URGENT UPDATE: Victorian students are diving into their academic year early, as numerous secondary schools commence what is known as Term 1A, or the Early Commencement Period (ECP). While many students are enjoying summer break, schools like Haileybury and Ivanhoe Grammar have already kicked off classes for the next academic year, starting this week.
This early start is aimed at keeping students engaged and prepared for their upcoming studies. According to Nick Grigsby, deputy principal at Haileybury, students will begin their 2026 Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) classes on Monday. “We have about four weeks where we begin the new calendar year in this academic year,” he stated.
Among the students participating in this initiative is Coco Pearce, a Year 9 student at Ivanhoe Grammar. She shared, “I like it. I get to have a feel of what it’s like before other people.” After a week of transitioning classes, Coco is excited to tackle the first topics of her 2026 Year 10 curriculum. Although she anticipates an assignment before the year ends, she noted it won’t significantly impact her grade.
Schools are extending their transition periods to four or five weeks to further engage students, with many opting for summer programs. Grigsby highlighted that numerous students have been studying through the summer holidays, taking advantage of online courses designed to support their academic goals.
This development is garnering attention as schools aim to provide structure during a time when many students might otherwise be disengaged. The push for early academic participation is met with mixed reactions from families, emphasizing the balance between education and well-deserved downtime.
As the new academic year unfolds, parents and students are encouraged to weigh the benefits of this early engagement against the need for relaxation and personal time. For those eager for a head start, the ECP presents a unique opportunity to get ahead in their studies.
Stay tuned for more updates as schools across Victoria continue to implement these early commencement strategies, shaping the future of education in the state.
