Goal: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to explain what VET is, who it serves, and why it plays a key role in preparing people for real jobs.
Let’s start with a story:
Maya is 27. She didn’t finish high school, but she’s great at fixing things. After years of working small jobs, she joins a short course in auto mechanics. The course is practical, hands-on, and focused on real skills. Three months later, Maya lands a job in a garage—and loves it.
What helped Maya get there? A VET program.
What is VET?
VET stands for Vocational Education and Training. It’s a type of learning that helps people gain the skills needed for a specific job or trade. Unlike academic education, which often focuses on theory, VET is:
- practical and job-focused
- based on real-world skills
- designed to prepare people for the workplace
You’ll find VET programs in areas like:
- healthcare,
- IT,
- construction,
- hospitality,
- mechanics.
These programs are offered by vocational schools, technical colleges, and training centres. Some even take place directly at workplaces.
Who is VET for?
VET is open to:
- young people finishing school
- adults who want to upskill or retrain
- job seekers
- people returning to work after a break
- migrants starting a new life
- employees looking to grow professionally
Everyone has different goals, and VET supports that flexibility.
Why does VET matter?
VET creates pathways to employment. It gives people the confidence, skills, and experience they need to succeed in their chosen field. Most programs include internships or practical work, so learners can apply what they learn immediately.
It also supports lifelong learning. In today’s fast-changing world, many people change careers more than once. VET makes that easier.
Reflection Task
Think about someone you know (or yourself) who took a non-traditional path to a job. How did practical training help them? What difference did it make?