What is VET?
Vocational Education and Training (VET) is an accredited program that allows secondary students to develop practical, industry-specific skills over two years. These courses are designed to meet industry demands, equipping students with essential workplace competencies.
Through VET, students earn nationally recognised qualifications in specialised industries. A completed VET certificate contributes towards the completion of their senior secondary certificate, including the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or the VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM).
Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are responsible for the delivery, assessment and certification of VET qualifications. An RTO may be a student’s school, TAFE, private organisation or an ACE provider.
VET at St Helena Secondary College
Students at St Helena Secondary College can integrate a VET subject into their studies during Years 10, 11, or 12. As most certificates take two years to complete, students are encouraged to begin their VET course in Year 10 or 11.
Where Do Students Study VET?
St Helena Secondary College is part of the Northern Melbourne VET Cluster (NMVC), a consortium of schools in the region that collaborates to provide a broad range of VET programs.
With guidance from the school’s VET Coordinator, students choose a provider and course that aligns with their interests and fits their timetable. Most students attend their VET course on Wednesday or Thursday afternoons, traveling to the designated training location.
VET Subjects
Available On-site at St Helena
- VET Automotive
- VET Building and Construction
- VET Dance
- VET Early Childhood Education
- VET Furniture
- VET Hospitality
- VET Information Technology
- VET Sport and Recreation
Available through the NMVC
- Agriculture
- Fashion Design and Textiles
- Building and Construction
- Business
- Community Services
- Allied Health
- Make-up and Beauty
- Horticulture
- Hospitality
- Media
- Animal Studies
- Visual Arts
- Sport and Recreation
- Digital Media and Technology
- Equine Studies
- Furniture Making
- Music Industry
- Engineering
- Dance
Structured Workplace Learning (SWL)
SWL provides students with hands-on, on-the-job training, helping them develop practical skills and gain insights into employer expectations.
Many VET programs require SWL as part of their qualification, with students undertaking work placements during school holidays or occasionally during the term. For students pursuing the VCE VM, there is also the option of a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT). Those interested in SBAT opportunities are encouraged to speak with the school’s Careers Practitioner.