Victorians asked to have their say on education reform influencing the pipeline of ECEC educators

Victorians are being asked to have their say on proposed reforms to school-based vocational education and senior secondary education. Early childhood education and care (ECEC) leaders and professionals may wish to take part, given the role that school-based traineeships and vocational education plays in providing a pipeline of educators to the sector.

 

The reforms will see the integration of the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) into the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). This will give Victorian students high-quality, practical skills that deliver a pathway to Victoria’s most in-demand jobs.

 

A new foundation certificate will be established from 2023 to support students in all settings to successfully transition to entry level VET or employment after finishing school, particularly students with a disability and additional needs.

 

Victorians can have their say on the new certificate designs, on what units students are going to do as part of their certificate and on what the certificates will be called.

 

The Victorian Government is keen for community feedback on how to best support all students to complete a two-year certificate, the impact of mandating a minimum number of units, and ensuring forms of assessment will best support student learning.

 

“We want an education system that ensures our kids succeed. With a single VCE certificate that incorporates vocational and applied learning, we can ensure all kids gain the skills needed for the job they want,” Minister for Education James Merlino said, inviting students, parents, caregivers, schools, TAFEs, universities as well as other service providers, peak bodies, industry, employers and the wider community to share their thoughts through the Engage Victoria website.

 

The move to the new certificates follows a review by former Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority CEO John Firth. The certificates will be complemented by broader reforms to the senior secondary system, which will improve the quality of, and access to, vocational and applied learning pathways for all students. The reforms are supported by a $38 million investment announced in the Victorian Budget 2020/21. 

 

To participate and give feedback on Senior Secondary Pathways Reform, visit the website, here.