At Southern Cross Catholic College, Vocational Education and Training (VET) gives students the opportunity to gain practical skills, nationally recognised qualifications, and real workplace experience while completing their senior schooling.
Our programs connect learning with industry, helping students build confidence, explore career options, and graduate with a clear pathway into employment, apprenticeships, further training, or university.
1. Learn Industry Skills on Campus
VET courses allow students to develop hands-on skills in areas that align with their interests and career goals. Programs are delivered by qualified industry trainers and provide practical learning experiences that mirror real workplaces. Students can complete nationally recognised qualifications delivered at school by industry training providers.
- Students can explore qualifications in areas such as:
- Business Sport and Recreation Justice Studies
- Community services
- Information Technology
- Real Estate Engineering and Construction Pathways
- And many more …………
2. Train with Industry Experts
Students also have the opportunity to complete vocational training through external providers such as TAFE, Mater Education and specialist training organisations.
These programs take place in professional training environments using industry-standard equipment, allowing students to gain authentic trade and career skills.
Training areas may include:
- Automotive Electrotechnology Hospitality
- Animal studies
- Plumbing
- Healthcare Hair and Beauty Early Childhood Education Information Technology
- And many more………
3. School-Based Apprenticeships & Traineeships
Students in Years 10-12 can take the next step by beginning a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT).
This unique pathway allows students to combine school, paid employment, and formal training.
Students can:
- Work part-time with an employer
- Earn while they learn
- Complete nationally recognised qualifications
- Gain real industry experience
Many students complete a large portion of their apprenticeship while still at school, often moving straight into full-time employment after graduation.
4. Other VET Opportunities
Students may also have the opportunity to complete additional industry certifications that increase employability, including:
- Construction White Card
- Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)
- First Aid
- Other industry-specific workplace qualifications
These certifications allow students to enter the workforce with credentials employers are looking for.
Supporting every pathway to success
At Southern Cross Catholic College, we are committed to supporting every student in exploring and achieving their career goals. Whether a student chooses to study on-campus VET courses, undertake off-campus programs through providers such as TAFE Queensland, Major Training and Mater Education, or pursue a school-based traineeship or apprenticeship, the College provides guidance, resources, and structured support every step of the way.
We assist students in:
- Planning their pathway through the SET Plan process, ensuring they choose programs that match their interests and career goals.
- Accessing opportunities by advertising available traineeships, apprenticeships, and courses via Microsoft Teams, email, Careers Noticeboard and Pathways Newsletter
- Navigating applications and enrolment, making it straightforward to apply for VET programs, short courses like RSA or White Card, and external training providers.
- Balancing school and work commitments, helping students complete or partially complete qualifications while still achieving their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).
- Staying informed through the fortnightly campus newsletter, which highlights new courses, industry opportunities, and updates for all VET pathways.
Through this comprehensive support, students are empowered to explore multiple pathways, gain nationally recognised qualifications, and graduate ready for further study, apprenticeships, or employment.
These qualifications contribute towards the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) while giving students valuable industry knowledge and skills.