guide to the vce, vcal and apprenticeships and ......apprenticeship or traineeship combines...
TRANSCRIPT
Guide to the VCE, VCAL
and Apprenticeships and
Traineeships for 2013
ISBN 978-1-921702-62-4
© Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority 2012
No part of this publication may be reproduced except as specified under the Copyright Act 1968 or by permission from the VCAA.
For more information go to: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/aboutus/policies/policy-copyright.html
The VCAA provides the only official, up-to-date versions of VCAA publications. Details of updates can be found on the VCAA website: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
This publication may contain copyright material belonging to a third-party. Every effort has been made to contact all copyright owners. If you believe that material
in this publication is an infringement of your copyright please email the Copyright Officer: [email protected]
Published by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority
41 St Andrews Place, East Melbourne, Victoria 3002
www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
Correspondence relating to this publication should be addressed to: Information Services, VCAA, c/o above address
The information in this book is available in languages other than English on the VCAA website: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
Senior Secondary Certificates
Victorian Certificate of Education
About the VCE P3
About VET P4
What must I do to get my VCE? P5
About the GAT P9
How are results reported? P10
Other things I might like to know P11
Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning
About the VCAL P16
What I need to know P16
What do I study? P17
What counts towards my VCAL? P18
How is the VCAL assessed? P19
What must I do to get my VCAL? P19
How are results reported? P19
Where can the VCAL take me? P19
Apprenticeships and Traineeships
What are apprenticeships and traineeships? P21
How do I get started? P22
What courses are available? P23
Planning Planning your VCE program P14
Planning your VCAL learning program P15
Learning Pathways P20
Success Stories
VCE P3, 5, 8–13
VCAL P16–18
Apprenticeships and Traineeships P21
Glossary P24
CONTENTS
The Victorian Certificate of Education. Within the VCE there
is a choice of over 90 studies available.
The VCE provides pathways to further training and work and is
the most commonly accepted way to gain entry to tertiary study.
The VCE may include Vocational Education and Training (VET).
The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning. The VCAL
focuses on applied learning and develops knowledge and skills
that will prepare students for further training and employment.
The VCAL may include Vocational Education and Training (VET).
Apprenticeships and Traineeships. Apprenticeships
and traineeships, including School-based Apprenticeships
or Traineeships are available in over 800 qualifications. An
apprenticeship or traineeship combines employment (part-time
or full-time) and training to achieve a nationally recognised VET
qualification which can contribute to your VCE or VCAL.
P2
Hon. Martin Dixon, MP Minister for Education
WELCOMECongratulations on reaching your final years of secondary school. There are so many exciting options available to young people today and this book will help you to navigate through them.
There has never been a better time to study in Victoria’s schools. Just as every student is different, our school
system offers a range of diverse choices.
As the case studies in this book show, there are numerous study options available – from straight academic classes to hands-on trade training, school-based apprenticeships and vocational training.
I encourage you to read this guide and discuss your options with teachers, family and friends, so you can make the best decision for your future.
The study choices you make will help shape your future education and career opportunities.
Whatever you decide, I wish you the very best for your final years of school and beyond.
I hope you find this booklet a practical and inspiring resource.
Rachel Leung provided the design concept for this edition of Where to Now? Guide to the VCE, VCAL and Apprenticeships and Traineeships. Rachel graduated from East Doncaster Secondary College in 2010 where her VCE program included Visual Communication and Design. Rachel was among a group of Top Designs applicants who were invited to submit a concept for this book. Top Designs is part of the VCE Season of Excellence, which is managed by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA). Rachel was invited to work alongside the VCAA’s desktop publishing staff, who developed her concept into the design of this book. Rachel is now studying for a double degree in Engineering and Industrial Design at Monash University.
guide to the vce, vcal and
apprenticeships and
traineeships for 2012
P3
YEAR 10
YEAR 11YEAR 12
WELCOME About the VCEWhat is the VCE?
The VCE is the certificate that most students in Victoria receive on satisfactory completion of their secondary education. It is an outstanding qualification that is recognised around the world. The VCE provides diverse pathways to further study or training at university or TAFE and to employment.
When can I start my VCE?
The VCE is usually done in Years 11 and 12 but can be started in Year 10. About half of Victorian Year 10 students take some VCE units.
What studies can I choose?
There are over 90 VCE studies, or subjects, and over 30 VCE VET programs to choose from. You will find complete lists of VCE studies on page 6 and VCE VET programs on page 7. The VCE VET programs can also provide a nationally recognised industry qualification.
What can I choose from at my school?
Each school decides what VCE studies and VCE VET programs it will offer.
Your school will advise you on subject choice and if a VCE subject that interests you is not available it may be possible to do it outside school, for example at:
• DistanceEducationVictoria(www.distance.vic.edu.au)
• VictorianSchoolofLanguages(www.vsl.vic.edu.au).
What should I consider when choosing my studies?
When making your choice you should consider studies that:
• interestyou
• youaregoodat
• leadtoajobthatinterestsyou
• prepareyouforfurthertrainingortertiarycourses.
You should speak to your careers counsellor before making a final decision.
VCE.BRIDGETstudy type na
me
.2011year of study
. ENGLISH . HISTORY: PEOPLE AND POWER (Unit 2 only). LITERATURE .FRENCH . GENERAL MATHEMATICS (Unit 2 only) . MATHEMATICAL METHODS (CAS) (Unit 1 only). VISUAL COMMUNICATION & DESIGN (Unit 1 only). DRAMA
ENGLISH.HISTORY: REVOLUTIONS .
LITERATURE .FURTHER MATHEMATICS.
PSYCHOLOGY.DRAMA (Unit 2 only).
INDUSTRY AND ENTERPRISE. (Unit 1 only)
Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4.
BRIDG
ET’S JOU
RNEY
Bridget’s advice to future VCE students is: ‘Choose subjects you enjoy. A lot of my friends picked ones that they hoped would get them high scores and they didn’t enjoy Year 12 as much as I did.’
Bridget chose a broad range of VCE studies at Kyabram P–12 College. They included her favourite – Drama – which made for a very enjoyable two years.
When she visited France in Year 8, Bridget became interested in learning the language. She was also keen to know more about the history of the country so studying VCE French and History Revolutions was a way of combining the two interests. She believes that ‘it is important for young people to learn about other cultures’.
Her strategy for studying a wide range of subjects was to create posters and charts – all colour-coded – and display them around the house. Whenever she was at home they prompted her memory, and her family also learned a lot in the process.
This year Bridget has moved to Melbourne to study stage management at the Victorian College of the Arts (University of Melbourne). She is very excited about being able to follow her passion and hopes that finding theatre work in Europe will one day allow her to travel overseas.
She encourages others to remember that in Year 12 students can be under a lot of pressure, especially if they are in a school leadership position as she was. Bridget says, ‘I just needed a VCE pass for my course but I was still aware of other people’s expectations for me to do well.’ Her opinion is that this can be a good thing if it motivates students but they need to find their own ways of coping.
Her final tip is: ‘Appreciate your teachers. They are your best resource and can become your best friends.’
P4
About VETThere are three ways to include VET as part of your VCE. If you complete a VET qualification in any of these ways you will receive a certificate from the RTO as well as credit in the VCE.
1. VCE VET Programs
VCE VET students do vocational training programs as part of their VCE. Currently there are over 30 VCE VET programs to choose from (see the list on page 7). A program booklet for each of the VCE VET programs is available on the VCAA website at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
VCE VET will contribute towards satisfactory completion of your VCE and also give you a qualification that is recognised around Australia. It can also lead to further training, for example at a TAFE institute.
VCE VET programs that have Units 3 and 4 can be included in the calculation of the ATAR by VTAC.
If you are interested in a particular area of work, ask your school VCE or VET coordinator how a VCE VET program in this area will contribute to your VCE.
2. School-based Apprenticeships or Traineeships
School-based apprenticeships or traineeships are another way for vocational training to contribute towards your VCE. To become an apprentice or trainee you have to be in paid work and sign a contract of training, which must be registered with DEECD. Your VCE program would then include:
• VCE 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.
Currently there are ten industries where you can do a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship as part of your VCE (see the list on page 8). There are many other industry areas available for both school-based or part-time apprenticeships and traineeships.
A School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship qualification contributes to satisfactory completion of the VCE in the same way that VCE VET programs do by giving credit at Units 1–4. School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship programs contribute to the ATAR in the same way that VCE VET programs do.
Ask your school how a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship can be set up for you.
VCE VET and School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship programs can also be part of a student’s VCAL learning program. VCAL is explained later in this guide.
How is the VCE organised?
A VCE study is made up of units. A unit is half a year, or one semester, in length. Units 1 and 2 can be taken as single units – that is, just the Unit 1 or just the Unit 2 – but Units 3 and 4 must be taken as a sequence of two units and in the one year.
A VCE program will generally consist of 20 to 24 units taken over two years, although you can vary the number of units that you do in one year. You may take more than two years to complete your VCE.
Units 3 and 4 are normally taken in your final year at school. If you are planning to take Units 3 and 4 studies in Year 11, remember that these are more difficult than Units 1 and 2.
What must I do to get my VCE certificate?
To get your VCE, you must satisfactorily complete at least 16 units.
Regardless of how many units you do altogether, you must satisfactorily complete:
• at least three units from the following English Group*:
- Foundation English Units 1 and 2 - English Units 1–4 - English as an Additional Language (EAL) Units 3 and 4 - English Language Units 1–4 - Literature Units 1–4
* of these three units at least one must be from Units 3 and 4
• three sequences of Units 3 and 4 studies in addition to meeting the English requirement. These sequences can be from VCE studies and/or VCE VET programs.
How do I get an ATAR?An ATAR is calculated by VTAC using VCE study scores. VTAC uses the ATAR in the process of offering university places. To get an ATAR you must complete both Units 3 and 4 of an English study (from the group above) and three other Units 3 and 4 studies in addition to the English requirement. You must also get a study score for these. VTAC places restrictions on certain combinations of VCE and VET studies so if you intend to apply for an ATAR at the end of your VCE talk to your VCE coordinator about these rules.
P5
3. Block Credit
If you are interested in doing a vocational training certificate that is not available as a VCE VET program or a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship, it is possible you may be able to count this training towards satisfactory completion of your VCE.
Block credit is the name given to this arrangement. Ask your VET or VCE coordinator for more information about the rules for block credit.
What must I do to get my VCE?To get the VCE you need to satisfy the VCE program requirements described on page 4.
Your school will decide whether or not you have satisfactorily completed the units in your VCE program. Satisfactory completion is reported as an ‘S’. Not meeting the requirements for satisfactory completion is reported as an ‘N’.
Each unit of VCE study has a set of outcomes that must be achieved in order to get an ‘S’ result for that unit. The outcomes describe what you are expected to know and be able to do by the time you have completed the unit. Outcomes include key knowledge and skills. Each unit of a VCE study has between two and four outcomes.
How will I be assessed in Units 1 and 2?
Assessment in Units 1 and 2 is school-based. Your teachers will set a range of assessment tasks to see how you are progressing. These tasks will have deadlines and you need to have a very good reason for extending a deadline, so you should plan well to get all your work done on time. If you fail to meet your school’s deadlines, you may not satisfactorily complete a unit.
For Units 1 and 2, as well as giving you an ‘S’ or ‘N’ for units some schools may also give you a grade for your assessment tasks. These grades will not be reported to the VCAA.
How will I be assessed in Units 3 and 4?
For Units 3 and 4, you will get grades for your assessment tasks as well as the ‘S’ or ‘N’ for the satisfactory completion of a unit.
In each VCE study there are three graded assessments at the Units 3 and 4 level, which consist of two school assessments and one examination (with the exception of Mathematics, which has two end-of-year examinations).
Every VCE study has at least one examination.
VCE.JAKEstudy type na
me
.2011year of study
YEAR 11
YEAR 12BIOLOGY.
ENGLISH.
HEALTH AND HUMAN. DEVELOPMENT
GENERAL MATHEMATICS. (Unit 2 only)
MATHEMATICAL METHODS.(CAS) (Unit 1 only)
OUTDOOR RECREATION. (VCE VET)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION.
. ENGLISH . HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT . FURTHER MATHEMATICS . OUTDOOR RECREATION (VCE VET) . PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4. JA
KE’S JO
URN
EYJake describes himself as an active young man who loves sport. When he was doing his VCE homework he would study for 20 minutes and then take a 20-minute break. He found that worked well and recommends it to others who find it hard to sit in front of books for several hours at a time.
He plays several sports so it’s not surprising that he chose Physical Education as one of his VCE subjects. He also enrolled in the VCE VET program Outdoor Recreation, where he enjoyed the practical approach: students could complete tasks in their own time frame and this provided a balance with his VCE studies.
‘The VET program was more like real life and I liked being able to work at my own pace,’ he says.
Jake chose subjects he was interested in and thought he was going to do best in. He found that made life a lot easier in Year 12 at Girton Grammar School in Bendigo.
This year Jake has moved to Melbourne to study for a Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree. He is majoring in geology, which involves looking at soil nutrient levels. He’s training to be in a position where he can advise farmers on the best use of their land. ‘It’s important that we make the best use of our land’, he says – and he’s talking about the global situation here.
Jake will continue to play football in Bendigo on weekends and train with a VFL team in Melbourne while he’s a university student. In other words, he’ll continue with the study pattern that worked so well for him during VCE.
Mathematics
Foundation Mathematics†
Further Mathematics§
General Mathematics†
Mathematical Methods (CAS)
Specialist Mathematics§
The Arts
Art
Dance
Drama
Media
Music:
– Music Performance
– Music Investigation§
– Music Style and
Composition
Studio Arts
Theatre Studies
Visual Communication
Design
VCE Languages
Albanian
Arabic
Armenian
Auslan
Bosnian
Chinese First Language
Chinese Second Language
Chinese Second Language
Advanced§
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
Business Studies
Accounting
Business Management
Economics
Industry and Enterprise
Legal Studies
Health and Physical
Education
Health and Human
Development
Outdoor and Environmental
Studies
Physical Education
Technology
Agricultural and Horticultural
Studies
Product Design and
Technology
Food and Technology
Information Technology†:
– IT applications§
– Software development§
Systems Engineering
Humanities
Classical Studies
Geography
History:
– Applied history in the local
community*
– Conquest and resistance*
– Twentieth century history†
– Koorie history‡
– People and power‡
– Australian history§
– Renaissance Italy§
– Revolutions§
Australian and Global Politics
Philosophy
Religion and Society
Sociology
Texts and Traditions
Science
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Physics
Psychology
English
English/English as
an Additional Language
English Language
Foundation English†
Literature
List of programs is current and accurate at time of publication.
* Unit 1 only † Units 1 and 2 only ‡ Unit 2 only § Units 3 and 4 only
Individual schools do not offer all these studies. Check which VCE studies you can choose at your school.
P6
VCE.STUDIES.IN.2013
Agriculture, Horticulture and Conservation and Land Management
• CertificateIIinAgriculture
• CertificateIIinConservationandLandManagement
• CertificateIIinHorticulture(allsectors)
Applied Fashion Design and Technology
• CertificateIIinAppliedFashionDesignandTechnology
Automotive
• CertificateIIinAutomotiveTechnologyStudies
Building and Construction
• CertificateIIinBuildingandConstruction(partialcompletion)*
Business
• CertificateIIinBusiness
Cisco
• CiscoNetworkingAcademyProgram
Community Services
• CertificateIIinCommunityServices*
Dance
• CertificateIIinDance
Integrated Technologies
• CertificateIIinIntegratedTechnologies
Engineering
• CertificateIIinEngineeringStudies*
Equine Industry
• CertificateIIinEquineIndustry
Furnishing
• CertificateIIinFurnitureMaking
Health
• CertificateIIinHealthSupportServices
• CertificateIIIinAlliedHealthAssistance
• CertificateIIIinHealthServicesAssistance
Hospitality
• CertificateIIinHospitality
• CertificateIIinHospitality(KitchenOperations)
Information Technology
• CertificateIIinInformationTechnology
• CertificateIIIinInformationTechnology(partialcompletion)
Interactive Digital Media
• CertificateIIinCreativeIndustries(Media)
• CertificateIIIinMedia
Laboratory Skills
• CertificateIIIinLaboratorySkills
Music
• CertificateIIinMusic
• CertificateIIIinMusic
• CertificateIIIinTechnicalProduction
Small Business
• CertificateIIinSmallBusiness(Operations/Innovation)
Sport and Recreation
• CertificateIIinOutdoorRecreation
• CertificateIIinSportandRecreation
• CertificateIIIinSportandRecreation
P7
VCE.VET.PROGRAMS.
IN.2013
Individual schools do not offer all these programs. You may be able to complete a VET program at an RTO outside school.
List of programs is current and accurate at time of publication.
* Pre-apprenticeship qualifications
Acronyms (GAT, ATAR, VTAC etc.) used in
Where to Now are explained in the Glossary on page 24.
School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships are available in a wide variety of industry areas including:
There are many other industry areas available for School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships. You will need to check with your VET coordinator or VCE coordinator for more information.
School-based Apprenticeship and Traineeship Programs in 2013
VCE.LIZAstudy type na
me
YEAR 11
BIOLOGY.
CHEMISTRY (Unit 1 only).
ENGLISH.FOOD AND TECHNOLOGY.
(Unit 2 only)
HEALTH AND HUMAN. DEVELOPMENT
GENERAL MATHEMATICS.STUDIO ARTS.
. ENGLISH . BIOLOGY.FOOD AND TECHNOLOGY. FURTHER MATHEMATICS . STUDIO ARTS .Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4
P8
YEAR 12
LIZA’S JO
URN
EY
When Liza received her VCE results she thought they were not going to be good enough for a teaching course, so before the university offers were finalised, she looked at other available options. ‘I found that there are other ways to get into a university course. My back-up plan was to enrol into TAFE and then transfer the following year into the degree course.’
Although Liza was offered a place in a Bachelor of Education (P-12) degree at Victoria University, her advice to others is: ‘Don’t be too disappointed if you don’t get the results you hoped for because there will always be other pathways you can take to get into the course you really want.’
Having completed her VCE at Bayswater Secondary College, Liza’s advice to VCE students is to spend an hour every night looking over notes from the day’s classes. This is a good way to study and revise and better than cramming it all in just before the exam.
Another tip is: ‘Try not to sit next to talkative friends who can distract you.’ She also says, ‘Find ways to study that suit you. I’m a very visual person, so I used different colour pens and sticky notes to highlight important information.’
Liza’s degree will allow her to teach at any grade level. She is still deciding between primary or secondary teaching but intends to specialise in English, Drama and Art.
‘I’m excited about my course; I just want to get good grades and start teaching. I would like to work at my old primary school or high school after I finish.’
•Agriculture
•Automotive
•Business
•CommunityServices
•Engineering
•Horticulture
•Hospitality
•InformationTechnology
•Retail
•SportandRecreation
.2011year of study
P9
VCE.EDWARDstudy type na
me
YEAR 10
YEAR 11YEAR 12
. BIOLOGY . CHEMISTRY. ENGLISH . MATHEMATICAL METHODS (CAS). PHYSICS. RELIGION AND SOCIETY (Unit 2 only). PSYCHOLOGY
RELIGION AND SOCIETY. (Unit 1 only)
BIOLOGY .CHEMISTRY .
ENGLISH.LITERATURE.
FURTHER MATHEMATICS.COMMUNITY RECREATION.
(VCE VET)
INDUSTRY AND ENTERPRISE.GENERAL MATHEMATICS.
.Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4
EDW
ARD
’S JOU
RNEY
Edward decided to take a gap year after finishing VCE at Marian College in Ararat. ‘It seemed like a good time to take a break after two pretty full-on years in high school and I wanted to do something that is not necessarily related to career and school work.’
He plans to teach in South America during the gap year and then come back to study pharmacy at RMIT University. Both these ideas came to him while doing work experience in Year 10, when he spent one week in a school and the other in a pharmacy.
Edward has always been interested in chemistry and the variety of post-degree opportunities, such as working in a pharmacy or hospital and possibly doing research, appeals to him.
Because of his ambition, it is not surprising that he chose Chemistry, Biology and Psychology for his VCE studies, but he says of his choice: ‘I went with what I enjoyed because I figured that if I did subjects I liked they would probably lead to a career.’
Edward also chose VCE Further Mathematics as well as Literature because he’s always had an interest in reading books.
His strategies for getting through the VCE years included making sure he did all the set homework and working on subjects at night even though specific tasks had not been set. ‘I wrote in my school diary what I needed to do and made sure I prepared for classes the next day.’
It wasn’t all work and no play though: ‘I worked at a local shop on weekends, which gave me a little time to get away from VCE homework. And I still caught up with friends nearly every weekend.’
At the Units 3 and 4 level the VCAA supervises the assessment of all students – both at the school and in the examinations.
A similar process of assessment applies to scored VCE VET programs, that is, they have a school assessment and an examination. Your school will be able to tell you which VCE VET programs are scored.
Types of assessment in Units 3 and 4
In the VCE there are two kinds of assessment in Units 3 and 4.
The first kind is assessment done at school. Your teachers will set assessment tasks that are done mainly in class time. These are often referred to as SACs or SATs (officially called School-assessed Coursework or School-assessed Tasks).
The second kind is the examination/s in each VCE study. These can be written, oral, performance or electronic. Most are held in November, but performance and language studies also have examinations in October.
For all forms of assessment, both school assessment and examinations, the VCAA has careful procedures to ensure that all schools throughout the state are marking to the same standard. They involve statistical procedures and multiple checks on each aspect of your assessment. The GAT is part of this process.
About the GATThe GAT is a test of general knowledge and skills in written communication, mathematics, science and technology, humanities, the arts and social sciences.
The GAT is an important part of VCE assessment. Although it doesn’t count towards your VCE results or your ATAR, the GAT plays an important role in checking that your school assessments and external examinations have been accurately assessed.
Therefore, if you are enrolled in Units 3 and 4 of any VCE study or any VCE VET scored program – whether in Year 11 or Year 12 – you must sit the GAT.
Your GAT results will be reported with your Statement of Results.
.2011year of study
P10
How are results reported?Statement of Results
If you are taking Units 1 and 2 only, you will receive a Statement of Results through your school. If you are taking Units 3 and 4, the Statement of Results will be mailed to you by the VCAA in December.
The Statement of Results will indicate whether or not you gained an ‘S’ or ‘N’ for every unit you enrol in – Units 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Your assessments in Units 3 and 4 for School-assessed Coursework, School-assessed Tasks and examinations will be reported as a grade from A+ to E or UG (ungraded).
If you achieve two or more graded assessments and receive ‘S’ for both Units 3 and 4 in a study in the same year you will receive a study score. The study score is calculated on a scale from 0 to 50 and is a measure of how well you performed in relation to all others who took the study.
The study scores calculated by the VCAA will be used by VTAC to calculate your ATAR.
If you have completed VCE VET units, these will be shown on your Statement of Results. If you have completed a full VCE VET program, you will receive a separate certificate from the RTO in addition to your VCE. If you have undertaken assessment for a study score in a VCE VET program your score will be included on the Statement of Results along with VCE studies.
VCE certificate
You will receive a certificate if you have satisfied the requirements for completing the VCE.
VCE.RUBYstudy type na
me
YEAR 11
BIOLOGY (Unit 1 only).
CHEMISTRY (Unit 1 only).
LITERATURE.ITALIAN.
GENERAL MATHEMATICS.MATHEMATICAL METHODS .
(CAS)
. INTERNATIONAL STUDIES . LITERATURE.ITALIAN. FURTHER MATHEMATICS
YEAR 12
.2011year of study
Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4.
RUBY
’S JOU
RNEY
Ruby enjoyed studying science in Year 10, so she chose Chemistry and Biology in Year 11, thinking that she might take a science degree at university. However, she changed her mind later on and in Year 12 chose Literature, International Politics and Italian as part of her studies.
When it was time to choose her subjects she welcomed the advice of her teachers at Northcote High School and was also grateful for the extra help from her Literature teacher. This included classes on Sundays and valuable assistance with essay writing and general writing skills.
At school Ruby ensured she kept on top of her workload, studying a little each day and revising throughout the year. She varied her study environments between the library and study groups with her friends. This was especially useful for subjects like International Studies and Literature where discussion is important.
This is Ruby’s advice to future VCE students: ‘Pick subjects that interest you. Year 12 is not everything; you have your whole life ahead of you so try not to choose subjects in order to please or impress other people.’ Her opinion is that students need to be honest about how much work they’re doing; if they haven’t done enough work, they’re only fooling themselves.
Ruby is now in the first year of a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Melbourne. She enjoys the more abstract way of learning that the course offers and hopes to major in politics and French with a concurrent diploma in Italian.
P11
Other things I might like to knowHigher Education Studies in the VCE
If you are a high achiever looking for an extra challenge, a Higher Education study may interest you. A Higher Education study can count towards satisfactory completion of your VCE and is equivalent to at least 20 per cent of a full-time first-year university course. You may enrol in only one Higher Education study as part of your VCE. If you enrol in a Higher Education study it will be one of the following:
• An Extension study contains curriculum that is linked to, and is an extension of, an existing VCE study. For example, a student may study VCE Biology at school and also take an Extension study in a branch of Biology at university. Often the VCE study is a prerequisite for the university study and will need to have been completed with a study score of at least 41.
• An Advanced Standing study contains curriculum that is not available in any current VCE subject and it may not require a prerequisite. For example, a student may start a nursing degree at university while studying VCE Units 3 and 4.
Satisfactory completion of a Higher Education study can contribute to your ATAR as a fifth or sixth VCE study. You will usually be able to take up your study at second-year level at university if you are selected for the course to which the study belongs.
A summary of the Higher Education studies offered by participating universities in 2013 can be found at http://eduhs01.education.vic.gov.au:5001/vce/studies/studiesextension.html
VCE.CLAIREstudy type na
me
.2011year of study
YEAR 10
YEAR 11YEAR 12. ENGLISH. FINANCIAL SERVICES
(VCE VET) . FURTHER MATHEMATICS . MATHEMATICAL METHODS (CAS).Higher Education Study – ACCOUNTING at Monash University
ENGLISH .
FINANCIAL SERVICES . (VCE VET)
MATHEMATICAL METHODS . (CAS)
ACCOUNTING. BUSINESS MANAGEMENT.ACCOUNTING (Unit 2 only).BUSINESS MANAGEMENT.GENERAL MATHEMATICS.
.Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4
Claire was quite single-minded in her choice of VCE subjects when she was at Toorak College. She knew she had a flair for business and chose her studies accordingly. She even went to another school – Keysborough College – for her VCE VET Financial Services program.
Claire developed her interest in accounting while working at a local newsagency. ‘I
love numbers,’ she says. ‘Mum was a maths teacher and it’s something I’ve grown up with and been interested in.’
Having completed VCE Accounting in Year 11 she was able to apply for a Higher Education study at Monash University during her Year 12. Apart from providing a challenge, she says, ‘It gave me a good idea of what university would be like.’ It meant going to the university campus one day a week after school for a lecture and tutorial.
This year she is studying for a Bachelor of Accounting degree at Monash University and has credit towards two subjects from her Higher Education study.
Claire’s advice to future VCE students is: ‘Never leave anything till the last minute. Prepare in advance for SACs. With exam preparation, find the study technique that works for you.’ For her this was summarising notes and practising exams. She used cue cards to memorise definitions and quotes. She looked at these before an exam or test and also in her spare time.
Claire has one more tip with regard to social life: ‘Get the right balance between spending time with friends, fitting in part-time work and doing homework. Otherwise stress can get in the way.’
When she finishes her degree Claire might be interested in forensic accounting but she is waiting to see what inspires her during her years at university.
CLA
IRE’S JOU
RNEY
P12
How can I get into university or TAFE?
VTAC calculates your ATAR using the VCAA study scores for Units 3 and 4. Other studies used in the calculation of your ATAR can include VCE VET programs and a Higher Education study.
The ATAR is an overall measure of a student’s achievement in relation to that of other students. It allows tertiary institutions to compare students who have completed different combinations of VCE studies and is reported to you as a rank between 0.00 and 99.95 with increments of 0.05.
Further details about this process and tertiary selection are given in the following VTAC publications:
• ATAR into Tertiary Study (VTAC website only)
• ABC of Scaling (a copy is mailed with the ATAR statement in December on completion of the VCE)
• Choice! (Year 10 booklet available through schools)
• VTAC Guide 2013 (available at newsagents $12.00 rrp and on the VTAC website)
• Victorian Tertiary Entrance Requirements (VICTER) (in newspapers late July and PDF file available on the VTAC website)
• VTAC website: www.vtac.edu.au
Awards and prizes in the VCE
Information about the following awards and prizes can be found on the VCAA website at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/excellenceawards/
• Season of Excellence Outstanding work produced by students in the technology, visual and performing arts studies is celebrated in Top Acts, Top Arts, Top Class, Top Designs and Top Screen.
• VCE Leadership Awards Students’ leadership and contribution to their school and community is acknowledged.
• Plain English Speaking Award Students can enter a state-wide public speaking competition when they are in Years 10, 11 and 12.
• Margaret Schofield Memorial Scholarship VCE Music Performance students can apply for this annual music scholarship if they attend a government school.
• Other prizes include: Premier’s VCE Awards Australian Student Prize Australian Vocational Student Prize.
VCE.DANIELstudy type na
me
YEAR 11
YEAR 12BIOLOGY .
ENGLISH.
INTERNATIONAL POLITICS . LEGAL STUDIES .
GENERAL MATHEMATICS.
PSYCHOLOGY .
RELIGION AND SOCIETY. (Unit 1 only)
TEXTS AND TRADITIONS.(Unit 2 only)
. ENGLISH . INTERNATIONAL STUDIES. LEGAL STUDIES. FURTHER MATHEMATICS . PSYCHOLOGY .Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4
.2011year of study
DA
NIEL’S JO
URN
EY
This year Daniel embarked on a Bachelor of Applied Science (Psychology) degree at Deakin University. ‘I was drawn to this course because Psychology was my favourite subject last year. I’d especially enjoyed learning about the different functions of the brain.’
When Daniel started his VCE at St Bede’s College he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do so he kept his options open by choosing a variety of subjects from different fields of study. ‘When I was choosing my subjects, I didn’t feel locked in and knew I had the freedom to transfer into another subject if I didn’t like what I was doing after the first few weeks.’
Daniel is a keen basketball player and trains three times a week on top of his weekly competition games. To ensure that he didn’t fall behind on his homework, he kept to a strict timetable and study plan that helped him maintain his commitment to both basketball and his studies. He believes that getting the balance right is crucial to succeeding in VCE; this includes knowing when to take rest breaks so as not to overload yourself.
The psychology degree, with honours, will take Daniel four years to complete. After that he would like to get into clinical psychology or work as an industrial organisational psychologist. In this role the psychologist works with companies to create efficient work programs for their employees.
Daniel would also like to work overseas after completing studies, particularly in South Sudan where his family comes from. He hopes to use his skills to help people in the local communities there.
P13
VCE.RENEEstudy type na
me
.2011year of study
YEAR 12. ART . ENGLISH . FURTHER MATHEMATICS . STUDIO ARTS . VISUAL COMMUNICATION AND DESIGN
YEAR 11
ART.
BIOLOGY.
CHEMISTRY. ENGLISH . MATHEMATICAL METHODS. (CAS)
HEALTH AND HUMAN.DEVELOPMENT
Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4.
RENEE’S JO
URN
EY
In Year 11 Renee had a strong interest in both health and design but at that stage she was not really sure in which direction her studies would take her. Health and Human Development was actually the first subject that Renee chose. Later, when talking with her VCE coordinator and her Studio Arts teacher, she was able to get advice on the combination of subjects that would allow her to get into a course that interested her.
This year Renee is studying for a Diploma in Interior Design and Decoration at Swinburne University of Technology.
She started Year 11 at Portland Secondary College with the intention of using a diary to manage her time effectively. However, as the year progressed the diary got used less and less and it was the same story in Year 12. She now regrets this and wishes she had used her diary more effectively in order to manage her studies.
Renee’s tip for Year 10 students is: ‘Take in what people are saying about the challenges you will face, listen to the advice from teachers and older students and try to make the best use of your time by using a diary throughout the year.’
Renee felt it was important to keep up her sports and hobbies during VCE. It helped to take a break from study and was a way to unwind or ‘recharge the brain’. This could mean playing a game of tennis, going for a long walk or reading a book.
Renee wants to use her diploma as a pathway to a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) course in interior design or architecture and after that she would like to live in London for a few years working in the design industry.
P14
PLA
NN
ING
.YO
UR.
VC
E.PR
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Use
this
char
t to
plan
the
VCE
prog
ram
you
would
like
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o, k
eepin
g in
mind
:
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ethe
r you
inte
nd to
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t you
r VCE
in Y
ear 1
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Yea
r 11;
in o
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wor
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heth
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ake
two
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ookle
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talk
to o
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st for
you
•th
at yo
u ha
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inclu
de a
n ap
prov
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ombin
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Uni
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P15
PLA
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/Fur
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Lev
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Wha
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tere
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CAL
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P16
About the VCALWhat is the VCAL?
The VCAL is an alternative to the VCE and is a hands-on option for Years 11 and 12 students. The VCAL gives you:
•practical work-related experience
•employability skills
•literacy and numeracy skills
•personal skills that are important for life and work.
Students who do the VCAL are likely to be interested in going on to training at TAFE institutes, doing an apprenticeship, or getting a job after completing school. Once you have completed your VCAL, you will have knowledge and skills that are a useful preparation for a trade or industry certificate.
The VCAL has three levels – Foundation, Intermediate and Senior. You would start and complete your VCAL at the level that matches your needs and abilities. Intermediate and Senior VCAL units may also contribute to a VCE program.
The VCAL’s flexibility offers you a study program that suits your interests and learning needs. You choose accredited modules and units for each of the following compulsory strands:
•Literacy and Numeracy Skills
•Industry Specific Skills
•Work Related Skills
•Personal Development Skills.
What if I haven’t decided exactly what I want to do?
If you are undecided about what you want to do then VCAL is a good option in Year 11. You can choose to complete a VCAL at Year 11 and then transfer to the VCE. Alternatively you can complete a VCAL certificate at Year 11 and then do further education or training at the next VCAL certificate level. You may also choose to continue your training, do an apprenticeship or start work.
What I need to knowWhen can I do the VCAL?
You can begin your VCAL program in Year 11 or Year 12 of secondary school.
Where can I do the VCAL?
The VCAL is offered state-wide at schools, TAFE institutes and Adult Community Education centres. For a list of all VCAL providers visit: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
VCAL.BENstudy type na
me
LITERACY AND
NUMERACY SKILLS
VCAL Reading and. Writing Unit (Senior)
VCAL Numeracy Skills. Unit (Senior)
VCAL Oral Communication. Unit (Senior)
Foundation Mathematics.
INDUSTRY SPECIFIC SKILLS
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SKILLS
WORK RELATED SKILLS
. Certificate II in Animal Studies. Certificate III in Information Technology
. VCAL Personal Development Skills Units 1 and 2 (Senior)
. VCAL Work Related Skills Units 1 and 2 – Senior. VCE Industry and Enterprise Unit 1
VCAL.VCE Units 1 and 2.
BEN’S JO
URN
EY
As a child, Ben faced many personal challenges and struggled with his schooling.
‘I’ve always wanted to work with animals,’ he says. ‘VCAL has given me the opportunity to do just this.’ As part of his VCAL program, Ben attended TAFE one day a week and completed a Certificate II in Animal
Studies. At school, he also looked after a number of animals, including lizards, fish, snakes and birds. Ben was responsible for feeding them and cleaning their enclosures. Having the opportunity to work with animals and complete his animal studies at school reinforced Ben’s ambition to pursue a career working with animals.
A highlight of Ben’s VCAL year at MacKillop College was a school trip to Borneo, a 28-day journey that proved to be the adventure and challenge of a lifetime. ‘We were responsible for all the decision-making and coordination of the trip and we learnt important life-skills,’ he says. During the year, Ben’s VCAL class was also given the responsibility of organising the school end-of-year dinner.
‘I loved the hands-on learning and we got to do real things,’ he says. ‘We even had to organise and cook a three-course meal for 200 guests this year!’ VCAL has also provided Ben with the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills. ‘Before this year I wouldn’t even pick up a phone but I’m a lot more confident now and can rely on myself a lot more.’
Ben is currently undertaking Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, a program he’s enjoying immensely. After this he hopes to get a job at the RSPCA. His dream is to eventually become a vet.
.2011year of study
P17
Are there any entry requirements?
No. You begin the VCAL at a level suitable for your capabilities. Your teacher or careers counsellor will be able to help you decide which level is suitable for you.
How long will the VCAL take me to complete?
The time it takes depends on how your VCAL program is structured. A VCAL certificate is usually completed in one year.
What do I get after successfully completing the VCAL?
You will receive a VCAL certificate for either Foundation, Intermediate or Senior level, depending on the VCAL level you chose to complete. You will also get a Statement of Results from the VCAA, listing all completed VCAL, VCE and VCE VET units, and a Statement of Attainment from the RTO for VET or Further Education training you have completed.
What do I study?Your teacher or careers counsellor can help you develop a VCAL program that suits your particular learning needs and interests. You can select units and modules from each of the following four VCAL strands.
Strand 1 – Literacy and Numeracy Skills
Your VCAL program must include literacy and numeracy subjects. These can be selected from VCAL Literacy Skills and VCAL Numeracy Skills units, VCE English and Mathematics or other further education studies such as the Certificate in General Education for Adults.
Strand 2 – Industry Specific Skills
Your VCAL Intermediate or Senior program must include units from VET certificates. However, you are not required to focus on, or complete, any single VET certificate. For example, you can choose to undertake various units from a range of VET certificates to meet the VCAL requirements, and gain experience in a range of vocational areas. The range of VET options is extensive and examples include automotive, engineering, building and construction, hospitality, retail, multimedia, information technology, agriculture, horticulture, warehousing and hair and beauty.
Strand 3 – Work Related Skills
In this strand you study units that will help prepare you for work, for example occupational health and safety or job interview skills. In order to develop employability skills, VCAL also gives you the choice to undertake a structured workplace learning placement, a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship and/or part-time work.
VCAL.RENEEstudy type na
me
.2011year of study
LITERACY AND
NUMERACY SKILLS
VCAL Reading and. Writing Unit (Intermediate)
VCAL Numeracy Skills. Unit (Intermediate)
VCAL Oral Communication. Unit (Intermediate)
VCE Auslan. VCE Texts and Traditions.
(Unit 2 only)
INDUSTRY SPECIFIC SKILLS
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SKILLS
WORK RELATED SKILLS
. Certificate II in Community Services
. VCAL Personal Development Skills Units 1 and 2 (Intermediate). VCE Information Technology
. VCAL Work Related Skills Units 1 and 2 (Intermediate)VCAL.
VCE Units 1 and 2.
GENERAL CREDITS
RENEE’S JO
URN
EYRenee had a passion for a career working with students who have disabilities, however she had not enjoyed the structured learning of Year 10 at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, Bentleigh. Of all the VCE subjects only Auslan (a unit in sign language) really appealed to her.
Renee decided to complete Auslan as part of her VCAL program because she was particularly interested in working with people who have hearing impairments. She undertook a year-long work placement with Berendale, a secondary school for students with varying disabilities, where her tasks ranged from school administration to assisting students with classroom work.
VCAL gave Renee an opportunity to follow her passion, work in a hands-on environment, build her confidence, gain valuable employment skills and the ability to practice her sign language with the hearing impaired.
She believes that the industry experience she has gained while completing her VCAL certificate is something that is invaluable. ‘I have learnt so much more, about myself and my goals in life; before, I felt like I was walking into walls’, she recalls.
‘My favourite thing about the VCAL program was my work at Berendale. It definitely helped me realise my passion’, she says. ‘VCAL is a great opportunity for someone who knows what they are passionate about. Also if you learn better with a hands-on approach it is a great way to go.’
P18
Strand 4 – Personal Development Skills
As part of your VCAL program you will take part in community-based projects and activities that promote health and wellbeing and develop self-confidence, teamwork and other skills important for life and work.
What counts towards my VCAL?I have already started a VET certificate. Will this count towards my VCAL?
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 remainder of your VCAL program.
I have already done a VCE subject. Will this count towards my VCAL?
Yes, if you have an ‘S’ result for the VCE unit it will count towards your VCAL. You should speak to your teacher or careers counsellor to plan the remainder of your VCAL program.
Can I swap to the VCE if I change my mind?
Yes. If you want to swap to the VCE, or if you want to study for the VCE after completing the VCAL, any units successfully completed as part of your Intermediate/Senior VCAL may count towards your VCE. You might also be able to transfer credit for other VET/Further Education units and modules completed as part of your VCAL. If you decide to take this option, discuss it with your teacher or careers counsellor.
VCAL.LEAHstudy type na
me
LITERACY AND
NUMERACY SKILLS
VCAL Reading and. Writing Unit (Senior)
VCAL Oral Communication. Unit (Senior)
INDUSTRY SPECIFIC SKILLS
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SKILLS
WORK RELATED SKILLS
.Certificate II in Retail .Certificate II in Horticulture
. VCAL Personal Development Skills Units 1 and 2 (Senior)
. VCAL Work Related Skills Units 1 and 2 – Senior. VCE Industry and Enterprise Unit 1
VCAL.VCE Units 1 and 2.
.2011year of study
LEAH
’S JOU
RNEY
From a young age, Leah knew she wanted a career in landscaping. She approached numerous landscaping businesses to see if they were interested in a School-based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SBAT), but was knocked back every time. Many of these prospective employers said her gender was an issue, and questioned her ability to handle the physical side of the work. Leah persevered, finally landing an SBAT with Urban Renewal, Mission Australia’s landscaping, garden and light construction business, through its social enterprise program.
After that, Leah progressed in leaps and bounds. Once a shy and reserved teenager, she found her confidence increased and her employers say she is a capable and motivated employee who learns new skills quickly, shows a genuine flair for landscaping and, of course, has no trouble performing manual labour.
‘It was the best option for me to get out and work a few days a week instead of being stuck in the classroom,’ Leah says. Her SBAT was not only an enjoyable way to get hands-on experience, it also meant she could simultaneously complete her senior VCAL at Carrum Downs Secondary College.
‘Leah is diligent, punctual and takes pride in her work,’ says Urban Renewal support worker Cheyne Oliver. ‘She is well liked by supervisors and colleagues and communicates effectively and easily with both groups. She listens to what she is told, shows initiative and can work easily in a team or on her own. All of us at Urban Renewal are extremely proud of Leah and believe she has nothing but success in her future.’
P19
Can I complete a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship as part of my VCAL program?
A School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship fits well in a student’s VCAL program as it can meet two of the four VCAL curriculum strand requirements – Industry Specific and Work Related Skills.
Further information on School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeships can be found on page 21.
Will part-time work count towards my VCAL?
Part-time working may contribute to your VCAL. Other work activities that may contribute to your VCAL include:
• a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship
• voluntary work
• structured workplace learning placements.
How is the VCAL assessed?All accredited courses/certificates in your VCAL program are assessed by your teacher and/or RTO.
Students who include VCE studies in their VCAL can refer to the VCE section of this book for further information on assessment.
What must I do to get my VCAL? To get your VCAL you must successfully complete a learning program that contains a minimum of ten credits (units). The program must include:
• a minimum of one credit for each of the VCAL curriculum strands (Literacy and Numeracy Skills, Industry Specific Skills, Work Related Skills and Personal Development Skills)
• a minimum of two VCAL units
• one credit for numeracy
• six credits at the VCAL level attempted (Foundation, Intermediate or Senior) or above this level. One of these credits must be for Literacy and one credit for Personal Development Skills.
At the VCAL Intermediate and Senior levels the program must also include VET totalling at least 90 hours.
A VCAL program may also include VCE studies and Further Education units. One credit is awarded for 90 hours of a Further Education unit.
How are results reported?Statement of Results
If you are undertaking a VCAL and have not taken any VCE Units 3 and 4 studies you will receive a Statement of Results through your school. If you have taken VCE Units 3 and 4 studies then your Statement of Results will be mailed to you by the VCAA in December.
The Statement of Results will list all VCAL units that you completed satisfactorily. It will also list all VCE units studied whether or not you completed them satisfactorily. Satisfactory completion is reported as an ‘S’. Not meeting the requirements for satisfactory completion is reported as an ‘N’.
If you have completed VCE VET units, these will be shown on your Statement of Results and if you have completed a full VCE VET program, you will receive a separate certificate from the RTO in addition to your VCAL.
VCAL Certificate
You will receive a certificate if you have satisfied the requirements for completing the VCAL.
Where can the VCAL take me?The VCAL will give you practical work-related experience and a qualification that will be recognised by TAFE institutes and employers. Together these will help you move from school to work, an apprenticeship or traineeship and/or further training at TAFE.
Students planning to go straight to university should do the VCE which allows them to gain an ATAR calculated by VTAC.
If you are studying the VCAL at Senior level and decide that you might be interested in going on to university, check with your teacher or careers counsellor because some universities will consider students with a VCAL Senior certificate for admission.
VCAL Awards
The VCAL Achievement Awards acknowledge the achievements of VCAL students, teachers and partner organisations.
Information about these can be found on the VCAA website: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/excellenceawards/
LEARNING.PATHWAYS
TRAINING (TAFE or school,
industry, RTO, ACE)
STRUCTURED WORKPLACE LEARNING
Completion of VCALCompletion of VCE
EMPLOYMENT/APPRENTICESHIP/TRAINEESHIP
TAFE CERTIFICATE II/III/IV, DIPLOMA, ADVANCED DIPLOMA
University
VCE(Victorian Certificate
of Education)Usually 20–24 units
90 different studies available
VCAL(Victorian Certificate of
Applied Learning)Literacy and Numeracy Skills, Industry Specific Skills, Work
Related Skills, Personal Development Skills
VET
VCE VET Program School-based Apprenticeship
and TraineeshipOther VET Certificates
P20
P21
What are apprenticeships and traineeships?An apprenticeship or traineeship is a combination of paid work and training, resulting in a national qualification.
The main difference between apprentices and trainees is the level of commitment that both the apprentice or trainee and the employer make.
Apprenticeships
Under 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, and you agree to follow instruction and attend off-the-job and/or workplace-based training
• if your employer sells the business during your apprenticeship, the new employer must continue with the training contract
• once the probationary period of the training contract has passed, all parties must agree in order for the contract to be cancelled.
Traineeships
Under 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, and you agree to follow instruction and attend structured training
• if the business is sold, the new employer does not have to keep you on as a trainee
• mutual agreement is not required if you or your employer wants to opt out of the contract. Either party may cancel the contract by signing a cancellation form or letter stating the date of cancellation.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship full-time or part-time once you have left school.
You can also do an apprenticeship or traineeship part-time while you are doing your VCE or VCAL. If your secondary school has endorsed your training plan, this is known as a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (see page 4).
To do an apprenticeship or traineeship you must have a job with an employer. Apprentices and trainees generally learn industry skills by combining on-the-job paid work with training at a TAFE institute or other provider. For some programs, most of the training and assessment takes place at work.
CONNOR
nam
e
.2011year of study
YEAR 12. BUSINESS MANAGEMENT . COMMUNITY RECREATION (VCE VET) . ENGLISH . HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT . CERTIFICATE III IN FINANCIAL SERVICES*
YEAR 11
COMMUNITY RECREATION. (VCE VET)
ENGLISH. HEALTH AND HUMAN.DEVELOPMENT
GENERAL MATHEMATICS.PHYSICAL EDUCATION.
*School-based Traineeship
Units 1 and 2.Units 3 and 4.
CO
NN
OR’S JO
URN
EYWhen Connor chose his VCE program at Bendigo Senior Secondary College, he took the advice of friends and picked subjects that sounded interesting. ‘I liked the idea of learning new topics and one thing that was definitely new for me was the traineeship I did in a bank.’
In Year 12 he spent one day a week at the local branch of the Bendigo Bank working as a teller. This gave him a Certificate III in Financial Services as well as contributing to his VCE. ‘I really enjoyed getting out of school for a day and doing something completely different.’
The bank paid Connor too – at the low traineeship rate; and when he left school they offered him a full-time job. ‘I had liked the idea of working in a bank but when I got there I realised there was much more to the job than just handling the money. I had a mentor – another teller – for three-quarters of the year; then I was on my own.’
Connor also chose a VCE VET program, Community Recreation, as part of his Year 12 studies. This focused on sport and he learnt about health and safety and organised sporting events. Throughout his VCE years Connor kept up his out-of-school sports activities too, playing in local football and cricket teams.
Connor’s advice to future students is: ‘Keep on top of your studies in year 12; it’s easy to get stressed especially when you’re trying to do your best.’ He also highly recommends a traineeship to anyone who is not interested in going to university as this is a great way to get into the workforce while still at school.
Connor is still enjoying his job as a teller. Lots of his friends work in trades so when he meets them after work he is in a suit and they are in their work boots. This suits Connor because, as he says, ‘I don’t like to get my hands too dirty.’
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How do I get started?I have decided to leave school and get a job, so why do I need to know this information?
When you approach an employer for a job, ask whether training is available. Ask if that training can be done as an apprenticeship or traineeship.
What is the difference between doing a VCE VET program and an apprenticeship or traineeship?
Both programs offer a nationally recognised qualification. They are simply different pathways to get your qualification.
An apprenticeship or traineeship requires you to be an employee. You are entitled to wages for this employment. For a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship you will be required to do some work and training. This will be a minimum of seven hours per week of employment and a minimum of six hours per week of structured training, which may be averaged over three periods of four months in each year of the program. At least one day per week must be timetabled to be spent on the job or in training during the normal school week.
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, but are eligible for a minimum rate per day (currently $5). Generally, the work placement will be up to 40 days.
Where do I find what apprenticeships and traineeships are available?
DEECD: www.skills.vic.gov.au/corporate/publications/brochures_and_fact_sheets/apprenticeships-and-traineeships-in-victoria-industry-guides
Visit your local Australian Apprenticeships Centre www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au
What can I do?
To find an employer who is willing to offer you an apprenticeship or traineeship:
• look at job advertisements in newspapers
• search the Internet jobs database at: www.jobsearch.gov.au
• contact your local Australian Apprenticeships Centre
– www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au
– Tel 13 38 73
• ask your school careers counsellor
• find out how an apprenticeship can lead to a successful and rewarding career by watching the videos at: www.facebook.com/pages/Real-Skills- Victoria/160848250600942
You will be required to sign a contract of training, which must be registered with DEECD.
The training is for a vocational qualification at Certificate II, III, IV or diploma level. Qualifications are recognised throughout Australia.
As an apprentice or trainee you will receive wages and other benefits to which employees are entitled.
In addition to the programs listed on page 8, there are over 800 apprenticeship and traineeship pathways. Most industries now have apprenticeships or traineeships available. Providing wage arrangements are in place, you can do an apprenticeship or traineeship while at school and receive credit towards your VCE or VCAL.
Ask your school careers counsellor how to combine an apprenticeship or traineeship with your VCE or VCAL.
What are pre-apprenticeships?
A pre-apprenticeship is a course of training done before an apprenticeship. Pre-apprenticeship courses generally take eight to 16 weeks full time and prepare a student for an apprenticeship by teaching them the basic skills of the trade. They may be undertaken while you are still at school and take approximately two years to complete as part of your VCE or VCAL studies.
A pre-apprenticeship can be undertaken at a TAFE institute or a school that is an RTO.
Students are often assisted by the training provider to find an employer when the course has finished.
A number of VCE VET programs are approved pre-apprenticeships. The industries in which approved pre-apprenticeships are currently available are: Automotive, Building and Construction, Engineering, Furnishing, Hairdressing, Community Services, Printing and Graphic Arts.
A list of approved pre-apprenticeship courses can be found at: www.skills.vic.gov.au/apprentices/pre-apprenticeships
What is the difference between a pre-apprenticeship and an apprenticeship?
Unlike apprenticeships, students undertaking a pre-apprenticeship do not have a job with an employer and do not get wages or other benefits.
A pre-apprenticeship is a course of training prior to an apprenticeship. It does not guarantee that you will be offered an apprenticeship. If you successfully finish an approved pre-apprenticeship course, this will reduce the duration of your apprenticeship by six to twelve months, depending on the industry.
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If you are finding it difficult to find an employer who will offer you an apprenticeship or traineeship, try Group Training Australia (tel 1800 819 747) which will direct you to the appropriate Group Training Organisation. Group Training Organisations employ apprentices and trainees and hire them out to employers on short- or long-term assignments.
What courses are available?Are there any TAFE courses available to me if I complete only Year 10 or Year 11?
Some courses at TAFE institutes are available to school leavers who have successfully completed Year 10 or Year 11.
Some courses do not have any specific entry requirements.
These courses are available in a wide range of industries and often have a work skills focus.
Popular industry areas for School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships include:
• Automotive
• Hairdressing
• Business
• Hospitality
• Retail
• Sport and Recreation
• Community/Children’s Services
• General Construction.
The TAFE Courses Directory is available on the Internet at: www.tafe.vic.gov.au
Or call the TAFE Courseline on 131 823
For more information about apprenticeships and traineeships go to: www.skills.vic.gov.au
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GLOSSARYThere are a few special terms used in this book. This is what they mean.
Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) The overall ranking on a scale of 0.00 –99.95 that you receive, based on your study scores (see below). The ATAR is used by universities and TAFE institutes to select students for their courses. It used to be called an ENTER.
Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD) The government department that administers apprenticeships and traineeships.
General Achievement Test (GAT) The test that is done by all students doing a VCE Units 3 and 4 sequence or scored VCE VET Units 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.
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 One half of the academic year. Most units last for one semester.
Sequence The order in which you do your VCE units, for example a Units 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 achieved in the VCE and/or VCAL, and whether or not you have graduated.
Studies The subjects available in the VCE.
Study score A score with a maximum of 50, which 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, Numeracy, Personal Development and Work Related Skills that contribute as credits towards the VCAL.
Units (VCE) The parts of a study in the VCE. There are usually four units in a study, numbered 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) The State 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 certificates.
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.
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