Changes for class of 2020

A MODIFIED curriculum spelling out how the remainder of the school year will run will be given to Tasmanian Year 11 and 12 students on their return to school next week.

The return to classroom learning for college-age students from Monday will bring with it a new approach to learning, with a suite of changes announced as Tasmanian schools cope with learning requirements during the pandemic.

Education Minister Jeremy Rockliff said the State Government had created a plan for senior students to return to school knowing they could still reach their goals.

“When Year 11 and 12 students return from Monday, they will work to a modified curriculum which clearly spells out what is needed from them for the remainder of the year, and how teachers can best support them in their learning,” he said.

The Office of Tasmanian Assessment, Standards and Certification website shows a string of changes to multiple courses.

The English Writing Level 3 course has reduced word length of assessments, while one assessment piece has been removed entirely. And the Chemistry Level 4 course recommends 25 hours — down from 40 — be spent engaged in practical activities.

“We have been working closely with all education stakeholder groups to address issues that may affect the attainment of the Tasmanian Qualifications Certificate, Tasmanian Certificate of Education and the calculation of ATAR scores,” Mr Rockliff said. “We have also made excellent progress updating examinations and assessments.

“For example, students in Accounting and Business Studies will sit modified exams with confidence knowing they can achieve a nationally recognised certificate.”

Written examinations will be held over the 10 days to November 19, with student results emailed on December 18.

Mr Rockliff said further details about end of year assessment for Years 11 and 12 would follow in the coming weeks.

Independent Schools Tasmania executive director Tony Crehan said the cross-sectoral plan to support students in their return to the classroom would create strong learning opportunities.

“There has been a joint party of stakeholders working on these modifications, and particularly in reaction to exams the work is still ongoing,” he said.

“I think we’re all working hard to make sure any anxieties from students and parents around missed learning can be alleviated.

“The care that has been taken to help Year 11 and 12 students particularly, working towards their TCE, has been very well supported by our sector.”

Information on course changes can be found at: https://www.tasc.tas.gov.au/continuity-of-learningin-2020/