VCE News

Welcome back to Term 2. We hope all students had a restful and productive break and are feeling refreshed for the busy term ahead. This is an important time in the academic year, particularly for our Year 12 students, as the midpoint of the year signals that final examinations are fast approaching.

For our Year 12 cohort, this term is a crucial opportunity to consolidate learning, seek feedback, and refine study habits. With exams drawing closer, consistent effort, organisation, and a focus on wellbeing will be key to achieving personal bests. One of the most effective ways to support your progress is through clear and regular communication with your teachers. Asking questions, seeking clarification, and acting on feedback can make a significant difference in understanding and performance.

Students are also strongly encouraged to take advantage of after-school study sessions. These provide a supportive environment to complete work, revise key concepts, and access tutor assistance. Making use of this time can help build consistency and confidence across all subjects.

A key date for all students undertaking a Unit 3/4 subject is the General Achievement Test (GAT), which will take place on Tuesday 16 June. The GAT plays an important role in the assessment process and should be taken seriously. Further information and preparation advice will be shared in the coming weeks.

We would also like to acknowledge that Special Examination Arrangements (SEA) applications have now been completed. Students who have applied have been notified of outcomes. If there are any questions regarding SEA, please contact the VCE coordinator.

A reminder that Learning Behaviour Updates will be available soon. These updates provide valuable insight into student progress, work habits, and engagement, and are an important checkpoint for both students and families.

Beyond academics, Term 2 also brings a number of exciting events and opportunities for students to connect and celebrate. Planning is underway for key milestones such as the Year 12 Formal, on Friday 22 May, which promises to be a memorable evening for all involved. Additionally, we look forward to the activities being organised by the Senior SRC, such as the IDAHOBIT Day on Thursday 14 May; Men’s Mental Health on Thursday 18 June; Winter Solstice celebrations on Tuesday 23 June.

We encourage all students to maintain a balanced approach this term—prioritising study while also engaging in the wider school experience. We wish everyone a successful and rewarding Term 2.

Yakult Excursion

On Monday 4th of May, the Year 12 Business Management students attended an excursion to the Yakult factory in Dandenong for a tour of the site. The students were able to see first-hand how the operations strategies they have been studying in Unit 3 are applied in a real business. This included an automated production line, artificial intelligence and computer assisted manufacturing.

The students were also able to learn about the various quality control strategies, the procurement of inputs, and how the business implements corporate social responsibility considerations. The factory tour ended with a tasting of Yakult and an educational video about gut health.  

Biology

Year 12 VCE students are nearing the end of Unit 3, and the time is going quickly!  Here, Biology students are testing the activity of an enzyme in different pH conditions, but more importantly, learning the skills of collaboration, and that work in science involves taking meticulous observations and using evidence, even if it’s not what you expect.

Using Study Hall

A reminder to all students that Study Hall is a valuable part of the school week and should be used purposefully. By this stage of the term, students should have developed a clear plan for how to make the most of this time, with a balanced approach to reviewing all of their subjects.

It can be tempting to prioritise content-heavy subjects; however, this often leads to other areas being overlooked. Consistent, smaller bursts of revision across all subjects are far more effective than focusing on just one or two.

We encourage students to plan their Study Hall time across the week, ensuring every subject is revisited regularly. Even dedicating 10–15 minutes to a specific skill, concept, or set of notes can make a significant difference, particularly when preparing for upcoming SACs.

Revision Lectures

As the year progresses, a range of revision lectures will become available to support students in their VCE preparation. During the Term 2 holiday period, Australian Catholic University will be offering free online exam revision workshops for Unit 3 students.

These sessions are free of charge, and all students who register will receive access to a recording after the session, along with a comprehensive student resource booklet to support their revision.

Looking ahead, additional free revision lectures will be offered at Federation University during the Term 3 holiday period. Further details about these sessions will be provided in Term 2.

We strongly encourage students to take advantage of these opportunities to consolidate their understanding and build confidence ahead of exams.

After School Study

Beyond the ever-popular hot chips on Mondays and pizza on Thursdays, After School Study offers students valuable academic support in a relaxed and productive environment in the library.

• Tutors are available at all sessions to provide extra guidance.
• Teachers are particularly available during Thursday sessions for subject-specific assistance.

After School Study is an excellent opportunity for students to consolidate learning, seek clarification before SACs, and develop strong study habits — all within a supportive setting.

With only 30 teaching weeks available to our Year 12 students, time is precious. Strong attendance, effective use of Study Hall, and engagement in After School Study will make a significant difference as students move steadily toward their final VCE examinations. It has been a positive and focused start to 2026, and we look forward to seeing this momentum continue.

2026 Special Examination Arrangements

Special Examination Arrangements are supports for students who have a disability, illness or other circumstances that make it difficult to complete VCE exams under normal conditions. They can help you access the exam fairly - so you can show what you know. These arrangements can apply to written exams, oral or performance exams, the Extended Investigation oral presentation and critical thinking test (CTT), and the General Achievement Test (GAT).

Who can apply?

You may be eligible if you have a condition that affects your ability to read or write, concentrate or manage anxiety, move or communicate, or see or hear clearly. This includes disabilities or illnesses as defined under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (CWlth).

How to Apply?

• You don’t apply directly - your school applies to the VCAA on your behalf.
• Your school will collect supporting evidence (for example, from a doctor, psychologist, or specialist).
• The principal must approve the application before it’s sent to the VCAA (Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority).
• The VCAA reviews your application and decides which arrangements are fair and suitable for your needs.

Examples of Possible Arrangements

• Extra writing or reading time
• Rest breaks
• Use of a computer or assistive technology

(Note: Schools can’t provide special arrangements unless they’re approved by the VCAA.)

Why Apply Early?

It’s best to start planning early — even before VCE. Talking to your school in Years 7–10 helps them put the right supports in place for classwork and school-based assessments. These same supports can then be included in your VCAA application later on.

After You’re Approved

If your application is approved, your arrangements will usually apply to future VCE or VET Unit 3–4 subjects as well. The VCAA may sometimes ask for updated information if your condition or needs change.

Need Help

• Talk to your VCE Coordinator, DI Specialist, or Wellbeing Team if you think you may need Special Examination Arrangements. They provide information on key dates and guide you through the paperwork process.

Lindy Gumpold

VCE Team Leader