Arts & Engagement

Year 8 Visual Communication Design (VCD): Learning to Think Like Designers

In Year 8, students take part in a subject called Visual Communication Design, or VCD for short. This subject teaches students how to use images, shapes, letters, and colours to share ideas, solve problems, and influence how people think or feel.

Designers play a crucial role in today's world. They help make our lives better by creating useful products, designing buildings and spaces, and conveying clear messages. Designers also help to build a future that is fairer and more sustainable for everyone.

This semester, our Year 8 students are learning about monograms. A monogram is a special design made from your initials (the first letters of your name). Students are creating their own monograms and learning how these can be used in branding, on clothing, or even in business logos.

Students are also making their own design zines to learn about the elements of design. These zines are a fun and personal way for students to try out different materials, colours, layouts, and drawing styles. The zines will help them with their future design work.

To improve their handwriting, students are also keeping a handwriting journal. For 10 minutes in each class, they focus on writing that is neat and clear. At the same time, they are learning about design elements such as type (letters and fonts), colour, and shape.

Visual Communication Design can be studied all the way up to Year 12, and even beyond in university or TAFEs. Designers will always be needed—no matter what the future looks like. We are proud of our Year 8 students and look forward to seeing where their creativity will take them!