Programs - VET/VCAL  

What Is VCAL? 

VCAL is applied learning which allows students the opportunity to experience the real world by doing three days of school learning, one day work experience followed by one day a week of tertiary education i.e., TAFE.  How has St John's utilized VCAL?  We were given the tremendous opportunity to renovate the old uniform shop into a working fully licensed functional Café appropriately named the Lantern Café in honour of Nano Nagle, the founder of the Presentation Sisters, whose symbol is the lantern that brings the light of Christ to the world.  The Lantern Café has helped all Senior VCAL students in achieving their learning outcomes whilst also creating a legacy that will be handed down to future VCAL students for them to take on and further develop hands-on learning. 

How I enjoyed VCAL – Georgia Maxwell

This year I started the official VCAL Program, and I do not regret choosing it.  When I started Year 11 at St John's Regional College, I intended to get straight into photography and complete a course that would benefit and build myself and to gain knowledge and skills in the fast track program.  Along the way I formed bonds with students who were interested in the course and has since had a drive to complete my Cert III. 

Joining VCAL required dedication and commitment, but also to be able to be independent and find what you are looking for.  Another essential to VCAL was to obtain a work-placement as to gaining experience in the work space and learn on how businesses may work or what your future career may look like.  It is never too late to become apart of your future.