Victorian senior secondary education has changed
There’s a new way to get the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE).
The VCE now includes the Vocational Major (VCE VM). This is a two-year program that’s part of the VCE.
The Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) is also now available. This is for those who need more flexibility in their learning.
These new options replace the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL). VCE VM and VPC both offer an improved curriculum to prepare students for:
- further study or training
- an apprenticeship
- getting started in the workforce.
Why VCAL was replaced
These changes are a result of the Review into vocational and applied learning pathways in senior secondary schooling(opens in a new window) (the Firth Review). The review found improved vocational and applied learning options were needed in schools.
Students now have greater access to relevant vocational education and applied learning opportunities. Whatever their interests and passions, students can pursue it under the new VCE.
History of senior secondary school qualifications
The introduction of the VCE Vocational Major is the most significant change to the VCE since it was introduced in 1987. This timeline explains how senior secondary education in Victoria has changed over time.
1970
Higher School Certificate (HSC) introduced
1975
Tertiary Orientation Program (TOP) introduced
1984
School Tertiary Certificate (STC) and Technical Year 12 (T12) introduced
1987
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) introduced and incorporates HSC, STC, TOP and T12
1991
VCE fully implemented and replaces HSC
1995
Vocational educational training (VET) included as an option within the VCE
1999
Scored assessment for VCE VET introduced
2003
Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) introduced
2019
Review into vocational and applied learning pathways in senior secondary schooling commissioned
2020
Review published with 38 recommendations to transform delivery of senior secondary education
2023
- Vocational Major (VCE VM) introduced into VCE
- Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) introduced
- VCAL replaced by VCE VM and VPC
2025
All VCE students eligible to choose Work Related Skills and Personal Development Skills units
Updated