Written by
Ava Akbarian
The changes combine the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL). The new senior secondary school certificates aim to ensure every young Victorian receives the education for their desired career.
“We know not everyone wants to go to university so we’re making sure every young person has every opportunity to choose the career path that’s right for them.” Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria
“We know not everyone wants to go to university so we’re making sure every young person has every opportunity to choose the career path that’s right for them.”
Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria
From 2023, VCAL will be replaced with the new ‘VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate’.
The transition process is taking place through two main stages.
From 2023, Intermediate and Senior VCAL will be replaced with the new ‘VCE Vocational Major’ (VM).
The VM is a ‘vocational and applied learning program’, within the VCE.
This will provide students with flexibility to pursue apprenticeships, traineeships, further education and training, non-ATAR university pathways or enter straight into the workforce.
Specific studies will include:
Foundation VCAL will be replaced by the new ‘Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC)’. This is designed to help students transition into the VCE Vocational Major or entry-level VET employment.
This is suitable for students who have had disrupted schooling experiences and are at risk of disengaging from their education. This may include students who have missed significant learning or students with additional needs.
These changes will amount to a fully integrated ‘senior secondary certificate’ by 2025.
Most non-government schools have begun preparing for the transitioning process.
The Catholic and independent sectors have shown a strong interest as non-government schools are encouraged and supported to provide the new certificates.
The Victoria State Government announced that the changes may save Victorian families up to $1000 in ‘out-of-pocket’ costs.
Students are no longer required to pay for VET studies learning materials.
The Victorian Budget is investing $277.5 million to cater to the increased demand for careers in trades and services.
Careers in trades and services are just that – careers – with good pay, and secure jobs. And they’re the jobs we need people doing. Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria
Careers in trades and services are just that – careers – with good pay, and secure jobs. And they’re the jobs we need people doing.
The real-life experience equips students for an understanding of potential future career pathways.
The Minister for Education, James Merlino believes the pathway has the same value as other post-secondary options.
“Study towards the important jobs that build and care for our state has the same value as any other education after school – and more young Victorians than ever before are pursuing careers in booming trades and services.”
The new program allows students to complete their senior secondary study whilst learning vocational skills.
Students will no longer have to wait till after high school or drop out to prepare for career pathways after school.
Students in 2022 are not subject to the changes to the existing certificate. They are still able to enrol in the VCAL or VCE.
Current students undergoing VCAL units may receive credit for the VM or VPC in 2023.
About
Ava works as a Digital Writer for School Choice Magazine as well as a a contributor to the annual ‘Choosing a School Magazine’.