Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning

Five careers. Seventeen different employers. Recent research suggests that todays’ graduates will need to be flexible and be able to adapt to the changing demands of the future workforce. So how do we help our young men and women prepare for that new world of study and work?

At The Hamilton and Alexandra College we believe that choosing what you love and being open to learning new things is what keeps a course interesting and engaging.

This week we launched our new EMERGE Information Platform and invited students and their parents to learn more about the depth of learning available in year 10, 11 and 12 programs.  There has been a real buzz around the school this week as students and teachers have started talking about curriculum, choices, and career pathways. I want to reassure our college families that subject selection is a process, and as such it takes time. 

1. In Term 2, it begins with the Launch of the EMERGE Information Session.
2. After reading the handbook, and asking teachers questions, students start to narrow down their ideal program.
3. Students select subjects
4. Students and parents are then invited to an interview in early Term 3 to confirm that their subject choices are appropriate and fit the student’s capabilities and career trajectory. 
5. Later in the term students receive confirmation of their subjects.
6. At the end of Term 4, students Step Up into our end of year transition program that gives each student in year 10,11 and 12 a head start on their learning in EMERGE.

EMERGE is when students start to focus on the subject areas that they are passionate about and build in more depth and rigour into their learning program. Some of our students commit to exploring languages, literature, or the study of History Revolutions. There is more choice in specialist areas in Science and Mathematics. In 2021, we have had several of our year 10 students study Unit 1 and 2 Psychology and Business Management and others who have undertaken Unit 3 and 4 courses in Software Development. For others, Emerge marks the beginning of VETDSS, Vocational Education and Training (VET) delivered in Secondary Schools in an area of interest like Agriculture Science, Hospitality or Automotive. 

We know our students at The Hamilton and Alexandra College, and we are proud to say that we work with our students and parents to find the right course for each student.

Mrs Susan Bradbeer

Deputy Principal of Teaching and Learning

Advice for VCE Students

The work that students do in the holiday break will contribute to their confidence and academic success at the end of the year. Whilst it is important for VCE students to have an opportunity for rest over the coming weeks, we ask parents to encourage and support their son/daughter to also set aside dedicated study time and to ensure that all holiday homework tasks are completed. Individual subject teachers will be providing specific instructions in regard to revision work to be completed over the holiday break. Time should also be spent on GAT preparation. Please remember to access the GAT resources on Teams and work through several of the past GAT papers. 

Mrs Rebekah Bonnett

Head of VCE Studies and Head of Science