Finishing school and not sure what’s next? There are plenty of options

Published on 05 October 2026

Finishing high school brings plenty of opportunities, but it can also bring some big questions – particularly if you’re unsure of what comes next.

While many young people have plans to head straight to university, into an apprenticeship or to begin full-time work after graduating, it’s okay to still be figuring things out.

Now is the time to explore your options, learn new skills and gain experience to put you on the pathway to success – and the good news is that there are countless ways to earn money, build your skillset and start your career right here in the Rockhampton Region.

Further study

Tertiary Study (University)

No matter your ATAR results or how your post-school plans evolve, there are a range of alternative pathways to help you reach your goal of completing tertiary education at university.

While the exact criteria varies depending on your circumstances, you don’t necessarily need to have an ATAR or have completed year 12 to secure a place at university. Work experience, life skills, bridging programs and admissions tests can all help you secure a spot at uni.

VET, Apprenticeships and Traineeships

You can complete vocational education and training (VET) after finishing year 12. This is a fantastic pathway to enter careers around trades, care and community services, construction, agriculture and technology. To begin your journey, you’ll need to contact a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). There are dozens of providers in the Rockhampton Region so you’re bound to find the course you’re looking for close to home.

You can also begin an apprenticeship or traineeship after completing year 12. There are two ways to begin the process – you can either start by being employed as an apprentice or trainee directly by a business, or through a group training organisation. There is a step-by-step process to follow to start your journey.

Micro-credentials

If you’re looking to ‘taste test’ a career, upskill or boost your job prospects, CQUniversity offers a range of short courses and micro-credentials. There are hundreds of courses covering a variety of industries and pathways – from barista short courses to psychology, chemistry, law, marketing and everything in between.

These micro-credentials can be completed online, on-campus in Rockhampton or a combination of both.

Link and Launch

If you’ve completed year 12 in the last few years and haven’t begun further study, training or work, the Queensland Government’s free Link and Launch support program is here to help.

With the help of a friendly, locally based officer, you can get guidance and assistance to apply for further study and to get you ‘job ready’ (this can include life skills like writing a resume or getting a driver’s licence).

The service is free, and you’ll have the backing of someone who has connections with local businesses, training providers and is passionate about giving you a hand up to build your dream career in the Rockhampton Region – so reach out today to learn more.

Freelancing or starting your own business

While previous generations have focused on building careers as an employee, many young people today prefer to pursue freelance opportunities or start their own business.

In our region, Advance Rockhampton delivers a range of small business workshops and business events throughout the year which are free to attend, and may help connect you with potential customers and develop the skills needed to put your business on the pathway to success.

Business Queensland also provides a wealth of resources to help you start a business, including the Business Launchpad tool which guides you through the licences and permits you may need to get up and running.

Building life skills

As you work out your post-school pathway, why not use the time to build and practice the valuable life skills which will put you in good stead to apply for jobs in the future.

You could use the time after graduating to work on:

• Writing a strong resume and cover letter by including life skills, educational achievements, qualifications and references from teachers.
• Practicing job interviews by understanding the questions you may be asked and how to come across as confident and professional.
• Personal finances by preparing a budget, considering any income, rent, utilities, groceries, entertainment, and transport so you’re able to save and enjoy your money once you begin full-time employment.
• If you’re preparing to rent a home for the first time, you’ll want to use that budget to save for a bond. You’ll also need to gather documents such as a proof of income, ID documents and references, which could include a trusted teacher. 

A productive gap year

While we’ve given you a few ideas to help prepare you for future employment, you may choose to have a gap year and travel before returning home. If you’re taking a gap year, part-time work, volunteering, short courses, and building life skills will all put you in a good position to build a successful career.

Most of all, remember that every decision you make now will shape your future, but doesn’t necessarily define it. Some research suggests that the average person could now hold as many as 17 different jobs and 5 career pathways throughout their life, so it’s okay to not have your entire future mapped out.

What matters most is taking the next step, continuing to learn and evolve, and building the skills which will help you make the most of the many career opportunities right here in the Rockhampton Region.