Special VCE Arrangements

Media Release, Independent Schools Victoria, 11 February 2010

Each year the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) recognises that students adversely affected by illness, disability or other factors might require special Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) examination arrangements.

Examples include cerebral palsy, a broken arm, vision or hearing impairment, a significant learning disability or family bereavement. Special arrangements might include extra reading or writing time, rest breaks and permission to use a computer for students with a disability.

In a media release on 11 February 2010, VCAA Chief Executive Officer, Mr John Firth, said that special provision for VCE students increased slightly in 2009 as additional approvals were given to students affected by the Black Saturday bushfires.

Mr Firth said that:

• all applications for special provision are rigorously assessed by an independent, expert panel using objective criteria
• each application is considered individually
• a student's school has no bearing on the decision of the panel
• the VCAA's system ensures all applications are treated equally – irrespective of the school of origin, the reason for the application or the nature of the special provision sought.

The Chief Executive of Independent Schools Victoria, Ms Michelle Green, said that the special examination provisions are designed so that students with particular needs are in a position to demonstrate what they know and can do.

‘Teachers at independent schools work closely with individual students and are well placed to identify any potential need for them to apply for special consideration. Teachers become very fine-tuned to any condition that might hinder a child's performance and they are conscientious in ensuring that their students are fairly treated.’

Ms Green said that schools must provide the VCAA with a wide range of evidence, which is assessed on its merits by an independent panel and the schools are not identified.  Apart from providing supporting medical, psychological and educational documentation, the school has no input and cannot influence the decision.

Parents are encouraged to discuss this issue with their child’s teacher.

The VCAA website has more details.

 

 

Back to News Page