With their school year now officially completed, Year 12 students will experience a blend of emotions; happily leaving behind embarrassing yearbook photos, classroom pranks and late nights spent in additional study. Yet it will be a time of excitement, planning and preparation as they adjust to life as a young adult, some transitioning into the community as tertiary students and others entering the workforce.

This year Heritage College students have chosen between academic pathways with subjects in VCE (including Biology, Psychology and Human Health and Development) whilst others have chosen to take a more practical pathway undertaking combined VCAL and VET studies of trades-based disciplines including mechanics and electrical engineering. One of our VCAL/VET pathway students has completed studies in Cert III in Sport and recreation via Chisholm TAFE (Berwick Campus) with plans to further studies and proceed to a Bachelor program in teaching. Other students are choosing to take a gap year as they consider their options in further studies or moving into the workforce.

VCAL students have delivered some major projects during the course of this year, including installing a working fountain in the school dam and timber stairs down to the deck outside food tech area. Some of our VCAL students already have plans to continue onto apprenticeships in mechanical and electrical disciplines and community services.

Year 12 Level Leader Elyse Taylor said,

‘I know that all of our students will go on to achieve great things and I’m proud that they are seeking to use their individual strengths. My hope is that they will take something away from their time at Heritage that enriches their life experiences in the future’.

What Heritage College means to our students

Our year 12 students were asked what they would remember most fondly about their time at the College and how it will help them launch into their areas of further interest and study. School Captain Simridhi, said she would remember 'memories with the best people, all filled with love and laughter'. VCAL student Ashleigh, completing Senior VCAL with a Certificate in Community Services, is looking forward to doing some volunteering work next year while she obtains more experience.

Deputy Principal, Secondary, Mr. Darren Martin said of this year’s cohort:

‘It has been fantastic to see this year’s graduating class really raise the bar in terms of leaving a legacy. We value the addition that 2018’s cohort has made to the culture of our College.’

Bright futures

With great results in previous years and a high track record of attaining preferences, Heritage College students face the prospect of bright futures. With a values-based education supporting their efforts, our students are sought after in the workplace for their participation and excellence in extra-curricular activities through internationally recognised awards. The Duke of Edinburgh award has partnerships with a number of employers who recognise work-ready candidates with experience and skills from participation in award activities, such as team-building and leadership.

Heritage College has strong partnerships with local tertiary providers including Federation Uni and Chisholm TAFE for students wishing to continue their study locally.

Alumni program awaits

Our graduates can also look forward to participating in the Alumni program. Since its inception, Heritage College has graduated hundreds of successful students and this year sees the launch of the Alumni program, with members receiving invitation to annual gatherings, opportunities, benefits and awards. We look forward to keeping in contact with all of our graduating students and stay up to date with their achievements.

Our Year 12 students for 2018 are invited to register at our Alumni page. Sign up and recommend a new name for our Alumni program!