School leavers encouraged to explore pathways to rewarding careers
As Year 12 students prepare to finish school, more are discovering vocational education as a pathway to rewarding careers.
As Year 12 students prepare to finish school, more are discovering vocational education as a pathway to rewarding careers.
Enrolments in VCE-VM (Victorian Certificate of Education – Vocational Major) and unscored VCE are on the rise, reflecting growing interest in alternative pathways.
Data from the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority indicates the number of students completing unscored VCE has risen from 8.3 per cent to 11.7 per cent from 2020 to 2024, while the number of VCE-VM students has risen by 28 per cent from 2023 to 2024.
Additionally, the data shows that Year 12 completion rates, which were at just 91.7 per cent in 2021, increased to 97.5 per cent in 2024.
Hannah D’Andrea is one example of a student who chose to pursue vocational education as a pathway which led her to studying and working in an in-demand field.
Hannah opted to complete what was formerly VCAL, which has since been replaced by VCE-VM.
The VCE-VM is an alternative to the traditional VCE pathway, which some students opt to complete unscored.
After initially starting her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) as a VDSS student while finishing Year 11 and 12, Hannah is now completing her Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50121), while working full time at Kialla Children’s Centre.
She said gaining real-life experience while studying was the right pathway for her.
"Don’t be afraid to take your education further, it can lead to so many possibilities."
“It is important to take opportunities to gain real life experience in the workforce, which can help you develop so many skills and support you in your career," she said.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) provides students with practical skills, hands-on experience, and pathways directly into employment or further study.
By combining classroom learning with real-world work opportunities, VET empowers students to gain confidence, build industry-ready skills, and explore careers in high-demand sectors - showing that there are multiple pathways to success beyond the traditional ATAR-focused route.
With GOTAFE by your side, YOU’VE GOT THIS - enrolments for Semester 1, 2026 are now open.
Community members interested in exploring courses, speaking with a careers advisor or learning more about their options can do so via calling 1300 468 233 or visiting www.gotafe.vic.edu.au
