In a positive development for the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector, the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) has unveiled its latest findings, indicating an increase in the number of Australian school students engaging in VET programs in 2023.
The VET in Schools 2023 report reveals that 252,105 students incorporated VET into their schooling, representing a 3.8% rise from 2022.
They consisted of:
- 7.7% (or 19,310) school-based apprentices and trainees
- 92.3% (or 232,795) students undertaking other VET in Schools programs.
All students taking part in VET were enrolled in nationally recognised training programs, with training package qualifications emerging as the predominant choice, comprising an impressive 92.8% of all enrolments. More than half were for Certificate II level qualifications, with approximately one-third for Certificate III programs.
The report highlights the most popular school-based apprenticeships and traineeships were in the Tourism, Travel and Hospitality, Business Services, and Retail Services fields.
Importantly, around one-quarter of Australian students aged 15 - 19 are now participating in VET, reflecting the increasing recognition of vocational pathways as a critical aspect of secondary education in Australia.
The VET in Schools 2023 report shows the commitment to equipping students with practical skills and knowledge essential for future career success outside of the classroom. For more information, the complete report is available on the NCVER website here.
