Victorian Essential Learning Standards
In 2005 the Victorian Government introduced The Victorian Essential Learning Standards (VELS) in order to improve student learning by setting standards and improving student reports to parents. Tallarook Primary School plan and report according to VELS.
These standards are set in three main strands or areas. They are:
Knowledge and understanding from the key subjects of English, Science, Mathematics, Humanities, Languages and The Arts
Physical, personal and social skills such as being active and healthy, developing self confidence, managing personal learning and working with others
Other essential skills that apply across curriculum areas such as thinking, design, problem solving, communicating, and using information and communications technology.
These areas are all important to the development of a well-rounded and confident young person. They have often been part of the school experience of young people, but have not always been linked closely with traditional subject areas. Bringing them together emphasises their value and relevance in student learning.
Standards built up over time
Victoria has had curriculum and assessment standards in schools for many years. There has been a strong view that what had to be taught in schools at times made the program too crowded. The new Standards give schools more time to concentrate on differing priorities depending on the age of the child and their stage of education.
The new Standards identify what is essential for students to know and be able to do as they move through the different stages of their schooling. The Standards steadily become more challenging as they develop through to the end of Year 10.
Under the new Standards, in the Early Years (Prep to Year 4) there will continue to be a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy. In addition, there will be a greater emphasis on health, physical education and interpersonal development.
As students move through primary school, additional areas from the three strands will be introduced into the student program, areas such as science, information and communications technology, and civics and citizenship. As new areas are introduced, the key areas of literacy and numeracy will continue to be emphasised and improved.
By the end of primary school the Victorian Essential Learning Standards will provide a clear bridge to secondary school. The Standards provide strong foundations for students to make the significant move from primary to secondary school. Teachers in primary and secondary schools will also continue to have a common basis from which to talk to each other about the strengths and challenges for each child.
Reporting to Parents
In 2005 we introduced individual Student Portfolios. These provide families with a record of student progress across all areas of the curriculum. They are sent home twice a year with our formal written report.
To give parents the very best opportunity to be involved with their child’s education, we conduct formal Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews throughout the year and send home comprehensive School Reports.
Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews
End of Second Term
End of School Year by arrangement
School Reports
End of Second Term (mid year)
End of School Year
In 2007, Tallarook Primary School implemented the ‘Student Report Card’ a Department of Education and Early Childhood Development requirement. We use Student Portfolios, Individual Learning Plans, informal interviews, written reports and formal interviews to communicate student progress in a timely and comprehensive manner. We believe that correct reporting procedures need a balance between departmental requirements and parental needs and that reports are timely, informative and useful to all parties.
Note: At any stage during the year, parents are most welcome to request an interview with the teacher or Principal to discuss their child’s progress.
