Leading Teachers Report
Beginning Of Term 1:
Junior School Report
It’s great to be back at our school for another year. I would like to welcome all our new Year 7 students to the Junior School and congratulate them on the fantastic start to the year that they have had. I would also like to welcome Mr Bowman as Year 7 Leader and Ms Heppel as Year 8 Leader. They have both hit the ground running and I am positive it will be a great year in the Junior School.
All the Year 7 students participated in a three-week transition program to assist our students with the big leap they have made from primary into secondary school. During this time our Year 7s partook in several activities designed to get our students more familiar with one another and our college generally. Our Year 10 Peer Support Leaders were also involved in the Induction Program, helping to forge new bonds amongst our newest students. Peer Support will continue to play a key role in assisting our Year 7s throughout the year.
Year 7 teachers and students will embark on a 3-day camp to Arrabri Lodge in Warburton at the end of this month. Camp is crucial in further strengthening the new bonds the cohort of students has started to form, and we look forward to forming new memories for this group. Our Year 7 meet and greet barbeque will also follow later this Term and give our students and parents an opportunity to meet with their teachers on the night.
The year 8 students have seamlessly slotted into their new role in the school and have been providing our Year 7s with support and guidance. Students were reminded at our first assembly this year to get involved in all the extra-curricular activities we have on offer at South Oakleigh College. It is through these extra- curricular opportunities that students can connect with their peers and teachers. It was pleasing to see so many students participating in recent House Swimming event at Oakleigh Pools and displaying so much house pride!
I would also like to remind our students about the importance of arriving to school on time every day in the correct uniform and ensuring that they have all the correct materials for class including a charged laptop, notebook, pencil case, planner and any other materials their teachers have asked them to bring to the class.
George Tzimourtas
Director of Students: Junior School
Middle School Report
Welcome to the start of another exciting school year! It has been wonderful to see our students return with enthusiasm and a strong sense of purpose. As we begin Term 1, we would like to extend a warm welcome to two new members of our Middle School team.
Mr Bill Karakousis joins us as the Year 9 Year Level Leader, and Ms Sylvia Kostzyi takes on the role of Year 10 Year Level Leader. Both bring a wealth of experience in student services from their previous school, and they are eager to support and guide our students throughout the year. We are very lucky to have them on board.
We are also pleased to share that our Middle School Parent Information Night was a great success. It provided an excellent opportunity for families to gain valuable insights into important policies, procedures and information for 2025. For those who were unable to attend, a recording of the session is available via the Compass Newsfeed.
The House Swimming Sports event was a fantastic way to start the year, with so many of our Middle School students participating and displaying great house spirit. It was an enjoyable day filled with competition, teamwork, and fun. Thank you to all students and staff who contributed to making the event a success.
As we look ahead, we remind our students to embrace our college HRRRT values in their learning and personal growth. These values serve as the foundation for a positive and successful school experience, and we encourage all students to demonstrate them in their daily interactions and efforts.
A quick reminder to all students about the importance of attendance—being present and on time for every lesson maximises learning opportunities and sets a strong foundation for success. Additionally, wearing the correct uniform with pride reflects our shared commitment to our school community. Please ensure you are following uniform expectations, including wearing black leather polishable shoes and a blazer to and from school.
We look forward to a productive and rewarding year ahead, working together to support each student in achieving their best.
Travis Knox
Director of Students: Middle School
Senior School Report
Welcome to the 2025 academic year! As we begin another exciting year, we extend a warm welcome back to our Year 11 and 12 students and their families. Senior school is a pivotal time in a student’s educational journey, and we are committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment to help all students achieve their goals.
We are also pleased to introduce our new Senior School team, who will be working closely with students throughout the year:
Blake Cochrane – Year 12 Leader
Kasey Boxell – Year 11 Leader
We recognise that VCE and VCE VM studies require dedication, perseverance, and hard work. Our team is here to guide, support, and encourage every student, ensuring they have the tools and strategies to succeed in their studies. We encourage open communication between students, parents, and staff to foster a collaborative approach to learning and wellbeing.
As we embark on this journey together, we wish all our senior students a successful and rewarding year ahead. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and milestones throughout 2025.
Jessica Ferguson
Director of Students: VCE and VCE VM