At Woodvale we recognise each student as an individual and foster an innovative learning environment for all students to develop into effective young adults. We aim for every Woodvale student to leave with a comprehensive portfolio inclusive of academic performance, character profile, co-curricular experience, and service engagement to prepare them for navigating the ever-changing world. There is a deep commitment from the executive team, classroom teachers and support staff, to provide the best possible learning environment to all students. Equally there is a deep commitment to ensure that every student’s healthy wellbeing is at the forefront of our decision making.
Woodvale’s values of respect, responsibility and relationships are well-established and revisited with students consistently. Students are offered leadership opportunities including opportunities for student voice at Board, year group and community levels. The launch of our Co-Curricular Program in 2020 has shifted students’ thinking with regards to the opportunities available to them.
Students are taught strong study and organisational skills to ensure they have the skills to succeed in secondary schooling and their future pathway. In 2021, Year 12 students recorded a median ATAR of 82.1. VET achievement has long been a standout success of our College with 73% of Year 12 students in 2021 completing a VET certificate. Students are able to complete Certificates internally or with an established Registered Training Organisation.
Woodvale is at the forefront of the integration of ICT into teaching and learning. Students make use of online resources in day to day activities around the College including pre-recorded lessons for revision or flipped learning and VR for 3D worlds. Our one to one laptop program enables teachers to deliver curriculum in innovative and challenging ways to students. Students develop skills of self-management, technology capability, information literacy and communication. Students have access to SEQTA and feel comfortable directly messaging their teachers for support. They can engage in online lessons and resources which has been integral to support their learning during COVID.
Woodvale staff work closely with parents and teachers to support students becoming skilled at self-management, self-regulation and being able to respond positively to feedback. A commitment to the monitoring and enhancement of student and staff wellbeing has been a school priority for six years, across two business plans. Our famous greyhound dogs are popular with students during break times and assist with student wellbeing.
Woodvale staff pride themselves on their level of monitoring and support of SEN (Students with Special Educational Needs). Where at all possible, students are provided with an IEP that supports teachers and students in a fair and consistent manner across all areas of learning. In addition to IEPs and EA support, students have access to our laptop program and assistive technologies including the Word Q program and C-pens for students with severe issues with reading and/or writing; our 1:1 Reading Support Program for our students who need extra assistance with reading (based on classroom and NAPLAN results); and small classes for Essential students in Years 8 – 10 for students who need extra academic support in MESH subjects. Students can also make use of the sensory room which has been designed for students experiencing sensory or emotional overwhelm to de-escalate before re-engaging with the classroom.