What do I study?
With the help of your teacher or careers counsellor, you can develop a VCAL program that suits your particular learning needs and interests. You have the choice of selecting units and modules from each of the following four VCAL strands.
Strand 1 – Literacy and Numeracy Skills
Your VCAL program must include literacy and numeracy subjects. These can be selected from VCAL Literacy Skills and VCAL Numeracy Skills units, VCE English and Mathematics or other further education studies such as the Certificate in General Education for Adults.
Strand 2 – Industry Specific Skills
Your VCAL Intermediate or Senior program must include industry specific units from VET certificates. However, you are not required to focus on, or complete, any single VET certificate. For example, you can choose to undertake various modules or units of competence from a range of VET certificates to meet the VCAL requirements, and gain experience in a range of vocational areas. The range of VET options is extensive and includes automotive, engineering, building and construction, hospitality, retail, multimedia, information technology, agriculture, horticulture, warehousing and hair and beauty.
Strand 3 – Work Related Skills
In order to develop employability skills, VCAL gives you the choice of undertaking a structured workplace learning placement or a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship and/or part-time work. You can also study units and modules that will help prepare you for work, for example occupational health and safety or job interview skills. You will also be required to complete training in an accredited Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) module/unit before commencing a structured workplace learning placement.
Strand 4 – Personal Development Skills
As part of your VCAL program you will participate in community-based projects and/or structured activities that will help develop your teamwork skills, self-confidence and other skills important for life and work.