CHOOSING SUBJECTS OUTSIDE OF YOUR TRADITIONAL YEAR LEVEL
In the My Salesian Passport program, it will be normal for students to select subjects that are above or below their traditional year level equivalent. This is to allow students to progress through subjects at a pace that suits their individual abilities and interests.
This approach aims to maximise student engagement, foster autonomy, and support the pursuit of mastery in chosen subjects. Students are encouraged to choose subjects that align with their stage of learning and readiness, rather than simply their age.
Here's an overview of how this works in the MSP system:
One-year difference
If a student chooses a subject one year above their age-based year level, this will be discussed with their Oratory Leader as part of the subject selection counselling process. They do not need to go through a formal application process. They can simply select the subject as part of their learning pathway, provided they have the prerequisite knowledge or skills.
Two-year acceleration
If a student wishes to take a subject that is two years above their age-based year level, they need to apply for acceleration. Eligibility criteria include strong academic performance, teacher recommendation, evidence of work ethic and self-discipline, and a meeting with their Oratory Leader. Once these criteria are met, the student can be enrolled in the advanced subject.
VCE subjects
Students are expected to complete the Focus or Reach equivalent (Year 10 or Year 10 extension level) before accelerating into a Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) subject. The same acceleration application process applies for students wishing to take a MSP subject two years above their age-based year level.
Support and course planning
The college provides strong course planning advice and support through the Oratory program and new course planning tools designed for the MSP system. This ensures that students and families can make well-informed decisions regarding acceleration and subject choices.
CASE STUDY: OLIVIA
See how a Year 3 student uses the flexibility of MSP to explore her interests and prepare for acceleration.
Olivia
Year 3 (Traditional Year 9) • Engage Stage
Olivia's Story
- Olivia is in Year 3 of the My Salesian Passport program (Year 9 in the traditional school model). She is doing well in English and she thinks the Focus English True Crime unit would be a good way to extend her English skills.
- Olivia is particularly interested in Science and Technology and wants to accelerate to a VCE Science subject in Year 4. She is keen to complete the Explore Rocketry and Drones subject but was not able to fit it within her Year 2 program last year.
- In this example, Olivia is choosing two Focus subjects that match her interests and, in the case of Biology, her plan to accelerate into VCE in the following year.
- She has also chosen an Explore subject that matches her particular interest in this area and which will build her skills in Science and Engineering.
Olivia's Year 3 Subjects
Ready to explore your options?
Browse our subjects to find opportunities for acceleration and see what's available at each level.