SEAL Overview 

SEAL is a Program for the top 5 – 10% of students. Research has consistently documented that these students learn best when placed with their intellectual peers. Ability grouping with adjusted content and pace is the single most successful way of providing for the academic and social needs of gifted students.

Since 2004, Warrnambool College has conducted a Select Entry Accelerated Learning (SEAL) Program for students with exceptional academic ability. Warrnambool College is one of a small number of schools in Victoria who have been accredited by the Department of Education and Training to offer a SEAL Program and the only school in the south-west to be a member of The Academy of Accredited SEAL Schools. There is ample evidence of the emotional and social advantages that are inherent in curricula tailored to the needs of talented learners.

The Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program allows students to progress through their secondary education more quickly by providing challenging learning experiences that are more tailored to the needs of talented learners. There is a greater emphasis on higher order thinking and learning skills and independent learning and research. Course content is compacted so that a normal year 7-10 program is covered more quickly without omitting anything. The accelerated program contains much less repetition. These students just don’t need it, as opposed to mainstream classes, where repetition is a normal part of the learning process. Enrichment is provided by broadening content, understanding, experience and skills to a level appropriate to the students’ stages of development. Extension leads to in-depth study and the integration and application of knowledge at a deeper level. 

Warrnambool College altered the structure of the SEAL program for students who commenced in 2021. This structure aligns with all other accredited schools in Victoria.

As part of the SEAL Program students administratively complete Years 7, 8, 9 and 10. In Years 7, 8 and 9 they are in a class together. In Year 10 they may undertake some core classes together, but are able to choose from the wide elective range. Strong students are then able to complete one or two VCE unit 1 & 2 subjects, thus accelerating their academic progress. Due to the additional units studied, students may include a TAFE subject, School Based Apprenticeship or University subject in their senior school program.