What’s Next After Year 12? Exploring Your Options!
Year 12 is a big milestone, and as it comes to an end, many young people are left wondering, What’s next?
Whether you’ve got a clear vision of your future or you’re still figuring it out, there’s no shortage of paths to choose from. It can be overwhelming, but remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Your next steps should align with your personal goals, interests, and where you see yourself in the future. So, let’s break down some of the most common options after Year 12—there’s something for everyone!
🛠 Traineeships: Learn While You Earn
A traineeship is a great option if you’re ready to dive straight into the workforce and start building your career with practical experience. It’s a hands-on learning experience that allows you to earn money while working toward a nationally recognised qualification.
Traineeships are typically completed over 1-2 years and offer a combination of on-the-job training, online and classroom learning. Not only does this give you an advantage in the job market, but it also means you’re developing skills that employers are looking for.
According to a report by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), many Australian employers prefer on-the-job skills, particularly for entry-level and middle-skill roles, over formal educational credentials!
Plus, with a traineeship, you’re job-ready much faster than other pathways. Many trainees are offered permanent positions with their employers once they finish their training. So, if you’re keen to start earning and gaining practical skills quickly, a traineeship might be your best bet.
In a Y Careers traineeship, you get to study for FREE. That means no HECs debt! Plus, we pay you a great wage! You also get to earn mico-credentials- a collection of professional skills for career advancement. This gives you the upper hand in a competitive job market and provides you with various skills that allow you to transfer to multiple industries!
Key Benefits of a Traineeship:
Earn money while you learn
Gain hands-on experience
Get a qualification without a huge time commitment
Fast track your career and be job-ready
No exams required!
📚 University Life: For Those Who Want to Dive Deep into Study
For some, university is the dream. If you’re passionate about a particular subject and ready to immerse yourself in years of study, uni can be a rewarding option.
It’s a long-term commitment, typically involving 3-4 years of study (or more, depending on the degree), but the rewards are often worth it—especially in fields like law, medicine, or engineering.
However, university isn’t just about academics. It’s also about personal growth, networking, and discovering what you truly want to do. If you're unsure whether university is right for you, know that it’s a huge commitment, both financially and emotionally.
In Australia, around 20% of domestic students who enrolled in higher education defer or drop out in their first year, with many choosing to switch to different courses —showing that it’s okay to take your time to figure out what suits you best. If you’re still unsure about university, consider completing a gap year or taking on part-time work to gain clarity before committing to such a significant decision.
Key Benefits of University:
In-depth knowledge in your chosen field
Access to university networks and opportunities
Long-term career prospects, especially in specialised fields
✈️ Gap Year: Take a Break to Recharge
If you’re feeling a bit burnt out after all the pressure of Year 12, a gap year might be exactly what you need.
Taking time off can give you the chance to reset, recharge, and explore different paths—whether that’s through travel, volunteering, or working part-time.
Some young people use this time to figure out what they truly want to do, while others take it to broaden their horizons and gain life experience.
Studies show that taking a gap year can have lasting benefits. Research from the University of Sydney found that students who took a gap year reported higher levels of satisfaction with their studies and career paths.
Whether it’s backpacking overseas, working in a different industry, or pursuing a hobby, a gap year can offer you the space to decide your next move.
Key Benefits of a Gap Year:
Time to explore personal interests or travel
Gain experience that could be valuable for future jobs
A chance to relax and gain perspective before making big decisions
Still want to earn and learn on your gap year? A traineeship is a great option! To learn more about the traineeships we offer at Y Careers, click here.
💼 Internships or Part-Time Work: Dip Your Toes into Different Industries
Not everyone knows exactly what they want to do after Year 12, and that’s okay! Internships or part-time work can provide the perfect opportunity to try out different industries and career paths before committing to anything long-term.
Internships are often short-term, hands-on roles that allow you to gain experience, learn new skills, and expand your network.
Even if you’re not looking for a permanent role just yet, part-time work can help you gain valuable skills that employers want, like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Key Benefits of an Internship/Part-Time Work:
Explore different industries without committing long-term
Gain valuable work experience and skills
Expand your professional network
What’s Right for You?
The options after Year 12 are varied, and what works for one person might not be right for someone else. Whether you’re diving straight into a traineeship, heading to university, taking a gap year, or dipping your toes into internships or part-time work, it’s all about what will help you grow and find your passion.
Take your time to research and reflect on what you enjoy and where you see yourself in the future. Keep in mind, there’s no rush to figure everything out right away. The best thing you can do is explore, gain experience, and keep an open mind to new opportunities.
Ready to Start Your Career?
If you’re looking to get a head start, why not head to our jobs board? Here you can explore job opportunities and register your interest in roles that align with your skills and interests!
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