Workplace Learning

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Workplace Learning

Workplace Learning

Students need to participate in a variety of workplace learning activities while they are still at school to assist in their development of a realistic understanding of the world of work. These activities can help students to:

  • develop employability skills;
  • explore possible career options;
  • understand employer expectations; and
  • increase their self-understanding, maturity, independence and self-confidence.

Students can undertake workplace learning through work experience, structured workplace learning or a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship.

Latest News - Updates on Work Experience and Structured Workplace Learning

Following the amendments to the Child Employment Act 2003, a new Ministerial Order 382 – Work Experience Arrangements, has been made.  A new Work Experience Arrangement Form has also been developed to accompany the new Order. For more information, see:

Further information about new Work Experience and Structured Workplace Learning arrangement forms and guidelines was made available via a school circular on 1 February, 2011. Please see S019-2011 Updates on Work Experience and Structured Workplace Learning (Word - 41Kb)

Work Experience

Work experience is the short term placement of secondary school students with employers, to provide insights into the industry and the work place in which they are located. Students are placed with employers primarily to observe and learn – not to undertake activities which require extensive training or experience.

For more information, see: Work Experience

Structured Workplace Learning

Structured workplace learning involves students undertaking structured on the job training during which they are expected to master a designated set of skills and competencies related to a course accredited by the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA).

For more information, see: Structured Workplace Learning

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)

Schools are required to adequately prepare students for the risks and hazards they may face in the workplace. The OHS section provides teachers with resources to help prepare students for their placement and includes links to the following programs:

To access the above programs and other OHS resources, see: Occupational Health and Safety Resources

Resources for parents and employers

Information for parents and employers on workplace learning for school students in Victoria is available at: Resources for parents and employers