Churchill Avenue News - Introducing the Learning Portfolio

Welcome to the Learning portfolio

As we begin a new school year, I would like to warmly welcome all students and families back to the College. The start of the year always brings a sense of excitement and possibility, and 2026 is shaping up to be a big and purposeful year for our community. It is a time to reconnect, set goals, and look ahead to the learning and growth that will take place in our classrooms.

My name is Lauren Markovic, and I am delighted to continue my work as Deputy Principal - Learning. I have been part of the College community for the past 14 years and feel a deep sense of pride in the journey we have taken together. I am passionate about all things curriculum and pedagogy and have held a range of curriculum-focused leadership roles over the years. For the past two years, I have had the privilege of serving in the Deputy Principal role in an acting capacity, working closely with staff to strengthen learning and teaching across the College.

The Learning portfolio is a broad and dynamic one, encompassing three key areas: Curriculum, Programs, and Learning Diversity. Together, these areas shape the rich and diverse learning opportunities we provide for students from Years 7 to 12.

The Curriculum area oversees the delivery of the Years 7 - 12 curriculum, including subject offerings, pedagogical practices, assessment and reporting, and the effective use of data to inform and improve teaching practice. This work ensures that learning is rigorous, relevant, and aligned with contemporary research into how students learn best.

The Programs area supports a range of specialised and pathway-focused opportunities, including Aspire, the Sports Academy, VCE, VCE VM, VET, and Careers education. This portfolio is committed to ensuring that every student has access to meaningful learning pathways and is supported to make informed choices about life beyond school. It also plays a vital role in developing personalised learning programs that recognise students’ interests, strengths, and aspirations.

The Learning Diversity area recognises that students learn in different ways and that, with the right supports in place, all students can experience success. This work includes overseeing students on the NCCD register and supporting teachers to implement effective differentiation strategies within the classroom, ensuring inclusive and responsive learning environments for all.

I am deeply passionate about learning at the College and have seen firsthand how our teaching and learning practices have evolved over time. This year, my focus is on continuing to embed the MACS 2030: Forming Lives to Enrich the World strategic plan into our learning and teaching programs, with particular attention to the Vision for Instruction and Vision for Engagement. By strengthening common practices across classrooms, we aim to ensure high-impact, evidence-informed teaching that promotes clarity, engagement, and deep learning for every student.

I am excited by the work ahead and look forward to continuing to embed practices such as explicit instruction and effective feedback into College processes, supporting both teacher growth and student achievement. I look forward to a rewarding year of learning together.

Lauren Markovic
Deputy Principal - Learning