Luther College Prospectus

Thank you for considering Luther College for your child.

I am proud to lead a team of exceptional staff who are passionate about the education of young people.

At Luther College, your child will receive a Lutheran education which recognises and nurtures the distinct link between pastoral care, wellbeing, and student learning outcomes. Our approach goes beyond academic excellence, focusing on shaping well-rounded individuals who are future ready.

A Luther College education focuses on the whole child.

We know that young people learn best when they feel safe, comfortable and connected in an atmosphere that is nurturing yet challenging and motivating. The college’s programs offer rich, personalised learning experiences embedded in a contemporary and innovative curriculum that encourages student agency and ownership.

Luther College is an exciting place to be as we forge a path to the future and support our students in the development of their God-given gifts and abilities. We give thanks for God’s grace and the abundant blessings which gives shape to our present day and supports our future development.

Together we will help your child develop a love of learning that will last a lifetime.

I look forward to meeting you.

Ms Jacqui Layfield Principal

Our Story

Fifty-three students started their secondary school journey at Luther College on Tuesday the 11th of February 1964. Now, over sixty years later, we continue to provide educational excellence and outstanding opportunities for young people.

Led by Pastor Walter Paech, the college was established by the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Australia (ELCA) as part of a national strategy to expand the church’s provision of schooling. Our extensive 30-hectare site in Croydon Hills was the perfect location for the third Lutheran school in Australia and the first in Victoria.

Named after Martin Luther, a prominent sixteenth century priest, theologian, advocate and teacher, the college opened with a handful of classrooms, a hall, an administration area, two boarding houses, a service building and residences.

Foundation Headmaster Pastor John Paech, his wife Edna and a team of loyal and dedicated staff, were guided by curriculum that included Doctrine, Mathematics, Science,

History, Geography, Latin, German, Art, Typing and Shorthand and Music along with athletics, tennis, cricket, softball and a number of clubs.

Named after local waterways, Warran and Yarra were the college’s foundation Houses. As enrolments grew our Houses expanded to six, with Birt, Cheong, Nelson, Warran, Wicklow and Yarra providing pastoral care for every student.

Lutheran schools educate over 40,000 students throughout Australia, and even more internationally. Known for delivering a values-based education for the whole child, Luther College is proud to be part of Lutheran Education Australia.

The Luther College crest and motto were developed by our founders in 1962, along with the school colours of blue, red and white.

Written in Latin, the college motto, Unctio Eius Docet, was taken from 1 John 2:27 which indirectly translates to The Holy Spirit is our Teacher

These words remind us that we operate under the guidance and teaching of the Holy Spirit.

Our crest incorporates a shield with an open Bible, a dove, and a scroll bearing the college motto. The letters on the Bible, Alpha and Omega, are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet and refer to the beginning and the end, a name given to Christ.

The open Bible symbolises the source of all learning while the dove symbolises the Holy Spirit and the shield represents faith.

Mission and Ministry

Luther College, as a school of the Lutheran Church of Australia, shares a recognisable Lutheran identity in which the gospel of Jesus Christ informs all teaching and learning, relationships, and activities across the school.

Our community is actively involved in Christian worship with regular devotions and Christian Studies which are a distinctive part of the curriculum.

Luther College values the richness and diversity of the wider community and lives out the gospel in active service of others. The multi-cultural and multi-faith nature of Lutheran education welcomes and fosters understanding of diverse cultures.

Lutheran education promotes the understanding of, and respect for, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Luther College is supported by Lutheran Education Australia (LEA) and Lutheran Education Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania (LEVNT).

Chapel Program

Our Chapel program offers students a variety of engaging ways to participate in worship. Delivered by a range of presenters including our Chaplain, staff, students and visitors, the program is contemporary and offers students time and space to reflect. Luther College deliberately and intentionally shares and lives the good news of Jesus Christ with students, families, staff and the broader community. Opportunities for faith nurture are actively promoted and maintained.

Australian Lutheran World Service

The Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, ‘Let there be light.’

Genesis 1: 2, 3

The Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) is the overseas aid and development agency of the Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand. It provides programs which welcome, respect and bring hope through care to those fleeing from, or hurt by, disaster, conflict, poverty, or oppression.

Luther College is a proud supporter of ALWS and participates in fundraising year-round.

Our Mission

Preparing students for life through Christ.

Our Vision

Exceptional teaching and learning will enable our students to confidently contribute to community.

Excellence

Learning to improve. Achieving personal bests while striving for the highest quality outcome.

Our Values

Integrity

Learning to be. Developing qualities of the whole person that have high moral value.

Service Learning to contribute. Using one’s gifts for the benefit of others.

Creativity

Learning to explore. Being curious, questioning assumptions and using imagination to experiment.

Community Learning together. Skilled at living and working with others.

Strategic Goals

As we step boldly forward to meet the needs of our students in the global future context, Luther College is guided by the Exceptional Futures Strategic Plan.

In this age of technology and globalisation, we recognise the rate of exponential change and its impact on education. To meet this challenge, we are increasingly growing our innovation capacity, developing the skills of our staff and partnering with industry experts.

Luther College is empowering students to be citizens of change, global stewards and community builders, as they develop the sense of agency they need to reshape the world.

The college has set three significant, overarching goals:

Goal One

Drive innovative, contemporary teaching and learning.

Goal Two

Build a culture of inclusivity and equal opportunity.

Goal Three

Promote sustainable practices.

To read the Exceptional Futures Strategic Plan visit our website. www.luther.vic.edu.au

Innovating for the future

As educators, our challenge is how best to change and improve the quality of teaching and learning in order to prepare our young people to be passionate and effective global contributors in the evolving landscape.

Luther College has a thriving organisationwide innovation strategy for developing the characteristics of risk-taking, flexibility, creativity and continual improvement. Our approach encourages staff and students to contribute, inviting them to develop, present and trial ideas, concepts and strategies for future implementation.

The Teaching Excellence Development (TED) Hub and Advanced Support Program and Individual Recognition of Excellence (ASPIRE) are two key programs derived from our innovation strategy.

Teaching Excellence Development (TED) Hub

The TED Hub, led by a team of creative and innovative educators, works collaboratively with staff across the college to develop and share research, ideas and creative insights. With the continual evolution of education, the Hub uses best practice research both nationally and internationally to inform our teaching and learning strategy. At Luther College we are getting future-ready now.

ASPIRE

The Advanced Support Program and Individual Recognition of Excellence (ASPIRE) identifies, supports and recognises students who are pursuing performance excellence in the fields of Performing Arts or Sport. The program feeds identified students into our pastoral care team to provide support while they combine their performance or sporting commitments with their academic pursuits.

ASPIRE students have access to personal development opportunities through participation in the Thrive Global program at the Monash Business School as well as a number of workshops and guest speakers designed to help build mindset skills and an understanding of high-performance psychology.

Partnerships

In this age of globalisation, our curriculum and pedagogy are continually evolving, enriched by collaborations with key partners.

The college has established international partnerships with sister schools, Nanjing Number 12 Middle School in China and Evangelisches Gymnasium Hermannswerder in Germany. Both of these partnerships provide our students the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, traditions, lifestyles and global issues, as well as enhance their language skills. Mutual school visits are also a highlight, with additional opportunities for a two-week reciprocal homestay in Germany.

Our long established partnership with Yirara College provides opportunities for our students to travel to Alice Springs annually as part of the Year 11 Aboriginal Cultural Studies unit. Yirara College is a boarding school for Indigenous students run by the Finke River Mission, an arm of the Lutheran Church of Australia. Luther College staff also have the opportunity to work at Yirara College.

As part of our innovation strategy, the college has developed partnerships with The University of Melbourne, Monash Business School and Deakin University. Our commitment to building mutually beneficial partnerships is a priority.

Teaching and Learning

Learning at Luther prepares young people for life.

We know that young people learn best when they feel safe, comfortable and connected in an atmosphere that is nurturing, yet challenging and motivating.

Our young people are facing the most significant disruption in the world of work since the industrial revolution and, as such, education must build capabilities that will best position our learners for tomorrow.

Rich, personalised learning experiences embedded in a contemporary and innovative curriculum that encourages student agency will develop the essential knowledge, skills and attributes they need to meet these challenges and experience an exceptional future.

Luther College values excellence and creativity in teaching and learning for all community members. A culture of challenge and support nurtures enthusiastic, independent learners committed to lifelong learning. Excellence in teaching and learning is focused on improving student outcomes which include spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, cultural and social dimensions.

All learners have access to quality learning experiences that ensure they develop their God-given abilities so they may enrich the world. High expectations are established through reflective practice, collaborative planning, monitoring, providing feedback and reporting on the effectiveness of learning. The learning environment promotes active engagement, risk taking, motivation, and a strong learner voice.

Creative Thinking

Communication

Self-management

The Luther Experience

The learning experience at Luther College is engaging and exciting, with opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop new ones, and choose from a broad range of subjects.

Underpinned by our values of Excellence, Integrity, Creativity, Service, and Community, the Luther College learning pathways support our students as they learn to improve, learn to be, learn to explore, learn to contribute and learn together.

The result of these pathways are students with the capabilities of communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creative thinking, global stewardship and selfmanagement, best positioning them for the future.

The college is also deliberate in its multi-disciplinary approach, offering an expansive curriculum, which incorporates classroom learning, incursions, excursions, co-curricular activities and project-based learning where a cross section of subjects combine to provide a deeper learning experience.

The college offers core and elective subjects under nine key learning areas.

English

English studies are undertaken from Year 7–12, with English and Literature our VCE units of study.

Mathematics

Mathematics includes Challenge and Mastery classes in Year 7–10, using differentiated learning to support and challenge students to achieve their best. At VCE, General Mathematics, Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics are available. The college also offers a Maths Homework Club three times a week to assist and support students to achieve their goals in Mathematics.

Humanities and Social Sciences

Humanities and Social Science studies are undertaken from Year 7–10, exploring Economics and Business, Civics and Citizenship, Geography and History. There are a range of VCE subjects including History, Geography, Economics, Global Politics and Legal Studies.

In Year 8 students participate in Civics Week, designing and pitching campaigns, voting and building their understanding of local, state and federal governments.

The Arts

The Arts encompass a range of artistic disciplines, from music, theatre and dance to visual communication, architectural and industrial design, illustration, ceramics and many other two-and three-dimensional mediums. There is commonality between music, theatre and visual art, with all involving processes that include play, design, experimentation, exploration, communication and provocation. Opportunities are available for students at every year level.

Christian Studies

Christian Studies delivers many exciting opportunities for students to explore diverse world views though a number of topics and experiences. Students come from a wide range of religious and non-religious backgrounds and it is through this diversity our program flourishes.

In Year 9 students undertake The Rite Journey, a yearlong program designed to build self-awareness, responsibility, respect, resilience and resourcefulness. Students participate in many learning activities throughout the year, culminating in a camp experience.

Science

Science studies are undertaken from Year 7–10. Challenge Science is offered in Year 10, plus a range of electives including Forensic Science, Advanced Investigation, Mythbusting Science, Astronomy and Psychology. VCE Science includes Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Physics and Environmental Science. The college has a thriving STEAM club, Girls in Science program and cutting-edge robotic telescope technologies.

Technologies

Technologies include Design Technology, Food Technology, and Digital Technology all of which offer a range of subjects that share the utilisation of the design process in order to problem solve. Laser cutting, 3D modelling, timber, metal and plastic construction, coding, software development, robotics and the science of food are just some of specialisations students can study.

Health and Physical Education

Health and Physical Education (HPE) studies are undertaken from Year 7–10. VCE subjects include Health and Physical Education, Outdoor and Environmental Studies and Health and Human Development. Our HPE program gives students a dynamic foundation for lifelong physical activity and sound preparation for an active, healthy lifestyle that will stay with them long after they leave Luther.

Languages (German and Chinese)

All students in Year 7–9 learn either German or Chinese. In Year 10 and VCE, languages are an elective subject. The college enjoys international partnerships with sister schools and provides German and Chinese language tours, cultural immersion excursions and incursions.

Through our Enhanced Learning Centre, the college offers an extensive range of support and extension programs designed for all stages of student achievement.

The college offers VCE Vocational Education and Training (VET) subjects in Year 11 and 12, some of which contribute to the student’s ATAR score. VET subjects help students to develop skills for use in the workforce and obtain a nationally recognised qualification.

Student voice is an important aspect of life at Luther, with regular opportunities for students to provide feedback. This is generally facilitated by the Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing, in collaboration with the Head of Middle Years and Head of Senior Years, in partnership with the Student Leadership Team and the Principal.

Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

Care is at the heart of the educational experience at Luther College.

Our pastoral care program helps students feel connected, giving them a sense of belonging from the day they start at the college.

Every part of our school culture flows through the lens of the House system. Usually placed with siblings, students belong to one of six Houses.

Each Head of House is responsible for the oversight of the pastoral care of the students in their House. They also oversee and monitor the academic progress in partnership with Heads of Year.

Vertical, House-based Home Groups, operate within the college, each with students from Year 7 to Year 12, creating a family like environment. This also gives senior students an opportunity to lead, mentor and support younger students.

At Luther College, respectful, positive, and productive relationships are expected. Our RESPECT@Luther program, based on restorative practice, gives staff and students the opportunity to build healthy relationships, take accountability and resolve conflict in a manner that restores, builds and maintains positive relationships.

Our comprehensive transition program starts midway through Year 6, giving students a sense of familiarity before they commence.

The college offers students a number of ways to seek support including online surveys for students who may feel less comfortable face-to-face, and through our Wellbeing Centre, which provides counselling and psychological support to assist students with their personal and academic journey.

Service

Service is a core value of a Luther College education. Service is faith active in love and involves the selfless giving and loving of others, making a difference in their lives by responding to their needs, and acting without expecting recognition or reward.

There are numerous leadership opportunities for students across the college. They include College Captains and Middle Years Captains, House Captains, plus leadership roles in the areas of sport and performing arts. In addition, students have opportunities to support and mentor younger students as peer support leaders and through every day activities and Home Group.

Service learning opportunities are available through programs such as the Australian Lutheran World Service Walk My Way fundraiser, the Karen Refugee Tutoring Program and The Dining Room Mission, Vive Café and The People’s Pantry, all of which serve food to disadvantaged people.

Community

Luther College offers a warm, caring and vibrant community, that over sixty years, has played an integral role in our success. Luther Connect, our parent led community group hosts regular events including Mother’s Day Morning Tea and Father’s Day Breakfast, giving families the opportunity to come together.

Our alumni are regularly welcomed back to the college as guest speakers or to support the running of sporting events, musicals and camps. Luther College has an active reunion program which celebrates 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 plus year milestones.

Co-Curricular Programs

Luther College offers an extensive range of co-curricular opportunities.

Performing Arts

The Performing Arts is a significant feature of school life at Luther. Individual instrumental and singing tuition is available, and students participate in our many bands, ensembles or choirs. Performance opportunities include multiple concerts, school assemblies, celebration services, events and musicals.

Students can participate in the House Performing Arts Festival, House Drama Festival or College Musical where they have the opportunity to perform, design, direct, choreograph and work backstage.

Luther in Concert at Hamer Hall

Each year our annual music showcase Luther in Concert is held at Melbourne’s premier performance venue, Hamer Hall. Students and staff delight in performing on the same stage graced by some of the world’s most acclaimed acts.

Sport

Sport occurs during scheduled school hours, enabling families to continue their association with local club competitions after school and on weekends.

Luther College is a member of the Eastern Independent Schools Melbourne (EISM), where we compete at interschool carnivals for swimming, track and field athletics and cross country. In addition, weekly interschool sports form part of the curriculum from Year 7. Team sports played in competition may include volleyball, netball, basketball, touch rugby, tennis, football and cricket.

Students also participate in House competitions for swimming, athletics and cross country.

Clubs

Luther College has a thriving Co-Curricular Club program, giving all students the opportunity to build on current interests or explore new ones. Some examples of clubs are:

Analecta (Yearbook)

Astronomy Club

Ballare (Dance)

Book Club

Chess Club

Debate Club

Irish Dancing

Karen Homework Program

Kids Lit Quiz

Luther Knitters

Maths Homework Club

Mustard Christian Group

SAGE Environmental Club

STEAM Club

Writers League

We encourage families considering an educational partnership with Luther College to submit their application for enrolment as early as possible.

For more information visit www.luther.vic.edu.au or call the college on (03) 9724 2000.