Secondary School
Stones of Remembrance
As we prepare to move into the second half of Term 3, it is perhaps a little to easy for us to focus our attention on what still lies ahead. There are assessments to complete, performances to prepare for, sporting competitions to contest, leadership positions to fill, and countless plans are already underway for 2027. Schools are places of constant movement and change, and the momentum of a busy term can often keep our eyes fixed firmly on the next event, even as Scripture reminds us that there is wisdom in occasionally pausing to look behind us.
In Joshua 4, after God had miraculously steered the Israelites across the Jordan River, He instructed representatives from each of the twelve tribes to collect stones from the riverbed and place them on the shore. These stones became a memorial, serving as a visible reminder of God's faithfulness and ongoing provision. The stones marked a significant moment in the journey and ensured that future generations would know what God had done for them and how he was ever faithful. Whenever someone would ask, “What do these stones mean?”, the people would have an opportunity to recount God's goodness and faithfulness.
As a Secondary School community, we have an opportunity in Term 3 to do something similar. While we may not be gathering stones from a riverbank, there have been many moments throughout this year that deserve to be recognised and remembered, allowing us to recount God’s goodness and faithfulness. They serve as markers of growth, achievement, and community. They are our own “stones of remembrance” as we pause and reflect on how far we have come this year.
One such stone was our recent Music Assembly. While our assemblies often provide an opportunity to celebrate student achievement, this event also gave our various ensembles the chance to showcase the results of countless hours of dedication, rehearsal, and refinement. Performances that appear effortless on stage are built upon weeks and months of practice, commitment, and collaboration behind the scenes.
We are grateful for the tremendous work of Mr Jeffrey Clarke, Mr Aaron Chan and Miss Hina Sasuga, whose leadership and preparation played a significant role in the success of the event. We also acknowledge the many instrumental tutors whose expertise and encouragement continue to nurture the musical development of our students. The assembly served as a reminder that excellence is never accidental. It is cultivated through consistent effort, guidance, and a willingness to persevere through challenges.
Another significant milestone this term was our Secondary School Production, Disney's Newsies. What a remarkable achievement the production represented for our school community. The reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, and the enthusiasm generated throughout the school was evident long before opening night.
What stood out most was not simply the quality of the performances, but the spirit surrounding the production. Students and staff invested enormous amounts of time and energy into rehearsals, set preparation, costumes, technical production, choreography, music, and countless other details that audiences often never see. The excitement of those involved was contagious.
As we have also begun preparing for 2027, another important marker has been our subject selection process. Students across Years 7 to 11 have engaged in thoughtful conversations about their interests, aspirations, and future pathways as they selected subjects for next year. Mrs Este van Rensburg, Mr Andrew Piper and Mrs Kelly Lock met with our Year 10 students to guide their VCE selections. These decisions are important moments in a student's educational journey, requiring maturity, reflection, and planning.
We have also celebrated the presentation of our second round of School Colours for the year. These awards recognise students who have demonstrated excellence and commitment across a range of pursuits. Such recognition is important because it highlights not only achievement itself but also the perseverance, discipline, and dedication required to achieve at a high level. The recipients should be congratulated for the example they set for others within our community.
Leadership development has likewise remained a significant focus. Applications for our 2027 Senior School Student Leadership positions have now been reviewed, and interviews will commence shortly. It has been encouraging to see so many students willing to step forward and serve the school community. Leadership is not primarily about titles or recognition. Rather, it is about service, responsibility, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. We look forward to seeing the next generation of student leaders emerge through this process.
Term 2 has also seen the introduction of our new reporting format with the new Interim Report format released at the end of Term 3. While academic achievement remains important, the revised report structure seeks to paint a richer and more complete picture of student growth. Alongside assessment results, greater emphasis is given to effort, behaviour, and work habits, while progress is tracked against the Australian Curriculum Version 9 achievement standards. We hope this provides families with clearer information about student development and recognises the many dimensions of success that contribute to learning.
Beyond the classroom, there have been many other achievements worthy of recognition. Our Debating team reached the finals, demonstrating impressive communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. We have also celebrated successes in Division Athletics, where students represented the school with determination and resilience. These achievements reflect not only talent but also the discipline and commitment required to perform at such a high standard.
None of these accomplishments happened by accident. Behind every performance, competition, award, application, report, and assessment lies a story of effort, encouragement, perseverance, and growth.
And so, as we move into the second half of Term 3, perhaps it is worth pausing for a moment to consider the stones we have placed upon the shore. They remind us of where we have been, what we have achieved, and how God has been at work amongst us this year.
The story in Joshua reminds us that remembering is not merely an exercise in nostalgia. The Israelites looked back to move forward with faith and confidence. The stones testified to God's faithfulness in the past and strengthened their faith for the future.
As we continue through the remainder of this term and look ahead to all that is still to come, we do so in appreciation for the contributions of our students, staff, and families, and confidence that the God who has guided us to this point will continue to lead us forward.
When your children ask, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them... Joshua 4:6b-7a
Mr James Avram
Deputy Principal and Head of Secondary