Year 11 and 12 students at Kennedy have the opportunity to enhance their education by engaging in Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses while still at school. VET students do off campus studies in training organisations such as TAFE and some are required to do work placements. In this issue, we feature Daniel, a Year 11 student enrolled in the Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation at South Metro TAFE:
- So Daniel, what got you interested in your VET course?
I’ve always been a hands-on type of guy and have always been interested in different types of vehicles, so I’m pretty stoked that I’ve got the opportunity to train to become an automotive technician while still completing school. - How long have you been studying this VET course and what happens in a typical day?
I just started this year and the course goes for one year. I do hope to get chosen to do another auto-related course next year. We go through some important content, but we mainly learn through hands on tasks. I was also fortunate enough to get accepted by a host employer so I can do workplace learning during the Semester 1 exam study break. It’s only my first week, but I’m learning a lot from the different supervisors and the tasks given to me at the workshop. - What is the most interesting aspect of training for this VET course?
I have to say it’s the practical skills that we learn in the workshop at TAFE and also here at United Fuel Injection where I’m doing my workplace learning. - What is the most challenging aspect of training for this VET course?
It’s really hard to say because I’m really enjoying myself. I don’t mind the noise, the smell and the dirt at all. I suppose, being in a workplace setting, we get given more responsibilities. We need to be responsible for being on time, for looking after ourselves and others, and for looking after our customers’ vehicles. - How do you manage to juggle between curriculum studies and your VET course?
Time management is very important and I’m still learning. The extra study periods do help me catch up on school work. - Do you have any other comments you’d like to make about the VET delivered to Secondary Students program?
I would recommend the program to anyone who prefers a more hands on approach to learning. If you’re interested in the automotive trades, I would recommend choosing the Cert II in Automotive Vocational Preparation- rotation stream because it’s not too over the top and you get a chance to cover the basics of light automotive, heavy automotive and the electrical sides of the trade.
Interviewed by Mr Ernesto Ramirez
VET and Workplace Learning Coordinator
