Western Australia trains practitioners to become future-proof high school students

“People think that ATAR success means a successful school, but it’s not. A successful school brings every child and prepares them for a bright future when they leave school,” she said.

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Nicole Anderson, who works at Balcatta Senior High School, said one of the best moments was when a group of 8th grade boys who were disconnected from studying came up to her, excited about developing a career, and asked what they would have to achieve It.

“It is absolutely vital that this support system is put in place for our students,” Anderson said.

“Children cannot be what they cannot see, we must expose them to the rapidly changing world that awaits them.”

Butler College’s Adam Smith said his job is to introduce students to new careers they could pursue that are tailored to their interests and skills.

He said when he was at school, students were expected to know what they wanted to do.

“I didn’t live up to that expectation, I just figured it out myself and learned over time, just picking up little bits and pieces, so I always felt like I was on the backfoot,” he said.

“I wish someone had been there, even just to tell me everything was going to be okay.”

Anderson said she also wished to have someone who championed education growing up.

“I was pigeonholed and told, ‘That’s what we expect of you,’ instead of being asked what my goals are,” she said.

Giblett said she wanted to give something back to the next generation.

“I have two parents who didn’t go to college, so I didn’t really plan on going there either. I had a teacher who pulled me to the side and told me he thought I should try and told me he believed in me,” she said.

“I want to be that person for someone else. Every student should have someone who believes in them.”

Minister of Education Dr. Tony Buti said the world of work is changing and students would benefit from extra help navigating the opportunities.

“The professional practitioner initiative [will] help our students make the right career choices,” he said.

“I… look forward to seeing the practitioners continue to partner with industry, providing internship opportunities and preparing our young people for the future.”

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