Principal's Message

Over the next fortnight, Years 9 – 11 students will be sitting their end of Semester Examinations. Sitting these exams can be an incredibly valuable tool in preparing for future courses and exams. 

The exams that are set in these years often mimic the format and structure of the Year 12 exams, helping students become familiar with the types of questions, time constraints, and overall layout. Practicing under timed conditions also helps in managing time effectively during any exams that count for the ATAR. These exams are a good practice for the future because they can highlight specific topics or areas where students may need to concentrate on their studies, allowing them to focus on their weaknesses. Moreover, applying knowledge to these exams helps reinforce what they have learned. As we know, regular practice can aid in retaining information over the long term. Exams can serve as a revision tool to reinforce learning and identify gaps in knowledge.

As students become more comfortable with exam formats and content their overall confidence improves. From there they can experiment with various test-taking strategies, such as answering questions in a particular order, which could prove beneficial during exams in the future. We need to counsel students that the effectiveness of these exams depends on how they utilise them. Merely taking the exams is not enough; it's crucial to thoroughly review answers, understand their strengths or why they got certain questions wrong, and make necessary adjustments in their study approach.

However, it's also important to balance exams with other study methods and not solely rely on them. Combine these with active learning, textbook readings, note-taking, and discussions to have a comprehensive understanding of the material.

After the exams week all students in Years 7 – 11 will move to the “Step Up – 2024” program and they will begin their Year 8 – 12 academic year . The purpose of this program is to begin to lay a solid foundation for the next year. The program begins on 20 November and will go for two weeks.

At the senior level this fortnight provides teachers with the opportunity to introduce students to the VCAA Study Design set for each subject and provide students with appropriate reading and introductory work that they can look to do during the school holidays. Most importantly, they will get a greater understanding of the demands of each subject and plan appropriately for the study process that works best for them. This “Step Up” will give students and staff more opportunity to prepare for School Accessed Coursework (SAC’s) and for exam revision and preparation. For all students, the opportunity to meet other members of their classes as well as obtain an insight into the expectations of each subject, reduces feelings of anxiety at the start of the school year and ensures a smooth start to their studies.

As we experience the first year of this program, Step – Up 2024 has all the elements of an exciting finish to this year.

Raymond Pisani

Principal