Study VCE at The Gordon - An alternative approach

2025-02-27

Are you looking for an alternative education pathway? 

Gavin Wake, Principal of The Gordon’s Senior College, shares the following information about studying VCE and other learning opportunities for secondary students at The Gordon. 

“Every student learns differently, and the key is to find an environment where they feel supported and engaged. Education isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the right choice is where they feel they can thrive.”

Learn more 

Students studying VCE at the Gordon Geelong with the Principle of the senior school
Students Gabby Baker and Keyda Silver pictured with Principal Gavin Wake

What opportunities for learning does The Gordon have for secondary students?

The Gordon proudly offers a range of educational options for secondary students. As Geelong’s only alternative provider of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), we provide a supportive learning environment where students can thrive. Whether a student is looking for a traditional VCE experience, a vocational pathway, or a hands-on learning approach, we offer tailored programs to meet different needs.

What study options are available for students?

Students can study VCE at The Gordon in a dynamic, flexible setting that caters to different learning styles. For those not yet ready for VCE, we offer the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC), designed for students aged 15-17 who may not have completed Year 10 and benefit from an individualised, supportive learning program. For students who prefer applied learning, we offer the VCE Vocational Major (VCE-VM), which combines classroom learning with practical experience, preparing students for apprenticeships, traineeships, further study at TAFE, or entry into the workforce.

Tell us about yourself and what’s your role at The Gordon?

I’m Gavin Wake, the Principal of The Gordon’s Senior College. I’ve been part of The Gordon for 17 years and have led the secondary program as Principal for the past five years. I’m passionate about creating learning environments where students feel valued and supported, and I love seeing them succeed in pathways that work best for them.

Tell us about Gordon’s different approach to learning

 We recognise that not all students thrive in a traditional school setting. Our approach is built on flexibility, support and real-world learning. Smaller class sizes mean students get more one-on-one support, and our experienced teachers focus on engaging learning experiences tailored to individual needs. Students are treated like young adults, fostering independence while providing the guidance they need to succeed.

How long has The Gordon supported secondary studies?

The Gordon has offered secondary education programs for over 30 years, with more than 5,000 students benefiting from our alternative approach. This year, 150 secondary students are enrolled in our programs.

Gavin Wake, Principal of The Gordon’s Senior College on the steps inside the modern Gordon facilities
Gavin Wake, Principal of The Gordon’s Senior College

Why should parents consider The Gordon for their child’s secondary school journey?

For many students, a mainstream school setting isn’t the best fit. The Gordon provides an alternative pathway where students are respected, supported, and encouraged to take control of their learning. Whether they’re aiming for university, TAFE or the workforce, we help students build confidence and skills that set them up for future success.

Describe the opportunities for students after studying VCE at The Gordon?

Completing VCE at The Gordon opens up a world of possibilities. Students can continue their education at TAFE with free courses, pursue Apprenticeships and Traineeships, or progress to university. With a strong focus on individual pathways, we help students explore their next steps, whether that’s further study, industry training, or directly entering the workforce.

Gabby Bakker a Gordon VCE student
Gabby Bakker - Gabby started at The Gordon in 2022 in the Mumgu-dhal program before going into VPC and then VCE. She is a current year 12 student and a Gordon Scholarship awards winner. Gabby hopes to enrol in University after Year 12 to study psychology.
Keyda Silver
Keyda Silver – Keyda returned to study as an adult with aspirations of a medical or law career. This is Keyda’s second year with us in Year 12 VCE; she is studying part time.

What’s your best tip to parents when considering the best place of education for their child?

Every student learns differently, and the key is to find an environment where they feel supported and engaged. Talk to your child about what works for them, visit different schools, and ask about support structures in place. Education isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the right choice is where they feel they can thrive.

Are there opportunities to visit The Gordon to check out the campuses?

Absolutely. We have two Info Nights for prospective families coming up in May. These are great opportunities to visit our facilities and experience all The Gordon has to offer.

Registrations open 1 April. Share your email address and we’ll send you a reminder when the Information Nights registrations for VCE open. 

6 May – Geelong City campus 
7 May – East Geelong campus

Register my interest

We are only collecting your details to advise you when Information Nights bookings open. Your information will not be retained for any other purpose. See our Privacy Statement.

Where can families get more information?

Learn More

If you have further questions, call our customer service team on 5225 0538.