STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020 - St Michael's College, Adelaide · 12PC-04 Mr Justin Emerson LEC04 12PC-05 Ms Bridget Kearins LEC05 ... 28 January Classes Resume for Year 7 and 12 29 January

community challenge choice

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020Year 12

1community challenge choice

St Michael’s College is a Catholic school in the Lasallian tradition which is committed to the human and Christian education of the young, especially the poor, through:

CommunityWe are an inclusive and respectful community where each individual is known, valued and cared for, enabling them to feel confident to explore their curiosities, flourish and fully realise their potential.

ChallengeIndividual growth is achieved through engagement, opportunity and recognition, underpinned by a positive learning culture that is authentic, challenging and supportive.

ChoiceThrough a quality Lasallian education, inspired by the Gospel and a concern for social justice, students are empowered to better choose who they become as people, learners and leaders in the world.

A quality Lasallian education “is realised by offering a community and personalised environment where individuals can flourish as human beings and where they are open to hope and have a positive sense of life.”

Br Alvaro

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10)

Mission and Vision Table of Contents

Mission and Vision ii

Welcome 3

Context and Tradition 4

Staff� 6

Year�12�Pastoral�Staff� 8

General College Information 9

Important Dates for Year 12 10

Learning and Management System: SEQTA 14

College�Leaders�2020� 18

The St Michael’s College Year 12 Tradition 19

Year 12 General Information 20

College Awards 37

Student Support - Student Services 39

Consequences for Non-Completion of Work 41

Conclusion 42

3St Michael’s College STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020 Year 122

WelcomeYear 12 at St Michael’s College

Welcome to what will be a combination of your most difficult, challenging, rewarding, anxious - but assuredly memorable year of schooling.

The staff of the College wish you every success for the 10 months ahead, and hope that this booklet will provide useful insights and relevant information as to the particular nature of Year 12 studies.

Year 12 represents the culmination of your schooling and provides pathways for your future. Whether your own individual interests and talents guide you towards employment or tertiary study, we hope that your final year will not only be satisfying, but also provide the platform for future success.

Please read the contents of this booklet and enter Year 12 in the full knowledge of what your final year entails. Only in this way can you hope to be successful.

Wishing you all the very best for 2020.

Mr Sam Kitschke

Year 12 Director Ms Ady Webb

Year 12 Assistant Director


Context and Tradition

Crest

Glorious Cross - symbol of salvation and resurrection

Laurel leaves - symbol of reward and achievement

Shield - symbol of strength, faith and fortitude

Star of Bethlehem - symbol of the sign of the faith

Context and Tradition

The De La Salle BrothersThe origins of Lasallian education date back to the 17th Century to French priest St John Baptist de La Salle, founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools (De La Salle Brothers).

Born of wealthy parents who valued education, De La Salle responded to the needs of impoverished boys by establishing schools that were open to all, including the socially and economically deprived. Based on the ideal - to provide education for young people that reflects the values of Jesus Christ - De La Salle inspired a tradition that now spans over 80 countries.

John Baptist de La Salle was canonised in 1900, and in 1950 Pope Pius XII named him Patron of Teachers.

The Brothers came to Australia and opened their first school in Armidale, NSW, in 1906. Since that time they have opened a number of schools throughout Australia and extended their works to New Zealand and the missions of Papua New Guinea.

Each year, the College holds a Mission Action Day (MAD) to raise funds for the Lasallian Foundation and the generosity of the St Michael’s community is well known throughout Australia and the Asia Pacific Region.

Heritage of St Michael’s CollegeSt Michael’s College was founded by the De La Salle Brothers in 1954. Classes began at Beverley with 29 boys. Due to the great efforts of the Catholic families in the Western region of Adelaide, the College rapidly expanded. By 1965 the enrolment was 780 boys and in 1967, a Senior School was developed on Lawrie Street at Henley Beach. From 1997, the Beverley Campus catered for Years 4 -7 boys and the Henley Campus Years 8 -12. In 2002 a Reception class was introduced. Beverley now caters for Reception to Year 6. In 2008 girls were enrolled for the first time in Year 8.

St Michael’s has worked in close partnership with the Sacred Heart Fathers (MSC) throughout its history and they continue to act as Chaplains to the College.


Staff Staff continued

Secondary Leadership

Principal Mr John Foley

Deputy Principal – Learning & Teaching Mrs Teresa Cimmino

Deputy Principal – Pastoral Mr John Lambert

Business Manager Mr Dominic LoBasso

Director of Mission Mr Robert Dempsey

Director of Curriculum & Assessment Ms Bron Kemp

Director of Pastoral Mr Matthew Williams

Director of Learning Technologies & Analytics Mr Ryan Fleetwood

Heads of Department/Subject Coordinators

Business Mr Hamish Redden

Design & Technology Mr Greg Cloy

Digital Technologies Mrs Maria Cardillo

Director of Music Mr Tim Donovan

Music Mr James Musci

Drama Ms Emily Burns

English Mrs Jane Sykes

Humanities Ms Catherine Pearce

Health & Physical Development Mrs Sally Nicholson

History Mr Matthew Muscat

Italian Mrs Angela Benedetti

Junior Secondary Learning Initiatives Mrs Joanne Gilmore

Mathematics Mrs Anne Finlay

Heads of Department/Subject Coordinators

PLP Coordinator Mr Lachlan Chatterton

Religious Education Mrs Patrizia Puglia

Research Project Coordinator Mr Lachlan Chatterton

Science Mr Gavin O’Reilly

Visual Arts Mrs Nicolle LeRay-Warren

Coordinators

Co-curricular Coordinator (Boys) Mr Jordan Young

Co-curricular Assistant (Girls) Ms Leanne Burton

Gifted & Talented Coordinator Mr Stratos Karnas

Learning Support Coordinator Mr Michael Balic

SACE Coordinator Mr Rocco Schirripa

VET Coordinator Mr Kevin Woolford

Student Services

Student Counsellors Ms Sarah DaviesMs Ida-Marie TullioMr Anthony Vizaniaris

Career Counsellors Ms Rose CooreyMr Anthony Vizaniaris

Pastoral Support Worker Sr Nithya

Administration Assistants Mrs Lynda WhiteMrs Bonita DorianMs Isabella BarilaMrs Brenda Trimboli


Year 12 Pastoral Staff

Pastoral Teachers & Room Numbers

12PC-01 Ms Chloe Harby LEC01

12PC-02 Ms Catherine Pearce LEC12

12PC-03 Mr Gavin O’Reilly LEC03

12PC-04 Mr Justin Emerson LEC04

12PC-05 Ms Bridget Kearins LEC05

12PC-06 Ms Stacey Moros LEC06

12PC-07 Ms Lavina Desyllas / Ms Cathy James LEC07

12PC-08 Mr Fredrick Stanislaus LEC08

12PC-09 Mr Lachlan Chatterton LEC09

12PC-10 Mr Mario Luppino LEC10

12PC-11 Mr Ned Heath LEC11

Year Level Director: Mr Sam Kitschke

Assistant Year Level Director: Mrs Ady Webb

General College Information

Uniform Shop - Dobsons Pty LtdThe College uniform can only be purchased from the Uniform Shop which is located at the Secondary Campus on Lawrie Street, Gate 4.

The shop is managed and operated by Dobsons Pty Ltd on behalf of St Michael’s College.

It is essential to arrange an appointment. Please contact staff directly on telephone 8150 2306.

The trading hours are as follows:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

8:00 am - 4:15 pm (closed between 12:30 pm - 1:00 pm)

The College DaySecondary Campus

Movement Bell 8:40 am

Pastoral 8:45 am

Lesson 1 9:00 am

Lesson 2 9:40 am

Lesson 3 10:20 am

RECESS 11:00 am

Movement Bell 11:20 am

Lesson 4 11:25 am

Lesson 5 12:05 pm

Lesson 6 12:45 pm

LUNCH 1:25 pm

Movement Bell 2:05 pm

Lesson 7 2:10 pm

Lesson 8 2:50 pm

DISMISSAL 3:30 pm

Front Office Contact Details

Monday-Friday 8:15 am - 4:45 pm

Telephone 08 8356 5966

Email [email protected]

Website www.smc.sa.edu.au

Student Absentee Line 08 8150 2323


Important Dates for Year 12Subject to change

Term 1

28 January Classes Resume for Year 7 and 12

29 January Year 7 - 12 Welcome Assembly

Elevate Education

Year 12 Parent Evening 7:00 pm LEC

5 February Year 7 - 12 Mass 9:00 am

7 February Year 12 Elevate Education

10 February Seminar Day 1

12 February Class of 2019 Academic Assembly

19 February Year 12 Mass

18 February Sports Day - SA Athletics Stadium

26 February Ash Wednesday (whole school service)

27 February MAD Launch

5 March MAD nomination forms due

9 March Adelaide Cup (Public Holiday)

11 - 13 March Retreat

25 March Year 12 Mass

3 April Mission Action Day

8 April Year 12 Assembly

9 April Years 7 - 12 Easter Prayer Service

Classes Conclude - Early Dismissal 12:45 pm


Term 2

27 April Classes resume

29 April Year 12 Mass

Parent Teacher Interviews (1)

Early Dismissal 12:45 pm

30 April Caica Cup

1 - 3 May Generations in Jazz - Mt Gambier

4 May Parent Teacher Interviews (2)


13 May Whole school Mass at Henley Campus

Feast of St John Baptist de La Salle

19 - 21 May Year 12 Drama Production

22 May MAD Quiz Night

27 May Year 12 Assembly

5 June Staff Professional Development Day (No Classes)

8 June Queen’s Birthday (Public Holiday)

9 June Years 10 - 12 and Families Photos

10 June Year 12 Breakfast

17 June Year 12 Mass

25 June Seminar Day 2

1 July Year 12 Assembly

3 July Classes Conclude - Early Dismissal 12:45 pm



Term 3

20 July Classes Resume

20 - 24 July Trial Exam Week

29 July Years 10 - 12 Academic Assembly

3 August Year 12 SACE Evening / Careers night

5 August Year 12 SATAC Grab Bags

6 August Seminar Day 3

10 August Year 12 SATAC Talk

19 August Year 12 Assembly

20 August Parent/Teacher Interviews

Whole School Closure

Senior Trinity Intercol

26 August Year 12 Mass

4 September Staff Professional Development Day - No Classes

2 September Elevate Education Production

23 September Paul Dillon Presentation Year 10 - 12

Paul Dillon Parent Session

23 September Year 12 Assembly

25 September De La Salle Day


Term 4

12 October Classes Resume

14 October Year 12 Mass

16 October Year 12 Awards Assembly

19 October SACE Oral Exams commence

22 October Year 12 Classes conclude

22 October Year 12 Graduation Mass 7:00pm

26 - 30 October Study Week

2 - 18 November SACE Exams

5 November Memorial Mass 7:00 pm

5 November Year 12 Art & Design Exhibition

28 November Graduation Ball



Learning and Management System: SEQTA

SEQTA is a collaborative teaching and learning system that connects teachers, students and parents as an interactive and supportive community. To find out more, please follow this link:

https://seqta.com.au/

All students at St Michael’s College are able to access SEQTA via their student portal, SEQTA Learn, by using their username and password. All students must access the site through the following link:

https://sta.smc.sa.edu.au/

All parents can access SEQTA to keep updated on what their child is currently working on and when assignments are due. This also allows parents to access school reports and read the daily notices in a similar interface to the students. Parents are encouraged to install the SEQTA Engage app on their Apple or Android device and enter the following:

https://pta.smc.sa.edu.au/


Once students log on, a master menu appears providing the students with their timetable and subject course material. Further to this, students can also access daily notices and directly message (Direqt Message) their teachers. DM has the capacity for the user to attach documents.

Other functionalities of SEQTA include:

Recording students daily attendance;

Communicating with parents/caregivers;

Recording student achievements and awards;

Storing teaching and learning resources;

Uploading student report cards onto the portal.



Accessing a Student Timetable via SEQTAWhen students click on the Timetable tab, the students’ individual timetable for the week will appear.


Accessing College NoticesWhen the Notices tab is selected, the notices for the desired day will appear.

Checking assignment due dates and submitting work through SEQTAWhen students select the Upcoming tab, the upcoming assessment tasks appear. Students are able to upload their assignments once they are completed; these are referred to as e-submissions.

Subject and Assessment outlines via SEQTAThe Courses tab displays an overview of the selected subject. Students are provided with a summary of the key objectives of the particular course along with a breakdown of the assessment tasks.

The Assessment tab will enable students to track their progress of completed assessments in each subject.

Direqt Messages enables students to communicate with their subject teacher and vice-versa.

Logging out of SEQTALogging out of the system is advised once the student has finished using SEQTA.


College Leaders 2020

James Dimas College Captain

Olivia Higgins College Captain

Mia Stevens-Toomey College Vice Captain

Harry Dundon College Vice Captain

Leah Seager College Vice Captain

Luis Benedetti Ryan Black Zachary Buck Kaitlyn Burns Joseph Carroll

Amelia Charles James Choimes William Foley Emily Haller Sophie Jordan

Lola Kelly Michael Laudato Oscar McCann Nimrita Ram David Roberts

Ellie Sparrow Niamh Toohey Gabriella Ward Lucas Weston

The St Michael’s College Year 12 Tradition

Student Leadership

Year 12 students are at the apex of the College. They provide the seniority by virtue of time spent in the secondary school, and they become the exemplar for student standards and behaviour. Put simply, you are the role models of the student population.

This is not a position which is to be taken lightly…

Just as any group of elite and respected individuals in any walk of life are examples, for those who follow them; the Year 12 cohort of the College should provide direction and guidance to the student body. All Year 12 students have a responsibility in this regard.

This example extends to all facets of the College life, such as uniform, grooming, attendance, punctuality, support of College events, etc.

Important also is your input on student matters. Constructive feedback can lead to positive developments so you are encouraged to communicate ideas to your Pastoral Teachers and College Leaders.

In any social organisation, there are those who take on the formal mantle of leadership. To the College Captain, Vice Captains and College Leaders, our thanks are extended in advance

for the role you will play throughout the year as you help to add an important chapter to the ongoing tradition of leadership in the College.

You are now an important contributor to the fine SMC Year 12 tradition. Make the most of this privilege and continue the outstanding contribution which can be made to your, and the College’s, reputation.

By working, playing, studying, praying and laughing together, we can achieve a great deal!

Co-Curricular Activities

It is the expectation of the College that all students will be involved in a co-curricular activity. This is your last opportunity to do so! Whether it is swimming, netball, debating, tennis, cricket, soccer, basketball, football, chess, drama or other activities offered, it is in your interests to represent the College.

This is a perfect example of how Year 12s can be role models.

Next year more than likely (as you enter the post-school world) there’ll be far fewer opportunities for you to be involved in these sort of activities so why not have one more go at something you’ve done before, or even try something completely new, while you have the chance?


Staying HealthyThere are likely to be many times throughout the year when you might feel stressed and the best way to manage this is to try to stay healthy. This includes giving attention to your diet and exercise, the amount of rest/sleep you have, making time just for yourself as well as time with friends and family. It is also important to understand the impact that social networking can have on your time and state of mind. Be careful in finding a balance in all of these areas of your life as they are all important in helping you to stay healthy.

If you are concerned about any of these elements then talk to the Year 12 Director, pastoral or subject teachers, the school counsellors or help lines such as:

Youth Health Line (Second Story) 1300 131 719

Kids Help Line 1800 551 800

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636

Lifeline 13 11 14

Crisis Care (After Hours service only) 131611

Sexual Health Line 1300 883 793

Alcohol and Drug Information Service 1300 131 340

Headspace 1800 650 890

Reach Out.Com – http://au.reachout.com

College DiaryYou are strongly encouraged to fully utilise the College Diary as a source of planning for you and as a source of communication between the school, yourself and your parents. The student movement section in the back of the diary must be used for permission to leave classes to attend other facilities.

Of special importance for Year 12 students is the section for noting your continuous assessment scores and other results. Please use this section so that you can ‘self check’ your subject results!

Year 12 Wall PlannerYou are also encouraged to use the “Year 12 Wall Planner”, which will be given out in Pastoral Care, as a means of long term planning and improved organisation.

It is suggested that you enter all due dates and key events so you and your family are able to plan your academic progress and expectations into the future.

Year 12 General Information Year 12 General Information

It is also suggested that the planner be visible in your bedroom or study, accessible to you on a daily basis.

Religious Education CommitmentsPlease make note of the following compulsory Religious Education commitments:

Seminar Day 1 10 February

Year 12 Retreat 11-13 March

Seminar Day 2 25 June

Seminar Day 3 6 August

In only the rarest and most serious circumstances will students be excused from these events which set the tone and are the cornerstone of your graduation year.

Subject ChangesIt is imperative that any student who wishes to change a subject in the weeks ahead does so through the established procedure, involving a Subject Change Form obtained from the Director of Curriculum & Assessment.

Students who move into a subject without the proper authorisation may not only default on the SACE pattern, but may fail to be registered on subject enrolment data at the SACE Board.

Impromptu or ill-considered subject changes may equally present problems for entry into particular courses and careers later in the year.

You MUST discuss the subject change as per the process outlined on the form. If you are unsure, please discuss the process with the Director of Curriculum & Assessment (Ms Bron Kemp), Mr Kitschke, a Careers Counsellor or your classroom teacher.

Once the Subject Change form is signed by a Parent and relevant Head of Department, it should be returned to Student Services for final verification and issue of a new timetable.

Consideration will only be given to subject changes which take place within the first TWO (2) weeks of Term I. If problems arise after this time, please consult your Pastoral Teacher, the Director of Curriculum & Assessment or Mr Kitschke.


Year 12 General Information

Attendance/PunctualityYear 12 students are required to be at school by 8:40 am each day (unless their timetable states otherwise, e.g. study (see below). All absences must be accounted for and parents/caregivers are expected to phone through absences by 9:30 am if possible. If prolonged absence seems likely, then Mr Kitschke needs to be contacted and required work will be gathered, and left at the front office for collection.

For students who have an extended absence from school either due to holidays or other events, please refer to the College’s Extended Absence from School Policy. While teachers try to adjust assessment tasks the onus remains with the student to negotiate the work missed with their individual teacher.

Prolonged absences due to illness should be accompanied by a doctor’s certificate and the Year Level Director contacted so work required can be forwarded. The doctor’s certificate allows for assessment changes as required by the SACE Board.

If you are late to school, scan your ID Card through the Front Office and provide a written explanation from a parent/caregiver.

UniformIn keeping with the notion of holistic growth and positive behaviours, the school uniform should be worn correctly at all times within and outside the school grounds as detailed on pages 18 and 19 of the Diary. Our presentation says much about what we feel is important, and as a result it is important that we work together on this element of our identity.

While most students wear their uniform appropriately, others may need intermittent reminding. Parental support in ensuring that students present themselves in accordance with College guidelines is essential. Jewellery, hair, makeup, nails and the tucking in of shirts are areas that often require attention. Where repeated reminders become necessary, parents will be informed and consequences may become necessary.

PE UNIFORM:

St Michael’s PE polo top

St Michael’s PE shorts

Plain white sports socks

St Michael’s cap or hat.


OPTIONAL ITEMS:

St Michael’s rugby top

St Michael’s navy track pants

St Michael’s Spray jacket

No leggings/tights are to be worn at all. Co-curricular clothing e.g football shorts, is also not to be worn.

Leaving During School HoursStudents are not permitted to leave the school grounds without signed permission from their parent/guardian, Pastoral Teacher and Year Level Director.

You must scan your ID card through the Administration Centre any time that you are leaving school early.

Any failure to use the system correctly will affect our responsibilities of Duty of Care and your parents/guardians will be contacted regarding your absence.

There will be clear consequences regarding lateness; as teachers we need every minute of every lesson in Year 12 so as to be able to teach you as well as we can, so we expect students to be on time.

If students feel unwell at school, they must report to the First Aid Room in the Administration Office. Students must not contact parents during school to pick them up. In emergency situations, students may request to make a phone call from the Year Level Director’s Office.

Mobile Phone PolicyPLEASE DO NOT CONTACT YOUR CHILD DIRECTLY.

Mobile Phones and other electronic devices are not to be used during the College day.

If students do bring these, it is entirely at their own risk. The mobile phone must be switched off and stored securely throughout the day.

Mobile phones should be stored safely, but they may not be switched on or used during school hours. Students who are found using their phone will have it confiscated and returned via a Year Level Director.

Other consequences may apply in line with normal St Michael’s behavioural processes.



BagsSchool bags must be stored in lockers and secured with a school approved padlock. From time to time lockers may be checked for student safety. For student health reasons, back packs are NOT to be carried during the day. Small PE bags may be used to carry books and PE uniforms. These procedures are in place to comply with Occupational Health and Safety laws and provide for the safety and comfort of all students.

ValuablesLarge amounts of money and/or valuables should not be brought to school, as teaching staff will not assume responsibility for such items. The Policy on Mobile Phones and other electronic devices is on Page 17 of the College Diary. Compliance to this policy is monitored on occasion and parents will be notified of any instances where students are not complying with correct use and resultant consequences. Please note that students are not permitted to use their mobile to contact parents unless given permission by a staff member. Parents are also asked not to contact students via devices during school hours. In cases of emergency or where necessary, parents are asked to

ring the College Administration (8356 5966).

Be aware that students are responsible for items such as USB’s and Graphic Calculators. These items should at all times be in their possession. They are not to be left lying around. It is recommended that all possessions, uniform included, are clearly labelled with full name. No items are to be left in PE change rooms.

Recreational items, which can provide a distraction to students’ learning, should be left at home. If present at school, such items will be retained by the teacher and returned upon parent/caregiver/teacher negotiation.

Appropriate sports equipment for play during recess and lunch breaks is permitted and encouraged. The College issues equipment on loan to students during these times.

Student Drivers/ParkingA current Permission to Drive form must be signed and presented to your Pastoral Teacher at the beginning of the year. This MUST be done even if you drove to school the previous year. If you are unsure about any matter


related to the use of vehicles, whether you can have passengers etc, please check beforehand, rather than after the event.

Due to the number of student drivers and cyclists who use this area, due vigilance and caution must be displayed. When entering and departing, be mindful of other people / vehicles / bicycles in the vicinity. Standard rules regarding responsible use of a motor vehicle apply and inappropriate driving will lead to the loss of the privilege.

Be very careful when parking/driving around the school. We take very seriously any complaints made by neighbours whether it be rubbish left, noise made, parking incorrectly or driving dangerously.

Conduct In PublicStudents travelling to and from school by public transport are expected to behave in a positive, courteous and socially acceptable manner, for example: appropriate dress, being seated, talking quietly and complying with the expectations of transport authorities. Any complaints received from transport authorities will be communicated to parents as they are managed by the College.

Study LessonsYear 12 students will finish school at lunchtime on Monday and Friday.

Deadline Policy The purpose of the deadline policy is to help students and teachers to manage workloads and school-set deadlines for assessment tasks. This policy applies to all teachers and students and requires parental support. A deadline is the latest time of date by which an assessment task is to be completed and submitted to the teacher. For assessment tasks that are completed over an extended period of time, a number of dates are generally set at different stages of the development of the assessment task (Checkpoints). In the case where Checkpoints are set, there is an expectation that:

Students will provide evidence of their learning to their teacher or follow a procedure outlined by their teacher

The teacher will monitor the progress of the student during this period.



There are occasions when an extension of an assessment deadline can be approved for valid reason. Acceptable grounds for the extension are determined by the teacher.

Students are expected to negotiate the extension with the Subject Teacher before the deadline and submit a completed “Request for Extension Form”.

Teachers are expected to follow the Deadline Policy process when work is not presented according to school-set deadlines and where there is not a valid reason.

Plagiarism PolicyPlagiarism in any form is a violation of the College’s fundamental principles. This may be defined as the ‘appropriation of another’s ideas or works, in order to pass them off as one’s own’.

Examples of this practice may include:

copying of any sources that are not acknowledged in the work;

excessive use of, and failure to cite, printed texts such as articles and books;

unfair use of, and reliance upon, other students’ work.

In sum, it may be regarded as an action which is intended to delude and deceive a teacher that the work being presented and assessed is the student’s own, when in fact it is not. Of particular concern to the St Michael’s College community is cheating. It deludes the school and staff who attempt to assess the effectiveness of teaching and learning; it discriminates against other students who work honestly for their rewards and may in competitive situations miss out on opportunities because of another’s dishonesty; it misinforms the parents who operate on the assumption that the report they receive is an accurate representation of honest effort; and it erroneously grades the student who does not learn to be proud of genuine effort and whose character and learning development are stunted.

The full policy can be found in the school diary and on the College Web Site and should be read by all students and parents.

Backup and Data StorageIt is important for students to keep a backup file of their work. Technology can fail, be lost or stolen, so it is extremely important that all students

take action to ensure they have backed up their schoolwork.

Office 365 (O365) is a Microsoft (MS) product that all staff and students have access to at St Michael’s College. It combines a number of different Microsoft products together and allows you to access them and all your files through your own MS ‘cloud’ account. Students are required to back up their work continually and O365 allows this to occur seamlessly. Files are backed up automatically if saved in OneDrive and can be accessed from any internet enabled computer (e.g. desktop, tablet, laptop).

Computer UseStudents are provided with access to the internet and email facilities. You are reminded these are for educational purposes only. Any misuse of these facilities will result in computing rights being denied and in some circumstances further detentions or suspension from school could result. Random checks of laptops will occur throughout the year, so be responsible in your use of the equipment.

Home StudyHome Study is a generic term implying work done at home. This may involve:

• set work;

• assignment and projects;

• revision and study or, a combination of all three.

The more challenging aspect of home study at Year 12 is the volume and complexity of work that needs to be completed and revised. The latter is particularly important, given the on-going and cumulative nature of the assessment process in Year 12.

Recommended Amount:

Week nights 3 - 3½ hours

Weekends 6 - 8 hours

That is, a total amount of 20 - 24 hours per week. This represents 4 - 5 hours per subject per week. While one may question the validity of these figures, research over recent years has suggested a high correlation between the volume of time specified above, and, true realisation of ability, especially at Year 12 level.



Time ManagementYou’ll be finished classes in Term 4 Week 2 and facing exams before you know it, so try not to waste much time this year.

To master your time is to control your life and what you do with it.

Effective study requires making the best of all possible alternatives and then doing everything to the best of your abilities in the given time.

Successfully completing an assignment does not depend primarily upon your skills, but upon the time you make available and how wisely it is used.

Time management is essential for students who want to achieve their goals. If you want to become an achiever with your studies, you need to:

Record the things you do with your time in order to monitor what improvements can be made.

Manage your time carefully as it is a limited resource – once it is gone it cannot be reclaimed.

Always maintain a sensible balance in the use of your time. Exam preparation is only one aspect of your life this year – don’t forget your family, your friends and doing all the other

things that are important to you right now. One way to ensure you get the most from each day is to follow the steps below:

1. On the night before, make a list of the things you want to do. Number them in order of priority.

2. During the next day, tackle one thing at a time according to the priority listing until each task is completed.

The above steps can be used when planning goals for a day, a week, a month, a year, or a life-time. They can be applied to such activities as your personal life, running a business, achieving sporting or recreational goals, or preparing for an examination.

When planning, always start with a goal and ask such questions as:

What do I want to achieve?

How much time have I got?

What resources do I have?

How much effort is required?

Who will help me achieve my goals?

How will I know if I have succeeded?


In preparing for examinations you basically have to identify what you need to know, and work out how much time you have to learn it.

At the beginning of your study time, read through your class notes for the day. As you do so:

a. Ask yourself what these notes are mainly about.

b. Consider where the notes fit in with what has gone before in this topic.

c. Highlight any special points, quotes or formulae that have appeared for the first time.

d. Mark any parts you do not understand. Make a note of the difficulty. At the next opportunity, ask your teacher to clarify what you do not understand.

e. Make time to read ahead to find out what comes next. It is often helpful to do this on the weekend.

f. File your notes so they can easily be found when it comes to making exam summaries at a later date.

It is very easy to waste time if you are not careful. An important skill to acquire is the efficient use of your time. The effective use of your time will make learning easier for you. The key to the efficient use of study time is planning. If you are not used to

planning your study times, you may find it difficult to change your habits and become more organised. Also it is important to know the total hours you spend each week at study and homework. For a start, it is essential that you keep a balance between the two activities.

The best time to study and complete homework varies greatly from person to person. As much as possible, try to study at the same time each day. Being consistent and having regular study times will help you settle down to study quickly, and consequently less time will be wasted.

It is natural that there are probably subjects that you either like more or find easier to study than others. It is only human to be tempted to spend most of your time working on these favourite subjects. However, learning more and more about one subject at the expense of others is a very poor study strategy. A much better strategy is to always start by studying the hardest subjects, or the ones you like the least.

Sometimes you will complete more hours at homework than study, especially at the start of the year. Then as the exams approach, you will put more time into study activities.


Late SubmissionLate submission of work is generally not accepted for assessment purposes and each instance will be investigated accordingly. The student may be at risk of forfeiting all marks allocated to the task, in accordance with SACE guidelines.

If there are any queries about this information, you are invited to contact Mr Kitschke, Mr Schirripa or the Director of Curriculum & Assessment (Ms Bron Kemp) for further information.

ConcernsTeachers aim to ensure that an excessive number of assessment items do not fall due on the same date. Generally, they also aim to return marked material as soon as possible.

Should concerns arise regarding these or any other areas of assessment, please pass them on to your Pastoral Teacher, Mr Kitschke, Mr Schirripa or the Director of Curriculum & Assessment.

Study PlansIn order to maximise your results and ensure you continue to allow some time for rest and relaxation, the creation of a study timetable is recommended. This will occur during pastoral time in Term 1.

Eternal ExamsFor an up to date Written Examination Timetable, visit www.sace.sa.edu.au

Special Provisions in AssessmentA student who suffers a set-back throughout the course of the year due to disability, illness or personal circumstances, may be eligible for Special Provisions.

These ‘set-backs’ fall into two broad groups: those that occur during the year and affect the school assessed component of their course and those which affect the student’s final exam performance.

Any set-back of a short-term nature, such as chicken pox or a broken arm, is handled internally by the school. Variations to the school assessment can be negotiated with


individual teachers and require the normal supporting documentation. Where there is a long-term disability such as dyslexia or physical disability which requires special arrangements for the final exam the SACE Board must be notified at the beginning of the year. Finally, where a student falls ill or subject to circumstances which are likely to affect their exam performance either on the day or within a three day period, they may apply to the SACE Board for use of the Moderated Predicted Exam Mark in place of their exam score. Wherever possible, the student is encouraged to sit for the exam in case they actually perform above the predicted mark. In this case, the higher score stands.

Please note that the SACE Board no longer makes allowances for students where English is a second language.

Should you have any questions about the above matters, please contact the Director of Curriculum & Assessment or Mr Schirripa, SACE Coordinator.

SACE RequirementsAn assumption is made that much homework and thought went into your subject selections. Given the goal of our Year 12 cohort is to achieve their SACE, the following points clarify the minimum requirements:

Structure of the SACE Every subject or course successfully completed earns credits towards the SACE. Students will achieve a grade between A+ to E- for each of their SACE subjects. Note: ‘Subject Completion’ at Stage 2 means achieving a grade of E- or better whilst Successful Completion at Stage 2 means achieving a grade of C- or better.

To be awarded the SACE, students completing Stage 2 must:

Complete 200 Credits of subjects

Achieve a C or better in the Personal Learning Plan (PLP) – Year 10, 20 Credits of Literacy (English) at Stage 1, 10 Credits of Numeracy (Maths) at Stage 1, and the Research Project at Stage 2, all of which are compulsory subjects.

Achieve a C Grade or better in an additional 60 Credits at Stage 2, which equates to 3 full year subjects

EXAM PROTOCOLS

Expectations for student behaviour during examinations will be issued prior to the examination periods addressing issues such as punctuality and general approach to exams. It is also important that you understand that at examination times, as at all



others, expectations surrounding personal presentation and grooming are to be maintained. This means that students sitting examinations must be cleanly shaved and neatly presented in their correct uniform. Grooming standards, including neat and appropriate hair, as per the requirements stated in your Diary, will continue to apply. Facial piercings are not permissible and restrictions surrounding the wearing of jewellery and makeup must also be respected.

In line with SACE Examination protocols, mobile phones or other electronic devices must not be taken into the examination room.

Year 12 Results and Post-Secondary Study Requirements

Moderation

Moderation is a process used by the SACE Board to make assessments in a particular subject comparable, and thus fair, for all students, no matter which school or class they are in. The SACE Board uses a range of processes to ensure that all the students taking a given subject are assessed using the same standards. If you would like to

know more details about moderation, contact the SACE Board for a student fact sheet. (www.sace.sa.edu.au).

Scaling

Scaling is a process that compares and adjusts initial results – called ‘raw scores’ – across subjects at Stage 2. Tertiary entrance points are calculated for each subject using the scaling process. These points are produced for tertiary entrance purposes only, and contribute towards the university aggregate and the TAFE SA selection score. The university aggregate is translated into the Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking (ATAR).

Facts about Scaling

There is no guarantee that a subject will be ‘scaled up’ or ‘scaled down’ in a particular year. The level of scaling can alter from year to year but in general it does not change much from year to year.

Scaling of a subject depends upon the performance of groups of students taking that subject in a particular year, not the performance of an individual student.

The combination of subjects taken by a student does not affect the


tertiary entrance points received by that student. All students in SA with the same raw score are scaled the same amount.

For more details about scaling, visit the SACE Board website (www.sace.sa.edu.au).

University Entrance requires qualifying for the SACE, obtaining an ATAR and meeting any Pre requisite subject requirements for the course/ program.

To obtain a University Aggregate and an ATAR you must qualify for the SACE, comply with rules regarding Precluded Combinations, comply with rules regarding Counting Restrictions and complete at least 80 credits of study at Stage 2 of which 60 credits of study must be 20 credit Tertiary Admission Subjects (TAS) from a maximum of 3 attempts (which need not be in consecutive years) Students MUST refer to the St Michael’s Curriculum Handbook and the SATAC Tertiary Entrance Booklet to check the validity of their unique subject choices.

Students who are aiming for University Entrance should be fully aware about which Stage 2 subjects can earn you Bonus Points towards your University Aggregate. To calculate your ATAR please refer to

the resources previously mentioned.

University Entrance requires qualifying for the SACE, obtaining an ATAR and meeting any Pre requisite subject requirements for the course/ program.

To obtain a University Aggregate and an ATAR you must qualify for the SACE, comply with rules regarding Precluded Combinations, comply with rules regarding Counting Restrictions and complete at least 80 credits of study at Stage 2 of which 60 credits of study must be 20 credit Tertiary Admission Subjects (TAS) from a maximum of 3 attempts (which need not be in consecutive years) Students MUST refer to the St Michael’s Curriculum Handbook and the SATAC Tertiary Entrance Booklet to check the validity of their unique subject choices.

Students who are aiming for University Entrance should be fully aware about which Stage 2 subjects can earn you Bonus Points towards your University Aggregate. To calculate your ATAR please refer to the resources previously mentioned.


TAFE Entry RequirementsEach course at TAFE has a Minimum Entry Requirement. For many TAFE courses above Certificate Level 3 the Minimum Entry requirement is qualification for the SACE, and obtaining a TAFESA Selection Score or satisfactory performance in the TABS Test. Note Some courses may require other specific Minimum Entry Requirements such as Audition/ Portfolio.

If a course is deemed to be “Competitive” then SATAC will decide on offers to the course based on a TAFESA Score. For School Leavers this score is based on 60 credits (i.e. Scaled Score) from the best 3 TAS Subjects ( comply with rules regarding Precluded Combinations); for all applicants, this can also be based on the score achieved in the basic TABS Test (a Multiple Choice test based on Year 10 Numeracy and Literacy). The third way to obtain a TAFESA Score is based on the score calculated from a completed Higher Education qualification, not relevant for most school leavers. There are Bonus Point Subjects recognised at TAFE and these vary by course. Students should check the TAFE website to see which preferred subjects earn Bonus Points to their course of interest.

SATACIn August of this year, each student will be asked to consider courses that they may wish to pursue at tertiary level.

SATAC nominations will be completed by students who wish to be enrolled at the Universities, and students who wish to enrol in courses at TAFE.

Early investigation into preferred careers and courses will take some of the anxiety out of this process later in the year.

Pastoral Time will be set aside in Term 3 to examine the SATAC process.

Please see the Career Counsellors in Student Services to clarify ATAR course cut-offs of University courses of possible interest.

We bring to your attention that TAFE will offer mid-year entry to many of their courses. To be eligible for mid-year entry you will need to apply to SATAC in April and sit for a TABS Test. Those of you contemplating leaving school during the year this may be timely information.

We remind you to see a Careers Counsellor early in Term 1 to support you in your goal setting and Career planning.


DetentionsShould Year 12s fail to comply with the College’s expectations, then detentions will be issued, or early dismissal privilege will be withdrawn for a set period of time. This will usually include discussion of the problem with Mr Kitschke and possibly a social service component, depending on the nature of the breach.

Year 12s are the role models for the College and as such are expected to meet very high standards.

Assessment RequirementsIt is important that all students and parents be made aware of the SACE assessment requirements that are applied at St Michael’s College. These measures are outlined so as to assist the College community to understand and adhere to the policies and practices as they are outlined in the SACE Handbook.

Assessment PlansAt the beginning of each semester, an assessment plan for each subject will be published in the SEQTA Learning Portal which will cover the entirety of the assessment period. The assessment plan will include the approximate date of assessment tasks together with the weighting applied to that task. This plan helps you monitor the work to be completed. Marks for assessment tasks will also be published for students and parents.

DraftsWhere drafts are specified for assignments and essays, they must be submitted to the teacher for approval by the due date. Even when drafts are not formally required, they should be standard procedure and retained should verification of your work be required. Drafting is recommended as one means of ensuring optimal results.

Submission of Assessments:

When work is being submitted, it may be done so in two ways:

a. Directly to the subject teacher concerned, or

b. Through the Library.



In the case of work submitted to the Library, Stage 2 students may submit work before 4.00 pm on or before the due date. Students are advised to present their school diary where a Library stamp will verify the submission of work.

A general principle to remember is that the onus to substantiate work, or submission of work, lies with the student!

Absence or Extenuating CircumstancesShould absence from school or extenuating circumstances occur prior to the date of submission, an Extension to Assignment form must be obtained from the Subject Teacher and a negotiated date agreed upon for the lodgement of the work. In principle, the period of extension will be in due proportion to the period of absence.

Should a student be absent on the due date of an assignment being due, a note verifying the absence by a doctor or parent must accompany the assignment being submitted upon return. Absences on such dates for minor illness or circumstance leading to work not being submitted on time is not acceptable.

A due date is a due date!

Year 12 General Information College Awards

There are a number of awards presented to Year 12 students as a consequence of the academic year.

Dux

The Dux is presented to a student graduating from St Michael’s College in the previous school year who achieves the highest aggregate of the best five scaled scores as calculated by the SACE Board in Stage Two subjects, studied over the past year. Conferral of the award will be made after consultation with the curriculum committee following the release of results in January in any given year. A recommendation from the Curriculum Committee will then be referred to the Principal. More than one award can be presented when the results cannot be separated.

Graduation Awards

De La Salle Award - presented to a student for outstanding academic, spiritual and cultural contribution to St Michael’s College.

Dux of the College - presented to the student who secured the highest aggregate (based upon subject achievement scores) in the preceding year.

Additional Graduation Awards are presented to students who display:

A high standard in attitude and achievement in the respective award category.

Participation in all school activities with a good attitude

Full commitment to the ethos of the school.

An awareness of others and their needs.

Positive contribution to the school or local community.

Service to the College: Presented by the College for outstanding service and commitment to the St Michael’s College Community across a range of areas.

Athlete of the Year: Presented by the College for outstanding representation through the College Co-Curricular Program and possibly State or National Representation.

Special & Significant Awards: Presented by the College as deemed appropriate. For example, possible recognition for:

State and / or National Representation in a chosen sport.

Special contributions to the College community.


College Awards

Student Citizenship Award: Presented by The Order of Australia Association.

Josiah Mitton Award: Presented by the Charles Sturt Council and recognising the contribution that individuals make to their school community.

Caltex Best All Rounder: Presented by Caltex and acknowledging a student’s all round contributions to St Michael’s College across such domains as studies, sport, community work, conduct and leadership.

Mary Colton Award: Presented by the Member for Colton in recognition of the value of commitment, dedication and achievement.

The Hindmarsh Shield: Presented by the Federal Member for Hindmarsh and recognising excellence in Leadership, Community Service, Sporting, Musical or other discipline (as nominated by the school).

ADF Awards – Year 10 and 12: The Australian Defence Force Leadership and Teamwork Awards promote personal development, strong values and community-mindedness and are awarded to students who demonstrate qualities of teamwork, leadership, integrity and initiative.

Mark Butler: Presented in the spirit of Sir John Hindmarsh, whom the seat of Hindmarsh is named after. The award acknowledges the valuable contribution of a student recognising excellence in either Leadership, Community Service, Sporting or musical domain.

Mary MacKillop: Recognises spiritual and personal qualities, and their contributions made by students in their senior years to their school community.

Student Support - Student Services

It would not be unusual for some difficulties to arise throughout the year.

Do not be afraid to seek help if needed.

Your Pastoral Teacher, Student Counsellors, Year 12 Director and Assistant Director are available to assist. The Deputies and the Principal also act to assist these people, so you have many options open to you.

The best way to deal with a problem is to deal with it early. Don’t hold back - seek us out so we can work together to solve the problem.

The following departments under the umbrella of ‘Students Services’ are part of St Michael’s College academic and personal support for all students. All students and parents are invited to access these services when required. Student Services may be contacted by phone or in person.

Personal Counselling

Available for all students who are experiencing any one of a variety of difficulties ranging from school based issues to family and relationship issues. Coming to a new school can be quite daunting

for some students so we encourage students to visit the counsellors if they are at all concerned about anything. Early intervention for any difficulties, which students might be experiencing, offer the best opportunity for a positive outcome.

Grief Counselling

Our Chaplain, Sister Nithya works in an Outreach capacity supporting students and their families who are dealing with grief through serious illness or the death of a loved one.

Learning Support

Supports students with diagnosed learning disabilities or difficulties. The Learning Support Coordinator sets priorities for Learning Support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Is part of our mainstream curriculum and assists students whose first language is not English with intensive English language support.

St Michael’s Outreach Education Program is committed to:

Supporting a number of students from war torn countries through


Student Support - Student Services

the mainstream English as a Second Language (EAL) program.

Careers and Academic Counselling

Students are assisted with their subject choices to best position them for their future direction. The counsellors also assist students with their career pathways which may be into tertiary studies, apprenticeship, or into full time employment.

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Assists students who are not going into university but are looking for other career pathways such as traineeships.

Careers and Academic Counselling

Assists students with their career pathways which may be into tertiary studies or into full time employment – students are assisted with their career and subject choices to best position them for their future direction.

The De La Salle Program

Is run throughout the second semester of the school year to assist selected students with intensive academic support and work experience pathways.

Please do not hesitate to contact us and come and speak with us if you have any concerns at all.

Time Management and Organisation / Student Empowerment

Short term courses run for students whose ability to flourish will be supported by these programs.

Consequences for Non-Completion of Work

Non-completion of Summative Assessment Tasks by the deadline and without negotiated extension

1. Students who do not meet deadlines, including CHECKPOINT deadlines, and have not negotiated an extension with the subject teacher will be given an after-school WORK COMPLETION SESSION the next school day.

2. During the WORK COMPLETION SESSION, the student will be expected to complete the set task in order to meet requirements.

3. If the task is not completed during this supervised time, the student will be assigned further WORK COMPLETION SESSIONS (including Saturday in some cases) until the assessment task is completed to a satisfactory standard.

4. However, if the task is not completed after 3 WORK COMPLETION SESSIONS there will be a meeting with the student/parents/subject teacher(s)/Year Level Director and/or Head of Department.

This meeting may result in an Internal Suspension.

5. If a student is repeatedly required to attend WORK COMPLETION SESSIONS (i.e. 3 or more across

a number of subjects in one term) there will be a meeting with the student/parents/subject teacher(s)/ Year Level Director. This meeting may result in an Internal Suspension.

The consequence of not doing the work is……..DOING THE WORK

Concerns

Teachers aim to ensure that an excessive number of assessment items do not fall due on the same date. Generally, they also aim to return marked material within a week.

Should concerns arise regarding these or any other areas of assessment please pass them on to your Pastoral Teacher or Year 12 Director.


Conclusion

There is an infinite amount of information that we could commit to this publication. The intention behind this booklet is not to provide exhaustive detail, rather to signal the pertinent issues that students in Year 12 will have to acknowledge and address.

It is our hope and intention that Year 12 will be a fitting conclusion to your schooling life.

You might like to consider the following quote, (corny but true):

“Success doesn’t come to you … you go to it.” (Marva Collins)

We trust that the year ahead will be full of quality experiences, enriched by the choices that you make along the way.

The Staff of St Michael’s College

St John Baptist De La Salle:

Pray for Us.

Live Jesus in our Heart:

Forever.


Primary Campus

78 East Avenue Beverley, SA 5009

p: 08 8346 6548 f: 08 8346 9449

[email protected]

Secondary Campus

15 Mitton Avenue Henley Beach, SA 5022

p: 08 8356 5966 f: 08 8356 1092

[email protected]

Documents

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020 - St Michael's College, Adelaide · 12PC-04 Mr Justin Emerson LEC04 12PC-05 Ms Bridget Kearins LEC05 ... 28 January Classes Resume for Year 7 and 12 29 January