The new look VCE gives students fresh choices and a flexible career!

VCE at The Gordon offers a fresh start to build new connections in an adult learning environment, and from next year, it will offer teens a renewed outlook on their future with the introduction of an expanded VCE program. 

Gavin Wake, senior college principal at The Gordon said, “From 2023, the traditional VCE program will continue to offer senior secondary students the option of completing their VCE – giving them a scored ATAR to continue onto further study or they can choose to take up the new VCE Vocational Major, which offers pathways into apprenticeships, traineeships, further education or employment – perfect for students who enjoy hands-on learning.”

The new VCE Vocational Major is a two-year vocational and applied learning program, replacing the Senior and Intermediate VCAL studies. It is structured to suit those looking for a hands-on career in a trade such as cookery, building or hairdressing, and develops students personal and practical life skills. For Lily McKane it’s a chance to get a jump start on her career while finishing her VCE studies.

“I know I am a hands-on learner and I am enjoying carpentry as part of my VET studies here at The Gordon. I have a great group of friends and I feel it’s the perfect place to complete my Year 11 and 12 as both the students and teachers really do care about each other,” said Lily.

“I can study a Certificate II in Building and Construction and get the skills I need to enter the building industry. I am intending to complete my Year 12, have a gap year, and then return to take up an apprenticeship,” continued Lily.

The Gordon has some of the best trade training facilities in Victoria. It is the perfect environment for students wanting to pursue a trade career. With state-of-the-art facilities in Geelong, the Vocational Major delivered at The Gordon’s East Campus gives students every opportunity to succeed in their trade career.

“Completing the Vocational Major gives students time to develop their communication and team building skills in a supported learning environment, providing them with the soft skills that are so important in their new careers, while the 2023 VCE model allows students like Elise Peric to pursue the VCE program as a Year 11 or 12 student,” said Gavin Wake.

“I chose The Gordon as I had heard great things about the VCE program. At a normal secondary school, I felt there was a power imbalance between teachers and students. Here, at The Gordon, I felt more like an equal with my teachers and this really had a positive impact on my studies. I was never stressed or anxious and was made to feel comfortable and welcome,” said Elise.

“The teachers were always there for me and helped me with decisions about my career path. I knew what I wanted to do and they just helped me get there,” Elise continued.

As part of her VCE program, Elise undertook Certificate III in Laboratory Technology as her VET subject. Elise’s Lab Technology teacher, Sarah Daniele said, “Elise was a great student. We were always more than happy to be a sounding board for options for her further study. This course gave her fabulous skills and was a great addition to her successful application into her pathology course this year.  

“Having VET as an option in VCE and VCE Vocational Major is a great way to learn for the hands-on learner. It is so wonderful to see Gordon VCE students continuing their studies here. They know they have they have a great support network around them,” said Sarah.  

To find out more about VCE options at The Gordon, visit thegordon.edu.au or attend an Information Session from 5 pm on Tuesday 17 January at the Geelong City Campus or Wednesday 18 January at the East Campus.