VET (Vocational Education and Training) courses in Australia are a professional education system that focuses on practical preparation for students to work in their chosen occupations. You will be prepared to enter the labor market with the necessary preparation, skills, and knowledge as a result of such education. It is an excellent option for people who want to begin a new career, improve their qualifications, or return to the job market after a long absence.
Because qualification training is frequently compulsory in Australia, VET training is an excellent option for international students who want to start working in their dream job right away. Furthermore, when compared to other forms of education, schools are better prepared to deal with local employment conditions in a shorter period of time.
What are the Purposes of Vocational Education and Training?
The process of imparting job-related and practical knowledge is referred to as vocational education and training. It contributes to the sophistication of the educational system and can help one perform better in their profession. What is the exact scope of this? Continue reading to find out more about it.
Vocational Education and Training Scope
Vocational Education courses are not only available to students in college and high school. This type of training can also be provided on the job. Such job-oriented training is beneficial to the economy because it eliminates the need for additional training in the future. Labor allocation in the country can be greatly improved with vocational guidance.
Unemployment or un-employability is a widespread problem in many countries. In this situation, an individual wishes to work but has not been prepared for the position or lacks the necessary practical skills.
Unemployment, on the other hand, is a situation in which a competent and qualified individual is unable to find work due to a lack of available professional opportunities. The issue of unemployability broadens the scope of vocational education.
Benefits Of VET
Vocational education is important for a variety of reasons, including:
Makes you job-ready
Vocational training can both prepare a person for a job and increase work efficiency. It makes it easier to find a job that matches a person’s skills, knowledge, and abilities. It increases the market value of a job seeker. It is non-academic training that can help you become an expert in a specific domain. Vocational education courses are becoming more popular as employers prefer trained applicants who know their job well.
Enhances entrepreneurship abilities
Entrepreneurship skills can also be improved through vocational education courses. Individuals can gain the experience and skills required to set up their own work area. It can assist him or her in developing job-specific skills. Such abilities can assist him or her in developing a new service or product.
Contributes to economic growth
This type of training can improve the skills of people who start small businesses. It is critical for overall economic growth. Such courses can help to ensure job security. It is easy to see why there is a growing demand for vocational education and training these days.
VET POSSIBLE CAREER OPTIONS TO PURSUE
Vocational training courses are extremely popular among international students in Australia. As a result, there are hundreds of providers to choose from, and everyone can find the right course for them. Vocational courses are offered at various levels of education, so whether you are just starting out or have a qualification in your chosen field, you will find the right school for you!
We’ve divided them into six categories to make it easier for you to find the course you’re looking for.
HEALTH: Nursing, Public Health, Mental Health, Nutrition, Massage, Medicine, Veterinary, Dental, Aged Care, Childcare, Community, and Social Services are all included. Learn more about health courses.
MANAGEMENT: Business Management, International Business, Human Resources, Supply Chain Management, Agribusiness Management, Project Management, Leadership and Management, Banking, Marketing, and Sustainability are all part of it. Learn more about Management courses.
IT: It is comprised of Cyber Security, Data Management, Blockchain, Machine Learning, Software Development, Website Development, IT in general, Networking, Business Analysis, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Game Programming, and Telecommunication. Learn more about IT courses.
DESIGN & MEDIA: Graphic Design, Interior Design, Fashion Design, Landscape, Acting, 3D & Animation, Video, Music & Audio, Digital Media, Film & Media are all examples of DESIGN & MEDIA. Learn more about Design and Media courses.
HOSPITALITY: International Hotel Management, Travel & Tourism, Events, Hospitality, Patisserie & Baking, and Commercial Cookery are all examples of hospitality. Learn more about Hospitality courses.
Vocational Career Pathways
In contrast to academic-focused career paths that require a two- or four-year degree, vocational employment has traditionally relied on shorter, job-specific training. Programs in career and technical education can typically be completed in two or fewer years, with many lasting less than a year. While some CTE programs award an associate degree, the majority award a certificate, diploma, or career-specific credential.
The healthcare industry is the foundation of many core vocational career clusters. Each career cluster provides a variety of potential employment paths that can be tailored to the prospective student’s academic and professional needs. Learn more about various career paths in health care, law, and technical/skilled trades.
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Dental Hygienists
We’ve all dealt with dental hygienists at some point in our lives. So, you already understand there is a difference between having your teeth cleaned by a good hygienist and a bad hygienist. The best hygienists have excellent bedside manners and compassion when dealing with patients. They do, however, possess the technical skills required to maneuver cleaning equipment around a patient’s mouth.
The job pays well and includes weekend time off, making it one of the best trade jobs available. Many two-year programmes can also help you break into the field of dental hygiene. These courses are available at community colleges, trade schools, and vocational schools. You may even be able to join an accelerated programme to complete your studies in less than two years.
The course covers fundamental medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology. You will also have dental-specific courses. The classes will focus on educating patients, cleaning teeth, and assisting dentists with various tasks.
Dental hygiene is one of those trade school jobs that is a win/win for a career with so many upcoming job openings. There are numerous educational programmes available to prepare you for a career in the field. With such high earnings, we believe dental hygiene is an excellent choice for many students.
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Construction Managers
Construction managers are in charge of nearly every aspect of a building project. They ensure that the job is completed on time, according to specifications, and on schedule. The majority of construction managers work as independent contractors who find their own work. This also implies that, as construction managers, they have the ability to select which construction projects they want to work on.
A construction manager must also understand building codes. This allows them to understand the regulations in the various cities and towns where they do business. Construction managers are in charge of a lot of things. They can also play a variety of roles in the construction industry. As a result, construction management is one of the best trades to learn if you want to make a good living.
You might believe that becoming a construction manager necessitates extensive education. However, most hiring managers are unconcerned about education. They are more concerned with outcomes. They want to ensure that the job is done correctly.
Construction managers frequently learn on the job as they advance to management positions. While attending vocational school, many students work in construction technology trades. This teaches them how to manage an entire construction project. These future construction managers are in an excellent position to succeed.
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Air Traffic Controllers
Many people are surprised to learn that a bachelor’s degree is not required to work in air traffic control. An associate’s degree or comparable military experience is frequently required for positions as an air traffic controller. In fact, many air traffic controllers start out in the military.
Of course, there are still many obstacles to overcome. The majority of them, however, can be completed by enrolling in a two-year vocational programme. It all comes down to effort, just like many other well-paying trade school jobs.
What exactly do air traffic controllers do? The safety of air operations is of primary concern to air traffic controllers. They direct air traffic into and out of airports as efficiently as possible.
Air traffic controllers may be forced to make difficult decisions in an emergency. As a result, they play critical roles in safely returning planes and passengers to the ground.
As you might expect, passing a number of tests is required to become an air traffic controller (at least for the FAA). There are tests for physical health, mental health, and cognitive functioning among them.
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Web Developers
Web developers have some of the best trade jobs available. Web development is a one-of-a-kind trade school job in which clients are unconcerned about your educational background. They are more concerned with the results you can deliver.
There are numerous paths to a career in web development. These are some examples:
- Certification programmes are available both online and in person
- Individual online free courses
- Individually purchased online courses
- Bootcamps for self-study
- Associate degrees and two-year degrees
- Bachelor’s degree of four years
Your portfolio is one of the most important steps in preparing to be a web developer. This demonstrates that you are working on projects and learning new technologies. As a result, a web developer should begin with some hands-on experience right away.
The term “web developer” is most commonly used to refer to a “front-end developer.” These employees are in charge of the visual and interactive elements of a website. HTML, CSS, Javascript, and PHP are probably familiar terms to you. These are the languages in which the majority of web developers gain experience.
Web developer jobs are very lucrative and are similar to web design jobs. In web development, you can work for a company or as a freelancer. You can also expand your skill set as you go. As a result, this is one of the highest-paying trade-school jobs on the list.
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Mechanics and Technicians for Aircraft
Across the country, aircraft mechanics and technicians are in high demand. Aviation mechanics and technicians with associate degrees can enter the workforce. They can also receive certificates based on the area of the plane they work on.
Furthermore, many of these well-paying trade jobs offer the chance to break into the manufacturing industry. Learning to make aeroplane parts can lead to more opportunities for advancement later in life. People usually start out as aircraft mechanics or technicians who receive hands-on training.
People typically begin their careers as aircraft mechanics or technicians who receive hands-on training. Many enrol in an FAA-approved trade school. These institutions teach students how to test and maintain aircraft-related equipment. Workers will most likely specialise in various roles in the field over time, including:
- Mechanics of the airframe and powerplant: Work on a variety of aircraft parts
- Avionics specialists: Specialize in plane electrical equipment.
- Technicians of inspection: Give the “all clear” for a plane to take off.
All of these well-paying jobs require a trade school education.
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Construction and Building Inspectors
Construction and building inspectors determine whether a new or existing structure complies with building codes. They also assess whether the structure is safe for potential occupants. They might be employed by the local or state government. They may, however, be hired to conduct inspections on behalf of:
- Banks and mortgage lenders
- Homebuyers
- Homesellers
- Real estate brokers
- Companies that provide insurance
- Lawyers
- Renters
The vast majority of building inspectors gain knowledge on the job. Many have previously worked in the construction or another skilled trade after attending trade school. On the other hand, they also attend vocational or trade schools to learn specific aspects of their jobs.
Some states also require licensure or certification. A trade or vocational school is often the provider of these programmes. Construction and building inspectors must be familiar with all local building codes, which necessitates a quick recall.
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Film Editors and Camera Operators
Film editors and camera operators are two careers that can be obtained through vocational school education. Neither of these positions has any formal educational requirements. However, production film settings are becoming increasingly high-tech. As a result, courses in film production and camera work help many people break into the industry.
These trade school courses may include:
- Filmmaking
- Cinematography
- Lighting
- Visual effects
- Regulations and industry practises
Work conditions and employment arrangements for film editors and camera operators vary. Some editors and camera operators work as independent contractors. Others have steady jobs in the entertainment industry. The majority of film editors and camera operators work on a per-project basis. This includes those involved in the production of major motion pictures.
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Plumbers
In the past, most plumbers learned their trade through apprenticeships. However, many people nowadays begin their careers by attending a trade school. Many states require plumbers to be licenced.
Plumbers frequently work nights and weekends to make emergency house calls. They are frequently required to work nights, weekends, and holidays. These visits, on the other hand, are frequently charged at a premium rate. As a result, they offer plumbers the opportunity to earn even more money.
A typical plumbing program at a vocational or trade school may include the following courses:
- Design of a pipe system
- Reading blueprints
- Gas distribution networks
- Drainage methods
- System of water supply
- Techniques for brazing and soldering
- Drainage methods
- Pipes, fittings, and valves must be installed and repaired.
- Protocols for safety
- Plumbing regulations
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Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
Some of the highest-paying trade school jobs on our list are Licensed Practical Nurses and Licensed Vocational Nurses. Working in one of these two roles is also the quickest way to get started in a nursing career. Nurses are in high demand at all levels of education. LPNs and LVNs are no different.
Both of these roles are essentially interchangeable. Both require some work in a vocational or trade school, but neither requires an associate’s degree. As a result, these nursing positions have some of the lowest entry barriers in the healthcare industry.
So, what exactly does an LPN (or LVN) do? Among the responsibilities are:
- Understand medical jargon
- Vital signs monitoring
- Medicine dispensing
- Keeping in touch with patients and their families
- Maintaining patient health records
- Notifying senior nurses or doctors when a patient’s status changes.
Some states are attempting to elevate the entry-level nursing position to that of a registered nurse. But, for the time being, LPN jobs are an excellent way to begin a nursing career. And once you’ve completed the coursework to become an LPN, you can advance your career. There are numerous online and in-person programs available to help you advance your academic credentials while working full-time.
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Technicians in Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is one of the highest-paying trade jobs available without a graduate degree. Civil engineering technicians work alongside civil engineers. They assist engineers in supervising the construction of bridges, roads, tunnels, and other infrastructure.
Civil engineers are typically found on most large public infrastructure construction projects. Civil engineering technicians perform similar tasks to drafters, such as creating computer-aided design (CAD) drawings.
Civil engineering technicians may serve as intermediaries between civil engineers and construction crews. They can assess field conditions where construction projects are being completed. They may also keep track of construction progress.
Civil engineering technicians work in a variety of environments. Civil engineering teams usually spend some time in their offices. The remainder of their time will be spent on current or future construction sites. Civil engineering technicians typically work regular business hours, with nights and weekends off.
Civil engineering technicians can pursue a variety of professional degrees, including:
- Engineering assistance with drafting
- Construction engineering
- Construction science and technology
LEVELS OF THE AUSTRALIAN QUALIFICATION FRAMEWORK (AQF)
In Australia, there are thousands of vocational training courses available. They are divided into levels, with each completed unlocking the next degree level. However, depending on your previous education and qualifications, your education adventure in Australia does not always have to begin with Certificate I. In fact, the courses frequently begin with a Certificate III or IV, or in some cases, a vocational diploma. The duration of the VET courses ranges from 6 to 18 months and can be applied separately or in combination.
VET training is one of the first steps on the path to a permanent residence visa in Australia for international students. When selecting a field of study, you can check to see if the profession you want is on the list of the most desirable in the country.
Check out the information and criteria for each level of the VET sector below and take the next step to choose a CET course for your career.
CERTIFICATE I
The Certificate I course provides you with fundamental knowledge and skills in a specific industry field.
It will give you an overview of your profession, how to apply your knowledge and skills in the workplace, and information about the next stages of learning and development opportunities.
During your Certificate I VET training, you will gain industry-specific knowledge and skills in communication, literacy, numeracy, and teamwork.
CERTIFICATE II
Graduates will have basic knowledge and skills in a specific industry, as well as factual, technical, and procedural knowledge.
Participating in the course will teach you basic cognitive and communication skills, as well as how to evaluate and take specific actions in the workplace.
After completing VET training at the Certificate II level, you will be able to solve basic problems in the workplace using the proper tools, methods, and materials.
CERTIFICATE III
Graduates of VET training at the Certificate III level will have a broad range of theoretical, procedural, and technical knowledge, allowing them to perform routine professional activities.
Involvement in the Certificate III course will provide you with industry skills and broaden your knowledge of communication, allowing you to make decisions independently and accept limited liability.
After finishing VET training at the Certificate III level, you will have a number of cognitive, technical, and communication skills that will allow you to freely solve more complex problems in the workplace using the appropriate tools, methods, and materials.
CERTIFICATE IV
Certificate IV is the final step before beginning a vocational diploma program. Graduates will have the extensive substantive and technical knowledge and will be able to perform specialist work in a chosen profession after completing the Certificate IV level.
After completing VET training at the Certificate IV level, you will have a broad range of communication, cognitive, and technical skills that will enable you to carry out routine tasks as well as provide solutions to unexpected workplace problems.
DIPLOMA
Diploma-level education prepares students to apply specialised skills in a variety of industry work contexts.
The Vocational Diploma prepares you for a career in the industrial, entrepreneurial, or professional sectors. Throughout the Vocational Diploma program, you will gain specialised skills that you will be able to apply in a variety of industry work settings.
You will be able to independently evaluate and analyze information, as well as provide solutions to complex problems, after completing the Vocational Diploma.
Diplomas usually require one to two years of full-time study.
ADVANCED DIPLOMA
The Advanced Diploma program will provide you with advanced practical and substantive skills in a variety of fields such as construction, IT, engineering, accounting, and management. Some of these classes are available at the university level.
Graduates of the Advanced Diploma program have broad cognitive, communication, and technical abilities. They can analyse information, interpret and determine solutions to complex problems, and transfer knowledge to others.
