That’s one of the tips that will be provided for current and prospective students and their parents at a subject selection night at St Paul’s Catholic College, in Booragul, on Monday night, June 18.

Leader of pedagogy Vocational Education Training (VET) and careers at the school, Craig McLoughlin, said parents of year 10 students should have an open mind about the possibilities for their children.

“Even if at this stage you don’t think a university career is on the cards for your child, it’s important for kids to give themselves as many future options as possible,” he said.

“Today’s year 10 students will quite possibly have several careers over their working lives, including job descriptions that may not even exist yet.

“Your first consideration is to encourage your child to choose subjects that emphasise their strengths and interests. These include courses such as VET and external VET that can be delivered both on and off campus.”

In choosing their subjects for years 11 and 12, students should: identify their end goal; consider their abilities and interests; explore career opportunities; and research their study options, he said.

“Your aim is to attain the best HSC result you can. So, you should choose courses that you are good at, interested in and may use in the future,” Mr McLoughlin said.

At the information evening, each faculty will provide a short presentation regarding their courses, and parents can ask questions. A booklet containing course information will be distributed to each family.

Key HSC course information such as the required number of units, subject packaging, tertiary requirements and VET options will be discussed.

Teachers from all faculty groups will then present separate information sessions on specific subject areas. These will total around 50 areas of study.

The event will be held at the school hall and Damascus Centre from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

Phone 4958 6711 for more information.