A full circle moment for VCE Offshore student
From VCE student to Victorian Department of Education intern, Villanelle Zhang’s story demonstrates how our VCE Offshore Program broadens pathways for students after school.
Six years ago, Villanelle completed her VCE at Haileybury affiliated Ningbo Li Hui Li High School in Zhejiang Province, China. Today, she interns at the Victorian School Building Authority (part of the Department of Education) in the Partnerships and Grants branch.
We chatted to Villanelle about her full circle moment, the role the VCE Offshore Program played in her life, and how the program can benefit future students.
Why did you choose to study the VCE Offshore program?
It offered a structured and credible pathway into the Australian education system. Compared to other options at that time, VCE Offshore aligned clearly with Australian Universities and provided a smoother academic transition, particularly in terms of curriculum design.
Why did you choose to intern at the Department of Education?
I chose this field because of the integrated nature of public sector work. It involves collaboration across multiple teams, stakeholders and levels of government, which is complex and practical.
Moreover, the work has a clear community impact. Being involved in early childhood infrastructure projects allows me to see how decisions translate into tangible outcomes for schools, families and local communities, which I find meaningful and motivating.
What is the most valuable lesson you learned through your VCE experience?
To question, analyse and form independent insights. VCE is not just a strong academic pathway to Australian education system, but a training ground for intellectual growth.
What advice would you give students considering the VCE Offshore program?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are no stupid questions, especially in the first year. Feeling unsure or overwhelmed at the beginning is completely normal, particularly when you are still getting familiar with some new fields. Once you start engaging more actively and clarifying things as you go, your confidence grows quickly.
Learn more about the VCAA’s VCE Offshore Program.
If your school is interested in becoming a Victorian partner, contact the VCAA International team.