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A local conference has inspired young Aboriginal students to explore a variety of educational pathways and study options.

Students from St Pauls, Marcellin Technical College, Blackfriars, Kildare and Loreto were among 140 students who participated in the 2017 SACE Aboriginal Student Pathways conference this week.

The conference is for Year 10-12 students and explored the theme Respect Your Place: Value Our Future.

The conference is an important way for secondary schools, universities and TAFE to engage with students and families and support young Aboriginal people plan their career and study pathways.  

Chief Executive of the SACE Board Dr Neil McGoran said “The Aboriginal Student Pathways Conference aims to develop the strengths and capabilities of young Aboriginal students in the SACE, and supports students to position themselves for the future, and for careers in an ever-changing world.”

Participants had the opportunity to explore different career paths including paramedics, nanotechnology, game development, and visual effects and design.

“There were a lot of guest speakers who came in. When they spoke about never under-estimating yourself … that was really inspiring,” says Narsheka-Sian Jones, a student at Loreto College.

Fellow student, Josie Ager Mcconnell, also found the day beneficial.

“I’ve always been interested in uni and education. It is really good to hear how your passions can relate to your degree and your career. A lot of the time I have trouble connecting the two … It was really beneficial to me.”

Emma Searle, Careers and VET Key Teacher at Loreto College, says the conference is one of her favourite careers events.

“Career goal setting is more than an individual responsibility when working with Aboriginal students. Input from family and community members is critical and an integral part of the counselling process,” she explains.

“The conference allows our girls to explore connections, to tell career/life stories, to search for family patterns, to examine their values and understand the great importance of communal values.”

Gabrielle Rigney, Indigenous Focus Teacher at Kildare College agrees.

“The SACE Aboriginal Students Pathway Conference was a wonderful opportunity for our students to listen to other Aboriginal university students talk about their experiences both at school and at university. 

“Interacting in courses that are offered at Flinders University, such as Paramedics and Nanotechnology, allowed the students to gain insight into the facilities and opportunities available to them after school.”

Catholic Education South Australia is pleased to work in partnership with organisations such as the SACE Board to help Aboriginal students investigate career goals and set their aspirations for the future.

In 2016, a record number of Aboriginal students successfully completed their South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).