Term 1 Newsletter, 2023
Principal's News
Welcome to Term 1, 2023 from the Principal
We are very pleased to report that the results our 2022 Year 12 HSC graduates achieved were exceptionally good. Students exceeded their goals and expectations. The highest ATAR achieved by an ETASC student in 2022 was 85.5. More importantly, every candidate qualified for an ATAR, and all students did their best. Our first-ever Year 12 class has made us very proud of their efforts and achievements.
The beginning of each new year can be a new starting point for everyone, particularly in education. At ET Australia Secondary College (ETASC), we expect students to do their best. Students achieving their best usually enjoy school which in turn will foster life-long learning and help students to achieve their career goals and life aspirations.
2023 marks a fresh start for all students and especially for Year 7 students who are all beginning their high school experience. In Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, and Year 11 we also welcome new students who will also be first-time ET Australia Secondary College (ETASC) students. Our school provides students with a new place to belong.
Our Year 12 HSC students are our school leaders, and we will look to them to maintain and aim to exceed the standard of achievement they have achieved in past years. We wish them every success in their last year of high school.
ETASC is a school model for students who will thrive in a small school environment where the teaching focus is all about preparing students for the world of work and life-long learning. The learning environment at ETASC integrates ethics and behaviour self-management skills so students can concentrate on achieving their best.
I look forward to meeting our new students and to observing our students experiencing positive progress in 2023. I hope that every student enrolled at ETASC fully utilises the opportunities available to them in our school and in the education pathways that are presented.
Tony Mylan
ET Australia Secondary College Principal
Upcoming Events
Excursions and Events
There are a number of School Events planned for Term 1.
Parents/Carers will be emailed with details of each event. Where permission is required, we ask that you give permission through the Compass Portal as instructed. This will ensure that your response goes directly to the staff member who is responsible for that event.
Students without Parent/Carer consent provided cannot be included in the event. Phone calls, handwritten notes and texts are not acceptable unless a prior agreement has been made with the Assistant or Deputy Principal. Some events will be limited due to transport or other considerations, so getting in early will be important once you are notified those bookings are open.
Year 9 Art Incursion
When: Wednesday, 1 March 2023
Where: ETASC
Year 9 will have the opportunity this term to participate in an Aboriginal Art workshop incursion to consolidate their learning in their English unit, “Cultural Perspectives”. Students will be engaging in an introductory art workshop that will look at the history of Aboriginal art and give them a hands-on experience under the direction of local artist Garry Purchase.
Garry is a proud Aboriginal man of Dharawal, Bidjigal and Dhungutti descent. He grew up in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs in Botany and was raised amongst the Aboriginal community of La Perouse. His works have attracted a lot of attention and have also earned Garry a few awards. He took out the major first prize for the Tony Donovan Award at the Reconciliation Exhibition at Gosford Regional Gallery in both 2014 and 2016 with “One Nation” and “Under the Southern Cross”, respectively. His painting “The Journey” won both the Aboriginal Health award and the People’s Choice award at Mental Health Art Works! 2014 and he also won the Aboriginal Health award again in 2016 with “Missing Pieces” and in 2017 with his piece “Tribal Blood”.
For more information on the artist, please go to: https://garry-purchase.myshopify.com/
An information letter will be sent home via Compass closer to the date.
Years 7 & 8 Camp
When: Wednesday 22 March – Friday 24 March 2023
Where: Crosslands Youth & Convention Centre
Years 7 and 8 students will experience the great outdoors at Crosslands Youth and Convention Centre. On this camp, they will undertake team building activities, including high ropes, abseiling, zipline, and canoeing.
These activities will encourage resilience, trust and initiative. Our aim is to help students build strong friendships and enhance their sense of belonging as they settle into their first term at ET Australia Secondary College.
This camp will cover a range of key learning areas, including PDHPE, Geography and Science.
Parents, please look out for the permission note for this excursion which will be sent to you via Compass.
Year 12 Biology & PDHPE Excursion – Museum of Human Disease
When: Tuesday, 4 April 2023
Where: Museum of Human Disease, Ground Floor, Samuels Building UNSW
Infectious and Non-Infectious Disease (Biology) and Health Priorities in Australia (PDHPE). This presentation covers three key disease processes with an emphasis on lifestyle choices and their effect on the body. Inside the Museum, students focus on pathogens, adaptations of pathogens, epidemiology and public health. They also investigate lifestyle, non-infectious diseases and drug use.
Whole School News
Key Dates for Term 1 2023
- The first day of Term for Years 7, 8, 11 & 12 is Tuesday, 31 January 2023.
- The first day of Term for Years 9 & 10 is Wednesday, 1 February 2023.
- The last day of Term for all students is Thursday, 6 April 2023* *This will be a half day for Years 7-10 students.
School Starting Times and First Day of Term Arrangements
- Year 7 and Year 8 students are required to be on campus at 8:55 am for a 9:00 am start time every school day. Students enter our Years 7 to 10 campus via the school reception area located on Level 1, Imperial Shopping Centre, Gosford. Accessing the Imperial Centre via the Erina Street entrance is the most direct entry point for the school. The school hall is open for students and supervised by staff every morning from 8:30 am.
- Year 9 and Year 10 students are required to be at school at 9:05 am for a 9:10 am start time every school day. Students enter our Years 7 to 10 campus via the school reception area located on Level 1, Imperial Shopping Centre, Gosford. Accessing the Imperial Centre via the Erina Street entrance is the most direct entry point for the school. The school hall is open for students and supervised by staff every morning from 8:30 am.
- Years 11 and 12 students are required to be at school every school day at 8:40 am for an 8:45 am start time. Students enter via the school reception located in the driveway of 125 Donnison Street, Gosford. For those students who arrive before 8:40 am, students are welcome to use the student common area from 8:30 am.
- If a student arrives late to school without a valid reason, they are required to surrender their mobile phone to reception for the day. Failure to do so will result in the student having to surrender their phone to the Assistant Principal or Deputy Principal every day for a period of 10 weeks.
New Appointments for 2023 – Deputy Principal and Assistant Principal
With the ongoing enrolment growth and expansion of the college, ETASC is expanding the senior leadership positions in 2023 with the introduction of a new Deputy Principal role. The Deputy Principal will assume the day-to-day running and operations of the school across both campuses. This will allow the Assistant Principal to be primarily student-focused, working with the Teacher on Duty at the Years 7 to 10 campus to support students and staff. The Deputy Principal will also be student-focused with the Years 11 & 12 students and staff. This structural change will provide further support to students and staff and help support the school’s future growth and expansion planned for the Years 11 & 12 campus.
Our current Assistant Principal, Lachlan Scott, will be promoted to the Deputy Principal role this year and will continue overseeing the day-to-day operations of the whole school as well as supporting the Years 11 & 12 students.
We are very pleased to announce that Brooke Gordon has been appointed as Assistant Principal. Brooke brings a wealth of school management experience gained whilst working in a number of schools in Scotland before emigrating to Australia in 2019. Brooke was ETASC’s Teacher on Duty in 2021 and 2022, a role in which she has supported many of our students. Brooke will continue to provide this same level of support while managing student discipline along with other key functions at the Years 7 to 10 campus this year.
Parents/carers who have any questions about their student’s progress, support and or require assistance can still email either Lachlan Scott or Brooke Gordon, and they will ensure you receive a response from the appropriate person.
Increase in School Fees – 2023
School Fees will increase in 2023 to $1600. This increase in fees is the first increase in school fees since 2019.
A reminder to parents and caregivers that ETASC is a fee-paying college, and the contributions made provide opportunities to students to participate in a variety of different learning experiences.
It is a requirement of a student’s enrolment that school fees are paid by parents/carers, and failure to pay fees will result in the student’s enrolment being withdrawn.
Scholarships are available to families who are suffering financial hardship and we encourage all parents/carers to apply for scholarships if they are struggling to pay school fees. Information regarding school fees, payment plans, and scholarships are available on the college website.
For more information on school fees, please refer to the College Handbook relevant to you:
School Management System – COMPASS
Compass is our web-based system that is accessible on any modern web browser or by using the ‘Compass School Manager’ app available on iOS or Android. To access our Parent/Carer Portal, go to:
https://etaustralia-nsw.compass.education
Compass user ID’s and passwords have been sent to all Parent/Carers, if you have any questions about Compass, please contact the College.
From the Compass App, you can:
- Access your child’s Student Progress and Semester Reports
- Book your Parent/Carer/Student and Teacher conferences
- View up-to-date class and school attendance information
- Approve or enter upcoming or past absences for your child
- Download, print details and provide permission to attend upcoming excursions
- Update your registered email and mobile number details (used for SMS alerts)
- Access information regarding upcoming events and news
Regular Pattern of School Attendance Required by Students
A reminder to parents/carers that for their child to continue their enrolment at the college, students need to maintain a consistent pattern of attendance.
The New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) requires all students to have a minimum attendance percentage of 85% throughout the year.
This means the college expects every student to attend school every day unless they are too sick to attend. In the event of an absence caused by illness, the college requires an explanation of the absence within 24 hours of the student’s absence. Notification can be provided via the Compass portal, email, or phone call. In the event of three or more consecutive days off, the college can request a medical certificate to support the provided reasons. If you have other reasons for a student being absent for the day (family emergency for example) please provide the college office with an explanation so we can account for the student’s absence.
For more information on school attendance, please refer to the College Handbook relevant to you:
Reporting Student Absence
It is a government requirement for parents/carers to notify and provide a reason for their child’s absence from school on every occasion. To ensure notifications are always received and recorded by the appropriate staff members, a generic email address can be used for absentee notifications. We request this email address be used rather than emailing individual staff members. This will ensure the notification is received by the Reception staff regardless of who is working on the day.
Methods for notifying the school of absences are:
Email: attendance@etaustralia.com
Phone: 02 4323 1233 after 8:30am
Via the COMPASS App.
When your child is absent from school and we have not been notified, an email and push notification via COMPASS will be sent to inform you of their absence which you are able to reply to.
COVID-19, Plus Any Illness and School Attendance
ET Australia follows NSW Health guidelines to minimise COVID-19 transmission, keeping schools open and the community safe.
NSW Health advice is that if a student is unwell and has any symptoms, they should always test for COVID-19. If the test comes back negative for COVID-19, the student should still not return to school until the student no longer has any symptoms, or NSW Health advises that it is important that students do not attend school if they are unwell. Covid-19, other viruses, influenza, common colds, and stomach bugs can all be contagious. Health advice is that students who are sick should always stay home to rest and recover and avoid putting other students and staff at risk of getting sick. Students who present with symptoms at school will be sent home immediately and will not be able to return to school until they no longer have symptoms.
Request for Student Leave
The Department of Education’s requirement for school attendance also affects opportunities for families to take holidays during school terms. Some schools are withdrawing the option of families taking students out of school for holidays. ETASC is flexible, but the Minister of Education requires us to ensure all student leave during term time be approved by the college Principal in advance. A Student Leave Request form is available from reception and needs to be completed 4 weeks prior to the planned absence from school.
Please contact the college office on 02 4323 1233 if you have any further queries about holidays during school terms.
ET Australia Secondary College – A Non-Smoking High School
ETASC is a non-smoking secondary college for ALL students and staff – this includes the use of vape pens and e-cigarettes.
Students who are caught smoking cigarettes, vape pens or e-cigarettes during school hours will have their cigarettes, vape pens or e-cigarettes confiscated and destroyed. Parents/carers will be contacted to inform them of this behaviour.
Advice from NSW Health clearly outlines that it is illegal to sell cigarettes, e-cigarettes and vape pens, or accessories to, or buy these products on the behalf of a person under 18 years of age.
Please visit https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/e-cigarettes.aspx for more information from NSW Health.
Any student smoking during school hours will be in breach of school rules and will be treated the same way as any other breach of school rules. Repeat offenders will be placed on a school contract that will stipulate the behaviour required to maintain their enrolment at the college. The school contract with the student will include the provision of access to quit-smoking programs and access to the college psychologist to develop strategies to use instead of smoking during the school day. Breaching the school contract will result in the student’s expulsion from the college.
Opal Cards
The Department of Transport issues OPAL Cards and schools are no longer involved in the issue and re-issue of this free service for school children. Parents/carers are now responsible to follow up with errors or lost and stolen cards. Students are advised not to put OPAL cards near phones or other disabled cards.
For more information on OPAL Cards please refer to the College Handbook relevant to you:
Contacting Students in Class Time
Please do not phone your child during class time, they will be tempted to answer which is very disruptive to the class. Their phone should be off and out of sight. Parents/carers who need to contact their child during school hours are asked to do so by calling the college office on 4323 1233 or wait until break times.
Banned items – Reminder
Students are prohibited from bringing certain items to school:
- Chewing gum
- Aerosol cans – deodorant etc.
- Knives
- Liquid paper
- Permanent markers
- Laser devices
- Metal or opaque drink bottles
- Cigarettes
- e-cigarettes or vape pens
- Cigarette lighters or matches
If students bring these items to school, they will be confiscated.
If students continue to bring these items to school appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the consequences for breaches of the expected behaviours outlined at enrolment and in the Years 7 to 10 College Handbook and Years 11 and 12 College Handbook.
The Possession of Gel Blasters and their Presence in Schools
New South Wales Police and the Department of Education have requested ETASC circulate the following important information about the possession of gel blasters and their presence in schools.
Gel Guns or Gel Blasters are lifelike ‘toy’ guns that closely resemble firearms. They fire gel balls and can be very difficult to differentiate from a real firearm. They are classified as air guns under NSW law, and gel balls are classified as ammunition.
It is a crime to possess a Gel Gun in NSW unless you have a firearms licence, even if it was purchased online or legally in another state. It is also a crime to bring a Gel Gun to school.
There is a potential for injury if a person is struck by gel pellet ammunition, and understandably, students and staff may become frightened and distressed if they believe a firearm has been brought into a school.
If a student is found to have a Gel Gun at school, the firearm will be confiscated, and the Police will be contacted immediately on 000. The student could be arrested and charged with possession of a firearm. Parents/Carers may also be held liable as per section 82 of the Firearms Act.
Medication Taken at School
Alterations have been made to our administration of the student medication process.
In conjunction with our First Aid and Medications Policy, parents/carers are now required to complete an Authorisation for Administration of Student Medication form for any medication you would like your child to take at school.
Parents/carers will also be required to provide the medication in its original packaging which has the Doctor’s instructions on the label.
Please contact the school office if you would like any further information or require a form to be sent home.
For more information on medication taken at school please refer to the College Handbook relevant to you:
Buddy Update
During 2022 ETASC has worked on successfully completing the competency tasks required to achieve accreditation with Dogs Connect. We have been awarded accreditation for 2023. This means that ETASC has:
- demonstrated competency in the minimum level, or above, of training required
- demonstrated a sustainable approach to authentically building connections with a well-being dog with people and places within our school community
- been recognised for our level of practice and are expected to continue to provide a healthy, balanced, and sustainable working life for our school well-being dog
Buddy, our school support and wellbeing dog, is working in classrooms at both campuses on a flexible timetable so she can attend different classes and all year groups. The Dogs Connect program is a whole-school wellbeing program that provides the ongoing-training and framework for Buddy in our community. Our school support and wellbeing dog is a much loved and important member of our community. We encourage anyone who would like to know more about this program to visit the Dogs Connect website: https://dogsconnect.net.au
Our team of staff who lead this program are all trained and we have enrolled several more staff in the training program for 2023. We assure the community that this program will not involve anyone who does not wish to be involved. Buddy is having a positive impact on many people in our school, and we plan and arrange her time so the connection with Buddy will be offered on a wide variety of levels.
School Lockers
Lockers are provided at no cost for students to store their school bags to improve security, and work, health and safety. Students are asked to clean out their lockers at the end of every term. Items left in lockers at the end of each term will be discarded. If you value the contents of your locker, please take it with you.
Students are encouraged to keep lockers always locked, even when empty. We are keen to prevent unauthorised access to your locker and/or to have other people placing objects in lockers that do not belong there.
Enrolments
Enrolment places are still available for the current year groups in 2023:
- Year 7
- Year 11
- Year 12
Places are not available in our other year groups, and a waiting list is in place.
Please contact the school office if you would like to make an enrolment enquiry or would like more information.
Lunch Orders – Lunch Options for 2023
Students in Year 7 and Year 8 will have the following lunch order options in 2023:
- Monday – McDonald’s
- Tuesday – Sushi
- Wednesday – Subway
- Thursday – no option available due to PDHPE practical lessons
- Friday – Chips and gravy
Noodles will no longer be available for purchase from the school during break times. Students who regularly purchase noodles from the school will now have to purchase them from Woolworths before school or bring in their own from home.
Year 9, Year 10, Year 11, and Year 12 students will have permission to buy food from the food court in the Imperial Centre for the first 15 minutes of each break every day. The school staff provide student supervision in the food court during breaks.
As soon as students have received their food and drinks, they must make their way directly to Kibble Park. During breaks in Kibble Park, students are always supervised by school staff.
Students will only be permitted to enter the food court if they are purchasing food or drinks. If students go to the food court and do not purchase food or drinks, they will be banned from accessing this privilege.
Years 11 & 12 students are also permitted to go to Shop 3 Café unsupervised to buy food and drink during breaks. As soon as students have received their food and drinks, they must make their way directly to Kibble Park. During breaks in Kibble Park, students are always supervised by school staff.
Duke of Edinburgh Award
ETASC will be providing students in Years 8 to 12 the opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award in 2023. The Duke of Edinburgh is a non-competitive self-development program available to all young people, which encourages them to set and achieve goals at a level appropriate to their needs and aspirations.
There are four sections to develop: skills, voluntary service, physical recreation, and adventurous journey. Throughout participation in this award, students develop skills in decision-making, teamwork, organisation, communication, perseverance, self-confidence, leadership, resilience, and citizenship. These are highly sought-after employability skills and great for the holistic development of young people.
An email will be sent out early in Term 1 with details on how students who are ready for a challenge can sign up to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award. An information afternoon/night is planned for Thursday, 2nd March, at the Years 7-10 Campus to answer further questions.
Bronze Award
This program is open to students in Year 8 or 14 years of age. It involves completing physical exercise, learning a skill, and volunteering service to the community over 3-6 months.
In 2022, several students successfully participated in various hikes throughout the year. This included two-day hikes and overnight camping. Students developed their navigation, campcraft, teamwork and leadership skills in a variety of environments.
Silver Duke of Edinburgh
This program is open to students 15 years and over. It involves completing physical exercise, learning a skill, and volunteering service to the community over 6-12 months.
In 2021 participants enjoyed completing two adventurous journeys. These involved a day of kayaking, two days of hiking, and two nights of camping. Students grew in their resilience as they were challenged in new environments.
This will be available again in 2023. Those enrolled into the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award will participate in a day hike, followed by time at the pool to check their swimming ability before heading out on their 2-night, 3-day Adventurous Journeys.
Key dates
Bronze and Silver Award Information Afternoon (2:30pm) and Evening (6:00pm) – Thursday, 2nd March 2023. (Term 1, Week 5)
How to complete the paperwork, set goals and approach your assessor workshop – Term 1 Week 5 and Week 6
Forms and permission notes due by 29th March 2023. (term 1 Week 9):
1. Online permission note to complete the award (Online Record Book)
2. Permission note to undertake the award with ETASC
3. Participant Award Plan
4. Adventurous Journey Volunteer Commencement Gide
Additional notes are due by Wednesday, 5th April 2023. (Term 1 Week 10):
1. Skill Volunteer Commencement Guide
2. Physical Recreation Volunteer Commencement Guide
3. Voluntary Service Volunteer Commencement Guide
Hike 1 Tuesday 2nd May 2023 (3 hours) (Term 2 Week 2)
Hike 2 Tuesday 6th June 2023 (4 hours) (Term 2 Week 7)
Hike 3 Tuesday 20th June 2023 (All day) (Term 3 Week 2)
Hike 4 Tuesday 25th July 2023 (All Day) (Term 3 Week 2)
Hike 5 Wednesday 9th – Thursday 10th August 2023 (Practise Overnight) (Term 3 Week 4)
Hike 6 Wednesday 23rd – Thursday 24th August 2023 (Qualifying Overnight) (Term 3 Week 6)
Staff Changes
Sophie Gamble is returning from maternity leave and will continue her Learning Enrichment Teaching role working with Year 8 students.
Joanna Way will be joining us as a Science Teacher at the Years 7-10 Campus, 4 days per week.
Contact details for all members of school staff are in the College Handbook relevant to you:
Years 7-10 News
Maths Tutoring
Every Thursday, we run maths tutoring for students in Years 7-10 from 2.30pm-3.30pm. Please let the school know if your child needs to leave early for transport.
We focus on basic skills but allow the opportunity and time to discuss classwork if required. It is a fun, safe learning space where students can ask questions and work independently or within a small group with a teacher.
Free After School Tutoring
Assessment Week will be held during Week 5 for all year groups. Students in Years 9 and 10 will be completing a separate KLA examination each day with revision time in class. Years 7 and 8 will be in their timetable classes, completing their assessment tasks. Adjustments and support will be available to students who qualify. If you know you will not be present during this time, please contact Assistant Principal Lachlan Scott. If you have any questions, please contact the Curriculum Coordinator Kimberley Wheeler.
Tuesday:
- Extension Maths (Year 10 students intending to complete the HSC) 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
- Literacy tutoring 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm Thursday
- Extension Science (Year 10 students intending to complete the HSC) 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
- Numeracy tutoring 2:30pm to 3:30pm
All extra-curricular or tutoring classes are free.
Learning Enrichment Opportunities
ETASC offers free tutoring for all students.
For students who are identified as needing extra assistance with:
- Reading – ETASC offers the MacqLit reading program
- Mathematics – ETASC offers the QuickSmart program. We also offer consolidation of classwork and after-school tutoring.
- Writing – ETASC offers English tutoring and consolidation of classwork.
We strongly encourage all students to take advantage of our free tutoring.
Literacy Tutoring is offered on a Tuesday afternoon from 2:30 to 3:30 pm. Melanie McDonald, a Learning Enrichment Teacher and SPELD NSW-endorsed literacy tutor, is facilitating Literacy Tutoring this year. The Term 2, 3 and 4 Literacy Tutoring will be based on a Direct Instruction program called Expressive Writing.
Expressive Writing focuses on developing the following subskills:
- Writing clearly (using pronouns with clear referents and including details that are necessary for clarity).
- Writing with a variety of sentences (sentences that begin with a dependent clause, sentences that contain a series and some compound sentences).
- Writing what people say and appropriately paragraphing their conversations; and
- Editing for clarity, punctuation, paragraphs, and sentence forms.
Each Literacy Tutoring session includes the following: a skill development component that includes three to five exercises designed to teach specific subskills and editing skills that students will need to write passages and a passage writing exercise in which students apply these subskills. Students will also be provided with opportunities to apply these skills to writing passages for their English and HSIE classwork.
Gifted and Talented Program 2023
This year at ET Australia Secondary College, the GAT program will continue to offer our students critical and creative learning opportunities. Our aim is to provide educational opportunities that enrich and extend gifted and talented students, fostering a lifelong love of learning. Our curriculum for gifted students is specifically designed to challenge advanced learners and provide experiences that require critical thinking, problem-solving, independent study skills, communication, and persistence in the face of challenges. When engaged in high quality gifted services, students will develop their unique abilities and maintain their passion for learning. These activities provide opportunities for the student to engage in tasks that require higher order thinking.
Lessons incorporating Maths, English, History, Social Justice, PBL (Project Based Learning), Creative Arts and STEM are offered to our students. Typically, students that fall into the category of gifted and talented following assessment, teacher recommendation and observation at the school are presented with the opportunity to extend their thinking beyond regular classes. As well as GATS withdrawal lessons, competitions, including Maths Olympiad, The Big Science Competition, CSIRO computational thinking, creative writing and art competitions, are offered at ET Australia Secondary College to extend our students.
These competitions provide access to enrichment opportunities, particularly in the student’s area of strength and interest.
ETASC’s Gifted Program does not substitute or replace the excellent classroom instruction and enrichment already provided in class. Instead, it provides options compatible with the needs, abilities, and interests of gifted learners.
Years 7 – 10 Meditation and mindful colouring
Once a week, students will be given the choice to participate in meditation or mindful colouring to give them the opportunity to slow down and be present before tackling their busy schoolwork.
NAPLAN
In March 2023, the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) will be completed by students in Year 7 and Year 9. NAPLAN has the support of all State and Territory Education Ministers and will assess the literacy and numeracy skills of students across Australian schools.
The results of the tests will provide valuable information to schools about what each student can do and will be used to support teaching and learning programs. Parents/Carers will receive a report indicating their child’s level of achievement. Each student’s level of achievement will be reported against the national minimum standard.
The online format allows for ‘tailored testing,’ where the test adapts to a student’s performance and asks questions that match their achievement level.
Students in each year level start with the same set of questions, which can then branch into a different set of questions based on their responses. The online test will direct students to questions that are appropriate to their ability. This test design will allow students to demonstrate their literacy and numeracy skills. Students may find online assessment more engaging, encouraging them to persevere with the tests.
Students will complete their online tests on the following dates:
Wednesday 15 March: Writing and Reading
Thursday 16 March: Conventions of Language
Friday 17 March: Numeracy
Students will be given catch-up opportunities until Monday, 27 March.
More information about adjustments and support will be sent home via COMPASS.
Positive Behaviour Management and Rewards
ETASC’s Positive Student Behaviour Reward system includes short-term, medium-term, and long-term rewards. Reward days once a semester are the pinnacle reward of this system.
Short-Term Rewards – Fortnightly Basis
Short-term rewards will occur on a fortnightly basis and be awarded to one student from each class based on their behaviour in the previous two weeks. Teachers will consider the number of positive behaviour reports or in-class points awarded, the student’s attendance during this time and any noticeable changes in a student’s behaviour. Students will be informed of their positive award in a manner that is comfortable to them – during the whole school assembly, stage assembly, class time or on an individual basis.
Short-term rewards include, but are not limited to:
- Chocolates
- Free lunch – pizza etc.
- Books
- Trinkets, toys, stationery etc.
Medium-Term Rewards – Term Basis
The accumulation of positive behaviour reports over a term will earn students medium-term rewards. A schedule of rewards will be provided to the students at the beginning of each term. The accumulation of positive behaviour reports over the term will earn student rewards.
The number of positive behaviour reports required to achieve specific medium-term rewards includes:
# Of Positive Behaviour Reports Reward:
- 25 – Qualifies student to attend semester reward day
- 30 – Listen to music during class time for one week
- 40 – 5-minute early mark at the end of the school day for one week
- 50 – Free lunch order to the value of $10
Long-Term Rewards – Semester Basis
The long-term reward for sustained positive student behaviour is an invitation to attend the reward days held at the end of each semester. Students will be invited to attend our reward day if they have accumulated at least 25 positive behaviour reports during the semester. If a student is invited to a rewards day and engages in negative behaviour before the event, their invitation can be revoked. Reward day activities are intended to be fun days with activities that students want to participate in.
Our reward days so far have included:
- Go-karting
- Jet boats
- Laser tag
- Mini Golf
In determining whether students are entitled to attend a reward day the following will be considered:
- The number of positive and negative behaviour reports a student has received.
- School attendance – students need to maintain a regular pattern of attendance.
- Outstanding school fees – A student’s school fees need to be no more than 1 month in arrears to be eligible to attend reward days.
- School Contract – if a student has been placed on a school contract, they are deemed ineligible to attend reward days. Exceptions on a case-by-case basis may be considered by the Assistant Principal but this is not negotiable.
If parents/carers have questions regarding the positive behaviour system, we welcome feedback and questions so please contact the Assistant Principal.
Years 7-8 News
Stage 4 Spelling and Ninja Mathematics
Year 7 will be participating in a spelling program reviewing the fundamental spelling rules and words.
Year 8 will be participating in ninja mathematics, reviewing timetables and practising mental mathematics skills.
Years 9-10 News
SYNC – Skills You Need Consolidating
This year ETASC will continue with SYNC for Year 9 and Year 10 students. Each lesson aims to help students establish and practice the fundamental skills necessary for further education and work. These practical skills enable students to practise problem-solving, critical thinking and group work.
Classes include:
- Nutrition – properly reading food labels, budgeting, planning, food wastage and cooking skills;
- Computer Skills – desktop usage, using Microsoft Office, typing skills, film editing and website building;
- Careers – resume writing, cover letters, how to research jobs, skills selection and how to apply for jobs;
- Independence Days – car maintenance, practical living skills, household upkeep.
These units will help to round out the student’s employability skills.
Years 9 & 10 Student Assessment Handbooks
Student Assessment Handbooks are available on the school website and are important documents for Years 9 & 10 students to read to be informed about their Record of School Achievement (RoSA) requirements.
Within the handbook, there is information on how to successfully complete Year 10, the grading scale for each subject, what an ‘N’ Determination Award (N Award) is and how to avoid one, study skills and who to talk to if you need help.
We encourage all Years 9 & 10 students and parents/carers to read these documents thoroughly to ensure they are informed of the expectations for Years 9 & 10.
Click here to read the Year 9 Assessment Handbook
Click here to read the Year 10 Assessment Handbook
Stage 5 DEAR
Years 9 & 10 will be participating in DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) twice a week, reading topical new articles selected by the teachers to encourage them to read mindfully and to be engaged in current issues.
HSC Numeracy and Literacy Minimum Standard online test
Year 10 will be participating in the Numeracy and Literacy Minimum Standard online test this year. Students are given multiple chances throughout the year to complete these tests and obtain their level 3.
More information about the tests and adjustments will be sent home via COMPASS.
Years 11-12 News
Curriculum 2023
The staff and students at the Year 11 and 12 campus are looking forward to welcoming the new Year 11 students starting this year. It will be a big change for them with longer hours at school, an increased workload and the expectation to complete homework. To assist with this transition ETASC offers after-school study sessions from 3pm to 4pm where teachers are available to help students with their homework and study.
Both Year 11 and 12 enjoy participating in a variety of programs to assist them with their studies for 15 minutes after lunch. They include:
Study Skills
Throughout the year, students complete a study skills booklet. It assists them to set goals and create study timetables. They learn effective ways to study and write summary notes. They are also taught time management tips and methods to get organised.
Wellbeing Session
During this program, students reflect on ways to improve their mental health. They gain valuable tools to overcome procrastination, increase motivation, manage stress, reduce negative self-talk and cope with anxiety.
Roadmap
These sessions assist students to understand the meaning of key HSC verb directives such as outline, explain, analyse and evaluate. They then practise writing short answers ensuring they are using the correct structure and terminology.
Year 12 Mentorship Program
Each Year 12 student has been assigned a staff member to be their mentor. Last term, students met to set goals they wanted to achieve in their HSC and identified strategies to achieve them. This mentorship program will continue into Term 1. Students will receive a booklet to record their academic goals for the term and meet with their mentor to plan steps to help them achieve them again. Mentors will meet with the students to encourage them to keep working on those steps. They will also help students to reflect on what strategies are helping them and what things need to change to ensure they meet their academic goals.
HSC Minimum Standards-Intervention
In order to receive the HSC all students need to receive a level 3 in the HSC Minimum Standards Test. There are three tests, reading, writing and numeracy. Any student who has not received a level 3 yet will be given the opportunity to sit these exams this Term.
Year 12 Practice HSC-Week 9 & 10
To help Year 12 prepare for their Trial HSC exams in Term 3. Students will have the opportunity to sit shorter mini-style exams at the end of Term 1. They will be able to use their summary notes and get feedback. This will give students a taste of what the HSC exams will be like in a way that builds confidence in achieving them.
Stage 6 Student Assessment Handbook
The Stage 6 Student Assessment Handbook is an important document for Stage 6 students to read to be informed about the HSC course requirements.
Within the handbook, there is information on how to successfully complete Stage 6, what an ‘N’ Determination Award (N Award) is and how to avoid one, study skills and who to talk to if you need help.
We encourage all Stage 6 students and parents/carers to read this document thoroughly to ensure they are informed of the expectations for Stage 6.
Year 12 Incursion
Year 12 Student Elevation Incursion 15th February 11.15am to 12.15pm
To help Year 12 students start the year with a positive mindset, a workshop run by elevate has been booked. This seminar will help students to set goals and learn techniques for self-motivation. They will be taught the valuable skill of breaking goals into manageable tasks and examine the role of self-efficacy in performance.
Year 11 Incursion
Year 11 Student Elevation Incursion 15th February 9.45am to 10.45am
To help Year 11 transition into Stage 6, a workshop run by elevate has been booked. This seminar will equip students with the skills to be independent learners. They will assist students to learn how to use their subject syllabuses to frame their study and will be taught how to write, organise and review study notes.
Quick Links
ET Australia Secondary College Term Dates
Year | Term | Year | Start Date | Finish Date |
2023 | Term 1 | 7,8,11 & 12 | Tuesday 31 January | Thursday 6 April |
2023 | Term 1 | 9 & 10 | Wednesday 1 February | Thursday 6 April |
2023 | Term 2 | All Years | Wednesday 26 April | Friday 30 June |
2023 | Term 3 | All Years | Tuesday 18 July | Thursday 21 September |
2023 | Term 4 | All Years | Tuesday 10 October | Tuesday 19 December |
ET Australia Secondary College Years 7 to 10 Handbook