Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)
The VCE is a senior secondary certificate of education.
It involves completing 22 units over two years.
The Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority (VCAA) is responsible for the administration of both the VCE and the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL).
The VCE includes VCE studies and programs from Vocational Education and Training (VET)
In Year 11 students undertake 12 units (6 subjects) of Units 1 and 2
In Year 12 students undertake 10 units (5 subjects) of Units 3 and 4
The certificate is awarded to students who satisfactorily complete at least 16 units including at least 3 of an approved English and at least 3 Unit 3 & 4 sequences of subjects other than English.
Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL)
VCAL is an alternative Years 11 and 12 qualification program based on adult learning and youth development principles. It is suitable for students seeking a pathway to further VET studies and/or employment.
The content, negotiated to suit students’ interests and learning needs involves hands-on learning and encourages personal development.
Students undertake a work placement and participate in a VET program.
An Intermediate VCAL certificate can be gained at the end of the first year and a Senior VCAL certificate at the end of the second year.
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
VET program participation allows students to complete the VCE or VCAL certificate and also gain a nationally recognised qualification in an industry area. Students may then choose to enter the workforce or continue study at TAFE or university.
Subject offerings:
- Sport and Recreation – Fitness or Football
- Interactive Digital Media (Multi-Media)
- VET Music Industry (Technical Production)
Essendon Keilor College also partners with Registered Training Organisations to provide access to VET courses outside the school. This may incur some costs and the program must be approved by the principal.
These courses have included: Animal Studies, Allied Health, Business Administration, Childcare, Community Services and Dance.
Click here for the 2023 Course Handbook
Higher Education Studies
High achieving Year 12 students can get a taste of university and extend their learning in an area of interest by taking a first year university subject. The outcome is included in a student’s ATAR as a 5th or 6th subject.
Students who completed a corresponding 3/4 subject in Year 11 with an excellent result are eligible for the Extension Study program. The College will make the final decision regarding participation on a case by case basis.
