Victorian Students who have been unable to achieve their Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) or complete Vocational Education and Training (VET) this year are to receive additional support as part of a new assistance package.
Minister for Education, James Merlino said students would be able to access special consideration to support them to achieve their VCAL.
“There are more than 10,000 students in their final year of schooling completing VCAL,” Mr Merlino said.
“Where students are unable to complete units, the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) will grant students credit which ensures every student will be supported to gain their VCAL certificate regardless of the impact of the pandemic,” he said.
Mr Merlino said schools would consider the impacts of school closures and remote learning on practical parts of studies; long absences; dealing with substantial extra responsibilities at home; impacts on student health and wellbeing and/or immediate family; and mental health challenges.
“Students undertaking applied learning through VET have also faced a unique set of challenges this year with many unable to participate in essential practical learning,” he said.
“Students who do not complete their VET qualifications in 2020 as intended, will be guaranteed enrolment at a TAFE or dual sector provider and have their 2021 VET fees waived in order to complete their course, or an equivalent course where it is not provided.”
He said students would have an additional month to complete their VET studies this year, until 18 December, and have these recognised on their VCAL.
“This has been a year like no other, it’s why our message to every student is this: if you’ve worked hard, if you’ve done your best – we’ll help make sure you succeed,” Mr Merlino said.
