Has the curriculum been adapted to take account of State and National content requirements? Southern Cross Educational Enterprises Ltd. is engaged in an on-going ‘nationalization’ programme of the A.C.E. curriculum. The endeavour is to allow for specifically national content, where appropriate. Much of this work has already been done in the Australian context. The National Curriculum Catalogue gives a complete listing and summary of nationalized units. Although this mainly affects Maths and Social Studies, other locally produced courses have been developed.

Is A.C.E. recognized by tertiary institutions?
In most instances, Australian tertiary institutions will require an additional, independent form of assessment to accompany the A.C.E. Certificate. This requirement has been met through the successful completion of such external tests as the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) (see Product Catalogue). Over time, most students completing the A.C.E. Year 12 Academic Certificate who have applied for entry to post secondary institutions have entered the course of their choice.

Are schools using A.C.E. registered with the Education Department?
While this is a matter for the individual school, state regulations have necessitated the registration of new schools with relevant education departments. Therefore, in Australia, all schools using A.C.E. will be appropriately registered. Levels of registration may vary from school to school and state to state.  In other nations of the South Pacific, registration, where required by the national education authority, is strongly advised.

What certification is provided for students completing A.C.E. courses?
A.C.E. offers four levels of certificates (see A.C.E.: An Explanation): Year 10 General, Year 10 Academic, Year 12 General and Year 12 Academic. A set number of credits based on a range of courses must be accumulated before a certificate can be issued.

What is the difference between home schooling and distance education?
Traditionally home schooling has simply meant parents taking sole responsibility for their children’s education by teaching them at home. Home schooling may or may not involve enrolment with a home education provider or school. From an educational point of view, traditional home schooling has involved minimal input from professional teachers in terms of academic guidance, course structures, certification and other services. It may or may not use a formal curriculum. Educational outcomes reside with the parents. Distance Education involves formal enrolment with a registered school certified to operate a distance education programme. In this way, legal issues which often complicated home schooling are addressed. The curriculum used may be identical. Formal guidance from qualified teachers is required. Appropriate certification is provided. Minimum standards are met. Regular communication between teachers and students occurs. In terms of government assistance, tax exemptions, textbook allowances, and other benefits are usually available.

Is A.C.E. a true academic curriculum?
The A.C.E. curriculum was developed in the early 1970s as a Biblically-based alternative to existing secular programmes. It is a fully-fledged academic curriculum that also emphasizes Christian character development. (see A.C.E.: An Explanation). It has been designed as a self-instructional programme allowing students to master the less complex concepts before proceeding to higher levels. It focuses on four core subjects (Maths, Social Studies, Science and English (including Word Building and Literature & Creative Writing)). Many elective courses are available at the high school level. Distinctly Australian courses have been devised to address various state syllabi (eg Senior Maths, Senior Modern History, and Australian History). Curriculum development programmes are also addressing curriculum needs in other countries (eg New Zealand, Indonesia and PNG).

Is A.C.E. a denominationally-linked program?
A.C.E. is not an “outreach” of any particular church or denomination. As such it does not convey the biases or particular views of any particular church group. It has been developed as a Biblically-based alternative for schools and families desiring to balance academics with Christian character development.

What doctrinal basis is the program founded on?
While A.C.E. is not linked to a particular denomination, its original creators adhered to the evangelical view of scriptures thereby accepting the literal truth of fundamental Biblical teachings. These principles are evident throughout the curriculum.

How long has the curriculum been used in Australia?
Since 1975.

Who uses A.C.E.?
In the South Pacific region, over 150 schools and thousands of students on distance education programmes study on the A.C.E. Curriculum.

Who recommends A.C.E.?
This question is best answered by the user. Significant growth in student numbers gives testimony to the attractiveness of the curriculum as it addresses needs not met by other curricula.

In what way is the A.C.E. curriculum superior to other Christian programs?
It has a proven track record. Its suitability in most contexts. Its nationalisation programme. Its unique blend of self-instructional academics and Christian character development.

Why should I use A.C.E.?
The A.C.E. curriculum is a true Christian alternative to that offered by secular institutions or even Christian schools that use mainly secular material.

Can I buy direct from SCEE without enrolling with any institution?
Anyone can buy the material and enrolment is not a necessity. However, we encourage enrolment in either a registered school or certified distance education provider due to the benefits that apply. “Retail customers” are welcome to purchase the curriculum at the retail price. This may benefit those who wish only to temporarily supplement an existing programme. However, no academic assistance or certification for the completion of courses can be offered for this option.

How do I pay for my order?
Payment methods currently accepted: Credit Card, Bank draft, personal cheque, money order and telegraphic transfer (for schools).

How do I start the program?
For School Inquiries, contact the Schools Services Department at schools@SCEE.edu.au
The normal procedure followed for such inquires would be: An information packet containing a Schools Service Agreement Form; a formal application sent to SCEE with fee, Supervisor and monitor Training, Diagnostic testing of students; initial curriculum order.

Can I use A.C.E. in conjunction with other curricula?
The curriculum can either be used in its entirety (which is strongly recommended) or as a supplement to an existing course structure.

What IT programs are available?
The current available products from A.C.E. include:

• A.C.E. Connect Technology Training
• Readmaster Plus

How do I get help with academic problems?
Schools may direct their inquiries to schools@SCEE.edu.au

How do I obtain more information?
Further information is available on the A.C.E. website: www.aceministries.com