Partnering with both the tertiary and VET sectors has given all students at a high school north of Brisbane tailored career pathways.
Mt Maria College Petrie Principal Kerry Maher said students at the Moreton Bay school received a balanced blend of academic learning and practical experience, allowing them to develop unique strengths.
Ms Maher said a partnership with the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) allowed students to study tertiary subjects at high school and build university credits through their Headstart program.
She said the school also offered Vocational Education and Training (VET) certificates and TAFE at School, supporting students who chose vocational pathways.
One of those pathways is provided through the Deadly Start program, run by Queensland Health.
“Many of our students are gaining practical experience through certificates or apprenticeships, giving them a head start in their careers and fostering the independence they will need as they transition to the ‘real world.’
“This hands-on approach not only prepares them for future success but also contributes to the many high achievers we are proud to have at our College.”
The Deadly Start program provides a culturally supportive pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to kick start a career in health through a Certificate II and III Traineeship with ongoing employment opportunities.
Year 11 student Victoria is pursuing a Certificate III in Health Services through the program at Prince Charles Hospital while continuing her studies.
“As part of my traineeship I get to try different streams within allied health, speech pathology, podiatry, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy,” Victoria said.
“I’m interested in becoming a paediatric physiotherapist or working in maternal health, so this certificate will give me the foundational skills and experience I need to pursue my career goals after school.”
Classmate Logan is taking advantage of the university partnership, with Mt Maria College’s proximity to UniSC Moreton Bay campus provided an invaluable opportunity.
The Headstart program challenges Year 10 to 12 students with university-level learning, allowing them to advance their study skills and gain credit towards a UniSC degree.
“Being able to take a university subject in Year 11 means I can start building my university portfolio now.
“By aligning my interests with practical experience, I am setting the stage for a promising career in the gaming industry.”
Ms Maher said the school’s commitment to providing diverse pathways made Mt Maria College an excellent choice for families who wanted their children to be well-prepared for life after graduation.
“Our goal is to empower students to be confident and creative individuals, successful lifelong learners, and active contributors to the transformation of our world through example, service, and leadership.”
Learn more on the Mt Maria College Petrie website.
