The NSW Board of Studies does not provide for VET and structured workplace learning in the compulsory years. The Board does however, provide vocational learning in the curriculum in the compulsory years.

Vocational learning is an important curriculum area which provides students with opportunities to develop skills to successfully complete the transition from school to employment or further education and training and to foster in them the desire for lifelong learning irrespective of what they may choose to do after Year 10.

Vocational learning programs in primary and secondary schools provide students with a vocational awareness and orientation through opportunities to be better informed about their options in work, workplaces, further education and training. Such programs include career and work education, enterprise and community-based learning, education and business partnerships.

In relation to structured workplace learning, many employers are supporting the move to a more structured approach to workplace learning in better preparing students for the transition from school. Structured workplace learning provides opportunities for formal assessment of a range of skills and knowledge in a real work setting.