Year 11 VCE High School Guide for Parents

Manoj Arachige -

What to expect

Year 11 marks the beginning of a significant stage in your child’s educational journey, as they venture into the world of VCE. Transitioning into VCE brings a noticeable increase in academic rigour and expectations. While Year 11 results do not directly contribute to an ATAR, the year serves as the foundation for success in Year 12. The primary focus should be on developing strong study habits and routines.

What’s different about Year 11?

  • Increased responsibility: Teachers encourage students to take ownership of their learning, from managing homework to seeking extra help when needed.
  • Balancing priorities: Students often juggle schoolwork with part-time work, extracurricular activities, and social commitments. Time management is a crucial skill.
  • Preparation for Year 12: Year 11 provides a "safe space" to experiment with study techniques and understand what works best before experiencing the more intense Year 12 workload.

What does your child learn?

How the VCE is structured

VCE subjects are divided into units, which comprise a semester of study each. This means your child will typically complete Units 1 & 2 in Year 11, and then Units 3 & 4 in Year 12.

VCE requirements

  • Satisfactory completion of 16 Units, including:
    • At least 3 sequences of Unit 3 & 4 subjects (Year 12 level)
    • At least 3 units from an English subject, with 2 at Units 3&4 level
  • Satisfactory completion of Units 1&2 is determined by the teacher and reported to the VCAA (Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority) as either an S (Satisfactory) or N (Not Satisfactory)

It is important to note that:

  • There is no mathematics requirement in VCE
  • Students do not have to sit examinations to receive their VCE

Selecting subjects

One of the best parts of VCE is that there’s increased flexibility when it comes to picking subjects. English is the core compulsory subject, and students can choose from:

  • Mainstream English
  • English Language
  • Literature

Depending on what is offered by your school, elective subjects are grouped by broad study areas and include (but aren’t limited to):

  • STEM Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics (Foundation, General, Methods, or Specialist).
  • Humanities: History, Geography, Legal Studies, Global Politics
  • Commerce: Business Management, Economics, Accounting
  • Arts and Creative Subjects: Studio Art, Drama, Music, Media.

With such a variety of subjects available to choose from, it can often be difficult for your child to choose. As a general guide, they should base this decision on subjects that they:

  • Enjoy
  • Are interested in learning about
  • Need for their desired career path or university prerequisites

Tip: Common prerequisite subjects for STEM courses include Mathematical Methods and Chemistry. It’s worth researching requirements for specific degrees early on. 

How are assessments and exams structured?

Year 11 assessments, while school-based, follow a common framework set by the VCAA. For each subject, the study content is completely prescribed under a syllabus known as a ‘study design’, which can be accessed via the VCAA website.

The study design lists key knowledge and content grouped into Units 1 & 2, and then into distinct Areas of Study. Assessments are dependent on the school and may include in-class assessments (sometimes known as SACs), examinations, assignments, and practical assessments.

Impact on ATAR

As mentioned previously, Year 11 results do not directly contribute to the calculation of an ATAR, however, it is still important! Units 1&2 provide an excellent opportunity to establish routines and practise effective study methods. It is important to understand how the ATAR works for VCE, and how it is calculated in Year 12.

How to support your child through VCE

Parents play a crucial role in fostering student success. Here’s how you can be a positive influence:

1. Establish a Conducive Study Environment:

  • Create a quiet, organised space free from distractions like TV or social media.
  • Provide necessary supplies, including a laptop, stationery, and a comfortable chair.

2. Encourage Good Time Management:

  • Teach your child to prioritise tasks and break homework into manageable parts.
  • Help them create a study timetable that balances study, fun activities, and sleep.

3. Foster a Healthy Lifestyle:

  • Ensure your child eats well and gets sufficient physical activity.
  • Encourage consistent sleep patterns to support mental clarity and focus.

4. Provide Emotional Support:

  • Celebrate small wins to keep their motivation high.
  • Listen actively to their challenges and reassure them that setbacks are a part of the learning process.

5. Advocate for Additional Help When Needed:

  • Encourage them to ask questions in class and seek clarification from teachers.
  • Explore tutoring options if they’re struggling with specific subjects.

How KIS Academics can help

KIS Academics specialises in providing tailored tutoring support for VCE students. Whether your child is aiming for top marks or just needs a confidence boost, our expert tutors can make a significant difference.

Why Choose KIS Academics?

  • Experienced tutors: All our tutors excel in the subjects they teach and understand VCE requirements inside out.
  • Personalised approach: Sessions are tailored to your child’s unique learning style and goals.
  • Convenient online or in-person sessions: Flexible scheduling to suit busy families.

Explore our find a tutor page to learn how we can help your child succeed.

Ultimately, while academic performance is important, emotional support is equally vital. Celebrate their achievements, be there during setbacks, and remind them that Year 11 is just one step in their lifelong journey.

Want more personalized study guidance to help support your child achieve their academic potential? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!

Written by Charlie Goldsworthy, VCE & High School Mathematics tutor at KIS Academics. Charlie is currently studying a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics & Statistics at the University of Melbourne. You can read Charlie’s profile and reviews here and request him as a tutor. 🚀v