In summary

  • Swinburne has been awarded $1.2 million as part of the Victorian Government’s Vocational Taster Experiences Pilot
  • With more students than ever, undertaking VET subjects as part of their VCE, the pilot aims to give students early exposure to vocational and applied learning and understand the requirements of undertaking a VET certificate
  • Over the next 18 months, Year 9 and 10 government school students will be welcomed to Swinburne campuses to participate in workshops that centre on priority industries

Swinburne University of Technology has been awarded $1.2 million as part of the Victorian Government’s Vocational Taster Experiences Pilot, which will provide students with opportunities to explore different careers, vocational and industry pathways, and build confidence to make decisions about future education and career pathways.  

Running until December 2026, the pilot will help Year 9 and 10 students enrolled in Victorian government schools to experience a range of vocational education and training (VET) study and career options before choosing their Year 11 and 12 subjects.

This Victorian Government initiative is committed to introducing students to a range of options early on to enable confident decision making for senior secondary pathways, which can help address critical skills shortages across the care economy, clean energy, and building and construction industries.

“We are proud to be part of an initiative that empowers young Victorians to explore meaningful career pathways through hands-on learning,” said Swinburne Pro Vice-Chancellor of Vocational Education and Training, Madelyn Bolch. “I am optimistic that by giving students the opportunity to experience a VET environment we might begin to shift the narrative around career pathways, starting with how they talk about their day at the family dinner table.”

Funding for the pilot will provide participating government school students with transportation and learning materials, equipping them with the resources to make the most of their experience.

The student experience

Over the next 18 months, Swinburne’s Wantirna and Croydon campuses will welcome Year 9 and 10 students to participate in one of three curated rotations designed to introduce them to a range of vocational education pathways.

At the Wantirna campus, students will engage in three workshops across allied health, early childhood education and community services, gaining insight into careers that support and nurture communities. Alternatively, students will have the opportunity to experience hands-on activities in electrical and engineering trades, exploring the practical skills required in these dynamic industries.

At the Croydon campus, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of carpentry and plumbing through interactive, skills-based sessions that highlight the value of craftsmanship and trade expertise.

“By immersing students in these learning experiences early on and exposing them to the pathways available, we can help build a future-ready workforce for industries that need it most,” said Ms Bolch.

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