Secondary News
- Mar 6
- 3 min read
T1, Week 6
6000 Microcredential Possibilities!
To launch into our Tall Trees Academy, for our Year 11 students, they have been introduced to a world of options for studying microcredentials. If families would like to look through the variety of options our Stage 6 have, the site can be accessed at alison.com with over 6000 short courses available in areas of the students' individual choice.
Why Microcredentials Matter for Stage 6 Students:
Microcredentials are short, focused certifications that allow students to specialise in niche areas not always covered by the standard curriculum .
Students can "test drive" a career path before committing to a multi-year degree
Microcredentials help our students stand out for part-time jobs and internships.
The courses are often "stackable" meaning they can sometimes be used as credit toward future diplomas or University subjects.
Learning to manage an online, self-paced course is a critical skill for living in this fast-paced world. It encourages independence, agency and autonomy.
Beyond
In the coming few weeks, a new platform will roll out across Years 10, 11 and 12 called Beyond. This platform allows students to discover more about their personality, skills, strengths and weaknesses and how they link to future career options. By utilising this platform, students aren't just gaining knowledge; they are building a digital portfolio that demonstrates initiative to future employers and Universities.
Beyond also gives direct links to various institutions such as TAFE and University, showing various courses students might like and how to apply. The dashboard provides a place to log their marks and watch them improve over time, providing opportunities for our young adults to track their growth. For our Year 11 and 12 students, these marks are also converted into a possible ATAR as a guide for them to see how they are tracking with their goals.
Whilst our Senior Secondary students are blessed with the paid version of this program, families can also access the free version at beyond.edu.au.
Spotlight on Stage 6
This term, we have two of our Stage 6 Student Leaders embarking on challenges that will push them and grow them, all whilst raising funds and awareness for different charities. Last week we shared Callum’s endeavors and this week we have another of our Stage 6 Student Leaders whose heart for sick children has pushed her to put her best foot forward. Evie has swam 26 kilometres during the month of February to raise vital funds for the Starlight Children's Foundation.
Evie shared that every minute of every day, a child in Australia is admitted to hospital. For many of them, it's a scary and an isolating experience – but with your support, we can make a difference in the lives of these precious young children.
If you would like to donate to help bring joy, laughter, and comfort to sick kids when they need it most, Evie would be greatly appreciative.
Congratulations Evie on setting a goal and serving others in the community!
Secondary Awards
Congratulations to our Stage 5 students who were presented with a range of awards this week. It was wonderful to see our students encouraging one another.
Year 9 | Year 10 |
Mia Micah Kellan Isaac Joely Elouise Dylan Cohen Ayden Abigail Liviya | Navrin Dylan Lydia Kaden Terran Evangeline Megan Annabelle Nayte Tayla Oscar Bethany |
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Strategies for HSC Success Webinar
The University of Newcastle are running a "Strategies for HSC Success" webinar, tailored for Year 11 and 12 students and parents. The presentation will be led by a Senior HSC Marker, with the session delving into effective study techniques, exam hacks, and strategies for excelling in HSC assessment tasks. We encourage our Stage 6 students to take the opportunity to gain expert insights and practical advice.
Monday 16th March @ 7pm.
Career Conversations
Arrive and Thrive are holding a webinar supporting parents to have more positive career conversations at home. During this time, parents will gain practical insights to better support young people with career decisions. All participants receive a Career Conversation Kit.
Thursday 12th March 6:30 - 7:30pm - $30.
Mrs A Neale
Head of Secondary
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Secondary | Key Dates: |
Wk 7 9th Mar | International Women’s Breakfast Stage 6 Young Women Student Leaders (note the recent change of date) |
Wk 7 11th Mar | NAPLAN begins Years 7 and 9. Please see important information in Whole School News |
Wk 8 18th Mar | Year 10 Science and Engineering Challenge Year 10 |
Wk 8 19th Mar | HSC Music Excursion Stage 6 Music students |
Wk 9 24th Mar | Art Excursion Stage 5 Art students (note the recent change of date) |
Wk 9 24th Mar | da Vinci Decathlon Excursion Stage 4 Decathlon Team |