Leigh's Success Story

When Leigh finished Year 10 she wanted to leave school and start working with the animals she loves – horses. But her parents wanted her to finish Year 12.

At a parent–teacher evening VCAL was suggested as the perfect alternative. Leigh took on Intermediate VCAL in 2008 and hasn’t looked back.

‘I’d definitely recommend it,’ she says. ‘You don’t just sit in a classroom for five days a week. You do work placements and go on excursions. You’re given more responsibility because you help plan and organise events. You get to know everyone in your class really well because you’re often with the same people and you work together on projects.’

VCAL also allowed Leigh to start working with horses and to gain relevant qualifications in the process. As part of her VCAL program, Leigh began a School Based Apprenticeship at Cadet Lodge Racing Stables and undertook VET training, completing Certificate II in Racing (Stablehand).

Leigh also gained other valuable skills and experience through her involvement in class projects and activities. She took part in a two-week environmental awareness camp, completed a defensive driving course and received her Responsible Serving of Alcohol Certificate.

This year Leigh is doing Senior VCAL and plans to complete her School Based Apprenticeship as well as Certificate III in Racing (Trackrider) and Certificate III in Racing (Advanced Stablehand).

‘Long term I want to be in the mounted police, but for now my goal is to become a full-time track rider.’