Senior School Report

Message from the AP - Senior School

Dear Parents, Students, and Carers,

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our students for their enthusiasm and positivity as they embark on the 2025 academic year. A special welcome to the new families and students joining the Senior School community this year!

I am incredibly proud to introduce the Senior School Team for 2025. Our college has made significant investments in expanding and strengthening this team to enhance the support and services we can offer our students. This year, the Senior School will provide a comprehensive range of learning programs tailored to help each student achieve their individual goals and aspirations. These include VCE, VCE Vocational Major, Victorian Pathways Certificate, University programs like La Trobe Inspire, VET studies, School-Based Apprenticeships, Tradie Taster programs, specialist online learning options, STEM programs, and much more.

We are excited to have George Conway leading our Year 12 VCE programs, Sam Ritter leading Year 11, and Hassan Mansour leading our Year 10 team. Additionally, we’ve established a dedicated leadership team for the VCE Vocational Major (VM) and Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) programs, led by Mel Broders, to ensure continued growth and development of these offerings. We’ve also introduced full-time roles in VASS with Dijana, and VET Coordinator with Siena, to provide enhanced support with attendance tracking and academic progress. Jacqui Hunter will continue to lead Careers and Pathways, further strengthening our connections with industry and higher education institutions.

Over the past several weeks, I’ve received numerous positive comments regarding our students' engagement with both their schoolwork and the wider community.

All senior school students have now participated in assemblies where we outlined the expectations and privileges for the academic year, with a particular focus on our Year 12 students as they prepare for their upcoming VCE exams.

Key messages shared included:

The importance of arriving prepared to learn, with all necessary resources (two exercise books per subject, pens, etc.).
The need to bring their BYOD device, fully charged and loaded with digital textbooks.
The requirement to attend school in full, complete summer uniform.
An introduction to the wide range of engaging activities and programs planned for this year, alongside the high expectations we have for their conduct and behaviour.

Importance of Attendance

A core message we’re emphasising this year is the importance of regular school attendance. Consistently attending school is a crucial part of your child’s education. Students who miss school regularly risk falling behind, losing connection with their peers, and missing out on opportunities to develop essential life skills. Regular attendance and active participation will help your child:

Acquire important academic skills and knowledge.
Develop social and emotional skills, including communication, resilience, and teamwork.
Build lasting friendships that foster self-esteem and a sense of belonging.

There is no "safe" amount of school to miss. For instance, missing just one day every fortnight adds up to four full weeks of missed school each year. To minimise absences, we recommend scheduling appointments outside of school hours and planning family holidays during school breaks.

If your child is in Year 12 and will be absent, particularly if they’re undertaking VCE, it’s essential to provide a medical certificate within three days of their absence. Failure to do so could impact their learning and assessments.

Importance of Wearing School Uniform

Wearing the school uniform goes beyond a daily routine; it's the first step in fostering discipline and respect within our community. Choosing not to wear the uniform can signal non-compliance, setting a tone of disregard even before entering the classroom. This small act can impact students' attitudes toward other school rules and expectations.

Following the uniform policy is essential for a better learning environment. It reduces distractions, allowing students to focus on their studies. Uniforms promote equality, ensuring students are valued for their character and abilities rather than their appearance. It also helps reduce peer pressure and bullying related to clothing, enabling students to concentrate on what truly matters - education.

Wearing the uniform also strengthens a sense of community and belonging. It symbolises unity and school spirit, reminding students of our values: Look to Inspire, Respect All, Aim to Innovate, and Embrace Learning. This shared identity fosters collaboration and mutual respect, building a supportive school culture. Just like sports teams or clubs wear their colours to show connection, we do the same.

The school uniform is more than just a dress code; it supports discipline, equality, community, and pride. By wearing it, students contribute to a positive school atmosphere, setting the stage for success both inside and outside the classroom. We saw this pride firsthand when the Year 12 jackets were distributed, and it was inspiring to see students wearing them with such pride.

Let’s embrace our uniforms and the benefits they bring to our school community. We encourage students to make positive choices and take responsibility for their actions. Every member plays a role in creating a respectful learning environment, and we ask for your support in ensuring your child wears their uniform correctly.

Importance of being Ready to Learn

Edgars Creek Secondary College values the academic development of our students and emphasises the integration of digital technologies in learning. We aim to build students’ skills and knowledge to prepare them for success in school, university, TAFE, and the workforce, supported by BYOD and digital textbooks to help them be Ready to Learn.

Having a 1:1 BYOD device does not automatically improve learning. Given that technology is already part of students’ daily lives, it's crucial to teach them how to use it productively, collaboratively, and creatively to enhance their learning and encourage higher-order thinking. Our 1:1 program, guided by expert staff, empowers students to embrace learning, differentiate instruction, and access tools that promote problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking.

It is important that every Year 10 - 12 student has a BYOD device, and we ask families to ensure students have access to digital textbooks. The Victorian Government supports this with the School Saving Bonus, which provides $400 for school costs in 2025. If you haven’t accessed this bonus yet, please contact the college administration and speak with Renee Upoko or Shayne Harvey.

Students in Years 10 - 12 are required to have digital textbooks, which can be accessed both at school and at home. These digital versions offer additional features and benefits that traditional textbooks do not, and help students avoid carrying heavy books.

Textbooks for 2025 can be purchased via the Campion platform, and Year 10 - 12 booklists can be found on our school website.

Finally, please ensure your child has the necessary exercise books for their learning. Year 11 - 12 students require two exercise books per subject, along with pens and other supplies.

We appreciate your support in ensuring your child’s academic success. If you have any concerns or need additional financial assistance, please reach out, and we will work with you to ensure your child is set up to be Ready to Learn.

We are excited for the year ahead and look forward to supporting our students on their journey toward success!

Yours Sincerely

Glen Cowan

Assistant Principal - Senior School

Year 12 Welcome

A Strong Start to the Year 12 Program for 2025 with Two Dynamic Orientation Days!

Day One: Whittlesea Tech & Melbourne Polytechnic

The first of two Year 12 VCE Orientation days marked an engaging and insightful introduction to the academic year. The goal of this session was to equip students with the tools and strategies needed to excel during Year 12, as they prepare for the demands of both their final academic year and the upcoming VCAA examinations.

Throughout the day, students participated in a series of enriching workshops and lectures led by a range of expert presenters, including:

Maximising Literacy & English Skills for VCE Success: A workshop led by Hayley Harrison focused on enhancing literacy and English skills to support student success in VCE assessments and exams.
Brain Function, Memory, and Study Techniques: A session dedicated to exploring effective brain functions, memory retention, and study strategies aimed at boosting learning and preparation for exams.
Building Connections: A workshop that emphasised the importance of networking and building strong peer and mentor relationships.
Personal Branding & Ambitions for 2025: A session focused on personal development and setting clear goals to align with students' aspirations for the year ahead.

Day Two: La Trobe University

On Thursday, 27th February, all Year 12 students participated in the second Orientation Day at La Trobe University. This day was designed to provide an in-depth overview of the Year 12 program and included various activities that fostered a deeper understanding of academic and career pathways. Highlights included:

La Trobe Inspire Program: An introduction to the university’s inspiring initiatives and opportunities available to students.
University Tours: A guided exploration of La Trobe University’s campus to familiarise students with university life.
VCE Careers & Pathways Workshop: A session dedicated to guiding students through potential career pathways and further educational opportunities.
Experience University-Style Courses: Students had the chance to immerse themselves in real university courses, gaining firsthand insight into higher education.
Insights from 2024 Student Leaders & High Achievers: Current student leaders and high performers shared their personal experiences, offering valuable tips on how to manage the pressures of Year 12 while thriving academically.

These two Orientation Days have provided our Year 12 students with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to tackle the challenges of the upcoming year with confidence and clarity.

I would like to congratulate our students for their exemplary conduct yesterday. They truly embodied the core values of our school: Look to Inspire, Respect All, Aim to Innovate, and Embrace Learning. Throughout the day, our college leadership received numerous positive comments from presenters, praising our students for their exceptional engagement and active participation.

Our students' presentation in their uniforms was a testament to their pride in representing our college and its values. As we moved through the campuses of Melbourne Polytechnic, Whittlesea Tech, and La Trobe University, there was a strong sense of pride and belonging among us all.

These events subtly reinforced the wide range of future opportunities available to our students, including further studies at University, TAFE, and beyond.

Year 11 Welcome

Our Year 11 Cohort Kicks off Term 1 with Enthusiasm and Focus!

As we begin the new school year, the Year 11 cohort is off to a fantastic start, with both the VCE and VM students settling into their studies with energy, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose. It’s clear that this year will be a significant one for our students as they embark on their academic journey toward completing their senior studies.

The VCE and VM programs have already gotten off to a smooth start, with students diving into their subjects and engaging with new content. Teachers and students alike have embraced the challenges of these programs, and we’re excited to see the growth and development that will unfold in the coming months.

A key highlight for the VCE students was the "Time Management" seminar with Elevate Education, on the 24th of February. This seminar was an invaluable opportunity for students to learn effective strategies for managing their time, balancing their academic and personal commitments, and staying on top of their workload. As Year 11 students begin to juggle their studies, extracurricular activities, and social lives, learning these crucial time management skills early on will set them up for success throughout their VCE journey and beyond.

This year, our theme is "Together We Can Conquer the VCE Mountain." VCE is a long journey, and we recognise that it takes a dedicated team to reach the summit. From teachers and mentors, to family and friends, each person plays an essential role in helping students overcome the challenges they may face. By working together, supporting one another, and maintaining a positive, resilient mindset, we are confident that our Year 11 students will make it to the top stronger and more prepared for the future.

We encourage all Year 11 students to take full advantage of the resources available to them this year, including the Elevate seminar and the support provided by their teachers, peers, and mentors. We are confident that this cohort will continue to grow, achieve, and demonstrate resilience as they navigate the exciting road ahead.

Year 10 Welcome

In 2025, our Year 10 motto is "Exploring Pathways, Shaping Futures." Together with Year 10 Coordinators Adam Ammouche and Jacqueline Marouche, and supported by a dedicated team of staff, I, Hassan Mansour, am committed to guiding and preparing your child for a successful future.

This year, we will engage in work experience, course counselling, and expos that connect students with work programs, TAFEs, and universities. Additionally, we’ll celebrate with Year 10-exclusive events, including the highly anticipated Formal - a truly memorable experience for all.

Our cohort has started the year with great momentum, and it is crucial that we continue to build strong routines and behaviours to help students navigate their individual pathways. As a team, we are excited to collaborate with you, the parents, and the broader community to ensure our students at ECSC grow into proud, capable citizens.

VM Welcome

What is VCE VM?

The VCE Vocational Major (VM) is a practical, hands on program for Year 11 and 12 students. It focuses on real world skills to prepare them for work, apprenticeships or further study at TAFE. Students develop their literacy, numeracy, personal and work-related skills through projects, industry experience, and vocational training, helping them build confidence and independence for their future.

Our VM Team

Mel Broders - Leading Teacher VM/VPC, Literacy & PDS VM Teacher

Hi, my name is Mel, and I am the Leading Teacher for the VCE VM and VPC (Victorian Pathways Certificate). When I’m not working with VM and VPC students, I teach Product Design, so I have a strong focus on hands on, practical learning. I am passionate about supporting students as they develop the skills and confidence they need for the real world, whether that is in the workplace, an apprenticeship, or further study.

Jem Rhodes - VM Coordinator, VM Numeracy, & General Maths Teacher

My name is Jem, and I've been teaching what is now known as the VM program since 2007. This year, I've taken on the role of VM Coordinator, where I get to work closely with our VM students to help them carve out a pathway that's exciting and suited to their goals. I support students not only in their coursework but also in areas outside of the classroom, like VET and Structured Work Placement. At the start of each year, I’m always excited to meet a new group of VM students and the challenges they bring. And by the end of the year, I feel a great sense of pride as I watch our Year 12 students head off to pursue their next steps and chase their life goals.

Emily Selar - VCE VM Literacy Teacher

My name is Emily, this is my second year here at ECSC. This year I teach Literacy but I have previously taught PDS too. I really love working within the VCE VM space as it allows me to share my creative teaching skills with my students. I hope to equip students with the knowledge necessary for a successful transition into life after high school and I appreciate any opportunity to foster hands-on learning!

Jade Broekhuizen - PDS & Food Technology Teacher

I believe that education has the ability to help all students unlock their unique potential and prepare them to meaningfully contribute to and navigate, a dynamic and interconnected world. I am dedicated to assisting students to develop essential 21st century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills in order for them to thrive in their future endeavours.

Robert Reid - PDS, WRS, Visual Arts: Sculpting & Casting Teacher

Hi my name is Robert and I love spending time with my family and friends. I really enjoy going on adventures, travelling and trying new foods. I’ve been teaching for 13 years, with a majority of my time teaching students with additional needs and disabilities. I absolutely love teaching!!! In VM and VPC I am a WRS teacher and I stand for helping students become the best version of themselves so that they can enter the workforce with the skills and knowledge to be successful and respectful members of society.

Dean Ramsbottom - Numeracy, WRS, Maths & Science Teacher

Hi I’m Dean. I am entering my 11th year as a teacher. I am passionate about helping young people discover their talents and prepare themselves for life after school in the best possible way. I currently teach maths and science as well as VM Numeracy and Work Related Skills. Prior to teaching I worked many different jobs and ran three different business’, (not all at the same time). I went to University at the age of 34 and studied cell biotechnology. I then worked in a cell signalling lab as a research assistant before doing my diploma of education. Fast forward 10 years and I’m here at ECSC.

Arabella Laudisio - VM Literacy, Health, Physical Education & Food Technologies Teacher

Hi my name is Arabella and I am one of the Literacy teachers in the VCE/VM space this year. I am passionate about supporting each and every student to engage with their learning, and due to my teaching background value practical learning opportunities and read world connectedness. I hope to set up each student for individual success with the knowledge and interpersonal skills to achieve their full potential and confidently navigate challenges within the real world.

Anthony Weare - Numeracy, PDS & Humanities Teacher

I'm Anthony, and this year I'm teaching VM PDS and Numeracy. I've been teaching for 17 years across a variety of schools and complex settings. Throughout this diverse range of experiences, one constant has remained: I've always taught VM (formerly VCAL!). I’m passionate about helping VM students develop the skills they need to create, participate in, and lead effective teams.

Serene Kotob - Literacy and English Teacher

Hi, I’m Serene and I am teaching year 11 VM Literacy. I also teach year 8 English and have been a teacher of English and Humanities for around 11 years. I have been at ECSC since 2021 and have enjoyed teaching so many students over the years. I am passionate about creating supportive and safe learning environments where everyone is encouraged to reach their full potential and follow their dreams.

Nancy Hince - VCE VM Literacy Teacher

Hi, I’m Nancy! This year I’m teaching Year 12 VM Literacy. I’ve been at ECSC for 5 years and have taught VM/VCAL for 10 years now! I think that VM is an amazing pathway for students who love to learn in a different way that helps prepare them for work. I love making Literacy fun and exciting while preparing you for the workplace. I believe anyone can be a great reader and writer when given the right support!