Careers and Pathways
Empowering Informed Choices for Life Beyond School
At Westall Secondary College, our Careers and Pathways program helps students take charge of their futures. As the world of work changes, so does our approach. We support students to become confident, self-motivated planners of their own careers.
Students get access to up-to-date career and job information, as well as opportunities to explore further education through tours and real-world experiences.
At our school, Careers and Pathways support is led by Geraldine Borgonha, a caring and dedicated Professional Career Development Practitioner. Geraldine brings a wealth of experience in helping students explore their future options, whether that’s heading to university, TAFE, starting an apprenticeship, or going straight into the workforce. Her commitment to student success was recognised with an award in Applied Learning Coordination and Support from the City of Bayside, Glen Eira, and Kingston. Geraldine works one-on-one with students to help them discover their strengths, set meaningful goals, and map out clear, achievable pathways for life beyond school.
What we offer
Core Career Planning & Guidance
- Career Action Plans – personalised plans to help students map out their future pathways.
- Pathways Counselling – one-on-one support to explore options and set goals.
- Subject Selection Counselling – guidance to choose subjects aligned with career goals.
- Career Exploration – tools and resources to help students discover a wide range of careers.
- Exit Interviews – helping students reflect on their goals and finalise their post-school plans.
Further Education & Applications
- University & TAFE Course Guidance – support to understand study options and pathways.
- VTAC Application Process Support – step-by-step help with tertiary applications.
- Interstate Application Advice – support for applying to universities outside Victoria.
- Scholarship Opportunities – information and assistance to apply for financial support.
- University Extension Studies – access to university-level subjects for high-achieving students.
- VCAA Information – updates and explanations of senior pathways, requirements, and assessments.
Exposure & Enrichment Opportunities
- Careers Expo Excursions – visits to major career expos to meet employers, training providers, and universities.
- Industry Immersion Days – excursions and programs that give students a closer look at specific industries.
- In-School Career Expos – on-site events showcasing local employers and career pathways.
- GAP Year Opportunities – resources for students exploring travel, volunteering, or work before further study.
Workplace Readiness
- Work Experience Program – Year 10 program to explore career interests in a real-world setting.
- Structured Workplace Learning – industry-based placements connected to VET studies.
- Resume Writing Support – helping students create strong, job-ready resumes.
- Interview Skills Coaching – building confidence for job and course interviews.
Vocational Pathways & Support
- Apprenticeship and Traineeship Information – details about hands-on career pathways.
- School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) – support with combining school and paid training.
- VET in Schools (VETiS) – guidance on choosing vocational subjects while at school.
- Guidance for VET Course Selection – help choosing the right vocational education and training options.
Year Level Programs
Junior & Middle Schools
Students in Years 7 to 10 take part in structured careers education activities aligned with the Department of Education guidelines.
Year 7 and 8
In Years 7 and 8, careers activities revolve around the theme ‘My Career Exploration’, where students begin to discover how their own interests, strengths, and values can shape future career pathways. It’s a fun and engaging way to start thinking about who they are and what they might want to do in the future.
Year 9
In Year 9, students take part in the ‘My Career Insights’ program, which includes the Morrisby Careers Assessment and a one-on-one 30-minute session with an external careers advisor. They also build important job-seeking skills, like writing resumes and preparing for interviews. In addition, students participate in the Future Me program, delivered by experienced staff at the school.
Year 10
Work Experience is an exciting part of Year 10, giving students a chance to step out of the classroom and into the real world of work. Over one week, they explore careers of interest, gain practical skills, and experience different workplaces. It’s a great way to try something new, build confidence, and start planning for life after school. We support students in finding placements that match their interests and goals. The program runs in June, alongside the Work Readiness Program with the Beacon Foundation.
Senior School
At Westall Secondary College, Senior School students have a variety of pathways to choose from, depending on their interests and future goals. They can complete the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), the VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM), or the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC).
Students in Years 10, 11, and 12 can also take on Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses as part of their VCE, VCE VM or VPC program. As part of several VET networks and with strong connections to local TAFE institutes, we’re able to offer a wide range of hands-on learning opportunities.
We also have eight School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) available, allowing students to gain real industry experience while completing their secondary studies.
Supports during and beyond school
At Westall Secondary College, we’re committed to supporting students not just during their time at school, but also as they take their next steps into the future. Every Year 12 student is encouraged to explore further education, whether through university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or traineeships. We provide one-on-one career counselling to help guide them through these important decisions.
Throughout their time at the College, all students complete a Career Action Plan twice a year, helping them set goals and think ahead about their future pathways. For students who may be at risk of disengaging, we offer tailored support to keep them connected and help them find meaningful and realistic pathways into further education or training.
Even after students leave Westall, we continue to check in to make sure they’re on track and offer ongoing support if needed. Our focus is on ensuring every student has the confidence, knowledge, and guidance to move forward with purpose.
Careers Office Location
The Careers Office is located in the East end of the B wing near the middle school office.
Westall Careers Site
Our Team
Geraldine Borgonha
Careers & Pathways Advisor
Linda-Marie McDowell
Careers & Pathways Assistant
Teaching & Learning