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Visual Arts (VDSS)
62 Murray Rd, Preston VIC
Telephone. (03) 9478 1333
ncat@education.vic.gov.au

Tag: VDSS

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Visual Arts (VDSS)

Our visual arts and design curriculum features a broad range of disciplines from graphic design, product and visual design to furniture, instrument making, photo imaging, studio and visual arts.

NCAT cultivates a vibrant atmosphere for student exploration and development, guiding artistic and technical skills for further education with tertiary institutions, TAFE institutions or specialist education providers in visual arts and design. Year 10, VCE, Art Immersion Program and VET students benefit from a personalised curriculum tailored to meet individual artistic abilities, incorporating core subjects together with selected visual arts and design disciplines.

Visual Arts (VDSS) enables you to:

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Develop a diverse body of work

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Learn the professional practice of using a visual diary

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Connect with practising artists

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Develop friendships with like-minded peers outside of your school network

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Establish a clear pathway for further study at the Certificate and Diploma levels

Course
Level(s)
Qualification(s)
Visual Arts (VDSS)


VET

Qualification(s):

CUA20725 Certificate II in Visual Arts (VDSS)

Course Structure

Are you ready to take your creativity further? The VET in Schools (VDSS) Visual Arts course offers you the chance to explore and develop your artistic skills while completing a nationally recognised qualification: CUA20720 Certificate II in Visual Arts. Designed for students in Years 10–12, this two-year course runs part-time, with half-day sessions each Wednesday, making it easy to combine with your current studies. You’ll gain hands-on experience in a real studio environment, building confidence, creativity, and a strong foundation for further study.

Art Forms and Projects

Throughout the course, you’ll be guided through a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, drawing, mixed media, and printmaking. Projects are designed to challenge and inspire you, ranging from experimental works and group collaborations to more resolved, exhibition-ready pieces. Visual diaries are a central component, helping you build creative thinking, research skills, and the ability to document your process – essential skills for every aspiring artist.

Excursions and Workshops

Learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. You’ll take part in excursions and workshops that extend your practice beyond the studio, giving you opportunities to experience art in professional settings, expand your technical skills, and deepen your understanding of creative industries. Working with visiting artists also builds confidence in communicating your ideas and gives you insight into how artists establish and sustain their careers.

Pathways and Future Opportunities

This course is also a valuable stepping stone for your future. By completing Certificate II in Visual Arts, you’ll be preparing yourself for progression into NCAT’s full-time Immersion programs in Visual Arts and Design, as well as other creative pathways. Whether you dream of pursuing fine art, illustration, design, or any other creative industry career, this course provides both the practical skills and the professional connections to get you started.

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Make-Up

The SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up targets students who have an interest in make-up and would like to work in the industry.

This qualification reflects the role of individuals employed as make-up artists to design and apply makeup for a range of purposes and occasions across the beauty, fashion, media and entertainment industries. Skills are developed for work in make-up studios/salons, fashion, retail cosmetic counters, fashion and media sets, and photography studios.

Make-Up enables you to:

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Design and apply creative make-up

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Apply eyelash extensions and airbrushed make-up

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Provide salon services to clients

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Work collaboratively on make-up productions

NCAT VCE VM VET in Schools SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up
NCAT VCE VM VET in Schools SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up
NCAT VCE VM VET in Schools SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up
NCAT VCE VM VET in Schools SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up
NCAT VCE VM VET in Schools SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up
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Course
Level(s)
Qualification(s)
Make-Up


VET

Qualification(s):

SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up

Course Structure

This qualification reflects the role of individuals employed as make-up artists to design and apply makeup for a range of purposes and occasions across the beauty, fashion, media and entertainment industries. Skills are developed for work in make-up studios/salons, fashion, retail cosmetic counters, fashion and media sets, and photography studios.

COURSE DELIVERY
Training is over two years for a half a day a week, allowing time for developing the skills and knowledge required for the course.

Two compulsory holiday blocks of training, one in Year 1 and one in Year 2 is compulsory to attend to be able complete the course requirements.

Students are given homework including holiday homework and they practice makeup application on family and friends. They complete consultation forms and take before and after photos. This amounts to 40 extra hours.

Activities & Tasks

The Units of Competency delivered are

Units 1 & 2
SHBBMUP009 Design and apply make-up
SHBBMUP013 Design and apply creative make-up
SHBBRES003 Research and apply beauty industry information
SHBXIND003 Comply with organisational requirements within a personal services environment
SHBXWHS003 Apply safe hygiene, health and work practices
SHBBCCS005 Advise on beauty products and services
SHBBFAS004 Provide lash and brow services

Year 2 Units 3 & 4
SHBXCCS008 Provide salon services to clients
SIRXOSM002 Maintain ethical and professional standards when using social media and online platforms
HLTINF005 Maintain infection prevention for skin penetration treatments
SHBBMUP008 Apply eyelash extensions
SHBBMUP012 Apply airbrushed make-up
SHBBMUP014 Work collaboratively on make-up productions
SIRRMER001 Produce visual merchandise displays
SHBBMUP010 Design and apply make-up for photography

The list gives an idea of the range of activities.

Assessment

The assessment methods for the course include:
• Practical observations including observing role plays
• Short answer questioning
• Written work for a research assignment
• Portfolio of work for design and apply creative make up.
Students receive informal feedback from the teacher in class time

If all course requirements are met, students receive their certificate at the end of the course.
The assessment of overall competence at this certificate level is undertaken by a qualified assessor and competence is judged using the criteria stated in the qualification.
Students will be given a fair and adequate assessment process that includes multiple opportunities to demonstrate competency.

Eligibility & Prerequisites

There are no entry requirements for this course. If you have any individual needs please contact the college to discuss these needs.

Study and Vocational Pathways

The Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy and the Diploma of Beauty Therapy are suitable courses to undertake after completing this certificate III.

With additional training, opportunities include work as a Make-up artists (fashion, beauty, photography and freelance), Beauty Therapists, Make-Up Consultant in a department store or pharmacy and Cosmetic or Beauty Equipment Sales representative.

Application Process

Internal NCAT students make a written application, are interviewed to confirm student choice of course and other subjects. Prior to entry the opportunity is provided to tour the school to see the facilities and there is ample opportunity for students and parents to ask questions about the course. Students must be able to produce their latest two semester reports and show they are working well.

External student entry is managed by the home schools with the VET School coordinators and the NCAT VET Coordinator. A Northern Melbourne VET Cluster portal is used for the application.

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Automotive Technology

Get your hands dirty while learning everything that happens under the bonnet of car and makes them run. Work with cars and start your career in the auto industry buy completing the Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation. Explore career options in the auto industry. Learn how to repair or replace key components of the car so you are job ready by the time you finish the course.

You will be doing all these things in a simulated workplace, but you will also learn to write and talk about them when trying to impress a prospective employer to gain an apprenticeship.

Early career starts are available for VCE and VCE VM students seeking a career in automotive technology. Students can integrate a VET certificate in automotive technology within a VCE or VCE VM syllabus. Practical exercises include removing and replacing cylinder head gaskets, carrying out basic electrical repairs, removing and replacing radiators, repairs to cooling systems, repairs and working on brakes, changing the clutch on a car, removing and refitting transmissions, changing front and rear springs, plus learning many basics and fundamentals of motor vehicle repair and service operation.

Automotive Technology enables you to:

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Remove, repair, or replace car parts.

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Troubleshoot issues and find a solution.

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Work with both mechanical and electrical systems.

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Change wheels and tyres.

The automotive trade is in high demand nationwide. Recent years have seen a shift in industry demand. NCAT has worked closely with the automotive industry and local employers to meet their training needs. A purpose-built automotive workshop encourages sustainable practices; state-of-the-art equipment and a practical, project-based curriculum simulate real world scenarios for hands-on student learning.

TestimonialsMitchell Seath (Automotive Pre-apprenticeship Student)

“I've grown since I've been here. I’m more confident and career-focused and generally happier because I actually see myself going somewhere.”

TestimonialsMitchell Seath (Automotive Pre-apprenticeship Student)

“I was considering it for a year and a half and now I don't know what took me so long. Don’t look back and just do it; honestly, it's changed my life.”

TestimonialsMitchell Seath (Automotive Pre-apprenticeship Student)

“I have a real passion for cars. We learn basic mechanics including the brakes, head gaskets and engines. We learn how to repair all cars.”

TestimonialsMitchell Seath (Automotive Technology Student)

“We do have work experience coming up of which I’ll be going to a local workshop to spend two weeks there - I'll basically be an apprentice during that time.”

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NCAT Automotive Vocational Preparation workshop
NCAT Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation students
Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation VET in School student
Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation VET in School students
Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation VET in School students
Students at Work
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Course
Level(s)
Qualification(s)
Automotive Technology


VET

Qualification(s):

AUR20720 Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation

Course Structure

The Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation provides students with knowledge, skills and competency to increase their employment prospects and future training pathways in the automotive industry. Students receive a nationally recognised certificate and the course helps them make an informed choice entering the automotive industry. This Pre-apprenticeship level course covers competencies at work entry level including basic safety and basic skills and knowledge for work in the automotive sector.

Activities & Tasks

During the course students perform a large variety of the basic repairs employers ask an auto apprentice to carry out.

The course is very hands on but there is some theory and written work for the knowledge component of the qualification. How to complete various types of workplace documentation and how to apply safe work practices are covered.

Assessment

Practical repairs and maintenance tasks assessed by observation and questioning, and written tasks are all assessed using set criteria. Students are given a fair and adequate assessment process that includes multiple opportunities to demonstrate competency. Students are required to undertake a minimum of 80 hours of Structured Workplace Learning.

Eligibility & Prerequisites

It is recommended students have a minimum achievement level of Year 10 Maths and English or equivalent and an aptitude for practical work. If you have any individual needs please contact the college to discuss.

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Electrotechnology

Prepare yourself to gain an apprenticeship or employment by completing a range of project-based tasks. Work in a realistic simulated environment to give you the skills and knowledge, thereby giving you an advantage to get an offer for an apprenticeship; learn to use basic hand and power tools and read circuit diagrams, take electrical measurements and perform electrical calculations. Undertake theoretical and practical tasks linked directly to work done by electricians and technicians.


The electrotechnology trade is in high demand. Recent years have seen a shift in industry and consumer demand for sustainable energy, producing a need for skilled workers across electrical, data communications and similar electrotechnology related fields. NCAT Certificate II in Electrotechnology trainers consult with industry and government reference groups to ensure our curriculum remains consistent with emerging trends. A practical project-based curriculum simulates real world scenarios for hands-on student learning. Students benefit from state-of-the-art equipment and purpose built facilities that demonstrate sustainable practices.

Electrotechnology enables you to:

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Put electrical/electronic theory into practice via projects.

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Conduct safety testing of electrical cord connected equipment.

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Carry out basic network cabling.

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Solve problems in ELV single path circuits.

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Fix and secure Electrotechnology equipment.

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Use a range of hand and power tools.

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Practice wiring and basic installation skills.

Learn to read circuit diagrams. Build electrical devices. Explore alternative energy generation and storage. Work with NCAT ’s wind turbines and solar panel farm.

TestimonialsCarina Gauci (Electrotechnology Student)

“I'm studying to be an electrician. A lot of people would think, “Oh you're a girl, you can't do that.” but then when I show them that I can do it, they second-guess themselves.”

TestimonialsDaniel Knott (Head of Department, Technology)

“It’s our objective, that young people enjoy their education. Then they enjoy their occupation afterwards because whatever they enjoy, whatever they love, they're going to be successful.”

TestimonialsCarina Gauci (Electrotechnology Student)

“I'm studying to be an Electrician and then on Wednesdays, I'm doing an art course. It's both things that I’m really passionate about.”

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NCAT Certificate II In Electrotechnology Student
NCAT's Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Pre-vocational) workshop
NCAT Certificate II in Electrotechnology Trainer
NCAT Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Pre-vocational) workshop
NCAT Certificate II In Electrotechnology VET In School Student
NCAT Certificate II In Electrotechnology VET In School Student
NCAT Certificate II In Electrotechnology VET In School Student
Students at Work
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Course
Level(s)
Qualification(s)
Electrotechnology


VET

Qualification(s):

22682VIC Certificate II in Electrotechnology Studies (Pre-vocational)

Course Structure

The 22682VIC Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Pre-vocational) prepares students to gain an apprenticeship or other employment in the electrotechnology industry. It covers the fundamentals of electrical, telecommunication, refrigeration and air conditioning systems as well as workshop experience in fabrication and assembly techniques, wiring, cabling, basic installation skills and use of test equipment. Workplace safety and first aid training are also included.

It provides an overview of the industry, employment opportunities and training pathways. The training is mainly project based and gives industry relevant hands-on experience in a realistic simulated environment. The course gives you the basic skills to make you job ready. You will learn to use basic hand and power tools and equipment an electrician/technician uses and how to read circuit diagrams, take electrical measurements and perform electrical calculations.

Activities & Tasks

The theoretical and practical training is linked directly to the work electrotechnology related technicians undertake. The course includes: basic electrical/electronic theory; renewable energy concepts and projects (solar and wind); electricmotor theory and practice (motor control); data and network cabling; testing instruments; air-conditioning basics.

Assesment

A combination of project based practical tasks and job briefs assessed by observation and questioning and written tasks and theory tests are all assessed using set criteria. Students are given a fair and adequate assessment process that includes multiple opportunities to demonstrate competency. Students are required to undertake a minimum of 80 hours of Structured Workplace Learning.

Eligibility & Prerequisites

It is recommended students have a minimum sound achievement of Year 10 Maths and English or equivalent and an aptitude for practical work. If you have any individual needs, please contact us to discuss these.

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Engineering Studies

Immerse yourself in a project based, hands on course in engineering. Start your career in an area which has so many specialties for you to choose from.

Balance the design and planning elements with learning how to use industry standard tools in a purpose-built engineering workshop created for this exact purpose. Manage engineering based projects, undertake processes and learn the industry you are about to enter, inside and out.

Early career starts are available for VCE and VCE VM students seeking a career in engineering. Students can integrate a VET Certificate II in Engineering within a VCE or VCAL syllabus. Develop skills in machining, fabrication and the safe use of power tools. Use computer controlled lathes (CNC), lasers, and computer aided drafting (CAD) to create projects and your own equipment for use in the trade. A major project is completed at the end of the units 3+ 4.

You can read about two NCAT student Certificate II Engineering projects completed here.

Engineering Studies enables you to:

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Develop the skills to work with a range of equipment and tools.

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Produce engineering components.

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Undertake a major product and document the process.

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Make vice soft jaws, a sheet metal tool caddy, centre punch, soft face mallet or an engineer’s square.

Recent years have seen a shift in industry demand for fields such as engineering, manufacturing, automation, control technologies, mechatronics, electrotechnology, robotics, and energy management.

TestimonialsAnh (Kitty) Chau (Engineering Student)

“I want to do architecture when I'm older. At the end of the two-year course, we get a certificate saying that we've completed our engineering studies and it's just something else to add to my portfolio for university or entering the workforce.”

TestimonialsMichael Stapmanns (Engineering Student)

“Thanks to my experience at NCAT I was finally able to decide what direction to take and that engineering was what I wanted to do. My results in this course, thanks to the terrific teachers and learning environment at NCAT, gave my ATAR score a big boost…there was a clear link between theory and practice.”

TestimonialsDaniel Knot (Head of Department, Technology)

“A student can come here for three years: years 10, 11 and 12. They can do between four and five different certificates so that by the end of it they will definitely know what they want to do.”

TestimonialsAnh (Kitty) Chau (Engineering Student)

“Our engineering teacher used to help build and design planes for Boeing and when we found out we asked, “What are you doing here”? He replied, “I come here just for you guys.”

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NCAT Certificate II in Engineering
NCAT Certificate II in Engineering student working
NCAT Certificate II in Engineering trainer and student
NCAT Certificate II in Engineering student
NCAT Engineering Students
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NCAT Certificate II in Engineering
Student working NCAT Certificate II in Engineering workshop
Female student working in NCAT Certificate II in Engineering workshop
Female student working in NCAT Certificate II in Engineering workshop
Female student working in NCAT Certificate II in Engineering workshop
NCAT Engineering Students
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Student working in NCAT Certificate II in Engineering workshop
Course
Level(s)
Qualification(s)
Engineering Studies


VET

Qualification(s):

22632VIC Certificate II in Engineering Studies

Course Structure

NCAT's Certificate II in Engineering is a project-based, hand-on course delivered in a simulated workplace environment in the NCAT Engineering workshop. The course provides students with the skills and knowledge to pursue an apprenticeship in the engineering trades or with a foundation for professional engineering roles. Units 1 & 2 cover areas in computer technology and using hand and power tools.

We deliver a general course including some elective units from fabrication, machining and engineering technical pathways. Units 3 & 4 offers scored assessment and incorporates units such as producing basic engineering sketches and drawings, handling engineering materials, performing computations (for the VCE stream only).

You can read about two NCAT student Certificate II Engineering projects completed here. https://ncat.vic.edu.au/ncat-engineering-studies-student-work/

Activities & Task

Projects made in Engineering Units 1 & 2 include vice soft jaws, sheet metal tool caddy, centre punch, soft face mallet and an engineer’s square. Students doing Engineering Units 3 & 4 are required to construct a major project and document the project in a portfolio.

Assessment

Students wanting a study score for the Certificate II in Engineering can undertake scored assessment. Practical project work is assessed by observation and questioning, written tasks and tests are assessed using set criteria. Students are given a fair and adequate assessment process with multiple opportunities to demonstrate competency. Students must attend 80% of all classes and successfully complete all units of competency to obtain their certificate II qualification.

Students are recommended to undertake a minimum of 80 hours of Structured Workplace Learning.

Eligibility & Prerequisites

Year 9 – 10 basic language, literacy and numeracy levels are desired. If you have any individual needs please contact us to discuss the options available to you.

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Furniture Making

Build beautiful pieces of furniture and gain satisfaction from your work. Work with the industry tools to develop the skills you need to become a Furniture or Cabinet Maker. Across the two years you will gain knowledge in constructing timber products and joints, how to use the hand tools woodworking machines and read plans and job specifications. Develop an eye for design in making a piece of furniture you can be proud of.

The furniture making trade is in high demand nationwide. Recent years have seen a shift in industry and consumer demand for sustainable practices. The use of new technologies, materials and equipment in the industry has created employment opportunities across many areas, from high volume manufacturing to artistic expression and creativity.

NCAT consults with industry and government reference groups to ensure our furniture making curriculum remains consistent with emerging trends. Practical project-based curriculums simulate real world scenarios for hands-on student learning. Purpose built facilities demonstrate sustainable practices furnished with state-of-the-art equipment.

Furniture Making enables you to:

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Develop your critical eye to make a range of products.

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Work with hand, power and static tools.

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Learn the basics before you decide which direction you would like to take your idea.

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Immerse yourself in the design process of making furniture.

As with all good design and creativity, this craft begins with drawing and identifying construction methods and working within constraints. Master the art of hand-cut timber joints using industry standard hand-tools, power-tools and multi-cam computer controlled cutters.

TestimonialsJarman Lawrence (Furniture Making Student)

“My grandpa was a carpenter for a long time. He used to take me out into the shed and go come have a look at this thing I made from then on I kind of wanted to do something like that.”

TestimonialsTony Nanngerd (Furniture Making Student)

“You have to get a white card to be able to use equipment and get into a workforce.”

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NCAT Students in the Certificate II in Furniture Making workshop
NCAT Students in the Certificate II in Furniture Making workshop
NCAT Students in the Certificate II in Furniture Making workshop
NCAT Students in the Certificate II in Furniture Making workshop
NCAT Students in the Certificate II in Furniture Making workshop
NCAT Students in the Certificate II in Furniture Making workshop
Students at Work
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Course
Level(s)
Qualification(s)
Furniture Making


VET

Qualification(s):

MSF20522 Certificate II in Furniture Making Pathways

Course Structure

The Certificate II In Furniture Making Pathways is designed for people interested in a career in furnishing, cabinet making or related working environment. Students learn and develop a range of skills and knowledge including furniture assembly, joinery and preparation of surfaces which can help get entry into an apprenticeship. This is a project- based, hand-on course delivered in a simulated workplace environment in a fully-equipped workshop.

Activities & Tasks

The Certificate II In Furniture Making Pathways course covers construction of furniture products using a variety of materials, a range of hand and power tools, surface preparation, general joinery techniques and assembly of various components such as drawers, leg and rail, tops or carcass. Safety, industry standards, job specifications, reading plans, measurements and calculations are competencies relating to communication and teamwork skills and are vital to produce a successful product.

Assessment

Assessment is mainly by observation of skills and some written work and assignments. The assessment of your overall competence at this certificate level will be undertaken by a qualified assessor and your competence judged using the criteria stated in the qualification.

Students will be given a fair and adequate assessment process that includes multiple opportunities to demonstrate competency.

Eligibility & Prerequisites

A minimum sound achievement of Year 10 Maths and English or equivalent and an aptitude for practical work is recommended. If you have individual needs, please contact the college to discuss.

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Sports, Aquatics and Recreation

Jump into your career as a coach or fitness instructor within your favourite area of sport by enrolling in SIS30122 Certificate III in Sports, Aquatics and Recreation. Train, coach and instruct others in a variety of sports and develop your own fitness as you participate in a range of sports as you are trained by fellow students.

Students develop their leadership skills and knowledge to safely and effectively plan, conduct, officiate, coach and participate in a range of sport and recreation sessions. These may include volleyball, Australian Rules football, soccer, indoor hockey, indoor cricket, netball, basketball, fitness circuits etc. Learn about current First Aid and OHS practices so you are ready to enter the industry as soon as you are done.

Sports, Aquatics and Recreation enables you to:

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Assist in preparing and conducting sport and recreation sessions.

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Undertake additional training and experience to pursue a range of career opportunities such as fitness instructor, sports masseuse and leisure/recreation officer.

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Apply first aid.

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Instruct and monitor fitness programs.

The Sport Leadership program is suited to students who enjoy an applied learning context. Students in this program will participate in active, hands-on sports education, wholly focussed around Sport. Within the program students cover all of their numeracy skills and literacy skills by reading, writing and speaking to sport related themes.

Course
Level(s)
Qualification(s)
Sports, Aquatics and Recreation


VET

Qualification(s):

SIS30122 Certificate III in Sports, Aquatics and Recreation

Course Structure

The SIS30122 Certificate III in Sports, Aquatics and Recreation is for year 10-12 students aspiring to study and work in the sport and recreation industry. Students develop the leadership skills and knowledge to safely and effectively plan, conduct, officiate, coach and participate in a range of sport and recreation sessions. These may include: volleyball, Australian Rules football, soccer, indoor hockey, indoor cricket, netball, basketball, fitness circuits etc.

All new first year enrolments for Sport and Recreation in 2024 will be for the new SIS30122 Certificate III in Sport Aquatics and Recreation unless we receive advice otherwise from the VCAA.

Activities & Tasks

Planning, coaching and officiating a range of sport and recreation sessions. Instructing a group fitness workout to improve individuals' fitness levels. Plan and conduct educational programs. Participating in strength and conditioning programs for specific sports and general fitness. First aid certificate.

Assessment

The assessment involves a variety of methods including practical observations of work performance and evidencing written questions. The assessment of overall competence will be undertaken by a qualified assessor and students’ competence judged using all of the qualification’s criteria.

Students will be given a fair and adequate assessment process that includes multiple opportunities to demonstrate competency.

This certificate offers a study score in Year 12 through scored assessment. The score can contribute directly to the ATAR as one of a student's primary four scaled studies or as the fifth or sixth study.

Eligibility & Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites.

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Art Immersion

Art Immersion is a full-time immersive art and design program for students in years 11 and 12. Students spend four days a week in professional studio environments, developing both creative skills and industry knowledge through hands-on practice. In Year 11, students build foundational skills across multiple artistic mediums before choosing to specialise in either Visual Arts Immersion or Photography Immersion for Year 12. Graduates earn both VCE completion and Certificate III in Visual Arts, with many also completing additional industry qualifications through our flexible Wednesday VET programs.


Our graduates often progress directly to NCAT's own Certificate IV programs, gain entry to prestigious institutions including RMIT, VCA and Swinburne, or pursue alternative routes such as TAFE-to-university pathways and industry apprenticeships. Our comprehensive portfolio development and industry-standard training ensure students have the creative evidence and professional presentation skills that tertiary institutions and employers value.

Art Immersion enables you to:

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Study art and design full-time whilst completing your secondary schooling

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Develop skills in drawing, painting, sculpture and photography

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Work one-on-one with mentors who help you communicate your ideas and achieve your creative potential

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Develop confidence; identify and use your individual strengths

Students develop extensive skills and knowledge in painting, drawing, sculpture, photography and design; which they then apply to independent and group projects. We maintain close relationships with designers and artists working across diverse creative fields; established practitioners work directly alongside students in our studios. These connections ensure students graduate with both technical skills and comprehensive industry knowledge. Our students work in industry-standard facilities from traditional ateliers to fully equipped darkrooms and photography studios, with access to technology including laser cutting and 3D printing equipment.

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Student Work
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During the iconic ‘Fashion Fortnight’ project, year twelve students collaborate to design and create wearable artworks which are then styled and photographed in our professional studios. This is an exciting and challenging project where students develop leadership and teamwork skills in a creative setting.

Fashion Fortnight
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Fashion Fortnight
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Couch Fest
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At our annual Couch Fest arts festival, students gain real entrepreneurial experience by running their own creative businesses, while the entire NCAT community – families, staff, and friends – gathers to support their ventures with genuine enthusiasm and pride in their achievements.

TestimonialsAbbey Baggio (Visual Arts Immersion Student)

“My last year at NCAT was a year full of self discovery. Finding out who I am as an artist has been such a positive journey; I’ve had so much fun learning about my strengths and weaknesses and truly just discovering what I’m passionate about.”

TestimonialsAbbey Baggio (Visual Arts Immersion Student)

“My art is a positive outlet for me and it has allowed me to discover such life-changing confidence within myself. This whole journey has changed me in the most lovely way and I’m so grateful and ready to create and trust myself with everything I create in the future.
”

TestimonialsLeon Alasso (Visual Arts Immersion Student)

“I truly appreciate the opportunity I had to experience a more progressive environment. During my time in the Visual Arts Immersion program I got lots of support and great encouragement to try new things and it really pushed me to discover how I could make a career though art.”

TestimonialsSarah Moss (Visual Arts Immersion Student)

“My time at NCAT is something I will never forget. Through encouragement from my teachers, I progressed faster than I could have imagined. The Visual Arts Immersion program taught me a positive work ethic, to embrace my creativity and to explore all the different mediums and pathways available.”

TestimonialsSarah Moss (Visual Arts Immersion Student)

“Since leaving NCAT, I have gone on to start my own business in the film and television industry; freelancing as a makeup artist for advertisements, feature films and television shows. I am currently working full-time in the Hair and Makeup Department of long-running Australian television show, Neighbours.”

TestimonialsSarah Moss (Visual Arts Immersion Student)

“NCAT will always feel like home for me, and I will always be thankful for the uplifting advice I constantly received from my teachers - pushing me in the right direction while giving me the space to improve myself self-sufficiently.
”

TestimonialsSam Larsen (Visual Arts Immersion Student)

“I’m currently studying a Diploma of Interior Design and Decoration at RMIT and I wouldn’t be here without the incredible knowledge and support from all of the teachers that had a hand in my education. I can never speak highly enough about the opportunities I’ve been given and I recommend it to any creative inspired person who wants to excel in their area.
”

TestimonialsNatasha Stamos (Media Teacher)

“Within the Visual Arts umbrella we also have the Arts Immersion program which is a vocational learning program where students are in a studio environment for four days a week. They also get all their literacy and numeracy through that.
”

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Course
Level(s)
Qualification(s)
Art Immersion


Year 11: VCE VM
Year 12: VCE VM

Qualification(s):

CUA20720 Certificate II in Visual Arts
CUA31125 Certificate III in Visual Arts

Course Structure

Our two-program is structured to support both creative exploration and professional specialisation, allowing students to develop genuine expertise while completing their secondary education. Our curriculum structure, using VCE VM and VET units is deliberately chosen for these units' flexibility and application to applied creative learning. Students graduate with both VCE completion and Certificate III in Visual Arts, with many also completing additional qualifications through our Wednesday VET offerings.

Studio Practice

Individual artistic development through personalised mentoring and targeted projects in students' preferred media. This subject emphasises meaningful artistic themes as students create substantial portfolio works over two 3.5-hour weekly sessions. This extended timeframe allows sustained creative immersion, enabling students to master design processes for independent practice and ultimately exhibit their work in professional gallery settings.

Workshops

Full-day technical sessions building skills in drawing, painting, and photography. Each workshop has a specific focus and begins with relevant art history and theory, then trialling materials and techniques and applying these to an extended artwork. Structured and intensive development ensures students build comprehensive skills and knowledge from foundational techniques to advanced practice.

Creative Enterprise

Students use design thinking to develop and manufacture products using both digital technology (laser cutting, 3D printing and design software) and traditional craft techniques. They progress from guided development in Year 11 to running independent businesses in Year 12, researching the market and selling work at our annual Couch Fest arts festival.

Art & Industry

Through hands-on projects, students explore careers in character design, games design, and illustration while learning from industry professionals. They create professional texts including websites, resumes, portfolios, and artist statements, developing essential tools for arts careers and further study. Artist talks and written reflections build presentation and critical analysis skills, ensuring graduates have creative direction and strong verbal and written communication abilities.