Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses give students practical, industry‑recognised skills while they are still at school. They combine classroom learning with hands‑on, workplace‑style training. 

Yes. All VET courses count toward the HSC. Some VET courses also offer nationally recognised qualifications (e.g., Certificate II or III). 

Some can. VET courses with an optional HSC exam (e.g., Hospitality, Business Services, Construction) may contribute to the ATAR if the student sits the exam. If you don’t sit the exam, the course still counts toward your HSC but not your ATAR. 

Many VET courses allow students to earn a nationally recognised qualification, such as:

• Certificate II

• Certificate III

• Industry‑specific competencies

These qualifications are recognised by employers, TAFE and training organisations.

Most VET courses require mandatory work placement, usually:

• 35 hours per year (70 hours for a 240‑hour course)

Work placement gives students real‑world experience in the industry they are studying.

You must make up the hours. Work placement is a NESA requirement, and missing it may put you at risk of not completing the course. 

Some do. VET courses that are ATAR‑eligible include an optional HSC exam. Sitting the exam is required only if you want the course to count toward your ATAR. 

Not easier — just different.

VET focuses on:

• Practical skills

• Industry expectations

• Competency‑based assessment

Students who enjoy hands‑on learning often thrive in VET.

Instead of marks, VET students are assessed as:

• Competent (you can do the skill)

• Not Yet Competent (you need more practice)

You can be reassessed after further training.

You can be marked Not Yet Competent, but you will continue to receive training until you demonstrate the required skills.

However, you can fail to complete the course if you:

• Do not attend

• Do not complete work placement

• Do not participate in required training

Yes.

VET courses are highly valued by employers and can lead to:

• Apprenticeships

• Traineeships

• Part‑time work

• TAFE pathways

• Industry qualifications

They provide a strong foundation for many career areas.

VET courses are taught by:

• VET‑qualified teachers, or

• External Registered Training Organisations (RTOs)

All trainers meet industry and NESA requirements.

Students can speak with:

• The Careers Adviser

• VET Coordinator

• Head Teacher of the relevant faculty

• Their Year Adviser