Secondary Education West - February 2023

Celebrating all life Challenging all people Dreaming the new day

St Monica’s College, Epping

ST Monica’s College, Epping is a Catholic coeducational College based in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. The College was established in 1964 and has two campuses in Epping for students in years 7 to 12. We also have our country campus Ostia at Strath Creek.

Our facilities are first class and we continue to upgrade our buildings as demonstrated by the three building programs undertaken during the COVID 19 challenges. This includes a new Science and Technology building to better serve our STEM students, the Cooinda Building which will provide modern teaching and learning areas for students, as well as a complete rebuild of the Beehive, our technology centre based on Davisson Street campus.

Our College strongly endorses co-education. Choosing co-education for your child is the right choice. Co-education reflects the real-life realities your child will face.

Co-education assists significantly in breaking down sexist attitudes in both genders. Boys and girls learn in a natural classroom environment, not sheltered away from each other and in this normal way appropriate respect ought to develop between the genders. In the coeducational classroom, both female and male perspectives are explored, thus greater understanding between the sexes, more consideration of points of view, and increased development of individuals both intellectually and socially.

Truly, co-education reflects the diversity of society. Co-education, in other words, is the real world. Accordingly, students are better prepared to enter the workforce, more capable of coping in post-secondary educational institutions, and more confident to involve themselves in discussions and activities with the opposite sex.

Our College offers one of the broadest curriculum choices of any school. Our subject choices will meet the needs of almost any student. We embrace modern teaching methods and ensure that we are always looking at ways to improve what we do. Students at St Monica’s College, Epping can be assured that they will have every opportunity and all the support they need to reach their highest standards, supported by a teaching staff committed to their success.

The College is also renowned for an excellent

sporting program. Our choice of sports is extensive and our coaching utilises experts in their sports. Our Sporting Academies ensure our athletes have whatever they need to excel in their chosen sport with gymnasiums on campus as well as a high-performance centre for advanced training. We make sure that whilst students have the opportunity to develop their sporting excellence that they do not do so at the cost of their education.

Our College also offers an accelerated learning program for students. HORIZONS caters for highly able students through a program that meets their advanced educational needs.

Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder are well supported by our Arrunga Inclusion Program. This program focuses on the achievement of positive academic, social and emotional outcomes for each student to maximise their education and future employment opportunities.

Our Performing Arts Faculty is also well regarded. Whether it be dance, drama or music, students have the opportunity to develop and showcase their talents. The College regularly has performances and showcases for our performing arts students. Our Visual Arts Faculty includes design, photography, media and art and students have the opportunity to explore and develop their talent in these areas.

St Monica’s College, Epping welcomes a diverse cohort of students with the assurance that we will ensure that each and every one has the best opportunity to be their best. At our College, no student is left behind.

Brian E. Hanley, OAM B.A., Dip. Ed.,

Admin., M. Ed., MACE, FACEL College Principal

Grad. Dip. Ed.

Assumption College

START your learning journey with Assumption College. Enjoy smaller class sizes and an individualised learning program that gives your child choice and an abundance of opportunity.

Assumption College is a co-educational day and boarding school providing an inclusive learning environment with a view to preparing students for all aspects of life. We have redefined the way we deliver our curriculum to ensure students can flourish, grow and be diverse learners.

We have replaced the traditional four-year curriculum across Years 7 to 10 with our groundbreaking ‘myMAP’ program aimed at fostering Mastery, Autonomy and Purpose to enable a culture of connection, ownership, and engagement with learning.

Students have access to multiple experiences and hundreds of different learning pathways allowing them to set their learning pace, targets, and itinerary.

Assumption College has a unique learning and teaching environment. At 100 acres (over 40 hectares) our generous school property gives access to: impressive sporting grounds, a new community pavilion, a working farm, a MasterChef like kitchen and the Marlhes Restaurant, well-resourced library, dance studio, drama and music spaces, arts and technology centre, animal studies centre, gymnasium (incorporating fitness room) and boarding houses

– all encouraging diverse skill development.

Our Boarding students can choose the sevenday full time boarding option or return home at weekends with the five-day academic boarding program. They can take advantage of additional academic support, tutoring and study support. Healthy and nutritious meals are prepared on-site by a chef.

Boarding families at Assumption College come from all over Australia including regional Victoria and metro Melbourne. Our Boarders can access the finest education while living in a secure and supportive environment.

Start your journey with us. Enrolments at Assumption College for Year 7 2025 now open. Boarding applications for 2023 and 2024 currently open.

For more information, visit assumption.vic.edu.au Find out what makes us a College of choice.

We have redefined the way we deliver our curriculum to ensure students can flourish, grow and be diverse learners.

OUR COLLEGE PILLARS

THAT BRING TO BEING THE BUNDOORA DIFFERENCE

We highly value academic excellence and we equally value the development of engaged, resilient, compassionate and caring global citizens who will contribute positively in the rapidly changing, globally connected digital age.

Bundoora Secondary College connects with our local and wider community to ensure students value their place in the world, and understand the potential of their contribution to that world. Students should contribute significantly to the decision making process and operation of their school, as well as making a genuine contribution to their community. Our college has a dynamic and dedicated parent community who are integral in making our school even better.

Bundoora Secondary College encourage students to explore entrepreneurial opportunities, links with the wider community and the 21st century notion of ‘anytime, anywhere’ learning. Students have opportunities to accelerate their learning, combine their education with real life experience, and turn their pathway dreams into reality.

We prepare our students for life after school by offering students a learning environment where they can discover and embrace their passions.

Learning is an exciting, lifelong journey, where the challenge is to discover and pursue our passions, which contribute to the greater good. Education is not just about preparing for a changing future, but instead engaging with the world in meaningful ways each day. Young people have a far greater global reach than previous generations and should take advantage of this, to not only benefit themselves, but to benefit others.

We celebrate diversity and difference. Everyone has the right to a safe place where they are recognised and celebrated for being themselves. Our students are supported by a caring community that champions trust, respect and inclusiveness.

Our young people take control of their decision making, learning pathways and learning methods. We believe the best schools know the needs and hopes of their students and supports them to make their mark on the world.

Age is not a restricting factor in giving young people the opportunity to display their learning. Our students are not bound by the traditional year level classes - instead, learning is broken down into Entry Year, PACE21 and VCE/VCAL. This vertical offering of subjects gives students choice and provides flexibility in the learning program ensuring that all students are engaged in their learning at their point of interest and challenged at their point of need. Yes is the default. ‘YES’, unless it takes too much time, too much money, or negatively impacts on someone else. With support and accurate information, students are capable of making appropriate decisions in their own best interests. Bundoora Secondary College promotes Voice, Choice and Control in all students. We work together to help our students find and use their voice and we believe students learn best and are better prepared for the challenges of life when they take control and ownership of ‘their choices’.

Students need to be able to shine their own light — in ways that express the unique value they bring to the world. When students shine their own light, their learning is deeper.

We work with our young people to embrace an entrepreneurial (opportunistic) mindset and skills - both valuable and transferable through all aspects of life. This mindset is vital to be able to participate in the rapidly changing world that we live in, now and in the future.

We measure growth and individual wellbeing, as well as achievement and excellence across a range of areas not just literacy and numeracy. This is both an individual and collective responsibility.

We recently secured a $10 million refurbishment grant which will upgrade student and staff facilities.

WE ARE COMMITTED TO ALWAYS DEVELOPING OUR SCHOOL!

OUR MISSION

WELCOME TO BUNDOORA SECONDARY COLLEGE

Our core purpose is to provide a broad and challenging education in order to develop our student’s 21st Century skills, abilities and knowledge needed as a foundation for further education, training, work and community participation.

Bundoora Secondary College aims to develop graduates who are well-rounded individuals with multiple options and strong values to guide their conduct in the school and broader community. We live by our school values, the five Rs; Respect, Responsibility, Resilience, Relationships and Rigour. Families and carers are welcome and valued members of the school community and play a proactive role in their children’s learning. Our PAL is key to our strong sense of community across the school. Students are known and cared for, celebrated for who they are and supported by all members of the community in their learning. We each have our own strengths and talents and work best when we are happy and able to follow and explore our passions and interests. Our Innovative education model informed by Future school Australia, Big Picture education, Montessori, International Baccalaureate.

PATHWAYS

REMOVING MANY TRADITIONAL RESTRICTIONS TO LEARNING

ENTRY

Entry students are well supported in their transition to Bundoora Secondary College from Primary School. (Traditionally Year 7)

VCE•VCE VM

VCE and VCE VM are both offered as pathway choices in the senior years and these pathways can be blended if desired.

(Traditionally Year 11-12)

VET

PACE21

Students will choose from many possible electives, designing their own personalised learning pathway. (Traditionally Year 8-10)

UNIVERSITY PATHWAYS

Bundoora Secondary College offers VET units on campus or in partnership with neighbouring schools and TAFEs in the area.

Bundoora Secondary College students have the unique opportunity to undertake first year university studies.

Empowering a lifelong love of learning, to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College

CAROLINE Chisholm Catholic College proudly supports the secondary education of students in Melbourne’s west. Our unique offering sees students learn in a single-sex environment during their formative years at separate all-girls and allboys campuses, before moving to our senior coeducational campus. Being close to a range of public transport options it a school of choice for many families.

Our College is dedicated to learning excellence in an engaged, faith-filled and supportive environment giving students ample opportunities to succeed during their time at our College. We encourage all students to participate in a range of activities outside of academics including sport, music programs, the College musical production, social justice initiatives; just to name a few.

Our Personal Development Program, introduced in 2022, sees students explore a range of skills and competencies that we believe are essential for life post-secondary schooling. They will develop the knowledge to allow them to meet the challenges of the 21st century and become life-long learners. These skills include communication, teamwork and critical thinking.

To ensure that we deliver the best opportunities for our students, we focus on three elements of

our education: Religion, Academic and Pastoral Care.

Religion

Our goal as a Catholic community is to remain faithful to the mission of the Church in proclaiming the faith and work of Jesus Christ. We endeavour to live out the philosophy of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in every aspect of school life.

Academic

We provide a wide variety of opportunities across the academic curriculum, including VCE, VET and VCE VM (Vocational Major) programs, as well as a comprehensive co-curricular program. Our pathways are extensive, giving all students the opportunity to succeed in their education and beyond.

Pastoral Care

The College provides a rich pastoral care program that supports students throughout their time at the College. We value positive relationships and partnerships between the College, home and community. We provide students a safe, caring and enjoyable learning environment which aims to motivate and challenge them to achieve and be the best they are called to be.

Our vision is that young people feel connected to our school and take pride in being a student here. They develop into inquisitive, literate and numerate life-long learners with a strong sense of community.

We deliver a rich curriculum that motivates students to be engaged in their academic learning. Student data is used to inform and support both academic and wellbeing needs. We provide a nurturing learning environment that inspires high academic expectations and prioritises health and wellbeing to ensure each student feels safe, valued and respected as an equal member of our school community.

Grade 6 to Year 7 Transition

We put significant efforts into Year 7 transition because we know how important it is. The transition programs we conduct as students move from Grade 6 to Year 7 provide us with a general overview of each student’s learning abilities, strengths, interests and challenges. We utilise this data to offer additional supports in Literacy and Numeracy, and to ensure that each student is extended to their fullest ability. Students are supported with multiple visits, additional small group afternoons, primary school visits by school leaders and the support of our professional well-being team.

Student Leadership Program

Student leaders across the College are formally trained to lead their peers and the community. Students from all year levels are provided with leadership opportunities.

Deaf Facility

At Charles La Trobe P-12 College we provide access to education for all students. Our Deaf Facility, established in 1984, provides highly individualised programs for students with a bilateral, sensory-neural moderate to profound hearing loss.

La Trobe University

Students at our College excel by embracing opportunities provided through our official partnership with La Trobe University. Students have access to university facilities and participate in university programs.

Quantum Victoria

Quantum Victoria is a specialist Science and Maths centre that is an integral part of Charles La Trobe College delivering programs in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

Clubs & Extra-curricula

We know that the events that young people remember when they look back on their time at school are often those moments that were life-changing, or brought them into contact with a new life-time friend. These moments frequently fall outside of normal class. We are proud of our Extra-curricular program which includes:

Our college is a diverse and vibrant organisation, where we ensure each part of the organisation thrives as a unique setting, while building powerful connections to each other. Regardless of the setting, we are committed to providing enrichment education experiences for all our students. We pride ourselves on being a community that welcomes all students and families.

We support students to develop strong interpersonal and social capabilities as well as to strive to attain academic achievement. The education programs on offer across the College enable each student to achieve to their full potential as teachers personalise learning to meet the individual needs, interests and abilities of all students. Our goal is for all students to become self-directed learners who are able to take responsibility for their learning, both at and beyond school.

Copperfield College

Solar Buddy Incursion

COPPERFIELD College invited Solar Buddy to run an amazing program for the Year 7 and 8 students that promoted social awareness and developed global citizenship.

Solar Buddy is an organisation that exists to create awareness and tackle the issues surrounding energy poverty by gifting innovative, sustainable solutions to illuminate the lives of children worldwide.

Partnering up with Air Trunk who generously donated 650 bulbs for Year 7 and 8 students to assemble, volunteers from Air Trunk and Solar Buddy visited the Kings Park and Sydenham junior campus to give a brief presentation on energy poverty and how using renewable energy can help people living in such conditions.

The students were educated on the ways by which renewable energy is generated and in particular how solar energy can be used by devices to keep them running for a lifetime without ever having to be charged using electricity!

After the presentation, each student was provided with a kit that contained the parts that needed to be assembled to make a light bulb that was powered using solar energy. The students thoroughly enjoyed using their STEM skills to

build the bulb and the excitement was palpable as students proudly displayed their fully assembled lightbulbs.

Following the activity, each student wrote a letter that was to be sent with their assembled lightbulb to a student living in a country suffering from energy poverty.

The students wrote with real passion and were so thrilled that they were able to do something locally that had an impact globally.

It was truly an illuminating experience for all students and staff involved knowing that it is possible to connect communities across the world through the power of education.

Educating the students at Copperfield College on sustainable innovations that can be developed through immersive STEM activities helped to enlighten them that creativity and problem solving strategies are so valuable to develop new ideas that can help support underprivileged communities worldwide.

Copperfield College plans to continue this initiative with Solar Buddy for the foreseeable future and hopes to continue to produce students that are proud global citizens and continue to develop the skills that will enable them to hopefully make a worldwide impact themselves one day.

EMPOWERING EVERY STUDENT TO ASPIRE AND ACHIEVE

Parents and students choose Copperfield College because of our success. We support students to create and realise their individual learning pathways though our expert and caring teaching and support staff. We invest in people to meet students’ needs.

With excellent VCE results, we are noticed as having one of the highest rates of students successfully completing Year 12 in our community.

I am proud that all of our students are supported to optimise their learning growth and leave the College as young articulate adults, confident about their place in the world.

I encourage you to consider a rounded education at Copperfield College as your first option.

I invite you to book a tour of our campuses and meet our wonderful students and staff.

Pip

Griffiths College Principal

St Francis Catholic College

A NEW era in Catholic secondary eduaction in Melton has begun with the launch of St Francis Catholic College (formerly Catholic Regional College Melton) and the addition of a new campus to the well-respected, co-educational school.

Drawing on the rich history and strong foundations established in the past 40 years at our Melton West Campus, the College will offer new facilities and educational opportunities for the growing population in Melbourne’s north-west corridor.

Cobblebank Campus welcomed 150 Year 7 students this year and will grow to accommodate up to 1500 Year 7 to 12 students by 2028.

Inclusive learning pathways

St Francis Catholic College is recognised for its focus on faith, wellbeing and inclusive learning pathways.

We aim to equip students with the skills and disposition that allow them to flourish and make a meaningful contribution to our local and global society.

We develop in our students a desire to be models of Christ, called to place their faith into action. They are encouraged to participate in outreach programs through our suite of social justice activities.

While respecting individual differences, we challenge each other to use our talents to benefit all in our community. We foster an appreciation for quality education and teach students to embrace inclusion.

The College’s comprehensive co-curricular program encourages involvement, leadership, community spirit, physical engagement, artistic endeavour and teamwork. Our programs affirm students, acknowledge their gifts and talents and cater to the diverse ways in which they learn –whether in the sporting arena, creative arts or through science and technology.

Our House system develops a strong sense of belonging among students as they progress from Year 7 to 12 with learning mentors and students from all year levels.

St Francis Catholic College offers:

■ Flexible learning options that provide all students with successful pathways into postsecondary education.

■ Wellbeing and pastoral programs that focus on inclusion and belonging.

■ Facilities including a two-court, 800+ seat stadium, 250-seat performing arts centre and trade training centre.

■ New STEAM facilities at our Melton West and Cobblebank campuses.

■ Various Vocational Education and Training (VET) options. We are a Western Edge Cluster school.

■ Bi-annual theatre productions and one-on-one instrumental music lessons.

■ Cultural immersions to Italy and Cape York.

■ A broad range of sporting opportunities, including participation in Sports Association of Catholic Co-educational Secondary Schools (SACCSS) competitions.

Successful transition from primary to secondary school.

At St Francis Catholic College we recognise that a successful transition to secondary school is integral to a young student’s future.

The curriculum in Year 7 is diverse and caters to student needs and interests, including those who need extra support and those who require extension.

We aim to engage all students in an innovative curriculum that nurtures their love of learning, develops their sense of self-worth and encourages aspiration and ambition.

CATHOLIC REGIONAL COLLEGE CAROLINE SPRINGS

Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs is a young, vibrant, and ever evolving school with outstanding new facilities and vast opportunities.

We offer a rigorous learning environment, an extensive wellbeing, co-curricular and cultural immersion program and a deep commitment to faith and social justice. We aim to inspire our students to pursue academic excellence, express their creativity and embrace opportunities for leadership and service.

We are proud to model our values on the example and message of Jesus in the Gospels, and we do this daily, through our commitment to our College motto of “Live Fully Act Justly”. We encourage our students to make the most of what life has to offer, to strive to be their very best and, in doing so, to remember to be just to themselves and to others.

We also fully embrace our four College pillars: Stewardship, Prayer, Compassion and Learning. We are committed to providing a contemporary, comprehensive, and innovative learning environment that ensures all students are given every opportunity to reach their full potential.

We are a learning-focused school where as individuals and as a whole school community we strive for continuous growth with an emphasis on improving learning outcomes.

Catholic Regional College St Albans

CHOOSING a school for your child is an exciting but challenging time, especially for families who are preparing their first child for secondary school. There are many options and it can be difficult to know where to begin. However, parents know their child, and the process of looking at different schools will help clarify which is the best fit for their child and family.

Families often ask us what makes our school different. The first things that come to mind is that we are a strong faith community where learning, wellbeing and family all matter. We celebrate and embrace the rich cultural diversity of our local community and endeavour to live as a community without borders.

We offer a broad learning program that engages both girls and boys and challenges them to be the best that they can be. Our students are encouraged to explore their faith, to care for others, to become active global citizens and to do their personal best in all things.

Secondly, I think that our school is just the right size for young people as they navigate adolescence to become young adults. With 125 students at each year level, we are small enough to ensure that students are known, have a strong sense of belonging and feel safe. At the same time, we are big enough to offer a broad and engaging learning program. I would describe the College as a small school with big opportunities.

Lastly, our dedicated staff, strong relationships

with families, primary to secondary transition program and our links with parishes and the local community are all strengths of our school.

Co-curricular activities are an important part of the secondary education experience and prospective students and their families are often keen to know more about these. Activities range from the community garden, various clubs and sporting activities, to the school production, choir, homework club and cultural nights. The co-curricular program changes over time, depending on the interests of students and staff. Further details and a virtual tour are on the College website.

I hope this brief insight into our school will help you in making a decision about secondary education and I welcome your interest in the College. If you have further questions, we are happy to chat by phone or set up a meeting.

Christina Utri, Principal www.crcstalbans.catholic.edu.au

We offer a broad learning program that engages both girls and boys and challenges them to be the best that they can be.

Craigieburn Secondary College

AT Craigieburn Secondary College we have high expectations of our students, teachers, parents, curriculum programs and the broader community. Students and staff strive to “be their best” in all aspects of College life. Our focus is to ensure every student engages with their learning and is challenged to achieve beyond their potential.

Our teaching code of practice is underpinned by a rigorous instructional framework that ensures that there is consistency in the delivery of high level educational programs. We believe when there is an environment of excellence in every classroom then students will achieve their full potential.

Our programs at Craigieburn Secondary College are stimulating, rewarding and forward looking; they encourage the highest standard of achievement in every activity undertaken by our students. Academic studies and work preparedness are enhanced by personal development, cultural skills, social growth and self-fulfilment. At Craigieburn Secondary College we are committed to the development of our students into well educated, confident young adults, well prepared for a fulfilling and successful future.

The wellbeing and engagement of every new student is an important priority for all Craigieburn teaching and support staff. Our Year 7 students thrive within the supportive environment of the College’s small team approach. Students commence each day under the care of their Personal Learning Time Teacher as their first level of support. Personal Learning Time Programs and a Year 7 Orientation Program quickly promotes confidence and a sense of belonging in our young students to ensure a seamless transition into College life.

The College is organised into sub-schools with a strong emphasis on support for all students’ transition into school and throughout their educational journey. Programs are specifically tailored to build relationships between teachers and students and to meet the individual learning needs of students as they progress through the year levels.

Strong Foundations

Our Year 7 and 8 programs provide a solid foundation for future success by embedding literacy, numeracy and the use of Information and Communication Technologies across all subjects in the curriculum.

Students’ curiosity is heightened through the building of thinking skills and enquiry learning.

Junior school students enjoy access to a broad and engaging curriculum and are supported by tailored learning programs in English and Maths which meet their individual learning needs.

Good study habits, regular homework and pride in achievement are expected, encouraged and rewarded.

Initiative, personal responsibility for learning and a strong sense of commitment is central to life in Years 11 and 12. A highly disciplined and collaborative work ethic among staff and students support each student’s quest for VCE success and successful career pathways. Students have the opportunity to start VCE subjects in Year 10 in order to enhance their ATAR score upon completion of Year 12. Our vocational programs also provide credit toward the VCE and TAFE courses. Craigieburn Secondary College is proud of its senior students, many of whom achieve outstanding results. They graduate as selfdirected, confident young adults, well prepared for the post-secondary world of tertiary study, vocational training or direct employment.

All students are encouraged to undertake enhancement, extension and acceleration programs. Consolidation programs support individual needs. Students are strongly encouraged to make a commitment to community service with student leaders making valuable contributions to school life. College Captains, Sub-school Captains, House Captains and SRC representatives take an active role in decision making within the college.

Innovative teaching programs, staff commitment to ongoing professional development and outstanding physical resources enable the College to deliver a fulfilling educational experience.

CRAIGIEBURN SECONDARY COLLEGE

CRAIGIEBURN SECONDARY COLLEGE

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www.craigieburnsc.vic.edu.au

Essendon Keilor College

ESSENDON Keilor College is a multi-campus college that has served the needs of the community for over 100 years and continues to provide excellent educational opportunities for all students.

Our vision is to develop accomplished citizens who contribute, live meaningfully and succeed

Our two junior campuses deliver a program designed to meet the needs of students in Years 7 to 9. The senior campus provides a diverse curriculum at Years 10 to 12, including VCE, VET and VCAL, preparing all students to progress to further study and training.

Our graduates frequently return to tell us about their lives since leaving school. They all remark on how much they value the education they received at Essendon Keilor College.

The college recently completed an $11 million rebuilding program to provide outstanding facilities and STEM learning centres for 21st century teaching and learning.

Our college operates in a culturally diverse community and offers a breadth of educational services that support the aspirations of our students and their wide range of needs.

At Essendon Keilor College, students are not just one of a crowd. We know that every student is different, with different aspirations, needs and dreams. This makes the college a unique and exciting place to learn. Our dedicated junior schools focus on early learning and building solid educational skills, friendships and a sense of belonging. The personalised approach to teaching and learning continues at our senior campus in Essendon, and because there are many pathways to a successful career that run alongside the ATAR system, we make sure that each of our senior students can find their own path to tertiary education, vocational training and employment.

Our individual and personal approach to teaching and learning is the hallmark of our school, and why you can be sure that you are attending a college where your education will really matter. Our college is well known for the excellence of our academic programs, with the specialist senior campus offering VCE, VET and

VCAL, and with our graduates progressing to a wide range of pathways.

Our 2021 Dux, Minh Pham, is studying Architecture at Swinburne University as our students excelled across a range of disciplines and are furthering their education at universities across Australia.

The College has a number of specialist programs. There is an elite sport program, run in partnership with Victoria University which prepares students for careers in the Sport and Recreation industry. Our College is known for its Performing Arts program and we also specialise in teaching languages other than English working closely with local primary schools to foster the learning of languages at an early age.

With a strong international focus, our college has sister schools in Japan and Vietnam and students travel to visit these countries as well as Italy to hone their language skills. The college hosts an excellent International Students Program. For over 25 years, international students have joined the college to pursue their dreams and have gone on to study at universities in Australia and overseas

All students have access to the latest technology through computer laboratories and the 1:1 computer program.

Regardless of your cultural background or circumstance, we encourage all prospective parents and students to join our vibrant college and welcoming community.

Bringing the Technology of the Future into our classrooms

ESSENDON KEILOR COLLEGE

Leading the way in STEM Education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

For further information or to book a tour

Niddrie Campus Years 7-9

Peters Street, Airport West Phone: 9375 8400

East Keilor Campus Years 7-9

Quinn Grove, East Keilor Phone: 8331 0109

www.ekc.vic.edu.au

Essendon Campus Years 10-12

286 Buckley Street, Essendon Phone: 9319 1300

Gladstone Park Secondary College

GLADSTONE Park is founded on a culture of respect: respect for the school, our peers and ourselves. From this, all aspects of school life follow.

Our highly dedicated staff work hard to bring out the best in students in everything they do. We provide conditions in which students thrive - high expectations, clear boundaries and the opportunity for students to be involved in all aspects of school life. Our facilities and grounds are maintained at the highest standard.

Our Curriculum

At Gladstone Park, our major purpose is to support students in achieving academic success, by giving them the best possible chance of gaining entrance into a course at a University/ Tertiary Institution or employment in their chosen pathway.

The school provides a core curriculum program in Years 7-9. Year 10 is predominantly elective based from a broad selection of subjects.

In addition, we offer two specialist programs - a Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program (SEAL) and an Italian Immersion Program.

Select Entry Programs

SEAL - Select Entry Accelerated Learning

Gladstone Park is a proud member of The Association of Accredited SEAL Schools, and has run a highly successful SEAL program for sixteen years. Students in the SEAL program experience the full curriculum offered at the college, however, they move through their learning at a faster pace. Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 are completed in three, rather than four years. In this way, the needs of gifted and high potential students are met by eliminating

repetition and considerably increasing the pace and the depth of instruction. This gives these students the option of completing their VCE over three years.

Italian Immersion

Gladstone Park has had an Italian Immersion program for 11 years and is a flagship school for utilising the CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) methodology. Immersion students learn language through content, and students in this program develop great concentration skills and mental agility.

Immersion students experience the full curriculum offered at our college while studying Mathematics and Humanities in Italian from Year 7 to Year 9. During the Italian language classes students learn new vocabulary and grammar that will facilitate their content learning.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Gladstone Park students participate and excel in the arts, performing arts and sport. Our annual school musical, Art Show and music performances are acknowledged for their high production standard and students’ performance skills. We offer a wide range of sporting opportunities and many of our sports teams make it to Regional and State finals.

Year 7 Placement

Gladstone Park is the school of choice for many families and places in Year 7 are highly sought after. We are keen for our local families to have access to our select entry programs and to offer programs that cater for our students’ learning needs. We have very limited places available in these programs and we are proud to prioritise our local high achieving students.

GOOD NEWS Lutheran College

In 2022 Good News Lutheran College celebrated 25 years as a provider of education to students in the west. The College’s reputation within the local community of being a school of choice, is evidenced by existing waiting lists across most year levels.

At Good News we appreciate and care about all our students individually and want to prepare them for the rapidly changing future through a focus on critical thinking, creativity, innovation and collaboration. The International Baccalaureate philosophy and curriculum framework not only provides our students with a highly regarded academic program, but through a focus on international mindedness encourages us to recognise and respect the many cultures that make up our diverse community.

The College’s Teaching and Learning Philosophy incorporates its four values of Grace, Respect, Integrity and Courage. Values that are embraced by both staff and students.

A d di t d Our Teachers

• Are dedicated, passionate and strive for professional excellence • Set high expectations and support students to achieve their best • Encourage inquiry, creativity, innovation and collaboration • Role model and encourage independent, lifelong learning • Foster student wellbeing as a key ingredient for successful learning • Tailor programs to help students achieve their potential

Our Students

• See their families as essential learning partners • Are willing to try new things • Take a creative, reflective approach to learning challenges • Are respectful of themselves, others, the College ethos and environment

• Deliver the Australian curriculum (Foundation to Year 10) and Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), underpinned by the International Baccalaureate philosophy • Use data and feedback to support best practice teaching and learning • Utilise the College’s flexible learning spaces to deliver authentic learning experiences • Provide a holistic, Christ-centred education • Forge strong partnerships with parents, students and the community • Strive for excellence • Take responsibility for their own learning • Strive to be independent, lifelong learners • Use clear goals to achieve their best • Are global citizens • Learn from one another

Images Art Exhibition

Catholic Regional College St Albans

Every year we hold our annual Images Exhibition which includes works from Visual Arts, Visual Communication and Design, Media Arts, Technology and the Hands-on Learning program. It is a wonderful opportunity for our school community to see the creative process come together in a spectacular and colourful way.

Students are presented with the opportunity to display their work from their learning journey in each subject. The creative process is very important, so students present their folios and artistic descriptions to assist the audience in understanding the thinking and techniques used to make and create such amazing pieces of artwork and technology.

This year’s school theme; ‘Hearts Open to the World’ was also captured in our Community Arts Project that included contributions from every student in the school. Students unpacked scripture and explored how we can open our own hearts to the world around us and beyond.

We are very fortunate to have such talented and dedicated students and staff in the Arts and Technology areas of our College. We are also very excited to be holding the Images 2023 Exhibition in our new Technology Centre which is due to open in May 2023.

Mr Clarence Marshall – Arts Leader

Hoppers Crossing Secondary College

HOPPERS Crossing Secondary College is a dynamic school, where students are presented with boundless opportunities throughout their schooling journey. We place great emphasis on developing innovative and challenging educational programs for students of all abilities and we are totally committed to continuing to improve the life and education of each student enrolled at Hoppers Crossing Secondary College. Our goal is to see each student become a happy, self-confident, and knowledgeable lifelong learner who can demonstrate independence and a sense of career direction. Ultimately we want to see each growing as a worthy, contributing member of our community.

At the College we develop students who are competing at the highest levels possible in the state across a range of areas. We offer a range of programs catering to students looking to excel academically and foster a growth mindset focused on continuous improvement. We are proud to acknowledge our Year 12 graduates who consistently achieve study scores of 40+ and ATAR scores over 90, giving them access to a range of career pathways and tertiary education options. In addition to this, each year, the College has a number of students who choose to access a University course whilst completing their Year 12 studies.

Outside the classroom, students are offered a range of opportunities including, but not limited to, performing arts where our students have been nationally praised for their skill and professionalism. Winning Story of the Year in 2019, as well as countess more Awards at the Wakakirri Performing Arts event is testament to the dedication and talent of our staff and students.

Leadership qualities, evident in Hoppers Crossing Secondary College students, are cultivated with successful contributions to many events from local youth forums and public speaking programs to interschool debating and State Youth Parliament events.

The vibrant sporting program offers the chance for students to compete in a wide range of sports, with indiviuals and teams representing the College and achieving success at regional and state levels.

In November 2020, we received confirmation from Sarah Connolly, our State Member for

In November 2020, we received confirmation from Sarah Connolly, our State Member for Tarneit, that the school would be receiving $10 million in funding in the State Budget to assist with the re-modernisation of the College. We have developed a school master plan and stage one of those works involves a new competition grade gymnasium with retractable seating for 300, as well as a retractable stage.

Tarneit, that the school would be receiving $10 million in funding in the State Budget to assist with the re-modernisation of the College. We have developed a school master plan and stage one of those works involves a new competition grade gymnasium with retractable seating for 300, as well as a retractable stage.

This wonderful news is recognition of the great work that has been achieved at the College over the last few years and we are so pleased that our students will benefit from this injection of funding.

To find out more about our College, I invite you to attend one of our Open Days next year and our Virtual Open Day Tour is available on our Website.

Keith Halge, College Principal

At Macleod College we teach the skills that will guide our students to contribute positively to society, allowing them to explore their passions in an environment that encourages creativity and diversity. Our values of Achieve, Respect and Connect underpin everything we do, and every learning opportunity is designed to allow students to grow into the future-ready citizens we need, citizens with a sense of belonging and a belief that they can positively impact the world around them. The academic achievements of Macleod students are outstanding, however our broader definition of success ensures social, emotional, sporting and artistic accomplishments are central to being a student of the College. Our Macleod College Music Academy, Student Leadership Program, International Student Program and extensive Wellbeing Program allow students to be supported, connected and valued. We celebrate every student at Macleod, knowing that our college is enriched by the differences individuals bring to our school. Our expert staff are committed to ensuring that the values and traditions our community holds dear are nurtured every day.

Macleod College is accredited under the Department of Education and Training’s CRICOS registration CRICOS provider and code: Department of Education and Training, 00861K. For further information refer to www.study.vic.gov.au

MUSIC ACADEMY

The Macleod College Music Academy (MCMA) program is available to all students from beginners to advanced, providing the Northern Region with outstanding specialised music education.

Macleod students regularly:

• Are among the top VCE Music students in the state, consistently achieving scores of 40+ and being invited to perform at Top Class

• Receive their first preference at tertiary institutions such as Victorian College of the Arts (VCA), Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), Monash University and Ballarat Academy of Performing Arts

• Perform at festivals and competitions such as Generations in Jazz, State Schools Spectacular, All State Jazz and Essentially Ellington, as well a huge range of community and school events throughout the year

PREP - YEAR 12

Students enrolled in the Macleod College Music Academy are provided with access to:

• Tuition by highly experienced and practising musicians in strings, wind, brass, percussion and voice

• A wide range of innovative and quality performance ensembles

• Programs in leadership and teamwork

• AMEB and ABRSM examinations

• Regular performance opportunities

• Music tours and performance camps

• An enjoyable and fulfilling school experience

As one of the few Prep-12 colleges in the state, we pride ourselves on the success with which our P-12 concept operates. Staff and facilities are happily shared across primary and secondary levels, and it is a delight to see how the different age groups interact so easily. Our College can offer the benefits of a range of specialist staff, equipment and facilities which would not be possible in a P-6 school. We are well-placed to promote student leadership and learning through cross-age and mentoring activities, which can develop self-esteem and responsibility in older students, and provide younger students with positive role modelling and leadership examples. Students and teachers are able to develop relationships over a longer period of time within our school. One of the many advantages of this connectedness is that we can better coordinate various learning programs and support services across the P-12 spectrum, thus allowing for a more holistic approach to student support.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PROGRAM

Macleod College is a Level 2 accredited school, allowing us to offer placements to international students either living with their families or in homestay arrangements. We strive to maintain our high academic standards, as well as actively promote social and emotional wellbeing amongst our students. Macleod College provides a creative, stimulating and vibrant learning space where students feel supported to excel in their studies.

Our Intensive English Language Centre (IELC) students are encouraged to immerse themselves in Australian culture and the English language by studying iconic Australian films and history, while actively participating in an enriching incursion and excursions program which assists in creating meaningful educational experiences and building positive relationships and connections to their new community.

M AC K ILLOP C OLLEGE Werribee

MacKillop College gives students the tools they may need to stand interdependently, as part of a wider community and an ever more globalised setting. As a College community, we are proud of the land and culture we are a part of. We respectfully acknowledge the custodians of the land our College inhabits – the Kulin Nation. We weave the culture of this heritage together with the culture of our faith, serving both with honour and consideration to those who came before and those who will follow. Recognition for, and the value of,

teachings, history and customs are integrated into in our curricula from Languages, Mathematics, Religious Education to Health and Physical Education.

MacKillop also offers a range of extra-curricular activities, designed to complement all areas of teaching. Whether through art, music, sport, performance, international trips, debating, animal husbandry, community projects or pastoral care, MacKillop’s extra-curricular programs encourage students to discover what might give them the rounded education and sense of dignity they need. Diversity, harmony, cultural inclusivity and social justice are cornerstones of our well-balanced curriculum, which provides students with the opportunity to explore a variety of subjects at a junior and intermediate level.

Particular focus is given to a respect for land and

resources and lessen our carbon footprint. Our Catholic ethos, as well as the genuine awareness and acknowledgement of the environment we need to protect and nurture, makes this a true priority for us and is actively cultivated by staff and students.

The College’s dedicated Year 9 campus also has a program designed to foster close links with the local

“Education enables you to alter your life’s path and connect with others who want to learn about the same things you do.”

~ Rory Kennedy, Principal of MacKillop College, 2022

community and to raise students’ awareness of their local, national and international environmental citizenship and responsibility. Students are supported in becoming

experiential learning environment.

At a senior level, an impressive array of over 40 VCE subjects are offered to support students in their educational them. One such option includes accelerated learning, which assists students who seek higher education. Another is the provision of a specialist program (supporting the new Vocational Major in VCE) for students who prefer applied learning. to their future. Evoking distinct character strengths in both staff and students, we impart the characteristics of our namesake, St Mary of the Cross MacKillop: resilience, empathy, compassion and care. We stand proud as a College and community of faith and education. MacKillop College • 1-29 Russell St, Werribee, VIC 3030 • 03 8734 5200 For more information, contact the College at enquiries@mackillop.vic.edu.au

We see them flourishing

From our growing Prep learners to our established Year 12 students, we are committed to the growth and development of each student, the whole child.

Success can look very different from one student to another, and our secondary team will guide and support students to achieve their goals.

Visit Melton Christian College

To find out more about our approach to learning, or to register for one of our College Tours, go to: www.mcc.vic.edu.au

One Vision, Two Locations.

Broofield Campus Years Prep – 12 Toolern Vale Junior Primary 2023

Transition from school to the workplace

HOW can schools and teachers combat student anxiety regarding the transition from school to the workplace?

When young people around Australia start to consider their next move into further education, training or employment it is a period of transition which can significantly affect a young person’s mental health and wellbeing, and anxiety is often heightened, even for individuals who are normally on top of life’s challenges.

Young people are suddenly faced with finding and maintaining a job, and too often they fall into areas of profession that hold no personal interest for them. They have limited job-seeking or industry-specific skills, so work-related confidence can easily lead them to an all-time low after the relative safety net of school life.

The prospect of entering the workforce presents multiple challenges beyond the most obvious objective of finding a job. Let’s not forget the plethora of life-admin requirements that come with working life, such as bank accounts, superannuation, transportation, taxes etc. All necessary evils which can be resolved relatively easily as long as you know how, but to a typical teenager they can present instant stress. Parental expectations also often change when young people start earning their own money, and unexpected considerations regarding housing, rent, household expenses and domestic chores start to come into play.

However the biggest potential disruptor to a young person’s mental wellbeing is the pressure to formulate a new social identity as a newlyfledged working professional. They suddenly find themselves thrust into the world with different societal expectations, diminished support systems and adult responsibilities.

Transparency is key. Schools need to highlight these many and varied challenges to a young person’s comfortable status quo early on in Year 12 so that students have time to mentally prepare for what lies ahead by the time exams are over. Post-exam celebrations will have less of a hangover if the foundations for the next stage have been laid in advance.

The overarching message to students should be that early and ongoing two-way communication is essential. Teachers should encourage students

to ask endless questions about what changes will occur in their lives and how they can manage them accordingly. Engage parents/guardians in the process, providing current information about the changing world of work, the new notion of portfolio careers and what job searching looks like today.

As a basic priority, schools should be clarifying the recruitment process, honing job seeking skills, providing tips for writing resumes, conducting interviews, team work, problem solving, critical thinking and financial literacy, plus setting expectations regarding typical timelines for securing a job and all other aspects of the transition. It is also essential to develop work-ready skills before employment commences.

Schools can also play a vital role in demystifying work culture, employee-employer relations, salary expectations, dress codes, acceptable workplace behaviour, work hours, health and safety best practice, all before a young person has even walked onto the job. Practical solutions include linkages with a variety of local businesses from different industries at school-based seminars or during a “careers day”, or encouraging students to seek out part-time work or voluntary work to gain exposure to the work environment early on.

Employment providers and government services tend to predominantly focus on placing people in employment, rather than providing tailored strategies which play to an individual’s unique strengths or personal interests. At the start of their careers, young people should have their boundaries pushed and confidence built, rather than following a one-size-fits-all bureaucratic box-ticking exercise. Too many young Australians enter a job based on the need to earn money, rather than following their heart or aligning their skills to the best fitting trade or industry. In addition to the more logistical guidelines, teachers can promote several tips to a maintaining healthy headspace throughout the process of finding a job: obvious points such as eating and sleeping well, which are crucial to maintaining positive mental wellbeing during times of stress. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce daily anxiety levels as well as breathing exercises or simple mindfulness activities like drawing or listening to music.

Mernda Central Prep-12 College

Mernda Central College is a Prep to Year 12 College located in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs.

At Mernda Central College we provide access to an education of the highest quality for the young people of Mernda. We are committed to providing a culture of inspiration, wellbeing and achievement amongst students and staff in their academic, creative, social, citizenship and sporting pursuits. Students from Prep to Year 12 engage in a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to providing strong learning experiences in all areas of their development.

At Mernda Central College we provide specialist areas of study:

• Learning Enhancement and Enrichment Program (LEEP)

• Academy of Sporting Excellence (ASE)

• Japanese Enhancement Program

Our Vision:

Mernda Central College empowers all members of the college community to aim high, show respect, behave safely and value our community.

Our Mission:

• Provide opportunities for all members to work collaboratively to access a seamless, personalised, and innovative education.

• Build a safe and supportive learning environment wherein all members are motivated and challenged to pursue interests and pathways to achieve their full potential.

• Operate as a community hub to promote the development of connected, curious and tolerant global citizens.

Tours

Bookings are available via www.merndacentralp12college.vic.edu.au

Website: www.merndacentralp12college.vic.edu.au

Email: mernda.central.p12@education.vic.gov.au

Phone: 03 8776 9600

Facebook: @merndacentralcollege | @mcc.careers&pathways

Continued from page 54

Putting these useful daily tips aside, the most important thing schools can do is to openly acknowledge to students that the transition is an inevitable milestone of emotional upheaval and any related anxiety is by no means strange, uncommon or shameful.

Once this is accepted, it will be easier for teachers to then go on to promote the upsides to working life. Research has shown that working can actually help reduce mental health symptoms and improve an individual’s wellbeing and sense of purpose. It provides structure and routine, not to mention a platform for more varied socialisation, financial independence, technical skills and broadened life experience.

Transitioning from school into the workforce is one of the most eventful periods in a person’s entire life and should not be under-estimated or over-simplified as a routine join-the-dots journey. Schools should acknowledge the challenges, outline the processes and embrace the prospects. By establishing structured, formalised approaches to workplace transitioning that will arm students with the best possible tools and mindsets,

Australia’s workforce can look forward to future generations of confident, enthusiastic, inquisitive and challenging employees.

Headspace, National Youth Mental Health Foundation Work and Study Programs support 15 to 25 year olds to plan a career, find employment or work towards further education in a highly accessible, confidential and youth-friendly environment. From one-on-one support with a careers specialist to linking in with industryspecific mentors, our work and study programs provide free, expert and tailored support. The service exists to support young people whose work and study activities have been impacted by mental health, especially for those young people who are not eligible for traditional employment services or are not receiving the level of support they need from these services. And they are delivered online or over the phone to ensure that all young people, wherever they live, can take part. Please go to www.headspace.org.au/ourservices/digital-work-and-study-service/ for more information.

At Rosehill Secondary College, the Science Department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology. This allows teachers to provide a unique experience in STEM education.

To further enhance our outstanding work in STEM, we now have a 4.5 million Architecturally designed state of the art STEM centre which you are welcome to visit.

Students have and will continue to participate in the following STEM experiences:

• Engineers without Borders Conferences – Where students have designed solutions to current global humanitarian problems.

• Robogals - An international non-profit that inspires and encourages female students to consider Engineering.

• In2Science – Science and Maths peer mentoring in the classroom by current University Science Students.

• Robotics Program – High tech coding and programming digital technologies with the use of robotic models including: Sphero, Ozobots, Lego Mindstorm and Microbits.

• Use of multiple 3D printers- incorporating fusion 360 CAD software to design and develop real products.

• Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC) – participating in various workshops such as the Biomechanics and design workshop which is part of the Victorian Challenge Enrichment Program

STEM students from Rosehill Secondary College will have the opportunity to embark on the ultimate STEM educational experience of their lives visiting the National Astronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Centre in Orlando, Florida, USA.

It's all about the science!

FROM 2023

Following our acquisition of a multi storey building on Chetwynd St and the completion of refurbishment of existing areas, we are thrilled to announce that SIMONDS CATHOLIC COLLEGE has become ONE SCHOOL ON ONE CAMPUS.

By 2023 all students across Year 7-12 will be based at our Wes Melbourne site.

St Albans Secondary College’s vision, values and guiding principles combine to create a safe, supportive, and structured environment where every student is guided and inspired to achieve to the best of their ability. Our college community values respect, integrity, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence.

We are proud of our school community's achievements: our results in almost all areas are significantly higher than the average for the State, and for similar schools. St Albans Secondary College has regularly been recognised as a high performing school. In studies undertaken by the Department of Education and the University of Melbourne we were well above state benchmarks in all measures. These outcomes, together with excellent attendance rates, continued growth in students' literacy and numeracy skills, and significant improvement in students' sense of connectedness and safety, are a testament to the combined efforts of staff, families, and students.

Our commitment to foster the academic and personal development of each student, to provide a high-quality education, and to guarantee a broad range of programs to challenge and enrich all students, is a significant factor in these achievements. Our Attendance Policy of 90%, close monitoring of student absences, and effective communication with parents ensure that the importance of regular attendance for successful student learning is well embedded in the school culture.

The SEAL (Select Entry Accelerated Learning) program is offered to challenge and motivate gifted and talented students from Year 7 right

through to Year 12. Additionally, enrichment electives are offered from Year 9, and VCE subjects are available to selected students from Year 10. Our top achievers are supported with scholarships, as well as university mentoring programs including the Kwong Lee Dow Scholars’ program, and they consistently gain entry into top level tertiary courses.

A focus on positive, respectful relationships as an essential part of a safe, enjoyable learning environment is an essential aspect of the College's culture, as is our strategy of enhancing student voice and leadership across the school and providing a rich extracurricular program. Activities include a comprehensive instrumental music program, drama and music production, public speaking and debating, writers' workshops, a camps program, sports teams and carnivals, a House system, and a range of student clubs. Our vision for wellbeing is to support all members of our school community to develop a resilient mindset by striving to ensure that everyone feels Connected, Protected and Respected. The development of a comprehensive allied health team approach to student wellbeing, recent work on resilient mindsets, and further strengthening student wellbeing programs have been important in fostering engagement, positive behaviour, and respectful relationships.

St Albans Secondary College is a community where staff and parents work together with, and for the benefit of, students. Staff are deeply committed to the academic progress, and personal development and wellbeing of each student.

St Aloysius College

Catholic Years 7 to 12 (Co-Education from Year 7 2023)

THIS year, St Aloysius College proudly takes a bold step towards the future, becoming the first Catholic co-educational secondary within the vibrant, multicultural City of Melbourne. With a very healthy and gender-balanced Year 7 2023 cohort, subsequent years will continue to welcome boys through the Year 7 intake until St Aloysius becomes fully co-educational in 2028.

Academic programs at St Aloysius have been designed to encourage a lifelong enthusiasm for learning and discovery. The curriculum blends the very best of educational tradition with an innovative, enquiry-based cross-curricular approach that allows students to make connections, synthesise knowledge and develop literacy skills in a collaborative culture underpinned by a focus on the wellbeing of and respect for the individual.

At St Aloysius we recognise the very important role that social, cultural and physical wellbeing play in the learning, personal growth and development experienced by our students during their six years at the College.

The St Aloysius curriculum is enriched and extended by a vast co-curricular offering that is alive to the needs and wishes of the students and evolves as they do; the program encompasses sport, camps and outdoor education, drama, music and various school-based wellbeing programs. Students participate in a wide range of intra- and inter-school sporting competitions, creative and performing arts programs (including choir, orchestra, production) and social and cultural extensions including debating and public speaking.

Ever-advancing, and with increasingly futurefocused resources and equipment, our Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) program is carefully designed to increase awareness and curiosity in these important fields, and to hone cross-disciplinary understanding. The College has a global focus with partner schools in Milan, Kyoto and Geneva that our students are able to visit as part of their languages and arts studies.

St Aloysius staff are exceptionally well qualified and experienced in their various fields and, most importantly, are committed to encouraging each student to achieve their own personal best, whatever this may look like.

Throughout their secondary education years in this close-knit school, St Aloysius students are

known by, and know, their teachers. These strong relationships foster a culture of inquiry, and our students leave as creative, independent thinkers with a love of learning and solid foundations that prepare them to step out into the world and embrace their collective futures.

Enrolment: 480 students.

Fees: $7,100 (Year 7 to Year 12) including all levies.

Principal: Ms Mary Farah. 31 Curran Street, North Melbourne 3051 Tel: 03 9325 9200

Email: registrar@aloysius.vic.edu.au Website: aloysius.vic.edu.au

St Helena Secondary College

ST HELENA Secondary College is a vibrant school community located in Eltham North. The College is committed to fostering the growth of the whole child. We have a proud history of excellence in education and our vision is to develop wellrounded global citizens, who are equipped to thrive and contribute positively in the digital age. Our College values of Respect, Responsibility and Personal Best create a strong sense of connectedness in what is a safe, supportive and stimulating personalised learning environment.

St Helena Secondary College is a high-demand school and the school of choice for many families. We know the transition from Primary School to Secondary School can be as daunting as it is exciting. Our highly experienced Transition team partner with families, students and primary schools to facilitate a smooth transition to our stand-alone Year 7 Junior School, quickly establishing new students as an integral part of our community.

All students engage in our ‘Strive’ program which is central to our vision of ‘growing the whole child’. The Strive program consists of three streams – Learning Skills, Positivity and Pathways. Students explore age-appropriate curriculum aimed at developing their academic ability, social and emotional skills, and connectedness to an individualised pathway.

Our Year 7 and 8 students are involved in a cluster-based learning model in English and Mathematics, which supports learning and intervention at every students’ point of need. This involves pre-testing students at the commencement of each topic, forming groupings based on skill proficiency - at, below, or above expected level - and teaching, intervening and assessing at students’ zone of proximal development in order to advance the entire cohort across all ability levels.

Our ACE program caters for the educational needs of gifted and talented students. It ensures these students are engaged, challenged and supported to achieve their full potential. ACE students remain together in the first three years of secondary school, accelerating through an enhanced curriculum. In Year 10, ACE students have the opportunity for early commencement for their VCE and may be able to study a university subject via our HEVS program in their final year.

Our award-winning instrumental music program consists of over 220 students (and growing) who regularly compete (and consistently win awards) in the Victorian School Music Festivals and Generations of Jazz Festival. We have a proud tradition of performance including musicals, plays, drama ensemble performances and music concerts. Our dedicated Performing Arts team have been recognised for their excellence in being nominated for and winning several Victorian Music Theatre Guild Awards and Lyrebird Theatre Awards.

Aspiring athletes are able to hone their skills and maximise their potential in our Sports Academy program (Basketball and Netball) and the Athlete Development Program. These programs focus on enhancing student learning in the areas of Technical Skill Development; Tactical and Strategic Development; Strength and Conditioning; Injury Prevention; Match Preparation; and Recovery.

Students are offered an extensive range of camps and international tours, to build cultural, educational and personal experiences.

Owing to our significant size and resourcing, students at St Helena Secondary College are fortunate to be able to select from one of the largest ranges of VCE, Vocational Major (VM) and VET subjects of any school in Victoria. Each year we are able to offer approximately 40 VCE, VM and VET subjects in the senior years, ensuring any and all pathway interest is catered for.

Our highly experienced Transition team partner with families, students and primary schools to facilitate a smooth transition to our stand-alone Year 7 Junior School, quickly establishing new students as an integral part of our community.

Sunbury Downs College

SUNBURY Downs College is a vibrant Year 7 to 12 co-educational secondary college situated in the semi-rural town of Sunbury. We offer a rich educational experience in an environment that encourages the acquisition of excellent educational outcomes for all students.

Our College is an inclusive school offering a wide range of programs that cater for all students.

We have a strong emphasis on developing individual student wellbeing and positive interpersonal relationships. Students are at the centre of our teaching and learning.

Our curriculum provides a comprehensive teaching and learning program for students in core subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Health and Physical Education, Arts, Technology and Languages (Italian). We offer a range of VCE subjects including the VCE Vocational Major program in Years 11-12 which caters for students with an interest and passion for applied learning. We have a reputation for helping students achieve outstanding VCE results, further reinforcing to our students the school motto ‘Confidence to Achieve’.

Sunbury Downs College is the only secondary school in the area that offers an Accelerated Curriculum and Enrichment (ACE) program, extending students through a challenging curriculum including early commencement of VCE. The ACE program is a select entry course with enrolment from the feeder primary schools for students in Years 7-9. New enrolments are welcome to make enquiries about the suitability of this program for their children. We also offer a Scholars program for students in Years 10 and 11 to provide students with a range of opportunities in the Later Years.

Our College is an accredited International Student Program provider. This program has enabled the College to work closely with the Department of Education and Training and the local community to engage in cultural immersion and promote diversity. The College has students and families from 45 different nationalities enrolled at our school, supporting a culturally and linguistically diverse learning environment.

Sunbury Downs College offers a wide range of inclusive activities and programs which cater to

all students. Some of these include Debating and Public Speaking, Maths Club, Drama Club and Choir. We have a well-established Student Voice program and passionate Captaincy team offering students the opportunity to develop leadership skills and contribute to our school in a positive and valuable way. Our College also has a House and Sports program with whole school carnivals for Athletics and Swimming. There are Year Level and specialised camps and excursions, including a bi-annual overseas Italian Study Tour. We offer instrumental music tuition and present a highly acclaimed musical production, enabling students to excel in the Performing Arts in an environment that fosters participation, responsibility and teamwork outside the classroom.

Sunbury Downs College is proud of the work and support provided to students and the wider Sunbury Downs College community by our wellbeing team, learning support team and Careers Coordinator. Wellbeing programs complement the teaching and learning and extracurricular program of the College as we work together to prepare young people to become lifelong learners. Learning Support focuses on assisting students with additional needs while the Careers Coordinator provides valuable advice as students successfully pathway into university, TAFE and the workforce.

Our College values of Respect, Resilience, Ambition and Community are embedded within our teaching and learning practice. These core values support a culture of participation and excellence based on the development of positive relationships and personal growth by all community members.

We have a reputation for helping students achieve outstanding VCE results, further reinforcing to our students the school motto ‘Confidence to Achieve’.

Taylors Lakes Secondary College

TAYLORS Lakes Secondary College is a single campus, co-educational 7 to 12 Leading School in the Western Suburbs of Melbourne.

From the day it opened its doors in 1992 to the Brimbank community, the college has delivered outstanding, vibrant and innovative education.

We believe the success of our students is a result of carefully developed educational programs delivered by a highly qualified and committed staff in a positive learning environment in which all students are challenged and supported.

This is underpinned by a strong code of conduct, compulsory uniform and high expectations.

A positive and responsible approach to education fosters values of trust, tolerance and respect for others.

The structure of the college is based on a Junior Subschool (Years 7 & 8), Middle Subschool (Years 9 & 10) and Senior Subschool ( Years 11 & 12).

All students in the junior and middle years of schooling undertake all subjects across all domains.

There is also literacy and numeracy support programs offered in the Junior and Middle years, enhancement programs, including the LEAP Program, and a Football Academy within Health and Physical Education.

Taylors Lakes continues to create vibrant indoor and outdoor learning spaces. The college has built a new flexible learning centre, new inclusion centre, new library, study facilities, meetings, offices, additional IT classrooms, new performing arts centre, new futsal (soccer) courts and new canteen/eating shelter in the last few years to support the development of a challenging, innovative and enriched curriculum at each level.

Within every classroom, we provide every child, every opportunity to succeed.

With strong leadership, extensive guidance, counselling and tutoring, our students are inspired to aim high.

We are very proud of our students and their results.

From the day it opened its doors in 1992 to the Brimbank community, the college has delivered outstanding, vibrant and innovative education.

TAYLORS LAKES SECONDARY COLLEGE

Students At Taylors Lakes Secondary College

• A strong tradition of excellent VCE results

• Comprehensive VCE, VET and Vocational Educational Major (VM) programs • Learning Enhancement & Advancement Program (LEAP)

• A Football (AFL and Soccer) Academy as part of Health and Physical Education • Performing Arts Program including Instrumental Music, Dance and School Production

• Targeted programs at Year 7 to aid the transition of students

• A supportive Careers Vocational Education program, including the placement of all students in tertiary or employment positions

Wyndham Central College

THE first nationally recognized AVID Site of Distinction (2019).

Wyndham Central College is proudly preparing the leaders of tomorrow to be agile, innovative and creative problem solvers, through a range of excellent education programs and learning opportunities and teaching strategies.

AVID

Wyndham Central College is the first secondary school in Australia to attain “Site of Distinction” AVID Certification.

AVID is a schoolwide program that uses research-based, best teaching and learning strategies to actively engage the student in their learning. While all students at Wyndham Central College are AVID students, it is also offered as an elective from Year 9 - Year 12.

AVID helps all students to believe that they can achieve. It provides students with the tools, skills and knowledge to be successful students, to be university, work and career ready and to be active global citizens.

STEM

Wyndham Central College has a STEM Academy. The STEM Academy’s curriculum has been designed by a team of highly qualified teachers and industry experts.

Students entering the STEM Academy will participate in cutting edge specialist programs that include: Robotics and Coding - Electronics3D Printing - Engineering - 3D Modelling and Gaming. Students work with Industry and the Wyndham Tech School at Victoria University to gather and process data to solve real life problems and potential issues in the community and beyond.

Enrichment

At Wyndham Central College, our Enrichment Program provides an optimal learning environment to address the unique social, emotional, and academic needs of students that display a talent in a particular area.

The program extends enrichment opportunities for students both within and beyond the classroom. All students in the Enrichment Program develop a Project over the course of each year. The project centres on developing an authentic product or performance, and allows students to build excellence in a real-world

context. Enrichment experiences are interwoven into the students’ existing program with extracurricular activities playing an important role in supporting students’ talent development.

The Enrichment experience is extended to students at the College through their participation in the Victorian High Ability Program for those who have been selected to this program by the Department of Education. The Enrichment Series is offered for other students who show high ability in learning areas including English, Science, Math, The Arts, Sport and Health, Humanities, Technology and Languages.

Spanish

Immersion Program (SIP)

The Spanish Immersion bilingual program (SIP) at Wyndham Central Secondary College is a wellresearched approach for promoting bi-literacy, bilingualism, and biculturalism for students. The underlying goal is to prepare students to be global citizens with abilities to listen, speak, read, and write in Spanish.

Our students develop an appreciation for Spanish which is among the most used language in the world and their cultures. Students participate in a rigorous academic program that extends students’ language skills and vocabulary whilst completing a percentage of their core subjects including mathematics, science and humanities in Spanish.

Wyndham Central College’s mission is to develop achievement opportunities and prepare all students for post-secondary education, skills development and work readiness so they can participate in a global community as productive citizens.

Learning something new from a Crisis

THE COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be one of the most trying experiences in the careers of teachers and students alike. As the world went into lockdown, schools were challenged with a sudden transition to remote teaching and learning. New research from Monash University examines what this period of rapid transition taught teachers, and how that will positively impact their teaching practice in the future.

“This transition came with a unique set of obstacles that could have reduced the quality of education for students,” says lead author Professor Umesh Sharma, “but some teachers rose to the occasion to ensure students [including those who are most vulnerable and at risk] would get as much out of their virtual learning experience as they would in person.”

“Our research looked at the common factors leading to the most positive outcomes for learners given the COVID-19 circumstances. Going forward, we can take these factors as suggestions for best educational practices.”

Through a study of five teachers across Australia, all of whom had been recognised for the exceptional differences they made in the lives of learners during the pandemic, two main questions were explored:

1. How did teachers support and engage all learners during COVID-19?

2. Were there any factors extrinsic to these individuals that supported them in creating inclusive and engaging virtual classrooms for all learners?

By focusing on the positive individual qualities that these teachers held, researchers identified five main themes regarding how the teachers were able to meet the needs of all kinds of learners in a remote setting:

1. Passion and commitment – they were dedicated to teaching to the best of their abilities within the parameters of their remote settings. They were also willing to try new methods of teaching that were better suited to virtual platforms and more likely to meet the needs of all learners.

2. A proactive and organized approach – they honed their organisation and timemanagement skills to quickly adapt their curriculums and lesson plans to formats

more compatible with remote learning.

3. Enhanced personalisation and flexibility –they used their knowledge of individual learners’ strengths and needs to personalize learning opportunities and increase engagement across the board.

4. Building relationships with learners and their families – they maintained communication with learners beyond lessons, checking in with them and their parents/carers for feedback and reports of progress. They also facilitated communication between learners to ensure that they were not missing out on the social element of traditional school settings.

5. Facilitating access to online technology –they worked with learners’ families to ensure access to the technology necessary for remote learning. Some provided students with support staff phone numbers for additional support and recorded online lessons so that they were always accessible.

In addition to these individual factors, researchers identified three extrinsic factors that were just as crucial in guaranteeing positive outcomes for learners:

■ supportive teams – teachers collaborated with their colleagues to develop lesson plans, share

Passion and commitment – they were dedicated to teaching to the best of their abilities within the parameters of their remote settings. They were also willing to try new methods of teaching that were better suited to virtual platforms and more likely to meet the needs of all learners.

■ teaching methods, and minimize individual burnout.

■ supportive leadership – teachers worked best when they felt empowered by their school leadership team to take initiative. They were allowed autonomy, not needing approval by school leaders on their decisions, and they were given ample time to plan their new approaches when transitioning to remote teaching.

■ supportive school systems and structures –teachers valued school systems practicing flexibility in the circumstances of COVID-19, including adapting school schedules, modifying curriculums, and relaxing student attendance policies.

“In covid, as in regular times, teachers’ devotion to their role and their concern for student wellbeing for the best possible educational outcomes in any given circumstance,” says Professor Sharma.

“It was also incredibly important that teachers are supported so that they can do their job most effectively.

“The teachers interviewed for this study have reported that since returning to an in-person classroom format, they have continued to use some of the practices developed in lockdown, finding them to be effective in promoting success

for all kinds of learners.

“Though the COVID-19 pandemic has presented extraordinary hardships in virtually every aspect of life, it has also provided opportunities for growth and improvement, and education is no exception.”

For more information, please contact Professor Umesh Sharma, Ph.D, MAPS at Monash University at umesh.sharma@monash.edu .

Sharma, U., Laletas, S., May, F. et al. “In any crisis there is an opportunity for us to learn something new”: Australian teacher experiences during COVID-19. Aust. Educ. Res. (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13384-02200556-x

MCERA, an independent, not-for-profit organisation, provides a conduit through which education research and researchers are made more accessible to the media to help improve public understanding of key education-related issues.

We provide journalists with expert, independent and accessible insights from education researchers and practitioners. Any views expressed by the experts we consult are not necessarily those of MCERA or its staff.

Team Work

Locality Guide

North

Assumption College.............................................................6 & 7

St Aloysius College .........................................................66 & 67

North East

Bundoora Secondary College ......................10, 11, 12 & 13

Craigieburn Secondary College..............................28 & 29

Heathdale Christian College ....................................38 & 39

Macleod College ...............................................................48 & 49

Mernda Central College..........................................................55

St Helena Secondary College ...................................68 & 69 St Monica’s College, Epping ..........................................4 & 5

William Ruthven Secondary College....................78 & 79

West

Braybrook College ................................................................8 & 9

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College ....................14 & 15

CRC Caroline Springs ...................................................24 & 25

CRC Melton (now St Francis College) .........21, 22 & 23

CRC St Albans .....................................................26, 27, 36 & 37

Essendon Keilor College .............................................30 & 31 Good News Lutheran College ..................................34 & 35

Hoppers Crossing Secondary College ................40 & 41

Keilor Downs Secondary College .....................................43

MacKillop College......................Front cover, 2, 3, 50 & 51

Marian College ........................................44, 45 & back cover

Melton Christian College............................................52 & 53

Rosehill Secondary College .......................................58 & 59 Simonds Catholic College ..........................................62 & 63 St Albans Secondary College ...................................64 & 65

Sunshine College ..............................................................72 & 73

Taylors Lakes Secondary College ...........................74 & 75

Victoria University Secondary College ...............76 & 77 Wyndham Central College.........................................80 & 81

North West

Charles La Trobe College ............................................16 & 17

Copperfield College ........................................................18 & 19

Gladstone Park Secondary College ......................32 & 33 Marymede Catholic College .....................................46 & 47 Mill Park Secondary College ...............................................57

Salesian College – Sunbury ..................................................61 Sunbury Downs College ...............................................70 & 71

Assumption College

Braybrook College

Bundoora SC

& 7

& 9

11, 12 & 13

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College ............................14 & 15

Charles La Trobe P-12

Copperfield College

& 17

& 19

Melton Christian College....................................................52 & 53

Mernda Central College..................................................................55

Mill Park Secondary College .......................................................57

Noone Imagewear ...............................................................................87

Rosehill Secondary College ...............................................58 & 59

Salesian College Sunbury ..............................................................61 School Listings .....................................................................................85

& 25

Craigieburn Secondary College......................................28 & 29 CRC Caroline Springs

CRC Melton (Now St Francis College) ................21, 22 & 23

CRC St Albans

Essendon Keilor College

27, 36 & 37

& 31

Gladstone Park Secondary College ..............................32 & 33

Good News Lutheran College

& 35

Heathdale Christian College ............................................38 & 39

Hoppers Crossing Secondary College ........................40 & 41

Keilor Downs Secondary College .............................................43

Learning something new from a crisis .......................82 & 83

MacKillop College..............................Front cover, 2, 3, 50 & 51

Macleod College .......................................................................48 & 49

Marian College ...............................................44, 45 & back cover

Marymede Catholic College .............................................46 & 47

Simonds Catholic College ..................................................62 & 63

St Albans Secondary College ...........................................64 & 65 St Aloysius College .................................................................66 & 67 St Helena Secondary College ...........................................68 & 69 St Monica’s College, Epping ..................................................4 & 5

Sunbury Downs College .......................................................70 & 71

Sunshine College ......................................................................72 & 73

Taylors Lakes Secondary College ...................................74 & 75

Transition from school to the workplace...................54 & 56

Victoria School Guides Website ................................................42

Victoria University Secondary College .......................76 & 77

William Ruthven Secondary College...........................78 & 79 Wyndham Central College.................................................80 & 81