Vocational Education Training

What is Vocational Education & Training (VET)? 

Vocational Education and Training (VET) is a practical learning pathway designed to give students real-world skills and nationally recognised qualifications while still at school. VET courses focus on hands-on experience and industry-relevant knowledge, helping students prepare for future careers across a wide range of industries. 

Students can begin their VET journey in Year 11 or 12 (Year 10 in some instances), while continuing to work towards completing their South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE). Many VET qualifications contribute directly to a student’s SACE and, in some cases, can count towards an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). 

Why choose VET? 

• Gain Industry-Recognised Qualifications 
  Students earn a Certificate II or III, which is recognised across Australia and can lead directly to employment or further study 

• Build Job-Ready Skills 
  VET courses are developed with industry partners, ensuring students learn relevant, up-to-date skills that employers are looking for 

• Explore Career Options Early 
  Whether a student is interested in trades, health, technology, animal care, or creative industries, VET offers a head start in their chosen field 

• Earn SACE Credits 
  Certificate II qualifications contribute Stage 1 (Year 11) credits, while Certificate III courses contribute Stage 2 (Year 12) credits. In most instances, a Certificate III can be used towards a student’s ATAR 

How does VET work in with school? 

VET is typically delivered one day a week over a 6 – 18 month duration (course dependant). Students continue their regular school studies on the other 4 days and receive support to balance their workload through a reduced subject load, and additional supervised study sessions to keep up with school and VET learning and assessments. 

Adelaide Hills Student Pathways Alliance (AHSP) 

Heathfield High School is part of the Adelaide Hills Student Pathways Alliance (AHSP) which offers students a wide range of VET courses to students in the local Adelaide Hills areas. Local government, independent and Catholic high schools each host various VET courses so that local students can access them easier.  

Course Options 

Within the Adelaide Hills Student Pathways alliance (AHSP), students can access the following courses: 

Certificate II: 

• Electrotechnology 

• Plumbing 

• Engineering Pathways 

• Food Processing (Baking) 

• Automotive 

• Commercial Cookery 

• Construction Pathways 

Certificate III: 

• Screen & Media (3D Animation & 3D Modelling) 

• Fitness Instructor 

• Agriculture 

• Animal Care & Husbandry 

• Information Technology 

• Allied Health Assistance 

• Early Childhood Education & Care 

• Christian Ministry & Theology (Veta Morphus) 

For more information on AHSP VET courses (costs, locations, units of competency, structured workplace elarning hours etc), please visit the website > https://www.ahsps.com.au/ 

If your child is interested in a pathway outside of these VET courses, they can speak with the VET Coordinator to explore other available options. 

How to Get Started 

The first step to enrolling in a VET course is speaking with your school’s VET or Careers Pathways Coordinator. They can provide guidance on: 

• Course selection 

• Application process (usually through the VETRO portal) 

• Timetabling and workload adjustments 

• Course costs and available subsidies 

Additionally, students in Year 10 will often have the chance to attend an Industry Immersion Day, where they can explore different VET options, talk to trainers, and participate in hands-on activities. 

How to apply for a VET course 

To apply for a VET course, families need to complete an AHSP Enrolment Form > https://adelaidehillsstudentpathways-2.snapforms.com.au/form/ahsps-online-application-form.  

As apart of the Enrolment Form, you will be required to upload VETRO evidence to demonstrate the student’s interest in the industry. See further information about VETRO evidence below. 

Please note: Completing this Enrolment Form is not a confirmation of acceptance into the course. Confirmation of acceptance into a course is sent out later in the year. 

VETRO Evidence 

Some VET courses are supported by government initiatives that subsidise costs in key industries where skilled workers are in demand. VETRO evidence is required to access this subsidised funding and to demonstrate a student’s interest in a pathway. This VETRO evidence can be in the form of one of the following (course dependant): 

• White Card 

• Engagement in an Industry Immersion activity (eg. “Come and Try day”) 

• Work experience in a relevant industry 

• Assignment based on the relevant industry 

• Portfolio of work  

Learn More 

If you're a student considering your future, or a parent wanting to support your child's career goals, VET is an excellent option worth exploring. For more detailed information about specific courses, providers, and how to apply, please contact the school’s VET Coordinator, Caitlin Taylor, at dl.0926.vet@schools.sa.edu.au