Victorian Certificate of Education: Vocational Major (VCE VM)

VCAL Freqently Asked Questions

Who is best suited to VCAL?

VCAL is for you if you:

• learn best by doing and enjoy "hands on" experience

• want to be working soon (and have ruled out University in the short term)

• have a clear vocational pathway (you have chose a trade or industry)

VCAL is definitely not an option for those who are simply struggling with mainstream education. To be suitable you must be answering yes to the above questions.

Does VCAL rule out University?

In the short term the answer is yes, as VCAL is essentially a pathway to work or further technical training (TAFE). For university entrance, students require an ATAR score, which is only obtainable through the VCE. However, in the long term if circumstances change, there are a number of different avenues whereby an individual, as a mature age student, can enter University.

Is VET (Vocational Education and Training) compulsory?

Yes, unless the student secures a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship. A compulsory part of VCAL is developing industry specific skills. At St. Joseph’s this is mainly achieved through completion of a VET certificate. There are a number of VET certificates offered through our local schools, TAFE and internally here at St. Joseph’s that can cater for individual needs.

All VCAL students will also be enrolled in VET Business and gain accreditation and skills in this area. This will be integrated into the VCAL learning program during the week.

What employability skills are being developed through VCAL?

The main focus of VCAL is to increase the employability of students. Developing a portfolio of skills, experiences and qualifications helps to provide a competitive advantage when seeking employment. The following skills (as identified by the Australian Government Framework for Employability Skills) are developed in the VCAL program.

• Teamwork

• Planning and organising

• Communication

• Self-management

• Problem solving

• Learning

• Initiative and enterprise

• Technology

Are VCAL students involved with other year level activities?

Yes. VCAL students complete Religious Education with VCE students, are a member of a Learning Mentor group and

participate in any extra curricula activities (like sporting days). At the end of Year 12 VCAL students (upon successful

completion) are presented with their VCAL certificate at the Graduation Mass.

For further information please refer to page 91 of the St. Joseph's College Senior School Subject Information Handbook.