Education showcase

An expo with a difference is being offered for the first time at Beechworth Secondary College (BSC) next Tuesday night. BSC students entering Year 10, 11 and 12 next year with their families have a chance to discover a huge variety of learning programs and pathway options offered by the college at the Senior Years Expo wrapped around the VCE. College principal Patricia Broom said the college also invites students who travel out of town for their secondary schooling with their families to see the many changes at BSC and consider the benefits of local public education. “We are keen to accept enrolments in years 10,11 and 12 as we can support students in whatever pathway they are considering,” she said. “Our year 7 enrolments have increased, but we have spaces in our senior years to accommodate more into our excellent programs.” Students and parents on the night can chat to teachers from across all subjects and programs including university extension information, available support as well as pathways advice from trained and experienced advisors. BSC students will be on hand to talk about their studies too. “Suggestions for preparing for senior years, and pre-requisites for specific areas of interest – whether university or trades will be covered too,” Ms Broom said. Ms Broom said as a smaller secondary college, the school is experienced in developing course options tailored to suit individual students. “It might be looking at extension subjects for the VCE or completing the vocational major – a Vocational Education and Training (VET) subject – or considering the School Based Apprenticeship (SBAT) with a Head Start specialist onsite to help find an SBAT,” she said. Head Start combines secondary school education with an apprenticeship or traineeship. Among the school’s wide study options includes a link with the Centre for Higher Education Studies (CHES) available to students studying at state schools at no cost. Ms Broom said CHES gives students from year 10, access to extension subjects, and in year 12, access to various subjects across all universities. Other study options include courses at GOTAFE in Wangaratta and Wodonga with free transport available, or a VET subject can be undertaken at the school. “We can adjust courses to suit students – whether extending practical options, including structured workplace learning, or supporting extension for students aiming for a high ATAR or early entry to universities," Ms Broom said. “We also build in pathway camps at year 11 and 12 successfully building motivation for success, and clarifying what students may be interested in.” Ms Broom said local community members, some including past students, support students in pathway programs by giving time to speak about their own careers and stages of learning. “The VET and VM work place structure is a great way for students to experience different pathways and ensure they are working towards what will best suit their interests and skills,” she said. Ms Broom also said the college built strong connections and opportunities within local communities. “Senior students volunteer to visit aged care residents at Beechworth Health Service’s Stringy Bark Lodge each week," she said. “It’s an outstanding example of having a positive impact in your local community.” Among new courses is Ag-Horticulture, a popular choice among students giving practical learning to use in everyday rural living. “We have outstanding teachers, smaller classes in senior school, and great facilities,” she said. Ms Broom said there is a strong sense of community and support at the school with students and staff supporting and caring for individuals. “Our teachers are specialists in their method – they know their students, most have smaller numbers in classes than found in other schools which gives more individual attention,” she said. The principal also said results are comparative or exceed other schools in the area, along with outstanding completion rates for all courses. The Senior Years Expo on Tuesday, 29 July at the college campus 85 Balaclava Road is being held between 5pm and 7pm with a presentation at 6pm.

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