VUSC News Issue Eleven
Dear Families,
It is unbelievable to think that we are now into fourth term with Christmas seemingly just around the corner! I hope that the school holidays provided a wonderful break for one and all. It is fantastic to be back at school to see just how excited students are to again meet up with friends and continue their learning.
On behalf of the staff, I would like to thank all parents/guardians for your continued support of the school throughout the past three terms. Whether through your attendance at information evenings, coming along to Parent Teacher interviews, communicating through Compass or participating in parent meetings, I really appreciate and value the partnership we have with you. It is such an important part of the work we do together – guaranteeing the best possible education and pathways for your child.
Year 12’s
The academic year is soon going to wrap up for the Year 12 students, however before then there is a lot to do. Practice exams took place during the last week of Term 3 holidays where all Unit 3 & 4 students were expected to attend the practice exam for their subjects. This provided students the opportunity to see where improvement can be made prior to the VCAA exams.
Year 12 exams begin on 30th October so all Year 12 classes are revising the year’s work over the next few weeks. It is most important that students are at school every day to review their year’s learning and gain feedback on areas to concentrate on in preparation for the exams. Remember the quality of the work is most important so strong effort is essential. It is very easy to become complacent during this time as the end is in sight but I strongly encourage all Year 12 students to continue to push themselves and strive for excellence. The mentality that ‘near enough is good enough’ should not be the mindset at this stage of the year.
Year 11 exams will begin soon after the Year 12’s and the other year levels will follow. If there are any students who haven’t completed their outcomes they need to get these done very soon. Remember the quality of the work is most important so strong effort is essential.
2020 CURRICULUM PLANNING
In Term 3 all students at Victoria University Secondary College were involved in pathways and careers planning for 2020 and beyond. Our Year 12 students have participated in the VTAC Information sessions and are now putting in their preferences for tertiary study in 2020. Year 9, 10 and 11 students have completed their Course Counselling Interviews, and the Year 7 and 8 students have begun their Managed Individual Pathways (MIPs) planning and selecting their chosen electives for 2020. Next year, a particular focus for some of our Year 9 students will be to begin their VCE studies while in Year 10. This approach, known by a number of names - whether it be ‘Accelerated VCE’, or ‘VCE Enhancement’ is designed to support students' passion, interests and talents. We have been particularly pleased with the level of interest from students who wish to be involved in this program.
2020 INTENTIONS
Term 4 is the term in which we begin planning for 2020. The key aspect of my planning is to ensure the provision of the widest and most viable curriculum designed to cater to student pathways and choice. In order to assist with the planning for 2020, we ask that families who are aware that they may be transitioning out of Victoria University Secondary College to please let us know as soon as possible. We have a significant number of students on our waiting list and this will allow us to plan effectively for our classes in 2020. If you are moving out of the area or transitioning to a different educational provider, please let the following Leaders know:
Middle Years Engagement Leader (Years 7-9)---- Mr Brendan Saker
Later Years Engagement Leader (Years 10-12)----Mr Dan Sullivan
2020 Victorian Young Leaders to China Program
Once again we have successfully applied to be part of the Victorian Young Leaders to China program next year. Year 9 students studying Chinese will have the opportunity to spend 6 weeks in China in March/April 2020. This is a fabulous opportunity for these students and we will be seeking expressions of interest shortly. Last month, 17 students and 3 teachers undertook a 2 week study tour of China. They had a fantastic time visiting our sister school and seeing the sights in Beijing and Shanghai. I’m told they highly recommend it!
Throughout the year we surveyed parents about the quality of the parent information and participation evenings held at the end of each meeting. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Thank you so much for taking the time to fill out the surveys. Some parents also made suggestions for improvement. We are taking those on board and will implement them in subsequent events.
This term we have many events to celebrate our students' efforts and achievements. Please note the important dates published in this newsletter, on Compass and on our website, starting with the Sports Academy Presentation Evening this Wednesday at the Trade Training Centre.
Congratulations to Ali Yalcindag and George Cini of Year 12 (right) who were presented with Certificates for Acts of Bravery recently for their efforts in saving the life of a member of the public during the school holidays. Well done boys!
Finally, a reminder that all students should be wearing their full summer uniform in this term and Term 1 next year.
Elaine Hazim
College Principal
Child Safety
Victoria University Secondary College is a child safe organisation committed to protecting students from all forms of abuse.
Our College has stringent protocols in place and endeavours at all times to be fully compliant with the Child Safe Standards set out under Ministerial Order 870.
Our College has the following documents and policies in place to achieve compliance with the Standards. All of these documents are available for downloading on our website or contact the school for a copy.
- Commitment to Child Safety
- Child Safety Policy
- Child Safety Code of Conduct
- Child Protection Policy and Procedures