Vocational Major (VM)

A practical, hands-on senior school pathway—supported with the same rigour, care and personalisation as all our programs.

The VCE Vocational Major (VM) is a new, recognised two-year VCE pathway designed for students who thrive through applied learning. At Preshil, students undertaking the VM are supported to engage in meaningful, real-world learning while still working toward a strong academic outcome.

Just like our IB and VCE programs, the VM is a pathway available through our Senior Studio model—allowing students to design a senior school experience that reflects their goals, interests and strengths. Some students may choose to combine VM subjects with other VCE or VET studies, tailoring a path that suits both their personal development and future plans.

Who is the VCE VM for?

The VCE VM is a great fit for students who:

• Enjoy hands-on and applied learning
• Want to develop real skills for work and life
• Are motivated to explore pathways outside of a traditional academic route
• Thrive when learning feels relevant, collaborative and connected to the world around them

At Preshil, we treat the VM as a valued and supported pathway. It’s part of our commitment to helping every student shape a future that fits who they are.

What do VCE VM students study?

While every student’s program is unique, the VCE VM follows a two-year structure that supports both progression and personalisation. Students typically complete a mix of core and elective subjects, along with VET studies and structured workplace learning.

Students undertaking the VCE VM complete core subjects that are structured around applied learning:

• Literacy – with a focus on real-world communication: writing job applications, interpreting texts, and public speaking.
• Numeracy – applied maths used in everyday situations, budgets, measurements and workplace contexts.
• Work Related Skills – learning how to succeed in the workplace: from teamwork and safety to goal-setting and problem-solving.
• Personal Development Skills – exploring personal identity, civic responsibility, leadership and community involvement.
• VET (Vocational Education and Training) – students enrol in a Certificate-level course (e.g. Hospitality, Building & Construction, Creative Industries) through a TAFE or Registered Training Organisation. This contributes to their VCE and builds industry-recognised skills.

Students may also complete Structured Workplace Learning (SWL), such as placements in real businesses and organisations, to gain hands-on experience that connects directly to their studies.

What are the outcomes?

The VM leads to a full VCE qualification, recognised by employers, TAFEs and other further education providers. Students graduate well-prepared for:

• Apprenticeships and traineeships
• TAFE or vocational courses
• Entry-level employment
• Further training and career development
• Non-ATAR pathways to tertiary education

The VCE VM is rigorous, purposeful and future-focused—and for many students, it’s the most meaningful way to prepare for life beyond school.

Why VCE VM at Preshil?

The VCE Vocational Major is one of several respected pathways offered at Preshil—and it’s supported with the same care, clarity and high expectations as any other.

It reflects our belief that one size fits none. Every student deserves a program that aligns with who they are, how they learn and where they want to go. For some, that means a more hands-on, applied approach to senior school—one that builds confidence, capability and a sense of purpose beyond the classroom.

Backed by our Senior Studio model, VM students are supported by our educators to grow on their terms. It’s another way Preshil helps students to shape their future with integrity, agency and real-world readiness.