Mathematics in 2026: Clarity. Confidence. Capability.

Dear Heathmont families,

It is with great excitement that I introduce myself as the new Co-Leader of the Mathematics Faculty, working alongside Kerryn Sandford. I am honoured to help shape the future of Mathematics at Heathmont College.

Mathematics is more than formulas and equations. It is the foundation of logical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding the world around us. Our vision for 2026 is clear: to build confident, capable, and curious mathematical thinkers in every classroom.

This year, we are continuing our work with the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0, with a strong focus on clear and explicit teaching. In practical terms, this means lessons that are structured, supportive, and purposeful.

Students will experience:

Clear explanations and step-by-step modelling
Guided practice before independent work
Regular review of key concepts to strengthen long-term understanding

When students understand both the what and the why, confidence grows, and so does achievement.

INVESTING IN GREAT TEACHING

Outstanding student outcomes begin with outstanding teaching. We are embedding instructional coaching within the Maths faculty, allowing teachers to collaborate, observe one another, and refine their practice.

We are also launching a “Teach the Teacher” model of professional learning, where staff share expertise and learn from one another. When teachers grow, students thrive.

STRONG FOUNDATIONS THROUGH DAILY PRACTICE

You may hear your child mention short daily review activities at the beginning of lessons. These are intentional. Regular retrieval of prior learning strengthens understanding and builds fluency over time, helping students approach more complex problems with resilience.

MATHEMATICS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

This year we are strengthening our Maths @ Home focus with meaningful, discussion-based tasks. Rather than simply increasing homework, we aim to create opportunities for real-world conversations; budgeting, analysing data, planning projects and solving everyday challenges. Our goal is to help students see mathematics as a living subject that shapes their world.

Let us know how you incorporate numeracy into your daily life, we’d love to hear your ideas!

DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

Years 11 and 12

Edrolo is a comprehensive learning system designed to offer 24/7 support to students. It consists of video theory lessons aligned to the study design, and is delivered by expert teacher-presenters. It also includes a large number of practice questions with exemplar solutions that are automarked for multiple-choice questions to give you instant feedback. Knowledge and skills-based questions build your confidence and the technical skills for school assessments. Teachers will use the data from student engagement to target support and make sure your child is on track with their studies throughout the year. Your child can access the course materials on Edrolo at any time, and also flag content to revisit or where they need extra support from their teacher. Edrolo is used by 95% of schools across Victoria, including the Top 20 performing high schools.

Year 7 and 8

Education Perfect is a comprehensive digital learning and assessment platform that supports your child’s learning across subjects. In Mathematics, it is used extensively to support structured homework modules, diagnostic pre- and post-testing, targeted data analysis, and responsive learning tasks that address specific student needs as they arise. As it is accessible anytime online or through the app, EP allows learning to continue beyond the school day, making homework and revision more meaningful and connected to what’s taught in class

Continued access to these digital platforms is essential. Please note that students with outstanding payments may have their access temporarily removed. If you require assistance or would like to discuss payment options, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help and want to ensure every student can continue accessing this important learning

NAPLAN 2026

A reminder that NAPLAN testing will take place in Week 7, from Wednesday 11 March to Tuesday 17 March. Further details, including specific session times and requirements, will be communicated to families via Compass closer to the testing period.

ENRICHMENT FOR ALL

Every student deserves both support and challenge.

Alongside my role as Co-Leader of Mathematics, I have also been appointed Learning Specialist for Enrichment and Engagement. This allows us to thoughtfully trial and embed enrichment strategies within our Maths classrooms.

Year 8 students will be part of a pilot targeted enrichment program for High-Ability learners, focused on complex problem-solving and advanced reasoning.
Year 9 students will engage in a range of rich and challenging learning experiences designed to support every learner. These tasks move beyond simply following steps, helping students develop deeper understanding, confidence, and strong problem-solving skills.
Year 10 students may elect Advanced Mathematics as a pathway toward future VCE study.

Across all year levels, our aim is not simply higher marks; it is independent thinking, strong reasoning, and the courage to tackle complex problems.

Our goal is to nurture talent, spark curiosity, and create clear pathways for excellence, ensuring that every student is both supported and stretched.

As we begin the year, we do so with optimism and purpose. We believe every student can grow in Mathematics, and we look forward to partnering with you in that journey.

Warm regards,

Joanne Ganis (Valis)

Co-Leader, Mathematics Faculty

Heathmont College

joanne.ganis@education.vic.gov.au

Heathmont Gazette

Curiosity, Compassion, Community

Issue 2 · 20 Feb 2026

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