Vocational Education &

Career Pathways at Downlands

Empowering STUDENTS' Futures

Downlands College offers a comprehensive Vocational Education and Training (VET) program as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), providing students with nationally recognised qualifications in fields such as construction, engineering, business, rural operations, cookery, and fitness. With purpose-built facilities, industry-qualified trainers, and strong professional connections, students gain hands-on experience and practical skills to enhance their employability and prepare for further education.


The College also supports diverse career pathways through tailored career education programs for Years 10-12, based on the Australian Blueprint for Career Development. Students have access to career tools, resources, and opportunities to engage with tertiary institutions, industry experts, and external training organisations.


Additional opportunities include school-based apprenticeships, traineeships, and work experience, allowing students to build industry connections, gain real-world insights, and explore career options. Downlands is committed to fostering individual strengths, lifelong learning, and a growth mindset, ensuring every student is equipped for a successful future.


Senior Curriculum Handbook

Downlands College is dedicated to empowering students through diverse pathways to success. As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), we offer vocational education courses leading to nationally recognised certificates in fields like construction, engineering, business, rural operations, cookery, and fitness. These programs cater to different learning styles, enhance employability, and provide hands-on, practical learning experiences.


With industry-qualified trainers, strong professional connections, and purpose-built facilities—including an agricultural center, commercial kitchens, gyms, and industrial workshops—students gain real-world skills and insights. Our programs prepare students for further education, career opportunities, and the challenges of the professional world, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for every learner.


Our goal is to help students build confidence and resilience as they navigate their unique career journeys. By nurturing individual strengths, fostering lifelong learning, and encouraging a growth mindset, we recognise that success looks different for everyone.


As part of the senior curriculum, students in Years 10-12 participate in a tailored career education program based on the Australian Blueprint for Career Development. This program supports career exploration and management skills, offering access to tools, resources, and up-to-date opportunities.


We maintain strong connections with tertiary institutions, VET organisations, and industry experts, providing students with valuable insights and experiences. Students are encouraged to pursue academic extensions, micro-credentials, and short courses, while also benefiting from career expos, industry events, and external training options to explore their interests and expand their opportunities.

Students in Years 10, 11 or 12 can undertake a school-based apprenticeship (SBA) or traineeship. In addition to achieving a nationally recognised qualification, students also work towards completing their Queensland Certificate of Education. Our SBA program is highly valued throughout the College, and we work collaboratively with the School-Based Apprenticeships: Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office. 


Students and their families are well supported to maximise the benefits of building industry connections, gaining hands-on experience and pursuing academic studies. 

Work experience is not compulsory; however, students in Years 10, 11 and 12 are actively encouraged to participate in this program as it enables valuable insight and firsthand experience.  Work experience placements have meaning and purpose, and the student is supported to take an active role in making the necessary arrangements.  There are many benefits to work experience with students, given the opportunity to develop an understanding of a particular work environment, explore career options and clarify areas of interest. 


For all enquiries regarding careers and learning pathways, please contact [email protected]. 


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