during the week.

Students must complete a separate EVET application form, please collect and return to Mrs Koutsoukos.

Examples of EVET courses that have been offered in previous years and may be offered in 2019.

For more information, visit the 2019 TVET Course List (PDF 554KB).

Useful Links

Blakehurst High Careers

Provide the latest information about your future career and life beyond High School. This site has a wealth of career information for students and parents, as well as the latest news and events.

Job Jump

Helpful links and videos related to careers. (See the Careers or Transition Adviser for login details)

MyFuture

This site will allow students and parents to gauge and understand their career prospects in the future.

Explore Careers Australia

Designed to bring school students and their future employer together.

UAC

University Admission Centre  provides detailed information about various university courses and processes applications.

Tafe NSW

Offers hundreds of courses with a wide range of study options from online courses to diplomas and degrees, training and full-time education.