The VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) is one of two senior secondary qualifications available to students in Victoria, alongside the traditional VCE. While students can choose to complete VET (Vocational Education and Training) courses through the VCE, completing a VET certificate is a required component of the VCE VM pathway.
What is VCE VM?
VCE VM is an accredited senior secondary qualification designed for students in Years 11 and 12 who want a more applied, practical approach to their learning. The program focuses on real-world learning, ‘life skills’, and the development of specialised skills aligned with students’ career interests. It prepares students for employment, further education or training, and active participation in the community.
Each student’s VCE VM program is tailored to their vocational interests, providing flexibility for them to explore specific industries and plan pathways toward future work or study.
Structure of VCE VM
Students must complete at least 16 units over two years, with the following core components:
- Literacy: 3 VCE VM Literacy units, including a Unit 3–4 sequence
- Numeracy: 2 VCE VM Numeracy units
- Work Related Skills: 2 units
- Personal Development Skills: 2 units
- VET Component: 2 VET credits at Certificate II level or higher (at least 180 hours)
The program encourages flexibility, allowing students to pursue subjects that align with their personal goals and career pathways.
A Practical & Hands-on Approach
VCE VM emphasises learning through practical experience. Students engage in real-world activities such as workplace learning, community projects, and hands-on industry training. In addition to developing literacy and numeracy skills, they also build essential personal skills for life and work.
The VCE VM curriculum is similar to VCE in that it focuses on key knowledge and skills. However, students are assessed through competency-based tasks, which are evaluated via projects and practical applications, rather than traditional exams. Students will also sit for Part A of the General Achievement Test (GAT).
Designed to be completed over two years, VCE VM gives students the opportunity to pursue meaningful learning that aligns with their future goals, preparing them for success beyond secondary school.
To find out more about the VET programs on offer, please visit the VET page. (link)