The VELS Program

The VELS (Victorian Essential Learning Standards) Program, is a new approach to the Victorian curriculum from Prep to Year 10. The new Standards replace the Curriculum and Standards Framework ( CSF ) as the basis for curriculum and assessment in Victorian schools from 2006. The Standards have been developed by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority ( VCAA ) through extensive consultation and collaboration with education sectors and the broader community

Introduction to the Standards

The Victorian Essential Learning Standards describe what is essential for students to achieve from Years Prep to 10 in Victorian schools. They provide a whole school curriculum planning framework that sets out learning standards for schools to use to plan their teaching and learning programs, including assessment and reporting of student achievement and progress.

The Standards are based on the best practice in Victorian schools, national and international research and widespread consultation with school communities, educators, professional associations and community groups. The Standards provide the means for all Victorian schools to use the best curriculum thinking to better prepare students for success at school and beyond.

VELS Learning Dimensions

VELS describes three strands for school curriculum from Prep to Year 10. Each strand contains specific learning areas known as dimensions. These dimensions describe the essential knowledge, skills and behaviours that students need to prepare for further education, work and life.

1. Disciplinary Learning

English
LOTE
Maths
Science
Humanities
Economics
Geography
History
The Arts

2. Interdisciplinary learning

Communication
Design, Creativity and Technology
Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
Thinking Processes

3. Physical, Personal and Social Learning

Health and Phys Ed
Interpersonal Development (working in teams)
Personal Learning
Civics and Citizenship (community engagement)

official VELS site

To visit the official site at the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, click on the image below.