WHERE
TO NOW?
2016 Guide to the VCE,
VCAL and Apprenticeships
and Traineeships
VICTORIAN CURRICULUM
AND ASSESSMENT AUTHORITY
WELCOME
Well done on reaching your final years of secondary
school. You have many exciting options to consider
when deciding how to complete your senior secondary
schooling. This booklet will help you to make decisions
about your future, whether you plan to enrol in
university, complete an apprenticeship or traineeship, or
get a job in the workforce. Most importantly, this booklet
will help you to choose a path that allows you to explore
your interests.
You can choose from two senior secondary
qualifications – the Victorian Certificate of Education
(VCE) and the Victorian Certificate of Applied
Learning (VCAL). As part of the VCE or VCAL, you
can also achieve a Vocational Education and Training
(VET) certificate or a school-based apprenticeship/
traineeship.
VCE students who complete a higher level mathematics
subject and a language as part of their VCE program
may also be eligible to receive the VCE (Baccalaureate).
I encourage you to read the stories in this booklet from
students who have completed the VCE, VCAL, VET and
school-based apprenticeships/traineeships. They have
experienced the challenges and triumphs of the senior
secondary years and they have great advice that can
help you to decide what you want study.
All Victorian education certificates are valuable and will
recognise your learning and the skills you have gained.
I wish you the very best for your senior secondary
schooling and the years that follow.
The Hon. James Merlino MP
Deputy Premier and
Minister for Education
WHAT’S
INSIDE?
Where to now? has information about the senior
secondary qualifications available in Victoria and where
these can lead to after you’ve finished school.
The two main qualifications are the Victorian Certificate
of Education (VCE) and the Victorian Certificate of
Applied Learning (VCAL).
This booklet also has information about Vocational
Education and Training (VET), which can form part of
your VCE or VCAL, and school-based apprenticeships
and traineeships.
VCE
Before you decide what you want to study, make
sure you talk to your VCE coordinator or your careers
teachers. They will help you make the right choices for
you.
If you want to do the VCE or VCAL and you have special
needs associated with an illness, a disability or personal
circumstances, there are many support options. This is
called Special Provision. Your school is best placed to
tell you what’s available to help you complete your VCE
or VCAL studies.
5
Victorian Certificate
of Education
VCAL
15
VET
21
If you know what career you want to have, talk to
people already working in the industry – ask them how
they got to where they are now.
Victorian Certificate
of Applied Learning
Vocational Education
and Training
APPRENTICESHIPS
AND TRAINEESHIPS
24
4
VET
TAFE CERTIFICATE II/III/IV • DIPLOMA
• ADVANCED DIPLOMA
LEARNING
PATHWAYS
VOCATIONAL
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
VCAL
VICTORIAN CERTIFICATE
OF APPLIED LEARNING
VCE
VICTORIAN CERTIFICATE
OF EDUCATION
APPRENTICESHIPS
AND TRAINEESHIPS
UNIVERSITY
EMPLOYMENT • APPRENTICESHIP
• TRAINEESHIP • WORKPLACE LEARNING
You can do EITHER Unit 1 OR 2 in any study.
VCE
You need to do BOTH Units 3 and 4 of one study in the same year.
You can take longer than two years to finish VCE if you need to.
You can also start VCE in Year 10, or do Units 3 and 4 in Year 11.
You should talk to your teacher about how to structure your VCE
program to meet your needs.
What is the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)?
What studies can I choose?
Most students in Victoria receive their VCE when they complete
their secondary schooling. Completing the VCE provides many
opportunities; it is a globally recognised qualification.
There are over 90 VCE studies and over 20 VCE VET programs.
Each school decides which VCE studies and VET programs it
will offer. If your school doesn’t have the studies you want to
do, they might be available outside school. Check with Distance
Education Victoria or the Victorian School of Languages or speak
to your VCE coordinator.
Did you know that many students outside Australia study for the
VCE? Students in China, South Africa and the Middle East are
choosing to study their VCE and will be sitting their exams in
centres all around the world.
The VCE is divided into units and studies. Students usually study
from 20 to 24 units (five or six studies) in Years 11 and 12, and
some students start VCE in Year 10.
There is a full list of studies on the following page.
How should I choose which VCE studies to do?
What is a VCE study?
The best idea is to choose studies that:
•
•
•
•
A study is the overall subject, for example English or Biology. A
study is made up of four units (each unit is a semester length).
For most students the VCE is completed over two years.
In Year 11, you can study Units 1 and 2, and in Year 12 you can
study Units 3 and 4.
interest you
you are good at
lead to a job that interests you
will help you get into a university or TAFE course that you want to do.
Speak to your careers counsellor before you make your choices.
5
6
VCE STUDIES
IN 2016
Individual schools do
not offer all these
studies. Check which
VCE studies your
school offers.
THE ARTS
•
•
•
•
•
Art
Dance
Drama
Media
Music:
−− Music
Performance
−− Music
Investigation*
−− Music Style and
Composition
• Studio Arts
• Theatre Studies
• Visual
Communication
Design
BUSINESS STUDIES
HUMANITIES
SCIENCE
•
•
•
•
Accounting
• Classical Studies
• Biology
Business Management • Geography
• Chemistry
Economics
• History:
• Environmental
Industry and
−− Ancient History
Science
Enterprise
−− Australian
• Physics
• Legal Studies
History*
• Psychology
−− Global Empires†
CROSS-CURRICULAR
−− Revolutions*
TECHNOLOGY
−− Twentieth Century
• Extended
History†
• Agricultural and
Investigation*
• Australian and Global
Horticultural Studies
Politics
• Algorithmics (HESS)*
ENGLISH
• Philosophy
• Computing†
• English/English as an • Religion and Society
−− Informatics*
Additional Language • Sociology
−− Software
• English Language
• Texts and Traditions
Development*
• Foundation English†
• Product Design and
MATHEMATICS
• Literature
Technology
• Bridging English
•
Food and Technology
• Foundation
as an Additional
•
Systems Engineering
†
Mathematics
Language†
• Further Mathematics*
• General Mathematics†
HEALTH AND PHYSICAL
• Mathematical
EDUCATION
Methods
• Health and Human
• Specialist
Development
Mathematics
• Outdoor and
Environmental Studies
• Physical Education
KEY † Units 1 and 2 only Units 3 and 4 only
*
LANGUAGES
Arabic, Armenian, Auslan,
Bosnian, Chinese First
Language, Chinese
Second Language,
Chinese Second
Language Advanced,
Chin Hakha, Classical
Greek, Classical Hebrew,
Croatian, Dutch, Filipino,
French, German,
Greek, Hebrew, Hindi,
Hungarian, Indigenous
Languages of Victoria:
Revival and Reclamation,
Indonesian First
Language, Indonesian
Second Language, Italian,
Japanese First Language,
Japanese Second
Language, Khmer, Korean
First Language, Korean
Second Language,
Latin, Macedonian,
Maltese, Persian, Polish,
Portuguese, Punjabi,
Romanian, Russian,
Serbian, Sinhala,
Spanish, Swedish,
Tamil, Turkish, Ukrainian,
Vietnamese, Yiddish
What do I have to do to get my VCE?
How do I get marks in the VCE?
To get your VCE you must pass 16 units.
Units 1 and 2 are marked by your school; your teachers will set a
range of assessments to see how you are progressing. The
assessments have deadlines and you will need to plan your work
and finish your work on time. Deadlines can only be extended in
special circumstances.
Three units must be from the English group, and one of these
must be at Unit 3 and 4 level. The English group consists of
Foundation English (Units 1 and 2), English (Units 1–4), Bridging
English as an Additional Language (Units 1–2), English as an
Additional Language (Units 3–4), English Language (Units 1–4)
and Literature (Units 1–4). Your teacher will tell you which English
group subjects you should do, or you can find out more about
them on the VCAA website.
For Units 1 and 2 you will receive either S (for
Satisfactory), or N (for Not Satisfactory). Your
school might give you an additional grade, but
only the S or N count towards your VCE.
The remaining units come from your choice of VCE studies.
Three of these studies must be at Unit 3 and 4 level.
For Units 3 and 4 you will get grades from A+ to E or UG
(Ungraded) for your assessment tasks, as well as an S or N.
There are three graded assessments for VCE studies at Unit 3
and 4 level. Depending on the study, these may be School-based
Assessment and/or external assessments.
All VCE students studying at least one Unit 3 and 4 study take
the General Achievement Test (GAT). The GAT is used to work out
students’ general knowledge and skills in written communication,
mathematics, science, technology, humanities, the arts and social
sciences. You must do the GAT. It doesn’t count towards your VCE
results, but it is used to make sure your marks are accurate. The
GAT is usually held in June.
School-based Assessments are set by your teacher. Schoolassessed Coursework (SAC) is completed at school, and Schoolassessed Tasks (SAT) are completed at school and home. These
are marked at your school, but the VCAA checks the marks to
make sure that all schools in Victoria are marking to the same
standard. There are many rules about how the VCE is marked;
you can ask your teachers about them or read about them on the
VCAA website.
External assessments are the same for all students taking that
same VCE study. Usually this will be an exam – it can be written,
oral, performance or electronic.
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8
YEAR 10 General Mathematics Units 1 and 2 YEAR 11 English Units 1 and 2, History: Twentieth Century History
Unit 1, History: People and Power Unit 2, Media Units 1 and 2, Music Performance Units 1 and 2, Studio Arts
Units 1 and 2, Psychology Units 3 and 4 YEAR 12 English Units 3 and 4, History: Revolutions Units 3 and 4,
Psychology Units 3 and 4, Media Units 3 and 4, Studio Arts Units 3 and 4
JAMES
I wanted to choose VCE subjects that I enjoyed and found fulfilling. I figured that if I really liked a
subject I would be able to achieve my best results, but it would also put me in the best position to
pursue my interests in the future.
During Year 10, I thought about which subjects I had enjoyed during my education so far and which
subject areas I hadn’t been as drawn to. This gave me a good starting point for choosing a VCE
program that would suit me best.
I sought advice from older VCE students who were studying the subjects that I was interested in.
I figured it was a good idea to get a student’s perspective on what a subject is like. I also asked for
advice from the careers counsellor at my school.
When it came time to start my VCE I didn’t have a particular strategy. I decided the best thing to do was to be consistent, stay calm
and try my best.
I put a lot of time and effort into staying organised. Being organised really helps to reduce stress. If you know exactly what you
have to do and when, then all you have to do is start! Keeping notes, as I progressed throughout my studies was useful for revision,
especially before my final exams. When it gets to the end of the year you want to focus your efforts on reviewing information rather
than trying to find it.
Having something to take my mind off study was equally important. Whether it was sport, music or just relaxing, being able to get
away and recharge every now and again was crucial.
The most important thing that I constantly reminded myself of was that VCE isn’t everything. This allowed me to strive for the best
possible results, but be happy with the best I could have achieved.
The application process for the course I am doing this year included an interview. The VCE subjects I chose really helped me to
develop my skills and build a folio that I was confident about taking to the interview.
What is a study score?
The exams are in October and November; you will receive plenty
of notice about the exact dates of your exams. Your external
assessments are marked by experts in that area of study. All VCE
studies are marked to the same standard and there are multiple
checks to make sure that marking is fair.
If you achieve at least two graded assessments and got an S for
both Units 3 and 4 in a study in the same year, you will receive
a study score. A study score is a number between 0 and 50 that
indicates your ranking in terms of all students doing that study
in that year. The marks for all students in a VCE study are used
to work out study scores. Study scores are used by the Victorian
Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) to calculate your ATAR.
How will I get my results?
All students who do VCE studies receive a Statement of Results.
If you are only taking Units 1 and 2, it will be sent to your school.
If you are doing at least one Unit 3 and 4 study, the VCAA will
mail it to you in December.
What is an ATAR?
An ATAR is used to work out what university courses you might
be able to get into. It is a ranking between 0.00 and 99.95 used
by tertiary institutions to look at students who have completed
certain combinations of VCE studies and offer them places.
If you have done a Unit 3 and 4 level study, the Statement of Results
includes the overall grade for your school-based and external
assessments, and the mark you got for the GAT.
If you want to get an ATAR, you need to have at least four study
scores one of which must be from the English group.
You will also get a certificate if you have successfully completed
the VCE.
You can find out more information about the ATAR and course
choices through VTAC.
How do I get into university or TAFE?
To get into university you may need certain study scores and
an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). To get into some
TAFE courses, you also need to have a study score.
Other resources
•
•
•
•
9
VTAC website
VTAC publications
online ATAR calculator resource
Department of Education and Training website
10
YEAR 10 Psychology Units 1 and 2 YEAR 11 Chemistry Units 1 and 2, English Units 1 and 2, Mathematical
Methods Units 1 and 2, Physical Education Units 1 and 2, Physics Units 1 and 2, Biology Units 3 and 4 YEAR 12
Chemistry Units 3 and 4, English Units 3 and 4, Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4, Physical Education Units 3
and 4, Psychology Units 3 and 4
WHITNEY
I chose my subjects because three of them were prerequisites for the university course I wanted to
study. My career aspiration is to become a medical practitioner and alternate between working in
developing countries and working in rural Victoria.
Near the end of Year 10, I began to look into what career options interested me, as well as what
prerequisites were required to get into university. I had to make sure that the workload wasn’t too
heavy for me, and broadened my options for later university courses, just in case I decided to change
my mind down the track.
At times it was difficult to know which subjects I was best suited to. I was faced with a tough choice
at the end of Year 11 when I had to choose between Psychology and Physics at Unit 3 and 4 level. My
senior school coordinator gave me some simple advice, by asking me which subject I enjoyed doing
more and which one I felt I was better at. I made the decision to pursue Psychology, and I’ve never looked back.
Understanding what worked for me was important. During VCE I found that my best study times were in the morning, when I first got
up, and in the afternoon. Based on this, I created a study timetable. Though getting up early wasn’t exactly fun, it meant I could go to
sleep a little earlier and be well rested for the next day. I was most productive when my mind was refreshed.
Organisation was important for managing my workload. Being up-to-date with my study made it easier and less stressful, especially
when it came time for SACs and revision.
But regardless of my best attempts to stay organised, there were times when I had three or more SACs on the same day. I would work
out my priorities and focus on what I was struggling with.
I also set myself ‘escape’ activities from my studies to balance everything out and get the most from my VCE experience. This
included exercise, watching movies and seeing friends. It’s better to do a few hours of study, have a break and then go back to the
books, rather than study for hours on end without rest – you’ll feel like a zombie and won’t be able to properly consolidate information
in your mind.
Something extra …
These must include:
• a score of 30 or above for
English, Literature or English
Language, or a study score
of 33 for English as an
Additional Language
• a VCE Languages study
• VCE Mathematical Methods
or Specialist Mathematics.
If you’ve done well in your studies and want an extra challenge,
you might be able to do a Higher Education study. Higher
Education studies provide you with a defined pathway into a
tertiary program.
It can count towards your VCE and the first year of a university
course.
There are two types of Higher Education study:
Your school can give you more
information about the VCE
(Baccalaureate).
• An Extension Study has a curriculum that is an extended
version of a VCE study. For example, you do VCE Biology at
school and do an Extension Study in an area of Biology at a
university.
• An Advanced Standing Study has a curriculum that is not in
a current VCE study. For example, you could do a first year
nursing subject at a university while doing VCE studies at
Units 3 and 4.
There are also awards for
students who are studying
arts, music or media and/or for
students involved in community
service, and/or public speaking:
• VCE Season of Excellence
• Margaret Schofield Memorial
Scholarship
• VCAA Plain English Speaking
Award
• VCE Leadership Awards
• Premier’s VCE Awards.
You can only do one Higher Education study and your school
has to recommend you for the program.
Higher Education studies are offered by the VCAA in conjunction
with most major universities in Victoria. The VCAA website has
a list of universities that offer Higher Education studies; you can
find them on the VCE studies page.
You might be able to get further recognition for extra levels of
achievement with a VCE (Baccalaureate). You must complete
VCE with a Languages study and a higher-level Mathematics
study, and have study scores for at least five VCE studies.
Getting involved in these awards
can help your career and
personal development. Find out
more about these awards on the
VCAA website.
11
Did you know?
In 2014:
• more than 130,000
people visited the Top
Designs exhibition at
Melbourne Museum
• more than 3000
people attended Top
Screen at ACMI
• nearly 9500 attended
Top Class and Top
Acts concerts
• more than 75,000
people visited Top Arts
at NGV
• more than 180
students from across
Victoria participated in
the VCAA Plain English
Speaking Award
• eight students
received a VCE
Leadership Award.
12
YEAR 10 Visual Communication Design Units 1 and 2 YEAR 11 Business Management Units 1 and 2, English
Units 1 and 2, Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2, Media Units 1 and 2, Religion and Society Units 1 and 2, Studio
Arts Units 1 and 2, Visual Communication Design Units 3 and 4 YEAR 12 English Units 3 and 4, Mathematical
Methods Units 3 and 4, Further Mathematics Units 3 and 4, Media Units 3 and 4, Studio Arts Units 3 and 4
VINH
Photography and film were always a passion of mine. By choosing art-oriented subjects, I was able to
keep engaged and interested throughout my time in high school.
I also chose to do two mathematics subjects. I knew I had skill in this area, despite it not being directly
related to the arts, and that I would do well.
I thought a lot about my VCE program before starting Year 11, researching and speaking to a
few teachers. I wanted to make sure my subjects would guarantee I had the right skills for my
undergraduate course.
Having a plan allowed me to use my time more effectively and keep up with the work. Ticking things
off as I completed them kept me organised, and making sure that my notes were safely stored and
ordered helped make SACs and exams less stressful.
I tried to maintain a balance between study and rest. I found that I could reduce stress by having a set time for doing study, and
having free time. Creating artworks, other than those I was producing for school, was motivating and gave me valuable experience.
While developing my folio it was important not to be afraid to ask for feedback. Friends, teachers and industry professionals provided
me with valuable insight. After the VCE, I attended a few interviews, and without the advice and comments from others I would not
have done as well.
Though I am fresh out of high school, the skills and folio I developed during my VCE made me feel like I was able to keep up with
other students in my course who have had more industry experience.
PLANNING
MY VCE
PROGRAM
Use this chart to plan the VCE program you would like to do, keeping in mind:
• w
hether you want to complete your VCE in two years (start in Year 11) or in three years (start in Year 10)
• that you have to include an approved combination of at least three units from the English group (see page 7),
and at least three other sequences of Units 3 and 4 as well as the compulsory English units
• the list of VCE studies (see page 6) and the list of VCE VET programs (see pages 22 and 23)
• the student profiles in this booklet and advice from others about the program that is best for you.
YEAR 10
YEAR 11
YEAR 12
UNIT 1
UNIT 2
UNIT 3
UNIT 4
13
PRINT
14
During 2014 Sarah’s VCAL studies included: Literacy and Numeracy Skills Reading and Writing Senior, Oral
Communication Senior, Numeracy Skills Senior Industry Specific Skills Certificate II in Business Work Related
Skills Units 1 and 2 Senior Personal Development Skills Units 1 and 2 Senior
SARAH
I started my senior secondary studies enrolled in VCE and doing a traineeship at a bank. I really
enjoyed my traineeship, and developing my skills in a real-world context was an amazing experience.
At the end of Year 11, I decided I wanted a pathway where I could focus on my traineeship and explore
the workforce. I transferred to the VCAL and couldn’t be happier with my decision.
My favourite part of the VCAL was being able to choose my own path, to choose subjects that would
give me the experience I needed for future careers I was interested in.
As part of my VCAL I worked at a school for children with physical and intellectual disabilities. I helped
students develop their reading and writing skills through activities and games, gaining insight into
different ways of learning.
I also completed a placement at a local childcare centre. For one hour, two days a week, I looked after kids up to five years of age.
I enjoyed the responsibility and it was fascinating to see the children’s different stages of development. Helping them at meal times
and reading to them was very rewarding.
I think you become energised when you can go out and do something you really like. VCAL has given me the confidence to be
myself. Through collaborating in teams, acting as a leader and working with professionals, I have found my voice and can make a
contribution. The experiences I have gained through VCAL gave me the push I needed, and I am now applying for jobs I could never
have considered before.
There are a lot of different choices out there that can take you to different places. I’m glad I chose VCAL.
How does VCAL work?
VCAL
VCAL has three levels: Foundation, Intermediate and Senior. You
can start and complete your VCAL at the level that matches your
needs and abilities. Speak to your school if you need help with
making this choice.
VCAL has flexibility and you can work out a program that suits
your interests and learning needs.
What is the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning?
VCAL is a hands-on option for Year 11 and 12 students, offering
practical work-related experience and learning.
When can I do VCAL?
Like VCE, the VCAL is an accredited senior secondary
qualification and is also offered at TAFE and a number of Learn
Local organisations.
You can begin your VCAL program in Year 11 or Year 12 of
secondary school (for some Year 10 students, Foundation VCAL
may be an appropriate course of study).
You can start VCAL in Year 11 or 12, and also do a part-time
apprenticeship or traineeship at the same time. The time it takes
depends on how your VCAL program is structured. A VCAL
qualification is usually completed in one year.
Where can I do the VCAL?
VCAL is offered statewide at schools, TAFE institutes and
Adult Community Education centres. There is a list of all VCAL
providers on the VCAA website.
If you complete VCAL, you can choose several career options,
including: transferring to the VCE; going to TAFE; doing an
apprenticeship or traineeship; and starting a job when school has
finished.
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16
How do I get my VCAL?
To get your VCAL you need to complete 10 units of study from
the four compulsory strands. The strands are areas of learning
and include:
•
•
•
•
iteracy and Numeracy Skills
L
Industry Specific Skills
Work Related Skills
Personal Development Skills.
• at least one unit from the Work Related Skills strand
• at least one unit from the Personal Development Skills strand
• six credits at the VCAL level attempted (Foundation,
Intermediate or Senior) or above. One of these credits must
be for Literacy and one must be for Personal Development
Skills.
How do I get marks for VCAL?
Your teacher or careers counsellor can help you develop a VCAL
program that suits your particular learning needs and interests.
All units in your VCAL program are assessed
by your teacher and/or registered training
organisation (RTO).
What is a VCAL unit of study?
If you include VCE studies in your VCAL, the VCE
section of this booklet has further information on assessment.
A VCAL unit of study can be:
• one VCAL unit
• one VCE unit
• 90 hours for VET modules or units of competence and/or
Further Education (FE) modules.
Each unit of study must be relevant to one of the four VCAL
curriculum strands.
Your VCAL learning program must include:
•
•
•
•
a minimum of two VCAL units
at least one Literacy unit
at least one Numeracy unit
at least one unit from the Industry Specific Skills strand (at
the Intermediate and Senior levels this must include a unit of
study from a VET qualification)
How will I get my results?
You will receive a VCAL certificate for the level (Foundation,
Intermediate or Senior) you chose to complete.
You will receive a Statement of Results from the VCAA, listing
all the VCAL, VCE and VCE VET units you were enrolled in and
completed.
You will also receive a Statement of Attainment from the RTO for
VET or Further Education training that you have completed.
I’ve already started a VET certificate. Will it count
towards my VCAL?
Can part-time work count towards my VCAL?
Part-time work may contribute to your VCAL. Other work
activities that may contribute to your VCAL include:
Yes. You should speak to your teacher or careers counsellor to
work out how much of your previous study counts towards your
VCAL and to plan the rest of your VCAL program.
• a school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship
• voluntary work
• structured workplace learning placements.
I’ve already done a VCE subject. Will this count
towards my VCAL?
VCAL Achievement Awards
If you have an S result for the VCE unit, it may count towards
your VCAL. You should speak to your teacher or careers
counsellor to plan the rest of your VCAL program.
The VCAL Achievement Awards
acknowledge the achievements of
VCAL students, teachers and partner
organisations.
Can I switch to the VCE if I change my mind?
Information about the awards can be found
on the VCAA website.
Yes. If you decide to take this option, discuss it with your teacher
or careers counsellor.
Can I complete a school-based or part-time
apprenticeship or traineeship as part of my VCAL
program?
A school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship can
be good to do as part of your VCAL program, because it can
meet two of the four VCAL curriculum strand requirements:
Industry Specific Skills and Work Related Skills.
See page 24 for more information on apprenticeships and
traineeships.
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18
During 2014 Jaden’s VCAL studies included: Literacy and Numeracy Skills Reading and Writing Senior, Oral
Communication Senior, General Mathematics Unit 2 Industry Specific Skills VCE VET Automotive – Certificate II in
Automotive Studies Work Related Skills Units 1 and 2 Senior Personal Development Skills Units 1 and 2 Senior
JADEN
VCAL was the best choice for me. The hands-on learning engaged me, and I was able to develop skills
in my area of interest and demonstrate my abilities as an applied learner.
An important feature of VCAL is the flexibility for students to connect their interests with their
class projects. One of my hobbies is music so I decided to teach music as a part of my Personal
Development strand. Through my VCAL I have taught more than a dozen students guitar and bass,
helped coordinate a small music festival, and assisted in structuring a music program at my school.
During Year 11, I completed VCE Systems Engineering at a Unit 3 and 4 level for my Industry Skills
strand. I found this was a good opportunity do a Unit 3 and 4 subject in Year 11 to give me more time
in Year 12 to get everything completed.
VCAL has equipped me with many practical and personal skills. I have had many opportunities to meet
new people and this has helped me become more confident, work well in teams and develop my abilities as a leader.
During my VCAL studies I made sure that everything in my life was balanced. This meant making time for my school commitments
including being senior school captain, SRC captain, studying and teaching music, and my out-of-school activities, such as spending
time with friends. It was difficult at the start, but as with everything you learn how to manage it.
The advice I would give to students considering VCAL is to see it as a different way of learning. There is a lot of flexibility within VCAL
and you get more of a say with what you want to do and how you want to direct your own learning. VCAL gives you the opportunity to
express your skills and shine as an individual within your area of personal interest. If you work hard in VCAL, you can achieve your goals.
PLANNING
MY VCAL
PROGRAM
Your school or training provider will help you complete this table to develop a VCAL program that can best meet
your needs, keeping in mind:
•
•
•
•
•
•
VCAL level (your school or training provider can help you decide the best VCAL level for you)
what you would like to do when you finish school/training
which VET programs interest you
which VCE studies you might want to include in your VCAL program
whether you have a part-time job and you want to get credit for your experience at work
your interest in combining work and training (in a school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship).
LITERACY AND NUMERACY
SKILLS STRAND
WORK RELATED
SKILLS STRAND
INDUSTRY SPECIFIC
SKILLS STRAND
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
SKILLS STRAND
VCAL UNITS
VCE UNITS
VCE/VET
PROGRAMS
VET/FURTHER
EDUCATION
PROGRAMS
CREDITS
(for use by school
or provider only)
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YEAR 10 Biology Units 1 and 2 YEAR 11 Chemistry Units 1 and 2, English Language Units 1 and 2, Mathematical
Methods Units 1 and 2, General Maths Units 1 and 2, VCE VET Music – Certificate III in Music Units 1 and 2,
Biology Units 3 and 4 YEAR 12 Chemistry Units 3 and 4, English Language Units 3 and 4, Mathematical Methods
Units 3 and 4, Psychology Units 3 and 4, VCE VET Music – Certificate III in Music Units 3 and 4
GEORGIA
Music is a huge part of my life, but most of my studies revolved around science and maths. Right at
the end of Year 10, I decided that I wanted to do VCE VET Music. It was the perfect subject for me.
Studying VCE VET Music allowed me to experience a subject that was structured differently to most
VCE subjects. Unlike VCE Music Performance, VCE VET Music was more relevant to the style of music
that I play. VCE VET Music allows you to choose any genre and there is no set list of pieces that you
have to study.
VET subjects provide you with industry-based knowledge and hands-on experience. You also gain an
industry-recognised certificate in your chosen area.
Doing a VET subject doesn’t mean you are doing an easy subject; it requires your time and attention.
Everyone studies differently, and you need to find your own way. It really helps if you have been
chipping away at your study rather than cramming on the night before a SAC or final exam. Try not to fall behind, although that is
easier said than done.
Allow extra time to focus on the subjects that are giving you trouble. Also make time for yourself, whether it is watching TV, reading or
spending time with your family and friends.
At the moment I am taking a gap year to look at my options and record my second album. I was also invited to play at the 2015 Top
Class Music and Top Acts concerts. This is a huge accomplishment, and the recognition is steering me towards an arts or music
career.
Being adaptable and flexible along with planning and dedication is important. VCE is a great time to explore your interests. Set
yourself goals and work hard, but remember it’s your choice and it is okay if you change your mind.
If you are interested in a particular area of work, ask your school
about how a VCE VET program in this area will contribute to your
VCE or VCAL.
VET
2. Do a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship
To become an apprentice or trainee you have to be in paid work
and sign a contract of training, which must be registered with the
Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA).
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
in the VCE or VCAL
Your VCE or VCAL program would then include:
• VCE or VCAL studies at school
• vocational training at an RTO (for example a TAFE institute)
• part-time, paid work in the industry in which you are doing
the training.
You can include vocational studies in VCE or VCAL by doing
nationally recognised training in a number of areas. Currently
there are over 20 VCE VET programs to choose from (see the
list on pages 22 and 23). A booklet for each of the VCE VET
programs is available on the VCAA website.
There are many industries in which you can do a school-based
or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship as part of your VCE or
VCAL, including agriculture, automotive, business, community
services, engineering, horticulture, hospitality, information
technology, retail, and sport and recreation.
How do I include VET in my VCE or VCAL?
There are three ways to include VET as part of your VCE or VCAL.
A school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship
qualification contributes to satisfactory completion of the
VCE or VCAL in the same way that VCE VET programs do by
giving credit for Units 1–4. School-based apprenticeships or
traineeships may contribute to an ATAR.
1. Complete a VCE VET program
VCE VET students do vocational training programs as part of
their VCE or VCAL.
VCE VET units will contribute towards satisfactory completion
of your VCE or VCAL and also give you a qualification that is
recognised around Australia.
Ask your school how a school-based or part-time apprenticeship
or traineeship can be organised for you.
VCE VET programs that have Units 3 and 4 can be included in
the calculation of an ATAR by VTAC.
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3. Complete a different vocational training certificate
If you are interested in doing a vocational training certificate that
is not available as a VCE VET program, you may be able to count
this training towards satisfactory completion of your VCE. Block
credit is the name given to this arrangement.
There are specific rules for block credit, so ask your VET or VCE
coordinator for more information to make sure your certificate
will count towards your VCE or VCAL.
How do I get my results?
If you complete a VET qualification in any of these
ways, you will receive a certificate from the RTO
as well as credit toward the VCE or VCAL.
VCE
VET
PROGRAMS IN 2016
Check out the
VET section of
VCAA website.
• Certificate II in Applied
Fashion Design and
Technology
Individual schools may not
offer all these programs. You
may be able to complete
a VET program at another
school or RTO.
Applied Languages
Agriculture, Horticulture
and Conservation and Land
Management
Automotive
• Certificate II in Agriculture
• Certificate II in
Conservation and Land
Management
• Certificate II in Horticulture
(all sectors)
Interested in an
Industry Pathway?
Applied Fashion Design and
Technology
• Certificate II in Applied
Languages
• Certificate III in Applied
Languages
• Certificate II in Automotive
Technology Studies
Building and Construction
• Certificate II in Building
and Construction*
Business
Animal Studies
• Certificate II in Business
• Certificate II in Animal
Studies
Cisco
* Pre-apprenticeship qualifications
• Cisco Networking
Academy Program
Community Services
Health
Interactive Digital Media
• Certificate II in Community
Services*
• Certificate II in Health
Support Services
• Certificate III in Allied
Health Assistance
• Certificate III in Health
Services Assistance
• Certificate II in Creative
Industries (Media)
• Certificate III in Media
Dance
• Certificate II in Dance
Electrical Industry
• Certificate II in
Electrotechnology Studies
• Certificate II in
Electrotechnology (Career
Start)
Engineering
• Certificate II in Engineering
Studies*
Equine Studies
• Certificate II in Equine
Studies
Furnishing
• Certificate II in Furniture
Making
Laboratory Skills
• Certificate III in Laboratory
Skills
Hospitality
Music
• Certificate III in Catering
Operations
• Certificate II in Music
• Certificate III in Music
• Certificate III in Technical
Production
Information Communication
Technology
• Certificate II in Information
Digital Media and
Technology
• Certificate III in Information
Digital Media and
Technology
Small Business
• Certificate II in Small
Business (Operations/
Innovation)
Sport and Recreation
Integrated Technologies
• Certificate II in Outdoor
Recreation
• Certificate II in Sport and
Recreation
• Certificate III in Sport and
Recreation
• Certificate II in Integrated
Technologies
* Pre-apprenticeship qualifications
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APPRENTICESHIPS
AND TRAINEESHIPS
What are apprenticeships and traineeships?
An apprenticeship or traineeship is a pathway to skilled
employment and further training opportunities.
An apprenticeship or traineeship can be undertaken on a full- or
part-time basis or as a school-based arrangement, and can be
used as a valuable stepping stone to a career in one of more
than 500 occupations across a wide range of industries.
To do an apprenticeship or traineeship you must have a job with
an employer. Apprentices and trainees learn industry skills by
combining paid work with training through an RTO such as a
TAFE institute or private training provider.
The training leads to a vocational qualification, ranging from a
Certificate I to an Advanced Diploma level, and is recognised
throughout Australia. To find out all there is to know about
apprenticeships and traineeships visit the Department of
Education and Training (DET) website: www.education.vic.gov.
au/training/employers/apprentices/Pages/default.aspx
What is an apprenticeship?
For an apprenticeship, an employer agrees to employ you for the
term of the apprenticeship and to support you in your training for
that period of time.
An apprenticeship leads to becoming a tradesperson, such as a
plumber, a carpenter, an electrician or a hairdresser.
What is a traineeship?
For a traineeship, an employer agrees to employ you for the term
of the traineeship and to support you in your training for that
period of time.
A traineeship leads to an occupation, such as a childcare
worker, a business administrator, or a retail or hospitality service
employee.
Victorian Skills Gateway
The Victorian Skills Gateway is a one-stop shop to help you
choose the industry and occupation for your apprenticeship or
traineeship, identify a course and find
an RTO.
Victorian Skills Gateway: www.education.
vic.gov.au/victorianskillsgateway/Pages/
home.aspx
Are there different ways of doing an apprenticeship
and traineeship?
An SBAT requires approximately two days a week, consisting
of both training and employment. An SBAT contributes towards
your VCE or VCAL, leads to a nationally recognised qualification
and includes paid work.
Yes, while still at school you can:
•
•
•
do a school-based apprenticeship or
traineeship (SBAT)
do a part-time apprenticeship or
traineeship outside school hours
do a pre-apprenticeship to prepare you for
an apprenticeship.
If you would like further information about doing an SBAT,
visit the DET website: www.education.vic.gov.au/training/
employers/apprentices/Pages/parttime.aspx
What are pre-apprenticeships?
Once you have left school you can:
A pre-apprenticeship is a course of training completed before you
undertake an apprenticeship. Pre-apprenticeship courses may be
undertaken part-time while you are still at school, as part of your
VCE or VCAL studies. You can also undertake a pre-apprenticeship
after you have completed school.
• convert your SBAT to a full or part-time apprenticeship
or traineeship until it is complete, or finish the part-time
apprenticeship or traineeship that you began while at school
• do a full- or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship
• do a pre-apprenticeship to prepare you for an apprenticeship.
A pre-apprenticeship course is a great opportunity to get into
the industry of your choice. Completion of a pre-apprenticeship
course will help to:
What are school-based apprenticeships and
traineeships?
• give you some basic skills, or improve your existing skills
• pave the way for the learning you will get as part of your
apprenticeship
• provide a ‘feel’ for your chosen industry and prepare you for
work.
If you are enrolled in the VCE or VCAL, an SBAT can offer you the
opportunity to combine school with part-time employment and
VET. An SBAT becomes part of your senior secondary school
program and your school study timetable.
There are pre-apprenticeships available for a variety of trades in
the following industries: automotive, building and construction,
electrotechnology and communications, metals and engineering,
and hairdressing. Some of these pre-apprenticeships are the same
as the VCE VET programs in those industries.
A number of people are involved in arranging an SBAT, including
you, your parents, the employer, the RTO, your school and an
Australian Apprenticeship Centre.
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YEAR 10 VCE VET Health – Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance Units 3 and 4, Industry and Enterprise Unit 1
YEAR 11 Biology Units 1 and 2, English Units 1 and 2, Health and Human Development Units 1 and 2, General Mathematics
Units 1 and 2, Religion and Society Units 1 and 2, VCE VET Health – Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance Units 3 and 4
YEAR 12 Business Management Units 3 and 4, English Units 3 and 4, Health and Human Development Units 3 and 4,
Further Mathematics Units 3 and 4, Certificate III in Aged Care
CAITLIN
I saw my VCE as an opportunity to explore my interests and try something new. Thinking about my
options early gave me direction and made the transition into VCE easier.
Having aspired to be a nurse from a young age, I wanted to choose studies that could enhance my
knowledge of health-related fields and help me develop skills for the future.
When selecting my subjects I found it useful to ask for advice. I spoke to older students about their
VCE experiences and discussed my interests with the careers counsellor at my school. My careers
counsellor suggested that I try hands-on work in the field of my interest.
I completed a VET Allied Health course, where I spent one day each fortnight at a hospital learning
theory and practical skills. Afterwards I wasn’t ready to stop doing hands-on work. I decided to do
a school-based apprenticeship in aged care to see what other health areas were out there. I had an
interview with the manager of the facility and I began working there before I had even started Year 12.
My school-based apprenticeship was one of the most rewarding things I have done and I would highly recommend it to other students.
You learn practical skills in a real-world context and the experience can help confirm what area you would like to work in after school.
It made me realise that I have a passion for caring for the elderly, and it also provided me with a job that I still have now.
My strategies for managing my studies evolved as I adapted to the workload. Preparation was very important. I dedicated time to
independent study and made revision books for each subject. This created a glossary of all my knowledge that I could review nightly.
A healthy mix of all aspects of life was also essential. I wanted to work hard during my VCE and make the most of it. I achieved
a balance of work, study, socialising and exercise through planning. This helped me keep a clear and positive mind set, which
improved my study.
How do part-time apprenticeships and traineeships
differ from an SBAT?
To start a pre-apprenticeship you can visit the Victorian Skills
Gateway to choose a pre-apprenticeship course and to find an
RTO that offers it.
Part-time apprenticeships and traineeships may be undertaken by
school students outside of school hours.
You can also visit the Australian Apprenticeships Pathways website
to search for pre-apprenticeship courses by locality and industry:
www.aapathways.com.au/pcf
For school-enrolled students in these ‘part-time’ arrangements,
both the training and employment must be independent of the
school program and the school is not required to:
What is the difference between a pre-apprenticeship
and an apprenticeship?
• sign off on a training plan
• integrate your employment or training into the school
timetable.
Unlike apprenticeships, students undertaking a preapprenticeship do not have a job with an employer. When
you have successfully finished a pre-apprenticeship course,
the RTO may be able to help you find an employer to start an
apprenticeship. If you do find employment as an apprentice,
completion of a pre-apprenticeship may reduce the duration of
your apprenticeship.
An SBAT is funded under the Victorian Training Guarantee (VTG).
This training will not affect your future eligibility for funded training
under the VTG.
Part-time apprenticeships and traineeships not integrated into
the school program (that is, on weekends or after school hours)
are not funded by the government under the VTG. This does not
prevent an employer directly subsidising your training.
What is the difference between doing a VCE VET
program and an apprenticeship or traineeship?
To find out more about the VTG eligibility criteria and about how
funding is applied, visit the DET website: www.education.vic.gov.
au/training/learners/vet/pages/funding.aspx
Both programs offer a nationally recognised qualification. They
are simply different pathways to get your qualification.
A VCE VET program may require a structured workplace learning
placement, as well as training. You will not be entitled to wages
for your work placement. Generally, the work placement will be
up to 40 days. This differs from the employment relationship
required as part of an apprenticeship or traineeship.
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What is competency-based completion?
Apprenticeships in Victoria are competency based. This means
your apprenticeship is complete once your RTO has assessed
that you meet all the required competencies for the qualification
and your employer confirms that you are competent in the
workplace.
The length of an apprenticeship will differ for each apprentice or
trainee based on your previous experience and training and how
quickly you learn the skills needed for the trade.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), for skills you have already
gained through earlier training or experience, and Credit Transfer,
for related qualifications (such as a pre-apprenticeship) may
reduce the amount of training you need to do and shorten your
apprenticeship or traineeship.
Your RTO will identify any RPL and Credit Transfer as part of
developing a training plan with you and your employer at the
start of your apprenticeship or traineeship. Your training plan is a
‘living document’ that will change to reflect your progress as you
move through your apprenticeship or traineeship.
I have decided to do an apprenticeship
or traineeship …
You have taken the opportunity to ‘earn while you learn’. When
you have finished your apprenticeship or traineeship, you will
have a nationally recognised qualification and the skills for a
successful career in your chosen field.
Step one:
• Find out what apprenticeships and traineeships are available
by:
−− visiting the Victorian Skills Gateway
−− speaking to your school career counsellor, parents or
guardians.
Step two:
• Choose an apprenticeship or traineeship in the industry that
is right for you.
• Consider undertaking a pre-apprenticeship to get a better
understanding of the industry and show potential employers
that you are keen.
Step three:
• F
ind an employer by:
−− visiting the internet jobs database: www.jobsearch.gov.au
−− speaking to your local RTO
−− writing to or approaching employers directly
−− asking your school careers counsellor
These are some of the terms used
throughout this booklet and how they
relate to the VCE and VCAL.
−− s peaking to the RTO at which you did your preapprenticeship (if you chose to do one)
−− contacting Group Training Australia on 1800 819 747. A
Group Training Organisation employs an apprentice or
trainee and places them with a host employer.
GLOSSARY
Step four:
Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR)
• S
ign a training contract with an employer and start work.
• Establish a training plan between you, your employer and an
RTO, and start training.
This is the overall ranking on a scale of 0.00 to 99.95 that
you receive, based on your study scores. The ATAR is used
by universities and TAFE institutes to select students for their
courses. It used to be called an ENTER.
Real stories
Find out how an apprenticeship can lead to a
successful and rewarding career by watching videos
on the following websites:
Department of Education and Training (DET)
• V
ictorian Skills Gateway: www.education.vic.gov.au/
victorianskillsgateway/Pages/home.aspx
• DET Facebook: www.facebook.com/realskillsvictoria
General Achievement Test (GAT)
The Victorian government department that administers school
education, apprenticeships and traineeships.
The test that is done by all students doing a VCE Unit 3 and 4
sequence or a scored VCE VET Unit 3 and 4 sequence.
Outcomes
What you are expected to know and be able to do by the time
you have finished a VCE unit.
Registered training organisation (RTO)
An institution that has been approved by the Victorian
Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) to deliver
specified training programs.
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30
Satisfactory completion
This means you have achieved the outcomes for the unit. You
get an S for the satisfactory completion of a unit. If you do not
satisfactorily complete a unit, you get an N for it.
Semester
Half of the academic year. Most units last for one semester. In
the VCE, Unit 3 is completed in the first semester and Unit 4 is
completed in the second semester.
Sequence
The order in which you do your VCE units, for example a Unit 3
and 4 sequence.
Statement of Attainment
A record of recognised learning that may contribute towards a
qualification in the VET sector.
Statement of Results
A set of documents that formally state the results you received
in the VCE or VCAL, and whether you have been awarded the
relevant certificate.
Studies
The subjects available in the VCE.
Study score
A score that can be as high as 50, and shows how you
performed in a VCE study or scored VCE VET program, relative
to all other students doing that same study. It is calculated using
the scores achieved in each of the three graded assessments for
the study.
Technical and further education (TAFE)
TAFE institutes offer a range of mainly vocational tertiary
education courses up to the level of advanced diploma.
Units (VCAL)
Accredited units in Literacy and Numeracy Skills, Industry
Specific Skills, Personal Development Skills and Work Related
Skills that contribute towards the VCAL.
Units (VCE)
The parts of a study in the VCE. There are usually four units in a
study: Units 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA)
The Victorian government agency responsible to the Minister for
Education for the management of the VCE and VCAL.
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
This refers to nationally recognised vocational training.
Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)
VTAC is responsible for calculating and distributing the ATAR
and for processing student applications for tertiary entrance
to universities, TAFE institutes and other Further Education
colleges.
THE SMALL
PRINT
Authorised and published by the Victorian Curriculum and
Assessment Authority
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Melbourne VIC 3000
ISBN 978-1-922082-90-9
© Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority 2015
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to: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Pages/aboutus/policies/policy-copyright.aspx
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Details of updates can be found on the VCAA website: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
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Copyright in materials appearing at any sites linked to this document rests with
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