Teaching and Learning
Thomas Carlyle (1795-1881) the British historian, satirical writer, essayist, translator, philosopher, mathematician, and teacher said, “A man without a goal is like a ship without a rudder.”
At The Hamilton and Alexandra College we have a goal to seek the best for and from every student as we design and deliver a curriculum that offers breadth, depth, choice and agency. Our connected community at College ensures students are empowered to achieve their best. In 2021, students have three entry points to their learning program:
- Engage Program (Transition) Year 7
- Explore Program (Breadth) Year 8-9
- Emerge Program (Depth) Year 10-12
This week our Year 11 students and their parents are involved in subject selection interviews to finalise their Year 12 program for 2021. In the coming weeks, our Year 10 students will be invited to do the same and will discuss their academic program with the Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning, Head of VCE Studies and Head of Careers. Each student is offered time to select the best possible course that allows them to showcase their skills and interests.
On Wednesday 29th July at 7pm our current Year 9 students and their parents will attend an online Information Night for Emerge the Year 10 Pre-VCE Pathway Program. The Year 10 Emerge program is designed to offer students depth and rigour in their academic program. At this level students begin to focus their learning program to align with their interests, talents, and future goals. Students are encouraged to develop independence, self-regulation and build character in their approach to learning. Mentors, career counsellors and coaches all play an integral part in the Emerge program. This event is an opportunity to learn more about the VCE, but also how the structure of our Year 10 Emerge program will allow each student to be the best that they can be. Invitations will be emailed this week.
I encourage all students and parents involved in the subject selection process to set clear goals and be confident of the direction of their learning program. At The College, we are preparing our students for a confident future, and we invite you to partner with us.
SUSAN BRADBEER
Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning
This term I want to introduce some of our staff to the College community.
This series is called “Hello my name is…” I hope you enjoy getting to know our teachers a little better.
Hello, my name is Yang and I am a Chinese teacher.
Why did you become a teacher?
I became a teacher because I enjoy helping young people achieve. I believe all students can achieve and it is challenging but rewarding for a teacher to keep seeking the most suitable way to help them do this.
How has being a teacher helped you to learn more about yourself?
Teaching is an enriching experience. It makes me more patient and leads me to focus on the positive. It also teaches me to always look for different perspectives first before drawing any conclusions. More importantly, I am more aware of the importance of putting emotions aside during communication to make it effective. I think I am more understanding and open-minded. I enjoy teaching because it has made me a better person along the way.
What do you think schools might look like in ten years?
I think in ten years, technology will be playing a more important role than it is now. Teachers may need to pick up new ways of delivering a lesson and students may need to know how to continue learning beyond school hours. Face-to-face teaching and learning will remain necessary, but both teachers and students will be independent learners who must reach out online or in other ways to be more informed.
What is one thing you would like all your students to learn?
Be open-minded. It is hard to think critically and independently. It is even harder to be aware of the collective consciousness and go against it sometimes. That is why being open-minded is so important.
Mrs Susan Bradbeer
Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning