Do You Really Know All Your Options After School?
School’s wrapping up. You’re about to hand in your last assignment, finish exams and finally breathe. But then comes the big question everyone’s asking:
“So… what are you doing next year?”
If your answer is a nervous laugh and a shrug, well you’re not alone. Thousands of Year 12 students across Australia are feeling the same way. The good news? You’ve got more options than ever before.
Because right now, the world of work is changing and it’s changing fast.
The truth: uni isn’t the golden ticket it used to be
There was a time when going to uni was the obvious next step. But things have shifted. More employers are realising that a degree doesn’t always equal job-ready skills.
A recent SEEK study found that 70% of employers now care more about your real-world experience than your qualification. And with tuition fees climbing, many young people are rethinking whether years of study (and a HECS debt) are really worth it.
Employers today want people who can do things — who’ve worked, problem-solved, and learned on the job.
That’s where traineeships come in.
What’s a traineeship and why they’re blowing up right now
A traineeship is hands-on training in a real job where you earn money, gain experience, and get a nationally recognised qualification... for free.
It’s not about sitting in lectures or writing essays. It’s about learning by doing. You’re in a real workplace, developing skills that actually matter, and setting yourself up for a future career,all while getting paid.
Our organisation helps young people skip the guesswork and jump straight into meaningful, paid work. We connect school leavers with employers who want fresh talent and provide a Career Coach to guide you every step of the way, from your first day to your next big opportunity.
Because finishing school is a huge milestone and your next step should feel exciting, not overwhelming.
Why school leavers are choosing traineeships over uni
Here’s why more young Australians are choosing this path:
You earn while you learn — no waiting years to start making money.
You graduate debt-free — your qualification is paid for.
You build real skills that employers are crying out for.
You get job security in industries that are in demand and are growing fast.
You make an impact every day, doing work that helps people.
The care and education sectors are booming
With Australia’s ageing population and growing need for educators and care workers, these industries are full of opportunity. That means real career paths, steady work, and a chance to make a difference.
Whether you want to support older Australians, help children learn, support someone with a disability or make an impact in your community... a traineeship is your launchpad.
Y Careers trainees earn, learn, and grow into confident professionals with real career options and a support team behind them.
The future belongs to doers
University might be right for some, but it’s no longer the only (or even the best) option. The future of work is all about skills, experience, and initiative.
If you’re ready to start your career now, skip the debt, and build a life that actually excites you; a traineeship might just be your smartest move yet.
Explore current traineeships and start your journey today at Y Careers.
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