Explore all the options.

What do you want to be when you grow up? It’s a heavy question to ask a young person, especially since many adults don’t even know themselves. Often, we just fall into jobs because it’s what we know or what we studied, or perhaps because it’s what our parents or teachers said we should do. 

The end of high school can be a challenging time for students as they figure out their next steps. Negative perceptions surrounding vocational education and training (VET) have also steered many students towards more academic and university pathways. Without adding fuel to the VET vs university debate, because there is a place for both pathways, we need to educate people of influence (e.g., teachers and parents), to help students make more informed decisions about their futures.

We’re all different, which is why we need to find our own path. Some of us are creative, some like numbers, others don’t like the thought of being stuck behind a desk. That’s why it’s important that we explore ALL the options available when deciding on our career and study options.

VET courses in schools and school-based apprenticeships /traineeships are great options for those who want exposure to a particular career path. Apprenticeships and traineeships are ideal pathways for people attracted to a hands-on learning style, while still working towards a qualification.

But VET isn’t just for those starting out in their careers; it can be a good transition for people re-entering the workforce. For those looking to upskill or reskill, VET can provide real skills that are in demand by employers now or within emerging industries. Alternatively, you can opt for short, accredited courses or micro credentials to get a taste of a new career before making a long-term commitment to additional training. Whatever stage of life you are at, the opportunities with VET are endless.

So whatever you choose to do; whether it’s doing an apprenticeship or traineeship, completing a university degree, getting a job, travelling or even trying a working gap year, just make sure you ‘explore all the options’. Know what makes you tick, figure out your strengths, and find what you love. And if circumstances change as you get older, you can always try something new.

‘Explore ALL your options’ is the theme for National Skills Week in 2025. For more information visit their website here.