Assistant Principal Reports
End of Term 3
As we approach the end of Term 3, our Year 12 students are nearing the end of their secondary schooling journey. Many will use the holiday period to participate in the Knox Schools Year 12 Revision Program that is facilitated by Scoresby Secondary College and will work to balance their holiday revision program with time for recreation and relaxation. Planning for effective revision in preparation for the upcoming exams is an essential component of this holiday period for Year 12 students, and equally as important, is planning for down time and social activities.
Coincidentally, shortly after returning from holidays, many of our senior students will be required to vote in the Voice Referendum. Whether school leavers choose to vote yes, or no, is entirely their decision and is an opportunity for them to have their say. It is paramount that our young adults who are voting for their first time, are well informed. Many within our community are confused in relation to what it is exactly that they are being asked to vote for.
In short, On Saturday, 14 October 2023, Australians will have their say in a referendum about whether to change the Australian Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing a body called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
Voters will be asked to vote ‘yes’ or ‘no’ on a single question.
The question on the ballot paper will be:
“A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
Do you approve this proposed alteration?”
No doubt, conversations in the home and students own research will equip them to make an informed opinion.
The role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education.
What role will Artificial Intelligence play in student learning and authentication of student work?
A Melbourne University paper written by Dr Jemma Skeat and Dr Natasha Ziebell makes the following ponderings:
“There has been intense speculation about the role of generative artificial intelligence (AI) – including Chat GPT and other large language models – in the education of university students. Is it a powerful tool that will enhance learning or is it a threat to academic integrity?
A recently announced Federal Government inquiry – currently calling for submissions – will examine the impact the new technology could have on the Australian education system.
Since ChatGPT was released in November 2022, universities have been playing catch up in understanding the implications of this technology for teaching and learning, and, importantly, for assessment.
Academic integrity has been one of the key issues on the table: generative AI can write a believable essay and pass a medical licensing examination, so where does this leave our ability to identify what a student has learned?”
We will keep parents, carers and students informed, as educational policy is developed in relation to the effective use of AI within schools and universities.
Wishing students an enjoyable and safe holiday break.
Mr Ayman Youssef
Assistant Principal – Teaching & Learning
At the end of the term students from Scoresby Secondary College went to visit Arcadis to learn more about what career opportunities are available to them on leaving school. Arcadis is one of the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets. The day was aimed at girls who are studying a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) subject with an interest in the design, engineering and construction industry.
Students had the opportunity to be mentored by four female employees at Arcadis and listen to what they did in the company and how they reached that position. It was great opportunity for these girls to see career choices that are available for them.
I would like to acknowledge the daily interactions that I have with our students. It is clear that our students value both respect and pride. It is heart-warming to see the positive relationships that have been built between students and staff, and the willingness of students to help and support each other. This is a testament to the supportive and inclusive culture we have built at our college.
Walking around the school this week has been a great experience. I had the opportunity to visit the Respectful Relationship and Challenge Program and observe how engaged our students were. I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of both Mrs Fiona Matthews and Mrs Kiri Caracasidis in developing such a rewarding week for our Year 8 & Year 9 students, and also a big thank-you to our hard working and enthusiastic staff who delivered this exceptional program.
With the end of term break now here, I want to remind our VCE students of the importance of continuing to study during this time. While it is necessary to take a break and recharge, do remember that consistent study and revision will ensure that you are fully prepared for your exams helping you to achieve your academic goals. Remember, your hard work and dedication will pay off in the long run.
During the first three days of the school holidays the Knox Revision Program for Year 12 students organised and led by Scoresby Secondary College is being held for all students undertaking external exams from Knox Government Secondary Schools. Mrs Major has worked hard to establish a partnership with the Australian Indian Community Trust (16-18 Kingsley Close, Rowville), the venue for this three-day event.
Mr Mark Corrie
Assistant Principal - College Operations