Elias and Bella are full-time Technology students at NCAT, both undertaking VET Automotive and developing pathways into the automotive industry.

Elias is a Year 12 student completing their second year of the Certificate II in Automotive. They were inspired to enrol through their father’s passion for working on cars, with many childhood memories involving time spent learning about automotive work with their family. They value these experiences and hope their studies continue to strengthen family connections while building a future career in the industry.

Bella is a Year 10 student in her first year of the Certificate II in Automotive. She chose Automotive due to her long-standing interest in cars and her aspiration to work in the industry. She enjoys learning new skills and values the hands-on nature of the program.

Both students appreciate the practical, real-world learning environment and the opportunity to study alongside others with similar interests. The course supports them in developing industry-relevant skills, technical knowledge, and workplace readiness.

Elias enjoys the challenges presented through practical tasks, which continue to build their confidence, independence, and capability. They have also completed Structured Workplace Learning, gaining valuable insight into industry expectations and applying their skills in a workplace setting.

Bella has developed foundational skills in mechanical hand tools and basic electrical components. While she sometimes finds it challenging to retain all course content, she continues to grow in confidence and understanding with strong support from her teachers, whom she describes as “amazing.”

The Certificate II in Automotive supports Elias’s senior studies by combining theory with practical experience. Their long-term goal is to become a heavy diesel mechanic and eventually own their own business. Bella aims to transition into an apprenticeship or a full-time automotive role after school.

Overall, both Elias and Bella have had a positive experience in VET Automotive, strengthening their confidence and supporting their future aspirations in the industry.

I attend St Johns Greek Orthodox College and am currently in Year 12, completing the VCE program. I am undertaking my VET studies at NCAT, where I am enrolled in a Carpentry course and am currently in my second year of the program.

I was inspired to enrol in my VET course because of my career interests and the future pathways I am working towards in the building and construction industry. The best part of the course is the practical, hands-on nature of the learning. I enjoy knowing that I am actively practising and developing skills that I will use in real workplace settings.

Through my VET course, I have learned the fundamentals of carpentry, including tool use and the construction of various building elements. Beyond technical skills, I have also developed important life skills such as problem-solving, independence, and self-reliance.

One of the more challenging aspects of the course is working alongside people with different skill levels and approaches. However, this has also helped me develop stronger communication and teamwork skills.

I have completed Structured Workplace Learning as part of my VET course. It has been an important part of my learning, helping me understand how to work safely and legally on a construction site while gaining insight into industry expectations.

My VET course complements my senior studies by providing a balance to my academic subjects. It contributes to my VCE units and offers a practical break from classroom-based learning, which I find both motivating and enjoyable.

My future aspiration is to complete a carpentry apprenticeship and build a career in the construction industry.

Overall, I would encourage other students interested in a trade to consider VET. It is a valuable pathway that helps students develop industry skills while still at school and provides a strong foundation for future employment.

My name is Ayden, and while completing my VCE studies at Thomastown Secondary College, I also completed two VET certificates at Peter Lalor Secondary College.

In Year 11, I completed the Certificate II in Community Services. This course was a natural fit for me because I enjoy socialising and working with people. Through roleplays, practical activities and informative modules, I developed valuable skills in case management, advocacy, coordinating group activities and communicating effectively with clients. These skills will support my future pathway into the Police Academy. The course also included excursions, incursions and First Aid training, which made the learning experience engaging and practical. My teacher, Sarath, was incredibly kind and supportive, creating a welcoming and positive learning environment.

In Year 12, I completed the Certificate II in Cookery. Having already worked part-time in hospitality for several years, I was excited to further develop my skills in a professional kitchen environment. I particularly appreciated that Peter Lalor offered the opportunity to complete the qualification within one year. Throughout the course, I refined my technical knife skills, learned workflow planning and gained confidence preparing a wide range of dishes from scratch.

The most rewarding aspect of my VET experience was the support I received from the teachers and staff. VET Coordinator Rachael and my Cookery teacher Russell consistently encouraged me and made learning enjoyable. Their hands-on teaching approach suited my learning style far more than traditional theory-based learning.

I would highly recommend completing a VET course at Peter Lalor Secondary College. VET provides students with practical industry skills, valuable life experience and clear pathways into further training and employment.

My name is Cooper and I’m a Year 12 VCE VM student at Mill Park Secondary College. I study Plumbing at the Outer Northern Trade Training Centre (ONTTC), where I’m completing both first and second year in 2025. I was first introduced to plumbing during my work placement, and I immediately knew it was the right fit for me. That experience led me to change my VET course from carpentry to plumbing so I could fully focus on a pathway I’m passionate about.

One of the things I enjoy most about ONTTC is how the teachers make the work enjoyable. They create a fun and engaging learning environment that feels more like a real job site than a classroom. We do more practical work than theory, which suits me perfectly because I enjoy hands-on learning. Sitting and writing all day just isn’t for me, so being able to get up, use tools, and work on real tasks makes a big difference.

Since starting the course, I’ve learnt a lot — from the correct use of power tools and understanding different materials, to learning the proper processes to do a job right the first time. I’ve also learnt how to fix mistakes if they happen, which is an important skill on any worksite.

Adjusting to this style of learning was a bit of a challenge at first, especially due to a lot of my previous education being more theory-based. But now I’ve adapted and really enjoy the practical focus. I’ve also learnt a lot about workplace safety (OHS) and how to look after myself and others on the job.

At school, the VCE VM course supports the mental and personal aspects of work life, while ONTTC gives me the practical skills. Together, they’ve helped prepare me for my future. After graduation, I want to become a full-time plumber, start an apprenticeship, and one day either own my own business or join the union.

My name is Grace, and I’m a Year 11 student at Marymede Catholic College. I’m currently studying a Certificate III in Allied Health Services. I’ve always been interested in health and wellbeing, largely because of my mum and aunty, who both work in the health sector and have inspired me to follow a similar path.

This course has given me a strong foundation in practical, hands-on skills that are directly relevant to the healthcare industry. I’ve learned how to interact with a wide range of clients, understand medical terminology, and navigate workplace procedures. Some of the assessments can be a bit challenging at times, but I’m gaining valuable experience that’s preparing me for the future.

Right now, I’m doing my placement at Estia Health, which has been a great opportunity to apply everything I’ve learned over the past year and a half in a real-world setting. The course also connects really well with my other VCE subjects, especially Physical Education and Psychology. Since it’s a scored VCE VET subject, it will also contribute to my ATAR.

In the future, I’m interested in pursuing something fitness-related within the health field—possibly as a personal trainer or a physiotherapist. My experience in the VET program has been incredibly positive. I’ve had such a great teacher, Meaghan Voymard, who has been so helpful and supportive throughout the course. I’ve learned so much from her.

This course has really confirmed my passion for working in health, and I’m excited about where it could lead me.

I began my VET journey as a student at Peter Lalor Secondary College which resulted in the completion of three NMVC VET courses:

• Cert II Retail Cosmetics at Peter Lalor Secondary College in 2018
• Cert III Beauty Services at Macleod College in 2019
• Cert Il in Salon Assistant at Peter Lalor Secondary College in 2020

Enrolling in Certificate II in Retail Cosmetics during Year 10 at Peter Lalor Secondary College provided me with an invaluable foundation for my future self as a Beauty Therapist.

My enthusiasm for beauty has always been evident—whether it involved painting my nails, applying makeup, or using fake tan, I found joy in every aspect of the beauty world. From a young age, I recognized my passion for this industry, and pursuing VET Retail Cosmetics was the perfect initial step, paving the way for my subsequent Certificate III in Beauty Services.

While studying, I gained significant insights into the workings of a beauty salon. My courses included practical role-playing exercises that taught me how to welcome clients, understand their needs, and create a safe and nurturing environment. These experiences helped me grasp what it truly means to work in the field and prepared me for real-world challenges. Studying beauty was not just educational; it was a joyful experience filled with new friendships, weekly gatherings, and a sense of camaraderie with fellow beauty enthusiasts.

At 15, after finishing my beauty courses, I established my own home studio, allowing me to pursue my passion professionally. After completing Year 12, I dedicated myself to my business full-time and have since broadened my service offerings. I’ve pursued further education in various specialties, including eyebrow laminations, cosmetic eyebrow tattooing, fat freezing, and teeth whitening, among others.

Now, seven years after completing my first beauty course in Retail Cosmetics, I provide 13 distinct beauty treatments, maintain a loyal clientele of over 100 clients, and have successfully launched three additional businesses—beauty training, lash and mascara growth serums, and my own product line.

I’m also thrilled to have been given the opportunity to return to Peter Lalor Secondary College as a teacher for the Certificate III in Beauty Services, sharing my passion and knowledge with aspiring beauty therapists.

To all students contemplating a VET course, my advice is simple: persevere through the challenges, absorb every lesson, and leverage what you learn for your future. Everyone has to start somewhere, and beginning your journey early can give you a significant advantage in the industry!

My name is Poppy and I am  a Year 12 student at Hazel Glen College. I’m currently studying the Certificate II in Electrotechnology at ONTTC, where I’ve taken on both first and second-year units this year.

I’ve always been a hands-on person, so in my final year of school, I thought I may as well try something new and different. I did Beauty last year, but it didn’t turn out to be as enjoyable as I expected. Electrotechnology, on the other hand, has been an amazing experience so far. The best part of the course is definitely being in the workshop—I’m always doing or learning something new, and the teachers are super supportive. It honestly feels like I’m already working as an apprentice.

In the course, I’ve learned how to strip cables, understand how switches work internally, and apply safety measures in practical situations. I really enjoy the small projects we get to do, especially when things light up at the end! Doing both first and second-year content in one year has been a challenge, and sometimes I do feel a little behind. But my classmates have been a great support, and it helps me push through.

Although I haven’t done Structured Workplace Learning yet due to the combined coursework, I’ve gained real-world experience through the simulated work environment at ONTTC. The practical maths involved has even helped improve my numeracy at school.

My dream is to become an electrician. I know the real world will be different from what we do at ONTTC, and that’s a bit scary—but I’m also excited. This course has set me up for success, and I’m so glad I gave it a go. It’s nothing like Beauty—and I love it for that!

As a Year 12 student at NCAT, I’ve had the opportunity to dive into a comprehensive VET pathway as part of my VCE. From Electrotechnology and Engineering Studies to my current focus on Plumbing and Automotive, each course has broadened my horizons and equipped me with a versatile skill set.

My journey in trades was sparked by a childhood fascination with trains. Drawn to the idea of working for Metro trains and contributing to infrastructure projects, I embarked on my VET journey. During the Certificate II in Engineering in 2022, I became confident in the use of lathes, grinders, guillotines, cutting saws, welding and using a variety of hand tools and equipment. I learned the fundamentals of drawing and reading engineering diagrams, laying the groundwork for my future endeavours.

Wanting to expand my expertise, in 2023 I completed the Certificate II in Electrotechnology delving into topics like domestic lighting and motor control. To diversify my knowledge, I started the Certificate II in Plumbing in 2024, while simultaneously completing the Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation. These choices were driven by a desire to explore different trades and equip myself with practical skills, including how to fix my car.

Doing SWL has given me great insights into how things work in the real world, backing up what I learn in class. These experiences have deepened my understanding of industry practices and made it easier to merge theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

I’m focused on securing an electrical apprenticeship and becoming an A Grade electrician. My goal is not only personal success but also, as a member of NCAT’s Young Women in the Trades and Technology group, to challenge gender stereotypes and advocate for young women to consider VET trades programs and promote inclusivity and equality in traditionally male-dominated field

As a Year 11 VCE VM student at Mernda Central College, I am currently enrolled in the Certificate II in Creative Industries at Peter Lalor Secondary College. I have a passion for photography and the arts, and I thought this course would allow me to express my creative side and challenge me in different areas of the arts.

I really enjoy the practical aspects of my course. The first half of the day we do some theory and computer work and after lunch we get to do the hands-on creative stuff which is my favourite part of the day. I also enjoy the group work and creating friendships with students from other schools.

During the course, I’ve used a lot of technology, including Apple Mac computers and Photoshop. This has improved my skills in graphic design and digital media. My VET course connects with my other school subjects like VCE VM Personal Development Skills and Industry and Enterprise. These subjects teach me important skills for a future career in the creative industries.

I have been lucky enough to undertake SWL with the Whittlesea Tech School which has helped me become more independent. During work placement I was given lots of different tasks to complete throughout the day. I got to learn more about graphic design and even create a logo for the school which is currently being used.

I believe in including everyone, so I encourage my classmates, no matter their skills, to check out VET. I think there’s a perfect VET course for everyone, and it’s great to have different learning experiences.

Peter Lalor Secondary College has been super supportive, with students and staff creating a friendly atmosphere.

Looking ahead, I hope to gain employment in the creative field, especially in photography.

My name is Nicky and I graduated from Peter Lalor Secondary College in 2023 with a Year 12 VCE VM completion.

The VET course that I chose was the Certificate II in Kitchen Operations (now called Cookery) as I had a love of cooking. This then turned into a passion, when you see how happy the dishes you have created make other people feel it is truly rewarding. The best part of my VET course was the support and encouragement that the teachers at Peter Lalor Secondary College gave me to continue with the course and to also catch up on some of the units that I had missed in the first year. At times some of the cooking, especially the baking, was challenging, but my teacher took a lot of time with me, always encouraging me and showing me the correct way to complete the tasks and I was always able to complete the tasks within the required delivery timeframes.

I learnt so much from my VET teacher over the two years of the course, apart from the actual cooking I learnt knife skills, time management, multitasking, problem solving and numeracy tasks such as measurement, division and multiplication for increasing and decreasing recipes.

After completing my Year 12 and my VET Kitchen Operations course I was fortunate enough to be supported through the National Indigenous Culinary Institute to gain a first year apprenticeship with the Australian Venue Co. This career would not have been possible without my VET certificate or the support from the wonderful staff at Peter Lalor Secondary College.

I think that everyone should know that VET is an amazing opportunity to gain some background in a career that you think you might like to do while you are still at school. If you stick with it and gain your certificate nothing will stop you getting to where you want to be. If you choose not to follow that pathway you will still have learnt some skills that you will be able to use in your adult life.

I’m Willeford, a Year 12 VCE VM student enrolled in my second year of Certificate III in Music (Composition and Creation) at Sydney Road Community School.

I was taking another music class back when I first enrolled, but it was more to do with playing instruments, and I was much more interested in making music digitally on my laptop – and that’s when my teacher recommended this course to me.

The best thing about the course is being able to connect with others – it’s nice to clock in, spend a couple of hours making tunes with some great people and then going home. It feels like everyone in the course has a common understanding about music and making art.

Although I don’t have future aspirations to be in the music industry, I still want to keep making music as a hobby, and the skills I’ve learnt in this course will definitely help towards me doing that.

During this course I’ve learnt how to use Ableton, something I never really considered doing before coming here since I’m still a resident FL Studio user at heart. Constructing a song in every class is doable but it takes a lot of concentration – you really need to be in the right headspace for it.

I can always vouch for the teachers at Sydney Road Community School, and I definitely recommend this course to anyone who digs electronic music or sampling – it’s made a big impact on my social life and it’s just a really nice, welcoming environment.