What is VET and VDSS?
Vocational Education and Training (VET) allows students to gain nationally recognised qualifications while still at school. VET gives students practical, hands-on experience in industries such as health, construction, hospitality, automotive, and more.
Students can complete a VET course as part of their VCE, VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM), or Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC). VET combines classroom learning with real-world experience through Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) or a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT)—so students can even start working in their chosen industry while still at school.
VET Delivered to School Students (VDSS) is the formal name for VET programs undertaken by secondary students. These courses are typically completed over one or two years and are aligned with the needs of local industries and future job growth.
Why choose a VET course?
By enrolling in a VET course, students can:
- Earn a nationally recognised qualification
- Gain credit towards their VCE, VCE VM or VPC
- Learn technical and job-ready skills
- Explore careers through hands-on training
- Improve their employability and confidence
- Access workplace learning or paid training opportunities
- Create a direct pathway to TAFE, university, apprenticeships or employment
The Sunbury Macedon Ranges VET Cluster (SMRVC) offers a range of VDSS programs across local schools, tailored to meet student interests and the skills needs of Victoria’s growing industries.
If students are unable to locate their preferred VET course within the Sunbury Macedon Ranges Cluster schools, there may be an opportunity to enrol at another location. Students are encouraged to speak with their school’s VET Coordinator and careers team.