Facilities: The facilities are modern and designed to enhance learning and incorporate leading educational practices. A purpose-built VCE Learning Common supports the senior program. A range of new facilities has opened in recent years, including the Science Discovery Centre, Year 10 Learning Area, Drama Studio, Language/ESL Centre and Information Resource Centre. Hawthorn Secondary College also features a Middle Years Learning Centre, tiered lecture theatre and an Applied Design Education Centre.
Curriculum: Year 7 and 8 students work with an integrated and inquiry-based curriculum that values different learning styles and challenges students in their thinking. Each semester a different topic is explored across all of the eight Key Learning Areas, focused around an essential question. This approach encourages research, requires that students develop a more thorough and complex understanding of what is being studied and is designed to ignite a sense of curiosity. Year 7 and 8 students receive an iPad as part of the iPads for iDeas program, giving them non-stop access to a highly interactive, engaging and personalised educational experience. Year 9 examines the Power of Persuasion and how opinions are shaped. It is a year of growing independence and choice. In collaboration with the Victorian Arts Centre Digital Learning Hub, students also undertake a city project in which they complete city-based fieldwork to produce a digital film that responds to an issue. Year 9 students are also able to participate in a mentoring program with Freehills law firm to work on goal setting, self-confidence and building efficacy throughout the year. Also at Year 9, the Positive Ageing Digital Storytelling Intergenerational Project (PADSIP) is an award-winning program where students work with an elderly person to develop an evocative multi-media narrative of their life experiences. Year 10 students focus on the importance of global perspectives. They complete a work experience placement and there is an extensive electives program to assist students to prepare for their chosen pathways, supported with community partnerships, TAFE and universities. All students have Individual Learning Plans and students aged 15 and over have a Managed Individual Pathway Plan. Under these arrangements students take responsibility for their own learning and develop independent learning skills that are crucial for success in the post compulsory years of schooling. In Years 11 to 12 a range of personalised programs is offered that recognise the different needs and aspirations of students at the senior level. An inclusive careers education program, as well as a diverse range of educational pathways is available. Students can select from a combination of different study options. These include a broad selection of VCE subjects, Vocational Education and Training (VET) studies, acceleration to VCE studies, TAFE placements and university enhancement subjects. Part of the Senior Extension VCAL Program, the Photographic Imaging Centre (PIC) also offers a Diploma in Photoimaging for 18 to 21 year olds. This is a selective-entry program. Enquiries: 03 9804 6380
Sport: A multipurpose indoor sporting complex gives students access to quality sport education and lunchtime/after school activities. House and inter-school sports are offered.
Extra-curricular activities: Students in all year levels are given opportunities to achieve success in and beyond the classroom with an extensive selection of co-curricular activities which encompass: student leadership, enrichment, academic and acceleration programs, house and sport competitions and cultural and community based experiences. The Arts program is a dynamic and creative aspect of school life at Hawthorn Secondary College and includes the annual Arts Festival with an exhibition showcasing student work. A vibrant music program is also available with instrumental music tuition and multiple performance groups. Student welfare programs: The Wellbeing Team, comprising the Director of Student Services, guidance officer, school chaplain and adolescent health nurse, develop a range of programs specifically targeted at addressing the interest levels and needs of all students. Additional literacy and numeracy support and an ESL program are also available. New students are supported with a comprehensive transition, pastoral and orientation program to ensure that they feel happy and confident. High standards of student behaviour are expected and self-discipline is emphasised and encouraged. Hawthorn Secondary College employs a restorative approach to resolving student issues. Visit the website for more information, including a virtual tour.