Junior and Middle and Senior Level Leaders Report

End Of Term 2 :

Year 7 and 8 Leader Report 

Year 7

End of Semester Celebration

As we approach the end of another busy and successful semester, I would like to take a moment to celebrate the many achievements of our Year 7 students.

One of the highlights of the past fortnight has been our letter-writing project to our wonderful school cleaners, Boris and Tamara. Students took the time to write thoughtful and appreciative letters recognising the important work they do each day to keep our school clean, safe and welcoming. The kindness and gratitude shown by our students was something we can all be proud of.

We have also now completed our final CATs for Semester 1. I was extremely impressed by the calm, focused and mature way Year 7 students approached their assessments. Despite some students having multiple assessments scheduled across different subjects on the same day, they demonstrated resilience, organisation and determination. Their efforts should be celebrated.

One piece of news that certainly generated some excitement amongst our Year 7 students was an unexpected offer from a local business, which has generously donated pizza vouchers to support our mentor program. These vouchers will be used to recognise positive behaviour, effort and contribution throughout the year. It is fantastic to see local organisations acknowledging the great work our students are doing, and we thank them for their generosity and support.

This term also saw our first student-led assembly. It was fantastic to watch students step outside their comfort zones, take risks and develop confidence while presenting in front of their peers. Public speaking can be challenging, and our presenters should be commended for their courage and preparation. We are looking forward to our next student-led assembly scheduled for next Wednesday.

Uniform Expectations

As the weather becomes colder, we have noticed an increase in students wearing non-uniform pants to school. While we understand students want to stay warm and comfortable, it is important that all students wear the correct academic uniform.

Recently we have seen students wearing jeans, leggings, tracksuit pants, football shorts and oversized casual pants that do not meet the school's uniform requirements. While some of these choices may be comfortable, they are not part of the approved school uniform.

Students are expected to wear tailored black school pants as part of the academic uniform. Suitable options are available through PSW, Kmart and Big W.

At assembly this week we will revisit the purpose of a school uniform. School is one of the great levellers in society. Students come from many different backgrounds and circumstances, yet the uniform helps ensure that students are not judged by their family's financial situation, fashion choices or social status. Every child deserves the opportunity to receive a quality education in an environment where they feel accepted, included and able to focus on learning.

It is also important to recognise that many families make significant sacrifices to ensure their children have the correct uniform, and some students receive assistance through community and government support programs. Wearing the uniform correctly demonstrates respect for those efforts and helps maintain a sense of belonging and fairness across our school community.

We would also like to remind students that football shorts are not appropriate when worn with the academic uniform.

For the same reason, students should not attend school wearing fake eyelashes, acrylic nails or gel nails. While these may be enjoyable during holidays and special occasions, they are not appropriate for school and can create unnecessary distractions from learning.

If families have any questions or concerns regarding uniform requirements, please contact Stephanie Heppel, Director of Junior School, who will be happy to assist.

Looking Ahead to Semester 2

Students and families may have noticed some changes appearing on Compass timetables. These changes reflect preparations for Semester 2, which will commence on 22 June. While students will continue with their core subjects of English, Humanities, Mathematics and Science, many students will begin exciting new elective subjects.

The purpose of electives is to allow students to explore new areas of learning, develop new skills and collect experiences that may help shape future interests and pathways. We encourage students to approach these new classes with enthusiasm, curiosity and a willingness to challenge themselves.

As we reach the end of term, students are understandably becoming tired. However, it is important that they continue to demonstrate positive learning behaviours, work hard in class and build strong working relationships with their teachers. A positive start in a new subject can make a significant difference, and first impressions matter.

Thank you to all Year 7 students and families for your continued support throughout the semester. It has been wonderful to watch our students grow in confidence, resilience and maturity. We look forward to finishing the term strongly and celebrating the many achievements that have made our Year 7 cohort such a positive part of the South Oakleigh College community.

Grant Bowman – Year 7 Leader

Year 8 

Congratulations to our Year 8 students on the successful completion of their exams. They demonstrated exemplary behaviour throughout, consistently reflecting our HRRRT school values. It has truly been a fantastic semester, and we encourage everyone to recognise and celebrate the growth, effort, and achievements of our students.

We are also proud of Lidia, Kintan, and Rory, who represented our school at the EMR Cross Country event. Their commitment and sportsmanship were outstanding. In addition, our Year 8 Boys Soccer team has enjoyed great success, progressing through to the Monash Division — a fantastic achievement.

Students also enthusiastically participated in our Medieval Day, embracing the experience and actively engaging in the activities. It was wonderful to see such energy and involvement across the cohort.

Starting Monday 22nd June, students will begin their new electives. You may notice some changes to your child’s timetable, and students will receive information about their new subjects during the week.

Looking ahead, we are very excited for next term’s 3-day camp, Curiosity Quest. This is not a traditional camp experience, but an immersive program designed to inspire critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving, while fostering curiosity and resilience.

Rooted in our school motto, “Knowledge Conquers All,”Curiosity Quest reflects our belief that through exploration, inquiry, and collaboration, students can overcome challenges and broaden their understanding of the world. Across the three days, students will engage in meaningful, real-world experiences that prioritise both intellectual and social growth.

We strongly encourage all students to fully embrace this opportunity — it is a unique and valuable part of the Year 8 journey.

Further information will be shared soon.

Ashley Aylen – Year 8 Leader

Year 9 and 10 Leader Report 

As another busy term draws to a close, it is a great opportunity to reflect on the many experiences and achievements of our Year 9 students. Term 2 has been filled with opportunities for students to challenge themselves, demonstrate resilience and contribute positively to our school community.

Early in the term, students embraced the House Cross Country Carnival with enthusiasm, determination and plenty of House spirit. It was wonderful to see so many students participating, encouraging one another and enjoying the friendly competition.

A significant milestone this term was the Semester One examination period. I was extremely pleased with the maturity and commitment shown by our Year 9 students as they prepared for and completed their examinations. Many students approached this experience with a positive attitude, demonstrating organisation, perseverance and a genuine desire to achieve their personal best. These are valuable skills that will continue to support them throughout their secondary schooling.

We finished the term on a high with the House Athletics Carnival. The day was filled with energy, participation and healthy rivalry as students represented their Houses with pride. Whether competing on the track or in the field events, or cheering on their teammates, it was fantastic to see students supporting one another and contributing to the positive atmosphere throughout the day.

As we head into the mid-year break, I encourage all students to take the opportunity to rest, recharge and enjoy some quality time with family and friends. I hope everyone has a safe, relaxing and well-deserved holiday, and I look forward to welcoming our Year 9 students back for another exciting term of learning in Term 3.

Bill Karakousis – Year 9 Leader

As we come to the end of Term 2, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding efforts of our Year 10 cohort. It has been another successful term, and I am incredibly proud of the way our students have continued to demonstrate resilience, maturity, and a commitment to their learning. Their positive attitude and willingness to embrace new opportunities have contributed to a productive and rewarding term.

I would also like to sincerely thank you, as parents and caregivers, for your continued support throughout the term. The strong partnership between home and school is instrumental in helping our students achieve success, and your encouragement and involvement are greatly appreciated. I would also like to acknowledge the dedication of our Middle School Level Leaders and Year 10 teaching staff, whose ongoing guidance, care, and commitment have helped our students grow both academically and personally.

As we look ahead to Term 3, there are several important milestones for our Year 10 students as they begin preparing for their senior years. A key focus will be careers and pathway planning, with students continuing to explore future opportunities and make informed decisions about their post-school aspirations.

Another significant event will be the Year 11 subject selection process. Students will receive guidance and support as they consider their strengths, interests, and future career goals when selecting subjects for 2027. We encourage families to have open conversations at home about these decisions and to take advantage of the information and support available throughout the process.

We will also continue to place a strong emphasis on maintaining our high expectations regarding uniform and school etiquette. Wearing the correct school uniform with pride and demonstrating respectful behaviour are important aspects of representing both themselves and our school community. We appreciate the ongoing support of families in reinforcing these expectations, as they contribute to a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Finally, as we enter the second half of the year, we encourage students to return from the holidays refreshed, organised, and ready to continue building on the progress they have made so far. Consistent attendance, positive learning habits, and a willingness to challenge themselves will place students in the best position for success.

Thank you once again for your continued support and partnership throughout the term. I wish you and your family a safe, restful, and enjoyable holiday break, and I look forward to another successful term with our Year 10 students.

Peter Pizanias– Year 10 Leader

Year 11 and 12 Leader Report 

Year 11

As we conclude Term 2, I would like to acknowledge the hard work you have demonstrated throughout the semester. I would especially like to commend your positive attitude and behaviour during the exam period.

In Term 3, we look forward to planning your Formal. Tickets will be available to for purchase shortly after the school holidays.

Enjoy your break, take time to spend with your family and recharge for Semester 2.

Sylvia Kotszyi  – Year 11 Leader

Year 12 

Our Year 12 students have been deep in SAC season, juggling study, assessments and everyday school life with real determination — and their effort hasn't gone unnoticed. We are incredibly proud of the resilience and work ethic on display across the cohort.

Celebration Assembly – This Thursday

This Thursday, we come together as a year level to celebrate. Our Celebration Assembly will showcase students who have achieved excellent results in their SACs — recognising the hard work and dedication behind those outcomes. We look forward to the whole cohort being there to cheer on their peers.

Holidays: Time to Recharge — But Keep Unit 3 Moving

The upcoming holidays are a well-earned chance to rest and recharge. At the same time, they're a valuable opportunity to consolidate Unit 3 content before exams arrive later in the year.

We strongly encourage every student to ask their subject teachers for a Practice Unit 3 Exam to complete over the break. To get the most out of it:

·       Complete it under exam-style conditions — timed, no notes, no distractions.

·       Hand it to your teacher to mark when you return.

·       Use their feedback to pinpoint specific ways to sharpen your exam technique, not just your content knowledge.

Unit 4 Has Begun

With Unit 4 now underway, it's the perfect time to start (or keep up) summary notes as you go — including for chapters still to come. Staying ahead of this now will make revision far less daunting later in the year.

SWOT Week – Register Now

SWOT Week is a fantastic opportunity for structured exam preparation. Make sure you register:👉 Mid-Year SWOT Week 2026

Take Care of Yourselves

Finally — please make time for yourselves these holidays. Studying hard matters, but so does rest. Enjoy your break, Year 12 — you've earned it!

Andrea Carmody – Year 12 Leader