From the Senior Years
At this stage of Term 4, Year 11 students are keenly aware of the passing of time in the VCE. They have witnessed the Year 12 students’ final assembly and celebration events during the first fortnight of the term. Additionally, they would no doubt have heard the wonderful stories buzzing around Altiora Level 1 Commons about the joyful Valedictory mass and dinner – with some Year 11 students attending as siblings. Finally, they are witnessing the Year 12 students complete their VCAA Unit 3 – 4 examinations as a culmination of learning and formal schooling. No doubt many Year 11s have a sense that Altiora is much quieter during the examination period.
As Year 11 students approach their examinations, it is important to recognise that these assessments are about much more than final grades. Year 11 exams provide valuable preparation for the academic demands of Year 12, helping students develop the knowledge, habits and skills needed to succeed in their final years of secondary school.
One of the most significant benefits of Year 11 examinations is the opportunity to practise effective study routines. Students learn how to create study schedules, set priorities and manage competing commitments. These are vital skills that not only benefit schooling, but extend further into tertiary study and future employment. Managing a range of competing priorities and allocating time to task are key skills in the 21st century.
The examination period highlights the benefits of time management and planning abilities. Preparing for multiple subjects requires students to organise their workload, meet deadlines and maintain consistency over an extended period. Learning how to balance revision with co-curricular activities, employment and personal commitments is an important part of becoming an independent learner.
In addition, Year 11 exams encourage students to develop resilience and adaptability. Students gain experience responding to challenges, reflecting on their performance and identifying strategies for improvement. What matters is the response and continued focus on learning, improvement and refinement. Supporting students in having reflective conversation and ‘big picture’ learning during the examinations is a great way for parents to engage, support and encourage independence and accountability for VCE learning.
Such conversations help students to build confidence by reflecting on most effective study habits and what preparation strategies have delivered the most return on time investment.
Shortly, Year 11 students will step ahead into their Year 12 year as the Class of 2027. This begins on Monday 23 November through to Friday 4 December.
Tom Crowle
Senior Years Leader