Future Pathways Program
St Edmund’s College’s Future Pathways Program is a flagship initiative proudly sponsored by the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) and deeply rooted in the College’s tradition of holistic education.
Launched in 2005, the program was created to provide high-achieving Year 11 students with a unique window into their future professions. Over a three (3) month immersive journey, participants are paired with industry mentors and engage in in-depth research into a career path they are passionate about.
Key highlights of the program:
- Students dedicate months to research under the guidance of a mentor
- They develop a multi-modal presentation for an initial round of judging
- The grand finale at UniSQ’s campus sees three (3) finalists present live at an Awards Night, judged by professionals, mentors and peers
The Future Pathways Program is not simply an academic exercise; it is a transformative experience that fosters independence, confidence and clarity in students’ ambitions. It aligns seamlessly with St Edmund’s College’s ethos of nurturing young men who are spiritually grounded, academically strong, socially aware and creatively engaged.
Beyond academic learning, students gain transferable skills that will serve them well in any pathway they choose to pursue. From critical thinking and communication to time management, problem-solving and collaboration, participants develop capabilities that extend far beyond the classroom. These skills not only strengthen their future career prospects but also equip them to contribute positively to their communities.
In addition, the program complements the College’s broader Careers & Futures and Pastoral programs, which emphasise goal-setting, reflective learning and the development of personal responsibility.
Over two (2) decades, the Future Pathways Program has become much more than a school initiative. It has evolved into a rite of passage for Year 11 students, a bridge to real-world professions and a celebration of curiosity and ambition.
Alumni have gone on to pursue diverse fields, from law and medicine to business, creative arts, ICT and beyond, often citing their Future Pathways experience as a pivotal moment in shaping their decisions.
The Awards Night is a highlight of the academic year, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation as students present before mentors, peers and judges. Many leave not only with enhanced presentation skills but also with valuable networks and insights that help guide their next steps.
The program thrives within the College’s broader commitment to “building confidence, sparking curiosity, and nurturing agile, resilient minds”, grounded in a Catholic tradition of service and leadership.
It also forms part of a wider vision that embraces strategic partnerships, inclusive learning and future-ready experiences, all designed to help students “live simply and make a difference”.
Two (2) decades on, the Future Pathways Program stands as a shining example of what educational innovation can achieve. It is more than a program, it is a legacy of opportunity, direction and inspiration.
The Future Pathways Program has always been about more than career exploration; it challenges our students academically, encouraging them to think critically, research deeply and communicate with confidence. Over the years, I have seen how these experiences give our young men clarity, purpose and the skills to thrive well beyond their school years.
Mr Ray Celegato
Principal
In the spirit of reconciliation, St Edmund’s College acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.