On Monday, 25th November Year 9 participated in a Careers incursion to introduce them to career concepts, get them thinking about their futures and explore a range of industries and jobs. This was the first time we have run such an activity and it was well embraced by the grade.
We initially explored career myths and stereotypes, focusing on assumptions we make about certain industries and gender dominant roles. Students were challenged on their own career knowledge, having to come up with a job title for each letter of the alphabet, and then later to surmise all the roles involved in the production and distribution of a lead pencil. They were quite excited by this challenge and everyone’s perspective on the pencil that they regularly hold in their hands had changed!
Year 9 then completed a self reflection activity as we filled in a Career Action Plan covering their interests, values and skills. A bit of motivation from world-renowned speaker and author Simon Sinek (via Youtube) provided some inspiration for a goal setting activity on their future education and employment.
We then leapt into the second half of the program with a fast paced video from Macquarie Group and this intrigued the girls to learn of the various functions and industry overlap of an investment bank/ advisory group. Students were divided into groups to research a specific industry from a choice of 19 options - including agriculture and environment; marketing, public relations and events; tourism and hospitality; and engineering, to name a few. This enabled them to think more specifically on the range of roles, variation of education and training required, the major companies and workplace environments of jobs, the associations and institutes that support various industry groups, and the statistics on jobs growth for the future in that particular industry. Students then shared their knowledge by presenting to their peers at the end of the day.
Here are some reflections about the day from Year 9:
The activity helped open our minds that we shouldn't limit ourselves to what career we should do. If one has the determination and passion then they are capable of learning new skills for a career they wish.
It was interesting to learn and understand how many different jobs there are to creating just a simple everyday object such as a pencil. It also made me reflect on the importance of different jobs and how they collaborate to produce something together.
Allowed us to explore careers and how stereotypes can affect us. We got to see how kids perceive women and men in different job roles and how they are exposed to these.
It was good to regather my thoughts on where I would like to be in the future, and to keep me continuously striving for my goals.
I like analysing myself. I want to take the time to really give it some thought on what truly interests me and what I really want for myself in the future.
Year 9 engaged very well in the day’s activities, and it was clear that they benefited from career thinking and planning earlier than usual.
Mrs Amanda Chahine
Careers Adviser
