Like everyone else, students lead busy lives; so the idea of fitting volunteering into your jam-packed schedule can be tricky. But evidence shows time spent volunteering has many benefits – not just for the people being helped, but the volunteer themselves too. So what are some of the main benefits of volunteering for students? Let’s take a look.

Learn about a career you’re considering

Work experience can sometimes be hard to find, and can also feel like it lacks a sense of real responsibility or experience. Conversely, volunteering opportunities can be easier to find and allow you to test-drive potential careers without the commitment of a proper job.

For example, if you choose to volunteer in an aged care facility, it might be because you’re considering a job in health or social work. If you volunteer for Landcare, you might be interested in careers where you can work outside, such as landscaping, agriculture, or even environmental science.

Time spent volunteering provides real-world first-hand experience of the industry, and could help spark your interest (or rule out unsuitable careers). Unlike work experience, you can volunteer over many weeks, months, or even years and build up a solid bank of experience – this can give you more certainty when choosing a career down the track.

Find something you’re passionate about

Regardless of the benefits, volunteering is still a big commitment and requires you to willingly give up your precious time. So it’s important that you feel strongly enough about the cause to really want to make a difference, rather than just doing it because it looks good on your resume.

Being truly passionate about something helps you gain more from the experience. And connecting your passion to your career can also help you feel more fulfilled and happy in your day-to-day work.

If you aren’t sure how to find volunteering opportunities that align with your interests, ask yourself some questions like these to kick-start the process:

• What do you enjoy doing?
• What causes are important to you?
• Do you want work with children or animals?
• Do you mind getting your hands dirty?
• Would you like to be part of a team or do you prefer to work alone?
• What skills do you have to bring to a volunteer role?
• What skills are you interested in developing?

Develop important workplace skills

Unlike school, sport, or other extra-curricular activities, volunteering placements are usually run more like traditional workplaces. You’re expected to turn up on time, take instructions from people who are not educators, and achieve set goals.

Volunteering gives you the opportunity to build communication and teamwork skills in a work-like environment. You’ll need to listen to instructions, potentially deal with clients or customers, and work alongside other volunteers. This level of accountability is difficult to replicate within the more sheltered school environment.

Volunteering placements that take place on a regular basis could also lead to you advancing in your role, and you could even become responsible for training new volunteers.

All of the skills you develop while volunteering will be useful in the workplace. Additionally, you can confidently add them to your resume knowing you have real evidence to back up your claims. This makes it a win-win for you and your potential new boss – employers usually regard volunteering experience very highly.

Build an understanding of the world (and yourself) outside of school

Volunteering often allows you to come face-to-face with existing problems and needs within the community. It can also help you develop an appreciation for your own opportunities and circumstances. Spending time in the community, gaining first-hand experience of the issues that affect people around you, can be truly character-building.

Unlike school, many volunteering roles often allow you to test-drive multiple different tasks and types of work. This way you can find which ones resonate with you the most.

For example, if you volunteer with a homeless charity, you may find you prefer to spend time talking to clients and providing that much-needed human interaction. Alternatively, you may find your strengths lie in sourcing food and goods to supply to clients, or in caring for their animals, or in handling the social media for the volunteer group.

Learning that multiple solutions and roles are required within a single workplace could expand your understanding of the world of work and yourself.

Access networking opportunities

It’s no accident that the most exclusive university scholarships offer integrated networking opportunities as part of the package. We often find ourselves relying on our networks, particularly in the professional world.

Understanding the importance of networking and knowing how to develop connections early on means you can use your networks for everything, from securing part-time work to finding internships, sourcing referrals, and even finding new clients down the track.

Your time spent volunteering will also allow you to meet people who could one day be the key to finding your next position or opportunity. 

The benefits aren’t limited to your career

Volunteering also comes with several benefits for students outside of job finding and skill building. It could help you:

• Feel more confident
• Raise your self-esteem
• Find purpose and meaning
• Know you are a part of something important
• Improve your physical and mental health

It’s important to remember that you get the most benefits from volunteering when you’re doing it for the right reasons. You’ll find it much more fulfilling and rewarding if you’re truly doing it for others, not just for yourself.

Find out more

There are heaps of benefits to volunteering for students – it can help you gain valuable skills and experience, and learn more about yourself as a person and your place in the world. If you want to read more, we have lots of other ideas and tips to spark your interest on our website here.

Thinking about applying for a scholarship but feeling overwhelmed by all the different types out there? Don’t worry – we’re here to help break it down for you. Whether you’re a straight-A student, someone who loves helping in their community, or you just need some financial support to achieve your dreams, there’s probably a scholarship out there for you.

Why should I apply for scholarships?

Receiving a scholarship can make a huge difference to your future. Here’s why they’re worth checking out:

• They can help pay for your education costs (like textbooks, fees, or even living expenses)
• They look great on your resume and university applications
• They can open doors to special opportunities and programs
• You don’t have to pay the money back (unlike student loans)

What types of scholarships are out there?

Let’s look at some common types of scholarships you might come across:

Academic scholarships

These scholarships are all about your grades and academic achievements. If you work hard at school and get good results, these could be perfect for you. Most universities offer academic scholarships, but you might find them from other places too.

Financial need scholarships

These scholarships are designed to help students who might struggle to afford their studies otherwise. You’ll usually need to provide some information about your financial situation when you apply.

Talent-based scholarships

Good at sports? Love art? Amazing at public speaking? There are scholarships out there for all sorts of talents. In most cases you’ll need to provide evidence of your achievements, like competition results or a portfolio of your work.

Community service scholarships

If you spend time volunteering or helping out in your community, these scholarships could be for you. They’re looking for students who are committed to making a difference, whether it’s in your local area or across the world.

Special interest scholarships

These scholarships are super specific – they might be for students studying certain subjects, from particular backgrounds, or with specific career goals in mind.

Tips for applying

Here are some quick tips to help you put together a great scholarship application:

• Start early – scholarships often have different deadlines throughout the year
• Double-check all the requirements before you apply
• Ask someone else to read over your application before you submit it
• Keep copies of everything you submit
• Don’t give up if you don’t get the first one you apply for

Want to know more?

Ready to start your scholarship search? You can find current opportunities on our scholarships database.

If you still need a bit more advice, you might like to check out some of our other blogs and resources.

Thinking of taking a year off after school before starting the next chapter of your life? That doesn’t mean you can’t still do something meaningful with your time. And there isn’t much more fulfilling than helping to save the planet. If you want to put your mind or body to work building a more sustainable future, you might like to check out these green gap year ideas for some inspiration.

Why take a green gap year?

Aside from all the other benefits of gap years, green gap years have heaps of other advantages too, including:

• Building important green skills, which will be valuable in lots of different careers in the future.
• Participating in real projects that are actively making a difference.
• Experiencing how different cultures and communities are solving issues such as climate change.
• Providing inspiration and ideas for potential future green careers.

Green gap year ideas

If you’re thinking of taking a gap year but don’t quite know what you want to do, here are some ideas you might like to check out:

Take a course with CERES

The CERES School of Nature and Climate runs a variety of courses covering all kinds of topics – all with a focus on nature and sustainability. From cooking and gardening to cheese making and leadership, there’s bound to be something that interests you.

You can see the full list of courses on offer here.

GVI’s Planet and People Programs

GVI is a gap year company that specialises in volunteer, travel, and work experiences that revolve around nature conversation and community development. Whether you want to help conserve threatened and endangered species or improve the resilience of ecosystems like rainforests and reefs, there’s a program for everyone. They even offer professional apprenticeship programs for people looking to further develop their skills and knowledge.

Learn more about the programs on offer here.

New GAP Year

This program encourages young people to head out to regional and rural areas of Australia and participate in harvest and farm work. You’ll learn tons of skills and get practical experience in agriculture and environment, all while being paid and enjoying some time to explore as well. They even offer special online training modules to help you prepare for the perfect gap year job.

Find the perfect gap year job or brush up on your skills here.

Raleigh Expedition

Raleigh International offers a gap year program for 17–24-year-olds, combining community development and environmental projects with an adventure leadership trek. It’s not for the faint of heart, but you’ll be contributing towards meaningful projects, learning all about nature and conservation, and building important skills with other volunteers from around the world.

Read more about the program here.

The Leap’s Marine Gap Year Programme

Learn to dive and contribute to reef regeneration projects in Costa Rica in this gap year program with The Leap. Not only will you be closely involved with a charity working on real conservation projects, you’ll also learn how to speak Spanish and participate in other fun adventure activities too.

See the full program details here.

Top tips for sustainable travel

While participating in these programs is incredibly rewarding and fun, it’s important to be mindful of the impact travel can have on the environment and local communities. No matter where you might travel on your gap year, here are some tips to make your trip more eco-friendly:

Pack light

It can be hard leaving your valuables behind, but before you take off, think about what you’ll really need and only pack the essentials. Not only will your luggage be easier to carry, it also reduces carbon emissions.

Take advantage of reusables

This includes things like bottles and cups, cutlery, carry bags, and refillable soap and shampoo bottles.

Save energy

When you’re not in your hotel or lodgings, turn off lights, fans, and air-conditioners. Avoid replacing towels and sheets unless it’s necessary.

Watch how you get around

If possible, take advantage of public transport options, or even consider walking or cycling (a great way to sneak in some exercise while you’re abroad).

Be respectful

When exploring natural areas, don’t disturb or touch any wildlife. Things like shells, flowers, and other flora might seem like nice souvenirs, but it’s best to leave as much as you can untouched – many countries have strict rules on exporting and importing these sorts of things anyway because of the biosecurity risk.

Support local communities

Eat at local restaurants and shop at local stores instead of international chains or franchises. This will reduce the impact of importing goods and support the local economy.

Find out more

Curious to explore more gap year options? You can read more about gap years on our website here.

The holidays are finally here, and while it might be tempting to spend the entire break glued to your phone or binge-watching your favourite shows, taking care of yourself during this time is super important. Let’s explore some ways to look after yourself over the holidays so you can start 2025 feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.

Rest and recharge

Getting enough sleep during the holidays isn’t just about staying in bed all day (although that can be nice sometimes!). Try to establish a regular sleep schedule, even during the break, and aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night. Avoiding screens right before bedtime and creating a relaxing routine can help you drift off more easily. Good sleep helps improve your mood, concentration, and energy levels – all things you’ll need when school starts back up again.

Stay active (but make it fun)

Nobody’s saying you need to hit the gym every day, but keeping active can help you feel better both physically and mentally. You could take a walk with friends or the family dog, go for a bike ride, or just have a dance party in your room. Even 30 minutes of movement each day can make a big difference to how you feel.

Fuel your body right

The holidays are definitely a time for treats and special meals, and that’s totally fine! Just try to maintain some balance by starting your day with a healthy breakfast and keeping some nutritious snacks handy. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water too – it’s easy to forget when you’re out of your normal routine.

Try something new

The break is the perfect time to explore new interests or pick up a new skill. Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn to cook, start a creative project, or try learning a new language. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself – it’s about having fun and discovering what you enjoy. Here are some suggestions:

• Learn to code
• Learn to cook a new recipe
• Start a creative project
• Try learning a new language
• Pick up an instrument

Give back to others

Making a difference in someone else’s life can help you feel good too. You could volunteer at a local organisation, help elderly neighbours with tasks, or spend time supporting a cause you care about. Even small acts of kindness, like helping out more around the house or spending time with younger siblings, can make a real difference.

Make time for connection

Quality time with friends and family is super important during the holidays. Plan some catch-ups with friends, have family game nights, or go on day trips together. These moments of connection can help you feel more grounded and supported.

Find the right balance

You don’t need to schedule every minute of your break. In fact, it’s important to leave some days completely free and learn to say no to things you don’t want to do. Listen to your body when you need rest, and try to balance social time with alone time.

Get organised (but don’t stress)

If you have important commitments or things to get done over the holidays, you probably shouldn’t put them off for too long – just remember to not let it take over your break completely. Here are our tips for finding the right balance:

• Make a simple to-do list
• Prioritise what’s really important
• Schedule tasks for after the holidays if possible
• Break big tasks into smaller chunks

Want more tips?

Looking for more ideas on how to look after yourself and make the most of your holidays? Check out our other blogs about health and wellbeing here.

Looking back and reflecting on our experiences, achievements, and challenges from the past year helps us feel fulfilled. We can see what we found meaningful throughout the year, and start looking ahead at ways we can improve ourselves in the future. You’ve probably overcome obstacles, kicked goals, and gained new skills; even if it doesn’t feel like it.

Reflection isn’t always easy, but it can be really powerful – so let’s look at how you can take some time to reflect purposefully on your year.

Every goal counts

You might be thinking, “what if I didn’t achieve much this year?” Well, you probably did more than you think. Remember, every little thing counts, not just the really big stuff.

Maybe you finally joined a sport team. Perhaps you finished reading a novel you’ve been putting off for ages. Have you improved on your school grades from last year? Or are you just happy you made it through the year? Even though these things might seem small, they’re definitely worth celebrating.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Lao Tzu

Tips to get started on purposeful reflection

Need a bit of help looking back on your year? We’ve written some steps to help you reflect.

Set the scene

Find a space that’s nice and quiet, or somewhere you can focus without distractions. Bring something you can use to write down your thoughts, whether it’s a notebook or computer.

Review your calendar

Go through each month one at a time – it’s easier to break the year into small chunks. Use your calendar, journal, social media posts, or any notes to recall significant events, accomplishments, challenges, and emotions you experienced.

Make a note of every achievement

Writing helps solidify your thoughts and serves as a reference for the future. Remember to include all the “little” things, and try and look at achievements from lots of different aspects of your life. These could be things like:

• Academic
• Sporting
• Hobbies
• Family
• Community
• Feedback
• Overcoming loss or disappointment

Ask yourself questions

If you’re struggling to think of anything, you might find using questions as prompts useful. Here are a few examples:

• What were my biggest accomplishments this year?
• What were the most memorable things from this year?
• What challenges did I face, and how did I overcome them?
• What did I learn about myself this year?
• What do I want to improve or change in the coming year?

Find the achievements you’re most proud of

Now that you have a comprehensive list, look back and think about which achievements you’re most proud of. Which ones do you think you might still be proud of in the future…maybe even when you’re 50?

Looking forward

As you wrap up this year and prepare to step into the next, now could be the perfect time for introspection. Reflecting on your accomplishments and lessons learned can be a powerful tool in shaping a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Then it’s time to celebrate! You should feel good about what you’ve achieved – you deserve it. Embrace the opportunity to learn from the past and set the stage for a successful year ahead.

Find out more

We have heaps of other blogs on our website where you can learn more about skill building, setting goals, and much more – take a look here.

Receiving a scholarship can be a huge boost, not just to your education, but your quality of life too. It might mean you can afford better study equipment, don’t need to work as many hours, or provide you with a place to live.

While there are undoubtedly many benefits to receiving a scholarship, one common question students have is whether or not they need to pay tax on scholarships. In this article, we’ll delve into the details so you can apply with peace of mind.

First off – what is tax?

If you’re unfamiliar with the concept, tax is essentially a bit of money taken off the top of your income and earnings. That money then goes to the government, who uses it to provide public services and build new infrastructure, like hospitals, schools, and roads.

Nearly everyone who has a job will pay tax. There are minimum amounts you need to earn before you start paying tax though. And most of the time, your employer will automatically withhold tax from your pay, so you don’t need to worry about a thing.

So the real question is do scholarships count as income, and consequently, will some of it be taken as tax? Let’s find out.

In Australia

If you receive a scholarship in Australia, chances are it will most likely be considered exempt income (that is, you don’t pay tax on it). However, there are a few conditions to meet:

• You must be a full-time student. Unfortunately, part-time students must always declare scholarships as income.
• Your scholarship is not tax exempt if, as a condition of the scholarship, you work or will work in the future for the person or organisation funding the scholarship.
• The scholarship must be provided to you principally for educational purposes. If the scholarship or your course involves unpaid work experience, this still counts as educational.

If your scholarship is taxable, you must include it on your annual tax return. The ATO will then assess whether or not you will have any tax deducted from your scholarship payments.

If you have any concerns or questions, we suggest you get in touch with the scholarship provider or the ATO.

In New Zealand

In NZ, the Inland Revenue Department has said that “scholarships or bursaries for attendance at an educational institution are exempt income”. This means the scholarship can be used for things like:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation and living costs
• Books for study
• Travel to and from university
• Equipment required for study (including laptops and similar devices)

If you use any part of your scholarship to pay for items that are unrelated to your course, you will need to declare this as income. Note that scholarships are always counted as income for Student Allowance purposes.

If you have any concerns or questions, you should contact the scholarship provider or Inland Revenue.

In the UK

Payments from scholarships are generally exempt from income tax in the UK, provided:

• The scholarship holder is studying full-time; and
• They are studying at a university, college, school, or other educational establishment.

Scholarships and bursaries will not count towards your Personal Allowance (that is, the amount of money you can earn before you need to start paying tax). Standard Personal Allowance is currently £12,570 (Dec 2024) – so even if you have a job where you make £10,000 a year, plus receive a scholarship worth £5,000 a year, you won’t have to pay tax.

If you have any concerns or questions, get in touch with the scholarship provider or HM Revenue and Customs.

In Ireland

Income received from scholarships in Ireland is usually tax exempt, as long as you are:

• Receiving full-time instruction; and
• Studying at a university, school, or other educational establishment.

Note that this exemption does not apply to fellowships.

If you have any concerns or questions, talk to the scholarship provider or Revenue.

In the US

Scholarships and grants are tax-free in the US, as long as you meet the following conditions:

• You’re a candidate for a degree at an eligible educational institution; and
• The money is used to pay for:
  • Tuition and fees required for enrolment or attendance; or
  • Books, supplies, and equipment required for your course.

Scholarship money that is used to pay for “incidental expenses” (for example, accommodation, travel, and optional equipment) must be included in your income for tax purposes.

If you have any concerns or questions, contact the scholarship provider or the IRS.

In Canada

Elementary and secondary school scholarships are always tax exempt. Scholarships for post-secondary study are usually tax exempt, provided:

• You are a qualifying student;
• Studying at a designated educational institution; and
• Are enrolled in a qualifying educational program.

Even if you are a non-qualifying student, the first $500 is still considered tax exempt. For qualifying students, generally the entire scholarship amount is tax exempt.

If you have any concerns or questions, you should talk to the scholarship provider or the Canada Revenue Agency.

Ready to apply?

Keep in mind that these are all general guidelines. Whether or not you need to pay tax on scholarships will come down to your personal circumstances and the conditions of the scholarship. So if you have any doubts or concerns, make sure you talk to a professional first, whether it’s your careers advisor, someone from the university, or the tax office.

You can read more about scholarships, including application tips, on our website here.

The holidays are finally here! While it’s tempting to spend every day binge-watching your favourite shows or sleeping in until noon, there are lots of ways you can use this time to both relax and set yourself up for success next term. Don’t worry – we’re not suggesting you study 24/7. Instead, we have some ideas that can help you make the most of your holidays, striking the perfect balance between having fun and staying productive.

Start a passion project

Ever wanted to learn how to code? Or maybe you’ve been thinking about starting a YouTube channel? The holidays are the perfect time to dive into something new that interests you. Not only is it fun, but these kinds of projects can also look great on your resume or university applications later on.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Learn a new language using free apps like Duolingo
• Start a blog about something you love
• Create digital art or learn graphic design
• Make music or learn an instrument
• Cook your way through some new recipes
• Build your own website

Read what interests you

Reading doesn’t have to mean boring textbooks – try finding books, magazines, or even online articles about topics that genuinely interest you. If you’re into gaming, why not read about game design? Love sports? Pick up a biography of your favourite athlete.

Reading regularly can help you:

• Improve your vocabulary and writing skills (which helps in every subject)
• Learn new things about topics you enjoy
• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Get better at understanding complex information

Pro tip: Your local library probably has an app where you can borrow ebooks and audiobooks for free – perfect for reading on your phone or tablet!

Get a head start (but don’t overdo it)

While you definitely shouldn’t spend your entire break studying, taking just a little time to prepare for next term can make a huge difference. Here’s how to do it without stressing yourself out:

• Look over your previous term’s work and note down anything you found confusing
• Check what topics you’ll be covering next term (most teachers are happy to share this)
• Watch some YouTube videos about upcoming topics to get familiar with them
• Organise your study materials and clean out your school bag
• Set some academic goals for next term

Find the right balance

Remember, holidays are primarily for recharging your batteries. Try to:

• Spend time with friends and family
• Get outside and stay active
• Catch up on sleep (but try to maintain a somewhat regular schedule)
• Do things that make you happy
• Take breaks from your screens

The key is finding a balance between relaxation and productivity that works for you. Even spending just 30 minutes a day on something productive can help you feel accomplished while still having plenty of time for fun.

Want more ideas?

Looking for more ways to make the most of your holidays? Check out our other blogs here – we have tons of advice to help you succeed both in and out of school.

Getting ready for life after school doesn’t mean you have to wait until graduation. There are lots of valuable skills and qualifications you can start building right now while you’re still at school. Whether you’re looking to boost your resume, explore potential career paths, or just learn something new, there are plenty of options available – let’s take a look

Why get qualified early?

Getting some extra qualifications while you’re still at school can give you several advantages:

• Stand out from other job applicants when you start looking for work
• Get a taste of different industries before committing to further study
• Build practical skills that complement your academic learning
• Gain confidence in your abilities
• Start earning money sooner in casual jobs
• Get a head start on career pathways that interest you

Popular courses and qualifications

Here are some valuable qualifications you could consider:

Safety and First Aid

• First Aid Certificate – learn essential life-saving skills
• White Card (Construction Induction) – required for working on construction sites
• Food Safety Certificates – necessary for working with food

Industry-Specific

• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) – for hospitality work (age restrictions apply)
• Working With Children Check – essential for working with young people
• Pre-apprenticeship courses – try out a trade before committing
• Pool Safety courses – for working at aquatic centres

Life skills

• Driver’s License (age restrictions apply)
• Surf Life Saving certificates
• Diving certifications
• Digital literacy courses
• Basic accounting or business skills

Remember that age restrictions and requirements vary depending on where you live, so it’s worth checking what’s available in your area.

How to get started

Before enrolling in any course, consider:

• The time commitment required
• Course costs and whether there are any subsidies available
• If there are any prerequisites
• Whether the qualification is recognised in your area
• How the qualification aligns with your interests and career goals

Many of these courses can be completed online or during school holidays, making them easier to fit around your studies. Some schools even offer vocational courses as part of their curriculum – check with your careers advisor to see what’s available.

Find out more

Want to explore more options for building your skills, whether it’s at school or in the future? You can find lots more information on our website here.

Schoolies is a time to celebrate your hard work, freedom, and the beginning of the next chapter in your life. It’s all about having fun with your friends and making memories that last a lifetime. But to ensure your Schoolies experience is memorable for all the right reasons, staying safe and making smart decisions is essential. Here’s a simple guide to enjoying your trip without compromising your safety or fun.

Plan ahead for a great time

Like almost anything in life, doing a bit of prep beforehand can save you a lot of stress down the track:

Choose accommodation wisely

Book accommodation that is registered with official Schoolies programs – these venues are safer and often have security and support staff on hand.

Share your plans

Let your family know where you’re staying and your travel itinerary. Keep them updated if anything changes.

Pack smart

Take essentials like sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, ID, chargers, a small first-aid kit, and any medications you’ll need.

Heading overseas?

You’ll also need your passport, visa, tickets (leave a copy with family at home), international SIM card, insurance, and – depending on where you’re heading to – you may even need some vaccinations.

Do Schoolies your way

Remember, it’s OK to think outside the box and celebrate with an alternative Schoolies – here are a few ideas you might like to check out.

Party safely

It’s definitely possible to let your hair down and have a great time while being safe – here’s how:

Pace yourself

If drinking alcohol, know (and respect) your limits. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water, and don’t feel pressured to drink if you don’t want to.

Stay together

Stick with your friends and look out for each other. Make a pact to leave together and never let anyone wander off alone.

Keep an eye on your drinks

Never accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended. Spiking can happen, and it’s better to be safe.

Know emergency contacts

Save the numbers for local emergency services, your accommodation, and a trusted friend or family member.

Stay safe in your environment

Depending on where you’re going and the activities you have planned, there might be some other extra things to keep in mind during your trip:

Beach safety

Swim between the flags, listen to lifeguards, and avoid swimming at night or while drinking.

Transport safety

Always plan your rides in advance. Use only official or registered taxi services, ride shares, or designated driver arrangements.

Social media smarts

Be cautious about sharing your location or too many details online. Post memories after the event to stay safe.

What to do if things go wrong

We hope that you have an amazing time and everything goes off without a hitch, but it’s still a good idea to know what to do in case things go wrong:

Speak up

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and get help. Don’t hesitate to call emergency services if needed.

Know your support services

Many Schoolies destinations have support tents or volunteers available to help with issues like lost items, injuries, or feeling unsafe.

Be honest with friends

If you’re feeling unwell or overwhelmed, let your friends know so they can support you.

Final tips for a memorable Schoolies

Here are the last few things to keep in mind to make sure you have both a fun and safe time at Schoolies:

• Hydrate – Drink plenty of water, especially in the heat.
• Fuel up – Don’t skip meals. Eating well helps keep your energy up.
• Take breaks – It’s okay to take time out to recharge or relax.
• Respect others – Be kind and courteous to those around you, including locals and other Schoolies attendees.

Most importantly, have fun!

Your Schoolies experience is what you make of it. By making smart choices and prioritising safety, you’ll create incredible memories without putting yourself or others at risk. Celebrate, laugh, and enjoy this milestone – you’ve earned it!

Stay safe and have a blast!

I’m a member of the Study Work Grow team where I work full-time, but I am also a passionate volunteer. I can’t remember when or how it all started, but the first volunteering role I had was collecting stamps off mail (back in the days when people sent post by mail on the regular) which I’d send in to the Guide Dogs and they’d somehow use to generate funds to support their programs.

I’ve volunteered for roles in school, at uni, and have generally had a volunteering role throughout most of my working life. Whether it’s fundraising, working for mental health charities, helping schools through the P&F or in class, donating blood or plasma, helping conservation efforts through tree planting days, clean-up events, or helping to rescue wildlife; it’s been a constant source of happiness and reward throughout my life. Other than the main reward of helping and meeting all the other “helpers” along the way, volunteering has given me a lot both personally and professionally.

Here’s a breakdown of why giving back can be so much more than just another item on your resume, but that is also an awesome bonus as well.

Discover your passions and interests

Volunteering is a great way to explore different fields and causes that might resonate with you. Are you passionate about animals? Volunteer at a shelter. Interested in healthcare? Look into programs that let you assist at a hospital or with elderly care. Whatever the cause, it’s an opportunity to figure out what you love without long-term commitments.

Plus, volunteering can show you sides of the world – and yourself – that you never knew existed. You might find that you enjoy working with young kids, want to pursue environmental science, or feel drawn to helping people in crisis. These experiences can help shape your career goals or even lead to new hobbies and interests.

Build skills and confidence

Volunteering is a fantastic way to build real-world skills. You might learn project management, organisation, teamwork, public speaking, or customer service skills, all of which are highly transferable. Even if you’re not sure what career you want to pursue, these skills are valuable in any field. Not to mention the hands-on experience and behind the scenes experiences that will also help you learn and grow.

For example, if you’re volunteering at an event, you might learn to manage logistics, work to a budget, communicate with attendees, coordinate efforts or work as part of a larger team. These situations push you out of your comfort zone and help you gain confidence in your abilities, preparing you for bigger responsibilities in school and beyond.

Make genuine connections and improve your mental health

Volunteering can help you meet people from different backgrounds, ages, and walks of life. Whether you’re working alongside fellow volunteers or connecting with the people you’re helping, you’re likely to form friendships and gain perspectives that enrich your life.

Networking is effective no matter where you are in life. When you get involved with volunteering you just never know when someone you meet along the way will offer you an amazing opportunity. Whether it’s the chance to learn about something you’re interested in, go on a trip, take part in something fun or life changing, it could even lead to job opportunities.

On top of that, studies show that volunteering can actually boost your mood and reduce stress. When you volunteer, your brain releases chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine, which help you feel happier and more relaxed. And the sense of accomplishment from helping others can increase your overall life satisfaction. So, while you’re giving back, you’re also taking care of your own mental health!

Don’t believe me or the research? There’s a simple way to test if it’ll work for you – just give it a go.

Wrapping up

Volunteering isn’t for everyone, and that’s OK. If you’re unsure but decide to give volunteering a go, it can be a game-changer, not just for the people you’re helping but for yourself as well. So whether it’s helping out at a local food bank, tutoring younger students, or planting trees in the community getting out and doing your bit is something I’d recommend to everyone. At the end of the day what have you got to lose?

Sure if you give up some time and don’t feel it was right for you could think it was time wasted, but actually it’s still helping you to learn about yourself, you can still add it to your resume, and it might help point you towards something that is perfect for you.

Volunteering is about more than just giving your time. It’s a chance to explore who you are, gain new skills, and make meaningful connections — all while making a positive impact. So next time an opportunity to volunteer comes up, give it a shot! It might just turn out to be one of the most rewarding things you do in high school.

If you’re tempted to give it a try, check out more articles about volunteering to see what inspires you and how to get started.