emerald secondary college access to excellence

Emerald Secondary College Access to Excellence

2018 Senior School

Student Handbook

Student Name: ______________________________________________________________________ Home Group: ___________

425 Belgrave- Gembrook Road Emerald VIC 3782

Tel: (03) 5968 5388 Fax: (03) 5968 5322

Web: http://www.emerald.vic.edu.au/ Email: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Senior School Student Handbook 2018

Emerald Secondary College Page | 2

Contents Introduction Pg. 3

Senior School Team Pg. 4

Senior School Key Dates Pg. 5-6

Introduction to Senior Studies Pg. 6

The VCE Requirements

Duration Pg. 6

Satisfactory Completion of the VCE Pg. 6

Satisfactory Completion of a Unit Pg. 6-7

VCE Program and Assessment

Year 11 Program Pg. 7

Unit 1 & 2 Assessment Pg. 7

Year 12 VCE Program Pg. 7

SACs and SATs Unit 3 & 4 Assessment Pg. 7

What do S, N and NA mean? Pg. 7-8

Attendance Pg. 8

Special Provision Pg. 8-9

Unit ‘N’ Results Pg. 9

Extensions Pg. 10

The GAT Exam Pg. 10

Examination Expectations Attendance requirements, Reporting Pg. 10-11

Exam Dates June and November Pg. 11

Policies and Processes

Possible Breach of Authentication Pg. 12

Plagiarism/Copying Pg. 12

Students Meeting Deadlines Pg. 13

Presentation of SAT’s Pg. 13

Promotions Policy Pg. 13-14

Acceleration Studies Pg. 14

Course Load (VCE) Pg. 14-15

Distance Education Pg. 15

Unscored VCE Pg. 15

Final Day for Course Changes Pg. 15

Study Information for Students

Successful Study – What does it look like? Pg. 16

Homework versus Home Study Pg. 16-17

Advantages of Study Pg. 17

Drive Your Own Learning Pg. 18

Use of Study Periods Pg. 18

VCAL Studies What is VCAL? What are the Aims of VCAL? Pg. 18

What Must Students do to receive a VCAL Qualification? Pg. 18

VCAL Attendance Pg. 19

Assessment of VCAL Pg. 20

VCAL Assessment Explained Pg. 20

VCAL Redemption Process Pg. 20

VCAL Curriculum Strands Pg. 20-22

VET Studies Pg. 22

Appendices/Forms/Applications Appendix 1 – Satisfactory Completion of a Unit Pg. 23

Appendix 2 – Process for VCE Redemption and Reschedule Pg. 24

Appendix 3 – Process for Year 10 CAT Redemption and Reschedule Pg. 25

Appendix 4 – Process for VCAL Redemption and Reschedule Pg. 26

Appendix 5 – Application to Redemption Result Pg. 27

Appendix 6 – Notification of Potential Breach of Authentication Pg. 28

Appendix 7 - Senior School Request to Change Studies Application Form Pg. 29

Appendix 8 – Application for Assessment Task Extension Pg. 30

Appendix 9 – VCAL Program – Student Contract Pg. 31

Appendix 10 – VCAL Program – Media Consent Form Pg. 32

Appendix 11 – Driving to School Application Pg. 33-35



Introduction

This handbook is designed to assist students at Emerald Secondary College in matters relating to Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) studies in 2018. It also contains information about specific rules, processes and procedures that are applied in Senior School at Emerald Secondary College. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) is responsible for the development, maintenance and implementation of the VCE. The information in this booklet is largely based on the ‘VCE/VCAL Administrative Handbook’, an official publication of VCAA available online at: http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/pages/schooladmin/handbook/2018/index.aspx. Students enrolled at Emerald Secondary College must abide by the administrative guidelines and regulations of the VCE/VCAL. It is the responsibility of students and their parents to be fully aware of VCAA regulations and the expectations of Emerald Secondary College relating to the VCE/VCAL. Parents and students should contact the relevant Senior School Team member or specific teaching staff if they have any questions relating to the rules, processes and procedures contained within this handbook. Emerald Secondary College - Senior School Team

http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/pages/schooladmin/handbook/2017/index.aspx



Senior Sub-School Personnel for 2018 Senior School Assistant Principal Estelle Alder Senior School Leader Jason Nicholas Career and Pathways Leader Nik Smith Yr. 12 Year Level Coordinator Tanya Moran Yr. 11 Year Level Coordinator David Carnie Yr. 10 Year Level Coordinator Michael Nelson VCAL/VET Coordinator Shane Closter Senior School Administration Assistant – VCE, VCAL & VET Meg Gogerly VASS Administrator Meg Gogerly Wellbeing Felicity Wooden & Daryl Bridges

Senior Studies at Emerald Secondary College 2018 VCE Biology Literature Business Management Maths (General) Chemistry Maths (Foundation) Computing Maths (Further) Drama Maths (Methods) English Maths (Specialist) Food Studies Media Geography Physical Education Health & Human Development Physics History – Ancient and Revolutions Psychology Informatics - IT Product Design and Technology Japanese Studio Arts Legal Studies Theatre Studies Visual Communication VCAL Literacy VETIS Numeracy Certificate III Sport and Recreation Personal Development Certificate II Community Services Work Related Skills



Key Dates for Senior School Students 2018 Please make a note of the dates listed below and ensure all dates are adhered to.

Wk. Date Event

1 Tuesday 30th January Term 1 Starts

3 Monday 12th & Thursday 22nd February School Photos

Monday 12th February Class of 2017 Reunion

4 Tuesday 20th February Year 12 VCE Student/Parent Information Evening

Tuesday 20th Feb Swimming Sports

5 Monday 26th February Special Consideration Applications Due

Monday 26th February Yr 11 Study Sensei – Period 2 and PASE

Tuesday 27th February Study Skills Evening for Parents – 6:30 EPAC

Tuesday 27th February Yr 12 Retreat Day 1 – Period 3&4

7 Tuesday 27th February Labour Day

8 Friday 23rd March Athletics Carnival

Sunday 25th March Year 11 Central Australia Tour departs

9 Wednesday 28th March Student Round Conferences (Afterschool)

Thursday 29th March Student Round Conferences 10am-2pm

Thursday 29th March Term 1 Ends

Friday 30th March Good Friday

1 Monday 16th April Term 2 Starts

Monday 16th April Curriculum Day

2 Monday 23rd April Year 12 Retreat Day 2 All day

Monday 23rd April Year 11 RYDA (Road Safety Excursion)

Monday 24th April School Cross Country

3

Wednesday 25th April Anzac Day

Monday 30th April Yr 10 METEC Driver Ed Day

Friday 4th May Year 11 VCE & Careers Expo Caulfield Racecourse

4 Monday 7th May Careers Week begins

7

Tuesday 28th May Yr 12 TIS Excursion (8:45-11am)

8 Tuesday 5th – 7th June VCE Theatre Performance (Arts Festival)

Friday 8th June – Friday 15th June Year 12 Mid-Year (in class) Exams

9

Monday 11th June Queen’s Birthday

11 Monday 25th –Friday 29th June Year 10 Work Experience

Friday 29th June Term 2 Ends

Monday 2nd – Friday 13th July Year 12 Holiday Classes – week 2

1

Monday 16th July Term 3 Starts

Monday 16th July Curriculum Day

Friday 20th July Year 10 SPOT Jobs Career Expo (Melb Exhibition Centre)

3

Monday 30th July Future Options Domain Presentations periods 5&6 (current Year 10)

Tuesday 31st July Future Options Expo and Information Evening (current Year 10 )

4

Tuesday 7th August Yr. 12 Parent & Student VTAC Information Evening

Friday 10th August Current Year 11 Course Selection Day 9am-3pm (normal classes)

5 Thursday 17th August Current Year 10 Course Selection Day 12-8pm (normal classes)

7 Tuesday 28th August Year 12 Retreat Day 3 (VCAL)

Wednesday 29th August Year 12 Day 3 (VCE)

10 Thursday 20th September Student Round Conferencing (afterschool)



Friday 21st September Student Round Conferencing (10am – 2 pm)

Friday 21st September Term 3 Ends

Year 12 Holiday Practice Exams (week 2) Monday 1st October – Friday 5th October (see timetable)

1 Monday 8th October Term 4 Starts

Monday 8th October – Friday 19th October Unit 3 / 4 Exam Revision begins

Monday 8th October – Sunday 4th November Performance and Language Exams

Wednesday 10th October SEAS Closes

2 Friday 19th October Year 12 Senior School – Final Address Meeting

3 Monday 22nd October Year 12 VCE & VCAL Last Official Day of school

Tuesday 23rd October Year 12 Celebration Morning, Farewell Assembly and Valedictory Dinner

4 Wednesday 31st October – Wednesday 21st November Year 12 VCAA End of Year Exams

5 Tuesday 6th November Melbourne Cup Day

7 Tuesday 20th November Year 11 Last Day of 2018 Classes

Wednesday 21st November Year 10 Last Day of 2018 Classes

Wednesday 21st November - Tuesday 27th November Year 11 End of Year Exams

Thursday 22nd November - Tuesday 27th November Year 10 End of Year Exams

8 Wednesday 28th November Student Free Day

Thursday 29th November – Wednesday 12th December Whole School 2019 Kickstart Program

10

Friday 14th December ATAR Results Released

Thursday 13th December Subject Change Request day

11 Monday 17th December – Thursday 20th December Year 12 Change of Preference Period

Friday 22nd December Term 4 Ends

Introduction to Senior Studies

The VCAA (Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority) offers a diverse range of subjects that may contribute to a VCE or VCAL. Most students’ VCE programs consist of approximately 22 units most commonly completed over two years.

The VCE Requirements Duration The VCE is most commonly completed over two years, however there is no limit to the number of years you may take to accumulate unit results towards achieving the Certificate. If you require an ATAR score you must complete the program within 3 years. The VCE is made up of many different units of study. A study is a subject, for example, English or Biology. It is made up of four units (Units 1, 2, 3 and 4), each of which is a semester in length. Units 3 and 4 of a study must be completed as a sequence (within the same year). Satisfactory Completion of the VCE To meet the requirements of the VCE, each student must satisfy the following:

demonstrate all learning outcomes in a minimum of 16 Units (achieve an “S”), which must include:

3 units of English or English equivalent (ESL, Literature or Language), two of which must be a Unit 3 and 4 sequence

3 sequences of unit 3 and 4 (year 12) studies other than English

Satisfactory Completion of a Unit To gain a pass, students must demonstrate an understanding of each required Learning Outcome in the unit by completing designated School Assessed Coursework (SAC). If a Learning Outcome is not met satisfactorily this will result in an “N” for the Unit, irrespective of performance on the other outcomes.



Course theory and practice is provided as part of the ordinary activities in class, however students are expected to commit to substantial homework requirements in order to successfully negotiate courses of study undertaken in each unit. It is the class teacher’s responsibility to determine whether a student has satisfactorily demonstrated a Learning Outcome. Students must satisfy set standards in order to pass a unit. A student who fails to reach a satisfactory standard (N result) on a SAC (School Assessed Coursework) or SAT (School Assessed Task) will have an opportunity to re-sit the task (see Redemption process – page 24), or complete alternate one as determined by the teacher to meet the outcome requirements. The mark from the initial SAC or SAT will be used to contribute to a student’s study score/overall grade, as students are only attempting to gain an S for the Outcome in via the Redemption process – (Appendix 2- pg. 24). All Redemptions must be completed within 1 week of the student being informed of an ‘N’ result. A SAC or SAT can only be Redeemed once. In the event of a student not successfully demonstrating the outcome in the second attempt, students can ‘Appeal the Redemption Process’ in an effort to be provided a further opportunity to do so. Upon receipt of the appeal, the Senior School Advisory Panel will meet to determine if another opportunity will be granted. Parents/Guardians will be notified by class teachers via an Amber Chronicle post whenever a student is unsuccessful in a SAC or SAT. In addition, phone or email contact may occur. Parents will receive communication from the Senior School about the importance of preparing for any upcoming Redemption task and the potential consequences should this be unsuccessfully completed. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact student’s class teachers or the Senior School if clarification or further detail is required as to how they can support their son/daughters learning will have notified parents definitely prior to a third attempt – they may well choose to notify parents on second attempts, to promote healthy study habits in students. If any outcome is not completed satisfactorily by a student, then the result for that outcome and the unit will be an “N”.

VCE Program and Assessment

Year 11 VCE program Typically, a student will complete 6 subjects/studies in Year 11. Some students apply and are deemed able to do a Year 12 study as one of the 6 (see Acceleration Studies page 14). Unit 1/2 Assessment The VCE is a dual level certificate (Year 11 and 12) where students must demonstrate knowledge and skills to a satisfactory level (‘S’). Students must achieve 50% or greater for each SAC/SAT task. Work requirements (such as coursework/book work, homework tasks, etc.) are additional tasks that students are required to undertake to show an understanding of a Learning Outcome and therefore necessary to achieve an ‘S’ result. . Year 12 VCE program Year 12 students will study 5 subjects in Year 12. SACs and SATs – Unit 3/4 Assessment Unit 3/4 studies have at least 50% of their assessment based on exams except for Folio/Performing/Language based subjects. The other 50% is based on School Assessed Coursework (SACs) or School Assessed Tasks (SATs). Teachers select from the range of options for these as outlined within the relevant VCAA Study Design. Students will be clearly informed of the tasks they are required to undertake for each SAC or SAT by their classroom teacher. What do S, N, and NA mean? School Assessed Tasks/Coursework and work requirements use these codes to indicate the level of achievement to students on work submitted:



Work or tests are marked according to a criteria sheet/assessment rubric and a mark (VCE/VCAL Outcome – see Assessment Scale below) will be allocated according to how many marks are available for the task. Satisfactory completion will result in an “S”

If not submitted by the due date, the item receives an “NA”, or Not Assessed.

Work graded as “UG or Very Low” for VCE will require students to complete a Redemption Task in an effort to satisfy the outcome.

Attendance Senior school students are expected to:

Attend all timetabled classes, excursions, assemblies etc.

Be punctual to all classes

Have a minimum 90% attendance for each Unit of study (VCE% on Compass) At the conclusion of a Unit (VCE or VCAL), if a student has less than 90% attendance for each study/subject, then this will lead to an ‘N’ result. All absences need be approved by the College. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) mandates a requirement of attendance for teachers to validate/authenticate student work. The following absences will be approved by the College and not be considered as part of the minimum 90% attendance requirement:

Illness - a medical certificate is required

Bereavement – contact the Senior School prior to the absence where possible

Other Educational Activity (e.g. if you are on an excursion for a distance education unit/ excursion/ sitting an exam etc.) – you must notify the VCE/VCAL Team Leaders

Other – if there are other valid reasons, these will need to be discussed with the Senior School Leader before the absence (if possible) or as soon as possible afterwards if this is not possible.

Family holidays, part time work, license tests and other similar causes for absence are not acceptable School Approved absences. The Senior School Advisory Panel will meet with students with attendance below 90% at the conclusion of each Unit to allow the student and family to present any extenuating circumstances to be considered under Special Provision related to the student’s inadequate attendance. At this meeting students will be informed of the final unit result for any affected studies and the impact that this may have on their pathway at the College. Experience shows that one of the first indicators of a student being at risk is when he/she starts missing class. Address it early – avoid developing poor attendance behaviours, which can quickly result in unsuccessful performance.



Special Provision Special Provision is designed to allow students who have experienced hardship the maximum opportunity to demonstrate what they know and what they can do.

Please note – No Special Provision will be applied in VCE or VCAL without prior authorisation from either the Senior School Leader or Assistant Principal for the Senior School. There are three forms of provision:

Curriculum Delivery and Student Programs / School Based Assessment

Special Examination Arrangements/External Assessment

Derived Exam Scores

In each case there are specific eligibility requirements that apply. For the first one, the school determines what is suitable, while the school applies to the VCAA for the second two. In considering any ongoing Special Provision, the College has a responsibility to only grant Special Provision where there is significant documented evidence and that it is believed will be approved by the VCAA for Special Examination Arrangements.

Grounds for claiming Special Provision include:

Significantly adversely affected by illness (physical or psychological), personal environment or other serious cause.

Disadvantaged by disability or impairment, including a learning disability and hearing or vision impaired.

Special Provision strategies used in VCAA exams include:

Extra writing time to complete the exam

Rest breaks

Provision of appropriate materials dependent upon the student’s needs e.g. a laptop

Provision of a scribe if necessary

Special Provision strategies used in SACs/SATs to enable students to address their issues include:

Allowing the student to complete at a later date

Rest breaks

Provision of a scribe if necessary

Allowing the student extra time

Access to a separate room

Setting a substitute task of the same type/challenge

Replacing a task with a different type

Using a planned task to assess more outcomes, or aspects of outcomes, than originally intended

Using technology, aides or other special arrangements to undertake assessment tasks

For students completing Unit 3 / 4 studies, Special Examination Arrangements can be requested if the condition would disadvantage the student in exams. Please note, the deadline for applications is in March, so applicable students need to be identified early. Families are prompted to consider if Special Provision is applicable during the First Day Conference process.

School-based applications for all coursework and Unit 1 / 2 exams will be dealt with by the Senior School and, if approved, the student’s teachers will be notified of the strategies that should be applied as part of this consideration. This can be used as part of a formal application to the VCAA.

External applications for Special Examination Conditions and Derived Scores will be completed by the student/Senior School Leader and then forwarded to the VCAA.

Students should inform the Senior School prior to the VCAA Special Provision due to have their Special Provision application processed prior to the GAT (General Achievement Test). This is of particular importance for any student completing a Unit 3 study.



Unit N Results If a student has failed an outcome (and therefore the unit) they are to continue to attend the class. Year 11 students may, through Careers and Pathways counselling, select an alternate unit of study to commence studying. Year 12 VCE students are unable to commence a new study and will be required to remain in this class, completing study for their remaining Unit3/4 subjects. This is to ensure students are accountable for this additional time within their timetable and help protect their future success within their VCE. Any distraction or non-attendance within this time will be dealt with according to the College Student Management processes.

Extensions A student may apply for an extension of time at the school level to complete assessment tasks, SACs or SATs by using the Application for Assessment Task Extension form (Appendix 8 – pg. 30). An extension will only be granted on the basis of a medical certificate or other substantial evidence of significant reason, such as a death in the family, other family crisis, or having to represent the school or alternative body at an event. Wherever possible, the extension request should be made prior to the due date. In extenuating circumstances in Semester 1, S or N results can be held over as N (redeemable) under this condition.

The GAT Exam The GAT is a test undertaken by all students completing any Unit 3 / 4 Studies including VCE/VET. It is used as a checking tool in the statistical moderation of SACs, and in the generation of Study Scores/ATARs along with Indicative Grades and class result profiles via Special Provision should students be unable to complete exams effectively (Derived Exam Score). Please note that this is by application to VCAA and may or may not be approved. It is in the students’ best interests to complete this test to the best of their abilities, as it may well affect themselves and all students in their class if they don’t. The GAT may also now be used to assist in applications to courses at some universities.

Examination Expectations Examinations are an important part of school life. They form a significant part of assessment in formal education and are the primary source of information used to assess a student’s eligibility to enter tertiary education. Examinations are a means of assessing how well students have understood a common core of required knowledge and skills. Success in examinations requires students to be able to • keep an organised record of work over a semester or a year • summarise and review a number of topics in a subject at one time • memorise important knowledge and practise subject based skills • organise time for study • manage stress levels, and • work under examination conditions Emerald Secondary College recognises that training in, preparing for, and sitting an examination are valuable skills for students in preparation for senior studies, both in secondary and tertiary education. The setting of semester examinations in all subjects for Year 10 to Year 11 is a school policy. The Year 12 exams are set and administered by VCAA at the end of Unit 4 between October and December. Year 10 exams and understanding for the semester. At Year 11, the Semester 1 exam assesses skills and knowledge across all outcomes in Unit 1. Likewise, in Semester 2, the Year 11 exam will draw upon outcomes covered in Units 2. Attendance at examinations is an expectation for all students at the College. Parents should contact the Senior School Leader if there are issues regarding student attendance in the examination period. Special consideration will be given on medical or compassionate grounds when formal documentation is provided. Family holidays are not an approved excuse for non-attendance at examinations. Formal documentation includes medical certificates or certificates of attendance from other authorised organisations for exceptional circumstances.



Attendance in examination periods Year 10 and Year 11 students are expected to attend school for exams only during the exam period. Students who are absent for an examination The school will not provide alternative times for students to sit exams (unless an exam is rescheduled due to an exam timetable clash). Students who are absent have to provide the school with a medical certificate or official notification providing a reason for absence. Family holidays are not recognised by the school as an approved reason for absence from an examination. Students who are absent from an exam with an approved absence will be awarded an NA. Year 11 VCE exams form part of compulsory coursework and must be attended and completed to a satisfactory standard to achieve a Unit ‘S’ result. Students on Modified Programs/Special Provision Examinations may be modified according to individual student requirements. Modifications may include such things as adjusting content, allowing extra time, providing assistance with writing, use of a laptop, breaks, separate rooms etc. Students enrolled during the semester Students who are enrolled more than ten weeks prior to the examination (including holidays) are expected to complete the exam. Students who are enrolled 5-10 weeks before the exam are expected to sit the examination; however, teachers should modify the expectations according to the areas of study that the student has covered. Students who are enrolled less than four weeks prior to the exam will be expected to complete an alternative task (set by the classroom teacher) during the examination time. Reporting on examinations Examination results for Years 10 and Year 11 are reported as a separate item on the mid and end of year reports. The Year 10 Exam forms part of the Semester Result. Year 11 examinations are separate to School Assessed Course work (SAC). An exam may be used as a final redemption task to be awarded an S for an outcome. Students must achieve a minimum 40% on exams or a Redemption will be required.

Exam Dates Senior School Exams The Emerald Secondary College policy requires assessment tasks that reflect what is required at Unit 3/4, to provide the best possible learning preparation for the following year. The assessment tasks during semester are used to allow students to exhibit Learning Outcomes, while formal exams in June and November complete the preparation. Year 10 & 11 Exams: Mid-Year: Friday 8th June – Friday 15th June End of Year: Year 11 Wednesday 21st November – Tuesday 27th November Year 10 Thursday 22nd November – Tuesday 27th November During the Year 10 and 11 exam period regular classes will not take place. Attendance at exams is compulsory for all students. These exams are important and are a student’s and College’s best guide to their likely performance in Year 12.

Year 12 Exam periods: Unit 3 Practice Exam: Friday 8th June – Friday 15th June GAT: Wednesday 13th June Practice Exams: Monday 1st October – Friday 5th October Performance/Language: Monday 8th October – Sunday 4th November End of Year: Wednesday 31st October – Wednesday 21st November



Policies and Procedures Possible Breach of Authentication SACs and SATs are subject to VCAA authentication requirements – students must submit only their own work, and acknowledge other influences in their work appropriately. Please note that the onus of proof here is on the student – they are required to supply drafts and evidence of background work in the event of an appeal. The College Community will be notified of these rules by:

Staff will be alerted by staff meetings and their handbook.

Students will be alerted via this handbook, through other publications, and at level assemblies.

The wider school community will be informed through newsletter items and at VCE Information sessions. Where a teacher is not satisfied that work submitted is the student’s own, they must complete a pro forma Notification of Potential Breach of Authentication Form (Appendix 6 pg. 28), and submit it with the evidence to the Senior School Leader. This should occur within 2 days of submission. This process may also be initiated as a result of allegations made by another student/s. The Senior School Leader will ensure that the process for breaches of this nature are followed correctly from this point as per the Handbook, and will keep the teacher informed at each stage of the process. The stages are as follows:

Notification made to Senior School Leader or Assistant Principal (Senior School)

Potential breach investigated

If necessary, a notification of a formal interview with a Principal elected panel will be convened if there is sufficient reason to believe that a breach may have occurred.

Where it is determined that a breach has occurred, the Principal (or nominee) will inform the student in writing of the penalty imposed and the provisions for appeal. Notification should be made within 14 days of the initial interview. The Principal (or nominee) will inform the VCAA of the breach according to their requirements. Students have the right to appeal the decision. Students in this situation should speak with the Senior School Leader if they intend to pursue this course of action.

Sanctions that may be applied as an outcome of Breaching Authentication can range significantly in severity. These can involve consequences including repeating a set task, to dismissal from all VCE programs. The final consequence depends entirely on the circumstances and nature of the offence. All such breaches are treated extremely seriously by the VCAA. Plagiarism/ Copying In line with breaching authentication, Emerald Secondary College has developed a policy for plagiarism offences on work in units of study other than official SACs and SATs. Teachers who suspect either of the above of a student in their class will bring evidence to the notice of the Senior School Leader. A Senior School Advisory Panel will be convened, and students will be allowed to present information to assist them in their case. Students who are found guilty of submitting work that is plagiarised or copied on a first occasion will be required to complete an alternative task to meet the outcome, however they will get zero for the assessment task. This has implications for passing the subject. Any students found guilty a second time in a year will receive an N for whatever unit in which the plagiarism was committed.



Students Meeting Deadlines If a student does not meet a due date for an Assessment Task and has not been granted an extension, he or she may be required to attend a Senior School Advisory Panel Interview to decide the consequences. This applies to both SAC, SAT and CAT components. If a student has a School Approved absence for the above, then the task or a replacement task can be completed through the Reschedule process. If the absence was not approved, then the student scores zero for the task, but will be granted a further opportunity to demonstrate the Learning Outcome via the Redemption process. Refer to Appendices 2&3 pg.24-25 for information about the Reschedule/Redemption processes.

Presentation of SATs Applies to Design and Technology, Computing, Media, Studio Arts and Visual Communication. Students will be provided with a clear outline of requirements for each SAT, together with progressive authentication dates as decided by the teacher. Students must remain organised and adhere to the set timeline, including presenting your work a minimum of three times to your teacher during the development of the SAT for authentication and ongoing assessment. Presentation of SATs (Student Instructions):

Put your official VCAA candidate number on the top of the right hand corner of the first page of your SAT (you may wish to do this on every page of the SAT for security)

Clearly number each page

Write the word length at the end, if applicable

Upload photos or a copy of your SAT and it’s progress as directed to the relevant Compass Learning Task

Where appropriate, place the completed SAT in a clear plastic envelope for protection

Ensure that the SAT is entirely legible, if handwritten

It may be wise to write on every second line, or Word Process the SAT (be aware of the advice on computer use in the Appendices). Only write on one side of each page, to ensure ease of reading, unless advised otherwise by the class teacher.

Promotions Policy Emerald Secondary College has high expectations for student performance and achievement. Students are promoted to the next year level and provided with a program that meets their individual pathways; careers aspirations and that provides them the best opportunity to experience success. Students are required to have demonstrated a capacity for such future success through their achievement in the previous learning.

Year 11 promotion to 12 Year 11 VCE students study a total of 12 Units over the year. To have access to a full Year 12 course a student must:

satisfactorily complete a minimum of eight 1/2 Units including one English

meet the 90% VCE % attendance requirement Year 11 VCAL students progressing to Year 12 VCAL must:

have met the requirements of Intermediate VCAL

meet the 90% VCE % attendance requirement

or if moving from VCE to VCAL have satisfied the above VCE requirements (unless the Senior School Advisory Panel deems otherwise on a conditional basis)

Year 10 promotion to Year 11 Year 10 students study a total of 12 Units over the year. English, Maths, Japanese, VCE and VET subjects are counted as two Units. Year 10 ‘Satisfactory Semester Result’ and automatic promotion into Year 11 ‘Satisfactory Semester Result’ in a minimum of 10 Units ‘Satisfactory Semester Result’ in both English Units



‘Satisfactory Semester Result’ in both Mathematics Units ‘Satisfactory Semester Result’ in 7-9 Units - Course Options

Year 10 & 11 combined course

Alternative pathways and settings available

Restricted VCE course may be offered

‘Satisfactory Semester Result’ in 6 Units or less – Course/Pathway Options

Year 10 Repeat

Combined Year 10 & 11 course

Alternative pathways and settings available

Acceleration Studies Emerald Secondary College has high expectations for student performance and achievement. To maximise VCE performance, students are encouraged to accelerate (S.E.A.L and mainstream) within a study, however academic benchmarks must be met to ensure student capacity to cope with the additional challenge and to ensure the likelihood of success. Acceleration would normally commence in Year 10 within a Year 11 VCE study. Acceleration within 1 Study

‘Satisfactory Semester Result’ in all Year 9 subjects

‘At Standard’ in English

A ‘B’ end of semester average CAT result or higher, within the Year 9 subject most aligned to the Year 11 VCE subject students wish to accelerate

Acceleration within 2 Studies

‘Satisfactory Semester Result’ in all Year 9 subjects

A ‘B’ end of semester average CAT result or higher, within the Year 9 subject most aligned to the Year 11 VCE subjects students wish to accelerate

A ‘B’ end of semester average CAT result or higher, within English/Enrichment English Continuing to Accelerate Students are required to apply to Continue to Accelerate within a study each year. Acceleration is not automatic and is determined each year based on a student’s overall academic performance. To be permitted to ‘Continue to Accelerate’, students must have met VCE Attendance requirements, and passed all SACs and exams at least to a Medium standard.

Course Load Year 11 Students in Year 11 are required to take six VCE subjects or their equivalent (such as five VCE subjects and a VETis course). Students may be permitted to undertake a reduced course load if one or more of the following conditions are met below: Year 12 Students in Year 12 are required to take five subjects or their equivalent (such as four VCE subjects and a VETis course). Students may take four subjects if one or more of the following conditions are met: Course Load Conditions

there is significant medical or environmental conditions that makes five subjects onerous. Documentation from the most relevant supporting specialist professional is required for consideration i.e. for mental health related conditions, a letter from a psychologist or psychiatrist rather than a General Practitioner is required.

the student has taken two Unit 3/4 sequences previously and earned a Study Score of at least 35 scaled for both studies.

the student is undertaking a 3 year VCE and will not qualify for the VCE in a 2 year period



*Please note that in 2020, all Year 12 students will be required to be enrolled in 5 VCE studies or the equivalent. This may involve picking up a new study, repeating a previously completed study or enrolling in a University Enrichment study. A reduced course load due to academic performance will no longer be permitted.

Distance Education

Emerald Secondary College offers a broad range of VCE study options in all learning areas. Although select students may be eligible to undertake a VCE study with Distance Education Centre Victoria (DECV), research and past student performance indicates that students are often less successful in studies completed without ongoing contact with a teacher and peers. Emerald Secondary College may allow a student to undertake a VCE study with Distance Education Centre Victoria if all of the following conditions are met:

The have passed all Year 10 / Year 11 English units

The student has an Organisation Grade Point average of 4 on their Progress Reports

The subject is offered at ESC but clashes with a another study in their pathway plan

There is a teacher at the College that can support the student with their learning

During course selection all students are required to select a full course load at the College

DECV applications will only be accepted after courses are published

Following confirmation of enrolment in DECV, students will be removed from a study at the College

Unscored VCE All VCE students at Emerald Secondary College enrol in the VCE with the understanding that they will be required to undertake exams for each Unit 3 / 4 sequence. The Senior School Advisory Panel may identify a very small number of students prior to the end of Term 3 each year and offer them the opportunity to undertake an ‘Unscored VCE’. This offer will be made after careful consideration of many different factors that have/are impacting on the individual student. There are significant consequences of undertaking an Unscored VCE and as such the decision is one initiated by the College not the student or their family. The Senior School Leader, Assistant Principal for the Senior School and Careers/Pathways Leader, will guide prospective students and their families through this process.

Final Day for Course Changes Final date for Unit 3 & 4 course changes is Tuesday 5th February, 2018.

Final date for unit for Unit 1 course changes is Tuesday 5th February, 2018

Final date for Unit 2 course changes is Monday 3rd June, 2018

Final date for Year 10 Semester 2 course changes is Wednesday 27th June, 2018 Students wanting to change their subjects, must see their year level leaders and complete the Course Change Application form before the final dates above (please find this form in the Appendix 7 – pg. 28). Students will not be permitted to change their subjects after this date.



Study Information for Students Successful Study – What does it look like? Successful students have successful study habits. They may not all score an ATAR of 99, but work toward achieving their personal best. Ultimately, this means at the conclusion of their VCE students do not contemplate what could have been and have the lingering thought, “I wish I worked harder”. Successful students are able to make effective use of available time to maintain a balance between school, social and other commitments (work, sport, etc.). How to be successful in your Studies:

Attend all classes, help classes and holiday classes.

Be organised. Know what is due and complete it prior to this time.

Work consistently throughout each week, Term and Unit. Avoid cramming.

Know the difference between study and homework.

Commit to achieving your personal best.

Establish clear goals for each study session and the Unit, year.

Manage your time effectively.

Understand how you learn and utilise this within your study.

Get things done. Don’t wait for motivation to come. Homework versus Home Study Homework is completing outstanding work, and far too many students think that that is all that’s required at VCE level. Not even close! While for many this may have been sufficient at junior levels, during VCE you will need to study your work, to develop and consolidate your understanding of key knowledge and skills within each. This handbook contains support material to provide some ideas as to techniques that may be effective for your study practices. You should spend approximately 2hrs/week for each Unit 1/2 study, and around 3hrs a week for each Unit 3/4 study in homework and home study combined. For most students, this means 10 hours/week in Year 11 and 15 hours/week in Year 12.



Homework vs Study Homework

School work that is assigned to be done at home, often supporting new content introduced in class.

Homework prepares you for the next lesson

Study The devotion of time and attention to gaining

knowledge of, and mastering, an academic subject.

Study is continuous and on-going

Time per week – approx. 1 ½ hours per subject Time per week – minimum of 2 hours per subject Text questions

Worksheets

Pre-reading or re-reading

Glossaries

Topical past exam questions

Problem solving

Viewing online clips/PowerPoints

Chapter Summaries

Reviewing new and past content – text, articles, notes, sample responses

Summaries - Cornell Notes are great

Graphic organisers – tables, Venn diagrams, graphs….

Mind-Maps – helps bring together key knowledge from an Area of Study

Key Terminology – master the language to master the knowledge

Past Exams - shows how areas of study may be combined in questions (VCAA Website)

Examiners’ Reports – contains details of where marks are won and lost (VCAA Website)

Feedback from Teachers – complete past exam or sample questions, seek feedback, act on feedback

Each week that goes by that you do not devote time to STUDY is time that puts you further and further behind students that do, and it limits your capacity to achieve your best. Completing the HOMEWORK will help you meet your Coursework Requirements, but may mean that, across the year, you are under-achieving in your Assessment Requirements if you are not maintaining a consistent study routine.

Advantages of Study: • Remembering key knowledge

• Applying key knowledge in a range of ways

• Depth of understanding

• Clearer connections between areas of study

• Linking concepts together

• Mastering skills that will be assessed

• Asking clarifying questions

• Use and apply the language of the subject



Drive Your Own Learning It is your education and your pathway to your future. As such, it is important that you take an active rather than passive role in your learning and education. Don’t wait to be told what to learn, or how to learn it – look for opportunities in class to absorb all the information in your preferred way, and ignore the others that are into distractions. See your teachers as a facilitator or resource for your learning, not the only means to it. Look to be proactive having read ahead, use multiple sources or information and resources, consistently access the relevant VCAA Study Designs and be familiar with the expected/required Key Knowledge and Skills that you will be assessed on for each Learning Outcome. Remember – you’re in charge of your learning, so take and keep control. Use of Study Periods (Year 12 students only) Year 12 students are provided with 5 periods of Study a week during the timetable. It is the College’s expectation that students effectively make use of this time. Students are to sign in at the Senior School office at the beginning of study periods then undertake homework or study in either the Year 12 Common Room or more preferably, the Silent Study room in S7. This time allotment is a privilege, not a right. It is essential that all students take advantage of this time as an opportunity to help achieve their personal best within their studies.

VCAL Studies What is VCAL? The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) is a 'hands-on' senior secondary option for students in Years 10, 11 and 12. Like the VCE, the VCAL is a recognised senior secondary qualification. Unlike the VCE, which is widely used by students as a pathway to university, the VCAL focuses on 'hands-on learning'. Students who do the VCAL are more likely to be interested in going on to training at TAFE, undertaking an apprenticeship, or transitioning directly to the workforce after completing Year 12. Students undertaking their VCAL certificates cannot be awarded an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR). What are the Aims of VCAL? The VCAL aims to provide students with the skills, knowledge and attitudes to make informed choices about pathways to work and further education. The principles underpinning the VCAL are:

accredited pathways for secondary students

tailoring a program to suit students’ interests

personal development

development of work related and industry specific skills. These principles are within the context of applied learning. In the VCAL these principles are shown through:

the development of knowledge and employability skills that help prepare students for work and for participation in a broader society – family, community and life-long learning

the development of knowledge and skills that assists students to make informed vocational choices and facilitate pathways to further learning and employment.

What Must Students do to receive a VCAL Qualification? The VCAL is accredited at three levels: Foundation level At this level the focus is on basic and preparatory knowledge and employability skills. There is also a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy skills. Intermediate level At the Intermediate level the focus is on knowledge and employability skills development that leads to independent learning, confidence and a higher level of transferable skills.



Senior level At the Senior level the focus is on knowledge and employability skills that lead to a high level of interpersonal skills, independent action and achievement of tasks that require decision making and leadership. The demonstration of knowledge and skills that apply directly to the workplace or further training is also important. The three qualification levels cater for a range of students with different abilities and interests. They also provide a progression in the development of skills, knowledge and attributes. Although these are usually assigned to each of Years 10, 11 and 12, a student is able to complete a VCAL level outside of this (i.e. a Year 12 Student working toward Intermediate VCAL completion). A student is awarded a certificate when they gain credits for 10 units that fulfil the minimum requirements for their learning program. A credit is gained for successful completion of a unit of study. A unit of study can be:

one VCAL unit

one VCE unit

90 hours for VET modules or units of competence and/or Further Education (FE) modules. Each unit of study must be justified against the purpose statement for one of the four VCAL curriculum strands. A student’s VCAL learning program must include:

• a minimum of two VCAL units • at least one literacy unit* • at least one numeracy unit • at least one unit from the Industry Specific Skills strand (at the Intermediate and Senior levels this must

include a unit of study from a VET qualification) • at least one unit from the Work Related Skills strand • at least one unit from the Personal Development Skills strand • at least six credits at the level or above, of which one must be literacy and one VCAL Personal Development

Skills unit. *If a student is enrolled in a VCAL literacy unit to fulfil the Literacy Skills strand requirement, the student must complete the VCAL Literacy – Reading and Writing unit at the certificate award level.

VCAL Attendance Senior school students are expected to:

Attend all timetabled classes, excursions, assemblies, P.A.S.E, etc.

Be punctual to all classes

Have a minimum Compass ‘VCE%’ (School Approved) attendance of 90% attendance for each semester for each curriculum strand

VCAL students should monitor their attendance using Compass, regularly checking their VCE% Attendance (School Approved Attendance). If a student has a VCE% attendance below 90% for any subject, they will be at risk of not successfully gaining their VCAL certificate.

All absences need to be approved by the College as there is a VCAA requirement of attendance for teachers to validate student work. The following absences will be approved and not be considered as part of the 90% attendance requirement:

Illness - a medical certificate is required

Bereavement – A parental note will be accepted

Other Educational Activity (e.g. if you are on an excursion for a distance education unit/ excursion/ sitting an exam etc.) – you must notify the Senior School



Other – if there are other valid reasons, these will need to be discussed with the Senior School Leader or relevant Year Level Coordinator before the absence (if possible) or as soon as possible.

Family holidays, part time work, license tests and other similar reasons for absence are not approved absences.

The College expects teachers to monitor VCAL student attendance closely and alert students, families and the Senior School of attendance concerns.

Assessment of VCAL To successfully complete the VCAL at the award level, students must:

• Enrol in a minimum of two VCAL units for each of the 4 streams: Literacy and Numeracy Skills; Industry Specific Skills; Work-Related Skills; Personal Development Skills

• Achieve a score of ‘Competent’ at (or above) the award sought (Foundation, Intermediate or Senior) • Achieve a total of 10 credits that fulfil the minimum requirements • Be enrolled in and successfully complete a VET subject • Undertake Structured Workplace Learning • Attend and participate in all VCAL classes • Maintain a folio of evidence of their work

VCAL Assessment Explained Satisfactory:

The Learning Outcome was demonstrated. The student has displayed the requirements of each Element demonstrating the required understanding of the knowledge/skills required at this level.

A ‘Grade’ is also awarded on the Compass Learning Task to indicate to the student and family, the quality of the work completed.

Not Yet Satisfactory:

NYC - Incomplete Not all Elements of the Learning Outcome are completed and/or quality of content is below expected level. Evidence must be re-submitted. Not Satisfactory:

N - Fail Student has not met the minimum requirements to satisfy the Learning Outcome.

VCAL Redemption Process The College has a process for VCAL Redemption. This relates to both academic and attendance redemption. Please see Appendix 4 – pg. 26 for details of this process.

VCAL Curriculum Strands Each VCAL award level contains four curriculum strands:

Literacy and Numeracy Skills

Personal Development Skills

Industry Specific Skills

Work Related Skills To ensure coherence in designing a VCAL learning program, selected curriculum components must closely align with the purpose statement of the appropriate curriculum strand. Refer also to VCAL information sheets provided by the VCAA. Literacy Skills purpose statement The purpose of literacy curriculum selected for this strand is to enable the development of skills, knowledge and attitudes in literacy that allow progression in the main social contexts of family, employment, further learning and citizenship.



Literacy skills corresponding to these social contexts include literacy for self-expression, practical purposes, knowledge and public debate. Literacy includes reading, writing and oral communication skills. Numeracy Skills purpose statement Numeracy is the ability to use mathematical skills in order to carry out purposes and functions within society related to designing, measuring, constructing, using graphical information, money, time and travel, and the underpinning skills and knowledge for further study in mathematics or related fields. Curriculum selected for numeracy in this strand should develop skills to facilitate the practical application of mathematics at home, work and in the community. Personal Development Skills purpose statement The purpose of the Personal Development Skills Strand is to develop knowledge, skills and attributes that lead towards:

• the development of self • social responsibility • building community • civic and civil responsibility, for example through volunteering and working for the benefit of others • improved self-confidence and self-esteem • valuing civic participation in a democratic society

Industry Specific Skills purpose statement The purpose of the Industry Specific Skills Strand is to enable the development of skills, knowledge and attitudes related to one or more vocational contexts in preparation for progression to further learning or employment. While specific VET units can be curriculum components of this strand, the learning program should focus on vocational contexts in order for learners to make informed choices as to the pathway options available to them through the VCE, VCAL, VET and FE and employment. Work Related Skills purpose statement The purpose of the Work Related Skills Strand is to develop employability skills, knowledge and attitudes valued within community and work environments as a preparation for employment. The development of employability skills within this strand provides learners with a capacity to consider and choose from a range of pathways. Work related skills include skills that align with the employability skills. The employability skills are:

• communication • team work • problem solving • technology • initiative and enterprise • planning and organising • self-management • learning

Employability skills are those that are valued by employers. Work Related Skills Units The VCAL Work Related Skills units have been designed to enable locally developed non-accredited curriculum to contribute to the VCAL qualification. In the Work Related Skills Strand, achieving VCAL unit learning outcomes and meeting the purpose statement of the strand may involve programs that incorporate part-time work, structured workplace learning programs, School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships and on the job learning. It should be noted that completing a structured work placement is not sufficient for a student to achieve an ‘S’ for a VCAL Work Related Skills unit.



Structured Work Placement • Structured Work Placement is an essential part of Vocational Education and Training (VET). Young people

who do a VET program need to practise their skills to complete their qualification. For some VET programs a Structured Work Placement is compulsory

• It is a requirement of the VCAL Work Related Skills unit that students have a Structured Work Placement organised for one day a week during each school term. Ideally they should complete a maximum of 40 days in one year. Students will also be required to maintain a signed log book/journal officially logging their work placement hours. This will contribute to their final assessment.

• It is a Department of Education and Training legal requirement that students undertaking Structured Workplace Learning as part of a VET program within VCE or VCAL must be undertaking or have completed the OH & S training unit of competency within their specific VET program

• All Structured Workplace Learning must be in the same industry as the VET program. Structured Workplace Learning hours must be between 6:00am and 11:00pm with a minimum payment of $5.00 per day

• Where a student is undertaking Structured Workplace Learning which is not part of a VET program or Structured Work Placement which is not related to their VET program within VCAL, the student must complete Work Related Skills Unit 1 Safe @ Work assessments (General & Specific) – to be updated every 12 months

• All Building and Construction/Construction placements e.g. Plumbing students must complete Construction Work Safe Card (White Card) prior to attending any building site

Vocational Education and Training (VET) • VET is a compulsory part of the VCAL Pathway, Intermediate and Senior levels. At Emerald Secondary College

a student is required to commit to undertaking a full year of their selected VET study. The VET study is able to be changed at the end of the academic year ready to commence a different VET commitment should the student choose the following year.

• Most students, who focus on one VET certificate, will complete the certificate at either level 2 or 3. • Every 90 hours of completed VET units, will contribute 1 credit towards the VCAL. On average, most students

acquire 2 credits within one year. • All providers will report attendance to the school. Any concerns will be followed up with parent contact by

the school’s VCAL/VET coordinator. • VET reports will be sent either to the student’s home address and/or the school. Students will receive a mid-

year and end of year report.

VET Studies VET or Vocational Education and Training studies are now an important option for many students completing their VCE. VET Studies usually occur at other locations for Emerald Secondary students. VET training courses are module based, and students work through the modules of competence. Each module must be signed off by your assessor once the student can exhibit competence with the skills involved in the module. Students will get a statement each semester indicating the modules achieved. When the amounts of modules are completed sufficiently, the VCAA will credit the student with a VCE Unit. Whatever modules are completed will be awarded to the student and are nationally recognised. These may in the future provide credit to further studies at TAFE level. VET scores provide a credit towards a student’s ATAR either by accruing an additional 10%, or by being graded themselves and becoming part of the normal ATAR calculation if an end of year VCAA examination is an option. Normal school policies apply to VET students as far as attendance; expectations of adherence to school rules, authentication and enrolment are concerned. Some VET courses are scored and at 3 & 4 level student can elect to sit an exam which contributes to an ATAR score. All students who wish to sit the end of year Vet exam must also sit the GAT mid-year exam. VET studies involve additional costs. Please speak with the VCAL/VET Coordinator for specific information.



Appendices Appendix 1 – Satisfactory Completion of a Unit

I attend class 100% of the time

My absences are approved by the College

I complete all course work as set, including homework, and I get

feedback

I complete tasks and meet deadlines

My attendance for a subject is below 90% VCE Attendance on Compass

Have I demonstrated the outcomes?

I have passed the unit

I pass all Units and gain my VCE

I discuss an appeal with the Senior School Leader

Redemption within 1 weeks. Arrange with Senior School ASAP

Did I achieve the outcomes?

I fail the Unit

Can I appeal the decision?

I continue to attend, but do private study in timetabled class

NO

NO

YES

YES

Appeal unsuccessful



Appendix 2 – Process for VCE SAC Redemption and Reschedule

Process for VCE Redemption and Reschedule

1. It is the student’s responsibility to meet the requirements for attending all assessment tasks 2. The student must contact the College on the day of assessment, prior if possible 3. Subject Teacher to complete Amber Chronicle entry informing parents of missed SAC, need for

Medical Certificate & 1 week deadline to reschedule/redeem. 4. On return, student MUST produce a MEDICAL CERTIFICATE (or other professional

documentation) and present it to the Year Level Coordinator/Senior School Leader

Redemption (If unapproved absence)

5. Student may not be permitted to complete the original task

6. Student will be offered a Redemption Task rescheduled after school for N to S but NO SCORE awarded

7. Task must be completed within 1 week of original date.

8. Teacher to Complete Reschedule / Redemption SAC Cover Sheet (white form) & include with task in ‘In-Tray’.

9. Student to see Senior Leader in Senior School Office to be placed in SAC Redemption Session Event on Compass. Text and email delivered to parent/guardian.

10. If student work is satisfactory the work will receive an S but the original score remains.

11. If the student work is not satisfactory the work will receive an N. No further redemption is offered and a Unit Result of N is given.

Reschedule (If approved absence, including documentation)


6. Teacher to Complete Reschedule Cover Sheet (white form) & include with task in ‘In-Tray’.

7. Student to see Senior Leader in Senior School Office to be placed in SAC Reschedule Session Event on Compass. Text and email delivered to parent/guardian.

Rescheduled SAC 8. Student MUST sit at the negotiated time

(after school on Tuesdays or Thursdays) 9. Failure to attend the Rescheduled Task will

incur an ‘N’ and a Redemption will be offered.

10. If the student receives an N after completing the Rescheduled Task the Redemption process applies.

If SAC, SAT or Coursework completed is not satisfactory, or submitted late

Not Satisfactory 1. The Redemption Process applies (not applicable to exams)



Student does not attend a SAC

Late Submission 1. If Late Submission is due to an approved

absence the Reschedule Process applies. The Senior School Leader or Assistant Principal must approve the absence. 2. If Late Submission is due to an

unapproved absence the Redemption Process applies.




Appendix 3 – Process for Year 10 CAT Redemption and Reschedule

Process for Year 10 CAT Redemption and Reschedule

1. It is the student’s responsibility to meet the requirements for attending all assessment tasks 2. The student must contact the College on the day of assessment, prior if possible 3. Subject Teacher to complete Amber Chronicle entry informing parents of missed CAT, need for

Medical Certificate & 1 week deadline to reschedule/redeem. 4. On return, student MUST produce a MEDICAL CERTIFICATE (or other professional documentation)

and present it to the Year Level Coordinator/Senior School Leader

Redemption (If unapproved absence)

5. Student will be offered a Redemption Task rescheduled after school for UG, E to S but NO SCORE awarded


7. Teacher to Complete Reschedule / Redemption CAT Cover Sheet (Yellow form) & include with task in ‘In-Tray’.



10. If the student work is not satisfactory the work will receive an NS, UG or E. No further redemption is offered.



6. Teacher to Complete CAT Reschedule Cover Sheet (Yellow form) & include with task in ‘In-Tray’.

7. Student to see Senior Leader in Senior School Office to be placed in CAT Reschedule Session Event on Compass. Text and email delivered to parent/guardian.

Rescheduled CAT 8. Student MUST sit at the negotiated time (after

school on Tuesdays or Thursdays) 9. Failure to attend the Rescheduled Task will

incur an ‘NS’ and a Redemption will be required.

10. If the student receives a UG or E after completing the Rescheduled Task the Redemption process applies.

If CAT or Coursework completed is not satisfactory, or submitted late

Not Satisfactory 1. The CAT Redemption Process applies

(not applicable to exams) 2. If student work is satisfactory the work will

receive an S but the original score remains. 3. If the student work is not satisfactory the

work will receive either a UG or E. No further redemption is offered.

Student does not attend a CAT

Late Submission 1. If Late Submission is due to an approved

absence the Reschedule Process applies. The Senior School Leader or Assistant Principal must approve the absence.

2. If Late Submission is due to an unapproved absence the Redemption Process applies.

3. If the student work is not satisfactory the work will receive a UG or E. No further redemption is offered.



Appendix 4 – Process for VCAL Redemption and Reschedule Process for VCAL Redemption and Reschedule

1. It is the student’s responsibility to meet the requirements for attending all assessment tasks/meeting deadlines

2. Subject Teacher to complete Amber Chronicle entry informing parents of missed CAT/deadline & 2 week deadline to reschedule/redeem.

Redemption 3. Student will be offered a Redemption Task

rescheduled after school to demonstrate Competence.

4. Task must be completed within 2 weeks of original date/deadline.

5. Teacher to Complete VCAL Reschedule / Redemption Cover Sheet (Blue form) & include with task in ‘In-Tray’.


7. If student work is satisfactory ‘Competence’ will be demonstrated.

8. If the student work is not satisfactory the student work will receive an N. A further redemption is offered. A maximum of 2 opportunities to redeem are allowed.



4. Teacher to Complete VCAL Reschedule Cover Sheet (Blue form) & include with task in ‘In-Tray’.

5. Student to see Senior Leader in Senior School Office to be placed in Reschedule Session Event on Compass. Text and email delivered to parent/guardian.

Rescheduled Session 6. Student MUST sit at the negotiated time

(after school on Tuesdays or Thursdays) 7. Failure to attend the Rescheduled Task will

incur an ‘N’ and a Redemption will be required.

8. If the student receives an ‘N’ after completing the Rescheduled Task the Redemption process applies.

VCAL – Attendance Redemption

1. The YLC and VCAL/VET Coordinator will monitor VCAL student attendance closely throughout each unit.

2. At the end of a Unit, should a VCAL student’s attendance be below the ‘School Approved’ 90% requirement (VCE% Attendance on Compass), a student will be award a ‘N’ for the unit.

3. This ‘N’ is provisional. The student may be offered an opportunity at the conclusion of the Academic School year to redeem their attendance by attending additional class time to make up the hourly requirement. Failure to do so will see the original ‘N’ result stand. Making up the required time will enable this aspect of the unit to be satisfied.

4. The VCAL/VET coordinator and/or YLC will communicate this in writing to students parents.

Student does not attend or meet a CAT/Outcome



Appendix 5 – Redemption Process – Student Appeal Form (Photocopy as required)

Redemption Result – Student Appeal Form Student to Complete

Name and Home Group of Student: ________________________________________________________ Name of Study: ________________________________________________________________________ I acknowledge that all information included is accurate and true. Student Signature: ____________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________________________________________

In the space provided below, please indicate any information that you think the Senior School Advisory Panel should take into consideration when considering this Appeal for a further Redemption opportunity. This may include information relating to particular career pathways requirements, medical/health issues, positive study/work/organisation habits that you have previously demonstrated, difficulties that have been faced, etc. Please attach any other documentation to this form that you wish to be considered.

Redemption Appeals will not be awarded for reasons including: there is insufficient evidence of personal difficulties or medical factors affecting SAC preparation, a student is behind in coursework, not seeking additional support/feedback from class teacher, or a student has not demonstrated proactive steps to achieve success in their studies.

Office Use Only Outcome of Redemption Appeal Successful Unsuccessful

Senior School Advisory Panel Comments:

Please submit completed form to the Senior School within 5 days of finding out of your initial redemption result. The Senior School Advisory Panel will meet to discuss this appeal and consider if a further redemption opportunity shall be provided or not. The Senior School Leader or Assistant Principal for the Senior School, will contact the student to inform them of the Appeal outcome. Date: _________________

Senior School Leader Signature: _________________________________________________________________

Assistant Principal Signature: ___________________________________________________________________



Appendix 6 – Notification of a Possible Breach of Authentication (Photocopy as required)

Notification of a Possible Breach of Authentication Name and Home Group of Student: ________________________________________________________ Name of Study: ________________________________________________________________________ Details and evidence of Breach:

Name of Teacher: ______________________________________________________

Signature: ____________________________________________________________

Date: _____________________

List of attachments:



Appendix 7 – Request to Change Studies

Senior School – Request to Change Studies

Date -

Student Name -

HG -

Subject/s From –

Subject/s To –

Reason for Subject Change Request – Student/Parent must consider that any subject change may impact the student’s ability to study particular subjects at ESC or tertiary courses in the future. Pre-requisite studies must be considered as a priority by the student prior to submitting this form.

Student Signature -

Parent Signature -

Pathways Leader Signature-

Request Approved (Office Use Only)

Yes No

Senior School Leader Signature - School to retain this completed form.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Senior School – Request to Change Studies

Date -

Student Name -

HG -

Subject/s From –

Subject/s To –

Request Approved (Office Use Only)

Yes No

Senior School Leader Signature - Student to be provided this section of the form following a decision regarding subject change request.



Appendix 8 – Special Provision - Application for Assessment Task Extension (Photocopy as required)

Application for Assessment Task Extension Student to Complete

Name and Home Group of Student: ________________________________________________________ Name of Study: ________________________________________________________________________ I acknowledge that all information included is accurate and true. Student Signature: ____________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________________________________________

Reason for Applying for Special Provision/Assessment Extension - Details and evidence to be included/attached:

Name of Study/Subject Teacher: ______________________________________________________

Teacher’s Comments

Senior School Leaders Signature: _________________________________________________________________

Date: _____________________



Appendix 9 – VCAL Program – Student Contract

VCAL Program: Student Contract • Yr. 12 students will attend school on Mondays and Tuesdays; Yr. 11 students on Mondays and Thursdays to

complete their school based course work. Year 10 students are required to attend each day except if they undertake an external VET subject. Students should attend school on that day until they have to leave to attend on time (e.g. attend period 1&2 and leave at recess)

• Non-school days are allocated for students to attend their VET program (usually a Wednesday) and a Structured Work Placement (SWL). A log book for SWL must be maintained for verification and assessment.

• Students who do not have a SWL must attend school. Formal classes will not run, however, during this time, students will be required to actively search for a placement. They can also use this time to catch up on class or VET work. However, primarily, they will be required to complete set tasks which will meet some of the SWP requirements. Students must be in full school uniform and adhere to normal school times and rules.

• Any absences from VET or SWP must be communicated to either the VET provider or employer and the school the morning of the absence or earlier where possible.

• 90% attendance (Compass VCE% - School Approved) is required to ensure a satisfactory completion of the VCAL certificate. This is based on a 5 day a week program. Therefore, VET, SWL or attendance at school if a student does not have a SWL is included.

• The VCAL Levy must be paid in full at the time of enrolment. • All VET Materials fees must be paid in full during February and/or as outlined on the VET application form. • Students are expected to wear full college uniform with pride when they are at school and at any out of

school activities. Any excessive make-up, hairstyles or piercings are not permitted at school, VET, TAFE or Structured Work Placement

• Students need to be self-motivated and organised in order to complete school based course work and meet all learning outcomes and assessment requirements by due dates. Failure to meet deadlines may result in a ‘Not Satisfactory’ result.

• Students must attend required redemption sessions to complete any outstanding school based coursework • Students must maintain satisfactory results in all subjects in order to meet the certificate requirements of the

VCAL. A total of 10 credits from all strands is the minimum requirement • Students must adhere to the school rules and classroom management processes • Successful VCAL students usually have a clear vocational goal. VCAL should not be viewed as an easy option • Students must attempt all tasks and attend all incursions and excursions

- Students must come to class ready to learn with the correct equipment - Students must have a working computer

Should any of the above requirements not be met, your position in the VCAL program will be reviewed via a meeting involving yourself, a parent/guardian, the VCAL/VET Coordinator and an Assistant Principal. Possible outcomes may include:

1. Attending redemption 2. Placed on an individual behaviour plan/contract 3. Withdrawal from the program until such time it is deemed appropriate to return 4. Withdrawal from the program and enrolment in an alternative program 5. Repeating the VCAL if there is a significant probability of success 6. Have a discussion regarding alternative pathways

I have read and understood the above requirements of the VCAL program. Parent Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: _____________

Student Signature: __________________________________________ Date: _____________

VCAL/VET Coordinator: ______________________________________ Date: _____________

Assistant Principal: __________________________________________ Date: _____________



Please return this to your VCAL/VET Coordinator by Friday 10th February, 2018. Appendix 10 – VCAL Media Consent Form

VCAL Media Consent Form Dear Parents/Guardians, Each school year, we seek parental permission for a number of school-based activities. By signing the consent form below, you are giving permission to:

Mention your child's achievements in our school newsletter and website. Their full name and VCAL class may also be mentioned

Post your child's schoolwork in our school's newsletter and website. Your child's full name and VCAL class may be referred to

Use photos of your child in our school's newsletter and in digital presentations and promotional materials. Photos will be taken of groups of students or may also be taken of your child undertaking a particular activity or excursion

Provide your contact to your child’s chosen VET course provider, so they may contact you, if the need arises

Have your child videotaped or photographed by a teacher, volunteer or student teacher as part of the learning program. These photos and videotapes may be used within the school

Have your child videotaped, photographed and/or interviewed for media stories throughout the school year. The images and/or audio may be used in local, national or international news stories about school programs, initiatives, awards and/or events. Your child's full name and photograph may accompany the story

Allow your child to watch a movie/documentary, Youtube clip or any form of media directly linked to a VCAL outcome, which is being presented for educational purposes that may be rated for mature audiences or M.

If there are items you do not consent to, please cross them off. This consent will be effective during the current school year. Consent may be revoked at any time by contacting the school office. Please complete and return the permission form to your child's teacher. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school.

Authorisation and Release

I hereby consent to the initiatives described in the letter above. I understand this consent will be effective during the current school year. I am the Parent/Guardian of: _______________________________________________ (Student Name) and I consent to this authorisation and release. Parent/Guardian Name: __________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ________________________________________ Date: ______________

Please return this to your VCAL/VET Coordinator by Friday 10th February, 2018.



Appendix 11 – Driving to School Application

Students Driving to School Application

Any student that holds a valid Victorian licence who intends to drive to school, both on a regular basis or occasionally, must comply with the school policy and is required to complete the Parent Permission and Student Agreement Form. This can be found (with a parent letter) in the Senior School Student Handbook or can be requested from the Senior School Office. All requirements and expectations outlined enable the College to maintain a duty of care for school community members. This includes to closely monitor student use of motor vehicles on the school premises, minimise potential for risk of injury or incident related to the use of student motor vehicles and to maximise adherence to the Victorian road rules/laws.

Requirements for Students Driving Cars to School at Emerald Secondary College:

Students are required to adhere to all road rules and drive in a safe and responsible manner, including

adhering to all College signage such as speed limits on school grounds.

Students are only to use their car for travelling to and from school. Students are not permitted under any

circumstances to drive from the school grounds during the day.

Student licence details and car make and registration must be recorded with the school.

Students may only park in the designated student parking area and must display the College issued Parking

Permit.

Students are not permitted to carry other students as passengers to and from school without the written

permission of their parent/guardian and the passenger’s parent/guardian. The school has a rule that, no more

than one peer aged passenger should travel with the driver, in line with Graduated Licensing System (GLS)

peer passenger restrictions. The GLS condition requires all P1 (Red Plates) drivers to carry no more than one

peer passengers (aged 16-22 years). Peers do not include siblings. This condition does not apply when a fully

licensed driver is sitting in the front passenger seat.

Students are required to notify the school of any passenger who may be travelling with them to and from

school.

Student drivers, a parent/guardian and, if relevant, the parent/guardian of any passenger, must sign the

Parent permission and Student Agreement Form.

Sanctions will apply where students fail to meet these obligations. These include but are not limited to the

temporary or permanent removal of driving/parking privileges, suspension, After School Detention and

parent meetings.

Any unsafe driving behaviour or breaches of road rules will be reported to the police.



Emerald Secondary College 425 Belgrave-Gembrook Road PO Box 264

ABN 13 574 509 615 Emerald Vic 3782

Email: [email protected] Tel: 5968-5388 www.emeraldsc.vic.edu.au Fax: 5968-5322

1st February, 2018

Dear Parent/Guardian, A number of our senior school students are driving to or intend to drive to school this year and some have indicated that they intend to carry another student as a passenger. Your son/daughter has indicated that he/she intends to drive to school and/or will be a passenger of another student who is driving to school. Despite the fact that most young drivers try to be careful, safety conscious and considerate when driving, research clearly shows that they are at a higher risk of having a serious crash than older, more experienced drivers. The presence of young passengers also greatly increases the risk for teenage drivers and, the more passengers, the greater the risk. It is important that all students and their parents/guardians are aware of these risks and the type of behaviour that Emerald Secondary College expects from student drivers. Copies of the school policy on student drivers and the Parent Permission and Student Agreement Form are attached. The policy outlines the school’s expectations and provides information regarding the transport of passengers. Of particular note is that student drivers are not permitted to carry other students as passengers to and from school without the written permission of their parent/guardian and the passenger’s parent/guardian. Under the Graduated Licensing System, no more than one peer aged passenger (aged 16-22 years) is permitted to travel with the driver, unless the passengers are siblings of the driver. This condition does not apply when a fully licensed driver is sitting in the front passenger seat. This is based on research that shows that young drivers carrying several passengers are more likely to engage in risk taking behaviour. For more information, go to: www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/driver-safety/young-and-new-drivers/victorias-graduatedlicensing-system To ensure that all involved are aware of these requirements, student drivers and a parent/guardian and, where appropriate, a parent/guardian of any passengers, are required to sign a Parent Permission and Student Agreement Form. The form must be signed and returned prior to students using the designated parking area. Students are also required to display the Emerald Secondary College Parking Permit when parked on the school premises. These requirements are intended to ensure the welfare and safety of students at our school and the local community. Yours sincerely,

Jodie Doble Principal

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.emeraldsc.vic.edu.au/

http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/driver-safety/young-and-new-drivers/victorias-graduatedlicensing-system

http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/driver-safety/young-and-new-drivers/victorias-graduatedlicensing-system



Students driving cars to school: Parent Permission and Student

Agreement Form

This form must be completed by any student who intends to drive to school either occasionally or regularly

Student Name

Car Make/Model

Colour Registration Number

Note: If the student intends to drive any car other than the one registered on this form, it must also be registered

with the school.

Parent Permission

I give permission for __________________________________________ (HG_____________) to drive to school and

take the passenger indicated on this form. I am aware of Victoria’s Graduated Licensing System conditions and the

school requirements regarding students driving to school.

Signature of Parent/Guardian: ______________________________Date:__________

Parent/Guardian of Passenger

I give permission for _____________________________________ (HG_____________) to be driven to and from

school by ____________________________________. I am aware of Victoria’s Graduated Licensing System

conditions and the school requirements regarding students driving to school.

Signature of Parent/Guardian: ______________________________Date:____________

Student

I agree to adhere to Victoria’s Graduated Licensing System conditions and the requirements of Emerald Secondary

College regarding students driving a car to school.

Signature of Student: ____________________________________Date:__________

*Note: A photocopy of the student’s driver licence must be attached to this form.

School Approval

Approved by:

Signature:

Date:

emerald secondary college access to excellence

Documents