Structured Workplace Learning

Unit 1:

Learning in the workplace

In Unit 1, students investigate Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) options and plan and participate in their first SWL placement in an industry aligned with their VCE VET qualification and matched to their individual skills and interests.

The learning outcomes for each Structured Workplace Learning Recognition for VET unit must reflect different SWL experiences, and a specific Workplace Learning Record (WLR) is used to document this learning. To complete Unit 1, students are required to undertake at least 80 hours of SWL placement and the Work Health and Safety (WHS) unit of competency for their VET qualification.

Through SWL, students gain practical experience, engage in meaningful work-related tasks, develop industry-specific knowledge and skills, and apply and consolidate knowledge gained from a VET qualification. SWL provides students with a greater understanding of the workplace and industry culture.

After completing their first SWL, students reflect on their observations and the activities they were exposed to during their work placement. This reinforces vocational training undertaken in VET units of competency and identifies differences in practices and areas where further training or practical experience may be required.

SWL allows students to learn and practice employability skills contextualised to the workplace setting, which are valued by industry and employers. Students discuss their employability skills and the and what they learnt in the workplace and reassess their career goals.

SWL introduces a specific workplace, occupation and industry and provides students with knowledge about that occupation or industry that cannot be taught in the classroom. In Unit 1, students begin to establish industry networks and build relationships with employers and staff, which is essential for career development and the transition from school to employment or further training.

There are two areas of study for Unit 1:

Unit 2:

Developing in the workplace

In Unit 2, students plan and participate in their second SWL placement in an industry aligned with their VCE VET qualification to consolidate their knowledge, skills and experience in the workplace.

The learning outcomes for each Structured Workplace Learning Recognition for VET unit must reflect different SWL experiences and a specific Workplace Learning Record (WLR) should be used to document this learning. Students are required to complete at least 80 hours of SWL placement and commence the Work Health and Safety (WHS) unit of competency for their VET qualification as part of Unit 2.

In Unit 2, students undertake SWL in a different workplace setting or context to that of Unit 1. Students compare their experiences in different workplace settings or contexts to develop their readiness for their future career pathway. Through their second SWL placement, students continue to build on their practical experience, engage in meaningful work-related tasks, develop industry-specific knowledge and skills, and apply and consolidate knowledge gained from a VET qualification. Through exposure to multiple workplace settings or contexts, students gain a greater understanding of the workplace and the industry cultures.

SWL allows students to actively participate in a specific workplace, occupation and industry and provides students with knowledge about that occupation or industry that cannot be taught in the classroom. In Unit 2, students establish industry networks and build relationships with employers and staff, which is essential for career development and the transition from school to employment or further training.


There are two areas of study for Unit 1:

AOS1: Participate in Structured Workplace Learning

AOS2: Evaluate participation in Structured Workplace Learning