Education plays an important role in helping young people and adults with CF achieve their goals, build independence and prepare for the future. While managing CF can sometimes create challenges such as hospital admissions, treatment burden or fatigue, many people with CF successfully complete school, vocational training, university and further study. With the right support and planning, it is possible to balance health needs with educational aspirations and access opportunities that support personal, academic and career success.
High School
If you’re in high school and exploring your options, check in with student services at your school. They can help match your interests and values to future career paths, share up-to-date information about job trends, and support you in setting career goals. It may be helpful to share some information about your CF so they can tailor their advice to your needs.
Supports
We can support you by helping educators and staff understand CF and possible implications on your study, providing an Individual Student Action Plan and offering practical advice to help you balance your health, studies and future goals.
If you are falling behind in school due to health challenges, tutoring is also available for free through Ronald McDonald Learning Program, and other financial support may also be available through scholarships or subsidies. More information can be found here.
You can also request our Guide to Life After School booklet, a practical resource for young people covering budgeting, renting, tax, travel, and more.
Further Education
For some people with CF, further study through TAFE, university, or other training providers may be an important step towards achieving career goals. Like employment, study can bring both opportunities and challenges when managing health needs. Things to consider include:
- Flexibility in course load (e.g., part time vs full time study)
- Access to online or hybrid learning options
- Availability of extensions or special consideration if health impacts your studies
- Scholarships, financial assistance, and disability support services that may be available to help balance study and health needs.
- Eligibility for the Ex-Carer Allowance (Child) Health Care Card. If you had a Health Care Card and choose to take up fulltime study between the ages of 16 and 25, you may be eligible.
I had to take some time off uni when I was really unwell, and I was in hospital for a bit. And then I also missed the end of the semester, so I had to repeat all of those units.
– Adult with CF
Career Coaching
If you need support deciding which career path to take, we can offer people with CF aged 16+ access to one-on-one career coaching with a qualified professional. The career coaching sessions provide a relaxed and supportive space to explore your strengths, interests and goals, while building confidence for your next steps.
Support may include:
- Career exploration and goal setting
- Resume and cover letter support
- Interview preparation
- Discussion around workplace rights and disclosure
- Exploring realistic and flexible work options
- General guidance around employment and independence
Through personalised coaching, you’ll gain greater clarity about your career direction and develop practical tools to help you navigate your employment journey with confidence. Limited financial assistance for employment-related resources or training may also be available depending on individual need and remaining program funding.