Embracing alternative pathways to dream careers

Lara Everingham, a 17-year-old former student of Australian Trade College North Brisbane (ATCNB), is well on her way to achieving her dream career in nursing, all without an ATAR.

Lara was among the thousands of students who secured early entry into the University of the Sunshine Coast’s (UniSC) Bachelor of Nursing program after completing Year 12 at ATCNB (part of the IntoWork Group), a senior high school that integrates the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) curriculum with trade training and apprenticeship services.

Struggling at a traditional high school, Lara initially faced scepticism from her parents about attending a trade school. However, she was determined to explore an alternative educational pathway, “I was having a lot of troubles with normal school. It was just a lot of pressure, and I wanted to focus on what I really wanted to do without having to do subjects that wouldn’t benefit me in the future,” she said.

In Year 11, Lara completed the Cert III in Individual Support with Mater Education, gaining invaluable hands-on work experience. “This was a game-changer. It wasn’t just theory; I got to work in a real workplace environment, which prepared me well for my future career,” she said.

This experience led Lara to join the UniSC Head Start program in Year 12 while balancing part-time work at BallyCara Aged Care and completing her remaining Year 12 Math, English and Certificate III Business subjects. “It was incredibly busy but I was motivated. I felt like I was getting a head start on everyone else, and I was determined to prove the doubters wrong,” she said.

Her hard work paid off when she received her early entry offer for the Bachelor of Nursing program at UniSC. “I felt incredibly excited and proud. It was a huge relief after all the hard work and the doubts from others,” she said.

“I’ve always wanted to help people. When I got the chance to start early, I was thrilled,” she said.

Lara encourages other students to consider alternative pathways. “Things have changed, and there are so many options available. The learning environment is less stressful on mental health and offers flexibility.”

Trade schools like ATCNB (part of the IntoWork Group) are crucial in addressing Australia’s growing skills shortage. While many schools prioritise ATAR, the country relies heavily on vocationally qualified workers. From 2011 to 2021, the number of Australians with a university degree increased by almost 70 per cent, while vocational qualifications rose by only 25 per cent.

This imbalance has led to significant skills shortages across various industries, with 33 per cent of all occupations currently in shortage¹.

ATAR, while important for some pathways, is not the only measure of educational success. ATCNB Principal Brett Kavanagh emphasises the need for a more balanced approach to education. Acknowledging alternative pathways provide students with practical skills and real-world experience.

“As the next generation of workers returns to the classroom, it’s crucial to promote skills development. Australia needs skilled workers to build homes, care for our population, and modernise our infrastructure,” he said.

Lara faced skepticism and challenges, particularly the lack of support from some people, including family members, as she pursued alternative education. However, the teachers at ATCNB were incredibly understanding and provided the extra support she needed.

Her Guidance Officer and Senior Career Counsellor Leah Pollock-Grant played a pivotal role in her success. “The teachers at ATCNB were very understanding and realistic. They helped us transition from school to university and offered additional sessions to prepare us for the nursing program,” she noted.

Lara’s mother, Melissa Everingham, is now a strong advocate for trade schools. “When Lara wanted to leave her private school to move to a trade school, I was hesitant. But she has grown so much, both personally and professionally. She secured a fulfilling job at BallyCara and has become an amazing young woman. I now realise there are multiple paths to success,” she said.

For sceptical parents, Lara stresses the importance of being open to new educational routes. “Initially, only one of my parents supported my decision to switch to a trade school. But I proved to both of them that it was the best choice for me,” she said.

Looking ahead, Lara plans to work as a registered nurse and gain practical experience. “Once I complete my RN, I might work in a hospital for a while and then consider specialisations like midwifery or emergency nursing,” she said.

1 https://thenightly.com.au/opinion/sussan-ley-smart-kids-go-to-uni-the-rest-do-a-trade-this-outdated-thinking-is-holding-australia-back-c-17312597