Learning and Teaching 

Parents and Carers

Habits Rubric

Earlier this year, we implemented the use of the Habits Rubric across all classes at St Bede’s College. It has been used by all teachers to make an assessment of behaviours displayed by students that have a clear relationship with learning. As indicated at the time, this rubric would be reviewed mid-year and refined as required.

Feedback was sought from parents, teachers and students and included the need for simplification as well as a clearer delineation between the different standards of the rubric. As such, we have made what we believe to be the appropriate changes and will be using the rubric in both Term 3 and 4 and on into 2023. A copy of the rubric is attached below.

We will also be looking to use the rubric as a means of monitoring progress throughout a student’s time at the College. High achievement in such habits - mostly ‘Commendable’ and ‘Excellent’ results for all four criteria - will be recognised and lower achievement - particularly ‘Unacceptable’ and ‘Below Expectations’ - a cause for intervention. In recent weeks, students in Years 9 and 10 have applied to accelerate into VCE subjects; in some cases where results were not quite where they needed to be, the habits assessments were used to make a judgement. 

At St Bede’s College, we are committed to providing an environment where students are encouraged to achieve their best and the means by which to get there is explicit. We believe the habits rubric will support this and, as such, recognise its value to all students. We encourage all families to engage in ongoing conversation regarding where improvement can come from and will continue to support all students in their endeavours.

General Achievement Test and VCE Unit 3/4 Trial Exams

Year 12 students, as well as those in Year 11 completing Unit 3/4 subjects, were recently given a briefing on the General Achievement Test (GAT). This is a general abilities test that measures literacy and numeracy abilities, amongst others, for students in their final years. It takes place on 7 September, with all Unit 3/4 students expected to be in attendance.

It is worth noting that, in the case of an illness or misadventure that prevents any student from either attending or performing their best in their exam, the GAT is used to calculate their study score. This was made clear to all students and we encourage them to familiarise themselves with what will be required on the day in preparation and to give it their best efforts.

Following on from this, all Unit 3/4 students will commence their Trial Exams the following Wednesday 14 September at 9.00am. Conversations have been ongoing since Flying Start last year regarding exam preparation and performance, with that time now drawing near.

The importance of the final VCE subject exam in determining final study scores cannot be overstated, with these trial exams forming a significant part in the preparation for these exams. The Trial Exams are compulsory and will run from the 14 September (the final week of Term 3) until the following Wednesday 21 September. A timetable has been distributed to all Unit 3/4 students via email.

Brenden Mair

Deputy Principal

Teaching and Learning