Information Handbook

Select Entry Academic Program

2019

“Through a process of inquiry, questioning, curiosity and collaboration, students are challenged to learn in an environment that is safe and supportive.”

What is A.C.E.D?

A.C.E.D. stands for ‘Acceleration’, ‘Challenge’, ‘Enrichment’, and ‘Discovery’ – these are the values that underpin Mount Ridley P-12 College’s Select Entry Academic Program. This program offers places to a limited number of very capable and committed students who are able to meet the academic rigours set by the program.

The Vision of this program acknowledges that every student is unique, and that their learning style is reflective of their individuality. Through a process of inquiry, questioning, curiosity and collaboration, students are accelerated through their coursework at a faster pace, providing them with a challenging learning environment.

The enrichment component of the program encourages the study of more complex and abstract concepts, with a greater emphasis on higher order thinking skills. There are a number of opportunities provided to these students, including participation in a range of competitions, excursions and projects.

As a select entry program, students will be conducting learning activities both on and off campus that will require a financial contribution of approximately $280 - $320.

Benefits of the Program

The benefits of the A.C.E.D. program include:

  • the opportunity to work independently and cooperatively with other similarly minded and highly motivated students;
  • access to specialised coaching and a more challenging learning environment;
  • numerous opportunities for involvement in a range of enrichment and extension tasks and programs;
  • an emphasis on higher order thinking, learning and research skills and an ability to study in areas of specialised interest;
  • the opportunity to complete their studies in an accelerated manner and progress directly to tertiary studies;
  • the promotion of very high levels of maturity, creativity and aptitude;
  • greater involvement in Student Leadership Programs, including Community-Based Projects.

Who is the Program designed for?

Accelerated learning is not appropriate for all students. It is both rewarding and demanding, with high expectations and a greater classroom workload. The program suits students who want to be challenged and who demonstrate capability across multiple academic areas.

Students are actively encouraged to develop investigative, problem solving and creative thinking skills that will extend and engage them and which will provide an excellent foundation for further studies.

Structure of the Program

Students undertaking A.C.E.D. at Year 7 will have their program modelled upon the requirements of the Victorian Curriculum. The program will be differentiated to meet the needs of the individuals within the group by a team of dedicated teachers. The Year 7 and 8 Curriculum Programs mirror the structure of the regular Year 7 and 8 programs, which are as follows:

YEAR 7 WEEKLY PROGRAM
SUBJECT / SESSIONS PER WEEK
English / 5
Mathematics / 5
Health & P.E. / 3
Mentor / 1
The Arts / 2
Humanities / 3
Science / 2
Technology / 2
LOTE / 2
YEAR 8 WEEKLY PROGRAM
SUBJECT / SESSIONS PER WEEK
English / 5
Mathematics / 5
Health & P.E. / 3
Mentor / 1
The Arts / 2
Humanities / 2
Science / 3
Technology / 2
LOTE / 2

2019 will see the first year of the A.C.E.D. program at Year 9. Year 9 is a crucial part of a child’s education, as it acts as a bridge between the junior and senior years of secondary schooling. At Year 9, the A.C.E.D. class will be provided with an advanced curriculum, including - Advanced English (English and Literature curriculum components), Applied Mathematics and Applied Science. The aim of this extension is to prepare students for undertaking Units 1 and 2 of a VCE subject in Year 10.

A.C.E.D. students in Years 10, 11 and 12 will undertake specialised individualised courses, which will include accelerated VCE programs in Year 10, and access to university enhancement studies where appropriate.

Each group of students at the College is assigned a Mentor Teacher who is their main contact person. The basic principles of Mentor sessions include:

  • study plans;
  • goal setting;
  • diary checks;
  • self-assessments;
  • negotiating curriculum;
  • pastoral care focus including team building;
  • organisational skills; and
  • studying and preparing for tests/exams.

For each Year 7 intake, one class group (of no more than 25 students) will make up the A.C.E.D. group and will potentially remain in that group up until the end of Year 12 (provided they meet the requirements of the program as set by the College). During this time, students will be in the care of a Mentor teacher, the A.C.E.D. Coordinator and Director of Specialised Programs.

Selection of Students

The selection process for A.C.E.D. is designed to identify students for whom this type of program is appropriate. The selection process involves:

  • completion of an application form, including special assessment forms filled in by the parent/guardian. Applications are due by Friday May 11 via email to Lorena Folino at or directly to the College at the Main Administration Office;
  • completion of a select entry scholastic test: all students that submit a timely application will be invited to complete this test and parents will be notified when this will occur.

(Please note: a $40 non-refundable contribution applies to cover external testing and assessment charges. This payment is due with application forms on Friday May 11. The College subsidises the remaining part of this fee for each applicant);

  • information collected from the student’s primary school;
  • completion of a student self-assessment; and
  • an interview with short-listed students and the presentation of a portfolio of work.

All of this information is used to help select the students who will be best equipped to cope with the rigours of our enrichment and accelerated learning program.

Expectations and Review

It is important that there is effective two-way communication between school and home and we encourage parents/guardians to contact the College if they feel any particular difficulties or issues are emerging for their child.

Students will be expected to make a genuine commitment to A.C.E.D. They will be required to work hard, both in and out of class, try their best at all times, actively seek assistance if they are experiencing difficulties and demonstrate cooperation and respect towards teachers and fellow students.

It is an expectation that students within select entry programs, such as A.C.E.D., are meeting the expectations outlined by the program. The Grade Point Average (GPA) highlights students’ level of application towards each of the performance areas of effort, behaviour and achievement throughout a five-week cycle. It is expected that students in the A.C.E.D. program maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Students that do not achieve a minimum GPA of 3.0 for any cycle will be supported through the use of a GPA tracker. This is designed to assist students in taking responsibility in achieving their academic potential.

The progress of students will be monitored regularly and students will receive regular reports and feedback over the course of the year. Consultation will occur between teachers, parents/guardians and students if there are any concerns as to whether the program best suits the needs of a particular student. Continued good academic and appropriate behaviours are necessary for students to remain in the program. Students are able to return to the Mainstream Program if this is deemed desirable.

Important Information

Completed Parent/Guardian Assessment Forms, Application Forms and a non-refundable payment of $40 to cover the testing, must be returned to the College no later than Friday May 11, 2018.
Please note: this does not fully cover the cost of testing, the rest will be subsidised by the College. Testing Schedules will be sent to confirmed applicants upon receipt of their applications.

If you require further information please do not hesitate to contact:

Melinda Gibbons

ACED Program Leader

PH: (03) 8338 3600

Lorena Folino

Director of Specialised Programs

PH: (03) 8338 3600