YEAR 11-12 SCHOOLNEWS
Year 12 News
Just a reminder that we have a big couple of weeks in VCE coming up.
The GAT is on the 16th June for all students in year 12 (and any year 11’s doing a unit 3/4 subject). We will be holding an assembly closer to the date to ensure the students are aware of the processes and expectations around these assessments.
The GAT is in two parts; Part A will assess skills against new literacy and numeracy standards for all VCE and senior VCE-VM students. Part B is for students completing unit 3/4 VCE subjects and is an important part of the safety net in case a student falls ill or cannot sit an exam. It measures skills across a range of studies and communication.
Past GAT’s are available online on the VCAA website and time in mentor session have been given to show students the prompts and question types.
Students should be aware that a scientific calculator can be taken into both parts of the exam, but the Ti-Nspire graphics calculator is not allowed.
Year 12 English students will also be sitting a practice exam on Friday 12th during our student free day.
Our year 12 Mid year celebration is on Thursday 11th at Bellevue Reception Centre. Information has been sent out over the past couple of weeks and the event has been organised by the students – should be fun!
Finally, with an increase in colds and flu in and around town, it’s a timely reminder that if a SAC is missed due to illness, a Doctor’s certificate is required. This can be handed into the office or emailed to info@whc.vic.edu.au
Career conversations at Western Heights College
This week Western Heights College partnered with Head Start Barwon South West team to support students in the vocational major cohort as they explore future career pathways.
An amazing group of eight speakers from a variety of industries, gave their time to come and speak to VM senior school students about their career journeys.
In small group sessions, students asked each speaker what a typical day looked like, what other work they had done in the past and what kind of skills that helped them move from school into the workforce.
Across the hour-long session, students and industry professionals had the chance to connect, learn from one another, and gain a clearer picture of the many ways a career journey can unfold.
A big thank you to all the speakers who joined us. Your insights and encouragement make a real difference to our students as they plan their next steps.
Huge Congratulations to Ash Aulakh!
We are absolutely thrilled to share a massive update regarding Ash Aulakh (Year 11), who was recently shortlisted for the prestigious Lumiere Scholars Essay Award.
Out of more than 2,100 global entries spanning over 100 countries, Ash’s insightful essay on the moral duties of society regarding poverty and inequality didn't just stand out, we are incredibly proud to announce that Ash has officially been awarded the Excellence Award in the Lumiere Scholars Essay Award 2026 Spring competition.
This exceptional achievement is a testament to Ash's talent for original research, dedication, and ability to communicate complex ideas that challenge and move society forward.
Please join us in celebrating Ash for this well-deserved, world-class recognition!
SENIOR YEARS ART + DESIGN ENRICHMENT TOUR
SYDNEY | 26th – 29th APRIL 2027
Western Heights College + Belmont High School
An exciting opportunity is available for creative students currently entering Years 10–12 in 2027 to take part in a unique Art + Design Enrichment Tour to Sydney and Bundanon.
Students will spend three immersive days at Bundanon, the former property and studio of renowned Australian artist Arthur Boyd, located on the Shoalhaven River on Dhurga and Dharawal Country. The experience includes artist-led workshops and creative activities within the landscape. The tour also includes a day in Sydney visiting the studio of iconic Australian artist Brett Whiteley and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
Only 10 spots are available and we will be partnering with students and staff from Belmont High School to facilitate this opportunity.
Importantly, students do not need to be studying Art to apply. All creatively interested students are encouraged to express interest.
To express your interest please contact: allesha.fecondo@education.vic.gov.au
Online parent information sessions will be held in coming weeks.
