What is VET (Vocational Education and Training)?
VET (Vocational Education and Training) gives you the chance to learn practical, job-ready skills while still at school.
VET Delivered to School Students (VDSS) means you can complete a TAFE-level course and work towards a nationally recognised qualification alongside your VCE or VCE VM.
It’s a great way to combine school learning with real-world skills.
Why Choose a VET Subject?
By studying a VCE VET certificate, you can:
- Work towards your VCE or VCE VM and a TAFE qualification at the same time
- Gain a Certificate II or III in a specific industry
- Build real-world employability skills in your chosen industry, as well as:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Organisation
- Technology skills
- Workplace safety (OH&S)
You’ll also gain experience that can lead to:
- Employment
- Further TAFE study
- University pathways
How VET Fits Into VCE
- VET certificates count towards your VCE or VCE VM
- They have the same status as other VCE subjects
- You can start VET in Year 10 or Year 11
ATAR Contribution
- Some VET subjects are Scored:
- Include coursework + an exam
- Can count as one of your top 4 subjects
- Some VET subjects are Non-Scored:
- No final exam
- Still contribute to your ATAR as a 5th or 6th subject increment
Either way, they still support your VCE completion.
What You’ll Gain
- Experience in a TAFE-style learning environment
- An industry-recognised qualification
- A head start if you continue in that field after Year 12
- A stronger resume if you go straight into work
Requirements
- Classes may be scheduled outside normal school hours and may include offsite practical assessments and/or industry-based activities.
- Students may be required to complete an audition as part of the selection process for entry into this certificate.
- Some courses require students to purchase and wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for practical classes. Students who do not attend in the correct PPE may be removed from class due to workplace safety requirements.
- Students are required to bring a fully charged laptop to every VET class.
- Students enrolled in a VCE VET program must successfully complete the LLN (Literacy and Numeracy) assessment to participate in the course.
- Successful completion of all units of competency is required to achieve the full certificate qualification.
- Students must successfully complete all Year One units before progressing to the second year of the program.
Things to Consider
VET is a great opportunity, but it’s a serious commitment.
You should know:
- It adds to your overall workload, like any other subject
- Even practical courses include a theory component
- You’ll need to complete some independent/self-paced work
- You must apply through the online VET application process
- Some costs may apply depending on the certificate
- Regular attendance at all classes is essential to successfully develop and demonstrate the practical skills required for this certificate.
This is not an “easy option”, it requires motivation and commitment.
Important Rules
- You generally need to complete Units 1 & 2 before Units 3 & 4 in a VET course
- You can choose to:
- Continue the full program
- Or exit after the first year
Is VET Right for You?
VET is a great choice if you:
- Enjoy hands-on learning
- Want practical skills for work
- Are interested in a specific industry
- Are committed to attending all VET classes, practical sessions and course-related activities.
- Want a pathway into TAFE or an apprenticeship/traineeship
Need Help Choosing?
Choosing the right subjects matters.
- The Careers & Pathways Team at Fountain Gate Secondary College can help you:
- Understand your options
- Explore career pathways
- Choose subjects that match your goals
