Teaching & Learning

End Of Term 1: 

Teaching and Learning 

Exciting Success with the VHAP Mathematics Program

The Victorian High Abilities Program (VHAP) is delighted to share the success of our recent Mathematics Program, offered online to high-achieving students across the state. This program has provided an enriching and challenging learning experience, allowing students to deepen their mathematical understanding and explore complex problem-solving strategies.

Throughout the program, students engaged in interactive lessons, collaborative problem-solving, and advanced mathematical concepts that extended beyond the standard curriculum. Many students expressed their enthusiasm for the program, highlighting their enjoyment of the engaging activities, stimulating discussions, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers from different schools.

We are proud of all the students who participated in the program who demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and curiosity in their mathematical learning. Term 2 sees our current VHAP superstars attend a Masterclass with other like-minded students from other secondary schools to participate in a day full of maths challenges.

Amanda Tate

VHAP Coordinator

International Students Term 1 Report

Global Prefects Message

“We welcome all international students at South Oakleigh College this year, especially students just starting this year!

If you need assistance, please feel free to approach us and ask. We are friendly and happy to help.

If you have any ideas for cultural celebrations that we could plan at school for 2025, please let us know. We are looking for more opportunities to celebrate cultural occasions at school.”

From your Global Prefects, Aku Chapagain and Hiro Hajinikitas

Year 7 Camp

Our Year 7 international students enjoyed the opportunity to be exposed to different activities for three days.

Year 7 camp involved a “bush dance”, swimming, panning for gold and spaghetti bolognese, things that are not commonly accessed in some countries.

Andy (Year 7) was amazed at how clearly you could see the sunset in Warburton, and stopped to take a minute to appreciate it. Peter (Year 7) really enjoyed the night-time scavenger hunt. 

Harmony Week

This year for Harmony Week, our Global Prefects, Aku and Hiro ran a flag-colouring activity on Wednesday lunchtime (19th of March) – thank you to those who came down and participated.

A huge thank you to our international students and Global Prefects who came together in International Club to plan and pick a recipe for the SRC’s Harmony Day Bake Sale – Aku, Diana, Hiro, Kevin, Olivia, Sovan and Xichen. These students worked together to make dumplings for sale at the Bake Sale.

All proceeds will be given to the Monash Children’s Hospital School. 

International Student Club

International Club is running every Monday at lunchtime in A2.

International Club is not just for international students, local students are encouraged to attend! It is a great opportunity for our international students to make friends with local students, feel welcomed to the school, and it is a space where students can seek help for any questions they may have about high school in Australia.  

Sara Crespo-Liu

International Student Co Ordinator 

Japanese Club

The Japanese department started Japanese Club this term with an extended timetable -Monday and Tuesday lunchtimes. During our Monday lunchtime sessions, club attendees watch anime and on Tuesdays we hosted cultural activities, such as water calligraphy and working bees to decorate the Japanese classrooms.

During the recent Harmony Week, we celebrated the cultural diversity at our school by encouraging all students to attend our viewing of My Neighbour Totoro (となりのトトロ) in the school’s theatre during the Monday and Tuesday lunchtimes.

Bonnie Tynan 

Japanese Head of Learning 

Lunchtime Fitness club in the Fitness Centre

The lunchtime Fitness Club has been a hit every Tuesday lunch in the Fitness Centre. It’s a great way for students to improve strength, endurance, or power, learn proper technique, or simply burn off some energy after sitting in class. The Fitness club is a great way to improve fitness and wellbeing. This lunchtime session has been becoming increasingly popular, so please come along and join in the fun.

Jacinta Wallis 

Health and PE KLA Leader 

Arts and Technology 

Year 7 Art: A Creative Beginning!

Year 7 students have had a wonderful start in art, exploring the basic elements like colour, lines, shapes, texture, and tone. They've learned to write notes about their art, helping them understand their creative process. They showed resilience, trying new things and not giving up when it was hard. Most importantly, they made their own artistic choices within the boundaries of the task, showcasing their individuality.We saw beautiful colours, interesting lines, varied textures, and imaginative shapes, each pie chart reflecting the student's unique style. We are very proud of their hard work and creative spirit.

Unit 1 Media

In Unit 1 Media, students navigated Photography's journey that extends beyond the digital screen and their point and shoot devices. We are currently exploring Media Forms in Production and exercising our Media Form. What do we know, what can we still learn when we think we've taking photographs with our phone since we can remember and the VCE key question of "How can we manipulate codes and conventions to create representations?"

The class has been given a prompt to work from. "Domestic Cloth". What does this means to you?

As a class we brainstormed some ideas such as; laundry, fabric, home, textiles, chores, comfort, warmth, curtains, sheets, towels, weaving, sewing, care, daily life, texture, softness, patterns, family, tradition, function, intimacy.

Exploration began with brainstorming and researching how existing photographers capture, position and frame (often cropping/omitting or deciding to include) their subject matter; capturing images requires some thought for composition and content, before following up with the crucial step of printing for presentation. 

Contact sheets offer a visual overview of all the images we'e taken, aiding selection. A4 and A3 prints refine choices, revealing details. Large-format printing, particularly in black and white, becomes a powerful tool for self-assessment. The absence of colour highlights composition and tonal range, forcing a critical look at the image's focal point. Printing in half tone or with ben Dye dots also give us a sense of what can be identified in the composition. 

Does it command attention at a larger scale? This process, from initial capture to expansive print, establishes a deeper understanding of photographic impact and artistic intention.

Next we will explore ANIMATION! A whole bunch of still images edited together to get the moving image. Keep your eyes out for VCE animation, coming soon!

Monogram Mastery

Year 8 artists explored lino cut printmaking techniques. We went though planning, sketching and refined their initials, changing simple letters into unique, personal emblems. Once each design was ready we had to reverse the image onto a 10 x 10cm square of lino before getting to print. 

This design process fostered design thinking skills and an appreciation for the design process and how long it takes to get from an idea to applying it to a piece of lino and onto paper.. We also talked about the safe use of tools being able to recognise that the tools are sharp, but can be effective at cutting lino as long as we cut away from hands and fingers.

The hands-on experience of transferring these designs onto lino blocks was both challenging and rewarding. 

The year 8 then explored two printing methods: hand stamping and press rolling. 

Stamping offered immediate, tactile results, highlighting the importance of even pressure and ink distribution. Press rolling, on the other hand, revealed the textures and impressions they could get with the printing press. Also that the amount of ink you put on can make a difference.

Beyond technical skills, this outcome got each student to be patient, show they can pay attention to detail, and gain a sense of accomplishment. 

Each finished print, whether stamped or rolled, showed each work was individual. The experience proved to be an invaluable exploration of artistic expression and an attempt at printmaking.

Lights, Camera, Audience! 

When the curtain rises on a game show, it's more than just entertainment—it's a microcosm of Australian cultural diversity and media production. Being part of the studio audience on the Channel 9 show, Tipping Point we could physically understand the TV production process. 

We could identify different representations from the host and the studio audience to the crew, we were even reminded to consider the home viewers too. Some people in the audience and those who were to be contestants on the show, had traveled from rural Victoria or even interstate arriving at 4:00 am on the morning of the shoot, demonstrating the magnetic pull of live television and the universal language of our shared excitement. Our episode will not air until September-ish, but will be notified and we will let you know.  

We discovered how many moving parts it takes (get it, "take one, take two")  to create an episode with electrifying audience engagement. 

Our diverse group of students joined a diverse studio audience — representing Victoria's rich multicultural landscape — we became active participants in media production.  We weren't just watching a game show; we were creating media, transforming raw energy into a narrative that would eventually reach thousands of living rooms across Australia

We were trained in how to clap, how to "ohhhh" and "ahhhh" and even how high we should be clapping. Clap at eye level, to allow the camera to capture our response, so the home audience get a sense of our experience which in turn encourages an emotional response as if they were on set with us. We got an understanding that our reactions aren't just spontaneous responses, but carefully crafted emotional signals that translate through camera lenses to viewers at home!

Renee Gross 

Arts and Technology

Wheelers ePlatform

South Oakleigh College is committed to providing students with various and unique learning opportunities, which is why we are pleased to remind you once again that Wheelers ePlatform, is South Oakleigh’s digital library. It provides our students free access to eBooks and audiobooks throughout the year and during school holidays. 

The benefits of ePlatform: With ePlatform, your child has 24/7 access to eBooks and Audiobooks for free. This is a wonderful extension of our physical school library and allows titles to be checked out at home, over the weekend or during school breaks without worrying about losing books because they automatically return at the end of the loan period. Students of all ages can benefit from ePlatform's reading and comprehension tools.  A service like this can benefit struggling or reluctant readers, learning-challenged students, second-language learners and the visually impaired as well as gifted readers alike. 

• Unique reader customisation with Settings wizard, across all devices 
• Introduce students to books above their reading level 
• Help busy kids find time to read 
• Professionally curated collection with age restrictions set by school staff 
• Increase vocabulary and improve pronunciation and comprehension  
• User friendly for all types of readers & listeners (e.g. reluctant, dyslexic) 

How to access: Ensure your child has Wheeler’s ePlatform app on their device which can be downloaded for free from the Apple Store, Google Play Store, or the platform can easily be accessed via the school website in the ‘student’ dropdown menu, top left-hand corner. Click on the link below. https://www.sosc.vic.edu.au/   Students have their own unique login to access the platform using their Compass user ID: i.e. NBA0001 and the initially generic password Library1. Please contact us directly should your child have any trouble logging in. 

Nancy Bastakos

Library Manager

Senior Debating Team Secures a Strong Victory to Open the Season

South Oakleigh College’s senior debating team has once again demonstrated why they are a force to be reckoned with, beginning their 2025 season in exceptional form. With an impressive record of only one loss in the past two years, the team entered this season eager to continue their success and make their mark once more.

The first debate of the season took place on the evening of 6th March, where our students went head-to-head with Wesley College’s Division 1 team — a formidable opponent. The topic for the evening centred on whether pharmaceuticals should receive public funding, a challenging and complex issue that required careful research, strategic argumentation, and confident delivery.

South Oakleigh’s debaters rose to the occasion, presenting well-structured arguments and skilfully rebutting Wesley’s case. Their efforts were rewarded with a commanding 4-point victory — a considerable margin in the competitive world of senior debating. This impressive result not only highlights the team’s talent and preparation, but also reflects their dedication and teamwork.

With such a strong start to the season, the team is full of confidence and looking forward to the challenges ahead. Their goal is clear: to build on this momentum and ultimately take out the championship title this year. South Oakleigh College is incredibly proud of our senior debaters and the way they continue to represent the school with excellence, passion, and pride.

Nicholas Morlin 

English Teaching and Learning - Debating and Public Speaking

Musical Production News

This term Ms Hoernel, Mr Platenkamp and Miss Neep ran auditions for our new school production Beauty and the Beast JR.  

They were overwhelmed and blown away by the exceptional talent and courage shown by every student who attended an audition, rounding in at over 70 students! This reflects the wonderful array of talent SOC has in the Performing Arts.

After a long and gruelling two weeks of auditions and callbacks, we are delighted to announce our cast for the 2025 production.  

We would like to thank everyone for the time and effort you put into your audition. Auditions are daunting, even for the most experienced performers, and we are extremely proud of your courage, determination, and passion.  

Stay tuned for ticket details in term 2!

Kerryn Hoernel

Director /Choreographer 

Adam Platenkamp

Co-Director/Backstage Manager

Sara Neep

Musical Director

SOC Meets JET – An Evening of OzRock

The South Oakleigh College Music Department presented our first concert of 2025 on March 27 – and we rocked! The concert featured a Q&A and special performance from Cameron Muncey of JET, a 6-time ARIA Award Winner and co-songwriter of a Number One on the Triple J Hottest 100. Cameron performed the smash hit “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” alongside 82 SOC students. We were then treated to a selection of hits from other Australian artists, performed by our ensembles including Concert Band, Rock Band, String Ensemble, Choir, Chamber Choir, Big Band, our Year 10 Ensemble, our VCE Band and the famous Acez. The concert concluded with all 82 students back on stage performing John Farnham’s ‘You’re The Voice”.

The concert was hosted by our Performing Arts Captains, Ana Donnellon and Harvey Hamilton, who brought their own comedic flare to the evening.

Special thanks to our music teachers Mr Law, Mr Bennett, Ms Wang, Ms Sifris, Ms Neep and Mr Prewett and our absolutely amazing technical crew, Jamie Payet, Atha Tuavai, Tosha Babiy, Philip Clark, Nikita Vaysman and Logan ‘The Trunchbull’ Hamilton.

Music News

Recording Studio at SOC

This term, Miss Neep and her Year 10 music class have been working hard preparing a selection of ensemble pieces to perform in a live recording session, in our new recording studio, within the TV studio at South Oakleigh College. 

Students worked as both roadies and performers, loading in gear and performing in a professional live recording style session in SOC’s new recording studio called Orange Productions. Students and had an induction with Sound Engineer Jamie Payet as he told them through the process, showed them the studio space and shared stories of his years in the music industry and time working with some well-known artists including AD/CD and Alanis Morrisette.

Students tracked 3 songs, using some amazing gear. The process has taught them some very valuable life skills, that are required in the music industry, such as the importance of being prepared as a performer, being able to diversify and adapt in new surroundings, work as team as well as developing their aural skills and awareness in an ensemble setting.

Sara Neep

Music / Voice / Drama Teacher

Aiden Prewett

Head Of Music

Food Studies 

Year 10 Food Studies – Technology faculty.

Over the last three weeks of Term 1, the Year 10 Food Studies students explored how food plays a significant role in special occasions across different cultures in bringing people together. To put this learning into practice, they worked in small groups to create a celebration cake as part of the ‘Foods for Celebration’ topic.

Students followed the design process to carefully investigate, design, and plan their cakes. This involved sketching and annotating their designs, researching icing techniques, and selecting decorations and colours that effectively represent their chosen theme. After completing their production, students critically evaluate their work by reflecting on their practical skills, time management and the adjustments made during the process.

I was blown away by the level of focus, responsibility and pride students displayed in their production on the day. The cakes showcased a range of celebrations including birthdays, religion holidays and personal celebrations. All of the Food Studies students should be very proud of their efforts, top job!

Created by Sylvya Tran and Jade Pashos

Created by Mai Pandjaputra and Jayden Huynh

Created by Eliza Holman, Arabella Calder and Emily Rodriguez

Kirby Lucas 

Humanities and Food Studies 

World Greek Language Day

February 9, the day of remembrance of our national poet Dionysios Solomos, was established as World Greek Language Day. The celebration of this day aims to highlight the contribution of the Greek language to science and culture, both at a European and global level.

It is a special day, as its celebration aims to raise awareness among all of us for the promotion, preservation and dissemination of the Greek language, as well as our culture.

South Oakleigh students studying Greek celebrated this Day by speaking in Greek. 

They highlighted Greek words borrowed by the English language, discussed the significance of the Greek language, and enjoyed challenging themselves with Greek tongue twisters.

Dimitra Maniatis

LOTE Coordinator

VCE Legal Studies – Courts Excursion  

On Thursday 27 February 2025, the Year 12 VCE Legal Studies students visited both the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria as well as the Trial Division of the Supreme Court. In the morning, students made their own way into the CBD to meet at Flagstaff station, for a brief orientation about the CBD legal precinct.  

Next, we headed to the Magistrates’ Court, and gleaned from the media waiting outside that today’s cases included a bail hearing for the alleged “Pam the Bird” graffiti artist, as well as alleged gangland crime boss Fadi Haddara, who was charged with some firearms offences. Then we were greeted by two court Registrars, who gave us a run-down of what the court does. After a short delay, Magistrate Vincenzo Caltabiano joined us to tell us all about his life as a magistrate, having been appointed quite recently, following a career as a solicitor and the head of Legal Aid in Tasmania. We discovered later that His Honour had been presiding over the Haddara case. From media reports we learned that the guns charges had been dropped by police. We then had time to sit in a number of court rooms to observe a variety of real cases, from bail applications to driving offences and intervention orders. We also got the chance to talk to a recent law graduate working at the Duty Lawyer office of Legal Aid Victoria, connecting to yet another aspect of the VCE Study Design. We finished our time at there by checking back in with Magistrate Caltabiano and asking more questions. One lucky student even got to sit at the bench! 

In the afternoon, we made our way to the Supreme Court of Victoria. First, we explored the beautiful Supreme Court Library, discovering amazing artefacts such as the handwritten official record of Ned Kelly’s death sentence and the original gasolier. We then headed to the public gallery for Court 12 to observe part of the Gauchi attempted murder case. We saw a witness being examined and the judge giving directions to the jury. We were fortunate enough to also be greeted by the judge, during a pause in proceedings. 

The students learnt so much, seeing the curriculum come to life in authentic contexts. We also made a very good impression on the staff at both courts, continuing the College’s impeccable reputation at the courts excursion program. 

Jacinta Marlborough 

Legal Studies Teacher 

Humanities

Year 9 humanities have been learning how voting works in general elections. To learn the process, students were asked to develop a political election campaign to run for local council. 

Students were asked to create their own election policies and political advertising. After the campaign speeches, students were asked to vote for their preferred candidates using the preferential voting system. 

The activity was very well received, with lots of good ideas being discussed through democratic processes.

Adam Platenkamp

Head Of Humanities 

Physics Excursion 

The year 12 Physics class went to Luna Park on Wednesday 5th March. This is organised by Vicphysics organisation and is a day to experience Newton’s Laws regarding force and accelerations. We had a lovely day and are able to incorporate physics concepts with the rides experienced on the day. This excursion fits in perfectly with the first Area of study which is “How fast can things go?”

Phillip Carmody

Physics Teacher 

The Green Team 

(Sustainability club) - planting of grasses at the front of the school.

On a windy autumn day during term 1, members of the The Green Team planted grasses outside the front of the school.

Students were engaged with every aspect of the panting: digging the space, separating the roots of pot-bound plants, fertilizing the hole, planting the shrub, then watering the plant. We look forward to watching our grasses grow over the coming months.

This planting will not only beautify our school but will help mitigate some of the destructive effects of rising temperatures and climate change.

Alison Jones

The Green Team Co-ordinator.