Becoming qualified through vocational training is a rewarding experience in itself, but what can you look forward to once you graduate? Here are some helpful tips on how to find employment after your studies.
Take advantage of high job demand
You may have heard that Australia currently faces a nationwide skills shortage, especially in aged care and early childhood education. On the one hand, this is concerning. On the other, it indicates that right now it’s time to take advantage of employment opportunities in these thriving sectors.
How VET prepares you for employment
Vocational education and training (VET) is unique in that it’s specifically tailored for the job market. Our courses in aged care and early childhood are designed to prepare you for the workplace, and we’re proud to say that according to recent survey results from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), an overwhelming 86% of learners gained employment after training with us.
This shows that our courses provide learners with the skills they need to gain employment, paving the way to their dream job.
Five strategies to help you launch your career
So what happens once you’ve gained the skills and qualifications you need to enter your chosen sector? Well, from here it’s a matter of looking for your first job.
Beginning the job search can be a little daunting, especially if you’re entering the sector for the first time. If you’re feeling apprehensive, don’t worry. There are simple ways to prepare yourself for this new and rewarding challenge.
1. Prepare during practical placement
Practical training is an important part of all our courses. It’s where you’ll gain invaluable experience and get to apply your new skills and training in a real-life workplace.
But the focus is not just on skills: practical placement is also a great opportunity to develop relationships and forge connections with people in the sector. This is your chance to impress potential employers with your positive attitude, knowledge and practical capabilities. Who knows – you might even get an offer of future employment then and there!
2. Take on a traineeship
Traineeships are another smart way to prepare for work. Like placements, taking on a traineeship can help you secure employment outcomes for the future, whether in terms of developing your capabilities or establishing contacts and connections in the sector. Some trainees even stay on with their employer after their traineeship finishes.
But the best thing about a traineeship? You’ll be working straight away, with the added bonus of being able to earn while you learn.
3. Talk with your trainer
During your course you’ll be paired with a dedicated trainer. Your trainer is your first point of call when it comes to discussing employment opportunities, hopes, dreams and even anxieties. The most important thing is that your trainer knows you – they’ve seen you grow, learn and develop into the capable future worker that you are. They might know of vacancies in the sector and may even be willing to become a reference for you in your job search.
4. Refresh your CV
Getting qualified is one thing – talking about your skills and attributes is another! Many of us feel uncomfortable speaking about our best qualities, which is why it’s important to have an appropriate resume and cover letter. These documents showcase what you’re all about and why you’ll be perfect for the job.
Knowing how to write a good resume is an art, but thankfully it’s one everyone can learn. Our Learner Success Team can help you with skills, resources and tips so that you can get it just right.
5. Make the most of our learner supports
You may think that finding your dream job only happens once you graduate, but in reality the process and preparation begins much earlier. At Selmar we’re invested in positive employment outcomes for our learners, so while it’s up to you to do your own applications and research, we can help boost your employment opportunities in several ways.
Our Learner Success Team can work with you during your job search to connect you with helpful resources, provide resume support and discuss employment opportunities.
Your dedicated Trainers are here for one-on-one conversations and advice about all things aged care and early childhood education and care.
And no matter what stage you’re at with practical placement, our experienced Practical Placement Coordinator is here to help you get prepared, to debrief and discuss your experience of the workplace, and to provide tailored support in connecting you with potential employers.
Quality training for in-demand employees
Undertaking aged care training or early childhood education training with a quality provider like Selmar is the surest way to enhance your employment prospects. We provide industry-led training that is relevant, exciting and up to date so that you can shine from the minute you enter the sector.
Employers trust Selmar
Our longstanding reputation in the sector means that many employers trust that Selmar graduates make great employees.
Creating job ready graduates is something we’re really proud of. If you have questions, get in touch. It’s never too early to get ahead on your employment journey.