VCE Vocational Major Information
What is the VCE Vocational Major (VM)?
The VCE Vocational Major is a new vocational and applied learning program that sits within the VCE. It takes what is called an ‘Applied Learning approach’ and shares many similarities with our existing VCAL program. The VCE VM will be delivered at TC on a Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Students will attend their Vocational Education and Training (VET) internally or externally on a Wednesday and are expected to undertake Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) on a Friday.
Applied learning involves students engaging in relevant and authentic learning experiences. It is a method of learning where theoretical information comes to life for students in a real-world context that relates directly to their own future, is within their own control and is within an environment where they feel safe and respected. Students' knowledge grows and expands as they take action to learn, reflect on that action, and plan how to improve it in the future.
The VCE Vocational Major is the replacement for the Intermediate and Senior VCAL. It is a two-year program over years 11 and 12.
The VCE Vocational Major will prepare students to move successfully into apprenticeships, traineeships, further education and training, university through alternative entry programs or directly into the workforce. There are no external examinations for the VCE VM studies and therefore students do not receive a study score and are not eligible to receive an ATAR.
Students who have completed the satisfactory completion requirements of the VCE VM will receive a Victorian Certificate of Education with the words “Vocational Major” on it to recognise their achievements.
Students should consider a VCE Vocational Major pathway if…
they are in their final two years at TC (Year 11 or 12)
they are looking at beginning an apprenticeship, TAFE or employment pathway
they have a clear pathway in mind (that does not require an ATAR)
they would benefit from gaining industry work experience (SWL)
they are mature enough to manage a more complex timetable (3 days at TC, 1 day at VET and 1-day SWL)
How is the VCE VM Structured?
The VCE Vocational Major has specific subjects designed to prepare students for a vocational pathway. The subjects are…
VCE VM Literacy
Numeracy (Foundation VCE Maths or higher)
VCE VM Work Related Skills (WRS)
VCE VM Personal Development Skills (PDS)
180 hours of Vocational Education and Training (VET) at Certificate II level or above).
Each subject has four units and each unit has a set of outcomes that are assessed through a range of learning activities and tasks.
Students will apply knowledge and skills in practical settings and also undertake community-based activities and projects that involve working in a team.
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What do I have to do to get my VCE VM?
Students must successfully finish at least 16 units, including:
3 VCE VM Literacy or VCE English units (including a Unit 3–4 sequence)
3 other Unit 3-4 sequences
Units 1 - 4 of VCE Mathematics units
Units 1 - 4 VCE VM Work Related Skills (WRS) units
Units 1 - 4 VCE VM Personal Development Skills (PDS) units, and
A minimum of 2 VET credits at Certificate II level or above (180 hours)
Who decides if I have satisfactorily completed a VCE or VCE VM unit?
The result of Satisfactory or Not Satisfactory is determined at a school level for each unit. This decision is based on the work submitted and must follow the VCAA, and school, rules and procedures.
Can I participate in Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) or a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT) as a part of the VCE VM?
Yes, SWL or an SBAT can be included in the VCE VM. Students can receive credit for time in the workplace via Structured Workplace Learning Recognition.
VCE VM Application Process
ALL VCE VM applicants must submit a VCE VM Application Form
VCE VM Applications will open Monday 13 June and close on Friday 14 July. Applications received after this date will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
As previously mentioned, students must also submit a VET application as part of the VCE VM application process. VET information and a link to the VET application form can be found here.
We will invite all VCE VM applicants and their parents/guardians to attend an interview. This will be used to assess the applicant’s suitability to the program. A panel will review the application and communicate the outcome.
If successful, a provisional place will be offered. However, if the panel feels that it isn’t the right pathway at this time, a pathways meeting will be scheduled with Olivia Bontempelli to identify and discuss suitable alternatives.
Please note that places in the VCE VM may be limited. Please ensure you submit a VCE VM and VET application before the closing dates and prepare for and attend your VCE VM interview, as this will provide you with the best possible chance of securing a place in the VCE VM stream.
Please contact Liam O’Neill (LONE@tc.vic.edu.au) if you have any further questions.
