A SEAL student’s story: Maddie, 15, Year 10
At the end of Year 8, I realised there were a few vacant spots for the Year 9 SEAL program at my school. I thought it would be a more challenging environment for me and that I’d benefit from being in classes with like-minded students.
I put in an application, which was supported by my teachers, and was offered a place. I’m glad I made the decision.
SEAL classes are more intensive and move more quickly than mainstream classes. That is partly because the teachers don’t need to stop to explain as often as they do in mainstream groups. It is also a more cooperative environment.
I’m currently doing VCE Biology and Psychology and really enjoying them. There is an option to do university units in Year 12 but I’m not sure if I want to do that at this stage.
Expectations are high for SEAL students but I’m up for the challenge. It’s all been beneficial so far.
Seal also gives me opportunities that you don’t always get through mainstream learning, such as collaborating with like-minded driven peers, challenges, and for our cohort, the fantastic chance to travel to Europe with fellow SEAL students for an educational, memorable life experience.
My school is very supportive, challenging students and allowing us to be the best we can, while reminding students to be aware of the importance of a work/ life balance.
Since SEAL has given me an opportunity to be ahead of the cohort it has paid off in VCE and I have no doubt it will continue in tertiary education.
A SEAL parent’s story: Lucy, mother of Maddie
I was told Maddie was advanced from her earliest times in daycare and kindergarten.
She has always been academic and performed well at school, but I hadn’t heard of the SEAL program until she came home and told me she wanted to do it when she was finishing Year 8.
As Maddie is very diligent and has great attention to detail, SEAL is providing the challenges she needs at school. I have seen a few changes such as her dedication to strive for the best she can and rise to a challenge.
Maddie has always been very sensible and mature, and she continues to update me on the career path she wishes to follow and with the support of some terrific teachers in SEAL, she has gained more confidence to allow her to fulfil this.
