Vocational education and training refers to appropriately accredited and industry specific entry level training programs that deliver competencies endorsed within the National Training Framework and certification of industry accredited training aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework.

Vocational learning is general learning that has a vocational perspective. Vocational learning in NSW schools is directed towards the development of generic work-related competencies and skills including elements such as enterprise education, career education and community based learning. Vocational learning in the curriculum aims to build an awareness of the work people do and helps to promote the message that work, education and training are inter-related aspects of life ahead. All students should experience vocational learning at each year level throughout their schooling.

In NSW structured workplace learning serves a variety of purposes, most but not all of which conform to the MCEETYA Taskforce definitions.

In the compulsory years of schooling, workplace learning is described as work experience. Work experience programs provide an orientation to the world of work without a planned program of industry recognised skill development. In the post compulsory years, structured workplace learning is more commonly known as work placement in NSW schools. Years 11 and 12 students undertake a work placement as part of most HSC VET courses. The Board of Studies has developed a set of principles to define work placement in the HSC. These principles encapsulate the MCEETYA definition of structured workplace learning.