From SACs to Socials - 

a big term at Holloway Road

End of Term Reflections & Updates

Here we are, already at the end of the first term! For our Year 12 students, this means they have already completed almost one-third of their final school year, with two more full terms ahead, followed by two weeks in Term 4 before SWOTVAC (the pre-exam study period). This is a reminder to all students just how quickly time passes and the importance of making the most of every learning opportunity—whether in class, completing homework, reviewing notes, or accessing the many extra supports available, including Homework Club and effective use of study periods.

Of course, balance is key. We want our students to prioritise their health and wellbeing alongside their studies. Listening to our incredible Wellbeing Coordinator, Isabelle Farrar, in assemblies last week was a great reminder of the importance of “recharging our batteries” through proper fuel, exercise, and taking time for ourselves. Finding this balance isn’t always easy, so if you feel your young person could use guidance on managing their study load or mental health, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Year Level Leader team. They can provide support with study plans, time management strategies, and referrals to the wellbeing team if needed.

A Busy and Productive Term at Holloway Road Campus

It’s been a packed term across all year levels! Our VCE students have been hard at work with key assessments that contribute to their final results, including a busy schedule of SACs, culminating in Super SAC Monday. Year 12s are also eagerly anticipating their formal this week—the biggest social event on their calendar! Our VM students have been out on fantastic excursions, gaining valuable hands-on experiences to build their skills for the future. Year 11 and 10 students have been engaged in end-of-term assessments and celebrations, while Year 10s are also preparing for next term’s work experience and Subject Selection Expo. Meanwhile, Year 9 students have completed their Morrisby assessments and will participate in their Morrisby interviews next term. They’ll also take part in the G10 Summit, an event designed to explore Year 10 subject selection, alongside important wellbeing presentations.

Winter Uniform Transition & New School Shirt

As we return next term, we begin the two-week phase-in period for winter uniform. We are pleased to announce that our new school shirt is now available through our uniform provider, Bob Stewart. This is a compulsory addition for all Year 7 students, with a two-year phase-in period for students in Years 8 to 11. The updated shirt can be worn with or without a tie and is designed to be worn tucked in or loosely.

For those in Years 8 to 11, you may choose to continue wearing the white shirt, but please remember that our uniform policy requires it to be tucked in and worn correctly with a tie. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation in maintaining our school’s professional dress standards.

Campus Upgrades – Window Restoration Project

We are excited to share that the restoration of all windows in the double-storey brick building is nearing completion. While this has required some temporary classroom relocations due to noise, the end result will be well worth the wait—providing improved ventilation and brand-new window furnishings. A huge thank you to our staff and students for their patience and cooperation throughout this process!

We’re excited for the upcoming demolition of the old derelict Arts Precinct buildings in April/May, paving the way for what we hope will become Stage Two of our Master Plan—a brand-new STEM and classroom area. While this space remains off-limits to students unless supervised, and the demolition may cause some minor disruptions, the long-term benefits should be well worth it. We now wait in anticipation of the government funding to move forward with this development. 

House Competition Relaunch!

We are thrilled to announce the relaunch of our House competition, bringing a renewed sense of energy and school spirit to the College. The first event—3-on-3 basketball—has been met with incredible enthusiasm, showcasing teamwork, friendly rivalry, and a strong sense of House pride. It’s fantastic to see so many students getting involved, cheering on their peers, and representing their Houses.

A special shoutout to our House Captains for their leadership in fostering school spirit! This is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and fiercely contested competition throughout the year. Be sure to visit our website to watch videos about the alumni our new Houses are named after and learn more about their inspiring contributions.

A Huge Thank You to Our Parent Community – Working Bee Success

Despite the pouring rain, our incredible parent community turned out in force for our Working Bee on Sunday March 16, bringing boundless enthusiasm and teamwork. Together, we tackled mulching, garden clearing, tidying, and even some new garden-making—transforming our school grounds in just a few hours. We are so grateful for the time and effort from everyone who participated. It is this kind of community spirit that makes our school such a special place. Thank you to all who braved the weather to lend a hand!

A big thank you to the following families for attending:

Killick, Malic, Baranov, Bernhardsson, Millward, Wilson, Johannessen, Lord, Wong, Taylor, Delaney, Moore, Subhawickarama, Hodsman, Watkins, Amith, Schwarzinger, Burns, Olechnowicz, Farr, Forbes, Buchanan and all of the staff who also supported the event. Apologies to any names missing from the sign-in list!

Parent Social Night

A huge thank you to all the parents and carers who joined us at the Black Rock Bowling Club for our social night! It was fantastic to see so many families connecting, sharing stories, and enjoying a relaxed evening together. Special thanks to Penny Stewart and Alicia Gardner for organising such a fantastic event.

Looking ahead, we will need parent support for upcoming events, including our Bunnings Sausage Sizzle, Dance Showcase, and our highly anticipated College Production of Beauty and the Beast in August. If you’re able to assist in any way, please let us know—we’d love your help!

As we wrap up a busy and exciting term, I’d like to wish all our students, staff, and families a fantastic and well-deserved break. For those celebrating, we hope you have a joyful Easter, filled with fun and relaxation. Take this time to recharge, look after yourselves, and stay connected with friends and family.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for another great term ahead. 

Enjoy the holidays!

Vivienne McElwee

9 to 12 Campus Principal