In Victoria, completing the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) offers various pathways to further education and career opportunities. If you're exploring your options for finishing VCE, here’s a guide to help you understand the choices available:
Firstly, the traditional VCE (Victorian Certificate Education) is the most common route. It prepares students for higher education at TAFE, university, or other Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers. VCE subjects encompass a wide range of fields, from arts and sciences to humanities and languages. Typically, you will study Units 1 and 2 in Year 11, and Units 3 and 4 in Year 12. Each subject consists of four units studied over two years, with assessments including classroom activities and exams. Additionally, the General Achievement Test (GAT) is part of the VCE assessment process.
An alternative within the VCE framework is the VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM). This option integrates traditional VCE subjects with vocational training, offering a blend of academic and practical experience. It focuses on literacy, numeracy, work-related skills, and personal development. At Kangan Institute, students can choose from various streams under the VCE VM, such as Building and Construction, Carpentry, Allied Health, Animal Care, and more. You can explore these options in more detail here.
This pathway requires students to complete at least 180 hours of Vocational Education and Training (VET) to enhance their employability. Importantly, there are no exams unless students opt for scored VCE subjects. Graduates receive the VCE with the additional designation of “Vocational Major.”
Another option is the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC). This program is generally completed in Years 11 and 12 but offers flexibility in terms of starting and finishing times, allowing students to tailor their study period according to their needs. The VPC provides a more accessible level of coursework compared to traditional VCE and VCE VM, covering literacy, numeracy, work-related skills, and personal development. Assessment is based on classroom activities rather than exams. The VPC is recommended by schools based on individual student needs and is decided in consultation with the student, their parents, and the school. Graduates receive the VCE with the additional title “Pathways Certificate.”
Jokai Foti, a VPC student, shared his positive experience: “Studying at Bendigo TAFE has been rewarding. The coursework is straightforward and easier to grasp, thanks to the supportive teachers and a friendly environment that suits me better than traditional schooling. Whenever I’ve struggled, my classmates and teachers have been there to help. Balancing my workload with other commitments has been manageable due to the structured guidance from my teachers, who provide clear expectations and sufficient in-class time for tasks. The welcoming atmosphere and interactive introductions eased my initial challenges.”
Some students also opt to extend their VCE studies over more than two years (such as Year 13) to better match their learning pace. Additionally, school-based apprenticeships offer a way to combine VCE studies with hands-on work experience.
When considering your VCE pathway, think about your interests, career goals, and learning style. Each option has its unique benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal and professional aspirations. Completing VCE can lead to further education, employment opportunities, and personal growth—explore the pathways that best fit your future goals.
For more information on VCE VM and VPC options, visit Kangan Institute’s website.
