Well that’s fine. You may as well give it ago and sign up for the UCAT so you have your options open. But please don’t be afraid to follow your passions either. I know pressure from relative and parents can suck.
So, your kid’s a computer whiz, dreaming of a future filled with animation and game design, but the school has decided to shove him into a Vocational Major (VM) stream that’s more about hammers and nails than pixels and polygons. Welcome to the world of VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education), where sometimes it feels like the system just doesn’t get it.
As a parent, you might be feeling a bit like you’re caught between a rock and a hard place. Your son has ADHD, struggles with traditional academics, and is clearly destined for a career that involves more creativity and less construction. Yet here you are, trying to navigate through the maze of educational options to find a path that doesn’t involve a hard hat and a toolbox.
First things first, let’s talk about the VM stream. This is typically designed for students who want to pursue vocational training in fields like building, plumbing, and other hands-on trades. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with these paths (hello, skilled tradespeople!), they’re not exactly what your son has in mind.
Now, here’s the kicker: the VM doesn’t have to be a one-size-fits-all solution. Although it’s often associated with construction, there are ways to tailor it to more digital pursuits. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole—except you can actually carve the peg a little to make it fit better.
1. Explore TAFE Options: You mentioned that he could take a digital program at TAFE, which is a fantastic start. TAFE (Technical and Further Education) offers a variety of courses in animation, game design, and digital media. The beauty of TAFE is that it’s more flexible and often more aligned with industry needs than traditional schooling. Just make sure he knows that while he might have to endure some irrelevant classes, the payoff could be worth it.
2. Talk to School Counselors: Don’t underestimate the power of a good chat. Schedule a meeting with his school counselors or career advisors. They might have insights into alternative pathways or programs that can accommodate his interests without forcing him into classes that make him want to pull his hair out. They might even surprise you with options you hadn’t considered!
3. Look into Alternative Schools: Sometimes, the answer is to look outside the traditional school system altogether. There are alternative schools that focus on creative and digital disciplines. These schools might offer a more tailored curriculum that better suits your son’s interests and learning style. It’s worth doing some research or even visiting a few to see if they could be a good fit.
4. Online Courses and Programs: In today’s digital age, there’s a whole world of online courses available. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and even specialized game design schools offer courses that can help him build his skills without having to step into a classroom full of construction students. Plus, who doesn’t love learning in their pajamas?
5. Networking and Community: Encourage him to get involved in local community groups or online forums related to game design and animation. Networking with like-minded individuals can lead to opportunities for mentorship, internships, or even collaborations that can provide valuable experience and insight into the industry.
At the end of the day, it’s about finding the right balance between what the educational system offers and what your son is truly passionate about. Yes, it might mean some extra legwork on your part, and yes, there might be a few bumps along the way, but the goal is to help him carve out a future that he’s excited about. After all, if he can turn his love for gaming and animation into a career, wouldn’t that be a win-win?
So, gather your resources, keep the lines of communication open, and don’t be afraid to advocate for your son’s unique path. The world of education is vast and sometimes confusing, but with a little persistence and creativity, you can find a way for him to thrive—preferably without a hard hat in sight!
Inspired by: “Doing VCE when you’re not academic but not interested in building/plumbing type paths” (r/melbourne)