GUIDES

There are many ways that students can connect with the world of work:

• Work Experience (WE) enables students to observe and explore possible career options while undertaking a short term placement in a real workplace. WE is available to all students over 15 years old, however some exceptions for younger students may apply.
• Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) placements provide students with the opportunity to integrate on-the-job training with their vocational education. SWL can be undertaken by both VCE and VCAL students who are over 15 years old, depending on their course of study. 
• School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) are available to secondary students who are over 15 years old. SBATs offer students the option of combining part-time employment, school and vocational training. 
• School Community Work is volunteering activity undertaken by students which is approved by the school, supports learning and career development, and directly benefits the community. School community work is available for all secondary school students.
• Events (EV) can include guest speakers, work visits, mock interviews, and work-readiness preparation that help students understand employer expectations.
• Vocational education and training (VET) for secondary school students helps students to cross the bridge between general education and the world of work. Many employers expect school leavers to have some practical experience, enabling them to quickly become productive in the work environment. Undertaken as part of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) studies, VET programs enable students to develop the skills and attitudes that employers look for in workers. Including VET programs in the curriculum expands opportunities and pathways for senior secondary school students, and helps them to:

• navigate the world of work
• interact with others
• plan and organise
• identify and solve problems
• create and innovate, and
• work in a digital world.

VET programs for secondary school students are typically at the Certificate II and Certificate III levels. VET programs are delivered directly by the school, if the school is also a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Alternatively, VET programs are provided through partnership arrangements between the school and an RTO. TAFE Institutes are public RTOs, and there are commercial, private RTOs in the marketplace.