INTRODUCTION TO VCE

The Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) offers a range of options to the student that complements the work undertaken in Years 7 – 10 and which also acts as a foundation for further studies or career choices.

To maximise opportunities and experiences the VCE extends over 2 years. Some students may be strongly advised at the end of their first year to extend their VCE to a 3 year program. This advice will be based on the students’ preparedness to cope with the assessment program in Year 12 as demonstrated in their first year of VCE. A major aim of study in Years 11 and 12 is to encourage the student to develop self-discipline and become responsible for his own learning.

Transitioning to VCE

• To transition into VCE into any given subject a student should have been successful in that subject or a related unit in Year 10. The quality of Year 10 results will affect the subject choices available to students.

• Students are strongly advised to consult both the appropriate subject coordinator and teacher prior to all subject choices.

How do I choose?

• Determine your dreams and ambitions for future career paths.

• Work out how you might get there (don’t forget there will be several different pathways to get you where you want to go).

• Will you need to go on to Higher Education (University or TAFE Diplomas) or will you need an apprenticeship or traineeship?

• Are there any subjects in Years 11 and 12 that you MUST take (prerequisites) to enter the course or jobs you are researching?

• Most courses or jobs only require you to have an English Study and 1 or 2 other subjects. The other subjects you can study should be the ones you are best at and enjoy the most.

• Get your information from reputable sources (e.g. course guides, Industry Representatives, Careers Practitioners etc).

• Rank the jobs and courses into your order of preference then investigate them in detail (e.g. Open days, VICTER, Handbooks and on line web resources).

Before you make the final choice

1. Realistically assess your own abilities. Look at previous test, exam, project and essay grades and comments. How well did you perform in these tasks?

2. Based on your self-assessment, determine the career goals available to you (this should involve gathering information from parents, teachers, the careers practitioner and career resources).

3. Be aware of the importance of Years 11 and 12 to your future and be prepared to cope with the demands and commitment they will entail.