The move is part of major state government reforms to school-based vocational education and senior secondary education.

It means students in all settings should have an easier path to move into entry level Vocational Education Training courses or employment after finishing school.

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Bendigo Senior Secondary College principal Dale Pearce said the changes were pleasing.

"What we're particularly pleased about with these changes is that it does two significant things," he said. "One is it integrates two senior school programs, we see that as good thing.

"It addresses what has emerged as issue in the state, where some quarters have a poor perception of VCAL and (believe) it doesn't carry the same status VCE carries. So bringing that together is a good step."

BSSC currently has about 230 VCAL students - about 20 per cent of its student population.

"Our (VCAL) program has grown in recent years," he said. "That's created a range of challenges. The program already integrated (with VCE) to some extent, so VCAL students can select VCE subjects. What changes is seeking to encourage more students to take that option."

Mr Pearce said students who start year 11 next year will be transitioned into the new program in 2023 while students starting their senior studies in 2023 will enter the new program.

"Anyone heading to yr 11 next year doesn't need to be concerned," he said. "They can select VCAL as the program they want. There will not be any changes for VCE students."

Feedback on on the reforms and details around the new certificate is being encouraged by the Victorian government including the best kind of support for all students to complete a two-year certificate, the impact of mandating a minimum number of units and ensuring forms of assessment will support student learning.

"We see the changes as quite positive and will look closely at what's been released," Mr Pearce said. "There are various opportunities for feedback, there's a survey circulating and some seminars and Q&A sessions are running for people, including staff, who are interested."

The state government is keen to hear from students, parents, caregivers, schools, TAFEs, universities along with other service providers, peak bodies, industry, employers and the wider community through the Engage Victoria website.

"We want an education system that ensures our kids succeed," education minister James Merlino said. "With a single VCE certificate that incorporates vocational and applied learning, we can ensure all kids gain the skills needed for the job they want.

"As we continue to invest in the economy of the future - we need a VET trained workforce. These changes will support more students to graduate with the skills they need for Victoria's growing industries."

The move to the new certificates is the result of a review by former Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority chief executive John Firth. The reforms are supported by a $38 million investment in the Victorian Budget 2020/21.

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