Learning Support & Enrichment

The learning support team at MLC places an emphasis on supporting the individual learning needs of students. We recognise that every student learns differently and we strive to tailor learning experiences to meet these individual needs. The learning support team works collaboratively with teachers and parents to provide an integrated support network that allows students to learn within the mainstream, providing special arrangements that focus on the growth of the individual and promote attitudes of self-worth and achievement.

Students needing extra help can be identified by self-referral, parent or teacher referral, testing or academic performance. To ensure students receive the support they need, each student's progress is monitored regularly, in consultation with classroom teachers and student co-ordinators.

Integration is the foundation of the hearing impaired program at MLC. Students with hearing difficulties are able to access mainstream classes and the vast range of the College’s curriculum options.

Each student’s needs are identified and specialised learning programs are implemented to develop effective language and communication. Hearing impaired students are given every opportunity to interact with all students at the College, and all major venues in the College are fitted with an audio loop system.

The College provides every hearing impaired student with:

• Deafness Studies programs and activities conducted by people who are deaf
• Regular audiological services and hearing aid maintenance by staff from Australian Hearing
• Individual speech therapy
• Liaison with the Cochlear Implant Clinic.

Through our English as an Additional Language (EAL) program we teach the English skills that students need to access the curriculum and offer a bridge into understanding not only the language, but also our education system and community.

By providing links with English curriculum requirements and clarifying what is happening in both the College and wider communities, EAL students are able to gain an in-depth and global understanding of the community around them.

Language proficiency is the key to success for EAL students. By providing a structured framework and varied language support options, students are able to develop the skills they need to realise their potential.

Eligibility for VCE EAL

International students are eligible to take EAL as a VCE subject if they satisfy the Victorian Board of Education eligibility requirements:

• The student has been a resident in Australia for not more than seven calendar years immediately prior to 1 January in which Year 12 English is begun
• English has been the student's major language of instruction for not more than seven years prior to the commencement of the year in which Year 12 English is begun