What is the Bendigo Education Plan?

The Victorian Government is committed to transforming public education, giving young people the support, they need to become successful learners and equity of opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge and capabilities they need to thrive in the 21st century.

 The Bendigo Education Plan was launched in 2018 to deliver that vision locally.

The Plan was created to deliver a culture of educational excellence for the local community, while offering accessible, quality programs, pathways and facilities to students. The Plan aims to lift engagement and developmental outcomes in collaboration with business and industry partners and the community– this includes parents, families and educators.

 My child was accepted into the program. What happens next?

ADP staff will provide a list of requirements within each child’s acceptance email. Typically, these include: – Induction Evening (for new ADP families) – Attendance during transition and early commencement programs at the end of term four – Payment of fees (traditionally, required prior to the commencement of Term One each year). Additionally, successful applicants will be asked to sign a Student Athlete Agreement. This Agreement is designed to give student athletes participating in the ADP information about the academic, behavioural and participation expectations of the secondary schools running the program.

 My Child’s Sport is Not Listed?

Your child is eligible to apply for the ADP. The ADP offers two different enrolments for the ADP, one includes involvement in the ADP Technical Squads (Sports). The other, allows students without squad to engage with the theoretical and general physical preparation sessions, without the technical squad element. We encourage external coaches to contact the ADP to discuss the progress of their student-athletes within the program.

 My child was not successful in their application to the ADP. What are our options?

If your child’s application was not successful, you can get in touch with us to seek feedback via the email below. If your child wishes to apply for the following year, we can discuss options that will best support a new application.

 What will the average day look like for students involved in the program?

To support student athletes, the program focuses on linking and sport. This means a tailored approach to each student’s needs, passions and academic goals. Typically, students will complete two technical squad sessions at Bendigo South East College (BSE), two general physical preparation sessions at BSE and one theoretical session per week at the school they usually attend. Training times may vary slightly each year. Once we have more information on student transport and times, we will be able to advise students and parents.

 Does someone educate and guide students on how to use the gym equipment safely?

Students will be educated and guided on all activities and lifts. We are very strict on conduct and correct technique. Students do not progress until technique is correct. All staff are tertiary educated. A minimum Level 1 Strength & Conditioning qualification is held by all staff. Programs are written by a Level 2 qualified staff member.

 Is associate training just gym orientated or are other activities also available?

The Associate Program encompasses all aspects of the ADP. We do running drills and technique as well as core fitness exercises. Correct stretching and warm up procedures are also a focus. Strength and conditioning is our main focus. Students can link themselves to a sport squad.

 Are the classes structured or free choice?

Classes are structured-usually warm up/stretching, running drills, strength & conditioning-lifts, core, cool down.

 Are the classes supervised?

All classes are supervised. The ratio of 1 staff member to 10 students is adhered too.

 What are the pathway opportunities for students involved in the program?

The program provides student athletes with a specialised training and development environment to support both their academic and personal efforts required to reach their goals. We will work closely with each student to determine those goals, and provide supporting pathway and development opportunities, working with the ADP team, careers staff at your school and Bendigo Senior Secondary School.

 Is it safe to drop my student off in the carpark for early morning training sessions?

It is safe to drop students at the car park. Staff are present in the ADP Hub by 6:10am to make sure there is a staff member on site prior to any student arrival.

 How long do classes roughly run for before and after school please?

Each session usually lasts 1 hour. Pick up time for the afternoon session is 4:30pm Morning sessions are usually completed by 8:10am allowing students time to change and have breakfast prior to classes commencing.

 Do students who attend the morning session stay at school until school begins as we have work commitments also?

Students who attend morning sessions stay at school and have breakfast at the ADP Hub when training is completed. Breakfast is supplied.

 Do student wear the PE uniform for ADP Associates?

PE uniform is what students wear. There are other uniform options available for purchase but are not compulsory.

 How much does this program cost? What are my support options financially?

Costs for the program are in the process of being finalised and will be communicated to parents and students who have registered their expression of interest. Costs for the 2022 program are as follows. – Technical Squad Fee $780 – General Physical Preparation Fee $470 The Department’s Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund provides support for eligible students accessing the program. For information visit https://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/programs/Pages/csef.aspx

 I’m a coach and would love to be involved in the program. Is this possible?

Get in touch! We’d love to hear from you.

 Who can I talk to if I have further questions?

For queries about the Athlete Development Program please email: [email protected] For queries about the Bendigo Education Plan please email: [email protected].