Introduction

Outline

At Norwood Secondary College we are committed to providing innovative and engaging teaching and learning for all students. We focus on successfully engaging students as active participants in life-long learning. Our curriculum nurtures the potential of each student and encourages them to achieve their personal best in all areas. 

The Norwood Secondary College learning community takes into consideration the Principles of Learning and Teaching P-12, Middle Years research and Victorian Curriculum standards in its organisation of the curriculum in Years 7, 8 and 9. The delivery of curriculum is student-centred and based on cooperative learning and thinking strategies. This provides opportunities for teachers to better meet the needs of young adolescents by creating stimulating and supportive learning environments that engage and challenge each student. The Victorian Curriculum is implemented within this framework. 

Throughout Year 7 and 8, students are exposed to a range of subjects across our 7 KLA areas: English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Health and Physical Education, Arts and Technology. Exposure to these subjects gives students the opportunities to learn about potential areas of interest, as well as develop skills across a range of classes. 

Years 7 and 8 classes have most of their core subjects taught in designated homerooms. The homeroom concept, with an Academic and Wellbeing focus, has significantly reduced the movement of students, assisted in their organisation and encouraged a sense of ownership and belonging to the College. A Mentoring Program runs for students across all levels. In Years 7, 8 and 9 the program has a focus on our College values.  Teachers use this time to speak to students one-on-one about their learning goals and issues of concern. 

During Year 9, students are provided the opportunity to choose elective subjects for the first time. Students are encouraged to be open minded in these decisions, exploring a range of subjects prior to entering Senior School. 

This handbook aims to provide information to students and parents about available subjects and course selection throughout Junior School. 

Students are encouraged to complete their own research by speaking to the Careers/Pathways coordinator, as well as subject teachers about specific subjects they may be interested in selecting. During the subject selection process, students should also consider subjects they have an interest in, as well as those they are good at. 

Cooperation between home and the College is most important in the fostering of a sound education and positive outcomes for students. Should parents have any queries or concerns regarding matters of policy and curriculum, or queries regarding student wellbeing or progress, they are encouraged to contact Junior School.

Staff members are readily available to discuss any aspect of your child’s progress. Your attendance at Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences and Information Nights is encouraged. 

Our College has a strong focus on ensuring that as students move through the various stages of schooling, their needs are accommodated through our several transition programs.  This is most evident in the Grade 6 to Year 7 move, but also seen between each year level, the move from Junior School to Senior School, commencement of VCE studies and, of great importance, the departure from school to further their study or employment. 

At Norwood Secondary College, we believe that establishing an effective learning environment must be developed in partnership with students, parents and staff. In order to address the complexity of changes experienced during adolescence, this partnership must be strong and dynamic. The College appreciates and fosters parent participation that promotes learning in a wider community. An overview of the curriculum allocation for Junior School is outlined in this handbook.  A more detailed description of each subject area makes up the rest of this handbook.