Victorian senior secondary education is changing
From 2023, more students will study the VCE. That’s because the VCE will include the Vocational Major, a 2-year program that sits within the VCE.
There will also be the Victorian Pathways Certificate for those who need flexibility in their learning.
Current system 2022
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)
Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) - final year of VCAL
New system 2023
VCE, includes Vocational Major
Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC)
The VCE Vocational Major
The VCE Vocational Major is a 2-year applied learning program within the VCE. You will develop academic and work-related skills, knowledge and confidence. It will prepare you for work and further education and training.
When you graduate from secondary school, you'll graduate with the Victorian Certificate of Education, with the additional words 'Vocational Major'.
Read more about the VCE Vocational major
The Victorian Pathways Certificate
The Victorian Pathways Certificate is a flexible program. It is designed for a small number of students in years 11 and 12 who for various reasons, are not able or ready to undertake the VCE or the VCE Vocational Major.
It will prepare you for work and further education and training, including the VCE.
Your school can help you decide if the Victorian Pathways Certificate is right for you.
Read more about the Victorian Pathways Certificate.
Why VCAL is being replaced
These changes are a result of the Review into Vocational and Applied Learning Pathways in Senior Secondary Schooling (the Firth review). The review found we needed to improve vocational learning in schools.
Now you will have greater access to high-quality, relevant vocational education and applied learning opportunities. You'll be able to use your many talents in new ways under the new VCE.
How students might transition to the new certificates
Your school course counselling sessions will inform you about the pathway .
Schools currently offering VCAL will switch to the VCE Vocational Major from 2023.
Some schools that do not offer VCAL will expand their options to include the VCE Vocational Major.
Talk to your school to check what they offer.
Read more about this and other senior secondary vocational learning reforms and .
Reviewed 21 July 2022