The University High School

ellence. The catalyst for all change will be the evaluation and critical reflection of current practices and policies to further improve the learning outcomes for students. Common foundation studies in years 7 & 8 are succeeded by a structure of core and elective subjects in years 9 &10. These elective studies provide an opportunity for new experiences or for consolidating and developing areas of special interest. Students are encouraged to participate in all aspects of the formal curriculum and other related activities and recognition is given to both outstanding achievement and participation. Both the formal and extra curricular activities cater for a wide range of students' interests and abilities and student participation at all levels is encouraged. VCE results are consistently outstanding and the School community has an expectation that students will continue to achieve at a high level in a wide variety of situations when they leave the School. The majority of students pursue tertiary studies, but many others feel confident to choose from a variety of other pathways after completing their VCE. The School's program of Accelerated Learning for gifted students operates across the full breadth of the curriculum. This pioneer program was developed after several years of research initiated by the Department of Education, and it remains a model for like programs offered elsewhere in Australia . The Music program also operates across the full breadth of the curriculum and all students are encouraged to participate in the instrumental music program. Some 350 students currently receive instrumental tuition and perform in one or more of the School's twelve orchestras, bands and choirs. Earlier additions to the School's basic facilities include a hall, a gymnasium, a canteen and a music wing. There has been an augmentation of classrooms and science and computer laboratories. Recreational areas and the oval have been refurbished. A Performance Centre and a fully equipped technology wing have been created. These resources enable the School to continue to provide a rich educational experience

In 2004 the Gene Technology Access Centre was opened. This 6.2 million dollar purpose built facility offers interactive learning to students and teachers, in the public and private school sectors, on a statewide basis.