A public forum to be held in Wagga Wagga on Wednesday 28 October will explore the benefits of Vocational Education and Training (VET) in schools and the relevance of Certificate I and II qualifications in the workforce. VET provides an opportunity for high school students to commence industry qualifications while still at school, and provides an important link between the school-based qualification and employment. A panel, including representatives from the School of Education at Charles Sturt University (CSU) at Wagga Wagga, will provide an insight into research and teaching in the area. They will also examine whether VET qualifications have made the transition from school to work smoother for students. “VET in schools provides a pathway from school to work that allows students to focus their study on a specific vocation quite early in their education,” said Mr Paul Galloway from the School of Education.  “It is interesting to note that VET in schools can also develop a strong study philosophy, and many students continue on to tertiary study.”