VCAL Students

Donvale Lions Club Award

Congratulations to VCAL student Jamil V of 12V who was nominated for the Donvale Lions Club Award for his hard work, passion and for being a community-minded student who has been an integral part of his class through his support and care for other students around him.

Jamil was the recipient of three Personal Achievement Awards for his efforts in Numeracy, Personal Development and Work-Related Skills. He was a pivotal team member in the creation of a whole school event for the Minute of Silent reflection for National Sorry Day, and the letter sent to James Merlino MP regarding the significance of the day.

Jamil attended a NEVR Student Forum as a DSC representative, which included an opportunity to empower and encourage student leaders to communicate relevant information, key messages, and ideas from the forum to their peers.

Feedback from his teachers is that he is a hardworking student who demonstrates a positive attitude at all times. He is a fantastic leader and exemplifies our school values at all times. He is also kind and considerate of his classmates, caring deeply for others and is confident about speaking out when something is not right and discussing complex issues.

As a result of his outstanding efforts, Jamil also received a promotion at his workplace, Melbourne Gymnastics Centre, after he completed his structured workplace learning (SWL) with them. Well done Jamil!

Elly Stewart

Year 12 Coordinator

VCAL Students in Action

Like all students this year our VCAL students faced many challenges studying and working through COVID. 

Our Hospitality students, started the year attending Box Hill TAFE studying a Certificate 111 in Hospitality and working in the Institutes’ restaurant, Fountains. Students were able to work either “Front of House” or “Back of House” covering lunchtime and evening shifts. 

COVID came and the TAFE component learning went online and students were no longer able to fulfil their compulsory practical component of honing their trade in the institute’s restaurant. 

The majority of their theory was completed online and it has only been over the last month, that students were able to get back into the restaurant and practice their hospitality skills. This has given them the opportunity to earn a wage whilst learning a trade and they have now successfully completed their Certificate 111 in Hospitality. Many of the useful skills they've acquired at Fountains will help them going into the future.

Donna McKinlay

Careers Support

VCAL Life Skills

In Life Skills classes we are not only learning how to cook, we are learning time management, organisation, teamwork and how to be independent. Because of the pandemic, we didn’t spend a lot of time in class but even in remote learning, Ms Mcarthur gave us work that could help us mentally. I just want to thank Ms Mcarthur. You are the best teacher you give me confidence and I know you really do care about us.

Aila J (11V)