Vocational Education Training (VET) are practical courses which help senior students get workplace training, and marks towards their ATAR. In 2025, Newington students performed outstandingly well in VET subjects, and our Head of Careers and VET, Mr Stephen Roberts, was named a finalist at the 2026 NSW Training Awards. Here Mr Roberts explains how VET pathways balance academic success with strong career prospects.

Mr Roberts, how has the reputation and usability of VET subjects changed in recent years?

Enormously and for the better. When I started teaching, VET was often viewed as an alternative pathway for a particular type of student. Now, it’s recognised as a smart, strategic choice, and VET subjects are sophisticated and highly structured, aligned to industry standards to provide real life qualifications.

Why is this shift significant?

Students today don’t have to choose between vocational and academic futures. In 2025, NESA abolished the restriction on Category A and Category B courses which previously limited students to only including one VET subject towards their ATAR. There are no longer any restrictions on the number of VET courses students can choose to go towards their ATAR.

Additionally, with all Certificate III qualifications now contributing to a guaranteed minimum ATAR, students have the increased flexibility to gain a nationally recognised qualification in Year 12 while still positioning themselves for tertiary study.

In 2025 Newington student Max L came First in State in the HSC Construction Examination; Haidar F came Third in State in the HSC Hospitality Examination; Archie F came Third in State in HSC Entertainment Industry Examination and Tyson P came in the Top 20 in the HSC Business Services Examination. What did these exceptional results mean for Newington?

It was a proud moment. These students’ achievements reflect their hard work but also the culture of the department. Our staff expertise has also helped change perceptions. Having current Senior HSC markers within our team reinforces VET subjects are serious, academically credible courses. When you see a student achieve at that level, it confirms that VET is not just an alternative pathway – it’s a pathway to excellence.

When it comes to student choice, are VET subjects about employability or enjoyment?

Both. Students enjoy the practical, applied nature of the learning, but they’re also aware of employability, and are clear about wanting a qualification. Work placements supported through our external partner, The Youth Partnership, give them real-world exposure. They see how what they’re learning connects directly to industry. That pathway, and its relevance, is powerful.

Cohorts change from year to year. How does Newington decide which subjects to offer?

We listen carefully to student interests. As we move towards a fully co-educational model, student voice is becoming even more important. We look at viability, industry demand, and long-term pathways. We’re already seeing interest emerging in areas such as Retail and Sport Coaching. The goal is to remain responsive while maintaining the high quality of delivery that defines the department. The annual Hospitality Dinner Showcase continues to be a VET highlight. It gives Year 11 students hands-on experience while bringing together parents and the wider school community for an engaging and memorable evening.

Did you know?

• In 2025, Newington students excelled in VET subjects Construction, Entertainment, Hospitality and Business Services, with students finishing in the Top 10 in State.
• Additionally, in 2025, three HSC Newington students in 2025 ranked First in State in an HSC subject with a further eight ranking in the Top 10 in State in an HSC subject. Four International Baccalaureate students scored a perfect 45/45 and a further five scored 44/45.
• Newington VET students study a syllabus set by TAFE and NESA. During Years 11 and 12, VET students also complete 70 hours of work placement off campus, once a week each year.

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To discover more about VET and more academic excellence at Newington College, read about our results here. This story originally appeared in our school magazine, The NC here.