VCAL 

Term 3 has been off to a fun start for the VCAL students at St John’s!

The term began with a Banquer High competition for both Year 11 and Year 12 students. Banquer high a real-world financial education experience. We have used the online simulated program to build financial confidence in our students and introduce them to financial concepts such as managing bank accounts, creating automatic payments, saving money to rent or buy a property and so much more! The program has been an interactive and hands on way to our VCAL students to attain competencies in their Numeracy Intermediate and Senior Outcomes. The program generates a running tally on students’ success and our two winners for the competition were Georgia Maxwell (Year 12) and Jasmine Koltai (Year 12). The prize was a $20 voucher of their own choosing!

Year 11 VCAL students were given an opportunity to attend the “South East Careers and Try A Trade Expo”. The expo took place in Skye and was targeted to Year 9-12 students. The event provided interactive activities and information about further education, training and employment opportunities. Exhibitors included universities, TAFEs, Registered Training Organisations, Government agencies and more. There were many give aways including food, bags, hats and basketballs. The day was a fun and informative day for all!

In week 8, our VCAL students will be having a school sleep over to bond as a cohort. Our Year 12 students have taken weeks to plan the whole occasion which will assist in attaining competencies in outcomes for Personal Development Skills and Numeracy. They have taken the initiative to research destinations and create an itinerary including timings and costs. Our Year 11’s have taken the time to have create a City Scavenger Hunt, also to attain competencies in Personal Development Skills and Numeracy. 

Applied Learning has proven to be successful for students who like to learn in a fun, interactive and hands on way! Next year, Applied Learning (VCAL) will no longer exist. Instead, students will have the opportunity to instead be a part of the new program; VCE – Vocational Major (VM). The purpose of the VCE VM is to provide students with the best opportunity to achieve their personal goals and aspirations in a rapidly changing world by equipping them with the skills, knowledge, values and capabilities to be active and informed citizens, lifelong learners and confident and creative individuals.