Senior School Report

Message from the 

Director of  Learning 

Senior School 

Ms Kristina Vasilakis 

Term 3 is always one of the busiest and most productive terms of the year, and it has been wonderful to see our students return with a positive attitude and a strong focus on their learning. Attendance has been pleasing across the Senior School, and we thank families for their ongoing support. As we move further into the term, regular attendance becomes increasingly important. If your child is absent, please ensure absences are explained and appropriate documentation (such as a medical certificate) is provided. 

It was also a pleasure to meet so many students and families during our recent Parent Teacher Conferences. Thank you for taking the time to attend and work in partnership with us to support student learning and wellbeing. 

For our Year 12 students, the finish line is now in sight. Students are working towards completing their Unit 4 coursework and assessments before shifting their focus to final exam preparation and their VTAC applications. As part of this process, students recently participated in a Study Space session with Access Monash, where they explored post-school pathways, university opportunities and the VTAC application process. These sessions provided valuable information to help students make informed decisions about their future study options. 

The end of Term 3 marks several important milestones, including the Year 12 Formal, a celebration of students' final year of secondary school, followed by the VCE Trial Exams during the first week of the September school holidays. These exams provide students with an invaluable opportunity to practise exam technique, manage their time under examination conditions, and identify areas for improvement before the final VCAA examinations. 

As we move into this important stage of the year, we encourage all Year 12 students to establish consistent study routines, complete regular revision, and seek support from their teachers whenever needed. 

Our Year 11 students are beginning to look ahead to 2027, with course counselling commencing later this term. This is an exciting opportunity for students to confirm their Year 12 program and continue planning towards their future pathways. 

As part of this process, students recently created our "Where Will I Be in 2028?" wall, sharing their aspirations for university, TAFE, apprenticeships, employment and other post-school pathways. It has been fantastic to see students thinking about their future goals and the many pathways available to achieve them. 

Developing effective study habits and fostering independent, accountable learners continues to be a major focus across the Senior School. As students progress through VCE, they are expected to take increasing ownership of their learning by attending regularly, meeting deadlines, seeking help when needed, and making productive use of independent study time. 

Success in VCE and beyond school is built on consistent habits rather than last-minute effort. We encourage students to establish regular study routines, minimise distractions, revise consistently, and reflect on their learning. Developing these habits now will help students build the discipline, resilience and focus needed to be successful not only in VCE, but also in university, TAFE, apprenticeships and the workplace. 

To further support families, Elevate Education is offering a free Parent Webinar Series throughout Term 3. These sessions provide practical strategies to help parents support their child's study skills, motivation and exam preparation at home. Webinar topics include motivation, note-taking, managing technology, and supporting students during the exam period. We encourage families to take advantage of these valuable sessions. 

Thank you for your continued support of the Senior School. We look forward to another productive term as our students continue working towards their goals and celebrating their achievements. 

Ms Kristina Vasilakis 

Director of Learning Senior School

Westall Graduate Meets King Charles 

We are incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements of 2025 Westall Secondary College graduate, Shukria Noori, who recently met King Charles III as part of the Afghan Women's Refugee Cricket Team during their tour of England. 

A right-hand batter and wicket-keeper, Shukria has continued to pursue her passion for cricket while representing the Afghan Women's Refugee Cricket Team and advocating for greater opportunities for displaced female athletes. During the team's tour of England, Shukria helped her team secure a two-wicket victory in their opening match before meeting King Charles at Clarence House to share the team's inspiring journey. 

The team's dedication has recently been recognised by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which announced continued support and a pathway for the Afghan Women's Refugee Cricket Team to compete in international qualification events by 2030. 

Shukria's resilience, determination and commitment continue to inspire our school community. We congratulate her on these remarkable achievements and look forward to following her journey both on and off the cricket field.