Learning and Teaching 

Reporting

As part of the process of aligning practises at St Bede’s College, reporting has undergone some adjustments in the past two years. Over the course of 2022, the school has moved from a static model - that provides comprehensive reports at the end of each term - to a greater focus on continuous reporting. Continuous reporting is provided via PAM, and is released by the teacher as soon as the assessment task is marked, allowing both parents and students to access feedback in a more timely fashion and sooner implement changes toward improvement.

Developments will continue into 2023, with continuous reporting remaining a focus. Feedback regarding learning behaviour from each classroom teacher will also be collated to give an overall snapshot of how each student is performing in this regard. It is thought that this will reinforce positive behaviour in the classroom, as well as give both parents and teachers the opportunity for early intervention. An opportunity to discuss this approach in an open forum will be provided in early 2023; please expect an invitation early next year.

Year  9 to 11 Exams

With our Year 11 and Year 12 Unit 3/4 students having just commenced external VCE exams, our Years 9 to 11 students are finishing their courses in preparation for their exam periods. Exams commence Week 6 on the following dates;

Unit 1/2 Exams - Thursday 10 November to Friday 18 November

Year 9 and 10 Exams - Friday 11 November 11 to Wednesday 16 November

Exam Timetables have been sent to students via email, as well as posted on SIMON in the messages section. These are also available to parents via PAM.

Unit 3/4 (Year 12 Subject) Trial Exams - 2023

Many families are curious regarding the internal workings of the VCE and how study scores are calculated. In short, it relies on both internal assessments (undertaken at the school) as well as external assessments (which are typically exams). Consistency is key in the VCE. Students need to apply themselves daily to their studies; keeping up with work set, but also preparing regularly for exams that take place at the conclusion of the year.

Undoubtedly, it is the performance in these end of year exams that is of the most importance. They are used to calculate the final score as they contribute to the final mark, however they also moderate students across the State and determine whether an internal score at one school holds more, less or equal value to that at another school. 

Our exam regime, which commences in Year 9, is designed to ensure that students are well prepared for their final exams. The trial exams are the final step of preparation, and mirror the final exams closely. They are the best way to prepare; an opportunity to highlight areas of competency, as well as identifying those still needing development. We value them highly and structure the year so that all students are given the best opportunity to be adequately prepared.

Please note that, in 2023, Trial Exams will take place during the September school holidays. All students undertaking a scored Unit 3/4 VCE subject (i.e. Year 12 and accelerated Year 11 VCE students) are expected to attend these exams. Should any students or teachers have any questions regarding these arrangements, please ensure to contact Mr Mair at the earliest convenience.

Brenden Mair

Deputy Principal

Teaching and Learning