The Victorian Institute of English and Mathematics

08/09/2026

https://carlhendrick.substack.com/p/the-great-reading-recession?fbclid=IwdGRjcAUNeMdjbGNrBQ14HXBkb2YFZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMzUwNjg1NTMxNzI4AAEeOKlwg9o_24QSgPOPea8aaMsxAhT1RwQqdeJh1EBQgpaNA16kx-KT3fTmm98_aem_jyvaFph3Q48TER6_QON_-g&utm_id=97757_v0_s00_e0_tv2_a1demo0jqc62fs

The PISA decline is what happens when you prioritise skills over knowledge

04/09/2026

How VCE Students Can Reduce Exam Pressure

Feeling nervous before exams is normal. A manageable amount of stress can motivate you, but too much can affect your concentration, sleep and confidence.

Try these strategies:

1. Create a realistic study plan
Break each subject into small topics and plan short study sessions. Focus on what you can complete each day instead of worrying about the entire course.

2. Practise under exam conditions
Complete past questions within a time limit. This helps you become familiar with the exam format and reduces fear of the unknown.

3. Take regular breaks
Study for approximately 40–50 minutes, followed by a 5–10-minute break. Stand up, stretch, drink water or get some fresh air.

4. Protect your sleep
Avoid studying throughout the night. A rested brain remembers information and solves problems more effectively. Aim for a consistent bedtime.

5. Use positive self-talk
Replace thoughts such as “I am going to fail” with:
• “I have prepared, and I will do my best.”
• “One difficult question will not determine my result.”
• “My ATAR does not define my intelligence or future.”

6. Look after your body
1. Eat regular meals, drink enough water and include some physical activity each day. Limit excessive caffeine and energy drinks, particularly in the evening.
2. Avoid comparing yourself with others
Other students may exaggerate how much they have studied. Concentrate on your own progress and the areas you need to improve.
3. Use a calming breathing exercise
Breathe in slowly for four seconds, hold for two seconds and breathe out for six seconds. Repeat this several times before and during the exam.
4. Have an exam-day plan
Prepare your stationery, identification, water and travel arrangements the night before. Arrive early enough to settle calmly.
5. Ask for support
Speak to a parent, teacher, school counsellor or trusted adult if the pressure feels overwhelming. Asking for help is a responsible step, not a weakness.

During the Exam
• Read the instructions carefully.

• Begin with a question you feel confident
answering.

• Watch the time without checking the clock constantly.

• If you become stuck, move to another question and return later.

Leave a few minutes to check your answers.
Remember: An exam measures your performance on one particular day. It does not measure your complete ability, character or future potential. Prepare consistently, trust your effort and take one question at a time.

31/08/2026

"If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn," by Ignacio Estrada

29/08/2026

A wonderful student and a past teacher . Memories goes back to 2004. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EgVnr3tcJ/

I had the pleasure of being taught by Ms. Thanusha for several years, from year 5 to year 9, and I can confidently say that she is an exceptional English tutor. She has a gift for breaking down complex concepts into simple and easy-to-understand explanations, which made learning English enjoyable and accessible for me.

Not only was Ms. Thanusha an excellent teacher, but she was also a great mentor and role model. She encouraged me to read widely and write creatively, which helped me develop a love for English that has stayed with me to this day. Her dedication and passion for teaching were evident in every lesson, and I always felt motivated and inspired to learn more.

After finishing high school, I had the opportunity to work as a maths tutor for Ms. Thanusha, and she was an incredible boss. She was always supportive and understanding, and she provided me with the resources and guidance I needed to be successful in my role. She also had a talent for bringing out the best in her employees, and I felt valued and appreciated as part of her team.

Overall, Ms. Thanusha is an outstanding educator and leader, and I am grateful for the impact she has had on my life. I would highly recommend her as an English tutor or mentor to anyone looking to improve their language skills or develop their teaching abilities.

Senani Lelwala Gurugamage
Current Role: Quality Assurance Technician (GrainCorp Foods)
Qualifications: Bachelor of Science (Micr
obiology) and Master of Food Science and Agribusiness

28/08/2026

The significance of studying English lies in developing the ability to read, understand and communicate confidently. English is widely regarded as a universal language because it enables people of different nationalities to connect, regardless of their native language, religion, gender, social class or age. It creates a common ground for communication, education and mutual understanding.

28/08/2026

These messages are treasures to me. They are beautiful reminders of how important it is for every child to feel loved, valued and supported.
Children learn best when they feel safe when they know they will not be condemned, criticised or compared with others. When we show patience and kindness, children gradually gain the confidence to open up, ask questions and approach their teacher whenever they need clarity.
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, practise and grow at their own pace. For some, applying what they have learnt may come naturally. Others may need additional guidance, encouragement and time. As a teacher, it is both my responsibility and my privilege to walk beside them throughout that journey.
Academic achievement is important, but helping a child feel seen, understood and capable is equally valuable. Notes like these remind me why teaching is such a blessing and why I continue to give my heart to every child entrusted to my care.

26/08/2026

My greatest passion as a teacher has always been to help every child recognise their strengths and reach their personal potential.

Education is not simply about lessons, examinations or grades. It is about nurturing confidence, developing strong values and equipping children with skills and habits that they can carry throughout their lives. It is truly wonderful to see what students have learned being remembered, practised and implemented many years later.

One of my greatest blessings is seeing so many children whom I once taught grow into accomplished, kind and positive citizens who contribute meaningfully to our community.

Dylan’s story is particularly inspiring. From beginning his journey with VIEM in Grade 2 to completing Honours in Biomedicine at Monash University, his achievements reflect his dedication, perseverance and commitment to learning. To know that the encouragement, guidance and educational foundation he received at VIEM played a part in his journey fills my heart with gratitude and pride.

Thank you, Dylan, for sharing these beautiful words after 16 years. Your story is a reminder of why I chose to become a teacher and why I continue to teach with such passion.

May you continue to grow, succeed and inspire others. Your VIEM family is incredibly proud of you.

— Ms Thanusha
The Victorian Institute of English and Mathematics

19/08/2026

To encourage a love of reading and strengthen vocabulary, comprehension and writing skills, I recommend that students in Years 3 and 4 regularly read a variety of classic children’s books.
Please help your child select books that are appropriate for their reading ability. More challenging books may be read together with an adult or enjoyed as audiobooks.

Suggested books include:

Year 3:

• The Magic Faraway Tree — Enid Blyton
• The Enchanted Wood — Enid Blyton
• Winnie-the-Pooh — A. A. Milne
• The Worst Witch — Jill Murphy
• Flat Stanley — Jeff Brown
• The Twits — Roald Dahl
• Fantastic Mr Fox — Roald Dahl
• The BFG — Roald Dahl
• Mr. Popper’s Penguins — Richard and Florence Atwater
• The Hundred Dresses — Eleanor Estes

Year 4:

• Charlotte’s Web — E. B. White
• Stuart Little — E. B. White
• The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe — C. S. Lewis
• The Secret Garden — Frances Hodgson Burnett
• Black Beauty — Anna Sewell
• Heidi — Johanna Spyri
• The Wonderful Wizard of Oz — L. Frank Baum
• Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland — Lewis Carroll
• The Jungle Book — Rudyard Kipling
• The Borrowers — Mary Norton
• The Little Prince — Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

I encourage each child to choose at least one book from this list and read for approximately 15–20 minutes each day. Please discuss the story, characters and new vocabulary with your child to help deepen their understanding.

Together we can support your child’s reading journey.

17/08/2026