Celebrating vocational milestones not only validates the hard work and dedication of young people undertaking the Vocational Major (formerly VCAL), but also highlights the value of hands-on, skill-based learning.

Annual award ceremonies are organised annually by three Local Learning and Employment Networks (LLENs)—Inner Eastern LLEN, FMPLLEN, and Hume Whittlesea LLEN—with the common goal of celebrating vocational achievement and recognising the value of industry partnerships

Vocational Education is Critical for Addressing Australia’s Workforce Shortages

In a post-COVID world, the economic landscape is shifting, and the demand for vocational skills is on the rise. Employment forecasts predict a 40% growth in occupations requiring a VET qualification over the next 15 years. These roles are less likely to be disrupted by technological changes and are in sectors like personal care, early childhood care, and trades like plumbing and electrical work.

However, despite the growing demand for vocational skills, there is a widespread bias towards university education. This bias can sometimes be reinforced by school staff and parents and is also reflected in the declining enrolment numbers in VET courses. Recognising and celebrating vocational achievements through annual awards can serve as a powerful motivator for students, elevating the profile of vocational education and making it more visible and valued within the community.

These awards not only honour the hard work and dedication of students but also serve to recognise industry partnerships, thereby fostering a collaborative environment that is crucial for the development of a skilled workforce. By doing so, vocational awards play a pivotal role in addressing Australia’s industry workforce shortages, ensuring that the education system is aligned with the needs of the modern economy.

Elevating the Profile of Vocational Education

The awards also serve to elevate the profile of vocational education, making it more visible and valued within the community. They act as a public endorsement of the importance of vocational pathways, thereby encouraging more students to consider these as viable and rewarding options for their future.

A Nuanced Approach to Recognition

The various categories of awards, such as Excellence, Encouragement, and Innovation, offer a nuanced approach to recognising different kinds of achievements and contributions. This is crucial for fostering a more inclusive educational environment, where every student’s unique skills and challenges are acknowledged and celebrated.

“I was pretty rewarding to say that my hard work is paid off and that it’s it’s been reciprocated. And people have seen that I’ve done well.” – Student award recipient

Recognising Industry Partnerships

In addition to celebrating the achievements of students, these awards also serve as a platform to recognise the invaluable contributions of industry partners. Their commitment to providing quality workplace learning opportunities complements vocational studies and enriches the overall educational experience for students.

Hume Whittlesea LLEN Vocational Education Awards

The Hume Whittlesea LLEN held its Vocational Education Awards last year, attended by over 450 people. The event recognised students for their achievements in vocational education and hands-on learning. Nicky Leitch, former EO of Hume Whittlesea LLEN, emphasised, “It’s really important to have vocational awards, because vocational pathways are as important as academic pathways. And not everyone is an academic learner; everyone learns differently.”

Hands-on learning in vocational education is really important, particularly as we look forward to the world of work.”

According to Nicky, the awards also play an important role in lifting the status of vocational education in communities and families: “it’s about showcasing the importance of vocational education pathways to our community, and most importantly, our parents.”

In 2022, a total of 110 awards were given out in both the achievement and encouragement categories.

Two special scholarships from AMWU awarded to young women pursuing trades. The awards were sponsored by the AMWU (Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union) and presented by Courteney Munn, Careers for Women in Trades Project Officer. These scholarships specifically recognise the achievements of young women excelling in vocational trades courses, marking an important step in breaking down traditional gender barriers in vocational fields and encouraging more young women to consider careers in trades.

FMPLLEN PAL Awards (formerly VCAL Awards)

The Frankston Mornington Peninsula LLEN hosts the VCAL Awards to celebrate the achievements of students, schools, and industry partners in the Applied Learning field. The award categories include Student Excellence, Student Achievement, and Student Innovation. Schools can also nominate for the ‘School Best Practice’ award, highlighting their applied learning programmes.

Inner Eastern LLEN Annual Recognition Awards

The Inner Eastern LLEN has been hosting an annual awards event since 2014. Andrew Neophytou, CEO of Inner Eastern LLEN, highlighted, “Our awards have evolved over the years to recognise not just young people and community groups, but also employers who are committed to career development and applied learning.”

In 2022, the IELLEN Annual Recognition Awards acknowledged two employers for their contributions to the career development of young people. One of the awards went to Bruno, the owner of AVFX, for his willingness to give young people opportunities to learn vital skills and support their career development.

The awards are an occasion that not only celebrates vocational skills but also recognises the resilience and determination of students who have overcome significant barriers and hardships.

The annual awards hosted by various LLENs across Victoria play a significant role in recognising and encouraging vocational achievements. They not only validate the students’ hard work but also bring the community together, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits everyone involved.

Do you know someone who deserves an award or recognition for vocational achievement?

Contact us at communications@vicllens.org.au