31/08/2026
Year 11 ATAR student – Work experience opportunity
Year 11 ATAR student, Xyanthe Picks is curious about pursuing a career pathway into Forensic Science, and the opportunity to expand her world view came up. She took the chance on an application with the recommendation from her Chemistry teacher, Ms Mace and was selected to participate in the Australian Federal Police (AFP) Forensics WEX program, in Canberra- a once in a lifetime experience that was supported by the BHP Pilbara Education Partnership.
Xyanthe’s summary of the week:
Each day was different however our days consisted of.
• Listening to lectures from the different sections of the forensics team. Some teams that we talked to were: The armoury, missing persons team, facial identification, chemical criminalistics, crime scene investigation and much more.
• Practical activities, which, my favourite was with the CSI team, where we searched through a car to find multiple things hidden within, like, controlled substances and weapons.
At the start of the week, we were briefed with a case. Our objective was to find the perpetrator and give expert-witness accounts of what our evidence is telling us in a mock trial. Our first practical was documenting and collecting evidence from the crime scene. All the practicals and lectures gave us skills to use when we got into groups of four to solve our own practice case. By the end of the week, we interpreted the evidence we collected plan for a mock trial.
What impact has attending the opportunity had on your future aspirations?
Attending the program did solidify my thought of pursuing forensics as a future career aspiration. I learnt there are so many ways to get into the career, and ‘Forensic Science’ is just an umbrella term for so many different careers under the umbrella. It’s such a multidisciplinary job where collaboration is vital and I really admire every lecturer who spoke to us.
As a regional ATAR pathway student, how has the support from the BHP Pilbara Partnership added to your experience?
The partnership between BHP and the school has helped me a lot when it comes to funding holiday revision, masterclasses, and our school classes. All the educational support provided helps me achieve a better understanding of the courses I am taking, and I am extremely grateful to have such resources.
What advice would you give to students thinking of pursuing a university pathway to help them be successful?
Having a study schedule with regular practice – have a routine sorted early – even by the end of Year 10. Study comes first, but it is also important to have a balance outside school to look after yourself, so it doesn’t consume you.
