Step Ahead
“Effective transition programs help students build confidence, establish supportive relationships, and develop the learning habits necessary for success in senior schooling” (Evans & Poole,1991). The Step Ahead programme for 2026 Year 11 & 12 students commences on Monday 24th November. For our 2026 senior students, stepping into full VCE &/or VCE-VM programmes of study provides an important foundation. Students will embed the VCE subject requirements, assessment expectations, and strategies for effective time management and study. Teachers will be delivering the robust and rigorous curriculum that the students are accustomed to, along with learning activities to help them understand the demands of Units 1 and/or 2, setting them up for success throughout the senior years.
“If you look for shortcuts, you will always be disappointed. The long road is the only road to true success” (George St. Pierre). The Step Ahead programme for our 2026 Year 8-10 students commences on Monday 1st December. This week is also accompanied by the Year 7 2026 Orientation Day on Wednesday 3rd December. The Step Ahead programme in the junior years not only helps students prepare academically, but also fosters independence, responsibility, and a positive mindset toward future learning. The step into an advanced year group prior to the formal beginning of the calendar year is designed to help students familiarise themselves with the expectations, routines, and challenges of their next year level. From an evidence-informed perspective, structured transitions through year groups strengthen student confidence and readiness for senior study (Anderson et al., 2000; VCAA, 2023). Programs such as Step Ahead provide valuable opportunities for students to develop the academic, organisational, and emotional skills required for success in the Victorian Certificate of Education (Hattie, 2009; Zimmerman, 2002).
Chris Needle
Assistant Principal, Professional Culture