[Pocketfox]

I dropped out of school when I was 15 or 16 because of my anxiety. It's 4 years later now and it's really starting to mess up my life. I need to go back, but I'm not too sure about what to do. Can any Australians share their experience with something like this?

What about the Distance learning program? Can you pursue VCE and/or Year 10 through that easily enough just by applying, or do you NEED to have a valid reason?

What about TAFE? Can you get your VCE from there without showing your Year 10 results? What were your experiences going to TAFE? Is it better or worse than secondary school?

I'd appreciate any input on this... I don't want to let my anxiety ruin my life anymore but this thing is hard to get moving on.

 

[JS86]

From a brief look at http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/vce/Adults/index.html, it seems like you don't need to meet any formal requirements to participate, except potentially some institutions, but I would imagine a lack of only Year 10 study would be a barrier. You should be eligible.

Is there any particular reason why you want to pursue distance education? I would definitely physically go to a place to keep motivation, socialise, and develop a support network, but then again I do not know your specific circumstances. It is only my suggestion.

Most courses require VCE or VCAL, according to this link: http://www.education.vic.gov.au/beyondschool/tafe/tafefaqs.htm. I would have a look at that link myself, since it is a large and useful question and answer page on education at TAFE. The same link also suggests you can do your VCE at TAFE, but I am not sure about requirements. It is unlikely they have any particular requirements, but you would have to contact an institution to make sure.

The TAFE environment is definitely better than the secondary school environment. People have usually matured and it is more relaxed and less formal overall, at least in my experience, but I did a Certificate IV, rather than VCE.

 

[fluffybunnyfeet]

TAFE is vastly different to secondary school. It's an adult learning environment and, as JS86 said, more informal.

I did a Certificate IV there, but it really shouldn't matter what you do...the environment is the same.

Contact your local TAFE, they should be able to give you alot of helpful advice and point out the different options available to you. If you don't feel up to a phone call, an email should do.

It's great that you're taking steps to get ahead in life. Good luck