Paving the way to meaningful careers
Paving the way to meaningful careers
Head of Careers and Pathways Mr Des Sinovich has assisted thousands of students to make informed choices for their future careers. In a recent parent survey, it was reported that the proportion of our parents who believe their child has been well prepared for university and further careers was an impressive eight per cent above the national average. We caught up with Mr Sinovich to find out how he approaches careers education.
By Layla Harris.
What careers advice do our students receive and when is your first official contact with them?
The formal process of further study and career development exploration commences in Year 10 with the comprehensive career assessment programme, which is followed by course and subject selection for Years 11 and 12.
Half of my role is dedicated to Pathways, which is the management of external courses and students who undertake these. Between Years 10-12, a comprehensive programme of events, seminars and workshops are offered to students. As students near the end of their schooling, I meet with each student to discuss their pathway beyond school.
“Subject choices, academic progress and performance, temperament, personal interests, world view and other factors are considered as part of a holistic approach to career counselling.”
Head of Careers and Pathways, Mr Des Sinovich.
“I encourage students to explore their options widely with an open mind. Focus on the best starting point for further study and career development and go from there.”
Mr Sinovich
How do you recommend students narrow down their options when there is so much information out there?
Course choice is always more important than choice of location. An area of interest explored through the most suitable and appropriate course will keep one inspired, not a location or a building.
It’s important for students to have realistic aspirations and I aim to explore these with them, based on their subject choices, (academic) performance, interests and world view.
What advice would you have for students and their parents who are not sure what path they would like to take after Year 12?
For students, I would encourage them to explore their options widely with an open mind. Focus on the best starting point for further study and career development and go from there. I advise students to expect change and embrace it, and don’t waste time and energy on things beyond your control. Also, be kind to yourself; the road to achievement and success is always under construction and the expert in anything was once a beginner.
For parents, listen to your child, have curious conversations and explore their choices with them.