Vocational Education and Training in Schools (VET) programs are designed to expand opportunities and pathways for senior secondary students, and improve post compulsory educational outcomes as well as address the employment needs of industry in Victoria.
VET is competency based and requires successfully completing units of work over a defined period of time. On successful completion of the VET course, a stand-alone industry recognised certificate, or Statement of Attainment which is accredited Australia wide is awarded to the student.
Students who would like to undertake a VET study can begin it in Year 10 or Year 11.
VCE VET studies are fully recognised within the Units 1 to 4 structure of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and therefore contribute towards satisfactory completion of the VCE.
- VCE VET units have equal status with other VCE studies
- VCE VET studies contribute to the student’s ATAR.
Most VET courses are undertaken over a two year period and are regularly reviewed and amended to ensure that they are up to date with changing industry and training standards. Undertaking a VET subject does incur additional costs which cover the additional resources and specialist training providers.
Apprenticeships and traineeships at school
Your VCE or VCE Vocational Major can also include an apprenticeship or traineeship. Starting an apprenticeship or traineeship while at school means you can get paid on-the-job training that leads to a qualification. School-based apprenticeships and traineeships give you the confidence and vocational skills that employers need.
VET Increases Students’ Learning Potential
- Broadens VCE/ VCE-VM options.
- Develops the student’s capacity to make decisions and solve problems.
- Helps students to gain confidence and improve communication and interpersonal skills through learning in an adult environment.
- Matches student interest and career directions through the provision of strong pathways.
VET Gives National Qualifications and Skills
- Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a nationally accredited vocational training certificate.
- VET qualification articulates directly into further education and training at TAFE, e.g., Cert II in Automotive Technology provides students with a pre apprenticeship in this industry area.
- VET provides access to a range of different technologies related to the workplace.
VET Prepares Students For The Workforce
- Expands post school opportunities.
- Provides the opportunity to trial a career.
- Helps students explore possible areas of interest, which promote further study and work choices.
- Allows students to develop strong links with industry and local community employers. Students may be offered part time or casual work.
- Improves employment prospects.
- Helps students gain knowledge of employer’s expectations and real working conditions.
- Develops student’s capacity for co-operation, teamwork and leadership skill development.
- Assists the transition from school to work.