VDSS Showcase 2026 Connects Families with Future Pathways

Students and families from across the region gathered at the Frankston Arts Centre on Tuesday 19 May for the VET Delivered to Secondary Students (VDSS) Showcase 2026 — an engaging evening focused on future pathways, hands-on learning and career exploration.

The showcase brought together leading local training providers and industry representatives to help Years 9–12 students better understand the opportunities available through Vocational Education and Training (VET) while completing secondary school.

Throughout the evening, families explored a wide range of industry areas, spoke directly with providers about course options and entry requirements, and gained valuable insight into how VDSS programs can support career-ready skills and future employment opportunities.

The event highlighted the growing importance of practical, skills-based learning pathways and provided students with the chance to ask questions, discover new interests and start thinking about their next steps with confidence.

A special thank you to our guest speakers for sharing their expertise and insights with attendees:
• Loretta Black – VCAA VET Unit
• Ben Jenkinson – Chisholm Institute
• Lexia Knight – Elisabeth Murdoch College
• Josh Taylor – Project One Coffee
• Helen McLoughlin – VET Cluster Coordinator

A special thank you to Helen McLoughlin, whose vision and initiative brought this event to life, and whose dedication ensured its successful delivery.

A strong turnout and enthusiastic engagement from students, parents and exhibitors made the evening a great success, reinforcing the value of connecting young people with real-world training opportunities early in their education journey.

Thank you to all exhibitors, training providers and families who attended and contributed to such a positive and informative event.