RSC — Life After School

Your Options After Year 12

The end of Year 12 is the beginning of something new. Whatever pathway you are on, Rochester Secondary College is committed to ensuring you leave school prepared for the next step with clarity, confidence and genuine options.

University

University study is available to students completing VCE, VCE VM and even Head Start students, through a variety of pathways. While most competitive university courses use ATAR for initial selection, many also offer alternative entry pathways.

ATAR-Based Entry

VCE students who achieve an ATAR can apply to university through VTAC. ATAR cut-offs vary by course and institution and change each year based on applicant competition. Students should research current ATARs for their courses of interest at vtac.edu.au.

Non-ATAR University Pathways

  • Portfolio entry: for creative and design programs
  • Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS): for students facing disadvantage
  • TAFE Diploma to Degree: complete a Diploma at TAFE, then transfer to a related university degree (often Year 2)
  • Mature-age entry: for students returning to study after working
  • Direct VET credit: some VET qualifications provide university credit or alternative entry

TAFE and Further Education

TAFE (Technical and Further Education) provides certificate, diploma and advanced diploma programs in a vast range of industries. TAFE study is an excellent pathway for students completing VCE VM, Head Start or VCE — and in many cases, TAFE qualifications lead directly to university study through pathway arrangements. Students interested in specific TAFE programs should speak with Wendy McKenzie about current program offerings, entry requirements and campus options in our region.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships

Trade apprenticeships and traineeships provide a paid, structured pathway into a skilled occupation. Students typically enter apprenticeships directly from school (or through Head Start) with an employer registered with the relevant State Training Authority. Most apprenticeships take 3–4 years to complete and result in a Certificate III or IV qualification. In-demand trades in the Loddon Campaspe region and beyond include: electrical, plumbing, carpentry and joinery, automotive, agriculture, nursing (traineeship), hospitality (traineeship), childcare (traineeship) and many more. Wendy McKenzie can assist students to identify relevant employers and pathways.

Employment

Direct employment after Year 12 is a genuine and respected choice. Many students, particularly those completing VCE VM or Head Start, transition directly into the workforce with qualifications, work experience and professional references already in place. Students who have built strong vocational experience through Head Start or VET are often well ahead of other Year 12 completers in terms of real-world employability.

CHES — Higher Education Studies

Rochester Secondary College participates in the Higher Education Studies (CHES) program, which allows Year 12 students to enrol in a first-year university subject while still completing their VCE. Students who successfully complete a CHES subject receive both VCE unit credit and university credit, which can be counted toward a degree if they enrol in that university in the future.

CHES is an outstanding opportunity for capable students. It is also excellent evidence of academic readiness for university admissions processes. Ask Wendy McKenzie for the current list of CHES partners and subjects available to Rochester Secondary College students.