Principal's Report
I know that I cursed it with previous optimistic talk of lighter nights and a hint of spring, but the Ballarat winter has certainly no intention of going quietly as we shiver steadily toward the final weeks of Term 3. Around the TLC and SLC there is a real sense that we are at the ‘business end’ of the academic year as Years 11 & 12 students revise ready for their final examinations. Our VM students are taking advantage of the support on offer from the team and the careers area is a constant hive of activity with Kerrie and Adrian fielding questions and offering advice around course counselling, pathways decisions and accessing TAFE and apprenticeship opportunity. I am so proud of our senior students and the way that they are supporting each other as they come to the final stage of their time with us. This is the time when hard work and dedication to their dream really pays off and time spent on site, acting on the feedback from our staff, will make all the difference.
And whilst this may be the time for solemn focus, I find myself reflecting on how incredibly vibrant, engaging and inspiring the final few weeks of the Term promise to be here at Ballarat High School. It is a time filled with student voice, creativity, academic aspiration, practical enterprise and sporting excellence. In every corner of our school – from the stage to the ovals, from the technology wing to the auditorium – our students have been demonstrating exactly what makes this community so special: dedication, passion and a strong sense of belonging.
One of the most affirming moments in any school year is witnessing the emergence of student leaders – those who are willing to stand before their peers, staff and community to share their vision for the future of our school. This week, we were privileged to hear the School Captain speeches for 2026, with the calibre of candidates this year nothing short of outstanding. I think we owe a lot to our current leaders and those who came before them for setting the bar so high and embracing the positive changes that our school is experiencing within our student culture. Every student’s journey is unique, but at BHS we offer the opportunity to make a difference at every stage. As an audience, our Year 11's attentiveness was impeccable and the respect that they afforded each of their peers, who were brave enough to stand up and speak in Peacock Hall, promised so much of what the Class of 2026 has to offer our school.
Each student who took to the podium did so with authenticity, courage and a deep love for our school community. Whether they spoke about fostering inclusion, amplifying student voice, promoting academic achievement or supporting wellbeing initiatives, every speech was a testament to the thoughtful and empathetic young people we are developing at BHS. What struck me most was not just how articulate they all were, but how passionately they spoke about our school. Most importantly, each speech was not about what they wanted to get from the role, but what they hoped to give back. The future is safe in their hands.
To every student who nominated, presented a speech or supported their friends through this process: congratulations. You are already leaders in the most meaningful sense. We look forward to announcing our 2026 School Captains in the coming weeks and to working closely with all of our student leadership team next year.
If leadership speeches show us the future of our school, then our annual Variety Night reminds us of the incredible talent and spirit alive in our student body right now. Held this Wednesday (I am writing after returning from the show) in a packed Robinson Centre full of proud families, excited students and appreciative staff members it was a true comm unity event with all gathered to celebrate the wide range of artistic gifts possessed by our students.
From high-energy band performances to soulful vocalists, from tight-knit ensembles to hilarious drama improv groups and synchronised dancers, the night had it all. The standard of performance was truly remarkable and what stood out more than anything else was the way our students supported one another. Every act received enthusiastic applause with some great audience participation created by MC for the night Connor Brown. Connor did an amazing job holding it all together and keeping the good vibes going.
A huge thank you must go to our Performing Arts team, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to coordinate rehearsals, manage logistics and support our students in developing their acts. Thank you also to the tech crew, student volunteers and staff who ensured the evening ran smoothly. And of course – to the stars of the night – our performers: it is a really busy time (as always) for the PA team, but they put in all those extra yards because they see the potential and drive within our students- there would be no show without them. I am really looking forward to the upcoming Year 11 VCE Music Evening, Vocal Concert and Concert Band Evening.
Our Year 11 VM (Vocational Major) students have been demonstrating fantastic entrepreneurial spirit and teamwork as they prepare for this year’s Father’s Day stall. From product planning to budgeting, advertising and stock management, students have taken full ownership of the project, developing skills that are directly transferable to future employment or business pathways.
What has impressed me most is their genuine enthusiasm and commitment to providing a joyful experience for younger students, who always enjoy selecting that ‘just-right’ gift for dad, grandpa or a significant figure in their lives. The stall not only promotes enterprise and practical learning – it fosters a sense of community and care which is something that lies at the heart of our VM program.
Well done to all involved – and we look forward to seeing the final results of your efforts next week!
Finally, I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge and congratulate several of our sporting teams who have made it through to State-Level Competitions – an achievement that speaks volumes about their skill, determination and teamwork.
Senior Boys Netball team
Intermediate Boys Soccer team
Year 7 Girls Soccer team
Year 7 Boys Soccer team
To make it to this level is already an incredible feat and we are so proud of your achievements thus far. We wish each team the very best as they represent our school with pride. Regardless of the outcomes, you have already made us proud – not only through your performance but through the way you carry yourselves both on and off the field or court.
A huge thank you also goes to our dedicated PE team, our Sports Coordinators and coaches who invest so much time in training sessions, organisation and travel. Without their support and leadership, these opportunities would not be possible.
Schools are more than just places of academic instruction – they are communities where young people grow, connect and thrive. In the past few weeks, I have seen our students lead with passion, perform with courage, serve with heart and compete with spirit. I have also seen staff and families wrap around them with support and care, not just these last few weeks, but in all of the time I have been at BHS.
Thank you for being such a vital part of our community- as always, we are much stronger together. Through the wind and the rain, you make sure that our students never walk alone.
Stephan Fields
Principal