Published by Skills for Schools | VCE VM Resources | SWLR | Structured Workplace Learning
What is SWLR?
Structured Workplace Learning Recognition (SWLR) is an optional VCE subject that gives students formal credit for the workplace learning they are already doing as part of their VET qualification. It is not extra work experience — it is a structured, curriculum-aligned program that turns an authentic SWL placement into a recognised VCE unit, with no exams and no external assessment.
Most VM students graduate with 16 VCE units plus their VET qualification. SWLR gives eligible students the opportunity to earn up to two additional VCE credits on top of that.
For the full VCAA subject information, visit: vcaa.vic.edu.au/curriculum/vce-curriculum/vce-study-designs/swlr-vet/structured-workplace-learning-recognition-vet
How does it work?
SWLR has two units – Unit 1: Learning in the Workplace and Unit 2: Developing in the Workplace. Each unit is worth one VCE credit. Completing both units earns two additional VCE credits at the Unit 1 and 2 level. Students must complete Unit 1 before commencing Unit 2.
Each unit requires:
Download the correct WLR for your students’ VET qualification here: vcaa.vic.edu.au/curriculum/vce-curriculum/vce-study-designs/swlr-vet/workplace-learning-records-resources
Note: there is a different WLR for every VET qualification. Students must download the version that matches their specific course.
There are no exams. Assessment is entirely school-based and is not reported to VCAA.
Who is eligible?
To enrol in SWLR, a student must be:
Students must also have commenced the WHS (Workplace Health and Safety) unit of competency from their VET qualification before starting placement.
The workplace industry must directly align with the student’s VET qualification. For Unit 2, students must complete their placement in a different workplace setting or context to Unit 1. A separate WLR must be kept for each unit.
All SWL arrangements must comply with Ministerial Order 1412 (Structured Workplace Learning Arrangements).
What does the school need to do?
Schools must assign a designated staff member to oversee the SWLR program. This could be a classroom teacher, careers practitioner, VCE VM coordinator or workplace learning coordinator. This person is responsible for:
Schools manage SWLR enrolments and results directly in VASS. Before finalising enrolments, administrators should run the Structured Workplace Learning Recognition eligibility report in VASS to verify student eligibility.
Key VASS dates for 2026:
What do students actually do?
Unit 1 — AOS 1: Plan and Prepare (Term 3, Lessons 1-10)
Students research their industry and the sub-sectors within it, identify their technical and transferable skills, build a professional learner profile, find and secure a SWL placement, prepare for a host employer interview using the STAR method and complete WHS training relevant to their specific workplace.
Unit 1 — AOS 2: Participate and Reflect (Term 4, Lessons 11-20)
Students complete their 80-hour placement, maintain their Workplace Learning Record, reflect on their VET units of competency as observed and practised in a real workplace, develop and document all eight employability skills and update their career goals based on what they experienced on placement.
WLR evidence can include descriptions of scenarios, actions and processes from the workplace, notes from conversations with supervisors and employees, research activities, improved understanding of VET units of competency and photos or videos where appropriate.
What are the benefits for students?
Flexible delivery – one hour a week or Work Ready Days
The standard delivery model is one lesson per week across Terms 3 and 4 – 20 lessons, one period per week, no restructuring of your existing timetable required.
For schools that prefer a blocked approach, the 20 classroom hours can be delivered as two dedicated Work Ready Days. One day before placement covers the AOS 1 preparation content. One day after placement covers the AOS 2 reflection content. Contact us to find out how to set this up at your school.
Skills For Schools can assist in the curriculum and facilitation of subject delivery.
Ready to get started?
👉 SWLR Unit 1: Learning in the Workplace — Full Unit Suite
Questions? We would love to hear from you.
📧 info@skillsforschools.au
📞 0432 073 550
🌐 skillsforschools.au
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