VOCATIONAL
EDUCATION
AND TRAINING

At Playford International College, we recognise that every student’s journey is unique. Vocational Education and Training (VET) provides students with the opportunity to gain practical, industry-relevant skills while completing their South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE). VET allows students to explore career pathways, develop confidence in real-world settings, and earn nationally recognised qualifications that can lead directly to employment, apprenticeships, or further study.

Through our strong partnerships with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and industry providers, VET is embedded within our curriculum and plays a vital role in supporting positive student outcomes.Through nationally recognised qualifications, students gain the practical skills and knowledge employers value, empowering them to connect their learning with future goals and preparing them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Utilising The Playford Spirit is the true essence of our career program with a dedicated employment transition officer to assist students and families on a journey of discovery through to a fulfilling career. All students have access to our dedicated Employment Transition Officer who aids in individualised pathway planning.

Our VET programs provide students with hands-on learning experiences across a range of growing industries. In 2026, Playford International College is launching an enhanced Automotive Program in partnership with the Motor Trade Association (MTA), giving students direct access to industry-standard training, facilities, and expertise. This improved program strengthens our commitment to providing authentic trade experiences and employment pathways.

Students also have the opportunity to develop their skills in Cookery and Bakery, training in our industry-standard commercial kitchens located on-site. These facilities mirror real-world hospitality environments, allowing students to gain the practical experience and confidence needed for success in the food and hospitality sector.

Beyond Automotive and Hospitality, students can explore a variety of industry areas through our partnership with the Northern Adelaide State Secondary Schools Alliance (NASSSA). This alliance provides access to an extensive range of off-site VET courses, expanding opportunities in fields such as:

All VET courses contribute towards the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), allowing students to earn credits while gaining practical, industry-recognised skills. Generally, every 70 hours of VET training equals 10 SACE credits, with qualifications ranging from Certificate I to Certificate III contributing at Stage 1 or Stage 2 level depending on the course.

For students aiming for university, certain Certificate III qualifications can also contribute to an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) when combined with other Stage 2 subjects. This provides valuable flexibility for students who want to pursue both academic and vocational pathways, or who wish to keep multiple post-school options open.

VET at Playford International College supports a blended approach, allowing students to complete SACE requirements while developing job-ready skills, building connections with industry, and exploring careers that match their interests and strengths.

At Playford International College, we support all students to explore future career options, whether or not they are enrolled in a VET course. Our Careers and VET team works closely with students to arrange meaningful work experience placements across a range of industries.

These opportunities allow students to develop employability skills, understand workplace expectations, and gain insight into potential career pathways. Work experience helps students make informed decisions about their post-school options, including apprenticeships, traineeships, further study, or direct employment.

By connecting classroom learning with real-world experience, we aim to prepare every student for life beyond school and help them build the confidence and skills needed to succeed in their chosen pathway.

Students at Playford International College have the opportunity to undertake a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBA), allowing them to begin their apprenticeship while still completing their SACE. SBAs combine paid employment, vocational training, and school studies, giving students a head start in their chosen industry and a seamless transition into full-time work once school finishes.

Under an SBA, students typically spend one day per week in the workplace and four days at school, though this structure can vary depending on the employer, training requirements, and individual learning plans. This flexible arrangement allows students to continue their general education while developing job-specific skills, earning an income, and gaining nationally recognised qualifications.

SBAs are available across a range of industries — including automotive, construction, hospitality, and community services — and are coordinated through our VET and Careers team in partnership with employers and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).

For more information, please contact our VET and Student Pathways Coordinator Issy Hamblin 

Issy.Hamblin438@schools.sa.edu.au