WHERE TO NOW? VICTORIAN CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT AUTHORITY Guide to the VCE, VCAL and Apprenticeships and Traineeships

Transcription

1 WHERE TO NOW? 2016 Guide to the VCE, VCAL and Apprenticeships and Traineeships VICTORIAN CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT AUTHORITY

2 WELCOME Well done on reaching your final years of secondary school. You have many exciting options to consider when deciding how to complete your senior secondary schooling. This booklet will help you to make decisions about your future, whether you plan to enrol in university, complete an apprenticeship or traineeship, or get a job in the workforce. Most importantly, this booklet will help you to choose a path that allows you to explore your interests. You can choose from two senior secondary qualifications the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL). As part of the VCE or VCAL, you can also achieve a Vocational Education and Training (VET) certificate or a school-based apprenticeship/ traineeship. VCE students who complete a higher level mathematics subject and a language as part of their VCE program may also be eligible to receive the VCE (Baccalaureate). I encourage you to read the stories in this booklet from students who have completed the VCE, VCAL, VET and school-based apprenticeships/traineeships. They have experienced the challenges and triumphs of the senior secondary years and they have great advice that can help you to decide what you want to study. All Victorian education certificates are valuable and will recognise your learning and the skills you have gained. I wish you the very best for your senior secondary schooling and the years that follow. The Hon. James Merlino MP Deputy Premier and Minister for Education

3 WHAT S INSIDE? Where to now? has information about the senior secondary qualifications available in Victoria and where these can lead to after you ve finished school. The two main qualifications are the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL). This booklet also has information about Vocational Education and Training (VET), which can form part of your VCE or VCAL, and school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. Before you decide what you want to study, make sure you talk to your VCE coordinator or your careers teachers. They will help you make the right choices for you. If you want to do the VCE or VCAL and you have special needs associated with an illness, a disability or personal circumstances, there are many support options. This is called Special Provision. Your school is best placed to tell you what s available to help you complete your VCE or VCAL studies. If you know what career you want to have, talk to people already working in the industry ask them how they got to where they are now VCE VCAL VET Victorian Certificate of Education Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning Vocational Education and Training APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS

4 TAFE CERTIFICATE II/III/IV DIPLOMA ADVANCED DIPLOMA 4 VET VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING LEARNING PATHWAYS VCAL VICTORIAN CERTIFICATE OF APPLIED LEARNING VCE VICTORIAN CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS EMPLOYMENT APPRENTICESHIP TRAINEESHIP WORKPLACE LEARNING UNIVERSITY

5 VCE What is the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)? Most students in Victoria receive their VCE when they complete their secondary schooling. Completing the VCE provides many opportunities; it is a globally recognised qualification. Did you know that many students outside Australia study for the VCE? Students in China, South Africa and the Middle East are choosing to study their VCE and will be sitting their exams in centres all around the world. The VCE is divided into units and studies. Students usually study from 20 to 24 units (five or six studies) in Years 11 and 12, and some students start VCE in Year 10. What is a VCE study? A study is the overall subject, for example English or Biology. A study is made up of four units (each unit is a semester length). For most students the VCE is completed over two years. In Year 11, you can study Units 1 and 2, and in Year 12 you can study Units 3 and 4. You can do EITHER Unit 1 OR 2 in any study. You need to do BOTH Units 3 and 4 of one study in the same year. You can take longer than two years to finish VCE if you need to. You can also start VCE in Year 10, or do Units 3 and 4 in Year 11. You should talk to your teacher about how to structure your VCE program to meet your needs. What studies can I choose? There are over 90 VCE studies and over 20 VCE VET programs. Each school decides which VCE studies and VET programs it will offer. If your school doesn t have the studies you want to do, they might be available outside school. Check with Distance Education Victoria or the Victorian School of Languages or speak to your VCE coordinator. There is a full list of studies on the following page. How should I choose which VCE studies to do? The best idea is to choose studies that: interest you you are good at lead to a job that interests you will help you get into a university or TAFE course that you want to do. Speak to your careers counsellor before you make your choices. 5

6 6 VCE STUDIES IN 2016 Individual schools do not offer all these studies. Check which VCE studies your school offers. THE ARTS Art Dance Drama Media Music: Music Performance Music Investigation* Music Style and Composition Studio Arts Theatre Studies Visual Communication Design BUSINESS STUDIES Accounting Business Management Economics Industry and Enterprise Legal Studies CROSS-CURRICULAR Extended Investigation* ENGLISH English/English as an Additional Language English Language Foundation English Literature Bridging English as an Additional Language HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION Health and Human Development Outdoor and Environmental Studies Physical Education HUMANITIES Classical Studies Geography History: Ancient History Australian History* Global Empires Revolutions* Twentieth Century History Australian and Global Politics Philosophy Religion and Society Sociology Texts and Traditions MATHEMATICS Foundation Mathematics Further Mathematics* General Mathematics Mathematical Methods Specialist Mathematics KEY SCIENCE Biology Chemistry Environmental Science Physics Psychology TECHNOLOGY Agricultural and Horticultural Studies Algorithmics (HESS)* Computing Informatics* Software Development* Product Design and Technology Food and Technology Systems Engineering Units 1 and 2 only Units 3 and 4 only * LANGUAGES Arabic, Armenian, Auslan, Bosnian, Chinese First Language, Chinese Second Language, Chinese Second Language Advanced, Chin Hakha, 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

7 What do I have to do to get my VCE? To get your VCE you must pass 16 units. Three units must be from the English group, and one of these must be at Unit 3 and 4 level. The English group consists of Foundation English (Units 1 and 2), English (Units 1 4), Bridging English as an Additional Language (Units 1 2), English as an Additional Language (Units 3 4), English Language (Units 1 4) and Literature (Units 1 4). Your teacher will tell you which English group subjects you should do, or you can find out more about them on the VCAA website. The remaining units come from your choice of VCE studies. Three of these studies must be at Unit 3 and 4 level. All VCE students studying at least one Unit 3 and 4 study take the General Achievement Test (GAT). The GAT is used to work out students general knowledge and skills in written communication, mathematics, science, technology, humanities, the arts and social sciences. You must do the GAT. It doesn t count towards your VCE results, but it is used to make sure your marks are accurate. The GAT is usually held in June. How do I get marks in the VCE? Units 1 and 2 are marked by your school; your teachers will set a range of assessments to see how you are progressing. The assessments have deadlines and you will need to plan your work and finish your work on time. Deadlines can only be extended in special circumstances. For Units 1 and 2 you will receive either S (for Satisfactory), or N (for Not Satisfactory). Your school might give you an additional grade, but only the S or N count towards your VCE. For Units 3 and 4 you will get grades from A+ to E or UG (Ungraded) for your assessment tasks, as well as an S or N. There are three graded assessments for VCE studies at Unit 3 and 4 level. Depending on the study, these may be School-based Assessment and/or external assessments. School-based Assessments are set by your teacher. Schoolassessed Coursework (SAC) is completed at school, and Schoolassessed Tasks (SAT) are completed at school and home. These are marked at your school, but the VCAA checks the marks to make sure that all schools in Victoria are marking to the same standard. There are many rules about how the VCE is marked; you can ask your teachers about them or read about them on the VCAA website. External assessments are the same for all students taking that same VCE study. Usually this will be an exam it can be written, oral, performance or electronic. 7

8 8 YEAR 10 General Mathematics Units 1 and 2 YEAR 11 English Units 1 and 2, History: Twentieth Century History Unit 1, History: People and Power Unit 2, Media Units 1 and 2, Music Performance Units 1 and 2, Studio Arts Units 1 and 2, Psychology Units 1 and 2 YEAR 12 English Units 3 and 4, History: Revolutions Units 3 and 4, Psychology Units 3 and 4, Media Units 3 and 4, Studio Arts Units 3 and 4 JAMES I wanted to choose VCE subjects that I enjoyed and found fulfilling. I figured that if I really liked a subject I would be able to achieve my best results, but it would also put me in the best position to pursue my interests in the future. During Year 10, I thought about which subjects I had enjoyed during my education so far and which subject areas I hadn t been as drawn to. This gave me a good starting point for choosing a VCE program that would suit me best. I sought advice from older VCE students who were studying the subjects that I was interested in. I figured it was a good idea to get a student s perspective on what a subject is like. I also asked for advice from the careers counsellor at my school. When it came time to start my VCE I didn t have a particular strategy. I decided the best thing to do was to be consistent, stay calm and try my best. I put a lot of time and effort into staying organised. Being organised really helps to reduce stress. If you know exactly what you have to do and when, then all you have to do is start! Keeping notes, as I progressed throughout my studies was useful for revision, especially before my final exams. When it gets to the end of the year you want to focus your efforts on reviewing information rather than trying to find it. Having something to take my mind off study was equally important. Whether it was sport, music or just relaxing, being able to get away and recharge every now and again was crucial. The most important thing that I constantly reminded myself of was that VCE isn t everything. This allowed me to strive for the best possible results, but be happy with the best I could have achieved. The application process for the course I am doing this year included an interview. The VCE subjects I chose really helped me to develop my skills and build a folio that I was confident about taking to the interview.

9 The exams are in October and November; you will receive plenty of notice about the exact dates of your exams. Your external assessments are marked by experts in that area of study. All VCE studies are marked to the same standard and there are multiple checks to make sure that marking is fair. How will I get my results? All students who do VCE studies receive a Statement of Results. If you are only taking Units 1 and 2, it will be sent to your school. If you are doing at least one Unit 3 and 4 study, the VCAA will mail it to you in December. If you have done a Unit 3 and 4 level study, the Statement of Results includes the overall grade for your school-based and external assessments, and the mark you got for the GAT. You will also get a certificate if you have successfully completed the VCE. How do I get into university or TAFE? To get into university you may need certain study scores and an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). To get into some TAFE courses, you also need to have a study score. What is a study score? If you achieve at least two graded assessments and got an S for both Units 3 and 4 in a study in the same year, you will receive a study score. A study score is a number between 0 and 50 that indicates your ranking in terms of all students doing that study in that year. The marks for all students in a VCE study are used to work out study scores. Study scores are used by the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) to calculate your ATAR. What is an ATAR? An ATAR is used to work out what university courses you might be able to get into. It is a ranking between 0.00 and used by tertiary institutions to look at students who have completed certain combinations of VCE studies and offer them places. If you want to get an ATAR, you need to have at least four study scores one of which must be from the English group. You can find out more information about the ATAR and course choices through VTAC. Other resources VTAC website VTAC publications online ATAR calculator resource Department of Education and Training website 9

10 10 YEAR 10 Psychology Units 1 and 2 YEAR 11 Chemistry Units 1 and 2, English Units 1 and 2, Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2, Physical Education Units 1 and 2, Physics Units 1 and 2, Biology Units 3 and 4 YEAR 12 Chemistry Units 3 and 4, English Units 3 and 4, Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4, Physical Education Units 3 and 4, Psychology Units 3 and 4 WHITNEY I chose my subjects because three of them were prerequisites for the university course I wanted to study. My career aspiration is to become a medical practitioner and alternate between working in developing countries and working in rural Victoria. Near the end of Year 10, I began to look into what career options interested me, as well as what prerequisites were required to get into university. I had to make sure that the workload wasn t too heavy for me, and broadened my options for later university courses, just in case I decided to change my mind down the track. At times it was difficult to know which subjects I was best suited to. I was faced with a tough choice at the end of Year 11 when I had to choose between Psychology and Physics at Unit 3 and 4 level. My senior school coordinator gave me some simple advice, by asking me which subject I enjoyed doing more and which one I felt I was better at. I made the decision to pursue Psychology, and I ve never looked back. Understanding what worked for me was important. During VCE I found that my best study times were in the morning, when I first got up, and in the afternoon. Based on this, I created a study timetable. Though getting up early wasn t exactly fun, it meant I could go to sleep a little earlier and be well rested for the next day. I was most productive when my mind was refreshed. Organisation was important for managing my workload. Being up-to-date with my study made it easier and less stressful, especially when it came time for SACs and revision. But regardless of my best attempts to stay organised, there were times when I had three or more SACs on the same day. I would work out my priorities and focus on what I was struggling with. I also set myself escape activities from my studies to balance everything out and get the most from my VCE experience. This included exercise, watching movies and seeing friends. It s better to do a few hours of study, have a break and then go back to the books, rather than study for hours on end without rest you ll feel like a zombie and won t be able to properly consolidate information in your mind.

11 Something extra If you ve done well in your studies and want an extra challenge, you might be able to do a Higher Education study. Higher Education studies provide you with a defined pathway into a tertiary program. It can count towards your VCE and the first year of a university course. There are two types of Higher Education study: An Extension Study has a curriculum that is an extended version of a VCE study. For example, you do VCE Biology at school and do an Extension Study in an area of Biology at a university. An Advanced Standing Study has a curriculum that is not in a current VCE study. For example, you could do a first year nursing subject at a university while doing VCE studies at Units 3 and 4. You can only do one Higher Education study and your school has to recommend you for the program. Higher Education studies are offered by the VCAA in conjunction with most major universities in Victoria. The VCAA website has a list of universities that offer Higher Education studies; you can find them on the VCE studies page. You might be able to get further recognition for extra levels of achievement with a VCE (Baccalaureate). You must complete VCE with a Languages study and a higher-level Mathematics study, and have study scores for at least five VCE studies. These must include: a score of 30 or above for English, Literature or English Language, or a study score of 33 for English as an Additional Language a VCE Languages study VCE Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics. Your school can give you more information about the VCE (Baccalaureate). There are also awards for students who are studying arts, music or media and/or for students involved in community service, and/or public speaking: VCE Season of Excellence Margaret Schofield Memorial Scholarship VCAA Plain English Speaking Award VCE Leadership Awards Premier s VCE Awards. Getting involved in these awards can help your career and personal development. Find out more about these awards on the VCAA website. Did you know? In 2014: more than 130,000 people visited the Top Designs exhibition at Melbourne Museum more than 3000 people attended Top Screen at ACMI nearly 9500 attended Top Class and Top Acts concerts more than 75,000 people visited Top Arts at NGV more than 180 students from across Victoria participated in the VCAA Plain English Speaking Award eight students received a VCE Leadership Award. 11

12 12 YEAR 10 Visual Communication Design Units 1 and 2 YEAR 11 Business Management Units 1 and 2, English Units 1 and 2, Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2, Media Units 1 and 2, Religion and Society Units 1 and 2, Studio Arts Units 1 and 2, Visual Communication Design Units 3 and 4 YEAR 12 English Units 3 and 4, Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4, Further Mathematics Units 3 and 4, Media Units 3 and 4, Studio Arts Units 3 and 4 VINH Photography and film were always a passion of mine. By choosing art-oriented subjects, I was able to keep engaged and interested throughout my time in high school. I also chose to do two mathematics subjects. I knew I had skill in this area, despite it not being directly related to the arts, and that I would do well. I thought a lot about my VCE program before starting Year 11, researching and speaking to a few teachers. I wanted to make sure my subjects would guarantee I had the right skills for my undergraduate course. Having a plan allowed me to use my time more effectively and keep up with the work. Ticking things off as I completed them kept me organised, and making sure that my notes were safely stored and ordered helped make SACs and exams less stressful. I tried to maintain a balance between study and rest. I found that I could reduce stress by having a set time for doing study, and having free time. Creating artworks, other than those I was producing for school, was motivating and gave me valuable experience. While developing my folio it was important not to be afraid to ask for feedback. Friends, teachers and industry professionals provided me with valuable insight. After the VCE, I attended a few interviews, and without the advice and comments from others I would not have done as well. Though I am fresh out of high school, the skills and folio I developed during my VCE made me feel like I was able to keep up with other students in my course who have had more industry experience.

13 PLANNING MY VCE PROGRAM Use this chart to plan the VCE program you would like to do, keeping in mind: whether you want to complete your VCE in two years (start in Year 11) or in three years (start in Year 10) that you have to include an approved combination of at least three units from the English group (see page 7), and at least three other sequences of Units 3 and 4 as well as the compulsory English units the list of VCE studies (see page 6) and the list of VCE VET programs (see pages 22 and 23) the student profiles in this booklet and advice from others about the program that is best for you. YEAR 10 YEAR 11 YEAR 12 UNIT 1 UNIT 2 UNIT 3 UNIT 4 13

14 14 During 2014 Sarah s VCAL studies included: Literacy and Numeracy Skills Reading and Writing Senior, Oral Communication Senior, Numeracy Skills Senior Industry Specific Skills Certificate II in Business Work Related Skills Units 1 and 2 Senior Personal Development Skills Units 1 and 2 Senior SARAH I started my senior secondary studies enrolled in VCE and doing a traineeship at a bank. I really enjoyed my traineeship, and developing my skills in a real-world context was an amazing experience. At the end of Year 11, I decided I wanted a pathway where I could focus on my traineeship and explore the workforce. I transferred to the VCAL and couldn t be happier with my decision. My favourite part of the VCAL was being able to choose my own path, to choose subjects that would give me the experience I needed for future careers I was interested in. As part of my VCAL I worked at a school for children with physical and intellectual disabilities. I helped students develop their reading and writing skills through activities and games, gaining insight into different ways of learning. I also completed a placement at a local childcare centre. For one hour, two days a week, I looked after kids up to five years of age. I enjoyed the responsibility and it was fascinating to see the children s different stages of development. Helping them at meal times and reading to them was very rewarding. I think you become energised when you can go out and do something you really like. VCAL has given me the confidence to be myself. Through collaborating in teams, acting as a leader and working with professionals, I have found my voice and can make a contribution. The experiences I have gained through VCAL gave me the push I needed, and I am now applying for jobs I could never have considered before. There are a lot of different choices out there that can take you to different places. I m glad I chose VCAL.

15 VCAL What is the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning? VCAL is a hands-on option for Year 11 and 12 students, offering practical work-related experience and learning. Like VCE, the VCAL is an accredited senior secondary qualification and is also offered at TAFE and a number of Learn Local organisations. You can start VCAL in Year 11 or 12, and also do a part-time apprenticeship or traineeship at the same time. The time it takes depends on how your VCAL program is structured. A VCAL qualification is usually completed in one year. If you complete VCAL, you can choose several career options, including: transferring to the VCE; going to TAFE; doing an apprenticeship or traineeship; and starting a job when school has finished. How does VCAL work? VCAL has three levels: Foundation, Intermediate and Senior. You can start and complete your VCAL at the level that matches your needs and abilities. Speak to your school if you need help with making this choice. VCAL has flexibility and you can work out a program that suits your interests and learning needs. When can I do VCAL? You can begin your VCAL program in Year 11 or Year 12 of secondary school (for some Year 10 students, Foundation VCAL may be an appropriate course of study). Where can I do the VCAL? VCAL is offered statewide at schools, TAFE institutes and Adult Community Education centres. There is a list of all VCAL providers on the VCAA website. 15

16 16 How do I get my VCAL? To get your VCAL you need to complete 10 units of study from the four compulsory strands. The strands are areas of learning and include: Literacy and Numeracy Skills Industry Specific Skills Work Related Skills Personal Development Skills. Your teacher or careers counsellor can help you develop a VCAL program that suits your particular learning needs and interests. What is a VCAL unit of study? A VCAL unit of study can be: one VCAL unit one VCE unit 90 hours for VET modules or units of competence and/or Further Education (FE) modules. Each unit of study must be relevant to one of the four VCAL curriculum strands. Your VCAL learning program must include: a minimum of two VCAL units at least one Literacy unit at least one Numeracy unit at least one unit from the Industry Specific Skills strand (at the Intermediate and Senior levels this must include a unit of study from a VET qualification) at least one unit from the Work Related Skills strand at least one unit from the Personal Development Skills strand six credits at the VCAL level attempted (Foundation, Intermediate or Senior) or above. One of these credits must be for Literacy and one must be for Personal Development Skills. How do I get marks for VCAL? All units in your VCAL program are assessed by your teacher and/or registered training organisation (RTO). If you include VCE studies in your VCAL, the VCE section of this booklet has further information on assessment. How will I get my results? You will receive a VCAL certificate for the level (Foundation, Intermediate or Senior) you chose to complete. You will receive a Statement of Results from the VCAA, listing all the VCAL, VCE and VCE VET units you were enrolled in and completed. You will also receive a Statement of Attainment from the RTO for VET or Further Education training that you have completed.

17 I ve already started a VET certificate. Will it 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 rest of your VCAL program. I ve already done a VCE subject. Will this count towards my VCAL? If you have an S result for the VCE unit, it may count towards your VCAL. You should speak to your teacher or careers counsellor to plan the rest of your VCAL program. Can I switch to the VCE if I change my mind? Can part-time work count towards my VCAL? Part-time work may contribute to your VCAL. Other work activities that may contribute to your VCAL include: a school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship voluntary work structured workplace learning placements. VCAL Achievement Awards The VCAL Achievement Awards acknowledge the achievements of VCAL students, teachers and partner organisations. Information about the awards can be found on the VCAA website. Yes. If you decide to take this option, discuss it with your teacher or careers counsellor. Can I complete a school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship as part of my VCAL program? A school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship can be good to do as part of your VCAL program, because it can meet two of the four VCAL curriculum strand requirements: Industry Specific Skills and Work Related Skills. See page 24 for more information on apprenticeships and traineeships. 17

18 18 During 2014 Jaden s VCAL studies included: Literacy and Numeracy Skills Reading and Writing Senior, Oral Communication Senior, General Mathematics Unit 2 Industry Specific Skills VCE VET Automotive Certificate II in Automotive Studies Work Related Skills Units 1 and 2 Senior Personal Development Skills Units 1 and 2 Senior JADEN VCAL was the best choice for me. The hands-on learning engaged me, and I was able to develop skills in my area of interest and demonstrate my abilities as an applied learner. An important feature of VCAL is the flexibility for students to connect their interests with their class projects. One of my hobbies is music so I decided to teach music as a part of my Personal Development strand. Through my VCAL I have taught more than a dozen students guitar and bass, helped coordinate a small music festival, and assisted in structuring a music program at my school. During Year 11, I completed VCE Systems Engineering at a Unit 3 and 4 level for my Industry Skills strand. I found this was a good opportunity do a Unit 3 and 4 subject in Year 11 to give me more time in Year 12 to get everything completed. VCAL has equipped me with many practical and personal skills. I have had many opportunities to meet new people and this has helped me become more confident, work well in teams and develop my abilities as a leader. During my VCAL studies I made sure that everything in my life was balanced. This meant making time for my school commitments including being senior school captain, SRC captain, studying and teaching music, and my out-of-school activities, such as spending time with friends. It was difficult at the start, but as with everything you learn how to manage it. The advice I would give to students considering VCAL is to see it as a different way of learning. There is a lot of flexibility within VCAL and you get more of a say with what you want to do and how you want to direct your own learning. VCAL gives you the opportunity to express your skills and shine as an individual within your area of personal interest. If you work hard in VCAL, you can achieve your goals.

19 PLANNING MY VCAL PROGRAM Your school or training provider will help you complete this table to develop a VCAL program that can best meet your needs, keeping in mind: VCAL level (your school or training provider can help you decide the best VCAL level for you) what you would like to do when you finish school/training which VET programs interest you which VCE studies you might want to include in your VCAL program whether you have a part-time job and you want to get credit for your experience at work your interest in combining work and training (in a school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship). LITERACY AND NUMERACY SKILLS STRAND WORK RELATED SKILLS STRAND INDUSTRY SPECIFIC SKILLS STRAND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SKILLS STRAND VCAL UNITS VCE UNITS VCE/VET PROGRAMS VET/FURTHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS CREDITS (for use by school or provider only) 19

20 20 YEAR 10 Biology Units 1 and 2 YEAR 11 Chemistry Units 1 and 2, English Language Units 1 and 2, Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2, General Maths Units 1 and 2, VCE VET Music Certificate III in Music Units 1 and 2, Biology Units 3 and 4 YEAR 12 Chemistry Units 3 and 4, English Language Units 3 and 4, Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4, Psychology Units 3 and 4, VCE VET Music Certificate III in Music Units 3 and 4 GEORGIA Music is a huge part of my life, but most of my studies revolved around science and maths. Right at the end of Year 10, I decided that I wanted to do VCE VET Music. It was the perfect subject for me. Studying VCE VET Music allowed me to experience a subject that was structured differently to most VCE subjects. Unlike VCE Music Performance, VCE VET Music was more relevant to the style of music that I play. VCE VET Music allows you to choose any genre and there is no set list of pieces that you have to study. VET subjects provide you with industry-based knowledge and hands-on experience. You also gain an industry-recognised certificate in your chosen area. Doing a VET subject doesn t mean you are doing an easy subject; it requires your time and attention. Everyone studies differently, and you need to find your own way. It really helps if you have been chipping away at your study rather than cramming on the night before a SAC or final exam. Try not to fall behind, although that is easier said than done. Allow extra time to focus on the subjects that are giving you trouble. Also make time for yourself, whether it is watching TV, reading or spending time with your family and friends. At the moment I am taking a gap year to look at my options and record my second album. I was also invited to play at the 2015 Top Class Music and Top Acts concerts. This is a huge accomplishment, and the recognition is steering me towards an arts or music career. Being adaptable and flexible along with planning and dedication is important. VCE is a great time to explore your interests. Set yourself goals and work hard, but remember it s your choice and it is okay if you change your mind.

21 VET Vocational Education and Training (VET) in the VCE or VCAL You can include vocational studies in VCE or VCAL by doing nationally recognised training in a number of areas. Currently there are over 20 VCE VET programs to choose from (see the list on pages 22 and 23). A booklet for each of the VCE VET programs is available on the VCAA website. How do I include VET in my VCE or VCAL? There are three ways to include VET as part of your VCE or VCAL. 1. Complete a VCE VET program VCE VET students do vocational training programs as part of their VCE or VCAL. VCE VET units will contribute towards satisfactory completion of your VCE or VCAL and also give you a qualification that is recognised around Australia. If you are interested in a particular area of work, ask your school about how a VCE VET program in this area will contribute to your VCE or VCAL. 2. Do a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship To become an apprentice or trainee you have to be in paid work and sign a contract of training, which must be registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA). Your VCE or VCAL program would then include: VCE or VCAL 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. There are many industries in which you can do a school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship as part of your VCE or VCAL, including agriculture, automotive, business, community services, engineering, horticulture, hospitality, information technology, retail, and sport and recreation. A school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship qualification contributes to satisfactory completion of the VCE or VCAL in the same way that VCE VET programs do by giving credit for Units 1 4. School-based apprenticeships or traineeships may contribute to an ATAR. Ask your school how a school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship can be organised for you. VCE VET programs that have Units 3 and 4 can be included in the calculation of an ATAR by VTAC. 21

22 3. Complete a different vocational training certificate If you are interested in doing a vocational training certificate that is not available as a VCE VET program, you may be able to count this training towards satisfactory completion of your VCE. Block credit is the name given to this arrangement. There are specific rules for block credit, so ask your VET or VCE coordinator for more information to make sure your certificate will count towards your VCE or VCAL. How do I get my results? If you complete a VET qualification in any of these ways, you will receive a certificate from the RTO as well as credit toward the VCE or VCAL. Interested in an Industry Pathway? Check out the VET section of VCAA website. 22 VCE VET PROGRAMS IN 2016 Individual schools may not offer all these programs. You may be able to complete a VET program at another school or RTO. Agriculture, Horticulture and Conservation and Land Management Certificate II in Agriculture Certificate II in Conservation and Land Management Certificate II in Horticulture (all sectors) Animal Studies Certificate II in Animal Studies Applied Fashion Design and Technology Certificate II in Applied Fashion Design and Technology Applied Languages Certificate II in Applied Languages Certificate III in Applied Languages Automotive Certificate II in Automotive Technology Studies Building and Construction Certificate II in Building and Construction* Business Certificate II in Business Cisco Cisco Networking Academy Program * Pre-apprenticeship qualifications

23 Community Services Certificate II in Community Services* Dance Certificate II in Dance Electrical Industry Certificate II in Electrotechnology Studies Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) Engineering Certificate II in Engineering Studies* Equine Studies Certificate II in Equine Studies Furnishing Certificate II in Furniture Making Health Certificate II in Health Support Services Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance Certificate III in Health Services Assistance Hospitality Certificate III in Catering Operations Information Communication Technology Certificate II in Information Digital Media and Technology Certificate III in Information Digital Media and Technology Integrated Technologies Certificate II in Integrated Technologies Interactive Digital Media Certificate II in Creative Industries (Media) Certificate III in Media Laboratory Skills Certificate III in Laboratory Skills Music Certificate II in Music Certificate III in Music Certificate III in Technical Production Small Business Certificate II in Small Business (Operations/ Innovation) Sport and Recreation Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation Certificate II in Sport and Recreation Certificate III in Sport and Recreation * Pre-apprenticeship qualifications 23

24 24 APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS What are apprenticeships and traineeships? An apprenticeship or traineeship is a pathway to skilled employment and further training opportunities. An apprenticeship or traineeship can be undertaken on a full- or part-time basis or as a school-based arrangement, and can be used as a valuable stepping stone to a career in one of more than 500 occupations across a wide range of industries. To do an apprenticeship or traineeship you must have a job with an employer. Apprentices and trainees learn industry skills by combining paid work with training through an RTO such as a TAFE institute or private training provider. The training leads to a vocational qualification, ranging from a Certificate I to an Advanced Diploma level, and is recognised throughout Australia. To find out all there is to know about apprenticeships and traineeships visit the Department of Education and Training (DET) website: au/training/employers/apprentices/pages/default.aspx What is an apprenticeship? For 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. An apprenticeship leads to becoming a tradesperson, such as a plumber, a carpenter, an electrician or a hairdresser. What is a traineeship? For 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. A traineeship leads to an occupation, such as a childcare worker, a business administrator, or a retail or hospitality service employee. Victorian Skills Gateway The Victorian Skills Gateway is a one-stop shop to help you choose the industry and occupation for your apprenticeship or traineeship, identify a course and find an RTO. Victorian Skills Gateway: vic.gov.au/victorianskillsgateway/pages/ home.aspx

25 Are there different ways of doing an apprenticeship and traineeship? Yes, while still at school you can: Once you have left school you can: do a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT) do a part-time apprenticeship or traineeship outside school hours do a pre-apprenticeship to prepare you for an apprenticeship. convert your SBAT to a full or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship until it is complete, or finish the part-time apprenticeship or traineeship that you began while at school do a full- or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship do a pre-apprenticeship to prepare you for an apprenticeship. What are school-based apprenticeships and traineeships? If you are enrolled in the VCE or VCAL, an SBAT can offer you the opportunity to combine school with part-time employment and VET. An SBAT becomes part of your senior secondary school program and your school study timetable. A number of people are involved in arranging an SBAT, including you, your parents, the employer, the RTO, your school and an Australian Apprenticeship Centre. An SBAT requires approximately two days a week, consisting of both training and employment. An SBAT contributes towards your VCE or VCAL, leads to a nationally recognised qualification and includes paid work. If you would like further information about doing an SBAT, visit the DET website: employers/apprentices/pages/parttime.aspx What are pre-apprenticeships? A pre-apprenticeship is a course of training completed before you undertake an apprenticeship. Pre-apprenticeship courses may be undertaken part-time while you are still at school, as part of your VCE or VCAL studies. You can also undertake a pre-apprenticeship after you have completed school. A pre-apprenticeship course is a great opportunity to get into the industry of your choice. Completion of a pre-apprenticeship course will help to: give you some basic skills, or improve your existing skills pave the way for the learning you will get as part of your apprenticeship provide a feel for your chosen industry and prepare you for work. There are pre-apprenticeships available for a variety of trades in the following industries: automotive, building and construction, electrotechnology and communications, metals and engineering, and hairdressing. Some of these pre-apprenticeships are the same as the VCE VET programs in those industries. 25

26 26 YEAR 10 VCE VET Health Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance Units 3 and 4, Industry and Enterprise Unit 1 YEAR 11 Biology Units 1 and 2, English Units 1 and 2, Health and Human Development Units 1 and 2, General Mathematics Units 1 and 2, Religion and Society Units 1 and 2, VCE VET Health Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance Units 3 and 4 YEAR 12 Business Management Units 3 and 4, English Units 3 and 4, Health and Human Development Units 3 and 4, Further Mathematics Units 3 and 4, Certificate III in Aged Care CAITLIN I saw my VCE as an opportunity to explore my interests and try something new. Thinking about my options early gave me direction and made the transition into VCE easier. Having aspired to be a nurse from a young age, I wanted to choose studies that could enhance my knowledge of health-related fields and help me develop skills for the future. When selecting my subjects I found it useful to ask for advice. I spoke to older students about their VCE experiences and discussed my interests with the careers counsellor at my school. My careers counsellor suggested that I try hands-on work in the field of my interest. I completed a VET Allied Health course, where I spent one day each fortnight at a hospital learning theory and practical skills. Afterwards I wasn t ready to stop doing hands-on work. I decided to do a school-based apprenticeship in aged care to see what other health areas were out there. I had an interview with the manager of the facility and I began working there before I had even started Year 12. My school-based apprenticeship was one of the most rewarding things I have done and I would highly recommend it to other students. You learn practical skills in a real-world context and the experience can help confirm what area you would like to work in after school. It made me realise that I have a passion for caring for the elderly, and it also provided me with a job that I still have now. My strategies for managing my studies evolved as I adapted to the workload. Preparation was very important. I dedicated time to independent study and made revision books for each subject. This created a glossary of all my knowledge that I could review nightly. A healthy mix of all aspects of life was also essential. I wanted to work hard during my VCE and make the most of it. I achieved a balance of work, study, socialising and exercise through planning. This helped me keep a clear and positive mind set, which improved my study.

27 To start a pre-apprenticeship you can visit the Victorian Skills Gateway to choose a pre-apprenticeship course and to find an RTO that offers it. You can also visit the Australian Apprenticeships Pathways website to search for pre-apprenticeship courses by locality and industry: What is the difference between a pre-apprenticeship and an apprenticeship? Unlike apprenticeships, students undertaking a preapprenticeship do not have a job with an employer. When you have successfully finished a pre-apprenticeship course, the RTO may be able to help you find an employer to start an apprenticeship. If you do find employment as an apprentice, completion of a pre-apprenticeship may reduce the duration of your apprenticeship. 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. How do part-time apprenticeships and traineeships differ from an SBAT? Part-time apprenticeships and traineeships may be undertaken by school students outside of school hours. For school-enrolled students in these part-time arrangements, both the training and employment must be independent of the school program and the school is not required to: sign off on a training plan integrate your employment or training into the school timetable. An SBAT is funded under the Victorian Training Guarantee (VTG). This training will not affect your future eligibility for funded training under the VTG. Part-time apprenticeships and traineeships not integrated into the school program (that is, on weekends or after school hours) are not funded by the government under the VTG. This does not prevent an employer directly subsidising your training. To find out more about the VTG eligibility criteria and about how funding is applied, visit the DET website: au/training/learners/vet/pages/funding.aspx 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. Generally, the work placement will be up to 40 days. This differs from the employment relationship required as part of an apprenticeship or traineeship. 27

28 28 What is competency-based completion? Apprenticeships in Victoria are competency based. This means your apprenticeship is complete once your RTO has assessed that you meet all the required competencies for the qualification and your employer confirms that you are competent in the workplace. The length of an apprenticeship will differ for each apprentice or trainee based on your previous experience and training and how quickly you learn the skills needed for the trade. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), for skills you have already gained through earlier training or experience, and Credit Transfer, for related qualifications (such as a pre-apprenticeship) may reduce the amount of training you need to do and shorten your apprenticeship or traineeship. Your RTO will identify any RPL and Credit Transfer as part of developing a training plan with you and your employer at the start of your apprenticeship or traineeship. Your training plan is a living document that will change to reflect your progress as you move through your apprenticeship or traineeship. I have decided to do an apprenticeship or traineeship You have taken the opportunity to earn while you learn. When you have finished your apprenticeship or traineeship, you will have a nationally recognised qualification and the skills for a successful career in your chosen field. Step one: Find out what apprenticeships and traineeships are available by: visiting the Victorian Skills Gateway speaking to your school career counsellor, parents or guardians. Step two: Choose an apprenticeship or traineeship in the industry that is right for you. Consider undertaking a pre-apprenticeship to get a better understanding of the industry and show potential employers that you are keen. Step three: Find an employer by: visiting the internet jobs database: speaking to your local RTO writing to or approaching employers directly asking your school careers counsellor

29 speaking to the RTO at which you did your preapprenticeship (if you chose to do one) contacting Group Training Australia on A Group Training Organisation employs an apprentice or trainee and places them with a host employer. GLOSSARY These are some of the terms used throughout this booklet and how they relate to the VCE and VCAL. Step four: Sign a training contract with an employer and start work. Establish a training plan between you, your employer and an RTO, and start training. Real stories Find out how an apprenticeship can lead to a successful and rewarding career by watching videos on the following websites: Victorian Skills Gateway: victorianskillsgateway/pages/home.aspx DET Facebook: Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) This is the overall ranking on a scale of 0.00 to that you receive, based on your study scores. 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 Training (DET) The Victorian government department that administers school education, apprenticeships and traineeships. General Achievement Test (GAT) The test that is done by all students doing a VCE Unit 3 and 4 sequence or a scored VCE VET Unit 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. 29