Our learning support and mentoring programs in 90 Australian communities directly help children in need achieve their goals through education.
View all programs Making moments that create careers
28 June 2024
When a student has the chance to try out different jobs, their understanding of what’s possible for their future grows. These hands-on experiences can be just what the student needs to help reach their potential.
Richard, a Smith Family Growing Careers Project Programs Coordinator, says experience is key to having the chance to make good career choices.
“Often kids don't know what they don't know. Or they may only be hearing one source of information that pushes them down one path,” Richard says.
“The most important thing is that students have access to information and hands-on experiences. This helps them make good decisions when the time comes.”
Our volunteers also play a vital role in transforming futures through the Growing Careers Project. Darren is a volunteer who speaks to students on goal setting, motivation, persistence and wellbeing. This provides students with the skills to build the right mindset in planning and going for their dream careers.
“I talk to students about the opportunities available and how to make the most of them,” Darren explains. “Creating a positive mindset and habits, using teachers and leaders, and finding mentors."
I enjoy making a difference. Students tell me they loved my presentations and what they learned. It’s nice to know I’m having a positive impact.
Many children experiencing disadvantage can lack support networks and industry connections, limiting their knowledge of opportunities after school. Richard and Darren aim to change this by opening up access to different career options. The Growing Careers Project helps by putting students in touch with multiple programs throughout high school, like Work Inspiration.
Work Inspiration gives access to career opportunities many students wouldn’t have had otherwise. During the program, real workplaces give students the chance to explore career journeys and connect with staff.
Richard reflects on when he took students to a training company during a Work Inspiration program. While hearing from a company representative, the students learned – by accident – that it’s always important to act with professionalism and respect.
“The presenter told the students, ‘If you apply here, I’ll be the one assessing your application.’ One young man wasn't paying full attention. The presenter stopped and said, ‘You say you’re interested, but you’re playing on your phone now.’
“It was a golden moment for the students, including the young man who learned a powerful lesson.”
Career education has long-lasting impacts. Understanding how to be professional gives students more tools to go after the career they want.
“The person leading that session introduced a young man interested in an apprenticeship to an employer who was ready to offer work experience,” Richard adds. “That may never have happened without the Work Inspiration program.”
Providing students with various work experiences in high school positively impacts their engagement with future work, training, or study. With so much to explore, volunteers like you are essential to bringing these programs to as many students as possible.
Richard and Darren value the difference their efforts make. Like you, they’re helping inspire a generation to unlock their potential for a bright future.
“I enjoy making a difference,” says Darren. “Students tell me they loved my presentations and what they learned. It’s nice to know I’m having a positive impact.”
Thank you to all the volunteers who give their time to support students to reach their potential. With your help, programs like the Growing Careers Project can continue to broaden students’ views of career options beyond school.
You’re a huge part of helping more students set their sights on relevant careers and open up possibilities for their futures.
