Deputy Principal's report

Term 2 - A crucial time for all students

The academic year is now reaching a pivotal time for all students at the College.  The expectation we have for our students is one of mutual respect for each other’s learning.  It is the collective attitude and effort of each and every student that will impact upon what the whole group can achieve.  VCE students need to be aware that they are not only striving to do their best, but are in fact competing with students at this College and from across the state for results that will secure their future pathway. 

Our VCAL students are engaged in studies in selected VET Programs either at the College or at TAFE and are also participating in mandatory work placements.  These work placements are designed to enhance their applied learning programs and assist them to develop a range of employability skills.

As we move through this term the emphasis on formal assessment will increase for all students.  All students are required to submit assessment tasks or SAC (School Assessed Coursework) in a timely manner that is in accordance with the expectation of the relevant teacher.  Where this does not occur parents will receive written notification.  It is important that all families within our community are familiar with the Student Attendance, Achievement and Promotion policy of the College. This policy outlines the minimum attendance requirements for students within each unit of study that they are engaged in and provides details regarding the requirements for students to progress from one year level to the next. The policy can be viewed on the College website – Current Students – Student Policies.

It is important for the parents of students completing VCE to be aware that one of the greatest stressors for the students in the final years of their education is parent-student relations. According to Dr. Michael Carr-Gregg (2004) “All parents, friends and relatives of a young person (completing VCE) should worry less about the quantity of work a student is engaging in and, instead, focus much more on their emotional wellbeing”.  From a parent’s perspective, it is best to adopt the role of the supportive bystander, eagerly cheering from the sidelines but not being a major player and to adopt the motto “I’m here to help and offer any advice I can when you need it”. Parents can ensure that students stick to the basics: making sure that they eat right, get plenty of sleep and regular exercise.  Positive reinforcement is the key. When you see a good effort is being made, it is useful to praise the student for it showing them that their dedication has been noticed. It is vital to maintain an open line of communication with your son/daughter; conversations reduce the likelihood of serious misunderstandings, particularly during stressful times.

There is a huge amount of research data that states that when parents are involved in their children’s education at home, their children perform better at school. This performance is further enhanced, if there is a good relationship between teacher and parent based on mutual respect and trust.

Jeff Mulcahy

Deputy Principal