VCE Vocational Major
Authentic Learning in Action
Wantirna College’s Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students recently had the opportunity to take their learning beyond the classroom through an engaging community presentation from Nick Tomazic from Victoria Police. He was also accompanied by Bronwyn Pratt Head Start Assistant Director | Eastern Metro Melbourne Head Start Hub and Michael Harvey.
The session provided students with practical, real-world knowledge as they prepare to transition from secondary school into employment, further training and greater independence as young adults.
Throughout the presentation, students explored a range of highly relevant topics, including Nick’s own pathway into Victoria Police, employment expectations, School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs), apprenticeships, road safety for learner and probationary drivers, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), workplace bullying and banter, and the importance of safely securing tools and equipment.
A particularly valuable aspect of the session was hearing directly from someone working within the community. Students were able to connect concepts discussed in the classroom with situations they may soon encounter themselves - whether that is beginning an apprenticeship, entering their first workplace, driving independently or considering future career pathways.
The session also encouraged students to think about the qualities employers value in young people, including making a positive first impression, demonstrating the right attitude and behaviours, understanding workplace responsibilities and making safe and responsible decisions.
Rather than simply listening to a presentation, students were active participants in their learning. They took structured notes, identified key information and advice, developed questions for the guest speaker and reflected on how the information could apply to their own lives and future pathways.
This is an important part of the VCE Vocational Major at Wantirna College. Authentic learning experiences allow students to see the connection between what they learn at school and the world they are preparing to enter. They provide opportunities for students to develop their communication, listening, critical thinking and decision-making skills while building greater awareness of employment, training and career possibilities.
For our Year 12 students in particular, these experiences are incredibly valuable. As they approach the end of their secondary schooling, conversations with employers, industry professionals and community organisations can help students make more informed decisions about what comes next.
Whether their pathway involves an apprenticeship, traineeship, further education, employment or a career such as policing, exposing students to different industries and personal career journeys helps broaden their understanding of the opportunities available to them.
Wantirna College would like to sincerely thank Nick and Victoria Police for giving their time to support our students and share practical knowledge, experiences and advice.
We are proud to continue creating opportunities that connect our VCE VM students with the wider community and provide meaningful, authentic learning experiences that prepare them not only for life after Year 12, but for the responsibilities and opportunities that come with becoming independent young adults.
Year 12 VCE VM Team