Students can choose to complete Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses as part of their senior school certificate. The VET units can provide credit towards the student’s SACE and can lead to Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) for university entrance. In addition, VET can provide hands-on practical experience that can also lead into an apprenticeship or traineeship. There are a wide variety of VET courses available. There may be courses run at a student’s home school, another school or trade training centre.  If students are interested in a course that is not run at their school, it may be offered through a private provider or Registered Training Organisation (RTO).  You can talk to your school’s Careers Guidance Counsellor or VET Coordinator who can let you know what courses are available and how to apply. All students attending VET courses must first get the approval of their school.

VET is an excellent choice of study for many students. It always includes practical, hands-on learning, and it can lead to excellent jobs in many fields.

Studying VET as part of the SACE will give you a head start on a qualification, which is a great way to fast-track progress towards a rewarding career, while also developing independence and time-management skills.

VET courses are highly valued by students, parents and employers. VET courses will enable you to combine accredited training with SACE studies and provide applied learning that is practical, work-based and assists in preparation for your transition to work and/or further study.

You can choose VET courses for a wide range of reasons. Some students may want to maximise their ATAR for university entrance; some may wish to gain a head start with their trade training while at school; and others wish to develop skills that are relevant to their personal interests.

Generally students are in Years 10, 11 and 12 and enrolled in SACE through their school. It is advisable to speak to the school directly for further details about their VET program as they can vary between schools.

Vocational Education & Training (VET) courses are taught by qualified teachers/trainers at school or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) such as TAFE SA. Not all schools can offer all VET courses which means that depending on your school, you may need to travel to another venue to complete a course. Make sure you check with the school to make sure that your selected VET course fits in with your SACE plan and school timetable.

• www.sace.sa.edu.au/web/vet
• www.careerlinks.nsw.edu.au
• www.dow.catholic.edu.au