At Como Secondary College, students have the opportunity to pursue Vocational Education and Training (VET) pathways that provide them with valuable, industry-recognised qualifications while completing their secondary education. On campus, we offer a range of programs including a Certificate II in Sport Coaching (RTO), a Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation (RTO)—where students also gain a Skipper’s Ticket, Bronze Medallion, and First Aid certification—and a Certificate III in Music (RTO).
Students are also able to complete a General pathway in combination with a School Based Traineeship (SBT) or Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS). A wide variety of qualifications are offered by TAFE and private Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). Students have the opportunity to take on varied pathways in upper school through certificate courses with the RTOs, IVET and COSAMP. Students attend off site training one or two days a week. This may involve paid work experience (SBT). These pathways allow students to develop practical skills in real-world industries while building a strong foundation for future study and careers. SCSA will recognise achievement of VET qualifications in the WACE.
SBTs and VETDSS are offered in classes consisting only of school age students, ensuring a supportive environment while providing access to the full resources and facilities of TAFE.
In addition, we offer Endorsed Programs such as Employment Advantage and Developing Social Skills, which contribute towards the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE). Students who excel in or represent sport at a state level can also apply to receive WACE recognition through an Endorsed Program.
Our commitment to supporting all learners is reflected in opportunities such as the Aboriginal School-Based Traineeship (ASBT), providing First Nations Australian students with valuable workplace experience and qualifications.
The school also considers applications for Authority-Developed Workplace Learning, assessed on an individual basis by the Deputy Principal. Students can additionally receive a WACE point by completing a program of community service and compiling a personal portfolio, recognising their commitment to personal growth and civic engagement.
Through collaboration with the Humanities and Social Sciences Department, the college also offers access to the Curtin UniReady Program, an alternative pathway into university through a General course pathway, which develops essential university skills and provides students with an ATAR equivalent of 70 and English competence, opening up direct pathways into a range of university courses.
Additionally, in combination with the Humanities and Social Sciences Department, we deliver Year 11 and 12 Careers and Employability where students explore their skills and interests to develop career pathway planning for life beyond school. This includes vital skillsets such as resume writing, job interview preparation and developing transition plans.
By combining hands-on learning, recognised qualifications, and an alternative university pathway, Como Secondary College’s VET programs empower students to explore their passions, gain industry experience, and open doors to exciting career and further study opportunities all while achieving their secondary education goals.
Feature image Ayush G Year 11 Photography General
