Curriculum
Practical senior secondary learning connected to real life and future pathways
Our Curriculum Approach
OakTree College offers practical senior secondary learning that connects classroom learning with everyday life, wellbeing, work readiness and future pathways. Students are supported to build literacy, numeracy, personal development and work related skills through applied learning experiences.
Learning Pathways
Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC)
The Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) is an applied learning program for students in Years 11 and 12 who benefit from a flexible and practical approach to education. Typically completed over a minimum of two years, the VPC supports students to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for further learning, employment and community participation.
Focus Areas:
- Applied learning through practical, real-world experiences.
- Development of literacy, numeracy, personal development, and work-related skills.
- Building confidence, independence and decision-making capabilities.
- Participation in workplace, community and vocational learning opportunities.
- Flexible pathways to employment, apprenticeships, traineeships, VET, TAFE, and further education.
VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM)
The VCE Vocational Major is a practical and applied learning program within the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). Typically completed over a minimum of two years, it prepares students for employment, apprenticeships, traineeships, further training and higher education. VCE VM is aligned to AQF Level 1.
Focus Areas:
- Learning through practical, real-world experiences and projects.
- Developing literacy, numeracy, employability and personal development skills.
- Building confidence, teamwork, communication and problem-solving capabilities.
- Completing Vocational Education and Training (VET) studies and workplace learning opportunities.
- Creating pathways to apprenticeships, traineeships, employment, TAFE and university.
Core Learning Areas
Our curriculum is built on four essential learning areas that prepare students for success in life and work.
Literacy
Reading and writing, communication, forms and workplace language. Students develop practical communication skills for everyday life and future employment.
Numeracy
Money, time, measurement, planning, budgeting, travel and practical problem solving. Students build confidence with numbers and practical mathematical skills.
Personal Development Skills
Confidence, wellbeing, teamwork, community participation, communication, relationships and self management. Students develop social and emotional skills.
Work Related Skills
Job readiness, safety, resumes, interviews, workplace expectations, punctuality and communication. Students prepare for employment and training.
VET & VDSS Partnerships
Students access VET or VDSS opportunities through external providers. These opportunities help students explore interests, build practical skills and connect learning with future study, training and employment pathways.
Our partnerships with external providers enable students to gain recognised qualifications and real-world experience in their areas of interest.
Student Life & Electives
VPC ELECTIVES
OakTree College offers VPC Electives to provide students with opportunities to develop practical skills, explore their interests, and prepare for future pathways:
- Music
- Food Studies
- Digital Literacy
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Students also participate in a range of activities that enrich their learning experience, including:
- Excursions that connect classroom learning with real-world experiences
- Guest speakers who share industry knowledge and personal career journeys
- Career expos that help students explore future education, training, and employment pathways
- Sport and recreation activities that promote health, teamwork, and wellbeing
- Community projects that encourage active citizenship and social responsibility
- Student voice initiatives that empower students to contribute to school decision-making
PRESENTATION NIGHT
- Celebrates the progress, achievements, and personal growth of every student
- Recognises academic success, effort, leadership, and community contribution
- Brings together students, families, and staff to acknowledge accomplishments throughout the year
These activities help students build confidence, explore their interests, develop new skills, and connect with their peers in a supportive and inclusive environment. Student voice and choice are central to our approach to student life and electives.
Assessment & Outcomes
Recognition of Achievement
Students receive recognition for their achievements through certificates, statements of attainment, and completion records.
Practical Assessment
Assessments are aligned with VCAA requirements and uses a range of formal and informal assessment methods to monitor student progress and achievement. Regular formative assessment provides feedback to support learning, while practical tasks, projects, presentations, and other assessment activities allow students to demonstrate their skills and knowledge. Students are provided with multiple opportunities to achieve learning outcomes and demonstrate their progress throughout the year.
Pathways Planning
Assessment outcomes inform ongoing pathways planning and support students to make informed decisions about their future.
Ready to Begin Your Learning Journey?
Join OakTree College and discover a supportive learning environment where you can build practical skills, confidence and connections for your future.