The Department of Education and Training has launched a new initiative to inspire the next generation of secondary school students to take up vocational education and training (VET).
Minister for Education, James Merlino said nominations were open for the new VET Champions initiative, which would showcase high-achieving Victorians who had built successful careers through VET.
“VET Champions could be someone who recently completed a course or apprenticeship or traineeship and is now thriving in their job, or they may be in their 30s and leading an exciting project or their own company,” Mr Merlino said.
“They will have the opportunity to share their experiences by speaking at events, participating in panel discussions, and meeting with students at school events or at TAFEs,” he said.
“VET Champions will be supported with specialised training in public speaking and presentation and will have their stories captured with digital content and videos.”
Mr Merlino said the initiative would help improve students’ understanding of vocational pathways and career options.
“VET Champions will show students the value of hands-on learning – whether through an apprenticeship, traineeship, a Certificate or a Diploma, future success often begins with vocational training,” the Minister said.
“We want to ensure that all Victorian secondary school students have the opportunity to pursue high-quality VET training in schools which is why we’re developing a new single integrated senior secondary certificate,” he said.
Further information on the VET Champions initiative, including how to nominate, can be accessed on the Department’s website at this PS News link.
