The College is always looking for ways to provide increased opportunities for boys to find their individual pathway. We aim to deliver on what we call pathways for all.

Year 10

The Year 10 program is linked with the VCE allowing each student the opportunity to move into accelerated learning programs by undertaking VCE studies as a part of their elective program.

The Year 10 personal development program builds open the life-long learning practices introduced in Year 9. Study skills, higher order thinking skills, healthy living practices and pathways counselling form a significant part of the program.

Students at Year 10 are also encouraged and supported to reach their full potential. The Year 10 program includes many opportunities for Accelerated learning with over half the students undertaking a Unit 3 study.

Years 11 and 12

At Years 11 and 12 students are able to undertake the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL). Both certificates may include Vocation Education and Training (VET) units.

Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE)

The Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) is a two-year certificate for Years 11 and 12. It is made up of semester (half year) length units of study. There are a range of subjects available from which to select, ensuring that each student has a program tailored to meet their needs, interests and future aspirations.

Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) 

The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) program provides an alternative pathway to the VCE for students in Years 11 and 12. Students participating in VCAL study English, Maths, Religious Education, Work Related Skills (WRS) and Personal Development Skills (PDS) three days a week. The VCAL Program gives students practical work-related experience, as well as literacy and numeracy skills and the opportunity to build personal skills that are important for their future life and work.

Last year the Year 12 VCAL students undertook a Construction Project at St Luke’s Primary School in Wantirna. The program involved students in the designing and building of a variety of projects on the school grounds. All aspects of the projects were run by the students, including organising equipment required, providing invoices for purchasing of goods and keeping accurate records of expenditure. The projects included the construction of two shelter areas, bench seating, garden beds, new paths and the building of a new garden shed.

VCAL students are required to participate in a VET study as part of the VCAL Certificate. Many students gain a Certificate II or III qualification that enhances their vocational skills. Another component of the VCAL is work placement. Students must achieve a minimum of 100 hours of employment. This can be done with an employer or as a School Based Apprenticeship (SBA). Many boys trial an employer in Year 11 and then are partnered with an SBA in Year 12.

The VCAL program provides students with an opportunity to participate in their chosen vocation but, more importantly, it teaches them employability and personal development skills, preparing them for life.

Vocational Education & Training (VET)

Vocational Education and Training (VET) combines general VCE or VCAL studies with vocational training and experience in the workplace. St Joseph’s offers senior students programs selected from a range of industry areas approved by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA).

Being a part of the Mullum VET Cluster offers students with the opportunity to participate in a unique two-year program. Through their VET courses, students are able to achieve a nationally recognised Certificate II or Certificate III.

Participating in a VET study improves a student’s employability and industry specific skills which have been designed to meet industry requirements. It provides students with the options to partake in employment or continue with further study in vocational training.

Our students excel with the practical aspect of VET. Each year, the Mullum VET Cluster Awards Night showcases excellence in vocational studies, enhancing their educational experience. This night celebrates the achievements and hard work put in by all VET students.