Support programs

Studying successfully by distance requires students to be independent, organised and motivated to succeed. As the DECV has an extremely diverse student cohort a number of Support Programs have been developed in order to assist students to develop these qualities.

Pastoral Care

Every student is assigned a Pastoral Care Teacher. The Pastoral Care teacher usually teaches the student for at least one of their subjects and takes a special interest in the student’s progress and wellbeing. The Pastoral Care teacher is in regular contact with the student and liaises with the Student Welfare Co-ordinator and the Subschool Student Managers as needed.

Pathways Planning

Additionally students in Years 10 through to 12 are contacted regularly in order to discuss the pathways that are available to them in order to achieve their future academic and vocational goals. This program is called Managed Individual Pathways Planning (MIPs)and is a DE&T initiative.

Small Talk

A specialised support program has been developed for students who are studying whilst pregnant and/or parenting. This program is called SmallTalk and consists of a team of designated Pastoral Care Teachers who work alongside the Student Welfare Co-ordinator. The SmallTalk team counsels students about subjects such as study load and where to turn for advice about relevant issues. There is also a webzine and protected chats and discussions.

Inmate Education

Students who wish to continue their studies whilst in prison or in Juvenile Justice centres are encouraged to do so through the DECV’s Inmate Education Program. Young offenders must be under 21 on enrolment. The Inmate Education Co-irdinator liaises with subject teachers and the Education Officers based in prisons. Tutoring visits are also organised when and where they are allowed within the regulations of the relevant institutions.