Is VCE English Language hard? Is VCE English Language the right subject for you? Have a read at Nicole’s journey through this program as she shares her insights into the challenges she faced, as well as many ways to overcome them, ultimately taking home a Raw 45 study score.

Hi readers! I‘m Nicole, a past student of VCE Excel Education and a high scorer (Raw 45) in VCE English Language.  As a student who’s been through it, I can honestly say that whether it is hard really depends on your strengths and interests. For me, and for many of my peers, it definitely posed some unique challenges.

In Year 10, I found myself asking the same question while choosing subjects for VCE. After extensive research and talking to my VCE English language tutor, I determined that the program was a better fit for me. While this might not be the experience for everyone, I found little enjoyment in analysing novels and authors’ intentions—a major focus of core English.

However, I thoroughly enjoyed dissecting conversations, which is a key aspect of English Language. Opting for VCE English Language turned out to be one of the best decisions in my 18 years—I genuinely had a lot of fun, even though it was daunting at first.

What students found hard

+ tips and tricks for VCE English Language

Before I move on to more specific tips, here are some general tips:

Students found it hard to find interest and enjoy the the process of learning, leading to a loss of motivation. Without genuine interest, staying engaged with the seemingly complex material becomes a chore, making it difficult to invest the time and effort needed to grasp concepts deeply.

→ Try to be curious and passionate. I know it sounds nerdy, but make it FUN. Expand your analytical skills to linguistics in the real world. If you’re unsure, your VCE English language tutor can help break it down.

Students often struggle to figure out what to improve on and are limited in their exposure to different perspectives.

→ Find a study group, or work with your English language tutor to review and discuss work. A small, focused peer review (like mine with a friend on Google Drive) helped me improve drastically.

One of the challenges of is the need to stay informed about current events and contemporary issues.

→ Read widely—news, sample essays, and even your friends’ analysis. I found that my tutor often recommended ABC and The Conversation as excellent sources.

Many students find VCE English Language challenging due to the varied skills required for each section of the exam.

→ Understand the structure: Short answer, Analytical Commentary, Essay. Tailor your strategy for each. My VCE tutor always emphasized the need to plan ahead.

Time management is a common struggle.

→ Use your 15-minute reading time wisely. Plan your essay, then analytical commentary, then short answers. My tutor helped me develop this habit until it became second nature.

Tips Specific to Each Section

Short Answer:
Main takeaway: lego blocks

→ The Short Answer section challenges both beginners and advanced students. Some fail due to weak grasp of metalanguage; others fail to connect to the text.

→ For beginners, my English language tutor helped me build “lego blocks”—pre-written analytical chunks for features like passivisation or nominalisation.

→ For top scorers: perspective matters. Put yourself in the speaker’s shoes. Use specific references like “Mr Albanese” instead of just “the speaker”.

Analytical Commentary:
Main takeaway: show, don’t tell

→ I used to describe what I saw, not analyse. My VCE English language tutor taught me to imagine I was explaining to a 5-year-old, helping me break down even obvious points to add depth.

→ Always connect each point back to social purpose, context, and register. It’s something that separated a 35 from a 40+.

→ Yes, you can pre-prepare for an AC. I had a toolbox of phrases and stylistic templates, which my English language tutor helped me develop.

Essay:
Main takeaway: don’t be an NPC

→ Boring, generic examples like “rizzler” won’t impress the examiner. They helped me think outside the box—like analysing a 2023 Edrolo ad for Teenspeak.

→ Don’t waste 10 minutes picking your prompt. Train yourself with a go-to decision system. For me, it was Unit 3 > Unit 4, Formal > Informal. My tutor drilled this into me.

That’s it from me for now.

Mastering the VCE English Language is a journey. Whether you’re working alone or with a dedicated English language tutor, remember: every word you analyse brings you one step closer to mastery. Keep reading, keep writing, and never stop asking “why?”

Celebrating your child’s scholastic achievements is more than just a proud parent moment; it’s an opportunity to encourage, uplift, and show your child that hard work truly pays off. The right gift turns a milestone into a memory, and the meaning behind each present can carry powerful emotional significance.

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are five heartfelt gift ideas to celebrate your child’s academic success.

1. Crystal Plaques

A personalized crystal plaque is a timeless keepsake that reflects academic excellence and the journey it took to get there, making this an excellent graduation gift for high school achievers. Unlike traditional trophies or ribbons, crystal plaques can be engraved with your child’s name, the date, and even a heartfelt message that highlights exactly what they accomplished.

The Value of Crystal Plaques

Crystal plaques are visually stunning and feel substantial in hand, making the gift of recognition much more special. Plaques look elegant on a nightstand or desk, serving as a daily reminder of your child’s perseverance through academia and your unwavering support.

2. Educational Experiences: Gifts That Give Back

Honor your young achiever with educational experiences such as museum memberships, science kits, or language course subscriptions. These gift ideas to celebrate your child’s academic success are perfect for nurturing continued curiosity.

3. Books with a Personal Touch

A thoughtfully chosen book can spark imagination or introduce new worlds, cultures, or perspectives to your child. Add a personal message on the inside cover to transform this gift into a treasured memento. For avid readers, consider a special edition of their favorite novel or a box set related to a loved subject.

4. Customized School Supplies

Receiving monogrammed notebooks, a backpack embroidered with their initials, or a set of custom pens signals a fresh start for the next academic adventure. These practical yet personal gifts build excitement and pride, especially when paired with a note reminding your child of how far they’ve come and how proud of them you feel.

5. An Unforgettable Day Out

Sometimes, the best gift is quality time together. Plan an outing based on your child’s interests, such as a trip to their favorite amusement park, a special dinner, or tickets to a play or concert (complete with a gift basket celebrating their academic achievements). Shared experiences strengthen family bonds and give your child positive memories associated with their hard-earned academic success.

Choosing the right gift to celebrate your child’s academic success is about more than recognition; it’s about making them feel seen, valued, and inspired to reach for the next goal. Whether it’s the permanence of a crystal plaque, the endless possibilities of a good book, or the adventures sparked by a museum pass, what matters most is the message behind the gesture.

Take some time to think about what excites your child and how you can help them cherish this milestone. Years from now, they’ll remember not just what they accomplished, but how you celebrated together.

Losing your phone is more than just frustrating – it’s chaos in your pocket. Your contacts, messages, photos, social media, banking apps – all potentially up for grabs. And if it’s on silent mode? Good luck hearing it ring from under the car seat.

But here’s the thing: you’re not limited to just calling your number and hoping for the best. That’s where tools like find my phone by number come in. There are smarter, sneakier, and more efficient ways to find a lost phone. You just need to know where to look.

Let’s break down 5 surprisingly effective methods to help you out.

1.   Use a Phone Tracking App

Modern problems require modern tools. A phone tracking app is your first (and best) line of defense when your phone goes missing.

Here’s what you can expect from tracking apps:

• Real-time GPS location
• Access from any browser or device
• Tools to ring, lock, or erase the phone remotely
• Alerts if the SIM card is changed

But heads up: Most of these apps require prior installation and setup. If your phone is already missing and untracked, you’re out of luck with these.

For a detailed breakdown of top mobile trackers, check out  guide to the best phone tracking apps.

2.   Try Google’s Built-In “Find My Device” Tool (Android)

If you’re using an Android and had location services turned on, Google has a handy little feature that might save the day.

Steps to use it:

1. Go to Find My Device findmydevice.google.com
2. Log in with your Google account.
3. Select the lost phone from the list.
4. View its location or make it ring.

Limitations:

• Doesn’t work if the phone is off or not connected to the internet
• Can be blocked by someone who resets your device
• Requires your Google account password

3.   Apple’s “Find My iPhone” (iOS)

For iPhone users, this one’s a no-brainer if you’ve activated “Find My” before losing your device.

Steps to use it:

1. Open iCloud.com or the Find My app iCloud.com/find on another Apple device.
2. Log in with your Apple ID.
3. Select your lost phone to locate it.

Limitations:

• Must have “Find My” activated in settings beforehand
• No help if the device is powered off
• Easily resettable if someone knows what they’re doing

4.   Use GEOfinder to Locate a Phone by Number

How to find my phone by number? If you’re looking for a lost phone locator that doesn’t involve installing anything, GEOfinder is your best bet. You literally need just the phone number. It sends a silent message to the target phone, requesting its location. The message appears as a system notification asking to return the lost phone, which boosts the chance of getting it back if someone else finds it.

Why GEOfinder Stands Out:

• No app install required
• Works on any phone
• Can track any number you enter
• Accurate GPS pinpointing
• Doesn’t require login to the device

5.   Contact Your Carrier (Not Glamorous, But Sometimes Effective)

When all else fails, don’t forget about your service provider. They can often:

• Block your SIM card
• Redirect your number to a new SIM
• Sometimes ping the last known location (if law enforcement is involved)

It’s not the fastest or most private method, but if you’ve got no other options, it’s worth a shot.

What Else You Should Know Before You Panic

One of the most overlooked issues in phone recovery is time. The longer your phone is lost, the harder it is to track. Battery dies. SIMs are swapped. Locations change. That’s why instant solutions like GEOfinder can be a game-changer – you don’t need to prepare ahead, and you don’t need to install anything. You just act.

Also worth noting: if your phone is stolen, acting quickly is more than just about recovering a device – it can also stop unauthorized access to your apps and sensitive data. Always change passwords for critical services like email, banking, and cloud storage as soon as your phone goes missing. Even if you end up finding it, that extra step is worth it.

Before You Go: Pro Tips to Stay Prepared

Once you’ve located your lost phone, take a few extra minutes to future-proof yourself. Here are some practical habits that reduce panic next time:

• First, enable any built-in tracking tools, like Apple’s “Find My” or Google’s “Find My Device”, before you ever need them. They’re not perfect, but when combined with tools like GEOfinder, they form a solid net of protection.

• Second, consider labeling your lock screen. Something like “If found, please call [alternate number]” might seem old-school, but it still works. Many good Samaritans are willing to help if given the chance.

• Third, keep your most essential data, like passwords, 2FA backups, or digital keys, in a cloud-based service you trust. A lost phone shouldn’t mean lost access to your entire digital life.

• Finally, if you’re someone who regularly misplaces their phone (no judgment), consider pairing it with a Bluetooth tracker or smartwatch. These can trigger alerts or locate your phone with the press of a button.

Final Call: What Actually Works?

To find a lost phone, your success comes down to what you set up beforehand, or how quickly you act. While Apple and Google offer solid tools, they only work if set up in advance. GEOfinder removes that barrier. With nothing to install, you just enter a number and get results. It’s that simple. If your phone’s gone, don’t waste time – GEOfinder is your quickest shot at getting it back.

Many parents don’t expect to think about foot care until later in life, but the truth is that foot problems can begin in childhood. While it might be easy to brush off the occasional complaint of sore feet or awkward walking as “just a phase,” these subtle signs can be early indicators of underlying issues. Detecting concerns early is key to preventing long-term complications.

I. Introduction

Podiatric care for children focuses on diagnosing and treating foot and lower limb conditions in growing kids. According to a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, foot problems are common in children, with up to 30% of kids experiencing foot pain at some point. Since children are still developing, prompt intervention from a pediatric podiatrist can ensure proper growth, alignment, and function. Understanding what to watch for can make all the difference in your child’s comfort and long-term mobility.

II. Frequent Complaints of Pain

A. Morning heel pain

If your child frequently complains of heel pain when getting out of bed, this could be a red flag. Morning heel pain is a common symptom of Sever’s disease, a condition linked to the growth plate in the heel bone. It often affects active children, especially those involved in sports. Ignoring this sign can lead to prolonged discomfort and difficulty participating in physical activities.

Incorporating podiatric care for children at the first sign of heel pain can help alleviate symptoms and prevent worsening. A pediatric podiatrist can recommend appropriate footwear, stretching routines, and lifestyle adjustments to support your child’s heel health.

B. Pain after activity

Does your child often wince, limp, or avoid walking after playtime or sports? Pain after physical activity is not just fatigue-it could signal early joint or structural problems. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, or poor arch support may be to blame.

Children foot problems often become more noticeable after high-impact activity. An evaluation by a pediatric podiatrist can pinpoint the root cause and offer corrective solutions. Timely intervention ensures your child can enjoy physical activities without pain.

C. Persistent toe soreness

Toe soreness that doesn’t resolve with rest or better footwear may suggest a deeper issue. Children may have difficulty expressing the exact problem, so if your child consistently avoids wearing closed shoes or complains about their toes, take note.

This discomfort might stem from nail conditions, pressure-related issues, or improper toe alignment. A professional in podiatric care for children can assess whether there’s a need for custom orthotics, treatment for ingrown toenails in children, or other therapies.

III. Changes in Walking Pattern

A. Tiptoe walking

Tiptoe walking in toddlers can be normal at certain developmental stages, but if it continues beyond age two or becomes the dominant walking pattern, it may indicate a neurological or muscular issue. Known as idiopathic toe walking, this behavior can also stem from shortened Achilles tendons.

A tiptoe walking toddler should be evaluated by a pediatric podiatrist. Through early intervention, including stretches, orthotic devices, or physical therapy, many children can transition to a more stable and balanced gait. Addressing it early can also help avoid future joint or spine issues.

B. Limping or dragging feet

Any unexplained limp, especially if it persists for more than a few days, warrants attention. Limping can be caused by anything from minor injuries to more serious structural concerns. Children may unconsciously alter their gait to avoid pain, leading to muscle imbalances or joint strain.

In podiatric care for children, limping is one of the clearest signs a child needs a podiatrist. A full biomechanical assessment can uncover whether the problem lies in the feet, knees, or hips, and create a tailored treatment plan to correct it.

C. Uneven shoe wear

Check the soles of your child’s shoes. If you notice uneven wear patterns-like one shoe being more worn on the inside or heel-this could indicate an imbalance in their gait. This may be due to overpronation, flat feet, or misalignment.

These common foot issues in kids are easily missed until they begin affecting posture or causing discomfort. Gait abnormalities in children can result in long-term musculoskeletal issues if left untreated. Early podiatric evaluation can prevent the development of more complex orthopedic problems and improve overall foot function.

IV. Noticeable Foot Deformities

A. Flat feet concerns

Kids flat feet are common, especially in younger children. However, if your child continues to have low or absent arches past the toddler years, or complains of pain, it could be a sign of a structural issue. Flat feet can affect balance, posture, and lead to fatigue.

A pediatric podiatrist can determine whether your child’s flat feet require orthotics or physical therapy. Podiatric care for children can correct or manage this condition early, reducing the chances of chronic pain and mobility issues later in life.

B. Inward-turning ankles

Some children walk with their ankles or feet turning inward, known as “in-toeing.” This can cause awkward walking and tripping. It might be caused by tibial torsion, femoral anteversion, or foot alignment problems.

Left unchecked, inward turning can lead to poor posture and strain on joints. A podiatrist can assess gait and recommend corrective exercises or orthotics, improving alignment and confidence in movement.

C. Curled or overlapping toes

If your child has toes that overlap or curl under, especially if they cause discomfort or make it difficult to wear shoes, this could indicate muscle imbalance or developmental irregularities. Hammertoes and claw toes can also occur in children.

These structural issues can worsen over time without podiatric care. A pediatric podiatrist may recommend stretching, taping, or even minor corrective procedures to help your child walk comfortably and develop properly.

V. Skin and Nail Irregularities

A. Recurring ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails in children are more than just a nuisance-they can become infected and painful if not treated properly. If your child regularly complains about their big toe hurting or has visible swelling and redness around the nail, it should be examined.

A specialist in podiatric care for children can offer safe and effective treatment, preventing further discomfort or infection. They may also teach proper trimming techniques and recommend footwear to reduce the risk of recurrence.

B. Calluses or blisters

While occasional blisters or calluses may be normal for active kids, persistent or painful ones can be signs of improper foot mechanics or ill-fitting shoes. Friction from abnormal walking patterns can also cause these skin issues.

When to see a podiatrist becomes clear if these skin concerns don’t resolve or interfere with your child’s daily activities. A pediatric podiatrist can evaluate gait and recommend custom inserts or better shoe options for long-term comfort.

C. Unusual skin color or texture

Discoloration, scaling, or unusual texture on the feet may indicate fungal infections, circulation issues, or skin conditions like eczema. Children may not always mention itching or pain, so parents should watch for visual signs.

Involving a podiatrist early can ensure the proper diagnosis and treatment. Podiatric care for children isn’t just about bones and joints-it also includes maintaining healthy skin and nails.

VI. Conclusion

Recognizing subtle signs early can spare your child from chronic discomfort and mobility challenges later in life. Foot issues may not always be dramatic, but small complaints or changes in walking patterns can be the first clue something isn’t right.

If you’re noticing any of these signs your child needs a podiatrist, don’t wait. With expert foot care for kids, your child can grow confidently and comfortably. Podiatric care for children is a proactive step toward supporting their health from the ground up.