ENGLISH

The English program aims to foster listening, speaking, reading and writing skills with a view to improving critical thinking and communication.

Program features:

• development of students’ ability to read, view, speak about, listen to, write, create and reflect on increasingly
• sophisticated texts with purpose and confidence
• exploration, critical analysis and evaluation of a range of issues
• discussion and collaboration
• fostering a lifelong appreciation of literature
• creating writing portfolios that reflect an understanding of form, style, purpose, audience  and the language features of
• specific text types.
• Elective choices: literature, creative writing

MATHEMATICS

Mathematics is an intellectual pursuit, relevant to all aspects of life because it is about problem solving.

Program features:

• a ‘numeracy across the curriculum’ approach
• a scope and sequence that facilitates progress along the learning continuum
• an emphasis on application and skill development in practical contexts
• extension and challenge through local, state and national competitions
• a full range of studies to cater for student interests, pathways and aspirations
• preparation for tertiary studies, trades or life in general.

SCIENCE

Science, technology and innovation are increasingly important to our economic wellbeing and quality of life. It helps us understand and shape our daily lives.

Program features:

• a core part of the instructional program from Years 7-12
• teachers with expertise in all strands of science
• lab technicians who support the resourcing of investigations and experiments
• varied and practical driven tuition
• dedicated science facilities
• constantly upgraded equipment to facilitate hands on learning
• participation in local, state and national competitions
• field trips to broaden learning opportunities.

HUMANITIES

The humanities help us understand others through their languages, histories and cultures. They teach us to deal critically and logically with subjective, complex information, to weigh evidence, think creatively, build writing and reading skills, ask questions and to develop as informed and active citizens.

Program features:

• studies of History, Geography, Accounting, Economics and Business, Law and Politics
• inquiry based learning
• the development of research skills
• analysis of information including artefacts, maps, graphs and diagrams, statistics, photographs and interviews
• learning to form conclusions based on evidence
• excursions and fieldtrips relevant to the learning.

ARTS & TECHNOLOGY

In Arts and Technology students develop their creativity, problem solving and technical skills. They also investigate and understand the importance and impact of technology and the arts on our everyday lives, the broader community and the natural environment.

Subjects:

• Product Design and Technology – Wood, Metal and Textiles Visual Arts

Program features:

• dedicated facilities
• correct and safe use of tools and machinery
• design and drawing technique development
• a focus on design and construction toward a functional, aesthetically pleasing finished product
• studies in Painting, Print Making, Drawing, Sculpture, Ceramics, Digital Photography, Computer-Aided imagery, Media Studies
• learning and exploring new techniques to express individual themes and ideas through the making of art
• developing a portfolio of work and visual art diary
• studying a range of art periods and styles to complement practical assignments
• researching the work of Australian and International artists and studying their influences on artworks and art processes.

LANGUAGE - JAPANESE

Language learning is the key to enhancing the communication and understanding required to interact successfully and live harmoniously with all members of a global community.

Program features:

• skill development in reading, speaking, listening to and writing in a foreign language
• developing cultural understanding
• ‘language for every day life’ content
• development of presentation skills
• collaboration - partner and team work
• regular home revision
• annual Japanese Showcase Evening
• foreign language movies
• excursions
• possibility of cultural exchange to Japan and for Japanese students in return.

MUSIC

Music is an essential part of the human experience. The appreciation and study of it promotes holistic growth. Our classroom music program fosters the intellect, creativity, discipline, collaboration and metacognition of our students.

Program features:

• sequential learning from Years 7-12
• VCE Music Performance, VCE Music Investigation
• VET Music Industry
• Two ‘For One Night Only ‘ showcases of musicianship (FONO)

HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Melba students experience the physical, mental and social benefits of regular exercise in the company of others. It helps them develop the active lifestyle that will contribute to maintaining a healthy balanced life.

Program features:

• ball skills and game/match practice
• healthy lifestyle fundamentals education
• social and leadership development
• a wide range of sports and activities
• Year 7 immersion week Health program
• drug, lifestage, mental health and safe party education
• nutrition education
• Duke of Edinburgh Award program - Bronze award, including adventure activity.

ENGLISH AS AND ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE

This program caters for students with little, some or no exposure to English. It involves the development of listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.

Program features:

• reading, viewing, listening to, writing, creating, researching and talking about different text types
• a scope and sequence of skill development toward increasingly complex and abstract issues and ideas
• exploring texts and how meaning is conveyed
• developing critical and analytical thinking skills.