Vocational Education and Training (VET) 

VET: In their own words

Continuing with our VET feature, in this fortnight's edition of The Fountain, we catch up with some of our former VET students to discover how their studies have helped shape their future career pathways. 

Ava – Class of 2024

"I really enjoyed the Sport Coaching class last year. It helped me in many ways – learning how to plan and run a session, teach it to a class, and collaborate with other students. I also gained valuable knowledge about work health and safety considerations when delivering a session.

As part of the course, I coached a Year 7 football team and completed work experience at SVC, which gave me a deeper understanding of the role of a PE teacher. It helped me appreciate the dedication and effort that goes into coaching and teaching.

This experience also boosted my confidence in my current role at SMC. I earned my First Aid certification, which is a great skill to have. We also had the chance to try a wide range of sports, including visiting the golf range in Cambridge and playing mini golf.”

Sophie – Class of 2021

“Throughout my time at St Mary’s College, I undertook VET courses in Years 10, 11 and 12. These courses gave me the experience and knowledge that led me to where I am today – an apprentice baker in my fourth year at Brighton’s Best Bakehouse.

The VET program prepared me for the workforce and helped me discover my passion for baking. In Year 12, I completed a school-based traineeship with Brighton’s Best Bakehouse, which confirmed that I was on the right path.

Since then, I’ve competed in several competitions and events, including the 2023 National Excellence in Baking held in Sydney. The VET program truly set me up for success.”

Meet Sophie, pictured, baking queen and now a finalist at the BAA Excellence in Baking Nationals this July. Photo credit: Brighton's Best Bakehouse. 

Georgia – Class of 2024

"Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to work as a wildlife keeper at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, thanks to the St Mary’s VET team.

Through the Certificate II in Animal Care, I learned how to care for Tasmania’s native wildlife, understand their main threats and perform basic animal first aid and handling. The course included two days off-campus each week – one in the classroom and one as a student keeper.

I had the chance to handle and conduct health checks on animals such as birds, wombats, quolls, echidnas, kangaroos, possums and Tasmanian devils. This experience led me to become a wildlife rescuer and join the Wildlife Network of Tasmania’s training courses.

I’ve even been offered interviews at various animal hospitals, thanks to the recognition of Bonorong’s program. I’m so grateful to St Mary’s for making this possible – it’s given me a clear path toward becoming a qualified keeper and exploring veterinary care.”

Abby – Class of 2022

"I began my VET journey at St Mary’s in Year 10 with the Certificate II in Community Services, which introduced me to working with children in educational settings. This course helped me choose my future career path and understand the expectations of being an educator.

In Year 12, I completed the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and secured a school-based traineeship with Goodstart Early Learning. This allowed me to complete my placement while finishing school.

Shortly after graduating, I began working as a fully qualified educator at Howrah Sunrise Early Learning. Two years later, I’m in a leadership role and about to complete my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. I’ll soon begin my Bachelor of Early Childhood Education to become an early years teacher.

The VET opportunities at St Mary’s helped me fast-track my career and plan for a bright future.”