Recently we witnessed an insightful interview on ABC Q&A program, with students and professionals on the challenges that are facing students, particuarly those in their final years of schooling. It was important to hear their perspective, both of concern and optimism and what this experience is teaching them.
They also provided some suggestions in what the government may consider as they tackle the uncertainty of their futures, expressing a lack of transparency and information is causing stress and anxiety for students. Watch the full episode by clicking on the link below:
Q&A Panellists: Norman Swan, Aus. Research Alliance for Children and Youth and Coronacast presenter; Anthea Rhodes, Paediatrician and child health researcher; Fiona Russell, Paediatrician and epidemiologist; Petria Houvardas, Year 12 student from Sydney; and Arth Tuteja, Year 11 student from Melbourne. Interviewed by Virginia Trioli.
VicSRC Launch a Mental Health Pledge
There is no doubt we are currently in the midst of a student mental health crisis this year. A few weeks ago members of the VicSRC Executive Committee met with Minister for Education, James Merlino to discuss the challenges for students.
Most of the actions students suggested are out of the hands of DET, which is why
VicSRC launched a Mental Health Pledge, asking individual schools to commit to as many asks as they can.
Following their meeting with Minister Merlino, he announced on Facebook,
"In the face of uncertainty through the pandemic, we’re determined to support our students however we can. That’s why today we are announcing that we will deliver the Considering Educational Disadvantage process to make sure every single VCE and VCAL student is assessed fairly.
We successfully did it last year. And we will do it again.
We know this lockdown has meant uncertainty around the timing of the GAT as well ─ so alongside our special consideration, we’re moving the GAT to Thursday 12 August to ensure schools have enough time to set up the test and keep everyone COVIDSafe.
I want every year 12 student confident that their VCE and VCAL results at the end of the year are a true reflection of their effort. The impact of the pandemic on every student’s individual circumstance will rightly be taken into account in their final results ─ to give every student in Victoria the best chance of success."
See our article on announcements from VCAA for information on what is happening over the next few weeks for VCE/VCAL and VET students.
