Federation College
Cnr Grant and Moyle Streets
Ballarat VIC 3350
Why choose Federation College?
We do things differently
If you’re 16–19 and mainstream school just hasn’t worked out, it might be time to consider Federation College. There's no uniform, no bells, no exams – just dedicated teachers and extra support so you can complete VCE Vocational Major (VM) stress free. Whether you’re starting Year 11 or finishing Year 12, we’ll help you build your confidence, discover what you’re good at and figure out what comes next.
Federation College offers pathways into:
- further study (TAFE, higher education)
- vocational training
- apprenticeships and traineeships
- employment
- developing the skills and capabilities needed for adult life.
Where you'll study
We'd love to show you around
How VCE Vocational Major is structured
VCE VM is a two‑year program that focuses on applied learning. It helps you build practical skills for work and life, with real hands-on experience across one or more industries. Assessments are completed in class, so the only exam you’ll sit is Part A of the General Achievement Test (GAT). Keep in mind that VCE VM subjects don't receive study scores and won’t contribute to an ATAR.
To complete the program, you need to successfully finish at least 16 units, including from core learning areas:
- 3 literacy units (either VCE VM literacy or VCE English, including a unit 3/4
sequence) - 2 numeracy units (either VCE VM numeracy or VCE maths)
- 2 work-related skills units (VCE VM)
- 2 personal development skills units (VCE VM)
- 3 other unit 3/4 sequences of choice (6 units total)
- 180 hours of VET subjects at Certificate II level or above (1 unit).
As well as your units, you'll have the opportunity to get creative with art and ceramics, join in our music program, or take part in cooking and fitness activities. If you’re interested in technology, you’ll have the chance to explore drones, robotics and 3D printing. We also offer excursions that connect your learning to real-world experiences. Our Aboriginal Education Centre runs lunchtime programs that celebrate culture, community and connection.
When you finish, you’ll receive a VCE VM certificate from the Department of Education, plus a statement of attainment for your VET units. These are recognised across Australia and can open doors to study, training and work.
Download the Federation College Handbook (PDF 1.2 MB) to find out more about how VCE VM works.
Core units
Develop essential reading, writing, speaking and comprehension skills. Work with real-world texts like job applications, reports and presentations and learn to communicate effectively in any setting. The class covers:
- texts for personal expression and entertainment
- employment-related texts
- persuasive speaking and writing
- literacy for life.
Learn practical maths skills that matter in everyday life, such as budgeting, interpreting data, managing finances and understanding statistics. The class covers:
- design
- measurement
- time
- money
- location
- interpreting data
- numerical information
- formulas.
Get ready for the workforce through career planning, occupational health and safety (OHS) training, teamwork exercise and project-based learning that simulates real job environments. The class covers:
- mock interviews
- resume writing
- work experience
- trade tasters
- work preparation.
Focus on self-growth through community projects, leadership activities and initiatives that promote social responsibility and personal resilience. The class covers:
- self-awareness
- health and wellbeing
- personal growth
- social and community awareness.
Think Federation College might be for you?
We're here to help you succeed
If you're enrolled in VCE Vocational Major, you get access to all the standard Federation University student services, including wellbeing support and academic help.
Student wellbeing and progress
2025 completions: 47
2025 completion rate: 69.1%
Total enrolments: 72
Units 1 & 2 (Yr 11) enrolments: 45
Units 3 & 4 (Yr 12) enrolments: 27
Continuing from 2024: 20
Improved employment status after training: 27.3%*
Achieved main reason for training: 73.3%*
Went on to further study at a higher level: 27.3%*
Qualification part-completers that were employed after training: 73.9%**
Qualification completers that were employed after training: 80.1%**
*TAFE Network Student Satisfaction Survey Results 2025, Victorian Skills Authority
**NCVER 2024 National Student Outcomes Survey (data reflects outcomes for Federation TAFE overall, not VCE Vocational Major students specifically)
Federation College is dedicated to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. We follow the Victorian Child Safe Standards and the Reportable Conduct Scheme to prevent and respond to child abuse.
We have a zero-tolerance policy for child abuse and work to raise awareness about child safety in our community. Our Child Safe Procedure and Federation College Child Safe Code of Conduct helps us protect children from physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse and neglect.
We make sure everyone understands the difference between appropriate and inappropriate behaviour with children. Clear boundaries are maintained between children and staff, volunteers and the community.
We promote cultural safety for Aboriginal children, children from diverse backgrounds and children with disabilities. We value diversity and do not tolerate discrimination.
Our staff receive ongoing training to recognise and respond to abuse and neglect. We educate children about their right to be safe and encourage them to speak up if they feel unsafe.
As educators, we listen to and support children, ensuring their safety is reflected in our policies and procedures.