VCE Vocational Major
What is the VCE Vocational Major (VM)?
The VCE Vocational Major is a vocational and applied learning program that sits within the VCE, designed to be completed over a minimum of two years.
The VCE Vocational Major takes what is called an ‘Applied Learning Approach’. Applied learning involves students engaging in relevant and authentic learning experiences. It is a method of learning where theoretical information comes to life for students when in a real-world context that relates directly to their own future, is within their own control and is within an environment where they feel safe and respected. Students' knowledge grows and expands as they take action to learn, reflect on that action and plan how to do it better next time.
VCE VM aims to provide students with the best opportunity to achieve their personal goals and aspirations in a rapidly changing world by:
equipping them with the skills, knowledge, values and capabilities to be active and informed citizens, lifelong learners and confident and creative individuals; and
empowering them to make informed decisions about the next stages of their lives through real life workplace experiences.
The VCE VM will give students greater choice and flexibility to pursue their strengths and interests and develop the skills and capabilities needed to succeed in further education, work and life. It prepares students to move into apprenticeships, traineeships, further education and training, university (via non-ATAR pathways) or directly into the workforce.
There are no external examinations for the VCE VM studies, apart from the GAT (General Achievement Test) and therefore students do not receive a study score, and are not eligible to receive an ATAR. Students who have completed the satisfactory completion requirements of the VCE VM will receive a Victorian Certificate of Education with the words Vocational Major on it to recognise their achievements.
How is the VCE VM Structured?
The VCE Vocational Major has specific subjects designed to prepare students for a vocational pathway. The subjects are: VCE VM Literacy, VCE VM Numeracy, VCE VM Work Related Skills, VCE VM Personal Development Skills and 180 hours of VET at Certificate II level or above).
Each subject has four units and each unit has a set of outcomes which are assessed through a range of learning activities and tasks.
Students will apply knowledge and skills in practical settings and also undertake integrated community-based activities and projects that involve working in a team.
Completing the VCE VM
Students must successfully finish at least 16 units, including:
3 VCE VM Literacy or VCE English units (including a Unit 3–4 sequence)
3 other Unit 3-4 sequences
2 VCE VM Numeracy or VCE Mathematics units
2 VCE VM Work Related Skills units
2 VCE VM Personal Development Skills units, and
2 VET credits at Certificate II level or above (180 hours)
Most students will undertake between 16 - 20 units over the two years. You can also do other VCE subjects, and structured workplace learning.
The result of Satisfactory or Not Satisfactory is determined at a school level for each unit. This decision is based on the work submitted and must follow the VCAA, and school rules and procedures.