Q: What will happen to the programs that are for gifted children or children that struggle in a mainstream high school in the coming years? Are they expected to fit into a “one-size-fits-all industrial education” from the past? Bec, Shepparton
A: Greater Shepparton College will provide new opportunities and specialised support for all students, including gifted students as well as those who have faced challenges in mainstream schools.
The school will offer all VCE subjects and a broad range of VET offerings. This builds on the core subjects that have always been important to students in Shepparton. Our school will offer an unprecedented choice for every child to explore their passions and open pathways for the jobs of the future.
Students who are gifted and talented will be supported in a number of ways. They will have access to wider subject choice as well as options to extend their learning in core and elective subjects for those who want to challenge themselves. There will also be opportunities for Year 10 students to fast track into VCE.
State-of-the-art facilities are part of the new school design, and will support students who wish to extend themselves. For example, students wanting to pursue their passion for drama will benefit from our brand new performing arts space. Students will also have access to specialty labs for robotics and sports sciences.
Students who receive additional wellbeing support at their current school will be equally or more supported at the new school. Our staff are working with primary schools and current secondary schools to achieve this.
We will also implement the successful ‘house’ model to create a sense of belonging among students. As part of this, each student will be assigned a learning mentor from Year 7, who will be the first point of contact for parents and caregivers to discuss any concerns, including about their child’s health and wellbeing, throughout their time at our school.
Q: I live three doors from the super-school site. How can 240 car parks be enough for more than 300 teachers, office admin staff and then the Year 12s? Marjory Madden, Shepparton
A: Sufficient car parking will be provided at the new school for all staff.
The Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) is working with a consulting firm and Greater Shepparton City Council to undertake a traffic management study of movements within the new school precinct, including the requirement for bus services, parent drop-off zones and parking needs.
Students will be encouraged to travel to school by bus and can take advantage of free travel assistance recently announced for students attending the new school until it opens on a single campus.
As the planning progresses, the VSBA will further consult with Greater Shepparton City Council and VicRoads.
More about Greater Shepparton College
Congestion concerns around new school
Teachers hushed in regards to new school concerns
Tensions flare at super school meeting
Ask Gen: Clearing up doubts about new super school