General News
3 January, 2026
EDUCATION CELEBRATION: Diverse paths beyond school
AS THE school year draws to a close, students across the Loddon region are celebrating the end of an important chapter, marking the completion of 13 years of schooling and the beginning of new opportunities ahead.
AS THE school year draws to a close, students across the Loddon region are celebrating the end of an important chapter, marking the completion of 13 years of schooling and the beginning of new opportunities ahead.
The North Central LLEN congratulates this year’s Year 12 students on their achievements, acknowledging the dedication, resilience and growth shown by young people across the region.
Students from the four Loddon secondary schools completed their studies through a range of pathways, including the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), the VCE Vocational Major (VM) and the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC), reflecting the increasingly diverse ways young people are preparing for life beyond school.
For many, the final years of secondary education included hands-on learning through Vocational Education and Training (VET).
This year, 70 Loddon students attended the North Central Trade Training Centre, choosing from industry-based subjects including agriculture, allied health, animal care, automotive, building and construction, hospitality, engineering, beauty services and sport and recreation. These programs allowed students to gain practical, job-ready skills alongside their classroom learning.
A further 16 students took part in Head Start School-Based Apprenticeships or Traineeships, combining paid employment with their studies while working towards nationally recognised qualifications.
These experiences have already opened doors, with several students continuing on to full-time apprenticeships or traineeships in their chosen fields.
North Central LLEN Chief Executive Officer Jane Hosking said the range of pathways now available reflects the reality that no two young people are the same.
“Gone are the days when a degree was the only ticket to success,” Ms Hosking said.
“We’re seeing students explore vocational training, apprenticeships and traineeships that allow them to build a strong pathway into priority industries based on their strengths and aspirations.”
She said many employers continue to place strong value on vocational education, as it provides practical experience, industry exposure and a solid foundation of employability skills.
The North Central LLEN would also like to thank the many local employers who supported students throughout the year by offering work experience, structured workplace learning placements, school-based apprenticeships, as well as sharing their skills and passion to help young people learn more about the world of work and the diverse range of career opportunities before them.
As these young people take their next steps beyond school, they do so equipped with skills, experience and a growing sense of purpose. Whether their path leads to further study, training or straight into the workforce, their journeys are just beginning, and their energy, creativity and ambition will help shape a strong and thriving future for the Loddon region.