VCE VM – APPLIED LEARNING IN ACTION: making everyday count!

CELEBRATION ASSEMBLY

In Week 1 of Term 3, we took the opportunity to celebrate the many achievements within the VCE VM space. Our assembly recognised and congratulated students who demonstrated excellence across a range of areas, including academic achievement, personal growth, outstanding uniform compliance, and exemplary attendance. It was also a chance to reflect on the successes of Term 2—acknowledging the effort, dedication, and resilience shown by our students—and to set our sights on the rewarding yet challenging journey ahead in Term 3. Well done to all VCE VM students. Your ongoing commitment to the applied learning pathway, and the pride you take in your work and conduct, is something to be truly proud of. We look forward to seeing you continue to strive for excellence in the months ahead.

SUCCESS = WHAT? PRESENTATION

Late in term 2, students attended a workshop called Success = What? Presented by Arthur. Arthur spoke about being raised on welfare in a Greek migrant family, he was both School Captain and Dux of his final year. However, a few years into an Arts-Law degree, he made life-altering choices, committing several armed robberies, and spent years in prison. Since then, Arthur’s journey has been one of transformation and service. He has cleaned toilets, driven taxis, run men’s groups, supported at-risk youth and prisoners, advocated for marginalised people, featured in the media, and spoken extensively in schools and the community. Today, as a criminologist, Churchill Fellow, and writer, he dedicates most of his time to sharing the lessons he has learned with others. His presentation, Success = What?, draws on his extraordinary life story and his work with young people and prisoners. A gifted storyteller, Arthur inspired students to reflect on the importance of their education, career, relationships, choices and their consequences, as well as self-care, self-esteem, identity, aspirations, and what it truly means to be successful in life. The incursion directly aligns with the aims of the VM Personal Development Skills (PDS)curriculum. Through Arthur’s powerful storytelling and lived experiences, students were encouraged to examine their personal identity, values, and aspirations; consider the impact of their choices; and recognise the importance of resilience and contributing positively to their community. Arthurs journey reinforced the significance of education, self-worth, and social responsibility, core elements of the Personal Development Skills (PDS) curriculum.

SHARK TANK PRESENTATIONS

Year 12 VCE students recently undertook the challenge of ‘Shark Tank,’ presenting their ideas and initiatives in the McClelland College boardroom in the presence of the Literacy Team, Laura Spence (Principal) Andrew Hemsley (Assistant Principal), Melinda Dunstan (School Business Manager), and Rachel Vowels (Career Practitioner). To say they were nervous would be an understatement; however, every student participated, contributed their part, and waited anxiously to see if they could convince the Sharks to invest. What an achievement it was for these students to publicly speak, persuade, and respond to tough questions from the Sharks, who treated them not as students, but as young adults with impressive business acumen and genuine passion for their causes.

COURSE COUNSELLING

In Week 2, the VCE VM team undertook the rigorous and important process of course counselling for current Year 10 students transitioning into the applied learning pathway VCE VM, as well as Year 11 students preparing for Year 12 in 2026.This time of year, sparks meaningful conversations focused on careers, education, aspirations, and ultimately, students’ dreams for the future. It is an opportunity for students to explore their interests, strengths, and goals, while receiving guidance on the various pathways available to them. The key piece of advice we consistently share with students is this: there are no wrong decisions, only different pathways to success. Every choice opens new doors, and it’s important for students to understand that their journey is unique. With thoughtful planning and commitment, each pathway can lead to fulfilling and rewarding outcomes. We encourage students to approach this process with an open mind and a sense of confidence, knowing they are supported every step of the way. If they graduate in 2026/27, and they are curious and motivated, that is a win for the VCE VM teaching team!

SBAT LANSCAPING PROJECTS STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY CONNECTION

As part of their Certificate III in Parks and Gardens, our SBAT students recently participated in a volunteer project at the Somerville Community House, assisting with landscaping works to enhance the outdoor spaces. Their efforts were met with great appreciation from the local community, and the students demonstrated both skill and teamwork throughout the day.

In a generous show of hospitality, the Community House kindly provided a delicious homemade morning tea and lunch for the group, which was warmly received. The SBAT students were a particular highlight for the seniors in attendance, engaging in friendly conversations and fostering positive connections across generations. This experience not only allowed the students to develop their practical skills, but also strengthened community relationships and showcased the value of volunteer work.

INSPIRING CAREERS IN YOUTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

On Wednesday, 13 August, Certificate II Community Services students visited Frankston Youth Central and Headspace, Frankston. This excursion offered a wonderful opportunity for students to gain firsthand insight into the services and support networks available in the Frankston community for young people dealing with mental health challenges or seeking a safe space to connect, share, and contribute positively to their peer group and the broader community. The visit also encouraged students to consider pursuing careers in youth services and the array of meaningful roles that such a vocation can offer.

The excursion was much more than just a visit, it was an immersive learning experience. Students saw the inner workings of local mental health and youth support services, interacted with professionals across various disciplines, and witnessed how compassion, inclusion, and coordination create meaningful support for young people

CORNERSHOP CARNIVAL

It’s that time of year again when our Year 12 VCE VM students showcase their final project, the culmination of their secondary school educational journey. For many of them, this is the single largest and most meaningful piece of work they have undertaken, representing months of planning, collaboration, and perseverance. This year’s event is twice the size of last year’s, and to say the work involved has been anything less than challenging would be an understatement. The scale of the cohort alone has required extensive coordination, and the integration of all four VCE VM subjects, Personal Development Skills, Numeracy, Literacy, and Work Related Skills, has made this project both complex and highly rewarding. The depth of learning and skill application across these disciplines is something we can all be proud of.

The Cornershop Carnival is open to the school community from 3:10 pm to 4:00 pm, and we would love to see as many parents, carers, and friends there as possible!

Your presence makes a difference, come along to support our students, celebrate their hardwork, and enjoy a fun, vibrant event together. Let’s make this a memorable afternoon filled with community spirit and positivity!

We look forward to seeing you there!

UPCOMING DATES

11th September CornerShop Carnival - Year 11

15th September - Central Australia Excursion

19th September - Year 12 VCE VM formal classes have concluded

6th–10th October - Year 12 students WRS final presentations

21st October - Celebration Day - Year 12

28th October - 22km Gratitude Walk

4th November - Public Holiday

7th November - SBAT Parks & Gardens Graduation

20th November - Year 12 Valedictory

VCE VM GOALS

Raise Expectations, Embrace Change, Tackle Challenges, and Think Big

Dates to Remember

August

September