Senior School Principal Report

Year 10 Presentation Ball

The Presentation Ball was held at The Grand on Cathies Lane on Thursday 11 September. Our Year 10 debutantes were formally introduced and performed rehearsed dances with their partners, supported by families and special guests.

A highlight of the evening was the special person's dance and the reading of student biographies, where participants shared their interests, career aspirations, and appreciation for friends and loved ones. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this long-standing Norwood tradition.

Overall, the event ran smoothly and marked an important milestone for those involved. Thank you to Ms Annie Hearne (Head of Year Level) and Ms Jessica Bishop (Year 10 Coordinator) for their organisation and support of this event.

Year 12 - VCE Vocational Major

As our Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students officially finish their time with us today, we want to take a moment to express how proud we are of each and every one of them. Their dedication, growth, and contributions to the school community have been truly inspiring.

Last Friday, it was a pleasure to be involved in their mock interviews, where students demonstrated confidence, professionalism, and a clear sense of direction for their future pathways. These interviews not only showcased their readiness for the workforce but also highlighted the valuable skills they’ve developed throughout the year.

We also commend their recent efforts in supporting the Backpacks for Vic Kids fundraiser, a worthy cause that provides essential items to children entering emergency care. Their initiative and compassion reflect the values we strive to instil in all our students.

As they move on to their next ventures, whether it be employment, additional study, or training, we wish them every success. We look forward to hearing about their achievements and the positive impact they will undoubtedly make in their communities and workplaces.

Congratulations, Year 12 VCE VM students. You’ve made us proud, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for you.

Year 12 - Preparing for Exams

Our Year 12 students are now busily preparing for their final VCE exams, with practice exams scheduled for each subject during the second week of the Term 3 holidays. These sessions are a valuable opportunity for students to simulate exam conditions, refine their time management, and identify areas for improvement. In some subjects, VCAA External Assessors will be marking the practice exams, providing high-quality feedback that will help students understand their strengths and target their revision more effectively. 

As we enter this critical period, it’s important that students balance focused study with wellbeing. 

Year 12 Students - Preparing for schoolies

We know that some students are already excited to celebrate their final year of secondary school with their friends.

The tragic deaths of 2 Victorian teenagers, Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, from methanol poisoning while holidaying together in Laos in 2024 remind us of the importance of staying safe and being aware of risks.

This year, schoolies celebrations will run from Saturday 29 November to Saturday 13 December in Victoria. Beyond these dates, some students may be traveling interstate or overseas for the occasion.

Speak with your child early

We encourage parents and carers to speak with their child early about any plans for the end of the year.

Providing appropriate and accurate information about alcohol and other drug use, sex and consent, and personal safety can be the key to reducing risks and minimising harm. The Raising Children Network has information to help families start talking about schoolies, including expectations and how to stay safe.

Red Frogs Australia, a volunteer group that help young people stay safe and seek help at events like schoolies, has tips and advice for students and families.

You and your young person can also refer to the following resources that promote staying safe for schoolies, events and travel:

• Better Health Channel, for advice on partying safely at schoolies

• Alcohol and Drug Foundation, for advice on staying safe at schoolies and information on potential alcohol and drug harms when travelling

• Victoria Police, for advice on staying safe at school leaver celebrations. The page includes videos about sexual assault, illicit drugs and road safety.

• Smartraveller, for advice on overseas travel for school leavers and partying safely

• Doctors without Borders, for information on methanol poisoning for travellers

Sun Safety

Protecting students from harmful UV exposure is really important to us. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation during childhood and adolescence is a major risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma, which is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in young Victorians aged 15 to 29.

To support sun safety, we’ve added sunscreen to the 2026 booklist to encourage students to take personal responsibility for their protection. Additionally, sunscreen is available in the gym for students to access before PE classes and during lunchtime when outdoors.

We encourage all families to support sun protection by ensuring students wear sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen daily. In Term 4, we will be sharing a new Sun Protection Policy with our school community.

As Term 3 comes to a close, I’d like to thank all our families for their ongoing support and partnership throughout the term. Whether you're travelling, relaxing at home, or spending time with loved ones, I hope the upcoming break provides a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy some well-deserved downtime.

Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday!