The Recognition of Learning Statement

The Recognition of Learning Statement is a formal statement that acknowledges students who have meaningfully engaged in learning throughout their education, including during their senior secondary years, but for whom completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), including the VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM), or the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) is not achievable due to individual circumstances.

Completion of formal schooling is an important milestone. The Recognition of Learning Statement provides a inclusive form of recognition for students whose learning is not reflected through existing certificate‑based senior secondary qualifications. It affirms dignity, perseverance and inclusion, and recognises that meaningful engagement in learning is a significant achievement.

The purpose of the Recognition of Learning Statement is to:

  • formally acknowledge students’ commitment to learning to the best of their ability
  • recognise diverse learning pathways and experiences
  • provide an equitable and inclusive form of recognition at the completion of schooling
  • celebrate effort, engagement and persistence where these are not otherwise formally recognised.

What is the Recognition of Learning Statement?

The Recognition of Learning Statement is:

  • a principal attested statement of acknowledgement provided at the conclusion of a student’s schooling
  • a way for schools to formally recognise meaningful engagement in learning, rather than formal academic attainment
  • available to eligible students from all Victorian schools

The Recognition of Learning Statement is not:

  • a qualification or certificate
  • a registered or accredited course
  • a record of achievement against curriculum or assessment standards
  • a pathway or alternative to the VCE, VCE VM or VPC
  • a participation award.

Further detail on how the Recognition of Learning Statement is defined and applied is provided in the Statement of Intent (See under Further information).

Who is eligible for the Recognition of Learning Statement?

Eligibility for a Recognition of Learning Statement is determined at the school level, using the professional judgement of the principal (or equivalent).

A student may be eligible where, in the judgement of the principal, the student has:

  • meaningfully engaged in learning throughout their educational journey, including during their senior secondary years, to the best of their ability; and
  • been unable to participate in or complete the VCE (including VCE VM) or the VPC due to individual circumstances.

In addition, the student must:

  • be exiting schooling at the conclusion of the school year; and
  • be at least 18 years old, or turn 18 before 30 April of the following year.

Guidance on applying these criteria is provided in the Guidance for Principals (See under Further information).

What does ‘meaningful engagement in learning’ mean?

‘Meaningful engagement’ refers to a student’s sustained commitment to learning that is appropriate to their individual circumstances, abilities and supports.

It is not defined by:

  • academic outcomes or grades
  • completion of accredited units or certificates
  • fixed hours of attendance
  • conformity to a single mode of schooling

Further explanation and examples are provided in the Guidance for Principals (See under Further information).

How is the Recognition of Learning Statement issued?

The VCAA provides a personalised template to registered schools. Schools use this template to prepare Recognition of Learning Statements for eligible students.

Key features include:

  • the Statement is granted on principal (or equivalent) attestation
  • nominations may be informed by delegated staff, such as assistant principals or senior secondary leaders
  • schools use existing records and professional judgement; no additional assessment is required.

Relationship to the Student Achievement Profile summary

The Recognition of Learning Statement is designed to complement, not replace, the Student Achievement Profile (SAP) summary.

  • The SAP summarises demonstrated achievement against formal requirements within the VCE or VPC.
  • The Recognition of Learning Statement acknowledges meaningful engagement in learning where certificate based outcomes do not accurately reflect a student’s learning journey.

A student may receive both, one, or neither, depending on their circumstances and the school’s professional judgement.

See SAP summary page for more information.

Registration for schools

Schools must register to receive a Recognition of Learning template. Applications must be made in alignment with the eligibility criteria.

Registrations open at the end of Term 3 and close during Term 4. Registered schools will receive a digital template in mid Term 4.

A link to register will be available on this page.

Further information