Senior School

SHARRON FRAME

Head of Senior School

I often talk about what Senior School is about, but this time I would like to use the thoughts of one of our students, Efthymia Delichristou, who recently spoke at Open Day.

“Senior School is a time to learn more about me, and improve as an individual. It is also a time of freedom and independence. It can be a stressful time, as everything counts. Everything is now up to us, the students, but Senior School gives us everything we need to succeed. It is an opportunity for me to take chances and make good choices. I have a chance to focus on my future, and think about what I want to do with my life. Senior School prepares us for this upcoming life”.

In Senior School we ask the students to lead by example. They are the oldest in the School, and so they should be the role models for the younger students. But the truth is, we all need to be role models. Children watch and learn from those around them, not just the big kids. Our responses and actions need to be well thought out, and positive in approach, even when dealing with negative issues. Proactive not reactive, mindful, not mindless, and considered not careless approaches need to be used for learning to take place.

With that in mind I take the opportunity to highlight the brilliant example of collegiate work that has benefited the learning of our students set by a number of our staff recently. Year 10 have just completed the MYP Personal Project. This is a year long inquiry investigation into an area of personal interest for each student. Once completed, each needs to be marked. This was a new experience for me this year. But it was made so easy and enjoyable by the caring and collaborative approach of my colleagues. As a group, we met to review, discuss and help each other to complete the enormous task of marking the projects. With the support of each other, and a little humour, the job was quickly completed.

VCAA Examinations

The external VCAA examinations commence on Wednesday October 31 at 9.00am, with the English/EAL papers. The examination period for our School runs until November 18. During this time, the Inner Yard near the canteen will be an out of bounds area, and roped off to allow our students to undertake their examinations without the distraction of noise. On behalf of the students, I would like to thank everyone for their support and understanding with regard to these restrictions during this time.

Final Days for Year 12

This week was the final week for students in Year 12. Their journey through Oakleigh Grammar officially ended with important events that recognised and celebrated their time as students at the School.

Students enjoyed a sun-filled day on Wednesday October 23, as they came together as a cohort for the traditional Celebration Day activities. From the photos below, you can see many wore costumes and enjoyed the water fight with their peers in the Outer Yard.

The following day, the whole school came together at Farewell Assembly, to say goodbye and recognise the efforts of all staff who have been involved in the education of our 2019 cohort. This assembly is one of the most touching and enjoyable of the entire year. In front of parents, siblings and members of our School Community, the cohort gathered as a group for the final time. Represented by their School Captains, the students had a chance to reflect on their journey. To paraphrase the words of Vasiliki Tamvakis, for most: school has been a place where students can exceed their own expectations, and learn more about the world as they know it….where they can formulate their values, morals and beliefs, and discover who they are as individuals.

The larger number of parents in attendance then met with the Principal and staff for morning tea in the Common Room before students were dismissed.

Graduation Dinner

Students and their families gathered with staff for Graduation Dinner at Merrimu, on Thursday October 24. The last in the planned events for Year 12 allowed those that knew each as individuals to share stories and experiences. This year level has been lovely to work with. We wish them the best as they prepare for the VCAA examinations, and life after Oakleigh Grammar. This can be a daunting experience, but we will always be here if help is needed, and they are more than welcome to come back and tell us how they are faring.