TAFE & Adult Provision VCAL review into ‘hands-on’ education

The Andrews Labor government has launched a review into the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) and vocational education and training (VET) in schools, with a view to improving students’ transition between school, further education and work. 

VCAL is a ‘hands-on’ option primarily for students in Years 11 and 12, giving them practical work-related experience alongside literacy and numeracy skills. 

It enables thousands of students each year to undertake apprenticeships, traineeships, further education and employment, and to receive nationally recognised qualifications, while also gaining their senior school certificate.

Many of our TAFEs have strong VCAL programs, providing a flexible way to engage students in a vocational education pathway. Sometimes the program is delivered by the school or in conjunction with private providers, in addition to the programs delivered through TAFE.

John Firth, former CEO of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) will lead the review. He will be supported by a reference group, including representatives from schools and industry, as well as experts in the economic and employment sectors. The AEU is also represented.

The review will look at possible reforms in infrastructure, funding, administration and workforce required to ensure all VCAL students have a quality applied learning program. It will also examine how to develop better industry connections and ensure students are training in areas of skills shortages.

The final report is due in May 2020. Find more information here.