What is VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM)?
The VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) is a hands-on, practical pathway within the VCE, designed for students in Years 11 and 12 who prefer learning by doing.
It focuses on real-world skills and prepares you for:
- Apprenticeships or traineeships
- TAFE or further training
- Employment
- University (through alternative pathways)
VCE VM is not ATAR-based and does not involve external exams (you will still complete the GAT).
How VCE VM Works
- A 2-year program (Years 11 & 12)
- Learning is practical, applied, and project-based
- Assessment is completed at school (no external exams)
Core Subjects
You will study:
- Literacy (or English/EAL/Literature options)
- Numeracy (Maths)
- Work-Related Skills (WRS)
- Personal Development Skills (PDS)
You will also complete:
- VET (Vocational Education & Training)
- Structured Workplace Learning (SWL)
What You Need to Complete VCE VM
To successfully complete the VCE VM, you must complete at least 16 units, including:
- 3 Literacy/English units (must include Units 3 & 4)
- 3 additional Unit 3 & 4 sequences
- Units from:
- Numeracy (Maths)
- Work-Related Skills
- Personal Development Skills
- Minimum 180 hours of VET (Certificate II or above)
You will receive:
- VCE Vocational Major Certificate
- VET Statement of Attainment
- Statement of Results
What Does the Program Look Like?
Year 11 Example
Typically, a 3-day school program, including:
- Literacy
- Numeracy
- Personal Development Skills
- Work-Related Skills
- VET (internal or external)
- Community Project
- Structured Workplace Learning (SWL)
Year 12 Example
Also, a 3-day program, including:
- Literacy
- Numeracy
- Personal Development Skills
- Work-Related Skills
- VET
- Structured Workplace Learning
What You’ll Learn
Literacy
Build reading, writing, and communication skills
Work with real-world texts (e.g. workplace documents, media, forms)
Develop confidence in expressing ideas and opinions
Numeracy
- Develop practical maths skills for everyday life and the workplace
- Apply numeracy to real-world situations such as budgeting, measurement, data interpretation, and problem-solving
- Build confidence using mathematical concepts in personal, community, and employment settings
- Use digital tools and technology to collect, analyse, and communicate information
- Strengthen the numeracy skills needed for further training, employment, and independent living
- Learn about the workplace and future jobs
- Build employability skills
- Plan your career pathway
- Develop a personal portfolio
Personal Development Skills (PDS)
- Focus on wellbeing, identity, and community
- Set goals and build confidence
- Develop teamwork and leadership skills
- Work on real-life projects
Structured Workplace Learning (SWL)
- SWL is a compulsory part of VCE VM.
- It’s a real work placement where you:
- Gain hands-on experience
- Build skills in a real workplace
- Connect your learning to your VET course
- Develop confidence and independence
You will need to:
- Find your own placement
- Complete placement in the same industry as your VET course
- Be prepared to travel (costs may apply)
Important Things to Know
VCE VM might be right for you if:
- You don’t need an ATAR
- You prefer practical, hands-on learning
- You’re interested in apprenticeships, TAFE, or work
You need to be prepared to:
- Complete 180 hours of VET each year
- Attend school, VET, and work placements regularly
- Work independently at times
- Complete both practical and some written/theory tasks
Work Experience in Year 10 is usually required before starting.
Costs & Travel
- VET courses are partly funded, but some costs may apply
- You may need to travel to your VET provider or workplace
Getting Started
If you’re interested in VCE VM:
- Complete the Expression of Interest form
- Discuss your pathway during course counselling
- Speak with the VCE VM Coordinator
Final Thought
VCE VM is a great option if you want:
- Real-world learning
- Practical skills
- A clear pathway into work or training
It’s all about building skills for life—not just exams.
