Fast track for learning

PARENTS are being urged to take a closer look at Emerald Secondary College’s new accelerated learning program
An information meeting is being held tomorrow (Wednesday) at 7pm at the school to outline how the program is going to work.
The school has been chosen for the Select Entry Accelerated Learning (SEAL) program and is now planning for its introduction next year.
Principal Wayne Burgess says it’s important that parents with children going into secondary education next year come to the meeting and find out how the system works.
The SEAL program gives gifted students the opportunity to finish their secondary education in four or five years.
Students are tested and selected for the program, which will give them the chance to finish their year seven to 10 studies in just three years.
Mr Burgess said the program could take a maximum of 25 students.
He said it is now important to let parents and future students know about the program.
Mr Burgess said it is also vital to make sure the students who enter the program are suited to it.
He said the school would be undertaking a rigorous testing process for those who want to enter the program.
“There will be an entrance test students need to sit, then we will have interviews with the parents and the students before any decisions are made,” Mr Burgess said.
He said the SEAL program would be a real boost for hills students because it will be the only accelerated learning program in the Dandenong Ranges.
“Students currently have to travel to Lilydale or Box Hill for this program,” he said.
Mr Burgess urges anyone interested in finding out more about the program to come to the meeting tomorrow or call Sandrine Prosser at the school on 5968 5388.