Queensland school students can undertake nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET) qualifications while they are still at school. VET courses can be undertaken in Years 10, 11 and 12.
Students can undertake VET at school:
- as part of their school studies – delivered and resourced by a school that is also a registered training organisation (RTO)
- by enrolling with an external RTO – funded either by the Queensland Government's VET in Schools program or through fee-for-service arrangements, where fees are paid by an individual such as a student or parent, or another entity such as a community or industry group
- as a school-based apprentice or trainee – funded either by the Queensland Government or fee-for-service arrangements.
Read more information about VET delivered in schools by the Department of Education.
A VET in Schools 2026 list for schools is also available, which includes details of funded qualifications, providers and delivery locations.
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Vocational Education and Training in Schools (VETiS) program in 2026.
VET in Schools 2025
VETiS qualifications funded by the Queensland Government will be listed on the Queensland Subsidised Training List. These qualifications will be delivered by Skills Assure Suppliers (SAS) under VET in Schools.
Students undertaking VETiS can complete one employment stream qualification at the certificate I or II level. Schools, in consultation with students and their parents, are able to choose any SAS approved to deliver the eligible qualification.
Students who wish to undertake a government-funded certificate III qualification should do so through a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship.
VET in Schools 2026
VETiS 2026 will align school-based training with the needs of industry while also creating career pathways for Queensland's secondary students.
Consultation will continue with stakeholders, including schools, to inform development of the VETiS arrangements for 2027 and beyond.
The Department of Trade, Employment and Training's programs for secondary school students in 2026 will include:
- Gateway to Industry Schools program – connecting students at all year levels to targeted industries.
- Piloting Career Tasters – providing immersive experiences for students across various industries in a number of pilot locations.
- School-based apprenticeships and traineeships – will remain the priority VET pathway for students in Years 10, 11 and 12.
- Certificate training – will continue to support students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to undertake a priority certificate I or II level qualification.
Key changes for 2026
- Additional school-based traineeships will be made available in health support services and sampling and measurement.
- Certificate I and II qualifications currently funded for school students will continue. The Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot) will be delivered through a standalone program. This will be developed in consultation with industry to address local workforce requirements.
Related information
- Read the VETiS 2026 program policy.
- Find out how to support your continuing students to complete their training.
- Learn about the VETiS program.
- Find out about becoming a Skills Assure Supplier.
- Learn more about the new SAS framework.
Last updated 29 August 2025
