What is VCE?
The Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) is a certificate that recognises the successful completion of your secondary education. It is an outstanding qualification that is recognised around the world. The VCE provides pathways to further study at university, Technical and Further Education (TAFE) and to the world of work. It is even possible to undertake a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship within your VCE.
VCE 'study' is broken up into four units. Each VCE study unit is numbered 1, 2, 3 or 4. Student programs may include some Units 1 and 2 in the second or final year and/or some Units 3 and 4 in the first year.
The
VCE Studies and Resources is an alphabetical index to each study. Each study page provides past and sample exams (containing some answers), Study Designs, assessment advice and other teacher support materials relating to that study. Search for a VCE course at Chisholm in the search box at the top of this page.
Where does VCE lead?
VCE can lead to University courses, TAFE courses, other further study and employment opportunities.
Who can apply?
Students in VCE courses at Chisholm have completed Year 10.
Students aged 18 or over must complete eight Year 12 units and those under 18 years must complete 16 units of study to obtain their VCE. Those aged over 18 years must have been away from full time schooling for 12 months to be eligible for Adult VCE.
Why study VCE at Chisholm?
Students complete VCE to increase employment opportunities, for personal development, or to prepare for study at University
Studying VCE at Chisholm allows students to participate and learn in an adult environment with flexible study options including part time and evening classes. Completion of VCE at Chisholm can lead to pathways into other courses.
What’s in a VCE course?
VCE at Chisholm offers a range of subjects including mathematics and sciences, humanities, business, information technology and the arts, studies in heath and physical education. Subjects may include course work, excursions, and practical units.
The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) is a hands-on option for Year 11 and 12. The VCAL provides practical work related experience with literacy and numeracy skills and personal development. It is suitable for students looking for an alternative to VCE who would like to combine their study with hands on work related skills. VCAL is structured at three award levels; Foundation, Intermediate and Senior. Further information about VCAL is available on the website of
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA).
Where does VCAL lead?
On successful completion, you will receive a VCAL Certificate and a Statement of Results. You will also receive a Statement of Attainment or certificate listing the units of study you have completed in the trade area. Opportunities following completion of VCAL include an Apprenticeship or Traineeship, VCAL Senior, VCE Year 12, TAFE programs or employment.
Who can apply?
VCAL is a one year course and has been designed to extend the opportunities for young students aged 15-19 years old who have not successfully achieved a Year 12 or equivalent.
Why study VCAL at Chisholm?
You can study VCAL at school but some people like doing the course at Chisholm because the TAFE learning environment suits them better. Because Chisholm is a more adult place to study, you will be expected to take more responsibility for your learning and to be able to work in a mature and respectful manner.
What’s in a VCAL course?
VCAL offers skills in reading, writing, maths, communication skills, personal development, study and work but also offers work placement, and trade classes. A VCAL course is 1000 hours in length and is studied full-time over one year.
The program is structured as follows:
Literacy and Numeracy Skills
You build written and verbal communication and mathematical skills for work, life and further study. This includes building the skills that allow you to learn new information and to develop strategies for thriving in an evolving society and workforce. It is important to us that you graduate with a ‘toolkit’ for your future success.
Classes are closely related to the knowledge and skills you will need in the vocational stream they have selected. For example, if you are studying health & Nursing you will study literacy and numeracy skills that are associated with that field of study.
Work Related Skills
As part of your VCAL course, you engage in work placement as well as build an understanding of your current and future roles in the work place. Many have gained apprenticeships and employment with their work placement employer.
You are also taught about the vocational and broader skills and qualities employers are seeking in their employees. You are encouraged to reflect on your ability to work as part of a team and independently and to build skills that create a higher level of effectiveness in these areas. The Business Council of Australia has noted that future employees need the following employability skills:
We are committed to developing these skills in all of our students.
Personal Development Skills
The focus of this subject is very practical in nature. It is about having an awareness of how well you manage their time and efforts, and includes such things as organisational and planning skills. You are encouraged to understand the role you and others have in the broader society. This means you actively participate in sporting, cultural or community related activities.
Industry Specific (Vocational) Skills
The Industry Specific (Vocational) Skills program is a vital aspect of the VCAL structure. Typically this part of the VCAL course takes place over two or three days.
