Structure of the VELS
The Victorian Essential Learning Standards are organised into three inter-related areas called ‘strands’. The content and skills covered in each of the strands are important to the development of well-rounded and confident young people. Learning that occurs within each strand includes:
Students learn about themselves and their place in society. They learn how to stay healthy and active. Students develop skills in building social relationships and working with others. They take responsibility for their learning, and learn about their rights and responsibilities as global citizens.
Students learn the knowledge, skills and behaviours in the arts, English, humanities, mathematics, science and other languages.
Students explore different ways of thinking, solving problems and communicating. They learn to use a range of technologies to plan, analyse, evaluate and present their work. Students learn about creativity, design principles and processes.
School programs
Teaching activities may draw on elements from each of the three strands so that learning becomes more meaningful for students. This integrated focus on knowledge, skills and behaviours in the process of physical, personal and social growth, in the disciplines and across the curriculum helps to develop deep understanding which students can transfer to new and different circumstances.
Schools are not required to offer exactly the same programs as each other and not all learning areas will appear as separate subjects on the school’s timetable. The VELS provide a guide for schools to design tailor-made programs that consider their students’ backgrounds and needs. Please contact individual school's for enquiries on how their curriculum programs meet the requirements of the standards.
