Norwest innovative career education
Everyday Norwest Christian College students are preparing for their future careers , in a VUCA world ( Volatile , Uncertain , Complex and Ambiguous ). It is estimated that on average , current school leavers will experience over 18 jobs across five different careers .
The guiding principle of the college ’ s Building Purposeful Lives learning framework provides direction and focus to education and future opportunities for our alumni .
Children often fantasise about the endless possibilities limited only by their imagination , however children will unconsciously accept gender differences in careers – from what they perceive . Many students in Year 6 will have begun to think about or imagine their careers .
As students progress through Secondary years , they will attach significance to career aspirations and
Our youngest students explore and extend capabilities during play .
post school studies . A large number of university students these days change courses and career directions whilst studying . For many , career changes will naturally occur throughout their working life . During the coming decades , currently un-thought-of jobs will emerge as others disappear .
At Norwest Christian College , career education begins in the Early Learning Centre . Young students are learning to relate with others , assist with tasks , explore imagination and extend capabilities during play . Being responsible and reliable are appropriate ‘ building blocks ’ for future years .
During the college ’ s primary years , students learn the importance of numeracy and literacy skills and how they contribute to learning and life aspirations . They learn interpersonal skills and how to communicate and work positively and respectfully with others .
Students develop decision making attributes and learn how Christian faith motivates purpose in life and contributes to personal and community responsibility .
They also learn how technology skills complement learning and support students as they begin to navigate through life and work .
Mrs Pamela Ledley is the college ’ s Careers Counsellor .
“ One of the key elements of career development is exploration and inspiration ,” Pamela said .
The Secondary Careers Futures Program enhances these elements through “ meeting and engaging with a wide range of industry professionals ”.
Pamela added , “ We see these first-hand conversations as one of the essential elements of inspiration .”
There are also a wide range of relevant industry excursions .
During Years 10 and 11 , students engage in a week of work experience . These invaluable experiences provide opportunities for students to work alongside professionals in many areas and help shape ideas for future work . Every student in Years 10 , 11 and 12 has an individual meeting with the Careers Counsellor to discuss future career plans .
They also engage in personality profiling in order to identify traits suitable for certain careers . Students establish goals to assist with their decision making , including committing to academic success , participation in college and community life , making suitable subject
Students building foundational skills in preparation for their future careers . choices and gaining experience in their field of interest .
Elise , Year 10 said , “ I aim to be a primary teacher because good early role models are important as children grow up to be independent young adults .”
Aaron , also Year 10 , wants to be a lawyer , “ There is a lot of injustice in society and there are many personally defenceless people . I may be fairly quiet , but I am determined to stand up for those who need help . I want to make a difference .” With the foundational skills and experiences found at Norwest Christian College , we know he will .
Enquiries : Norwest Christian College , Riverstone , office @ nwcc . nsw . edu . au .
30 ISSUE 135 // AUGUST 2021 theindependentmagazine . com . au THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT