Depending on what your dream job is, not everyone has to go to university or TAFE to succeed. Why not consider an apprenticeship, volunteer work, starting your own business, taking a gap year from full time study or doing a combination of the choices. These are just some of the ways you can learn and develop valuable skills.

One of the best ways to get hands on experience in the workforce is through apprenticeships. Nowadays you can undertake apprenticeships on a whole range of qualifications, anything from horticulture to telecommunications. Visit the Australian Apprenticeships website to learn more about what they can offer you.

Doing volunteer work or taking a break after finishing school is another way to gain a good perspective on your career goals. A gap year can be used to go travelling and to discover what is out there in the world of work. Volunteer work is very rewarding and you can become involved in community groups and organisations which will help you build on team work and problem solving skills.

Did you know that 50,000 young Australians aged 15-24 run their own business? So if you have a good business idea, attending a business course, even a short course can substantially increase your chance of success.

The choice is yours. All of these options will allow you to learn and perhaps even uncover your career path.