From the Principal's Desk

 End of Year Update

As we finish the school year I would like to thank school staff, parents, carers and families for your support over the past twelve months. 

2025 has been the most successful year in Lara Secondary College’s history! We have had outstanding VCE results (the second best in our history), brilliant NAPLAN outcomes in numeracy, with all indicators suggesting we will see similar growth in NAPLAN reading in 2026, some of the best student attitudes to school survey data in Victorian secondary schools and rapidly improving attendance. 

The Awards Night last night, highlighted by the sheer number of students who received awards across all year levels. The evening was a great celebration of student achievement and a very powerful reminder of the diverse opportunities provided by the college for our students. I congratulate each and every student who was recognised at the Awards Night and the many students who received awards over the course of the year in the end of term Celebration Assemblies and at our Mid-Year Honours evening, which explicitly acknowledged student performance.

Last night was also our final opportunity to acknowledge the brilliant work of the class of 2025 who we wish all the best in the future. Congratulations again to VCE Dux Sky McMaster and VCE-VM Duc Jessica Green on outstanding years. 

It is also noteworthy that over 22,000 success passes were awarded 2025, each one recognising students that are living our values of Excellence, Respect, Commitment and Teamwork.. This is fabulous recognition of student behaviour and our commitment to reinforcing positive behaviours. 

On behalf of the College community I would like to acknowledge the following staff who are leaving the College. I thank each for their support of our students and their contribution to our school and wish them the very best in the future:

• Ben Johnson
• Lisa Stevenson
• Bridie Feehan
• Anna Morris 

A huge thank you to our School Councillors  who have continued to advocate for and support our college, students and staff. Your work is greatly appreciated and we look forward to your continued work in 2026. 

I also want to acknowledge and thank every staff member; teaching and non-teaching for their contribution to the college program and their very active support of our students. The hard work and commitment to our College is greatly appreciated. 

To all students, parents, carers and families please have a safe and happy holiday and I look forward to seeing you in the new year.

Luke Skewes

Principal