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11 School Leaver Job Ideas That Don’t Require a Degree

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Starting your career straight after finishing school can be an exciting prospect. While many graduates choose to continue their studies at university, this path is not for everyone. The good news is, there are plenty of great jobs out there that don’t require a college degree.

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When applying for roles straight out of school, it’s important to showcase any relevant skills, achievements and work experience you may have from school projects, extracurricular activities, volunteering or part-time jobs. School leaver CV examples on the Adobe website can provide useful tips on formatting your CV effectively as a school leaver.

Here are 11 great job ideas to consider if you’re looking for roles you can apply for straight after finishing school: 

1. Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are a great option for school leavers looking to enter many industries. You get paid as you learn on the job and work towards nationally recognised qualifications. Apprenticeships commonly lead to full-time roles once completed. Industries offering apprenticeships include construction, healthcare, business, hospitality and more.

2. Entry-Level Administrative Role

Jobs like receptionists, data entry clerks, office assistants and mail room clerks provide administrative support in nearly every industry. While administrative roles often don’t require specific qualifications, skills in organisation, communication and IT programs are useful. Entry-level admin roles allow you to get your foot in the door at a company and gain experience.

3. Retail Assistant

Working in retail – either in-store or warehouse/distribution roles – develops customer service, communication, teamwork and organisational skills valuable for many careers. Retail assistants help customers, process transactions, stock shelves, pack orders and carry out other store duties. Look for entry-level sales assistant, shop assistant, retail team member and customer advisor roles.

4. Hospitality Staff

The hospitality sector includes venues like hotels, restaurants, bars, theme parks and casinos. Common roles for school leavers include waiters/waitresses, bartenders, baristas, kitchen assistants, housekeeping cleaners and front desk agents. While tips and training are often provided, enthusiasm, customer service skills and ability to work flexible hours are a must.

5. Contact Centre Roles

Customer service focused school leavers can look for roles like customer service assistants, help desk advisors and call centre agents. You’ll gain experience handling customer queries and complaints across phone, email and social media channels. These roles help build your communication skills and customer service mindset.

6. Food Service Staff

Fast food outlets, coffee shops and catering companies regularly hire school leavers to work as food service assistants, baristas, crew members, dishwashers, hosts/hostesses and cashiers. You’ll learn all aspects of food preparation, customer service, stocking, cleaning and running a busy food outlet. Flexible hours and part-time roles are common.

7. Delivery Driver

For school leavers with a valid driver’s licence, delivery driving can be a flexible way to earn an income. You may deliver fast food, groceries, parcels or medical supplies. A clean driving record is important. Look for delivery driver, courier and driver assistant roles. Familiarity with the local area is an advantage.

8. Trades Assistant

If you’re interested in trades like carpentry, plumbing or electrical, look for apprenticeships or assistant roles where you can gain an entry-level experience. Assistants help established tradespeople with duties like site preparation, cleaning, packing supplies, basic installations and repairs. This can lead towards apprenticeship opportunities.

9. Childcare Worker

Childcare centres, schools, camps and sports programs hire school leaver aged assistants to help care for children. You’ll supervise activities, prepare meals, assist with lessons and ensure kids are safe and engaged. Look for daycare assistant, play worker, childcare aide and outside school hours care roles. Experience with children is valued.

10. Farm Hand in Australia

If you want to experience a gap year, Australia’s extensive farming industry regularly hires farm hands and agricultural workers to assist with duties like feeding livestock, maintaining farm infrastructure, operating vehicles/machinery, and crops. You’ll gain hands-on experience in animal care, machinery operation, manual work and the farming lifestyle.

11. Landscaping Assistant

If you enjoy working outdoors, a role as a landscaping or gardening assistant may appeal. You’ll help maintain gardens, yards, parks and commercial grounds by mowing, pruning, planting, weeding and more. No formal experience is required, and you’ll get hands-on training in using landscaping tools and operating machinery. This role suits those interested in horticulture.

Starting your career straight after school can be an exciting and rewarding move with many industries offering opportunities. Bear in mind any experience helps boost your CV and skills as you consider future career steps, including further study. Approach your job search positively and be willing to learn on the job – many successful careers have kickstarted this way straight after school.

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