The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) has moved to reassure the community after reports that VCE Classical Greek and Classical Studies were among several low-enrolment subjects being considered for possible retirement.
In a statement to The Greek Herald, a VCAA spokesperson confirmed: “No changes will be made to the available VCE studies in 2026. The VCAA will consult with stakeholders prior to implementing any changes to the studies offered as part of the VCE from 2027.”
The clarification comes after widespread nervousness within Victoria’s Greek community, following earlier reports in The Age and comments from Professor Anastasios Tamis suggesting the subjects were at immediate risk.
Community concern prompts calls for transparency
Professor Tamis, Director of the Australian Institute for Macedonian Studies, told The Greek Herald he had been informed the VCE Board was “seriously contemplating abolishing Classical Studies and Ancient Greek.” He said removing the subjects would damage academic pathways and undermine the study of Western civilisation.
“This will not stand,” he said. “We will not allow the Board to cut these subjects. We have a moral obligation to intervene.”
Teachers and community leaders also expressed frustration at the lack of formal communication, with several saying they had heard only “whispers” of an impending review.
According to background figures, only three students were enrolled in Classical Greek in 2025, and 226 students in Classical Studies – placing both well below thresholds examined in recent VCAA reviews.
Review recommendations place low-enrolment subjects under scrutiny
The community’s alarm follows Stage 2 of an independent review into the VCAA, which found the authority carries an “unsustainable subject load” and recommended examining low-enrolment studies, including languages with fewer than 15 students.
While these recommendations have sparked debate, the VCAA’s statement indicates no immediate changes – and emphasises that consultation will guide any reform affecting 2027 and beyond.
What happens next
The VCAA’s assurance provides short-term stability, but uncertainty remains over the long-term future of Classical Greek and Classical Studies. Community organisations, academics and benefactors are now preparing to take part in the consultation process once it begins.
For Professor Tamis, the fight is just beginning.
“To abandon Classical Greek is to abandon a part of ourselves,” he said.
The Greek Herald will continue to follow developments as the VCAA prepares its consultation process for 2027.
