Empowering Student Futures – The Impact of the Parent Council Grant

November 14, 2024

Ahead of proposals being put forward to our parent community for the 2025 Parent Council funding, Leana Martin, Head of Careers & Transition and recipient of a 2024 grant, has demonstrated how impactful this support can be. Thanks to this, Leana attended the Careers Conference in Melbourne, which opened doors to new insights and initiatives. We caught up with Leana this week to find out more.

How did you utilise the funding provided by the Parent Council Grant?

The Parent Council grant allowed me to attend the annual two-day Careers Conference in Melbourne, a key opportunity for professional growth and insight. I also toured major universities including the University of Melbourne, Monash University, RMIT, and the White House Institute, exploring campuses and residential colleges. A standout moment was reconnecting with Chloe Tong, a former Santa Maria student now studying Medicine at Monash, which provided real-world insights to share with current students.

Can you share some highlights from the conference and keynote speakers who inspired you most?

One of the most inspiring sessions was with Dr Jim Bright, who presented on his Chaos Theory of career development. This theory challenges the traditional linear model of career planning, highlighting how careers are often shaped by unpredictable events and complex influences. Dr Bright’s emphasis on adaptability and embracing change reinforced the importance of schools supporting students through flexible career planning and resilience-building. He stressed tools such as scenario planning, fostering curiosity, and self-reflection to help students see career shifts as opportunities for growth.

What positive impacts did your attendance at this conference have for Santa Maria College?

The conference theme, ‘Trends, Transitions, and Transformation,’ provided fresh insights into current career trends and future-ready skills. This knowledge ensures our students receive guidance that reflects the modern job market. I returned with updated resources and strategies that support student career development, focusing on preparing them for both current opportunities and future uncertainties.

What new ideas or initiatives do you plan to introduce at Santa Maria as a result?

Inspired by the insights from the conference, I am designing a new Year 10 Career Education Program that prioritises resilience, adaptability, and proactive career planning. The program will include a capstone project where students become their own career advisors, equipping them with practical skills and confidence. Additionally, my visits to Melbourne universities have enriched my understanding of different pathways and scholarships, enhancing the advice I can provide to students interested in studying and living in these institutions.

How has this conference contributed to your professional growth and development?

The experience significantly deepened my knowledge of modern career theories, including Dr Bright’s Chaos Theory and Dr Paul Hartung’s Narrative Career Theory. This has refined my approach to career counselling, focusing on flexibility and resilience. Networking with other career educators and experts also expanded my professional connections and offered new perspectives on effective career guidance practices.

What insights did you gain that you believe will most benefit the students at Santa Maria?

One key insight is fostering a mindset that views career setbacks as growth opportunities. This approach can help reduce students’ anxiety around career planning and inspire them to take initiative and adapt. Building transferable skills will prepare them for various roles as the job market evolves. The Year 10 Careers Education Program will empower students to explore different career paths confidently and develop a more flexible, adaptable approach. By encouraging exploration and providing experiences like internships, we prepare our students to thrive in a dynamic professional world.

Leana’s participation in the Careers Conference has paved the way for innovative programs that will inspire students to face their future careers with confidence and adaptability. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Parent Council for providing this invaluable support, which has made this opportunity possible.

CareerEducation, CareerResilience, careers, Featured, ParentCouncil, StaffSpotlight, StudentEmpowerment

Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.