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© VCAA 2011
VCAA BulletinVCE, VCAL and VET
Regulations and information about curriculum and assessment for the VCE, VCAL and VET
Principal VCE/VCAL/VET Coordinators VCE/VCAL/VET Teachers
Victorian Certificate of Education Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning Vocational Education and Training
V I C T O R I A N C U R R I C U L U M A N D A S S E S S M E N T A U T H O R I T Y
This publication is also available online at
www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
No. 93 November 2011ISSN 1448-2363
Supplements1. Important Administrative Dates 20122. Revised VCE Studies for implementation in
2012 – Frequently Asked Questions
COntentS
DAteSImportant administrative dates 2
CeO’S COluMnJohn Firth 3
VCeGENERAL ADVICEAustralian Curriculum 4Student Records and Results 4Examinations 7VCE Review and Implementation 7
VCe VetGENERAL ADVICE2011 Australian Vocational Student Prize Nominations 10Revised VCE VET Sport and Recreationprogram 10VET/VCAL/DEECD Statewide briefings 10VCE VET program changes for 2012 11TDC – VET Teacher Scholarship Program 11Implementation workshop VCE VET Health 11
VCAlVCAL UpDATECurriculum Planning Guide: Personal Development Skills Strand 12Themed VCAL 2012 122011 VCAL Achievement Awards 12
nOtiCeS Geography Teachers’ Association of Victoria 132011 VCE Philosophy Support Program 132011 VCE Results and ATAR Service 14
inDeXSeptember 2010 to October 2011 15
DiStRiButiOnNotices and publications 17
VCe AchieversSienna Harris 19Angus Pritchard 20
Matt, a current agriculture student at Elisabeth Murdoch College using an electronic identification device to read the ear tag of one of the college’s Hampshire Down sheep with Kyle Harris (right) checking the weighing monitor to keep track of the sheep’s growth. The equipment was designed and produced by Kyle. Photograph courtesy of Andrew Cosby, Elisabeth Murdoch College.
SteM connections in agriculture at elisabeth Murdoch College
Innovation is alive and well in the agricultural and horticultural department at Elisabeth Murdoch College in Langwarrin. Through the skills and knowledge gained in his science, technology,
engineering and mathematics (STEM) studies, Kyle Harris, former student at the college, has developed technological systems used to monitor day-to-day needs of the school farm animals and crops. The teacher and farm manager, Mr Andrew Cosby, and students use the equipment to help them assess when animal food and drink need to be replenished or when soil moisture levels are low and plants need to be watered. The school has a horse, chickens, calves, pigs, sheep, goats and two alpacas.
The equipment incorporates use of solar collectors, sensors, cameras and video-feeds and clever computer programming by Kyle, now studying first year robotics and mechatronics at Swinburne University. Kyle, who is still keenly involved in the school farm, began developing the systems in his middle school systems engineering and design and technology classes; but also found his science and mathematics studies useful. Initially he developed an automated chicken coop, but his inventive streak spurred him on to develop monitoring systems that record farm data, displayed as graphs for agriculture students to discuss and analyse. The system has recorded chicks hatching in the egg incubator; however, it was the birth of piglets early one morning captured live via video stream that was a highlight. Meanwhile, Kyle, with input from Mr Cosby and students, is incubating further ideas for innovations to the school farm and its operations.
DAteS
2 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
important administrative datesFull details of dates appear in Supplement 1 to the November 2010 VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET No. 85.
V = VASS critical date
2011
Monday 14 November
V
SIAR 4 scores for VCE Unit 4 School-assessed Coursework.
After this date VASS will not allow schools to enter SIAR 4 scores.
Monday 21 November
V
ENROLMENT 5
This data should be a complete record of all VCE, VCAL and VET enrolments for the current year.
After this date VASS will not allow schools to enrol or withdraw students in:
• VCE Units 1 and 2
• VCAL units
• VET units of competence/modules.
SIAR 5 unit results due at the VCAA.
After this date VASS will not allow schools to enter:
• VCE unit results
• VCAL unit results
• VET units of competence/modules results
• VCE VET coursework task scores.
Friday 2 December
V
ENROLMENT 6
Final date to amend student addresses.
After this date no changes to addresses or other student personal details for 2011 can be accepted.
Applications for Themed VCAL in 2012 close.
Applications close for 2011 VCAL Achievement Awards.
Friday 16 December
V
Results available to students.
Final results available to schools.
Results package sent to schools:
• Statements of Results for students studying VCE Units 1 and 2 or VCAL
• Certificates for students who have successfully completed their VCE or VCAL
• VCE VET and VET/FE Statement of Results listing units of competence/modules completed for students studying VCE Units 1 and 2 only and VCAL.
Statements of Results for students enrolled in at least one VCE Units 3 and 4 sequence will be sent to students.
Wednesday 21 December Anomalous grade report will be available through VASS for the October/November examinations.
Thursday 22 December End of Term 4.
End of 2011 school year.
CeO’s COluMn
VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 3
Australian Curriculum and the VCE/VCALT h e A u s t r a l i a n C u r r i c u l u m , Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) has begun to revise the first 14 draft courses for the senior secondary component of the Phase 1 Australian Curriculum. As part of this process, ACARA has written to each state and territory curriculum and assessment statutory authorities seeking their views on the draft curriculum design principles. The VCAA Board will be discussing this issue at its November and December meetings to develop feedback.
As I have discussed previously, there are more complex design issues for the senior secondary curriculum than there are for the Foundation-10 years. The most obvious and important issue is to be clear about the role and status of achievement standards for curriculum which is assessed and reported within the formal requirements of accredited certificates. As you would be aware, each jurisdiction has its own assessment, reporting and certification arrangements. Of course there are many underlying similarities but each have developed and evolved within their own settings. Consultations have been undertaken and decisions made which reflect local settlements. In principle, there is no reason why these cannot continue as we move to the delivery of common content in certain areas of the curriculum. On the other hand, the development of common curriculum may well lead to discussion and debate about the feasibility and desirability of moving to more common assessment, reporting and/or certification, building on the base of the common content.
The VCAA will be providing initial feedback on the design principles in their own right, assuming no other structural changes. We have a strong commitment to our existing two
CeO’s columncertificates which we believe provide excellent pathways suited to the range of students studying at Years 11 and 12 in Victoria. Our intention is to participate in the development of the curriculum content for the Australian curriculum and make judgments at the appropriate time about their incorporation into our certificates. Our first priority in 2012 will be to work with our schools and other key stakeholders in providing feedback on the revised curriculum drafts as they are produced for consultation. We will be notifying schools early in 2012 about opportunities to participate in consultation forums on the revised draft courses in English, Maths, Science and History as they are released for feedback. We will be also reporting on developments in the Phase 2 subjects at that time.
VCAA BulletinsA final reminder to all VCE teachers to subscribe to the online VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET. It is your sure way to receive important information directly from the VCAA to your inbox.
End of year greetingsAs this is the final Bulletin for the year, I would like to thank all VCE, VCAL and VET staff for their continuing commitment and support. The successful provision of the many and varied courses for tens of thousands of young Victorians requires energy, expertise, cooperation and goodwill. I am happy to say we see all of this every day in our dealings with schools. I trust that you will all enjoy a richly deserved break and come back refreshed for the many challenges and opportunities that 2012 will bring.
John FirthChief Executive OfficerNovember 2011
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4 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
Australian Curriculum
Geography
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) has released a draft of the Australian
Curriculum: Geography F–12 for consultation which is available for comment until 29 February 2012 to registered users of the Australian Curriculum website at:http://consultation.australiancurriculum.edu.au
The VCAA and the Geography Teachers Association of Victoria (GTAV) invite teachers of Geography in primary and secondary schools to attend a consultation session to provide feedback on the draft national Geography curriculum.
The feedback from these consultations will contribute to the Victorian response to the draft curriculum. This will assist ACARA in shaping final drafts of the Geography curriculum F–10 due for release in 2012.
Details of the consultation sessions are as follows:
Tuesday 22 November 2011 4.30–6.30 pm
Ballarat Ballarat Grammar201 Forest StWendouree
Monday 28 November 2011 4.30–6.30 pm
Parkville University High77 Story StreetParkville
Thursday 1 December 2011 3.45–4.45 pm
Online The VCAA is running an online consultation session via Collaborate (formerly Elluminate). This online event is open to all Victorian Government, Catholic or Independent school curriculum leaders and teachers and is free.
Tuesday 21 February 2012 4.30–6.30 pm
Drouin Chairo Christian SchoolDrouin CampusBalfour RoadDrouin
Thursday 23 February 2012 4.30–6.30 pm
Templestowe Serpell Primary SchoolTuckers RoadTemplestowe
Tuesday 28 February 2012 4.30–6.30 pm
Tarneit Thomas Carr College35 Thomas Carr DriveTarneit
Register for any of these sessions at:www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/foundation10/curriculum/registration/geography.html
The GTAV is also inviting attendees at the 2011 VCE Geography Conference on Wednesday 30 November the opportunity to comment on the draft senior secondary Australian Curriculum: Geography. For more information, please contact the GTAV on (03) 9824 8355, email: [email protected] or at: www.gtav.asn.au/Professional_learning/calendar.php
Student Records and Results
Final Results Package Delivery to Schools
The results will be delivered to each school by an Australia Post courier on Monday 19 December. Schools are
required to ensure they remain open on this day for receipt of these important results. This will be a receipted delivery; therefore a designated staff member must be available at the school on that day to sign for the delivery.
Parcel delivery can occur anytime from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm. Please note that the exact time of delivery cannot be guaranteed and schools should take this into consideration when planning their graduation ceremonies.
FINAL RESULTS PACKAGE – packaged in blue satchel For all students enrolled in Unit 1 and 2 studies only, i.e. they do not have a VCE Unit 3 or 4 enrolment in their program, the 2011 Final VCE and VCAL Results package will contain: • VCE Statements of Results • VET Statements of Results for all students who attempted
at least one VET/FE UoC/Module • VCAL Statement of Results.
The 2011 Final VCE and VCAL Results package will also contain: • VCE Certificates for students who have been successful in
obtaining their VCE in 2011 • VCAL Certificates for students who have been successful
in obtaining their VCAL in 2011 • VCAL Results Brochure • VCE Results Brochure.
It is the school’s responsibility to distribute these certificates and therefore it is imperative that the packages are successfully delivered to the nominated address.
All students enrolled in at least one VCE Unit at 3 and 4 level will have their Statement of Results mailed to their postal address.
Enquiries regarding the delivery of the final results package can be directed to Renee Whitehouse on (03) 9651 4408.
Student Address ChangesSchools have until Friday 2 December to make changes to student address details following the address validation process undertaken by the VCAA in October. After this time, no changes will be accepted.
VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 5
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VCe leadership teams Professional development The VCAA invites members of your school’s VCE leadership team, particularly new VCE Coordinators, to attend two important professional development opportunities that will be offered across the state in February and March 2012.
VCe School leaders briefings These briefings are intended to give VCE School Leaders, particularly new VCE Coordinators, an overview of current VCE issues. Areas covered in these briefings will include: • enrolment• school assessment, including ‘S’ and ‘N’ decisions• a curriculum update• special provision• exam conduct and supervision• statistical moderation• study scores.
Please note that these briefings do not replace the training provided for VASS, the VCE Data Service and the VCE Exam Results Service.
Session scheduleFor the benefit of staff travelling from more remote schools and providers to attend these events, VCE School Leaders briefings and training in ‘Analysing your school’s VCE results’ held in regional centres have been scheduled to coincide. Staff attending the events in these centres are encouraged to register for both sessions.
Date Region Venue Session 1 (9.30 am to midday)
Session 2 (1.00 to 3.30 pm)
Monday 13 February 2012 Northern Metropolitan VCAA Assessment Centre, Coburg
VCE School Leaders
Tuesday 14 February 2012 Northern Metropolitan Catholic Ladies College, Eltham
VCE School Leaders
Thursday 16 February 2012 Western Metropolitan St Bernards College, Essendon
VCE School Leaders
Friday 17 February 2012 Western Metropolitan Emmanuel College, Altona North
VCE School Leaders
Monday 20 February 2012 Eastern Metropolitan Ringwood Secondary College
VCE School Leaders
Tuesday 21 February 2012 Eastern Metropolitan Genazzano FCJ College, Kew
VCE School Leaders
Thursday, 23 February 2012 Southern Metropolitan Cheltenham Secondary College
VCE School Leaders
Friday 24 February 2012 Southern Metropolitan Dandenong High School VCE School Leaders
Thursday 1 March 2012 Gippsland Bairnsdale Community College
VCE School Leaders Analysing your school’s VCE results
Friday 2 March 2012 Gippsland Lowanna College, Moe Analysing your school’s VCE results
VCE School Leaders
Tuesday 6 March 2012 Barwon South West Oberon Primary, School Geelong
VCE School LeadersAnalysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE resultsVCE School Leaders
Wednesday 7 March 2012 Barwon South West Warrnambool College VCE School Leaders Analysing your school’s VCE results
Thursday 8 March 2012 Grampians Horsham Primary School (Rasmussen Road Campus)
VCE School Leaders Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCe resultsThese sessions are designed to increase the knowledge and skills of school staff in accessing and using VCE assessment results information. This information can be used to:• identify strengths and weaknesses in your school’s VCE
performance against particular curricula• inform professional learning discussions with fellow
teachers around improving student performance.
Sessions on analysing your school’s VCE results cover information that will be useful at various levels within schools, from the classroom teacher (e.g. results on individual examination items) to the school leadership team (e.g. trends in study results).
These sessions are hands-on; participants will be given an opportunity to analyse their own school’s VCE results in the training room. Sessions will cover both the VCE Data Service (VCEDS) and VCE Examination Results Service (VCEERS) and are designed to be informative and practical for both new and experienced VCEDS and VCEERS users.
Where possible, schools are encouraged to send two staff members to a session; participants find it beneficial to discuss findings from their analyses with colleagues during the training.
Please note that, due to the number of PCs available in the rooms used for this training, places for each session are limited.
VCe GeneRAl ADViCe
6 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
RegistrationTo register for VCE Leaders briefings and training in analysing your school’s VCE results, visit the professional development page on the VCAA website:www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/career/profdev.html
Detailed registration instructions are provided on this page.Note: Reimbursement of travel and accommodation
expenses and funding of staff replacement is not available in relation to staff attending these sessions.
Further informationFor enquiries regarding these sessions, please contact Anton Bouwer, Student Records and Results on (03) 9651 4447 or email: [email protected]
Date Region Venue Session 1 (9.30 am to midday)
Session 2 (1.00 to 3.30 pm)
Friday 9 March 2012 Grampians Macarthur Street Primary School / DEECD Grampians Regional Office Ballarat
Analysing your school’s VCE resultsVCE School Leaders
VCE School Leaders Analysing your school’s VCE results
Wednesday 14 March 2012 Hume Wangaratta High School VCE School Leaders Analysing your school’s VCE results
Thursday 15 March 2012 Hume Wanganui Park Secondary College, Shepparton
VCE School Leaders Analysing your school’s VCE results
Friday 16 March 2012 Loddon Mallee CTRC Bendigo VCE School LeadersAnalysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE resultsVCE School Leaders
Monday 19 March 2012 Northern Metropolitan VCAA Assessment Centre, Coburg
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Tuesday 20 March 2012 Northern Metropolitan VCAA Assessment Centre, Coburg
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Wednesday 21 March 2012 Western Metropolitan Aberfeldie Primary School, Essendon
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Thursday 22 March 2012 Western Metropolitan Aberfeldie Primary School, Essendon
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Friday 23 March 2012 Eastern Metropolitan Parkmore Primary School, Forest Hill
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Monday 26 March 2012 Eastern Metropolitan Parkmore Primary School, Forest Hill
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Tuesday 27 March 2012 Eastern Metropolitan Parkmore Primary School, Forest Hill
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Wednesday 28 March 2012 Southern Metropolitan Cheltenham Secondary College
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
Thursday 29 March 2012 Southern Metropolitan Dandenong High School Analysing your school’s VCE results
Analysing your school’s VCE results
VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook 2012The VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook 2012 can now be accessed on the VCAA website.
Print copies of the handbook will arrive in schools in the week commencing 5 December.
A reminder that forms and the important administrative dates are no longer published in the handbook.
‘Important Administrative Dates 2012’ can be accessed at the VCAA website under ‘School Administration’ or at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/schooladmin/admindates/index.html. These are also published as a supplement with this issue of the VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET.
Student Personal Details forms for 2012 are now available on VASS.
Revised versions of the remaining forms previously published in Appendices 5–10 of the VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook 2012 will be available on VASS from mid-December 2011.
VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 7
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Victorian Student number (VSn) exiting StudentsWhen students leave a school they must be correctly exited. DO NOT cancel a student’s enrolment as this cancels their entire participation record at your school and renders their VSN obsolete. Cancel enrolment should only be used if the student never attended any classes at your school.
If a student is transferring to another school, please provide the student/parent with a VSN notification report which the student can use as part of their enrolment at the new school.
Communicating the VSN to students and parentsSchools are required to supply the VSN to students and parents to enable them to complete future enrolments. The VSN should be displayed on the following documents:• Student Report Card• Student Transfer Note• Student VSN Notification.
Contacting the VSn Operations teamIf you have any questions regarding the VSN please contact the VSN Operations team by:• Telephone: 1800 822 635 (hotline)• Email: [email protected]• Fax: (03) 9651 0218
examinations
examination feedback survey
An online survey of examination feedback will be available throughout November to all teachers of Units 3 and 4 VCE
studies and scored VCE VET programs developed in Victoria. The survey will give teachers the opportunity to provide feedback on the 2011 end-of-year written VCE examinations. The survey is accessible at: www.asr5.com/vcaaor under ‘Latest News’ on the VCAA website.
All Units 3 and 4 teachers are encouraged to complete this survey, which will take approximately 10–15 minutes. Results will be used to provide feedback to examination setting panels and the VCAA.
VCe Review and implementation
VCe Assessment Handbooks 2012
The revised studies for implementation in 2012 are Accounting, Australian and Global Politics (formerly
International Politics), English Language, Industry and Enterprise, Media, Outdoor and Environmental Studies, Product Design and Technology (formerly Design and Technology) and Sociology.
An assessment handbook for each of these VCE studies is published for the accreditation period of the study and these are available from the VCAA website at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/vce/studies/futuresd.html
Assessment handbooks are no longer printed and distributed to schools.
VCE teachers should note that the companion document Administrative Procedures for Assessment in VCE Studies supporting study-specific assessment advice contained in assessment handbooks is located on the VCAA website at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/vce/generaladvice/index.html
VCe extended investigation – proposed studyIn 2007, the VCAA commissioned a report investigating the feasibility of an extended project option within the VCE. This report explored a range of both national and international education jurisdictions, in which a different form of independent research project had been incorporated into the senior secondary certificate. The report presented detailed case studies of the curriculum and assessment arrangements in six systems; investigated the feasibility of these models in relation to the VCE; and proposed a set of options for developing a similar type of extended study in the VCE.
In 2010, the VCAA commenced development of a study design for a new VCE Units 3 and 4 study that would provide students with the opportunity to undertake extended independent research.
8 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
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A reference group including schools was convened to discuss the draft of the new proposed VCE Extended Investigation study design and trial, and has met on several occasions.
Aims and structure of the proposed VCE Extended Investigation studyThe study is designed to enable students to:• construct rigorous, searching research questions• design and undertake an independent investigation• understand and apply research methods• undertake an in-depth learning in a chosen area of
investigation • develop as independent, critical and reflective learners• develop project management knowledge and skills• analyse and evaluate results• develop skills in written and oral presentation• use their learning experiences to support their personal
aspirations for higher education and career development.
The study is comprised of a Units 3 and 4 sequence: • Unit 3: Designing an extended investigation• Unit 4: Presenting an extended investigation.
2012 trial of extended investigation at Year 10An initial trial of a scaled down version of the study will occur in 2012 in thirteen schools. This will involve schools implementing key structural elements of the current draft of the VCE Extended Investigation Study Design, modified to suit local circumstances and available resources. This will provide the opportunity to conduct a ‘proof of concept’ trial with a focus on the proposed processes for external approval of individual research questions, the proposed assessment structure and the development of associated teaching and learning support materials.
2013 VCe extended investigation pilotPending the outcome of the 2012 trial, the VCAA expects to conduct a pilot of the VCE Extended Investigation in 2013.
In the latter part of 2012, schools will be invited to express interest in piloting the VCE Extended Investigation Units 3 and 4 study in 2013. It is expected that students who successfully complete the pilot in 2013 will receive an unscored Units 3 and 4 sequence for satisfactory completion purposes and will be eligible for an increment towards their ATAR. Schools will be notified of the expression of interest process through the VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET.
VCe implementation – online sessionsThe VCAA is running two online sessions via Collaborate (formerly Elluminate), to support the implementation of the newly re-accredited VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies and VCE Sociology. These online sessions are open to all Victorian government, Catholic or independent school teachers currently teaching or intending to teach these studies and are free.
To register for Online Collaborate VCE sessions please visit: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/career/profdev.html#2
VCE Study Session description Session format Date Time
VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies
This session will provide an overview of the changes to the new VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies Study Design.Note: this is an abbreviated version of the implementation workshop PD
Presentation + Participant questions.
Monday 5 December 2011 3.45–4.45 pm
VCE Sociology VCE Sociology has undergone significant review and this session will cover the major changes and key elements of the new study Units 1 to 4 Note: this is an abbreviated version of the implementation workshop PD
Presentation +Participant questions.
Tuesday 13 December 2011 3.45–4.45 pm
VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 9
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Accreditation periods for VCe studies: effective 1 January 2012A summary of accreditation periods for VCE studies as approved by the Board of the VCAA is provided below.
Accreditation period expires December 2012
Accreditation period expires December 2013
Accreditation period expires December 2014
Accreditation period expires December 2015
Accreditation period expires December 2016
Systems EngineeringVisual Communication and Design
Health and Human DevelopmentPhilosophy
ArtBiology Business ManagementChemistryClassical StudiesDanceDramaEconomicsEnglish/ESLEnvironmental ScienceFoundation EnglishGeographyHistoryInformation TechnologyLiteratureMathematics Physical Education PsychologyStudio ArtsTexts and TraditionsTheatre StudiesLanguages CCAFL: Albanian, Armenian, Auslan, Bosnian, Croatian, Dutch, Filipino, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Khmer, Macedonian, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Sinhala, Swedish, Tamil, Turkish, Ukrainian, Yiddish Languages: Arabic, Chinese FL, Classical Greek, Chinese SL, Chinese SLA, Classical Hebrew, French, German, Greek, Indigenous Languages of Victoria, Indonesian FL, Indonesian SL, Italian, Japanese FL, Japanese SL, Korean FL, Korean SL, Latin, Persian, Spanish, Vietnamese.
Agricultural and Horticultural StudiesFood and Technology Legal StudiesMusicReligion and Society
AccountingAustralian and Global PoliticsEnglish Language Industry and Enterprise Media Outdoor and Environmental Studies Product Design and TechnologySociology
Languages Other than English (LOTE)• The accreditation period for all LOTEs is subject to VCAA and ACACA accreditation guidelines being met for minimum enrolments.• FL: First Language, SL: Second Language, SLA: Second Language Advanced.
VCe Vet GeneRAl ADViCe
10 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
VCe Vet
2011 Australian Vocational Student Prize nominations
The Australian Vocational Student Prize promotes the value of gaining vocational skills while at school and recognises
the important role VET plays in preparing students for further training and employment.
Schools are invited to nominate Year 12 students who have chosen to pursue a practical training pathway while completing their senior secondary studies and demonstrated outstanding vocational and employability skills while undertaking a VET program or an Australian school-based apprenticeship.
Up to 500 prizes are awarded each year and winners receive a certificate and $2000. The highest achieving recipients of the AVSP are also eligible for the Prime Minister’s Award for Skills Excellence in School, which also has prizes of $2000.
Nominations close on 2 December 2011 at 8.00 pm.www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling/AustralianVocationalStudentsPrize/Pages/Home.aspx
Revised VCe Vet Sport and Recreation program Details of the revised VCE VET Sport and Recreation program at will be provided at the Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation (ACHPER) Conference to be held on 24 and 25 November 2011. For registration and further details: www.achper.vic.edu.au
Vet/VCAl/DeeCD Statewide BriefingsThe VCAA and DEECD are conducting statewide briefings to update schools and providers on information regarding VET and VCAL. These briefings will take place in each DEECD region across Victoria during November and December. The briefings will include:• VET update for 2012, including VCE VET programs,
scored assessment, apprenticeships and traineeships and State and Federal VET policy
• VET workshops covering partnerships for VETiS and quality provision of VET to VCE/VCAL students
• funding for VETiS and a discussion concerning the changes to VCAL coordination funding from 2012
• VCAL update for 2012 • VCAL workshop covering the revised Personal
Development Skills (PDS) for 2012.
Schools/Providers are invited to send appropriate personnel. The briefings will commence at 9.30 am and run until 3.00 pm. All persons attending must register individually.
Further details on the briefings including session dates and locations are provided in the Notice to Schools No. 155/2011, 19 October 2011, this can be accessed on the VCAA website at:www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/correspondence/notices/2011/155.html.
VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 11
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VCe Vet program changes for 2012Some VCE VET programs will have changes as a result of the introduction of Flexible Packaging Rules and Continuous Improvement in Training Packages. Changes may include updates to qualification codes, revised nominal hours and codes for units of competency, revised packaging rules and the addition of new units of competency to programs.
The following VCE VET Programs will be affected: • Applied Fashion Design and Technology• Business• Community Services• Furnishing (as previously listed in the October 2011 VCAA
Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET No. 92)• Hospitality and Hospitality Kitchen Operations• IT• Interactive Digital Media• Music (as previously listed in the October 2011 VCAA
Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET No. 92)
It is the responsibility of the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to ensure that the most current version of training is being delivered in accordance with the VCE VET program structure. The published extracts current at the beginning of 2012 will be the required version for school assessed coursework and the examination (where applicable). This information will be available at:www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/vet/programs/index.html
The VCAA will publish details of the changes to each VCE VET program in the February 2012 VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET and further information will be available at the VET/VCAL/DEECD Statewide Briefings held in November and December.
tDC – Vet teacher Scholarship ProgramIn order to support workforce development the Victorian Government will fund scholarships of up to $1000 each for secondary teachers delivering VET in Schools programs who wish to undertake the TAE40110 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
The TDC is coordinating these scholarships to support secondary school staff in completing this qualification through study, Recognition of Prior Learning or a combination of these at a Victorian Registered Training Organisation. To apply download an application form at:www.tdc.vic.edu.auFor further information please contact Janet Nicholds, TDC Senior Project Manager, on (03) 9250 6006 or email: [email protected]
implementation workshop VCe Vet Health Expressions of interest are requested from Schools, RTOs and Health Providers interested in taking part in an implementation workshop for the new VCE VET Health program. This workshop will be an opportunity to network, learn about the new VCE VET Health program and gain a greater understanding of various delivery models currently running across the state. It is proposed that this workshop will be held in a metropolitan location in early December.
Teachers, trainers and health professionals currently involved in VET in Schools Health programs or who are planning to deliver programs in 2012 / 13 are invited to lodge their expressions of interest at:
www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/vet/vetpdregister.htmlFor further information please contact Alison Wall, VET
Unit on (03) 9651 4563.
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12 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
VCAl update
Curriculum Planning Guide: Personal Development Skills Strand
The revised VCAL Curriculum Planning Guide: Personal Development Skills Strand has been endorsed by the
VCAA Board and accredited by the VRQA. Implementation of the new units commence in 2012.
Two copies of the 2012–2016 Curriculum Planning Guide: Personal Development Skills Strand will be mailed to all existing VCAL providers.
The VCAA acknowledge and thank the large number of stakeholders who provided valuable input into the development of this Curriculum Planning Guide.
For queries regarding the revised Curriculum Planning Guide: Personal Development Skills Strand, contact Cornelia DeBrincat, Project Manager – VCAL on (03) 9651 4383 or email: [email protected]
themed VCAl 2012Themed VCAL programs are intended to provide a learning program focus linked to priority areas in the labour market and/or to job opportunities. The programs should assist students to choose future pathways such as apprenticeships, Vocational Education and Training qualifications or employment.
The guidelines and application form are available at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/vcal/providers/themedvcal/index.html
Applications to deliver Themed VCAL programs in 2012 close on Friday 25 November 2011.
For further information contact Cornelia DeBrincat, Project Manager – VCAL, on (03) 9651 4383 or email: [email protected]
2011 VCAl Achievement AwardsThe VCAL Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of young people who participate in the VCAL. The awards also recognise the contribution and achievement of VCAL teachers and partner organisations that have contributed to the development and delivery of innovative VCAL programs.
Guidelines and nomination forms are available at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/vcaa/excellenceawards/vcalachievement/index.html
Nominations close on Friday 2 December 2011.For further information contact Cornelia DeBrincat, Project
Manager – VCAL, on (03) 9651 4383 or email: [email protected]
Judging PanelThe VCAA is pleased to advise that representatives from the following organisations have been appointed to the judging panel for the 2011 VCAL Achievement Awards:• Australian Education Union• Catholic Education Office• Independent Schools Victoria• Consumer Affairs Victoria• Department of Education and Early Childhood Development• Department for Victorian Communities• Local Learning and Employment Network• Victorian Applied Learning Association• Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority• Victorian Institute of Teaching.
VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 13
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noticesGeography teachers’ Association of Victoria (GtAV) 2011 Conference All VCE Geography teachers are welcome to attend the GTAV 2011 Conference at Como House on Wednesday 30 November.
Workshops and seminars from experienced teachers and experts will enable you to refresh content and strategies in VCE Geography Units 1 to 4.
Many fieldwork ideas will be presented including – Rivers, Coasts, Cape Woolamai Dunes, Como House and fieldwork in a small town. Excellent strategies for teaching spatial concepts, workshops on Disease/AIDS & Malaria and Natural and Human Environments of South Korea.
A forum will discuss successful strategies for maintaining VCE Geography classes in your school and an opportunity will be provided to comment on the proposed senior course in the Australian Curriculum: Geography.
Venue: Como Historic House and Gardens, cnr Williams Road and Lechlade Avenue, South Yarra.
Date: Wednesday 30 NovemberTime: 9.00 am – 3.30 pmCost: $175.00 (members), $275.00 (non members)Further details: www.gtav.asn.au or email office@gtav.
asn.au
2011 VCe Philosophy Support ProgramThe Philosophy Program at La Trobe University invites VCE teachers to attend the VCE Philosophy Support Program.
The four-day intensive professional development program provides academic support to complement the practical teaching of the VCE Philosophy curriculum. The four-day intensive program will be divided into two streams: Units 1 and 2 and Units 3 and 4. There will be two half-day short courses offered to both streams on the second day which will focus on ‘Reason and Argument’ and ‘Writing Essays in Philosophy’. Teachers unable to attend the four-day program may wish to register for the short courses only.
When: Tuesday 6 December to Friday 9 December (short courses are scheduled for Wednesday 7 December).
Where: La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Bundoora (Melways ref. 19 G7).
To Register: online registrations can be made at via our secure webpage:http://webpay.latrobe.edu.au/onestop/tranform.cgi?TRAN-NO=870.
Further information: details about what the full La Trobe VCE support program provides are at: www.latrobe.edu.au/events/2011/the-la-trobe-university-vce-philosophy-support-program
Enquiries can be directed to the Philosophy Administration Office on 9479 1673 or email: [email protected].
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14 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
2011 VCe Results and AtAR ServiceA joint venture between the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) and
the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)
Students can access their VCE results, ATAR and ATAR subject scores through the 2011 VCE Results and ATAR Service – an Internet and SMS service operated jointly by the VCAA and VTAC.This service is available to students with at least one Year 12 VCE study and those who have qualified for an ATAR.To access results on this service, students will need their VCAA student number and PIN. Students who are VTAC applicants use their VTAC PIN. If not, they use the first four digits of their birthdate (e.g. 17 July = 1707) as a PIN.
What is available?From 7.00 am Friday 16 December to 5.00 pm Tuesday 20 December students can access the following information:• VCE results (VCAA grades and study scores)• Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) • ATAR subject scores (only via Internet)
All students enrolled in a Year 12 study will be able to access their VCE results. Only those students who meet tertiary entrance requirements will receive an ATAR.
internet AccessThe Internet address for the results service is resultsandatar.vic.edu.auFree Internet access is available 24 hours a day from 7.00 am Friday 16 December until 5.00 pm Tuesday 20 December.
The resultsandatar.vic.edu.au website is optimised for smart phones and other mobile devices with an Internet browser.
Mail DeliveryAustralia Post will deliver VCAA results and ATAR statements in two separate packages. Students can expect these deliveries from Monday 19 December.
If the packages do not arrive in the mail students should check with Australia Post.
SMS AccessTo access VCE results and ATAR via SMS on a mobile phone students should pre-register at any time between 9.00 am Monday 14 November and midnight Thursday 15 December.
Pre-registered students will receive their VCE results and ATARs at 7.00 am Friday 16 December. A short delay can be expected if they register after midnight on 15 December.
To register, students should send a text message as follows:• Student Number (eight digits, not the letter)• Space• PIN (four digits)• Send to 19 787 888 (SMS cost $1.10 max incl. GST)*
Students will receive a confirmation message after registering. If they register after 7.00 am on Friday 16 December they will not receive a confirmation before the results arrive.For any problems with registering they can call the helpline: 1800 501 083.
Post Results and AtAR Service (PRAS)VCAA and VTAC provide a joint information service to answer any queries students may have after they receive their VCE results and ATAR.
The PRAS will operate from 7.00 am to 5.00 pm on Friday 16 December; 9.00 am to 5.00 pm on Saturday 17, Sunday 18, Monday 19 and Tuesday 20 December.PRAS phone numbers:(03) 9651 4640 1800 653 080 PRAS email address:[email protected]
Further informationAll the information on this page is published on an information card for students. VCE providers will be sent bulk copies of the card which should be distributed to students enrolled in VCE Units 3 and 4. For further information refer to the relevant website:
www.vcaa.vic.edu.au OR www.vtac.edu.au
* Be.Interactive – SMS cost $1.10 max (incl. GST).
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VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 15
September 2010 to October 2011The detailed contents for this VCAA Bulletin are on the front cover. This index records items in all issues from September 2010 to October 2011. Index items are followed by issue number and page number. Index to supplements appears on the next page.
AAgricultural and Horticultural Studies
92–6, 83–7Analysing VCE Results
2011 86–42010 85–4
Australian Curriculum 88–4, 87–9, 86–4, 84–4
CCEO’s column 92–3, 91–3,
90–3, 89–3, 88–3, 87–3, 86–3, 85–3, 84–3, 83–3
Chinese SL/SLA 86–9Classical Studies
List 2010–2011 85–7, 8List 2012 90–6–7Units 3 and 4 86–10
DDance
Study design amendment 90–7Text advisory panel
2011 86–7Drama and Theatre Studies
Playlist advisory panel 2011 86–7
eEnglish/English as a Second
Language Text list 2011 83–9Examinations
Assessors 89–5Assessor training 89–5, 87–5Chinese SL and Chinese SLA
written exam 86–9Feedback survey 85–4, 84–4French spelling changes 83–4History: Revolutions 87–4International Studies 86–9Language 87–4Latin prescribed text
2011 83–52012–2012 88–5
October/November 2010 83–42011 91–4
Online assessment 87–4Online marking 83–4Past papers 87–6Periods 2012 88–5Psychology Examination 2
91–4, 90–5Religion and Society examination
92–5Revised studies 86–9Setting and Vetting panels
2012 89–5, 88–5
Specifications 90–5Texts and Traditions 83–4Timetable
2011 86 (liftout), 84–42012 92–5
Training days for assessors 89–4VCE VET Interactive Digital Media
computer based examination 2011 90–6
Extension StudiesChanges for 2012 83–6
HHealth and Human Development
88–7, 87–9Higher Education Studies in the VCE
program 2012 91–5
iImproving outcomes through data
and statistics 86–4Information Technology
Study design errata 89–5IT Applications 86–10
International Politics 86–10International Studies 85–8
JJohn Button Prize 87–15
lLatin study design amendments
91 (liftout), 90–8
MMargaret Schofield Memorial
Scholarship 87–16Mathematics
Mathematical Methods (CAS) 88–7, 83 (liftout)
Use of technology in VCE Mathematics examinations 2011 84–52012 92–7
MediaStudy Design erratum 92–8
MusicPerformance and Investigations
92–8, 88–8Prescribed list of group works
advisory panel 2011 86–7
nNotices 92–11, 91–8, 89–7,
88–10, 87–11, 86–19, 85–10, 84–7, 83–11,12
PPhilosophy
Prescribed texts for 2011 86–11, 83–92012 88–8
Physical Education Study Design 2011–2014 86–11
Plain English Speaking Award 84–12011 91–1, 12, 90–1
R2010 Results and ATAR Service
83 (liftout)
SSeason of Excellence
2011 89–1, 87–1, 84–8, 12, 83–1
2012 92–1Sessional Staff Management System
89–5Student Records and Results
English as a Second Language (ESL) audit 88–6
Extension Studies 83–6Full-fee paying overseas students
88–6, 87–9Key administrative dates for 2011
83–5Small Group Partnerships 88–6Statement of Marks and Inspec-
tion of Scripts 88–7Student address validation
91–5, 83–5Studio Arts 88–9VCAL certification at mid year
88–6VCE and VCAL Administrative
Handbook 2011 Errata 89–4, 88–5
VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook 2012 Structural changes 92–4
Victorian Student Number 92–4, 91–4
tTexts and Traditions
Set texts and passages for Spe-cial Study 2012 91–6
VVCAA Bulletin online 91–1VCAL
Achievement Awards 2010 88–1, 86–16, 84–72011 92–10, 91–6
Certificate in General Education for Adults 86–17-19
Hands on graphic 86–16Important dates 83–11Induction workshop for new VCAL
providers 91–6, 84–7New providers 87–10Quality Assurance 87–10,
86–16Review of Professional
Development Skills Unit 89–6, 85–9
Skills for Further Study 87–10, 86–16, 83–10
Themed VCAL 2010 84–72011 85–92012 91–6
Unit accreditation periods 86–16Unit Assessment Planning Guide
83–11Update 92–10, 85–9,
83–10Use of name 86–16
VCE Achiever 92–15, 16, 90–11, 89–11, 88–15, 16 86–1, 85–15, 16, 84–10, 11, 83–15, 16
VCE ImplementationBriefings 86–6LOTE nomenclature 87–7Music 2011–2015 87–6Revised study designs
publication online 86–7Studies for implementation in
2012 89–4Study design changes
86–9Workshops 87–7, 8
VCE Results and ATAR Service 2011 92–12
VCE ReviewAccreditation periods 1 January
2011 86–7, 85–62012 92–5
Advisory Panels 86–7Assessment handbooks
2011 84–4Coursework reports 2010 87–6Philosophy 85–5Review of studies
2011 91–4, 90–4, 89–4, 88–4, 86–7, 85–42010 84–4, 83–6
Study Design wall chart 2011 86–7
Study Review Panels 86–7Visual Communication and
Design 84–4VCE School Leaders briefings
87–4, 86–6VCE VET
Agriculture, Horticulture and Land Management 92–9
Animal Studies 92–9
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16 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
Australian Quality Training Frame-work (AQTF) 2010 83–10
Automotive 84–6Briefings 85–8Community Services 86–14Coursework Audit 86–14Engineering 92–9Furnishing program
92–9, 84–6Health 92–9Hospitality 88–9, 86–12Integrated Technologies 83–9Interactive Digital Media
exam 86–12supplementary advice 89–6
Laboratory Skills 84–6MESAB Training Awards 2011
87–10Music 92–9, 87–10, 83–9National VET information update
90–8Professional development 86–13
Program redevelopment 2012 90–8
Program update 2011 86–15, 85–82012 90–8
Reference groups for programs under review 86–14
Revised and new programs 91–7, 88–9, 86–14
School-based Apprenticeships 87–10
Sport and Recreation 92–9State Reviewers 86–14Statewide briefings
84–6, 92–9TAFE Development Centre (TDC)
calendar 90–8Training.gov.au 91–7Upcoming VET events 90–8WorldSkills Australia 90–8
Victorian Student Number 89–4
Index to supplements
Bulletin No. 851. Important administrative dates
2. Revised VCE Studies for Implementation in 2011 – Frequently Asked Questions
Bulletin No. 861. 2011 Administrative Advice for school-based assessment
2. VCE Music 2011–20153. 2011 VCE Drama and Theatre Studies Playlist
4. VCE English/ESL / VCE Literature Text lists 20115. VET Scored Assessment in Community Services
Bulletin No. 871. VCE 2011 Drama Solo Performance examination
and Theatre Studies Monologue Performance examination2. Mathematics Methods (CAS) study advice
Bulletin No. 891. VCE Studies accredited for implementation
in 2012: summary of changes
COPY DeADlineS FOR 2012
issue no. and Month Date of publication Copy deadline
no. 94 February Wednesday 1 February Wednesday 11 January
no. 95 April Wednesday 4 April Wednesday 21 March
no. 96 June Wednesday 6 June Wednesday 23 May
no. 97 July Wednesday 11 July Wednesday 27 June
no. 98 August Wednesday 8 August Wednesday 25 July
no. 99 September Wednesday 12 September Wednesday 29 August
no. 100 October Wednesday 10 October Wednesday 26 September
no. 101 november thursday 8 november Wednesday 24 October
VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 17
Distribution22 September 2011 to 26 October 2011
notices143/2011 re Submission of SIAR 3 – School-assessed
Task scores 144/2011 re 2012 LOTE: Second Language Applications145/2011 re VCE Results Service and Post Results and
ATAR Service146/2011 re Victorian Student Number (VSN)
information147/2011 re Fax Numbers for Delivery of Examination
Centre Messages, October/November Examination Period
148/2011 re October/November 2011 Examination Centre Messages: Delivery Methods
149/2011 re VCE Season of Excellence -Top Arts deadline and confirmation of exhibition dates
150/2011 re VCE Season of Excellence 2012 – Top Class Sound date and venue confirmed
151/2011 re VCE Season of Excellence 2012 – Top Designs and Top Screen application deadline
152/2011 re Submission of Indicative Grades for November 2011 Examinations
155/2011 re VCAA VET, VCAL & DEECD Briefings 2011
156/2011 re VCE Achiever Ceremony Invitation157/2011 re Implementation of the Australian Curriculum158/2011 re School-assessed Task Visitation Information159/2011 re Margaret Schofield memorial Scholarship
Application160/2011 re SIAR 3 School-assessed Task Review
Feedback161/2011 re Australian Curriculum Consultation:
Geography F–12162/2011 re Introducing the AusVELS website, overview
and features
163/2011 re VET Interactive Digital Media VCE Season of Excellence 2012
164/2011 re Submission of SIAR 4 – VCE Unit 4 Coursework Scores
PublishingOctober 2011 VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET No. 92October 2011 VCAA Bulletin EY–10 No. 55
VCE Post Results and ATAR Wallet Card
internetOctober 2011 VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET No. 92October 2011 VCAA Bulletin EY–10 No. 55
VCE2012 VCE Assessment Handbooks: Accounting, English
Language, Industry and Enterprise, Outdoor and Environmental Studies, Product Design and Technology, Sociology
VCE MediaAmmended study design and erratum
Updated Alternative Works Appplication forms: Music Investigation Units 3 and 4, Music Performance Units 3 and 4
June 2011 Assessment reports: Accounting, Biology, Environmental Science, Psychology, Physics
18 VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011
VCe ACHieVeR
VCAA BULLETIN VCE, VCAL and VET NOVEMBER 2011 19
The VCE Achiever Award is coordinated by the VCAA to recognise the efforts of VCE students in promoting community involvement in their local school and wider community. VCE Achievers actively participate in such activities as the arts, environmental protection, aged care, hospitality, local council initiatives, fundraising and public speaking. Finalists receive a three-month subscription to the Herald Sun, and in November one overall winner will receive a notepad computer donated by Lenovo Australia. Students in government, Catholic and independent schools may apply for the award in 2011 by using the application form on the VCAA website (Excellence and Awards > VCE Achiever Award).
VCe Achievers
Sienna Harris – timboon P-12 School
Sienna is passionate about the environment, in particular the ocean, and has been an active member of the local Coast Care and Surf Life Saving Clubs for many years. She has been described in the press as an ‘environmental warrior’ and the list of her accomplishments is long.
‘The beach has become my life and there’s no question that it’s going to be my career’, says Sienna.
Community-based achievementsFollowing her passion for the environment, Sienna attended a two-day Power Shift Youth Climate Summit at Deakin University in 2010 and this year represented the South West Victorian region at the Power Shift Youth Climate Summit in Brisbane. Power Shift is a project of the Australian Youth Climate Coalition – an organisation whose mission is to build a generation-wide movement to tackle climate change before it’s too late.
In Year 10 Sienna undertook work experience at Coastcare in Geelong under the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Coastcare encourages community volunteers to care for their coast and this inspired Sienna to launch a Regional Youth Coastal Network aimed at educating students about the beach and encouraging them to meet regularly to discuss actions they can take to preserve our wonderful Southern coastline.
Sienna’s involvement in Coastcare has opened other doors; for example, the opportunity to talk at a Western Coastal and Marine Forum at Deakin University and at the Bellarine Catchment Network Coastal Forum in Queenscliff last year. It also inspired her to consider a career in the area of conservation.
Last year Sienna was appointed a Youth Councillor on the Corangamite Shire Council. This is a new initiative aiming to give young people an opportunity to have a voice and provide input into local government policy and initiatives. She was a driving force behind the petitions to government to reverse its decision to cut the Tuesday bus service between Timboon, Simpson, Cobden and Camperdown, a service essential to connect rurally isolated youth, elderly and the disabled.
Other local activities for Sienna have included the Our PlaYce Program where she was involved in organising a Battle of the Bands competition and other Freeza events. The aim of Our PlaYce is for young people to identify a need within a shire and devise a plan to address it. As a member of the Corangamite Youth Council and Our Playce Team, she wrote and submitted an application for a Women’s Leadership Grant in order to run a local Women’s Youth Leadership Day; assisted with the organisation and running of the annual Corangamite Youth Achievers Awards, and helped to open a Youth Space in nearby Terang.
School-based achievements Sienna is both School and House Captain this year. She coordinated the school’s World Vision 40 Hour Famine program and regularly pitches in to help with a wide range of school activities such as musical productions, sporting events and canteen duty.
FutureSienna has applied for a Bachelor of Environmental Science degree course at two universities – Wild Life and Conversation Biology at Deakin University and Ecology and Sustainability at Griffith University in Queensland. ‘Whatever direction life takes me, I know I will fulfil my dream of becoming an environmentalist. I would like to be able to give back to my community and enlighten and educate others about the importance of protecting our environment.’
VCAA Bulletin (VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET; VCAA Bulletin EY–10) is an official publication of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Principals are advised to ensure that it is circulated among teaching staff. One copy should be filed for reference.
The VCAA Bulletin is also available online at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.auVictorian schools only may photocopy this publication for use by teachers and students.The VCAA does not endorse the products or services of any external organisation’s notices published in the VCAA Bulletin.
editor Robyn Scott desktop publishing Heather Hoareeditorial enquiries: tel: (03) 9651 4621, fax: (03) 9651 4354, email: [email protected] enquiries: telephone Ian Jordan: (03) 9651 4326
ISSN 1448-2363
Correspondence relating to this publication should be addressed to: Scott Robinson, VCAA, c/o above address
Subscription to the VCAA BulletinSubscription to the VCAA Bulletin online is free. Go to the VCAA website to subscribe: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
Angus Pritchard – Plenty Valley Christian College
Angus is committed to making a difference in the lives of others. Through his interactions with young asylum seekers he has cultivated friendships and sought to make their lives better while in detention. As a volunteer CFA fire-fighter, Angus is responsible for protecting the lives and property of those in his community.
Community-based achievementsAngus was inspired to visit asylum seekers in detention after researching the topic for a VCE English oral presentation. ‘I wanted to escape the hysteria generated by the topic and explore for myself what detention centres were really like. There are people who are very vocal about this issue, yet few have experienced detention centres firsthand.’
On his many visits Angus was deeply moved by the plight of the detainees. Most were Hazara Afghan boys aged 16 to 18, alone in detention after escaping war and persecution. Many did not know whether any of their families were still alive.
The detainees rarely received visitors their own age so Angus was a welcome guest.
He describes the atmosphere at the centre as tense, and many of the boys were stressed and depressed about their confinement. Also the detainees only receive schooling on three days out of 25. So to improve their daily lives in detention, Angus persuaded his school’s art department to run lessons.
Like many teenage boys, Angus and the detainees bonded over sport. This inspired him to organise a soccer match between them and students from his school. Angus worked hard to persuade the detention centre management of the benefits the game could have on the detainees’ morale. ‘The detainees were really excited by the idea because it gave them something to look forward to. The game also inspired ongoing friendships between my school friends and the boys from the detention centre.’
Some of the asylum seekers Angus befriended have been released into community detention where they can now work and study. Angus still maintains close friendships with them; he has
taken them on tours around Melbourne and has been invited to a premiere of a documentary featuring some of the former detainees.
For two years Angus has been a volunteer CFA fire-fighter for the Diamond Creek Fire Brigade. He is the youngest member of the brigade where he is training to extinguish different types of fire. He also educates the community about fire safety. ‘I love my work. There have been a few wake-up calls at two in the morning to attend traffic accidents in the cold and rain, but despite that I find it very rewarding.’
School-based achievementsAngus is coordinator for the school’s Youngbloods Youth Donor Program, which involves encouraging and organising students to donate blood. ‘By getting students to donate with their friends, it makes this potentially unpleasant experience easier to deal with and it also develops civic pride’.
Angus has been a House Captain for many years, leading and encouraging his House in many sporting competitions. As male valedictorian, Angus will speak at a school presentation on behalf of his Year 12 peers.
Future plansNext year Angus would like to study for a degree in Bio-medicine at the University of Melbourne. After that he hopes to become a doctor in the Defence Force or work for Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). ‘I really want to work as a doctor in the remote areas of Afghanistan, but all my Afghan friends think I’m crazy!’
