Overview

The curriculum structure of Emerald Secondary College reflects the framework provided by the Victorian Essential Learning Standards (VELS). The VELS framework is based on the need to prepare students for the demands of working and living in the twenty-first century. To achieve this aim Emerald's approach is based on the latest research and teacher knowledge about learning, community and business expectations, and the need to prepare students for a range of career pathways from tertiary studies and other further studies to apprenticeships and other work based programs.

Emerald Secondary College embraces the needs of the learner as a whole person through the VELS structure, which provides a thorough grounding in the traditional Disciplinary Learning, through subjects including: English, Mathematics, Science, SOSE (History, Geography and the Humanities), the Arts and LOTE.

Physical, Social and Personal Learning is taught in subjects including Health and Physical Education, and our 'You Can Do It' program.

The increasing importance of technology, communication and computers is recognised through Interdisciplinary Learning subjects including: Design and Technology subjects, Information Technology and learning good communication skills and thinking skills in all subject areas.

Curriculum and Student Programs

One of our most valued attributes is Emerald's ability to supplement its curriculum with a range of cross curricula and extra curricula programs and experiences. We offer a highly successful Outdoor Education program that includes camps, bushwalking and interstate excursions. An opportunity to spend a term studying in the Alpine region was offered to our students in the middle years. In year 9 students can elect to foster their leadership and lifesaving skills through the Advance Program which enables students to be eligible for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. The Year 9 Personal Best Program offers a wide range of opportunities for students to work in smaller groups to develop their knowledge and skills in an area that they are passionate about. The Swinburne University Project, which involves students working in collaboration with a university student from Swinburne University, Lilydale is one such offering.

Our recent success in the Rock Eisteddfod and our drama performances ensures such opportunities are highly sought after by students wanting to shine in the performing arts area. Vocational training and experiences is very much part of our program as students enter the middle years and start to choose their own pathways. Leadership opportunities are provided through the Student Leadership Program and leadership groups such as the Performing Arts, Computers (ICT) and Sustainability Group.

Assessment and Reporting

Assessment for years 7-10 is based on the Victorian Learning Standards, and assessment for VCE is based on guidelines set by the Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority. Parents receive mid semester reports at the end of terms 1 and 3, and end of semester reports, which include detailed comments and advice, letter grades based on the VELS, and individual student goals. There are also Parent-Student-Teacher afternoon/evenings held twice yearly at mid semester.