Year 12 Campbelltown Performing Arts High School student Mbali arrived at TAFE NSW Campbelltown unsure whether her future lay in criminology, health or social work.
After taking part in a hands-on health careers program, she is one step closer to finding the answer.
“I’m stuck between criminology, health, and social work,” she said.
Mbali is among a group of high school students exploring healthcare careers through the NSW Department of Education’s Educational Pathways Program (EPP), delivered at TAFE NSW Campbelltown.
The Start Your Future Health course gives students practical experience across a range of healthcare disciplines, from taking blood pressure readings to learning infection control and patient care skills.
The experience introduced Mbali to career opportunities she had never considered before.
“I didn’t know audiology was there, but I found out. And then, in nursing, there are so many different types,” she said.
She said gaining firsthand experience was far more valuable than simply listening to the advice of others.
“I feel like it’s important to try it out yourself,” Mbali said.
One lesson proved particularly memorable.
“What surprised me is that ear wax is actually good!” she laughed.
Fellow student Lylah said the practical nature of the course had been a major highlight, particularly learning with industry-standard equipment and mannikins.
Educational Pathways Program Head Teacher Careers Kate Rowe said the initiative was helping students make informed career decisions while addressing future workforce needs.
“It’s about engaging local students early, building job-ready skills and using VET pathways to strengthen our future workforce,” she said.
“We’re focused on helping more people connect with training, create new career opportunities, and thrive with the skills our economy needs,” Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan added.
By exposing students to real healthcare environments while they are still at school, the program is helping young people discover hidden career pathways, build confidence and take meaningful steps towards their future.
