Behind every dazzling performance lies a world of unseen talent, and the 2025 Schools Spectacular was no exception. While the spotlight shone on 6,000 public school students wowing tens of thousands at Qudos Bank Arena, a quieter revolution was unfolding backstage. Over 150 vocational education and training (VET) students, armed with technical prowess, were the unsung heroes ensuring the show ran seamlessly. But here's where it gets fascinating: these weren't just any students—they were years 11 and 12 learners from across the state, diving headfirst into real-world roles like camera operation, audio engineering, lighting design, and even managing the event's beloved tiny café.
Karabar High School stole the spotlight in VET participation, with 11 students gaining hands-on industry experience. Among them was Jack Merton, a vision specialist who operated cameras for the IMag screens, projecting performances across the arena. “My Certificate III in Live Production and Technical Services is a fun, interactive course that gives you a break from academics and lets you dive into hands-on learning,” Jack shared. “I’ve been working with all the cameras and seeing the large-scale technical magic behind a show like this.”
Accompanying Jack was Stephen Barrett, Karabar’s music and entertainment teacher, who served as the 2IC for the student production team. “VET is about building students who can step into the industry and hit the ground running,” Mr. Barrett explained. “They’re not just honing skills; they’re working on a world-class event, guided by industry professionals who nurture their growth.”
But here’s where it gets controversial: While VET programs are often seen as alternatives to traditional academics, Mr. Barrett argues they’re the ultimate pathway for students. “There’s a VET subject for everyone, whether you want to be a mechanic, carpenter, graphic designer, or work in live entertainment,” he emphasized.
Students also learned from industry giants like Eclipse Sound & Vision, which provided technical equipment for SpecFest—an entertainment hub outside the main event, run almost entirely by VET students. Nicole Neal, Eclipse’s director and vision switcher, praised the students’ enthusiasm and the unique training environment. “SpecFest is a deep-end experience,” Ms. Neal said. “Some students have never touched a camera before, but they’re thrown into the mix. It’s inspiring to see their progress and passion.”
Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education Steve Whan attended both events and was impressed by the students’ dedication. “These hands-on experiences are invaluable, giving young people a foot in the door to an exciting sector,” he said. “We’re proud to see them turn passion into pathways that wow audiences.”
The NSW Department of Education proudly supports programs like Schools Spectacular and SpecFest, which provide essential vocational skills and open doors to future careers. But here’s the question we leave you with: Are VET programs truly the future of education, or do they risk overshadowing traditional academic pathways? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
