Why select VET?

One third of Year 11 and 12 students in NSW complete a vocational education and training (VET) course as part of their Higher School Certificate (HSC).

VET courses are a strong catalyst for student retention and engagement in learning and help students prepare for further education, training, employment and lifelong learning.

For Years 9–12 school students in NSW, VET is ‘dual accredited’. Students receive recognition towards their Record of School Achievement or HSC, as well as towards a nationally recognised VET qualification (Certificate or Statement of Attainment).

Students who complete BOSTES’ VET courses leave school with work-related experience and skills that support a successful transition to further study and work.

Policy issues

VET, including VET in Schools (VETiS), is currently in the spotlight at both national and state levels.

Australian governments have made a new commitment to ensure industry has the skilled workforce and operating environment it needs to boost the nation’s productivity and increase international competitiveness. A VET Reform Taskforce has been established.

The Commonwealth Government is currently consulting with stakeholders to discuss issues and help formulate strategies to strengthen VETiS and its recognition as a valid pathway for all secondary school students.

VET statistics

In NSW, around 80% of students undertaking HSC VET are enrolled in courses from the 13 Board-Developed Industry Curriculum Frameworks available. Frameworks include an HSC examination which provides the opportunity for students to have this study contribute to the calculation of their Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). Industry areas covered by Frameworks include Hospitality, Electrotechnology, Financial Services and Primary Industries.

In addition to the Frameworks, there is a choice of approximately 130 Stage 6 Board Endorsed courses, including Animal Studies, Assistant Dance Teaching, Early Childhood Education and Care, Plumbing, Sports Coaching and Visual Arts, Craft and Design.

Students in Years 9 and 10 can undertake one of 12 Stage 5 100-hour elective VET courses, including Active Volunteering, Information and Digital Literacy and Tourism (Australian Indigenous Culture).

For more information, contact:
VET team
vet@bos.nsw.edu.au
(02) 9367 8310