Vertical structure

Students at BSC are not restricted by traditional year levels. From Years 8–10,

classes are vertical, meaning they have students from different year levels. This vertical offering of subjects creates student’s choice. It provides flexibility in the learning program ensuring that all students are engaged in their learning at their point of interest and challenged at their point of need. For example, students in the middle years may undertake subjects from the traditional suite of subjects as well as from the Senior Programs of VCE, VET, VM and University courses. 

 

When we say we are different at Bundoora, we really do mean it.

We offer innovative, integrated subject offerings such as Human Sciences,

Working with Wilderness, Game Development, Make It!, Farm to Fork and

"How Do I Turn My Idea Into a Business?"

These subjects are designed to equip students with the creativity, adaptability a

nd skills needed to thrive in

a fast-changing world.

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We’re invested in shifting students from being passive consumers to active producers—innovators who develop sustainable and socially responsible solutions.

 

To support this, students have access to an impressive range of advanced facilities and technologies, including: A full suite of 3D printers (including clay 3D printers), CNC machines and laser cutters, Virtual Reality .tools, machine rooms and a ceramics studio.

 

Beyond the classroom, our working farm uses sustainable and cutting-edge practices to teach food cultivation and animal care. We can offer real world experiences, qualifications and future-focused learning.

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Accelerated Learning Opportunities

Our vertical curriculum model provides flexibility to accelerate students with high

capabilities, allowing them to engage with more advanced content when they are

ready. In addition, students can access extension and enrichment opportunities

through our REACH program, designed to fast-track learning and deepen engagement.

Early access to VCE subjects is available (in year 8) based on academic performance

and staff recommendations.

We also provide opportunities to undertake first-year university subjects while still in

secondary school. This initiative, known as the "Step Up" program.

 

SENIOR STUDY OPTIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS

VCE, VCE VM and VET explained.

Students in Victoria have multiple pathways to choose from in their senior secondary years. The VCE offers a traditional academic route, the VCE VM provides a vocational and applied learning pathway, and VET offers practical skills training within both. 

 

VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education):

• Academically focused, the VCE is a two-year program that offers a wide range of subjects, including both academic and vocational options. 

• Students can choose subjects that lead to a study score, which can be used for university entry (ATAR). 

• VCE students can also undertake VET programs as part of their VCE, gaining both academic and vocational qualifications. 

• Bundoora Secondary College offers a wide range of subjects to support students through their academic focused pathways, including but not limited to English, Math Methods, Specialist Math, Physics, Chemistry and Biology.

• Bundoora has a range of connections and programs with universities to support student university pathways:

  • La Trobe University (2km away) – partnerships through the Aspire program

  • Deakin University – Accelerate early course access

  • Melbourne University - Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program

  • RMIT University (3.5km away) – Partnerships and STEM programs

  • Swinburne University - Innovation Challenge, Children’s University

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VCE VM (Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major):

• VCE VM is a vocational and applied learning program designed to prepare students for employment through various pathways, including apprenticeships, traineeships, further education, and university through non-ATAR pathways. 

• It includes a focus on literacy, numeracy, work-related skills, and personal development. 

• VCE VM students must complete at least 180 hours of VET (see below), developing hands-on skills and industry knowledge. 

• Assessments are typically through school based activities and projects

• VCE VM does not provide study scores for the ATAR (University Entry), but students can still pursue other VCE subjects and VET units as part of their program. 

 

VET (VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING):

• VET provides students with practical skills and knowledge in a specific industry, such as hospitality, automotive, or construction. 

• VET programs can be undertaken as part of the VCE or VCE VM, or as a standalone qualification. 

• VET can lead to nationally recognized qualifications and may contribute to the VCE or VCE VM. 

• VET can be a pathway to apprenticeships, traineeships, further education, and direct employment, and delivered in various settings, including schools, TAFEs, and other training providers. 

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Pathways Learning and Wellbeing (PAL) Mentor

Each student is guided throughout their learning, subject selection and pathways by their PAL Mentor, who is like their own personal careers counsellor. Our conversation with students is about their learning starts with what their passions are, and what they would like to learn. Learning plans are tailored to foster student agency and growth, with high expectations and a strong focus on developing a growth mindset. The individual pathway plans are flexible and can change from year to year. We also work backwards from the senior curriculum to map out the learning. All learning plans require a partnership with the student’s PAL Mentor and parent/guardian.