How can part-time traineeships and apprenticeships fit in with the HSC?

HSC studies can be undertaken at the same time as a part-time traineeship or apprenticeship. These are jobs that combine paid work and training that lead to a recognised Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) VET qualification.

What are the options for a student with special education needs accessing a VET Industry Curriculum Framework course?

Students with special education needs may access a VET Industry Curriculum Framework course in one of two ways: either by undertaking the course under regular course arrangements, or by undertaking selected units of competency within the course that have been identified through the collaborative planning process.

How does the HSC allow me to include Vocational Education and Training as part of my studies?

There are 11 Board Developed Industry Curriculum Frameworks, each incorporating a range of courses, that allow you to gain both HSC accreditation and Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) VET qualifications. The AQF qualifications are recognised by industry and employers throughout Australia.

Will my VET course count towards my ATAR?

The 240-hour VET industry curriculum framework courses have an optional written HSC examination. If you choose to sit for the examination; the result for that course can be included in the calculation of your ATAR.

Are all of the HSC VET courses part of the industry curriculum framework?

No. You can study other VET courses in industries where there is no framework. These courses include:

• Board Developed, TAFE NSW Delivered VET Accounting course
• TAFE NSW Delivered VET CECs in many industry areas
• locally designed VET courses endorsed by the Board of Studies

Can I study a VET course at school?

Some VET courses can be studied at school while others can be studied at TAFE NSW institutes or with other training providers.

What is work placement and how is it different from work experience?

Each of the VET Industry Curriculum Framework courses includes a mandatory component of work placement. This provides on-the-job training and is an essential part of each course.

Students leave the school and work for 35 hours in a suitable workplace for each VET Industry Curriculum Framework unit they complete. Failure to complete this requirement means that the course has not been completed.
Work experience is used by schools to give students a tasted of what a particular occupation is like. It is often undertaken in Year 10 and it does not form part of any Board of Studies credential.