Vocational Education and Training (VET) Term 2 Updates

From construction sites to hospitals, aviation workshops to game design studios, our students are gaining real-world experience and industry-recognised qualifications through VET.

Term 2 has been an exciting and busy semester for students involved in Vocational Education and Training (VET) at Norwood International High School. We currently have more than 100 students across Years 10–12 undertaking vocational learning, ranging from short industry taster courses through to nationally recognised Certificate II and III qualifications across a diverse range of industries.

Throughout the semester, students have travelled to a variety of training locations across Adelaide, learning from experienced industry professionals and gaining valuable practical skills in authentic workplace environments. These opportunities not only build technical knowledge but also give students a head start towards future employment and career pathways.

Did You Know?

South Australia’s demand for skilled workers continues to grow. Over the next five years, it is estimated that around 90,500 VET qualifications will need to be delivered to meet the state’s workforce needs.

Current workforce projections also show that South Australia needs both vocational and university-qualified graduates, with approximately 53% of future qualification demand being VET-based and 47% requiring higher education qualifications. This highlights the important role vocational education plays alongside university pathways in preparing young people for the future.

There has never been a better time to consider VET. Significant government investment means many courses are heavily subsidised, creating fantastic opportunities for students to gain nationally recognised qualifications while still at school and enter industries experiencing strong workforce demand.

Celebrating Student Success

Congratulations to several of our VET students who have achieved outstanding success this semester:

• Michael R (Year 12) was nominated by PEER for the Engineering Student of the Year Award.

• Zac D received a Certificate of Excellence in Plumbing at Western Technical College.

• Zac D and Connor K were invited to attend Born2Build’s Leadership Day during the July school holidays.

• Rosario M (Year 12) successfully secured a school-based apprenticeship in Automotive.

These achievements reflect the fantastic opportunities VET provides for students to develop industry skills and begin exciting career pathways while still at school.

VET Applications for 2027

Planning for 2027 begins early in Term 3, with applications for next year’s VET courses opening soon. As places in many courses fill quickly, students interested in exploring vocational pathways are encouraged to book a VET enrolment meeting with Ms Guerin to discuss their interests and options.

The Connect website will also be updated over the school holidays with comprehensive information about available VET courses, career pathways and application processes, making it easier for students and families to explore the opportunities available.

When is VET Available?

• Year 10: Optional industry immersions and short taster courses

• Years 11–12: Nationally recognised VET qualifications (Certificate II and III)

• School-based apprenticeships/traineeships can be commenced once the student in 15 years old.

Industry Areas Available

Students can explore pathways in a wide range of industries, including:

• Aviation

• Animal Care

• Automotive

• Building and Construction

• Electrotechnology

• Manufacturing and Engineering

• Plumbing

• Horticulture

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

• Screen and Media, Gaming and Visual Effects (VFX)

• Health

• Early Childhood Education

• Hospitality

• Hair and Beauty

Whether students are looking to enter the workforce, complete a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship, or use VET as a pathway into further study, vocational education provides valuable real-world skills and nationally recognised qualifications that can open many doors.

Vanessa Guerin

VET Leader

Email: dl.0787.vet@schools.sa.edu.au