In recognition of the distinct stages students pass through in their development, the College is structured into Junior, Middle and Senior Sub Schools.
With a strong focus on literacy and numeracy, the Junior School program provides students with a solid educational foundation. Students are tested in literacy and numeracy so that appropriate learning programs, including additional support and extension, can be provided for them. An Accelerated Learning Program is available from year 7 for high achieving students.
The College offers a range of Academic, Sporting Achievement, Leadership and Citizenship scholarship opportunities for students entering year 7.
The broader Junior School curriculum provides an excellent range of interesting and challenging subjects. These include the choice of three languages other than English (LOTE), and a range of technology and arts units. English as an Additional Language (EAL) is available to students whose first language is not English and who have resided in Australia for less than 5 years.
In years 9 and 10 the curriculum choices expand to meet the broadening interests and capabilities of the students. Increased self-reliance is fostered as students become more mature and independent.
The College-wide focus on academic excellence continues through the Middle School as students’ progress is continuously monitored by their individual Year Level Coordaintor. High achieving students are offered a range of enrichment electives or advanced study options in Mathematics (for SEAL students), a VCE Humanities subject, Art and Science. This includes the opportunity for Year 10 students to study one Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) subject.
It is during the middle school years that the College begins to focus on and explore the students’ post-college future. Guided by the Managed Individual Pathways Program (MIPs), students experience careers interest testing, course counselling and subject selection advice tailored to their individual preferences and abilities.
In year 10, the MIPs Program provides students with further guidance and advice on pathway choices. Students participate in speed careering, mock interviews and work experience. This is a critical stage in secondary education and the College focuses on supporting students to choose appropriate pathways through VCE, Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) and into further study or employment.
Initiative, personal responsibility for learning and a strong sense of commitment are central to our students’ life in the Senior School.
The collaborative partnerships between staff, students and their families strengthen as the students are supported in their quest for VCE success and successful career pathways. We make it a priority to ensure our students are well prepared for a University or TAFE of their choice, or to pursue employment and vocational training with distinction and confidence. Senior students leave St Albans Secondary College with qualifications that count.
The College is sensitive to the stresses of the senior school years. Students are offered special programs of academic support and personal well-being, including study skills workshops, holiday revision and exam preparation classes, a VCE Supportive Friends group and relaxation sessions.
Students are provided with access to a full range of VCE, Vocational Education and Training (VET), and VCE VM (Vocational Major) programs.
Accomplished students continue to be challenged through enrichment programs in English, English as an Additional Language (EAL), Maths Methods and Specialist Maths, as well as the opportunity for year 11 students to study a year 12 subject.
To ensure students are thoroughly prepared and confident for their future, the MIP’s Program intensifies with individual course counselling, subject selection and planning advice and guidance in choosing an appropriate post-year 12 pathway.
Our senior students benefit from the College’s various community and university-based partnerships, which provide opportunities for induction camps, scholarships and business mentoring programs.