The new Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE)
Courses
Typically, schools will offer between 20 and 40 courses, as they do now. They will select these courses to meet the interests and needs of their students.
The new courses will:
- build on content of previous subjects and programs
- ensure that WA students are able to study similar courses to those offered in other parts of Australia
- provide multiple pathways to university, training organisations and eomployment, and
- all count towards university entrance.
Vocational education and training (VET)
With an ongoing skills shortage in Western Australia, VET programs are nore relevant than ever. VET programs enable students to gain work skills and experience.
Students can begin their training while still at school. Options include school-based apprenticeships and traineeships and the School Apprenticeship Link program.
Industry-specific courses are being developed and are based on training package qualifications. They will have optional exams and may provide pathways to university.
Endorsed programs
Endorsed programs provide areas of learning not covered by the courses. They range from workplace learning to units of university study and can contribute up to 50 per cent ot a studen'ts WACE requirements. These programs can be delivered in a variety of settings by community organisations, universities, training organisations and workplaces.
Community service
To be awarded a WACE from 2009, all students will need to have completed 20 hours of community service.
Community service helps students develop leadership skills, social responsibility and citizenship. This requirement can be completed over more than one year.
