VET / VCAL

VCAL is a two year senior secondary course (Year 11 & 12) that is an applied learning program with the flexibility to tailor a course of study suited to individual needs.

To complete a VCAL Certificate, students complete 10 units made up of a combination of Literacy, Numeracy, Personal Development, Work Related Skills and a VET unit.

Students work collaboratively on group projects, enrol in an industry related subject (VET), develop skills for work readiness, and can engage with work placements in non-school settings to explore career pathways.

As a ‘rule-of-thumb’ what students get out of VCAL is proportional to the effort they put in.

Engaging trade orientated VCAL and FLO secondary students in community based work experience

During 2018, the Victorian government’s ‘Pick my Project’ community grants initiative saw the partnership between CSC and the Harcourt Victorian Miniature Railway secure $198,856.

CSC students are helping to build a 1:3 scale replica of the iconic Maryborough Railway Station. They are helping to design and install electrical, plumbing, concreting, bricklaying, carpentry and painting as part of their Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL), or participation in Flexible Learning Options (FLO) or the Indigenous Nalderun program. The students are supervised by qualified trades people, CSC staff and other community mentors.

The miniature railway project supports local businesses and will result in a fantastic new tourist attraction for Mount Alexander Shire. In addition to developing new trades skills, students are learning the importance of respect, establishing their place in the workforce and in the wider community. For more information see the Pick My Project and the Harcourt Miniature Railway websites.