In a dynamic job market, there’s more than one approach to prepare for a career opportunity. Besides the traditional academic pathways, vocational training in Singapore offers practical training for those seeking careers in various industries. Recognising the diverse options in the job market, the Australian International School (AIS) offers not only the International Baccalaureate, but also Vocational Education and Training (VET) through vocational education courses. This makes AIS the only school in Singapore to provide secondary students with both pathways. The school’s 2022 Average ATAR Result was 87.7.
What to expect from Vocational Education and Training at AIS
VET was introduced at AIS in 2016, in response to students who sought a more practical and industry-focused education. It provides a pathway for students to develop practical expertise that’s highly sought after in various industries.
VET is offered as part of the Higher School Certificate (HSC) programme at AIS. Students can pursue vocational education qualifications leading to certificates I and II in Construction or Hospitality, alongside studying standard subjects such as English and Maths.
All VET courses at AIS are taught by industry professionals. This ensures that students receive insights from those who have worked in their chosen industries. Besides enhancing their knowledge through real-world exposure, students are also empowered with practical applications that are invaluable in the workforce.
Along with an interest in the chosen topic – in the case of AIS, those are Construction or Hospitality vocational training in Singapore – students must also have a strong commitment to doing the qualification in VET. They must attend all training and practice sessions, as skills and knowledge are assessed over time.
Any secondary student can enrol in vocational training education at AIS, although some training courses require a portfolio. This can be completed in Years 10, 11 or 12 as part of the VET or in co-curricular activities.
Popular vocational education training choices at AIS
Among the vocational education training options available at AIS, the standout is the Hospitality course – in particular, the facets related to barista work in Hospitality vocational training in Singapore. It’s popular among students as they get to delve into the art of crafting coffee, prepare dishes and manage the dynamics of a bustling restaurant.
Another thing that students on this VET course take away are life skills they can use beyond the classroom and after graduation. The valuable experience gained during their vocational education training continues to serve them in their future careers and life.
Hear from a graduate…
Aiden (21) graduated from AIS in 2020 from the VET programme in Hospitality. He’s currently working at Citrique, a fine-dining restaurant in the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa in Australia.
What is your role at Citrique?
My responsibilities as a multi-trained staff member include providing recommendations on menu items as well as cocktails and wines that will pair well with their meal. So I’m offering the customer a complete dining experience.
Why did you opt for VET over the standard curriculum?
When I started at AIS in year 11, I was studying for a university degree in computer science. I chose the VET hospitality programme to learn skills that would assist me with getting a part-time job while studying. Soon after commencing my studies, I discovered that hospitality could be a career. That gave me the spark that hospitality was where I wanted to be in the long term.
Under the guidance and assistance of Ms Kinch, I evaluated hospitality courses that would be best suited to my new desire of working in 5-star hotel restaurants. This desire was solidified after completing a school trip to the HOTEL School at Sea World on the Gold Coast, where we got to a behind-the-scenes look at working in hospitality at a resort.
How has AIS’s vocational education training helped you prepare for work life?
It has enabled me to grasp the level of planning and preparation required for seamless event execution. This skill has been useful for my present role, where I’m entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring we have everything needed for a successful event.
How do you see yourself growing in this industry?
After two years of dedicated service at the JW Marriott, my career aspirations are firmly set on supervisory roles within the restaurant. I’ve already initiated discussions with my managers to formulate a strategic career plan that will enable me to reach this milestone. Beyond that, I envision myself stepping into the shoes of a Restaurant Manager.
How do you think your time in VET will help with this?
My experiences in the VET programme have taught me that success in the hospitality industry isn’t solely dependent on academic qualifications. Instead, it’s hands-on experience and dedication to one’s craft that truly shine. In the dynamic world of hospitality, specialisations abound, whether it’s Hotel Management, Front Desk Reception, or in my case, Restaurant Management.
Learn more about VET and other pathways at AIS
Aiden’s story is just one of the many success stories from AIS VET graduates. The school is commited to preparing students for their chosen fields, and offers globally recognised pathways for this, including IBDP, HSC and VET options.
Learn more about these pathways at the AIS website.
Australian International School Singapore
1 Lorong Chuan
6883 8127 | ais.com.sg
Read a parent’s review on Australian International School in our huge guide to international schools in Singapore. Also, here are ideas on things to do in Singapore for teenagers and ideas for the next long weekend break.