Inspiring pathways. Building real-world experience.
Work Experience at Balmoral State High School gives students the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and explore future career pathways in a real-world environment. This program is designed to help students make informed decisions about their future while building confidence, independence, and professional skills.
Program Overview
Our Work Experience program runs in in Term 2 and is completed across three key stages:
Stage 1: Career Destination Planning
Students begin by identifying potential career pathways through their Connect Careers program.
This stage helps students:
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Understand their interests, strengths, and goals
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Explore potential industries and job roles
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Research study pathways and entry requirements
Helpful resources include:
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myfuture (career planning tools)
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QTAC course guides
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Government career websites
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SEEK career advice and industry insights
Stage 2: Researching Employers & Finding a Host
Students take ownership of their journey by identifying potential workplaces aligned with their career goals.
What students should do:
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Research local businesses and organisations
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Think long-term: “Where would I apply in 3–7 years?”
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Use tools like Google Maps to find nearby employers
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Build a shortlist of potential hosts
Information to collect:
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Company name
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Address
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Phone number
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Reason for interest
The Power of Networking
A key focus of this stage is learning the importance of networking.
Students are encouraged to:
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Speak with family, friends, and community members
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Attend local events or activities
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Connect with mentors or industry professionals
Why it matters:
Many career opportunities come from connections. A single conversation can lead to:
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Work experience placements
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Job opportunities
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Valuable industry insights
Stage 3: Contacting Employers
This is where students step out of their comfort zone and develop real-world communication skills.
Making First Contact
Students may contact employers:
This is known as a “cold call”—and it’s completely normal to feel nervous.
Before You Make Contact
Students should be prepared with:
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The organisation’s name and contact details
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A clear understanding of what they’re asking
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Their availability (22–26 June 2026)
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A pen and paper to take notes
What to Expect: The “Game of Numbers”
Not every employer will say yes—and that’s okay.
Students are encouraged to:
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Stay positive and persistent
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Learn from each interaction
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Keep trying—each “no” gets you closer to a “yes”
This process builds:
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Confidence
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Resilience
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Communication skills
Suggested Call Structure
Students can use this simple structure when contacting employers:
Introduction:
Reason for calling:
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Explain the Work Experience program
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Share your career interest
Call to action:
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Ask if they’re open to hosting
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Offer for the school to provide more information
Conclusion:
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Thank them for their time
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Confirm next steps
After Securing a Placement
Once a student has found a host employer:
Next Steps
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Submit host details to the school
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Formal documentation will be prepared
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Placement will be confirmed for Week 10
Information Required:
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Host company name and address
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Contact person and job title
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Phone number and email
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Student and parent/carer approval
Parent & Carer Support
Parent/carer involvement is essential to the success of the program.
Families are asked to:
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Approve participation
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Support travel arrangements
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Encourage students throughout the process
Why Work Experience Matters
Work Experience is more than just a week away from school—it’s a powerful step toward the future.
Students gain:
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Insight into real workplaces
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A clearer understanding of career pathways
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Confidence in professional environments
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Communication and networking skills
Key Takeaway
Work Experience is about taking initiative, building connections, and exploring possibilities.
The earlier students start developing these skills, the more prepared they will be for life beyond school.