Aspire News | March 2024 Edition

Concluding Term 1

I’m writing this report on the day of our Term 1 Student Learning Conferences at the conclusion of a strong opening term. Our Student Learning Conference days allow our students to talk their parents and carers through their learning in different subjects, demonstrate progress and set learning goals. Broadly speaking we have had a very solid start to the year from most students, however in terms of 2 we would like to see improvement in timeliness to class, bringing required equipment to every class and uniform compliance.

Build10 Program

An exciting new opportunity has arisen for students from Elevation Secondary College. We were very recently approached by Kangan TAFE about a pilot program called Build 10. This program allows students testing in careers within the building industry to undertake an accelerated pathway to nationally recognised qualifications or further employment and training.

14 of our Year 10 students have begun this week the two day a week program which will qualify them at the Certificate 3 level before the end of the year. This is usually a Year 12 level qualification. This program will accelerate these students’ pathway into the building industry and provide them with much broader options for choice using their education at school, TSFE, via full time employment or a traineeship next year.

Due to the proactive work of Mr Schutz and the pathways team, we have worked with Kangan to open two classes within the program- allowing more of our students a chance to accelerate their career.

An amazing opportunity for Elevation students.

Traffic Reminders

Thank you to members of our community who continue to drive safely and with caution near the school at drop off and pick up time. The increased volume of students and traffic this year means that we need all members of the community to be cautious when driving near the school. Due to the existing road network and location of our families’ homes nearly all of our students live to the north and east of the school and leave via Elevation Boulevard and Vantage Boulevard. This creates a huge bottleneck with nearly 1000 students exiting the college via the same couple of roads.

While most of our students do the right thing and are sensible near the roads, teenagers can and will make mistakes. Teenagers also do not have fully developed risk and judgment centres of the brain making them more prone to making mistakes in traffic than adults.

These mistakes are usually not intentional or malicious.

To the driving adults of our community- please continue to display caution, patience and care when driving near the school.

Please remember to:

• Please drive safely when near the school.
• Where possible, find a spot to meet your child away from the main entrances.
• Encourage walking, riding and public transport.
• Follow all directions from the crossing guards

School Council Advocacy

As I have mentioned before School management and School council have been actively pursuing more traffic mitigation and crossing supervisors from Hume Council. Families can advocate for these measures by contacting Hume Council directly as well.

Showcase Evening 2024

Want to explore our diverse academic and enrichment opportunities for your child?

Prospective families are invited to our Showcase Evening on 29^th April 2024. This is a great chance for you to explore our College, meet our teaching team and see the curriculum on offer.

Book your Showcase Evening tickets here. 

Colin Burke

The end of Term 1 can often be a nervous and exciting time for students because there is so much assessment going on! In addition to NAPLAN, most of our VCE students have just received their first SAC results back, and all students have received their grades for their first Learning Tasks, with Year 7s receiving a grade on an assessment task for the first time in secondary school.

Regardless of whether students are in Year 7 or 11, students rarely feel excited or happy about a summative (final) assessment task so it’s important that teachers and families are able to help them approach these tasks and put them in perspective. Here are some of the ways we talk about assessment tasks with students, including why we do them and how to use them to your advantage.

There are many different ways students are assessed, not just tests and assignments

Schools have multiple methods to assessing students and different schools will have different approaches to weighing and sharing these assessments with students. We don’t just assess students on Common Assessment Tasks (CATs). At Elevation Secondary College, all students in Years 7 – 10 are assessed on their overall demonstration of knowledge and skills in the Victorian Curriculum. Teachers are constantly monitoring student progress and we draw on lots of different pieces of evidence to make a judgment about what the student has achieved. For example, a Visual Arts teacher at the school will use students’ oral answers to questions posed in class, small drawing or sketching exercises students use to practice, draft work, written answers as well as assessed artworks and formal reflections. Teachers are constantly looking for signs that students have learned when they judge a student’s ‘level’ on the Victorian Curriculum.

However, at Elevation Secondary College we regularly rank and assess student work using grades and percentages. Our explicit aim as a College is to prepare students for their VCE and post-secondary pathways and regardless of what they choose, ‘high-stakes performance’, ‘timed’ and ‘ranked’ assessment will be present in our students’ further study and future careers to varying extents. We want students to know that assessment – whether it is an exam, assignment, performance review or a competency test – is a normal part of life and something we should prepare for.

Angela Lane, Sonia Loudon, Kyle Schutz & Andrew Stock

Assistant Principals

Dear Year 7 & Year 8 students and families,

As we reach the end of our first term for 2024, we reflect on the accomplishments, growth and memorable moments we have achieved together. From academic achievements, learning growth and extracurricular adventures, it has been a productive and memorable journey so far.

Achievements & Extracurricular adventures

• Year 7 students have completed their first full term of secondary school!
• Students have completed their first round of Core Assessment Tasks (CAT’s) and are steadily working towards the completion of their second CAT for each of their subjects. CAT 1 results are now available on Compass. 
• Teachers have completed three cycles of effort and rigor data for each student across all subjects throughout the term. This data is available on compass for your review and we encourage families to reflect on the data with their child.
• Year 7 students undertook NAPLAN assessments with focus and determination this term 
• In celebration of Harmony Day, students proudly adorned attire reflecting their diverse cultural backgrounds, accompanied by a lively fusion of music from around the world, fostering unity and appreciation for multiculturalism within our school community.
• Special mention to 7F for having the highest class total of ASPIRE points!

Year 7 Camp

The Year 7 students embarked on an exhilarating journey at Kinglake Forest Adventures during their recent camp. Students forged new friendships but also delved into discovering their individual strengths. From conquering the free fall to navigating the high ropes course, each challenge showcased their unwavering resilience and determination. We applaud their courage and teamwork, and are immensely proud of their achievements.

Looking Ahead:

• As we bid farewell to this term and eagerly anticipate the next, let’s continue to embrace challenges with courage, celebrate each other’s successes, and support one another with kindness and empathy.
• Students will get to unleash their inner athlete on Athletics Day early next term (Wednesday May 8, 2024). This is a whole school all-day event filled with opportunities for competition and fun for all students, whether or not they compete in events.

Finally, as we head into the well-deserved term break, let’s take this opportunity to recharge, relax, and rejuvenate. Whether you’re embarking on exciting adventures or enjoying some quiet time at home, make the most of every moment and come back refreshed and ready for the adventures that await us in the new term.

Wishing you all a wonderful end-of-term break. See you back at school on Monday, April 15.

Courtney Gorham & Gulsen Tankir

Year 7 & Year 8 Level Leaders

Year 9

As we move toward the end of a very busy and productive Term 1, Year 9 are approaching the mid-point of their elective subjects. We encourage students to reflect on what they have been learning and what they are enjoying with an eye to the future. This is also an opportunity to acknowledge the great work being done by our year 9 and 10 students across all classes.

I would like to remind year 9 families again about Morrisby testing, run by My Careers Insights. If you have not returned a consent form for your child so far, please do so as soon as possible. They can speak to Ms Konstantinakos or their mentor group teacher if they require a spare copy. Morrisby testing provides a vital opportunity for students to reflect on what careers their skills and interests may suit. Having the opportunity to take part in this and reflecting on their results will help inform them as they select subjects in pathways in their upcoming years.

On Wednesday 8th May (4th week of term 2) the School Athletics Carnival will be held. This is always an enjoyable day for all students and staff to share and will be a good way to start off the term.

This term we have celebrated photo day, International Women’s day, Labour Day, Harmony Day and also participated in the running of NAPLAN.

Once again ESC community, thank you to all the Year 9 and 10 students for their hard work this term. We hope that all students have a safe and enjoyable Term 1 break and return to school refreshed for a productive Term 2.

“Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up”

-Rocky Balboa

Year 10

Well done to all year 10’s as we reach the end of Term 1. As it is only the beginning of the year, it is so good to see so many students thinking about their pathway in the future and already having conversations and taking steps towards their careers.

An amazing effort to the students that are taking and creating opportunities to start their pathway. Many students have completed their first term of a VCE subject and are rising to the challenge. Continue to push yourselves and get support from your teachers as you begin this journey.

Good job to students that have worked with the careers team and have found themselves School Based Apprenticeships or Traineeships (SBAT). This is a great opportunity for students to continue their schooling and in collaboration with Headstart (who run the SBAT program). Students got to complete one day of on the job training as well as a day at TAFE. This is a great way to get one foot in the door towards an apprenticeship and staying connected with their schooling as well. Well done to the students that have followed this up with the careers team here at school and have organised this.

If you want more details or unsure about your career pathway, come speak with the careers team in the Year 10 office to hear about plenty of different options available to you.

Women in Trade | Year 10 Opportunity Beginning of Term 2

There is an opportunity available for our Year 10 students who would like to be apart of Women in Trade- Certificate II in Furniture Making and Certificate II in Electrotechnology.

The aim of the program is to have women in trade courses to introduce Year 10 females to a practical-based hands-on course where they will experience VET education. Students will have the chance to an exploratory learning experience in a small class under the supervision female teaching staff.

The course will strive to build their hand and power tool skills, accuracy, teamwork, and communication. Throughout the course we will also have guest speakers in to promote­ women in trades and career options into the future.

If this interests you, please come speak with the Year 10 team for more information.

Senior School

Dear Senior School Families,

Most of our VCE and VCE VM Students have completed their first round of Student Assessed Coursework (SACs). The results for these are on Compass and can be seen by both students and families.

We highly recommend that you view your child’s results and have a discussion with them about how they performed, as well as what they can do to improve.

Attendance Reminders

A reminder to families that all VCE and VCE VM students have a minimum attendance requirement as per our VCE Handbook. 

Students who miss out on a SAC, must obtain a Medical Certificate or a Statutory Declaration in order to complete the SAC. Once the required documentation is submitted, students will be enrolled in Academic Catch Up in order to complete their assessment. Students who do not have official documentation for their absence, will be awarded a 0 for their assessment.

Senior School Information Evening

As stated in our previous post, the Senior School is holding an information evening for all VCE and VCE VM parents. This event will take place on Tuesday the 23rd of April at 6pm. More information will follow on Compass.

During this event, we will be explaining the following:

• What is Coursework?
• What is a SAC?
• How does my child pass a Unit 1 subject?
• Attendance requirements
• Why do we need to bring Medical Certificates and Statutory Declarations?
• Where can I obtain additional support?

Uniform

This is just a reminder that all students are required to be wearing full academic uniform at all times. We appreciate all families’ support when dropping off your children and ensuring they’re wearing the correct uniform. 

On behalf of the Senior School, we wish all families a safe and joyful holiday break. We look forward to seeing you all on the information evening on the 23rd of April.

Asli Dulger

Senior School Leader

Careers & Pathways

Build-10 Program

In exciting news 15 of our Year 10 students have been accepted into Kangan TAFE’s Build-10 Program. Students had to put in an application, which had to be supported by our team here at Elevation. The students selected will be attending Kangan TAFE in Broadmeadows two days a week and Elevation Secondary College three days. While at Kangan TAFE they will be completing units in Building and Construction. This is a great opportunity for these students to try out a career pathway throughout the remainder of Year 10. 

HeadStart

All the Year 10 students had a presentation from HeadStart. HeadStart will support students who have an interest in staying at school while also starting their apprenticeship. Students should have a clear apprenticeship or traineeship pathways. If students are interested in finding out more they should contact the Careers Department.

Work Experience

The organisation of Year 10 Work Experience is well underway. Students should have already completed their paperwork, which should be signed by their employers, parents/carers, students and school. They have been completing their Safe@Work Certificates during PMD sessions on Tuesday mornings. It is in the curriculum that all Year 10s take part in this program. If students have not completed their form they must contact the Careers Department.

Aspire Recognition Week

The Aspire shop is continuing in 2024 and is continuing to reward students that are demonstrating the school values of in their everyday school life:

Aim High, Work Hard and Be Good. 

For every positive action that gets reported on Compass, students earn an Aspire point. These build up and allow students to purchase items in the Aspire Shop. The more Aspire points a student has the better the prizes they can buy. The Aspire shop will continue to run this year and will be celebrated 2-3 times each Term with an Aspire Recognition Week towards the end of each month.

This is a week to review and celebrate all the work that students have done and celebrate in MG’s the prizes that students have been able to earn through their work! Students will also have the opportunity to recognise the work that their Teachers are doing with them.

Aspire of the Month

Students can be recognised and nominated for demonstrated exceptional values of Aim High, Work Hard and Be Good within the school community. At the end of each month, the student that has achieved the greatest Aspire in each category is rewarded with an Aspire of the month Certificate and an exclusive prize only available by achieving Aspire of the Month.

There is a different one for each School Value. Who will be the first student ever to collect the set?

Aspire of the Month

This year we are introducing ‘Aspire of the Month’. This is to recognise students that have demonstrated exceptional values of Aim High, Work Hard and Be Good within the school community.

Aspire’s of the Month– January & February

Aim High: Malak 8B

Work Hard: Pavani 8C

Be Good: Zeynep 11A

Aspire’s of the Month– February & March

Aim High: Saviru 8F

Work Hard: Morees 9B

Be Good: Thejashree 11A

Well done to all our award winners this month. There were over 260 nominations for Aspire of the month and what you have demonstrated has been exceptional and well deserving of the awards! Continue to Aspire in everything that you do!

This Aspire shop is mainly run through support and donations from local businesses. If you would like to offer something into the Aspire shop as a prize for students, please contact the school in regards to the Aspire Shop.

Science

At Elevation Secondary College, our commitment to fostering a passion for science spans across all levels of education. In our junior years, 7 to 9, we offer a comprehensive curriculum encompassing all four branches of science: chemistry, biology, physics, and earth and space science. These foundational years serve as pillars for developing a robust understanding of scientific principles and inquiry skills. Through a blend of theoretical lecture-based learning and practical experiments, our students gain hands-on experience, to support their understanding of key concepts.

As our students transition into their senior years, we witness a natural progression towards specialisation in their scientific studies. Senior sciences take on a more focused approach, allowing students to delve deeper into their interests and pursue their passions with greater intensity. It’s with immense pleasure that we announce the launch of our first cohort of VCE Science classes, marking an exciting new chapter for Elevation Secondary College.

In these VCE Science classes, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in their chosen fields of study, with specialised courses available in Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and VET Laboratory Skills. This significant milestone underscores our commitment to catering to the diverse interests and ambitions of our senior students.

New Staff

We are thrilled to introduce the newest members of our faculty, each bringing unique expertise and passion to our science department:

• Ms. Jessica Smith (Physics, General Science, and Mathematics)
• Ms. Amanpreet Kaur (Biology & General Science)
• Ms. Nova McNamara (Chemistry & General Science)
• Mr. Gregory Wilson (Biology, Chemistry, and General Science)
• Mr. Jason Stradella (Psychology & General Science)
• Ms. Kayla Donoghue (Forensic Science)
• Ms. Rayanne Chebbou (Psychology)
• Ms. Kyla Bokelund (Biology, General Science, and Psychology)

Tips for Success in Science Class

At Elevation Secondary School, we encourage our students to Aim High, Work Hard, and Be Good in their science studies. To succeed in science class, students should:

• Come prepared with all necessary materials, including textbooks and laptops, ready to engage in active learning. 
• Revise regularly, dedicating 15-20 minutes each night to review their notes and concepts covered in class. Additionally, completing assigned textbook questions reinforces understanding and helps solidify knowledge. 
• Seek teacher help and feedback whenever needed, as this fosters a deeper comprehension of complex scientific concepts and ensures continuous improvement. 

By adopting these practices, our students can excel academically and develop crucial skills for future success in science.

Stay tuned for updates and highlights from our Science classes as we continue to push the boundaries of scientific exploration at Elevation Secondary College.

Jessica Beach

Learning Specialist- Science & PLCs

Maths

Mathematics forms the backbone of education, transcending beyond the confines of classroom walls to become an indispensable tool in everyday life. At Elevation Secondary College, we understand the paramount importance of numeracy skills in equipping our students for success in both their academic pursuits and future endeavors.

Numeracy skills aren’t merely about solving equations or memorising formulas; they are about cultivating a mindset of critical thinking, problem-solving, and logical reasoning. From managing personal finances to analysing complex data sets, proficiency in mathematics empowers individuals to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of the modern world with confidence.

In line with our commitment to fostering mathematical excellence, we use Maths Pathway, an innovative online program designed to cater to each student’s unique learning needs. Maths Pathway offers personalised instruction, providing additional support or acceleration based on individual abilities and requirements. Students in Years 7-10 are tasked with completing six modules fortnightly as part of their mathematics curriculum. By maintaining this pace, we anticipate significant growth in students’ mathematical proficiency, with an estimated advancement of two years.

New Staff

We are delighted to welcome to cohort of new educators to our esteemed Mathematics faculty:

Each of these talented individuals brings a wealth of experience and passion for mathematics education, enriching our learning community and contributing to the cultivation of mathematical excellence at Elevation Secondary College.

Tips for Success in Maths Class

Succeeding in Maths at Elevation requires a blend of preparation, engagement, and persistence. To succeed in maths class, students should:

• Come prepared with necessary equipment, especially laptops for Maths Pathways lessons, to facilitate active participation.
• Seek additional support from teachers when facing challenging concepts or problems.
• Utilise class time effectively to focus on completing practice problems and reinforcing understanding.

As we embark on this journey of mathematical exploration and growth, we extend our gratitude to parents, guardians, and the wider community for their continued support. Together, we are shaping the problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders of tomorrow through the power of mathematics.

Alex Mangione

Learning Specialist- Numeracy & PLC

Library News

Over the past few weeks, our library has been bustling with a variety of engaging initiatives and enhancements aimed at enriching the reading and learning experiences of our students. 

Our ongoing wider reading sessions for Year 8 students are in full swing. Students have just completed a feedback and reflection session and have reset their goals for when the sessions continue in Term 2. Many students will bring their novels home to work on meeting their page goals over the holidays.

Please encourage your children to put down their phones and pick up a book for at least 20 minutes a day.

Perhaps most exciting for students has been the ten new chess sets we have acquired. Chess promotes critical thinking and concentration, offering students a fun way to enhance their strategic skills. It has been fantastic to see students from all year groups challenging each other and providing advice and guidance to their peers.

Victorian Premier’s Reading Challenge

Looking ahead, the Victorian Premier’s Reading Challenge will launch in Term 2. This challenge encourages students to set reading goals and explore a variety of books. Participating in the challenge is simple—students are registered online, set personal reading goals, and start exploring the curated book list. It’s a great way to discover new authors and genres while embracing a culture of reading. Those who are interested should look out for a Compass post in Week 1 of Term 2. Kate, our Collections and Reader Services Librarian will be running an information and sign up session during lunch time in the first week back.

Other news:

• During Harmony Week, our library showcased a diverse collection of books and resources celebrating different cultures and promoting inclusivity.
• We’re excited to announce the addition of new shelves to accommodate our growing non-fiction and manga collections. 
• Students can also look forward to a Staff Recommendations spinner shelf from Term 2, which will house recommendations from teachers across all subjects.

Please remember to return all overdue books.

SRC Update

Hello to the community!

This term has been a busy one for SRC. It has marked the beginning of our ongoing meeting process and establishing some ongoing processes we hope to continue developing and strengthening as the year progresses. Our young leaders have identified some useful clubs they would like to initiate in the college (to be advertised hopefully by next term for some of them) as well as ideas for how to improve the college from a student perspective. 

By the time of this publishing, the college would have celebrated Harmony Day on the 26th, where we had students wear either appropriate casual wear or cultural clothing. This year we are raising funds for State Schools Relief, which is a not-for-profit organisation that improves the lives of tens of thousands of disadvantaged Victorian students, and their families, each year. Issues such as poverty, neglect, family illness, abuse and homelessness continue to affect many Victorian families. SSR provides government school students with new uniforms, footwear and educational resources, including learning devices. They work side by side with all Victorian primary, secondary, specialist and language schools to ensure that any students facing hardship have the necessary items they require for school.

On the 25th of April (early into Term 2), our leaders will be representing the college for a wreath laying ceremony for ANZAC Day. We will provide some photos and share in the reflection of the sacrifice of those that came before us.

In general, the SRC hope to hit the ground running with some new incentives, have representatives in each Mentor Group and have some key days organised in advance in association with other areas of the college and community.

These events and dates the SRC will be helping with will include;

• Reconciliation Week/NAIDOC
• Men’s health recognition Day
• National Day of Action Against Bullying & Violence
• RUOK day 
• Remembrance
• International day of person’s with disabilities

We hope everyone has had a productive and amazing first term and we hope that the next term is a continuation of some fantastic work that we are all doing to improve our whole school community, whether it is from a student or teacher perspective.

Early Leaving Policy

School attendance is very important.
Students are required to attend school for the entire day. If there is an unavoidable reason for a student to leave school early on a particular day (such as for a medical appointment) a signed note from home must be provided.
Pickup times should coincide with recess and lunch.
 
Process: 

• Student brings a note from home explaining the absence and the intended departure time (recess or lunch). The note must be signed and dated by a parent/guardian
• Student presents the note from home to the Mini School Admin Office before Mentor Group.
• Student receives a signed Early Leaver note from the mini school.
• At recess or lunch – the student brings the early Leaver note to the Administration Office and signs out.
• Student is picked up

If a pickup time can only be during a timetabled period, the student must show their signed Early Leaver note to their classroom teacher at the designated time and then present to the office to be picked up.
 
School staff will not be collecting students from classes during timetabled periods.
 
It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that they arrive at the office for pickup at the designated time.
 
Learning is extremely important at Elevation Secondary College. Please note that staff cannot collect your child or put an announcement over speakers during class time.

Recess and Lunch Times
Recess –  10:56 – 11:24am
Lunch – 1:20 – 2:02pm

Student Learning Conferences

• Wednesday 27th March
• Thursday 1st August & Friday 2nd August

Curriculum & Student Free Days

• Friday 7th June
• Tuesday 10th December
• Monday 12th August
• Friday 29th November

Public Holidays

• ANZAC Day- Thursday 25th April
• King’s Birthday- Monday 10th June
• Melbourne Cup Day- Tuesday 5th November

Events in Term 2

• Senior School information Evening- Tuesday 23rd April
• Showcase Evening- Monday 29th April
• Athletics Carnival- Wednesday 8th May
• Year 10 Exams- 12th June to 14th June
• GAT- Tuesday 18th June
• Year 10 Work Experience- 24th June to 28th June

2024 Term Dates

Term 1	Tuesday 30th January (Year 7), Wednesday 31st January (Year 8-11) – Thursday 28th March (1.20pm Finish)
Term 2	Monday 15th April – Friday 28th June (1.20pm Finish)
Term 3	Monday 15th July – Friday 20th September (1.20pm Finish)
Term 4	Monday 7th October – Friday 20th December (12:22pm Finish)

Elevation Online Safety Hub Article of the Month

Modeling healthy online behaviours to children

Parents wanting to raise their children to practice healthy digital habits must model those behaviours themselves. Here are our top tips.

Click here to read this article.

To read more articles from Elevation Online Safety Hub, click the link below.

https://elevationsc.onlinesafetyhub.com.au/

College Uniform Store

The uniform shop will no longer operate at the College as Noone have leased a new store right here in Craigieburn Junction shopping precinct and have officially opened their door to for business.

The new store is located at:
Shop A2-E
420-440 Craigieburn Rd, Craigieburn 3064
Store located on Cr Craigieburn Rd and Aitken Blvd next to Carpet Call in the Shopping Precinct.

Trading hours are:
Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Saturday 9am-1pm

Sustainable School Shop

Any Parents/Guardians who are looking to buy or sell their second-hand uniforms or text books please visit the Sustainable Schools website to list or purchase items: http://www.sustainableschoolshop.com.au

So far the results have been very good and we encourage families to take advantage of this method of buying and selling second-hand items.

Here is a how to guide to get you started: