Chatham High School hosted Taree and District Careers and Future Options Expo

Major universities from throughout the State, southern Queensland and the ACT were joined by a range of vocational colleges and course opportunities to provide students with the necessary information to further their studies.

Taree High School careers adviser Glen Bowman said the expo helped make the transition process to higher education and the workforce smoother.

“The depth and the width of providers is critically important because it’s not just a university focused event, it’s for everybody,” Mr Bowman said.

“It’s a big process for families and students and making the right decision is critically important.

“It allows them to manage their transition from school, whether they are staying locally for work or they’re moving away for tertiary education.”

University of New England’s Zoe James said agriculture and medicine were some of the more popular courses mentioned by students, while Charles Sturt University spokesman Michael Ashworth said the lure of a locally based university (Port Macquarie) gave students the option of completing tertiary education without having to move far from home.

Other attractions included the Lions Youth Exchange program booth, which provided information for students who may choose to travel overseas as an alternative to Schoolies celebrations or an option for a gap year. 

The Australian Defence Force and NSW Police set-ups proved among the most popular of the expo, with up to 20 students lining up at any time.

Chatham High School Year 11 student Stanley Tan said he would look into a career in policing or defence force. 

He noted  the expo provided an understanding as to what school subjects he would need to complete in order to extend his education.

Taree High School student Dane Zuiderwyk added a career in the defence force or business could be in his future.