VCE VM News

I’d like to extend a warm hello as I step into the role of VCE Vocational Major (VM) Team Leader at Kurnai College.

It is a great privilege to work with such a dynamic and diverse group of students as they engage in their VCE VM journey and continue our strong focus on applied learning and valuable opportunities to develop real-world skills, confidence and pathways to further education, training or employment.

In my role, I will be working closely with our students, teachers and external partners to ensure we provide a supportive, engaging and purposeful learning environment. I’ve also had the opportunity to work closely with the team during the handover process to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for students, staff and families. I’m passionate about helping students grow as independent learners and confident contributors to their communities and future workplaces.

Communication and collaboration with families is key to student success. I look forward to working with you to support your child throughout their VCE VM experience. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, concerns or if there’s anything you’d like to discuss. You can contact me at karen.anders@education.vic.gov.au or through Compass or the school office.

Thank you for your ongoing support and I look forward to a productive and inspiring year ahead.

This Term

Our VM students have been working hard to complete learning and outcome tasks for their Semester 1 subjects.  The VM team have been impressed with the general work ethic shown by students.

Over the past couple of weeks, our VCE VM students have participated in several valuable enrichment activities, including collaborative events with Mirboo North Secondary College. Our Year 12 cohort took part in a two-day volunteering experience at Caringal Scout Camp, contributing to various building and maintenance projects. Additionally, a group of Year 12 students attended the Interviews to Impress session in Melbourne, gaining practical insights and skills to support their future career pathways.

General Achievement Test (GAT)

On Tuesday the 17th of June, all VCE and VCE VM students undertaking Unit 3 and Unit 4 subjects will sit the GAT. Administered by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA), the GAT is a compulsory check of writing, literacy and numeracy skills, and plays a vital role in ensuring the accuracy and assessment of end-of-year examinations. For more details please refer to Campus News.

Caringal Camp

Our Year 12 VM students made a fantastic contribution during their time at Caringal Camp. Working in teams, they began dismantling and rebuilding a fence, painted three bridges and the low climbing wall, and split firewood to support camp operations. 

After a productive day, we enjoyed a hearty dinner of baked potatoes and spit-roasted beef, pork, lamb, and chicken, followed by a lively evening of Capture the Flag, Spotto and a campfire gathering.

Unfortunately, wet weather on Tuesday prevented the completion of the fence project, but students remained positive and engaged throughout. It was inspiring to see everyone collaborating so effectively and approaching their tasks with enthusiasm and commitment.

A huge thank you to Brett and Amanda for organising the camp, and to Chris and Bonnie for their invaluable support.

Pictures to enjoy: 

Interviews to Impress

Brett and Hannah accompanied a group of Year 12 students to Melbourne for the Interviews to Impress program. After an early morning train journey into the city, students participated in a whole-group session that focused on the importance of preparation, presentation, and body language. They then rotated through three individual practice interviews, receiving targeted feedback and refining their techniques throughout the afternoon.

Despite a delayed return due to a train issue, the everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day. It was a rewarding and empowering program that provided students with practical experience, boosted their confidence, and offered valuable insights into the interview process. Students left with greater confidence in their ability to present themselves professionally and feel better equipped to approach future interviews.

PARTY Excursion

On Thursday, our Year 12 VCE VM students took part in the P.A.R.T.Y. (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth) Program – an internationally recognised, dynamic, and interactive awareness and prevention initiative.

Held at Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH), the program provided students with a powerful and eye-opening experience in a simulated hospital environment. By using real-life clinical scenarios, PARTY aims to educate young people on the potential consequences of risky behaviours, particularly those related to alcohol, drugs, and unsafe decision-making.

Throughout the day, students were guided through the journey of a trauma patient — from the emergency department to intensive care, rehabilitation, and recovery. They heard firsthand from healthcare professionals and individuals impacted by trauma, helping them to better understand how split-second decisions can have life-altering consequences.

The PARTY program encourages participants to recognise injury-producing situations, make safer, prevention-oriented choices, and adopt behaviours that reduce risk. It was a confronting but incredibly valuable experience that left students with a deeper awareness of the importance of responsible decision-making.

A Couple of Reminders....

Keeping up-to-date

Students need to ensure that their work placement paperwork is up-to-date.  We have a class scheduled on Fridays to support students needing to find a new work placement for next term.

We also have catch-up classes scheduled for Year 11s, Mondays, period 5 and for Year 12s, Tuesdays, period 5.  Please remember to check Compass for notifications to attend and discuss catch-up requirements with teachers.

Also, after-school study class is also available 3pm – 4.30 pm on Mondays and Thursdays. Hot chips and pizza  provided to support learning efforts in the afternoon.

Attendance

A reminder that 90% or higher attendance is expected. Frequent attendance and participation in class is required for teachers to authenticate outcomes. 

Karen Anders

VCE VM Team Leader