LEARNING IN YEAR 11 AND 12

In Years 11 and 12, students complete the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), or the Victorian Certificate of Education - Vocational Major (VCE-VM), in which a wide range of different studies is on offer. At this stage of their schooling, students find that their abilities, interests and career needs take them in very different directions. Ballarat Grammar aims to provide academic programs for the senior years that will suit as many pupils as possible, whatever their abilities, interests and needs.

While most Ballarat Grammar students will be planning to complete VCE and go on to further education at university or TAFE, students primarily interested in going on to training at a TAFE institute, starting an apprenticeship, or getting a job after completing school may select to undertake the Victorian Certificate of Education - Vocational Major.

Usually, a VCE student program at Year 11 would consist of six VCE Unit 1-2 subjects (one of which must be English, English Literature or English Language).

In most cases the School recommends that students undertake a Unit 3-4 study in Year 11. The increased expectations at Unit 3-4 means that the study must be one where the student has some previous experience and knowledge of the study or a heightened interest in the field.

Usually, a VCE student program at Year 12 would consist of five VCE Unit 3 and 4 subjects (one of which must be English, English Literature or English Language). Subject selection is supported by the Careers Department and the student meeting with a Careers Advisor.

The VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) is a pathway choice with a focus on 'real life'/ Applied Learning projects and skills. Whenever possible, tasks and assessments have a practical focus.

Available as an option for all students in Years 11 and 12, the VCE VM is a recognised senior secondary qualification. This qualification provides a pathway to further tertiary education or entry into the workforce.

The structure of the VCE VM requires students to complete 16 units over two years, plus 2 VET Credits:

Literacy - Unit 1-2 in Year 11, Units 3-4 in Year 12

Numeracy - Unit 1-2 in Year 11, Units 3-4 in Year 12

Work Related Skills - Unit 1-2 in Year 11, Units 3-4 in Year 12

Personal Development Skills - Unit 1-2 in Year 11, Units 3-4 in Year 12

The VCE VM enables students to complete study programs that suit their interests and learning. VM students will also complete Digital Credential curriculum components. A Certificate or Statement of Results will be issued to students on completion of their VCE VM.