Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) - Senior

The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) is a senior secondary certificate based on vocationally orientated applied learning principles. At Senior level, knowledge and employability skills development leads to a high level of interpersonal skills, independent action and achievement of tasks that require decision-making and leadership.

The course provides an accredited program of studies in the following five compulsory strands: Literacy; Numeracy; Work-related skills; Personal development skills; Industry skills. Each learning strand contains accredited components drawn from VET qualifications, VCAL and/or VCE studies.

 

The VCAL programs at Swinburne University of Technology promote the principles and practice of Australian democracy, including a commitment to: elected government; the rule of law; equal rights for all before the law; freedom of religion; freedom of speech and association; the values of openness and tolerance.

VCAL is delivered under the authority of the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) and follows the policies and procedures outlined in the ‘VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook 2019’.  VCAL information for students and parents can also be found at the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) website.

 

VCAL results and certificates, where students have met all eligibility criteria, are issued directly by the VCAA. Results and certificates are sent once only, in late December, by the VCAA to Swinburne University of Technology for distribution to students. The University sends results and certificates to the student postal address on the enrolment record.

Successful completion of the Senior VCAL will provide students with skills that are important for life, work and further study as well as a VCAL Certificate and/or Statement of Attainment. The VCAL program is designed to develop and extend pathways for students from school to further education, training and work.

 

Graduates of Senior level VCAL may apply directly for selection into Certificate II through to diploma courses, apprenticeship and traineeship programs. Students may also pathway into employment.

Swinburne VCE/VCAL statistics

The following statistics are sourced from Swinburne Student Management System, VCAA (VASS database) and 2021 On Track Survey.

Participation rate

VCAL (Intermediate) 58 students
VCAL (Senior) 70 students
VCE 86 students

Unit completion rate

VCAL (Intermediate): 76.8%
VCAL (Senior): 85.1%
VCE: 89.7%

Destinations of students (students who completed in 2020)