Teaching & Learning

Parent Teacher Interviews

The Semester 2 Parent Teacher Interviews will be held on Tuesday 15th September, from 2:00pm to 7:00pm. These interviews are an important opportunity for parents and carers to meet with teachers and discuss their child’s academic progress, learning behaviour and overall wellbeing at school.

To help make the most of your interview time, families may wish to prepare by:

Talking with your child beforehand about how they feel they are going at school and if there are any subjects or challenges, they would like you to discuss with their teacher.
Reviewing recent Progress reports & Learning task results on Compass to understand your child’s academic progress and learning behaviour.
Checking your child’s attendance on Compass, as this can impact learning progress.

During the interviews, the most productive conversations occur when parents and teachers work together. Approaching discussions calmly, respectfully and with a solutions-focused mindset helps ensure the best outcomes for students. Teachers are always happy to celebrate student achievements and work with families to identify strategies to support improvement where needed.

Bookings for Parent–Teacher Interviews can be made via Compass from September 1st. Interpreters will be available on the night to support families who require translation services. We encourage all families to take this valuable opportunity to connect with teachers and support their child’s learning journey.

VCE - End of year practice examinations

To support students in preparing for the upcoming VCAA examinations, the school will be conducting Unit 3/4 and VET Practice Exams during Term 3, Week 10 and Term 4, Week 1.

English, EAL and English Language: Thursday 17th September Term 3, Week 10 (English & EAL exams -1:45pm – 5:00pm, English Language exam 1:45pm – 4:00pm).
All other VCE 3/4 subjects: Term 4, Week 1 during class time - please check Compass for your individual scheduled exam times.
Scored VET courses: Term 4, Week 1 during class time (courses include: Cookery, Sports, Aquatic & Recreation and Allied Health Assistant)

Practice exams play a vital role in helping students prepare for their final VCAA assessments. All students enrolled in a VCE Unit 3 & 4 subject are required to participate.

Sitting practice exams under authentic, timed conditions allows students to:

Experience the pressures and expectations of the actual examination period
Refine their time management skills
Apply their knowledge under exam conditions
Practice using Special provisions (as applicable)
Build confidence for their upcoming VCAA examinations

How parents can support their child

The exam period can be a stressful time for students. Parents can make a significant difference by:

Creating a supportive study environment – Provide a quiet, organised space with minimal distractions.
Encouraging healthy routines – Ensure your child gets enough sleep, eats well, and takes regular breaks during study sessions.
Promoting balance – Encourage time for exercise, hobbies, and social connection to reduce stress.
Being a positive presence – Offer encouragement, acknowledge their effort, and avoid adding pressure.
Monitoring for stress – Be aware of changes in mood, sleep patterns, or motivation, and seek support if needed.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to help our students achieve their personal best in the upcoming VCAA examinations.

Helping your child secure a Year 10 Work Experience Placement

As part of the Careers program offered at Keysborough Secondary College all Year 10 students have the opportunity to undertake a Work Experience placement during this year.

Work Experience is a valuable opportunity for students to explore future career options and gain firsthand insight into the world of work. It allows students to connect classroom learning with real-life skills, preparing them for life beyond school.

Work Experience placements help students:

Discover career interests
Develop practical real-world skills
Build confidence & independence
Learn about workplace expectations & communication

How parents can support their child to find a placement:

Chat with your child about their interests and career ambitions
Reach out to family, friends, or local businesses for a potential placement
Search online for employers/workplaces in your local area
Support your child in contacting businesses directly to request a placement
Year 9 students are encouraged to begin exploring potential placements for 2027, as many businesses are taking applications NOW, ready for next year.

Dates we do not support a placement:

Semester 2 exam period – (Term 4) 13th- 19th November
Headstart 2027 period – (Term 4) 23rd November - 4th December

If your child needs additional support to secure a placement, please don’t hesitate to contact the College Careers Team. We're here to help every student secure a meaningful placement.

Melissa Williams-Davis

Assistant Principal of Teaching and Learning