Travelling or taking a gap year
Life after school
Leaving school is exciting but also confusing if you’re not sure what you want to do next. Don’t worry - we’re here to help!
Dealing with the end of school is different for everyone
It might be scary, exciting, confusing or all of these things!
- You’ll probably be asked lots of questions about what you’ll do next
- Lots of questions can be annoying or make you feel pressured if you don’t have a clear idea of what you want to do
- There’s no right or wrong decision and you can always change your mind
- A lot of young people we talk to don’t know what they want and that’s ok too
It’s a good time to think about things you enjoyed doing at school or what you find interesting or fun. This can guide your choices about what to do next.
Looking at your options
Avoid focusing on ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ choices. Instead, think about all the things you could do and how different options make you feel. You’ll be drawn to some options and not others.
Below are some common options but you can probably think of many more!
Studying at TAFE, college or at an institute
Studying at University
Working
Volunteering
Doing another year of high school
You’re thinking about further study
A lot of young people think about going to TAFE, Uni or doing some kind of training course. Here are some things to help you take that first step:
Identify areas you’d like to learn more about or jobs you’d be interested in trying
Research different types of courses in your area of interest
Visit the place you’re thinking of studying at or talk to someone who goes there
Attend orientation or open days where you can ask questions
Look at the cost of the course and your eligibility for benefits from Centrelink
Find out who can help you on campus eg. counselling and health services and academic support
You want to get a job and start working
Sometimes young people decide that working and earning an income is the most important thing for them after leaving school.
If you’d like to get a job after leaving school, there are a few things you can do:
- Think about jobs or trades that you’d like to try
- Learn about different kinds of organisations you’d like to work for
- Make a list of your skills, what you’re good at and work experience
- Learn how to write a resume and have someone check it over
- Practice answering questions for an interview
Try and remember that the first job you’re offered may not be the job you ultimately want. And that’s ok! Just remind yourself that:
- Trying different jobs gives you valuable work experience
- Your first job may be a stepping stone to something else
You don’t need to decide what you’re doing forever, just what you’re doing next! - April, Kids Helpline Counsellor
If you’re still unsure…
Speaking to a careers counsellor or talking with friends can help you figure out the next step.
No matter if you’re finishing school now or in a couple of years… whatever stage you’re at we’re here to help!
This content was last reviewed 13/07/2018
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