Senior School (Years 10, 11 and 12)
Years 10, 11 and 12 are the Senior School years at Avila.
Early senior school is enhanced by study skills sessions, exploration of career pathways, opportunities for extension, community service, as well as choice and breadth and depth of studies and examinations. Students are able to take on more leadership opportunities and become Peer Supporters.
A more adult relationship between staff and students is encouraged to further enhance learning and also to prepare students for life beyond secondary school. A Monash University study has cited Avila students as being among the best prepared for making the transition from secondary school to first year university. Such a commendation reflects the relationship developed between teachers and students and the emphasis on independence and personal responsibility.
We cater for both the academic and the workplace oriented student. Academically strong students undertake one or more VCE subject either to enhance their ENTER score or as a method of easing the transition to a full VCE.
Students more focused on post secondary employment also benefit greatly and, through the VCAL program, develop intensive work related skills through practical experience.
An extensive range of VCE subjects and the VCAL program are offered at years 11 and 12. VET subjects are part of VCE or VCAL. Course advisors work closely with students to provide an insight into the diverse range of career pathways and to assist with suitable curriculum choices. Monitoring of a student's progress involves conversations between teachers, year level co ordinators, parents and the student. These are supplemented by regular written reviews. Parent teacher interviews are with both the student and the parent as this partnership is extremely important at Avila.
Continued involvement within the Avila community is considered of paramount importance at this level in order to achieve overall balance. It also helps keep in perspective the pressures of study. At Year 10, one week is devoted to practical service in the community. Senior students are involved in leadership roles, social justice, participation in sport and help to offer general encouragement to younger students.
