Established in 1957, the college is known for its personalised learning, high level of individual attention and strong partnerships between staff, students and families. A sense of excitement in learning is prominent, teaching student to become independent, lifelong learners. All students are required to wear full school uniform. Parents are encouraged, especially through the college council and parents’ group, to participate in college programs and projects. Elwood College is officially accredited to receive full fee-paying overseas students and each year welcomes many students from a wide variety of countries. ElwoodCollege is an active partner in the acclaimed Elwood Learning Hub, educating students from early childhood right through to VCE in one neighbourhood precint (with ElwoodPrimary School and Poet’s Grove Family and Children’s Centre). Together, the three schools are creating a high quality public education pathway in one neighbourhood, from early childhood right through to VCE. The Elwood Learning Hub provides a real sense of community for families and strengthens student pathways across the three educational settings.
Facilities: There are newly renovated specialist facilities in science, hospitality, music and information technology/computers. The college has a 280-seat theatre, gymnasium, Resource and VCE Centres.
Curriculum: Elwood College offers a broad secondary education that emphasises academic achievement alongside personal development. A variety of innovative programs further enhance the traditional academic program. A broad range of VCE and VET programs are offered. For students interested in accelerated learning, the college offers enrichment programs at all levels in a variety of learning areas. Students can undertake advanced work in specific subjects, join additional classes or participate in a wide variety of activities that enhance the core curriculum program. The student journalism program sees student writing published in the college newsletter, website and yearly anthology. Performing and visual arts are strong elements of both the curriculum and activities offered beyond the classroom. Year 9 students participate in the innovative It’s Up 2 Me program, which has a strong focus on leadership, including Community Projects and the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Sport: Swimming and athletics carnivals and inter-school sports including basketball, volleyball, cricket, hockey, football, soccer, softball, tennis, futsal, badminton, table tennis and netball. The ElwoodCollegeBasketballAcademy commenced in 2015, a fee-based program providing professional coaching on site.
Extra-curricular activities: Music and drama activities including a musical production, choir, theatre sports, school band and ensemble groups; Student Journalism Program; camping; art exhibitions; leadership opportunities, including the SRC, political forums, peer mentoring and public speaking; debating; chess and computing. All students participate in the four House events over the course of the year: Inter House Swimming, Performing Arts, Athletics and Debating are contested strongly but in exemplary school spirit. There is an exchange program with the college’s Japanese sister school and there are sister-school visits to Japan and France every two years. Study of a language other than English is a high priority. There are many opportunities for Student Leadership as College Leaders, House Leaders or Social Justice, Environment or Relationships Leaders.
Student well being programs: Our positive psychology program is delivered in tutorial sessions and complements all learning and teaching program at the college. The student code of conduct is based on reciprocal responsibility and individual differences are respected. Year 7 and 11 students participate in a peer support program and there are programs for work experience, careers guidance and student welfare. Students also benefit from the dynamic community spirit supported by the Elwood Learning Hub. The partnership between three education providers allows for smooth transitions between kindergarten, primary and secondary education and creates a real sense of community for families.