Trial Examinations

To assist students undertaking a 3/4 Unit to achieve their potential, VCE Trial Examinations were held during the first week of the September holidays. These trial examinations gave students the best opportunity to succeed in their final examinations. These examinations were compulsory and will be an opportunity to provide students with vital feedback on areas of strength and areas requiring improvement.

Parents/carers will be receiving a transcript of examination results to inform the progress of your child’s study program for end of year external examinations. These transcripts will be available at the commencement of Week 2, Term 4.

VCAA Examinations

At the conclusion of Term 3, students in Year 12 gathered for an assembly which outlined the requirements for the examinations and the guidelines for the end of year celebrations. This presentation was provided to families.

During the assembly, students completing a Unit 3/4 subject were provided with an examination navigator that outlined dates of the exams, rules and regulations, and approved materials for each of the examinations. Whilst each student was provided with a hard copy of the Navigator, they can also be found here:

VCE Exams Navigator2024

Students can often find the time leading up to exams quite overwhelming. Here are some tips that students might find useful during this time.

1. GET A CLEAR HEAD

• Having a clear head makes it easier to concentrate.
• Having a clear working space, using a to-do-list to schedule tasks can help you prioritise what is important.

2. REGULAR STUDY HABITS

• Divide your day into blocks and take regular breaks.
• Alternate your study blocks with short breaks to maximise productivity and focus.
• Remember that our maximum attention focus is 50 minutes.

3. EAT, SLEEP & DRINK

• A good night's sleep and drinking water is essential for studying effectively.
• Approximately 8-10 hours of sleep per night helps students function to the best of their abilities during exam revision.
• Nutritious meals and study snacks with a balance of protein, antioxidants, omega 3 and dairy is imperative to maintaining focus.

4. EXERCISE

• Regular exercise is beneficial for your health in general and concentration.
• Various studies have shown that just 10-40 minutes of exercise has a positive effect.
• Exercise increases self confidence, reduces stress and encourages a better night's sleep.

5. ASK FOR HELP

• When unsure of any content, it is always best to ask your teacher.
• Teachers have a wealth of knowledge and can offer a range of different techniques that will assist you in gaining and clarifying knowledge.

6. OTHER PRACTICAL TIPS

• Be mindful of your posture when studying for long periods - stretch when needed.
• Go offline before bed - think about removing yourself from social media.
• If you are feeling overwhelmed, see your teachers or visit the Wellness Centre for further support.
• Completing questions is the best method for study, use past papers and teachers to check responses.

Understanding Vision for Instruction – a guide for parents

In February 2024, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) changed the way reading, writing and mathematics are taught in its 300 primary and secondary schools in the Archdiocese of Melbourne.

Vision for Instruction promotes explicit instruction, a way of teaching in which complex skills are introduced to students in small steps, supported by clear explanations and demonstrations of what students are expected to learn. Students then practise what they have learned and receive feedback from their teacher until the skill is mastered.

MACS is leading explicit instruction and evidence-based practice education in Victoria to achieve teaching and learning excellence. To find out what becoming a flourishing learner means for your child, and how you can help, read Parents Guide to Vision for Instruction and ask your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

MACS also regularly posts about Vision for Instruction in social media.

Vision for Instruction Parent Guide

Chantelle Gauci - Deputy Principal, Learning & Staff