Young People and Vocational Education and Training Options: at a Glance

By Davinia Woods

Students, while still at school, can now undertake VET subjects, full course programs or a school-based New Apprenticeship as part of their senior secondary certificate, which also contribute towards a recognised VET qualification.

Previously, students could only undertake school curriculum, which focused on preparing them for higher education. The social benefits of recognised VET qualifications in schools are starting to be realised, and include improved student maturity, independence and motivation for learning, reduced absenteeism and greater understanding of career options.

Stakeholder groups overwhelmingly acknowledge that structured workplace learning, where students gain industry-specific skills from real work, is central to achieving the above-mentioned social benefits and to raising the profile of VET as a worthwhile education option. However, only school-based New Apprenticeships always include structured workplace learning. To meet the demand, new models of quality structured workplace learning may be needed.

(National Centre for Vocational Education Research)