DATTA Vic upcoming events

VCE Product Design and Technologies Unit 4 Online (PL2613) (12 May 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 06:00:00 GMT

When: Tuesday 12th May, 4pm - 6pm

Where: Online - link provided one business day before event.

Presenter: Jacinta O'Leary

Cost:

$85 for members
$125 for non-members
$55 for students/pre-service teachers

The recording will be available as part of a Unit 4 resources pack from the DATTA Vic shop when the event has finished.

This online professional learning workshop is ideal for educators who are new or returning to teaching VCE Product Design & Technologies. It will take an in-depth look VCE PD&T Unit 4, covering all you need to know about Production and Evaluation of Ethical Designs. The session will focus on:

Assessment Criteria 1-3 that are due end of Semester 1 (Unit 3) and dates
Unit 3 folio items to be finished before production starts
Unit 4 Production and record of progress
Unit 4 Creating the SAC

Participants will receive the recording, presenter slides and associated resources after the event.

NOTE: The link for this session will be sent via email one business day prior to the event.

VCE Product Design and Technologies Unit 2 Online (PL2622) (14 May 2026)

Thu, 14 May 2026 06:00:00 GMT

When: Thursday 14 May, 4pm - 6pm

Where: Online - link provided one business day before event.

Presenter: Jacinta O'Leary & Michael Dale

Cost:

$85 for members
$125 for non-members
$55 for students/CRT Members

This professional learning workshop is ideal for educators who are new or returning to teaching VCE Product Design & Technologies. It will take an in-depth look VCE PD&T Unit 2, covering all you need to know about Positive Impacts for End Users. The session will focus on how to teach:

about the role and work of designers who create products that support positive impacts for end users
designing for positive impacts
cultural influences on design
The Double Diamond Design approach and its application for Unit 2
Assessment for Unit 2

There will be a particular focus on celebrating First Nations perspectives in design.

Participants will receive the recording, presenter slides and associated resources after the event.

NOTE: The link for this session will be sent via email a business day prior to the event.

Disclaimer

The approaches outlined in this workshop are those of the author and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of DATTA Vic. While all attempts have been made to align the advice and suggestions with VCAA expectations, the support material has not been verified by VCAA. Authors have acted with all available information from VCAA at the time of publication.

Responsibility for any loss resulting from action or refraining from action in response to the material must be accepted by users. Teachers must refer to the mandatory documents in relation to the study from VCAA, available online and updated every year.

Circularity & Regenerative Design - A Free D&T Week Event for Members (PL2620) (19 May 2026)

Tue, 19 May 2026 06:00:00 GMT

A free Design & Technologies Week teacher PD for members

When: Tuesday 19 May

Where: Online 4pm - 5pm

Presenters: Isabella Raco

Cost:

Free for DATTA Vic members
$29 for non-members

Join us to celebrate Design & Technologies Week 2026 and explore regenerative design and the circular economy.

Isabella Raco is a designer, researcher and educator working at the intersection of textile material systems, digital technologies, design as transformation, and social impact. Circularity and regenerative transformation are the baseline of Isabella’s practice. As a PhD candidate at the RMIT University School of Design and a sessional educator in the School of Fashion and Textiles, her work investigates how creative participation can shift our relationship to materials and clothing, moving from passive consumption to active stewardship within a circular economy.

For Isabella, making is a catalyst for behavioural and cultural change. Through her workshops, participants engage directly with repair, reuse and redesign as embodied systems thinking, developing both technical skills and circular literacy.

At this online event, Isabella will share her practice and unpack the concepts of regenerative design, the circular economy and systems thinking.

Disclaimer

VCE Systems Engineering Unit 2 Online (PL2615) (20 May 2026)

Wed, 20 May 2026 06:00:00 GMT

When: Wednesday 20 May, 4pm - 6pm

Where: Online

Cost:

$85 for members
$125 for non-members
$55 for students/pre-service teachers

This professional learning activity is delivered via Teams and is designed to set you up for success with teaching Unit 2 - Mechanical systems design.

Delivered by Colin Chapman, this is an essential PL for all educators who are teaching the new Systems Engineering study design.

There will be a particular focus on key skills and suitable assessment tasks, including the use of multi modal records of evidence. As well as offering clarification on terms, Colin will also unpack the relevant new concepts within the study design, including cultural and historical influences on engineering design and inclusive design.

The link to join the webinar and instructions for the session will be sent one business day prior to the event.

Photo by ThisisEngineering on Unsplash

Disclaimer

Traditional Skills Immersion for Teachers at the Rare Trades Centre(PL2619) (12 Jun 2026)

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

When: 9am - 4.30pm, 12th June 2026

Where: Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades, Ballarat

Presenter: Tammy Gilson & Sam Bloomfield

Only 10 spots available

Cost:

$599 for members
$699 for non-members

Includes morning tea, lunch and all materials

DATTA Vic are delighted to announce a new partnership project with the Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades.

The Rare Trades Centre was established in 2022 as a place dedicated to the preservation and perpetuation of traditional skills, knowledge and practice to ensure the language of ‘making’ in Australia is not lost to history and remains alive and accessible for future generations.

For the first time, we have put together a unique professional learning opportunity for DATTA Vic members.

As well as a behind the scenes tour, participants will get the chance to work with two of Australia's leading makers and learn to work with traditional tools, materials and processes.

Sam Bloomfield is a skilled armourer, blacksmith and metal sculptor. He has a passion for metal sculpting combining traditional and modern techniques.

“In childhood, I started tinkering with tools and materials in my dad’s workshop and the passion never left me. The interest led me to a qualification in Arts and Creativity while informally I did an apprenticeship with a mentor who created the armoury for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Over the last 20 years I’ve worked various TV and film productions. I always make things on a feeling and try to make something as original as possible.”

In the first part of this workshop, you'll learn from Sam to work with metal to create a piece of jewellery with materials and processes little changed from the time of the Vikings, which you will take home with you.

Tammy Gilson is a proud Wadawurrung woman and award-winning weaver. Her work carries on the traditional techniques of both her Wadawurrung and English ancestors while using locally sourced materials with an emphasis on sustainability.

“I love drawing upon my cultural knowledge and looking at our cultural landscape and using the resources from country that I feel really connected to. It means I’m revitalising and really showcasing our culture.”

In the second part of our workshop, participants will learn to wrap, coil and stitch sisal fibre to make unique jewellery with Tammy. This meditative process will offers insight into the cultural knowledge of the Wadawurrung people. At the end of the workshop, you will take home the pieces you made.

Disclaimer

Coding with Python for Beginners (PL2617) (16 Jun 2026)

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMT

When: Tuesday 16 June, 9:30am - 3:30pm

Where: Yarra Ranges Tech School

Presenter: Sally Stepniewski & Matt Pattison

Cost:

$229 for members
$329 for non-members
$129 for university students/Pre-service teachers

NB: If you are a partner school with Yarra RangesTech School, please contact pl@datta.vic.edu.au about registering and further information.

Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

Photo by Tai Bui on Unsplash

Python is a versatile programming language known for its simple, English-like syntax and emphasis on code readability. Ideal for beginners and experts, it is widely used for web development, AI, and automation.

Discover how easy and engaging Python coding can be for your students in this hands‑on professional learning session aligned with the VC 2.0 Technologies 7–10 curriculum.

This workshop introduces foundational programming concepts through simple, practical activities you can take straight into the classroom. Whether you're brand new to coding or looking to build confidence, you'll leave with clarity, resources, and classroom‑ready ideas to help your students thrive in the world of design and digital technologies.

NB: If you are a partner school with Yarra Ranges Tech School please contact pl@datta.vic.edu.au about registering and further information.

Disclaimer

Creative Futures Annual Design Workshop 2026 - INNOVATION - PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE (PL2629) (29 Jun 2026)

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Free professional learning on using museum collections and design thinking practices to enrich schools based design education.

When: Monday 29th June, 9.30am - 4.30pm

Where: Melbourne Museum

Cost: FREE

*Note places are free but strictly limited. Book early to guarantee your spot

Image credit: Bradley Weber' licensed as CC BY 2.0.

This one day, free intensive for years 7-10 Design & Technologies teachers nurtures excellence in design education in Victoria. Supported by Creative Futures Ltd, it is free for educators and jointly facilitated by Museums Victoria Education and DATTA Vic.

This workshop is a hands-on experience, where participants collaborate to identify new and engaging ways to deliver the Design & Technologies curriculum in the classroom.

The day will start with a visit to Rome: Empire, Power, People to explore the ground-breaking inventions that were developed over 2000 years ago. Then through a series of design sprints, you'll consider what innovations we will need for a sustainable tomorrow while learning from yesterday's innovations . You'll gain confidence in getting your students to use the design process and speculative thinking to create designed solutions for future communities.

To discover the activities and resources from previous Annual Design Workshops, click HERE.

VCE PD&T Exam Prep for Teachers (PL2625) (11 Aug 2026)

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 06:00:00 GMT

When: Tuesday 11 August, 4pm - 6pm

Where: Online - Teams link will be sent one business day prior to event.

Presenter: Jacinta O'Leary

Cost:

$85 for members
$125 for non-members
$55 for university students/pre-service teachers

This webinar is for teachers who want to prepare their students for the end of year VCE Product Design & Technologies exam.

It will be led by experienced educator and writer Jacinta O'Leary, who will discuss essential skills and knowledge, explore common errors, offer hints and tips for exam success and share a range of student activities.

The session will focus on:

refreshment of Unit 3 and 4 outcomes
strategies to assist your students
activities that are suitable for students
sharing ideas and tips to gain the best results.

You'll also receive a set of resources to use with your class.

Disclaimer

VCE Systems Engineering Exam Prep for Teachers (PL2624) (25 Aug 2026)

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 06:00:00 GMT

When: Tuesday 25th August, 4pm - 6pm

Where: Online - Teams link will be sent one business day prior to event.

Presenter: Colin Chapman

Cost:

$85 for members
$125 for non-members
$55 for students/pre-service teachers

This webinar is for teachers who want to prepare their VCE class for the end of year exam.

It will be led by experienced educator and curriculum writer Colin Chapman, who will discuss essential knowledge, explore common errors, offer hints and tips for exam success and share a range of helpful student resources.

The session will focus on:

refreshment of Unit 3 and 4 outcomes
unpacking of previous exam questions
strategies to assist your students
activities that are suitable for students
sharing ideas and tips to gain the best results.

Disclaimer

VCE PD&T Online Exam Prep for Students (PL2627) (19 Sep 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

When: Saturday 19th September, 10am - 12:30pm

Where: Online - via Microsoft Teams

Presenter: Jill Livett

Cost:

$35 per student (Free for accompanying teacher)*
$85 per member teacher participating without any students
$125 per non-member teacher participating without any students
$55 for University students/Preservice teachers without any students

*Form must be completed by a teacher on behalf of all students.

Teachers attend free if coming with group of students. To book, chose the "Teacher with Students" ticket and enter the number of students under

'guests' at the bottom of the form

This workshop, led by expert teacher and writer Jill Livett, will help prepare students for the end of the year VCE PD&T exam. It will focus on:

a refreshment of Unit 3 & 4 outcomes
relevant information from the examiner's reports and previous exams
a range of helpful student activities
sharing hints and tips to gain the best results
lots of exam revision resources to keep

Students should ensure they have drawing materials for the activities.

Click HERE to access DATTA Vic's Child Protection Policy, Procedures and insurance documentation.

Disclaimer

Success with Systems Engineering Masterclass (PL2628) (21 Sep 2026)

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

FOR OUT OF FIELD EDUCATORS TEACHING SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

When: 9.30am - 4.30pm, Monday 21st to Thursday 24th September 2026

Banyule Nillumbik Tech School
Presenter: Colin Chapman & Anthony Gasson
Cost:

Members: $990

Non-members: $1200

*If you work at a Banyule Nillumbik Tech School partner school and wish to attend this program, please contact Laura at pl@datta.vic.edu.au

DATTA Vic is delighted to once again delighted to deliver our Success with Systems Engineering Masterclass program during the September school break.

Systems Engineering offers a great way to deliver STEM learning opportunities that equip young people with the skills they'll need for a global, technology-driven and flexible future.

However, Victorian schools are facing barriers to successful delivery, including dropping numbers of student enrolments at VCE and a lack of qualified teachers in the Design & Technologies learning area.

Our Success with Systems Engineering program has four aims:

To upskill teachers from other STEM areas (Design & Technologies, Physics, etc) to deliver engaging and relevant Systems Engineering programs

To support schools who are struggling to recruit Systems Engineering teachers

To explore ways to attract and retain a more diverse cohort of students in Systems Engineering

To offer support to schools to set up VCE Systems Engineering as a senior subject

We'll also be taking a look at the new 2026 study design, to ensure our participants are ready to implement it in its first year.

Registrations are open now to participate in this teacher masterclass, which will run in the term break from 21-24 September

Numbers are strictly limited, so register early to ensure your place.

Morning tea and lunch each day are served, and all resources are provided.

Feedback from participants of our previous Success with Systems workshops:

The masterclass covered all the requirements to be able to know how to begin teaching VCE Systems.

A Lot of practical demonstrations and hands-on activities to develop skills for teaching

Practical demos tuning us into having a go! The challenges throughout were pitched at the right fundamental level.

Great strategies for how to teach complicated topics

Was amazing! I learned so much about course content in regards to VCE and I enjoyed learning the components of systems and coding.

Very well presented and totally engaging

Disclaimer

The approaches outlined in this workshop are those of the author and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of DATTA Vic. While all attempts have been made to align the advice and suggestions with VCAA expectations, the support material has not been verified by VCAA. Authors have acted with all available information from VCAA at the time of publication.

Responsibility for any loss resulting from action or refraining from action in response to the material must be accepted by users. Teachers must refer to the mandatory documents in relation to the study from VCAA, available online and updated every year.

VCE Systems Engineering Online Exam Prep for Students (PL2626) (10 Oct 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 22:30:00 GMT

When: Saturday 10th October, 9.30am - 11.30am

Where: Online - via webinar - details provided on receipt of payment.

Presenter: TBC

Cost:

$35 per student (Free for accompanying teacher)*
$85 per member teacher participating without any students
$125 per non-member teacher participating without any students
$55 for University students/Preservice teachers without any students

*Form must be completed by a teacher on behalf of all students.

Teachers attends free if coming with group of students. To book, chose the "Teacher with Students" ticket and enter the number of students under

'guests' at the bottom of the form

This workshop will help prepare students for the end of the year VCE Systems Engineering exam. It will focus on:

a refreshment of Unit 3 & 4 outcomes
relevant information from the examiner's reports and previous exams
a range of helpful student activities
sharing hints and tips to gain the best results
lots of exam revision resources to keep

*Please note: the session link will be sent out to the email on the registration form a couple of days prior to the event.

Click HERE to access DATTA Vic's Child Protection Policy, Procedures and insurance documentation.

Disclaimer

CREATE - THE DATTA VIC 2026 CONFERENCE (4 Dec 2026)

Thu, 03 Dec 2026 21:00:00 GMT

SAVE THE DATE!

When: December 4, 2026

Where: Northern College of the Arts & Technology (NCAT), Melbourne

Now seeking workshop proposals.

SUBMIT HERE

The 2026 DATTA Vic Conference CREATE is taking place on the 4th December in Melbourne, and we are inviting our members and partners to submit ideas for workshops that they would like to present.

We're looking for a mix of practical, hands-on workshops and seminar-style sessions. Our delegates teach both primary and secondary, and we cover all areas of P-10 Design & Technologies, STEAM, VCE Product Design & Technologies and VCE Systems Engineering.

It's a great experience to run a workshop - you get to develop your own leadership skills, and as a presenter, you get to attend the rest of the conference for free!

If you want to discuss your idea for a workshop before submitting, contact Laura at pl@datta.vic.edu.au.