Bridging and Preparatory Department (Foundation)

Our Bridging and Preparatory department offers courses to adults wanting to re-engage with training and to prepare for employment.

We are also the home of Auslan courses at Melbourne Polytechnic.

We offer courses if you are exiting secondary school and looking for pathways into science and health.

In addition, the department provides services such as communication skills and study skills to support you at Melbourne Polytechnic.

Courses offered in Bridging and Preparatory are:

• Auslan
• Overseas Qualified Professionals (OQP) programs
• VCAL

Courses are offered on a full time and part time basis.

Courses are delivered in a range of learning environments including classroom, virtual and online modes.

Providing a base for education at our campuses all around Melbourne

Bridging and Preparatory Studies offers courses across Melbourne Polytechnic's Preston, Epping, Heidelberg and Prahran campuses.

An individually tailored program for you

The Bridging and Preparatory department individually tailors programs and learning plans for you as a student to ensure your success for work or further study.

Early school leavers

We help early school leavers develop skills and prepare you for further study, training or work. The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL), which is a senior secondary completion qualification, is one of the many qualifications offered by Bridging and Preparatory.

Our teachers specialise in working with youth and have built strong connections with community agencies.

Our programs focus on:

• literacy and numeracy skills
• employability skills
• personal development skills
• vocational skills

The strength of our programs lies in the additional support services provided to you, through:

• student pathways advisors
• student counsellors
• individual support for learning difficulties through Melbourne Polytechnic's Disability Support service
• breakfast club
• links with local community
• assistance with work experience

The programs and teaching practices within the department support and promote the principles and practice of Australian democracy, including a commitment to:

• elected government
• the rule of law
• equal rights for all before the law
• freedom of religion
• freedom of speech and association
• the values of openness and tolerance