7. Vocational Major (VM)
VM at St Mary's College
The Vocational Major is a new accredited senior secondary school qualification undertaken in Years 11 and 12. At St Mary’s College within the VM we offer a personal approach to learning which is based around a small team of experienced staff. We have a greater understanding of the needs of applied learners and small class sizes mean that individual needs are easily catered for. VM provides a practical work-related experience based on hands-on learning. VM prepares students for employment and/or further education and training. Vocational Major students obtain a VCE certificate. In order to do so students will need to complete 16 units of study. Students can design their course to meet their needs by choosing units from VCE studies, VET courses and VCE VM studies. Applied learning students at St Mary’s College enjoy the ways in which they can direct their own educational journey. Students develop strong relationships with their teachers as well as their peers. Our applied learners obtain skills and experience which sets them up for a life of success. Enabling students to have a personal focus means they become far more engaged with their education and can see real world outcomes such as employment or further education beyond their time in a classroom.
Students would normally access the VM program from Year 11, but you may apply to enter in Year 12 depending on available places. Please note that VM places are strictly limited and are subject to an application process.
Vocational Major Program
To be eligible to receive the VCE in Vocational Major, students must satisfactorily complete a minimum of 16 units, including:
- 3 Literacy or VCE English units (including a Unit 3–4 sequence)
- 2 Numeracy or VCE Mathematics units
- 2 Work Related Skills units
- 2 Personal Development Skills units, and
- 2 VET credits at Certificate II level or above (180 nominal hours)
- 2 Religion and Society units
Students must complete a minimum of three other Unit 3–4 sequences as part of their program. Units 3 and 4 of VM studies may be undertaken together over the duration of the academic year to enable these to be integrated.
VM can be tailored to the needs and interests of the student, to keep them engaged while developing their skills and knowledge. Students can also include other VCE studies and VET, and can receive structured workplace learning recognition.
Most students will undertake between 16-20 units over the two years.
VM Structure at St Mary’s College for 2023
- 3 or 4 days a week completing VM courses
- One day per week off campus at a VET course
