Leadership's Letter

Learning Diversity Report

A primary focus in the planning of learning and teaching at Mazenod College is to ensure that the objectives are the same for all students – including those with disabilities, additional learning needs, students for whom English is a second language and gifted and talented students.

Teacher planning of learning and teaching adjustments, whether related to the complexity of the curriculum, or focused on instructional and assessment strategies is important in providing a means by which all students can engage in learning and demonstrate their knowledge, skills and understanding.

For students with additional learning needs, illness or difficult personal circumstances there are supports available to ensure that they can participate in and successfully complete their secondary education.

The Victorian Curriculum & Assessment Authority (VCAA) outlines a range of provisions that can be accessed to support eligible students.

Special Provision provides students completing the VCE or VCE Vocational Major who are affected by illness, disability or other personal circumstances with an opportunity to participate in and complete their secondary level studies.

Special Provision is available for:

• classroom learning
• school-based assessments
• VCE external assessments.

(VCAA Website)

All applications for special provisions in VCE – ATAR or VM need to be approved by the Victorian Curriculum & Assessment Authority (VCAA)

Provisions are determined by a student’s specific diagnosis/illness or personal circumstances and vary accordingly.  Provisions are not granted on a “one size fits all” basis.  Examples of available provisions includes rest breaks, extra time, a clarifier.

The relevant eligible provisions are communicated to teachers, student and families. It is important to highlight that utilising these provisions from Year 7 (if applicable) ensures that a history of special provisions is maintained throughout the student’s secondary schooling.  This evidence is used by the school to support a student’s application to VCAA in VCE.

The provision of support in education is aimed at ensuring that all students can access learning in an equitable way.

The development of personal learning plans, adjustments to class work or teaching strategies, provisions for timed assessment and exams are all intrinsic in respecting the dignity of all in the learning environment at Mazenod College.

Anne Johnson

Director of Learning Diversity