Frequently asked questions?

What is the Sunbury Macedon Ranges VET Cluster (SMRVC)?

The SMRVC is a collaborative partnership between local secondary schools, LLEN’s, TAFEs, RTOs and industry partners. The Cluster works to provide VET (Vocational Education and Training) opportunities to secondary school students across the region, supporting career pathways and skill development.

What is VET Delivered to Secondary Students (VDSS)?

VDSS, is the formal name for VET delivered to secondary school students, enabling secondary school students to undertake nationally recognised VET qualifications while completing their VCE, VCE Vocational Major studies, or VPC.

Who can access VET courses through the SMRVC?

Students from all member schools within the Cluster: including government, Catholic, and independent schools can access Cluster-delivered VET programs, (subject to course availability, school processes, and eligibility requirements).

Students from outside of the Cluster are also welcome to apply.

What is an RTO?

An RTO is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). RTOs meet the legislative requirements and registration processes which allow them to deliver nationally recognised vocational education and training courses. They include TAFE institutes, private training providers, enterprises and schools. Only an RTO can issue a VET qualification.

How do I enrol in a VET course through the SMRVC?

Students must express interest through their school’s VET Coordinator who can provide them with the correct documentation.

Click here to find your school’s VET Coordinator.

Are there any entry requirements for VET courses?

Some courses have prerequisites or recommended skills (such as literacy, numeracy, or workplace readiness). These will be discussed with the student and VET Coordinator during the enrolment process.

When do enrolments open?

Enrolments for the following school year typically open during Term 3, with information provided through your school’s Careers team and senior school staff.

What types of VET courses are offered?

The Cluster and schools within the Cluster offer a wide range of VET courses, known as VCE VET programs covering industries such as Health, Hospitality, Construction, Engineering, Business, Community Services. These programs are made up of VET qualifications approved by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority to contribute toward the VCE, including the VCE VM, or the VPC.

The VCE VET programs have been grouped into 14 industry areas, including 6 priority industry areas. For further information refer to Priority VCE VET programs

Students are encouraged to speak to their VET Coordinator to ensure that they are made aware of all VET courses offered by their school. Not all VET courses run within schools are offered within the Sunbury Macedon Ranges VET Cluster of schools. The reasons for this can be complex including teacher resources and timetabling restrictions within some schools.

What is Structured Workplace Learning?

Students undertake work placement with an employer that enables the student to demonstrate their acquired skills and knowledge in an industry setting. During the Structured Workplace Learning, a student will have specific tasks to undertake in order to demonstrate competence. Students will be regularly monitored and may be assessed on the job. Structured Workplace Learning is coordinated between the student and their Home school VET Coordinator.

Can I complete a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT) through the SMRVC?

Technically no, however if a student is interested in learning more about SBATs and SBAT opportunities, please contact the careers team at your school, and they will be able to assist you, or refer you to the HeadStart Coordinator (for Government Schools).

What is a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT)?

SBATs enable students to commence an apprenticeship or traineeship while still at school, integrating part-time employment and training with their senior secondary studies. This approach allows students to work towards a qualification while completing their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), VCE Vocational Major, or Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC).

If students are interested in an apprenticeship or traineeship, they should seek guidance from their Home school.

  • Independent and Catholic School Students:
    Students attending Independent or Catholic schools should consult their school’s Careers Practitioner for guidance on pursuing an apprenticeship or traineeship.
  • Government School Students:
    Students in government schools should first speak with their school’s Careers Practitioner. If an SBAT is deemed suitable, the Careers Practitioner will refer the student to the school’s Head Start Coordinator for further assistance. The Head Start program supports students in years 10–12 to undertake SBATs, providing them with the skills and experience that employers value. Students receive paid on-the-job training that contributes to their VCE, VCE Vocational Major, or VPC, leading to a qualification. The program offers tailored support, including career planning advice, assistance in finding suitable employers, and ongoing coordination between the student, school, and employer.

For more information on how Head Start works, visit Head Start Apprenticeships and Traineeships page.

Do VET courses count towards my VCE or VCE Vocational Major?

Many VET courses contribute credit towards your secondary schooling certificate, and some also provide scored assessments that contribute to your ATAR. Fully understanding this process can be confusing, and it therefore best to refer to your VET Coordinator or careers team for guidance for specific course information.

Are there fees for participating in VET courses?

Some courses may attract fees for materials, equipment, or uniform costs. Schools provide detailed information about fees during the enrolment process.

Who organises transport to VET classes?

Students and families are generally responsible for transport arrangements, however depending on individual circumstances and funding availability, transport access or funding maybe available. Refer to your schools VET Coordinator regarding VET transport funding availability.

How will a VET course help my future career?

VET courses provide real-world skills, hands-on experience, and nationally recognised qualifications that can lead directly to employment, apprenticeships, or further study. Refer to the VCAA VCE VET resources for further information on how a VET course within your chosen senior school pathway can help your future career.

Can community or industry partners get involved with the SMRVC?

Yes. The Cluster actively works with schools and welcomes partnerships with local businesses, community and industry to support structured workplace learning, industry tours, guest speakers, and apprenticeship opportunities. These partnerships are often coordinated via the Clusters Local Learning Employment Networks, (LLENs).

For the Sunbury Macedon Ranges VET Cluster, these LLENs include:

Who do I contact for more information?

In the first instance students and families are encouraged to speak with your school’s VET Coordinator or Careers Practitioner.  You can also contact the SMRVC Coordinator via the website Contact Us form.

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