Educational Pathways
VET
HSC
The New South Wales Higher School Certificate (HSC) is gained by completion of a set number of units of study, which may be completed through subjects offered by your school
You may receive an ATAR score
The ATAR gives you a relative position and ranks your performance in relation to other students who completed year 12 the same year
University courses often have a ATAR score that is used as a cut-off to get into that course
The ATAR score can be used as a selection tool for entry into courses but it is sometimes also used in conjunction with other selection criteria that may include: prerequisite subjects, interview, folio presentation, etc.
Course for students who do not gain an ATAR score
These vocational educational and training (VET) courses give students practical, work-related experience, as well as literacy and numeracy skills.
Students who complete a VET course are likely to be interested in going on to a TAFE course, apprenticeship, traineeship or job.
Apprenticeships / traineeships / cadestships
training and education in a trade
Cover a wide range of careers, including hairdressing, carpentry, sales and information technology. An apprenticeship allows you to work while studying the area of interest to you.
If you take on an apprenticeship you will learn about your job as you work with your employer. On particular days, and/or some evenings, you will be required to attend classes at a TAFE college.
Students in Years 9 and 10 may access VET courses through:
- Stage 5 VET Board Endorsed courses
- Early commencement of Stage 6 VET courses.
VET graduates achieve a higher employment rate than bachelor degree graduates.
VET sector currently provides training courses for nine out of 10 occupations predicted to have the highest growth of new jobs over the next few years.
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Benefits of VET programs
- They assist students to become ‘job ready’ thereby increasing their employment prospects.
- They form part of recognised pathways to further education and training.
- Upon successful completion, students receive a nationally accredited qualification.
Generally completed during Years 11 & 12 however some schools allow students to start a VET program in Year 10.
Training is usually held at a TAFE or a smaller training venue. In some cases it may be held at a school or a workplace for some of the time.