Learning Enrichment

The Learning Enrichment Department has a role to work along-side teachers to differentiate and enrich the learning of students at The Geelong College, both in the mainstream class, the principle place of learning, as well as to provide opportunities, programs and activities designed to meet identified student needs. A major function of the Learning Enrichment Department is to develop and maintain open communication with students, parents and staff. Selected students will be invited to join a learning support class following, or as a result of formal assessment.

Years 9 and 10 - Skills Enrichment

This small group program is designed to provide a broadened platform for entry into the culture and language of the subject disciplines. The activities, tasks and texts presented to the small group will promote development in reading, writing and oral communication skills across core and many elective subject areas.

Emphasis will also be upon providing time and guidance for students to plan, organise and structure their subject specific products. Study, revision and examination skills will also be explicitly taught and practised. Learning Enrichment classes will contain elements which will enable students to work towards the goal of becoming more independent, creative and metacognitive thinkers.

This class will run seven sessions per fortnight, in place of one elective. We understand the significance of participating in the elective program, as it is in these that students often find areas of interest and develop their passions. Therefore, the elective to be replaced will be discussed with you before any final decision is made about taking part in the Year 9 or 10 Learning Skills Enrichment program.

Places within this program will be limited to those students who meet criteria following assessment by the Learning Enrichment Department and have demonstrated they are committed to working towards developing their abilities. 

Year 11 - Breaking through to VCE

Breaking Through to VCE is designed to assist students to develop independence in their studies. The Learning Enrichment teacher will guide students as they work towards becoming independent learners.

The program will take place within a small group of students, for 4 sessions per fortnight, in place of some private study sessions. The remaining private study sessions in the student’s timetable will enable your child to also experience supervised silent private study in the same way other Year 11 students do.

Regular Learning Skills Enrichment, as well as Private Study sessions will provide the opportunity for students to develop relationships with students and staff, and provide guidance, encouragement and advice to students, both in terms of their organisation and general approach to their learning. As young adults, the Year 11 students will have the opportunity to guide the tone and content of the weekly sessions; most typically around setting goals they wish to achieve. This may include:

  • refinement of study techniques

  • further development of content understandings

  • improved organisation practices and study routines

  • to connect with resources and staffing to assist particular areas

  • general trouble shooting

  • strategies for planning and refining tasks

  • tips for procrastination

The Teacher working with your child will be a resource for your child and will enrich the support also offered by subject teachers, Head of House and that of our Student Care group.

Places in this program will be limited to those students who meet the criteria as determined by assessment, teacher reports and past performances. Those students meeting the criteria will be invited to participate in the course. The classes will run during scheduled Year 11 Private Study periods. 

Year 12 - Academic Mentor Program

Eligible students will be invited to participate in this program.

The Academic Mentor will offer regular support to year 12 students as they undertake their studies. Each student will be allocated a Mentor to meet on a weekly basis. Depending on timetable implications, students may meet 1:1 with their mentor or in teams of up to 3 students. The time allocated is from 20 to 60 minutes each week depending on the team size.

The goal of these sessions is to initially develop a strong relationship of mutual respect and trust. This purpose of the session is to provide guidance, encouragement and advice to students, both in terms of their organisation and general approach to their learning. As young adults, the Year 12 students will drive the tone and content of the weekly sessions; most typically around setting goals they wish to achieve. This may include:

  • refinement of study techniques

  • improved organisation practices and study routines

  • to connect with resources and staffing to assist particular areas

  • general trouble shooting

  • strategies for planning and refining tasks

  • tips for procrastination

The Academic Mentor will be a resource for your child and will enrich the support also offered by subject teachers, Head of House and that of our Student Care group.