a parent’s guide to victorian government schools · 2016-03-14 · a parent’s guide to...

A Parent’s Guide to Victorian Government Schools

Published by Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Melbourne

Published August 2009

© State of Victoria 2009

The copyright in this document is owned by the State of Victoria. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968, NEALS (see below) or with permission.

An educational institution situated in Australia which is not conducted for profit, or a body responsible for administering such an institution, may copy and communicate

the materials, other than third-party materials, for the educational purposes of the institution.

Authorised by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, 2 Treasury Place, East Melbourne, Victoria 3002. Also published on http://www.education.vic.gov.au

School term dates

2009

Term 1 2 February – 3 April

Term 2 20 April – 26 June

Term 3 13 July – 18 September

Term 4 5 October – 18 December

2010

Term 1 1 February – 26 March

Term 2 12 April – 25 June


Term 4 4 October – 17 December

2011

Term 1 1 February – 8 April

Term 2 26 April – 1 July


Term 4 10 October –22 December

1A Parent’s Guide to Victorian Government Schools

Victoria is delivering a world class education for our students, with a high performing government school system giving every child the opportunity to shine.

With new facilities, and excellent principals and teachers adopting 21st century teaching techniques, we’re in the business of transforming education.

In Victorian government schools you will find a commitment to improving literacy and numeracy, to greater scientific and mathematical excellence, to artistic sophistication, and to providing our young people with the skills they need to go on to further education or employment.

I believe that it is crucial for parents to be involved in their child’s education. When this occurs, children are more likely to do better in school, be better behaved, have more positive attitudes toward school, and grow up to be more successful in life. That’s why Victorian government schools are working closely with parents in providing unbiased, factual information regarding their child’s education, and putting in place individual support to meet the needs of every child.

The 21st century requires schools to generate knowledge, not just deliver information. Schools that were once buildings are now centres connecting teachers, students and the community to the wealth of knowledge that exists in the world. Teachers, who were providers of information, are now coaches of learning, helping students turn information into knowledge and knowledge into wisdom.

Victorian government schools are being equipped with the latest technology, flexible learning spaces, and support for teachers to ensure that the quality of teaching and facilities all contribute to the engagement and success of our students across the state. There is no better time to discover what a Victorian government school can deliver for your child.

Hon John Brumby MP Premier of Victoria

MeSSage froM THe PreMIer

2 A Parent’s Guide to Victorian Government Schools


exciting things are happening in Victorian schools as we continue building our world-class education system to guarantee our state’s future and to provide every child, every opportunity to shine. We are transforming education with our Blueprint for Education and Early Childhood Development spelling out a new vision for Victorian education and early childhood development.

We are also in the middle of the biggest school construction program in our state’s history, which will rebuild, renovate or extend every school across Victoria. This is about investing for the future and ensuring all students get modern buildings and a 21st century education so they are equipped with the skills for 21st century jobs. In addition to Victoria’s initiatives, we also have the australian government’s economic Stimulus Plan injecting unprecedented funding for rebuilding and refurbishment. This Building the education revolution funding, combined with our own Victorian Schools Plan, has allowed us to establish an integrated strategy that provides great opportunities for every single school.

We are not only transforming the physical fabric of our schools. We are changing the way education is delivered to ensure that all students have access to an excellent education. That means ensuring high quality principals and teachers are delivering excellent results on a range of measures, not just academic achievements.

I want to provide the best and most comprehensive data available on student and school performance to improve student outcomes, and help the community to understand the performance of schools.

I am proud of the direction we are taking in education here in Victoria as we work to support schools, principals, teachers and parents implement our plan. The best school systems in the world ensure no child is left behind. Together, we can achieve our vision that all young Victorians thrive, learn, grow and shine – enjoy productive, rewarding and fulfilling lives – and make a positive contribution to their local and global communities.

Hon Bronwyn Pike MP Minister for education

MeSSage froM THe MInISTer


This booklet gives you information about some of the positive changes happening in education in Victoria.

It also provides handy hints and tips about your child’s school journey – including what to consider when choosing a school, how to help your child start primary and secondary school with a positive attitude and, when they are older, things to consider when making choices for their future.

There is also advice on what additional support is available to you and your family and how you can stay informed and involved.

VIcTorIan goVernMenT ScHoolS – gIVIng eVery cHIld eVery oPPorTunITy To SHIne

Victoria is proud of its schools and of the many exciting things that are happening in and around them.

i for information about Victorian government schools:

• see www.education.vic.gov.au

• call 1800 809 834 (freecall) to speak to the department of education and early childhood development Information and referral Service

• email [email protected]


THe 21ST cenTury ScHool

In the past, schools were buildings; today they are centres connecting teachers, students and the community to the wealth of knowledge that exists in the world.

To help ensure our teaching and learning meets the needs of the 21st century, every Victorian government school is being rebuilt, extended or renovated – the largest school building program in Victoria’s history.

driven by new practices in teaching and learning that build on the recognition of the powerful impact that school design has on how well students do at school, we are creating flexible learning spaces designed to suit the individual needs of every student.

new buildings are also being designed and built to be community assets. This means that, outside of school hours, the entire community can benefit from the shared use of school sporting facilities, meeting rooms, halls, stadiums, libraries and other buildings.

There are also an increasing number of early childhood services being co-located with schools, making it easier for parents and helping to improve transition to school.

grants are also being provided to every Victorian government school to maintain and refresh their information and computer technology.

The 21st century requires schools to generate knowledge, not just deliver information.


Modern technology, preparing students for the real world


connections to up-to-date information from around the world

Teams of skilled teachers to guide students to success


THe 21ST cenTury TeacHer

Victoria has made a significant investment in its education workforce, recognising that the quality of teachers and school leaders has the greatest impact on student learning outcomes.

completion of initial teacher training is the first step in becoming a skilled teacher and we are working closely with tertiary institutions to ensure today’s teaching graduates are equipped for our society’s changing educational needs.

Starting in 2010, Victoria will lead the nation by putting some of the brightest university graduates in our classrooms. Teach for Australia recruits high-achieving graduates from a range of professional studies and trains them to work as teachers for two years before they join their corporate employer. Similar international programs have been successful with many graduates

continuing teaching after their two years and others maintaining strong and productive links with schools.

Victoria continues to direct significant investment to developing resources to assist all teachers build their knowledge and improve their classroom practice. This includes employing 200 experienced teaching and learning coaches in the areas of literacy, numeracy and information technology.

Victoria’s teacher leadership programs are internationally recognised as world’s best. This teacher leadership scheme will be further enhanced by the opening in 2010 of the Bastow Institute of educational leadership that will offer professional development for principals and teachers.

Teachers are our most vital resource, helping students turn information into knowledge and knowledge into wisdom.


flexible learning environments which change to suit the activity

Teaching in teams where students benefit from a range of support and expertise


open spaces connecting students, teachers and classrooms

Quiet learning spaces for personalised learning


Transparent and accurate data is essential for parents to understand and monitor the performance of both their child and their school.

Victoria has a long-term plan for education through its Blueprint for Education and Early Childhood Development. already we are seeing the benefits of the plan though improved information to parents and carers.

For the first time ever in Australia, the public can go to a single website – Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) State Register – and find easy-to-understand information about all schools in Victoria, including a range of performance measures, in the first instance through school annual reports.

for more information see Victorian Registration and Qualifications authority (VrQa) State register at www.vrqa.vic.gov.au

commencing this year, parents will also have an annual performance summary of their child’s school that will show not only how students are progressing but also the contribution the school is making to assist students with their progress.

using sophisticated, but easy-to-understand measures, the information will take into account the context of the school, the challenges it faces and the value it is adding to improving student progress.

IMProVed InforMaTIon for ParenTS and carerS

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cHooSIng a ScHool for your cHIld

Victorian government schools provide young people with opportunities, choice, cultural diversity, life skills and access to high-quality resources and programs.

There is a variety of Victorian government schools for you and your child to consider. These include small and large schools, primary schools, secondary schools, Prep to year 12 schools, specialist schools for children with disabilities, and selective entry schools for academically advanced students in years 9 to 12.

Making decisions about your child’s education can be daunting, so give yourself time to think about what matters most for you and your child. contact potential schools early to allow time to visit them and to talk to principals, teachers and other parents.

WHen cHooSIng a ScHool:

• know your child’s needs and interests

• visit and tour schools

• attend parent information sessions and open days

• consider the distance of the school from your home, work or carers, and how your child will travel to and from school

• find out what subjects are offered

• check if there are specialty programs to meet your child’s needs and interests

• review the facilities offered by the school – are you comfortable with the ‘feel’ of the school

• find out what additional support is available at the school

• understand school policies on homework, discipline and uniforms

• read the school’s annual report to community

• ask about how you can get involved.

for more information about Victorian government schools, see:

• find a school at www.education.vic.gov.au/findaservice for a list of all the schools in your area and their contact details

• State register at www.vrqa.vic.gov.au for detailed information on each school’s annual performance

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STarTIng your cHIld’S ScHool Journey

Transition activities during the year before school may include:

• information nights and welcome to school events

• meeting with children and families from school

• learning activities at kindergarten to prepare children for school

• early childhood educators and teachers meeting to plan your child’s continued learning.

commencing 2010, parents of children starting primary school and their school will receive a Transition learning and development Statement. This statement will be developed by your child’s early years educator and summarise your child’s needs, strengths and interests and help their school plan individual support programs.

If your child has additional needs, transition planning will take these needs into account.

for more information see www.education.vic.gov.au/earlychildhood

Primary school

Starting school is a major milestone for you and your child. Much can be done to make the move as smooth and positive as possible. This is important because your child’s early experiences of school can affect their later learning.

Transition to school is generally more successful when there are good relationships between children, families, early years’ educators and school staff. It is helpful to start building these relationships in the year before your child starts school.

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THe Journey conTInueS

Secondary school

Moving from year 6 to year 7 is the next stage in your child’s education.

While it’s an exciting time, from day one your child will experience many changes. for example, there are more teachers, new surroundings, and a different approach to timetabling.

With the help of family and school staff, students usually adapt quickly to their new situation.

Transition activities include:

• primary and secondary schools working together

• secondary students visiting their former primary school to talk about their experiences

• a buddy system where children new to the school are paired up with an older student already at the school. These older students can answer questions and help the new students adjust to secondary school life

• secondary school teachers visiting primary schools to talk about what to expect at secondary school

• an orientation day (all Victorian government secondary schools hold this orientation day on the same day, usually the second Tuesday of december each year).

HoW To HelP your cHIld STarT PrIMary or Seconday ScHool on a PoSITIVe noTe• be interested and enthusiastic

• attend parent information sessions

• ensure travel arrangements to and from school are organised

• organise your child’s uniform well before the first day of school

• learn about school routines and timetables

• practise organisational skills with your child

• keep the lines of communication open with your child

• have a back-up plan in case your child misses their transport

• discuss emergency and safety issues with your child

• put your child’s name on all personal items, such as clothes, calculators and books.


Victorian early years learning and development framework

By the time your child starts school, they have already developed many language, and thinking skills; they have learned to build and maintain relationships; and have established the foundations of their physical, social and emotional characteristics.

The Victorian early years learning and development framework builds continuity from birth through the first years of school. The framework describes the key knowledge and skills that children from birth to eight years should know and be able to do, and is directly linked to the Victorian school curriculum.

Victorian essential learning Standards

The Victorian essential learning Standards (VelS) outlines the curriculum for all students from Prep to year 10 in Victorian schools. The VelS describe what students are expected to know and be able to do at different stages of learning.

The VelS were developed after national and international research and extensive consultation with education groups and the wider community. They are set

at a challenging level, not minimum competence, to suit the age and developmental stages of students. This helps to ensure that students are stretched to learn, rather than doing work they find easy.

The VelS focus on three main areas that are important to the development of a well-rounded and confident young person.

They are:

• Discipline-based learning knowledge and understanding from the key subjects of english, Science, Mathematics, Humanities, languages and The arts

learnIng aT ScHool

Victorian government schools are supported by a system that sets statewide standards in education. at the same time, schools are flexible in tailoring programs to meet the needs of each and every student.


Physical education and sport

government schools promote the development of a healthy lifestyle by providing a supportive and active environment for physical education and sport. as well as increasing activity levels, physical education and sport help to develop a sense of fair play, self-confidence and the capacity for teamwork.

languages

given the cultural diversity of australian society and the value of knowing another language, including its potential to expand future career opportunities, Victorian government schools provide high-quality language education for all students.

for more information:• curriculum and VelS – contact

the Victorian curriculum and assessment authority on (03) 9651 4544 or 1800 134 197 or see www.vcaa.vic.edu.au

• languages other than english, see www.education.vic.gov.au/aboutschool/curriculum

• Physical, personal and social skills such as being active and healthy, developing self-confidence, managing personal learning and working with others. This area also explores the concept of citizenship within the local, national and global community.

• Other essential skills that apply across curriculum areas, such as thinking, design, problem-solving, communicating, and using information and communications technology.

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Modern environmentally friendly buildings to accommodate all types of learning

a range of subject choices and opportunities to ensure every student can excel


MakIng THe rIgHT cHoIceS for THe fuTure

Victorian government secondary schools offer a variety of choices for students in their final two years at secondary school to pursue interests, qualifications and their future beyond school.

It’s vital that your child talks to their school careers coordinator to make good use of the many available information resources.

you can also play an important role in guiding your child’s decision.

Victorian Certificate of Applied learning (Vcal)

The Vcal is a hands-on option for years 11 and 12 students, offering practical work-related experience and learning. like the Vce, the Vcal is an accredited secondary certificate.

Students who do the Vcal are likely to be interested in continuing training at Tafe institutes, doing an apprenticeship or traineeship, or getting a job after finishing school.

Students who start their Vcal and then decide that they would like to complete their Vce are able to transfer between certificates. Students also have the option of undertaking both certificates simultaneously, providing the opportunity to tailor their learning.

Victorian Certificate of education (Vce)

The Victorian Certificate of Education (Vce) is an internationally recognised qualification that is awarded to students who successfully complete their secondary education. There are more than 90 studies (subjects) in the Vce.

The Vce provides pathways to further study at university, technical and further education (Tafe) institutes and employment. It is even possible to undertake a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship within the Vce.


Vocational education and Training (VeT)

as part of their Vce or Vcal, students who are interested in undertaking a vocationally oriented study program in a specific industry now have the option of choosing to complete a VeT in Schools program.

There are a number of VeT in Schools programs from which students can choose. Programs are typically delivered through partnership between schools, industry and training providers, and often include opportunities for students to participate in workplace learning.

VeT in Schools programs undertaken as part of the Vce or Vcal also provide students with a pathway to university, Tafe, further training or employment.

School-based apprenticeships and traineeships

a school-based apprenticeship and traineeship offers students enrolled in the Vce or the Vcal the option of combining part-time employment, school and training. a school-based apprenticeship and traineeship can lead to a nationally recognised qualification. It also includes paid part-time work.

Structured workplace learning

as part of a nationally recognised vocational training program, secondary students can undertake structured workplace learning to acquire skills and knowledge in an industry setting. In Victoria, structured workplace learning is an important part of VeT in Schools programs undertaken by Vce and Vcal students.

Work experience

Secondary school students aged 14 and over may complete one or two weeks of work experience. This is normally offered in years 9 and 10, but is not restricted to these years.

Students on work-experience placements gain valuable first-hand knowledge of work that interests them, and improve their communication, employability and organisational skills.

career support in schools

your child’s school careers coordinator can provide advice on all career-related issues.

Victoria has also introduced a range of initiatives to improve outcomes for students moving from school to further education, training and employment, including:

• Managed Individual Pathways program (MIPs) – provides each student 15 years and older with an individual pathway plan and support to help them achieve their goals; each school has a MIPs coordinator

• Local Learning and Employment Networks (LLENs) – brings together education providers, industry, community organisations, individual and government organisations to improve education, training and employment outcomes for young people in communities across Victoria


• Youth Transition Support Initiative (YTSI) – assists disengaged young people aged 15 to 19 to obtain sustainable education, training or employment

• On Track and On Track Connect – follows all school leavers for up to six months after they leave school and offers further advice and support for those not studying or in full-time employment.

HoW can ParenTS HelP?

Parents have a key role to play in their child’s career planning. To help provide the best possible support, you need current information on the options and pathways that are available.

for information about careers and planning for the future see:

• www.education.vic.gov.au/sensecyouth/careertrans/

• www.myfuture.edu.au

• www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au

• www.jobguide.dest.gov.aui for more information, talk

to your school’s careers coordinator or Vce/VeT coordinator or see:

• www.education.vic.gov.au/aboutschool/careers/

• the Victorian curriculum and assessment authority (Vcaa) at www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/vce/

• the Victorian Tertiary admissions centre (VTac) at www.vtac.edu.au


Student welfare coordinators

all government secondary schools employ a student welfare coordinator, who is responsible for helping students handle any welfare issues, such as truancy, bullying, drug use and depression.

Primary welfare officers

Primary welfare officers support students who are at risk of disengaging from school and who are not achieving their educational potential.

addITIonal SuPPorT

Student support services

The student support services program provides access to specialist learning and health support. Specialist staff include social workers, school nurses, student welfare coordinators, speech pathologists and curriculum consultants.

School nursing Programs

The Primary School nursing Program conducts a health assessment of all Prep children. nurses also respond to referrals from school staff regarding identified health issues for students at any year level and provide referrals to relevant health practitioners.

The Secondary School nursing Program aims to reduce health risks to young people and promote better health in the school community through health promotion activities and individual health counselling for students.


Students with disabilities

Victorian government schools are committed to ensuring that all students have access to a quality education that meets their individual needs. Schools enrolling students with disabilities receive additional government support to meet students’ individual needs.

Services for koorie students

Victoria is committed to delivering the best possible education to Victoria’s koorie students and has developed the strategy Wannik, Learning Together – Journey to Our Future. The strategy includes more koorie support workers in schools, and the redesign of roles and responsibilities to ensure high level support for individual koorie students and their families.

for more information on services for koorie students contact your school or regional education office.

for more information about support for students, see www.education.vic.gov.au/healthwellbeing

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STayIng InforMed and InVolVed

you can participate in your child’s education, both formally and informally, through school councils, parent clubs, volunteering, or simply by staying up to date with news about what is happening at your school and in education generally.

Homework

Homework is an opportunity for you to participate in your child’s education. your child will generally have homework set and, as they move into more senior years, the homework and study demands will increase. If you have any questions about homework or your child’s progress, talk to your child’s school.

research shows that involvement in schools by parents helps children achieve the best possible learning outcomes.

you can HelP your cHIld WITH HoMeWork By:

• taking an active interest in their homework – discuss homework tasks

• providing a dedicated place for homework and study if possible

• ensuring that your child keeps a homework diary

• reading texts set by teachers and discussing them with your child

• encouraging your child to balance the time spent between homework and other activities

• alerting the school to any domestic circumstances or extracurricular activities that may need to be considered when homework is being set or marked

• interpreting and translating services.


Student report cards

The student report card provides you with a clear picture of your child’s progress. It is used in all Victorian government schools to report student achievement in years Prep to 10. you will receive a report card twice a year.

Parent–teacher interviews

Parents normally have at least one formal interview with their child’s teacher/s each year. It’s a good idea to prepare for the interview by making a list of the questions or issues that you would like to discuss. If you cannot make the formal interview, you can contact the school to make a time to speak with your child’s teachers or year-level coordinator.

a parent–teacher interview allows you to:

• discuss how your child is progressing, both academically and socially

• see examples of your child’s school work

• get to know your child’s teachers

• keep informed about plans for your child’s future learning

• agree on the best way to keep in touch, such as email, telephone, or notes in your child’s school diary.

Interpreting services are available for parents from non-english speaking backgrounds. for more information contact your child’s school.

School newsletters

Schools place important information in newsletters, so reading your child’s school newsletter is a good way to keep informed and learn about the activities in which you and your child can be involved.

School councils

all Victorian government schools have a school council. The school council provides an opportunity for parents and other community members to be involved in governing the school. you don’t need any particular qualifications or experience – schools look for enthusiastic parents who want to help improve the learning outcomes for all students. all parents of students enrolled at the school are eligible to vote.


Parent clubs and associations

Many schools have a club or association for parents seeking an active role in the school. These may go by the name of a parent and citizens association (P&c) or parent club. Parent clubs provide you with the opportunity to participate and contribute to the wellbeing of your school community and to stay connected with your child’s education. for more information, contact your child’s school.

Volunteers in schools

Victorian government schools have volunteer programs where parents can directly participate in school activities. opportunities to volunteer at your school may include helping in school activities, such as canteen, excursion and school events; assisting with reading and mathematics programs; and participating in environment committees and cultural groups.

read your school newsletter or contact your child’s school to find out more.

Interpreting and translating services

all government schools can provide access to interpreting and translating services, free of charge, for parents from language backgrounds other than english. Schools can arrange translations of key newsletter items, school notices and program information.

Parent update

Parent Update is a free government email newsletter for parents with the latest information and changes to education

in Victoria.

for more information: • student report cards – speak

to your school or see www.education.vic.gov.au/aboutschool/studentreports/

• interpreting services, see www.education.vic.gov.au/interpreting

• about how to get involved with your school, talk to your school or see www.education.vic.gov.au/aboutschool/participation

• Subscribe online to Parent Update at www.education.vic.gov.au/parentupdate/

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• ABSTUDY – available to an Indigenous secondary or tertiary student or a full-time new apprentice, aBSTudy may help you stay at school or go on to further studies. It consists of a fortnightly living allowance as well as additional components to help with the costs associated with attending school.

• Student scholarships – a number of scholarships are offered to primary and secondary students and range in value from $250 to over $2000. They can be applied for online between november and december each year.

www.education.vic.gov.au/aboutschool/lifeatschool/financialservices.htm

A range of financial assistance is available for parents and children. This includes:

• School Start Bonus – a one-off payment of $300 for each student starting Prep or year 7 to help meet the costs of attending school

• Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) – provides assistance to lower-income families to help with the costs associated with sending their children to school

• Youth Allowance Scheme – helps if you are a young person who is studying, undertaking training or a new apprenticeship, or are looking for work.

fInancIal aSSISTance To HelP your faMIly

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Further information

Department of Education and Early Childhood Development website: www.education.vic.gov.au

Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Information and Referral Services Phone: 1800 809 834 (freecall) Email: [email protected]

You can also download a PDF version or request a hard copy of our Welcome to School and Welcome to Secondary School handbooks.

This document is printed using eco-friendly inks and paper with recycled content

a parent’s guide to victorian government schools · 2016-03-14 · a parent’s guide to...

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