Oak News

Leading Teachers Report 

Junior School Report

To the South Oakleigh College community, it is incredible to think that three-quarters of the academic year has been completed and we find ourselves well and truly in the home straight for 2023. Our Junior School students have continued to grow and develop on many levels.

 

Our recent College production of Seussical Junior had a number of Year 7 and 8 students in both the cast and crew. It was a fantastic show and credit must go to all of our students and teachers involved for their hard work and dedication with a special mention for our Year 7 leader Ms Hoernel leading the way. 

 

South Oakleigh’s sporting prowess continues to grow as throughout this Term we have enjoyed success both at the team level and also at the individual level. The large number of our students who recently won their events and set multiple records at the Monash Division Athletics Carnival is a credit to their hard work and determination. I look forward to seeing the great results from the next stage of this competition early in Term 4.

 

On the academic front, our students continue to put their best foot forward and have been working diligently to achieve their best. This a reminder that Homework Club is available to all of our students every Monday and Wednesday after school until 4:30 p.m. to complete unfinished work and to get some extra assistance from our dedicated staff. When we return in Term 4 it will only be a few weeks until the exam period begins so it is important students stay on top of their assessment tasks. 

 

I will also take this opportunity to remind students to take all the necessary equipment to every class and ensure they are on time and ready to learn from the start of each lesson.

I hope everyone has a restful break and look forward to seeing all of our students at the start of Term 4.

 

George Tzimourtas

Director of Junior School

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

George Tzimourtas 

Director of Students: Junior School

Middle School Report

As we approach the end of Term 3 at South Oakleigh College, we are excited to share important updates and information regarding our Year 9 and 10 students for next term. We hope this newsletter finds you well and ready for the exciting term ahead.

 

In Week 4 of Term 4, our Year 9 students will embark on an inspiring city experience designed to foster crucial skills in teamwork and independence. Over three days, they will delve deep into Melbourne's rich culture and history. To participate in this experience, please check Compass for details, and we kindly request that consent and payment be submitted by Friday 6th of October (the first week of Term 4). 

 

Highlights of the city experience include:

  • Melbourne Walks, Walking Tour: An immersive exploration of Melbourne's heritage, culture, history, architecture, art, iconic venues, and hidden treasures.
  • MCG Sports Museum and Tour: An interactive dive into Australia's sporting history at the Australian Sports Museum.
  • Bowling and Laser Tag at Strike: An opportunity for our students to bond and enjoy adrenaline-packed fun with their peers.
  • Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka: A breathtaking view of Melbourne from the southern hemisphere's highest observation deck, 300 meters above the city.
  • Escape Room: A teamwork challenge to solve puzzles and escape within a set time frame.
  • Old Melbourne Gaol: A window into the city's history with a visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol, once a dominant symbol of authority.
  • SEALIFE Melbourne Aquarium: An incredible opportunity to discover an underwater world up close.
  • Amazing Race, Urban Quest: An emotionally charged digital scavenger hunt that promotes teamwork and problem-solving.

For our Year 10 students, this time marks a significant transition as they prepare for life as a student in the Senior School. Here, they will embark on the journey of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or Vocational Major (VCE-VM). 

 

Some Year 9 students may also be taking on a Year 11 VCE subject next year, giving them a head start on their VCE studies. 

It's an important time for all students to be considering their future pathways, whether it is university, TAFE or employment. Students are encouraged to explore options with our careers advisor, Mrs. Aviva Mulloy during Term 4. She can provide guidance and support to help make some important but informed decisions. 

 

We also want to remind our middle school students that Term 4 brings the challenge of end-of-year exams. It’s never too early to start preparing and it provides an opportunity to hone their skills for VCE. I encourage parents to have a discussion with their students over the holidays, on how they begin their preparation during the holidays. Discussion about time management and creating a study plan and routine will help ensure students are able to perform at their best. 

 

I’d also like to emphasize the significance of regular school attendance for all our students, not just in Years 9 and 10 but throughout their educational journey. Attending school regularly is fundamental to their success and is strongly linked to improvement in mental health. It ensures that students don’t miss out on valuable lessons, but also provides an opportunity to build positive relationships with friends and teachers, which are essential building blocks for their future. If your child is having difficulty attending school, please reach out to one of our year-level leaders or the wellbeing team for some assistance. 

 

Lastly, we would like to thank all parents, carers and families for your ongoing support and involvement in your child's education journey at South Oakleigh College. 

 

If you have any questions or need further information about any of the topics discussed in this newsletter, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Middle School year level leaders: Year 9 - Phyllis Dimakakos (Phyllis.dimakakos@education.vic.gov.au); Year 10 - Arnie Ioannidis (Anestis.ioannidis@education.vic.gov.au), Year 9 & 10 - Blake Cochrane (blake.cochrane@education.vic.gov.au)

 

We look forward to a successful and rewarding Term 4 ahead, filled with learning, growth, and memorable experiences for our Year 9 and 10 students.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Travis Knox

Director of Students: Middle School

Senior School Report

As we bid farewell to our Year 12s, it's impossible not to reminisce about the unforgettable memories we've created together during your time at our school. From the sun-soaked days at the annual swim carnival, where some of you may have acquired a sunburn or two but left with a smile that could outshine the sun, to the adventures of camp on Philip Island, where bonds were forged, and laughter echoed through the night. 

Valedictory Dinner Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1096757?fbclid=IwAR1FFgP0PZAygGZ2fiMf55m8c30xdcWyMzlBmKrlTUP0fBLHFmbzaEPbuoU 

 

These moments have not only enriched your journey but have also left an indelible mark on our school's community. As you step into the next chapter of your lives, carry these cherished memories with you, for they are a testament to the camaraderie, resilience, and joy that define your Year 12 experience. We are immensely proud of all you've achieved and look forward to seeing the bright futures you'll undoubtedly create. Farewell, Year 12s, and may your path ahead be as radiant as the memories you leave behind. 

 

Practice Exams:

Students are not expected to wear school uniforms for the practice exams however we expect attendance for all exams for scored students.  

 

Revising for Exams 

Preparing for the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) exams is a significant milestone in the academic journey of students in Victoria, Australia. To excel in these exams, it's essential to employ effective study techniques that align with the VCE study design's key knowledge and skills. 

 

Understanding the VCE Study Design: The Foundation 

The VCE study design serves as the blueprint for VCE exams. It outlines the key knowledge and skills that students are expected to demonstrate during their exams. To make the most of their study time, students should begin by thoroughly understanding the study design for each of their subjects. 

 

Study Technique 1: Active Learning and Retrieval Practice 

 

Active learning involves engaging with the material actively rather than passively reading or listening. Students can achieve this by summarizing key concepts, creating flashcards, or teaching the material to someone else. Retrieval practice, which involves actively recalling information from memory, enhances long-term retention. 

 

Study Technique 2: Past Exam Papers and Practice Questions 

 

One of the best ways to prepare for VCE exams is by practising with past exam papers and a variety of practice questions. This helps students familiarize themselves with the exam format, question styles, and time constraints. It also allows them to identify weak areas that need more attention. 

 

Study Technique 3: Study Groups and Peer Teaching 

 

Study groups can be an effective way to reinforce understanding. When students explain concepts to their peers, it deepens their comprehension and allows them to see the material from different perspectives. Collaboration can lead to a more comprehensive grasp of the subject matter. 

 

Study Technique 4: Time Management and Consistency 

 

Creating a study schedule is crucial to ensure comprehensive coverage of the curriculum. Students should allocate time for each subject, making sure to review previously covered material. Consistency is key; regular, shorter study sessions are often more productive than cramming. 

 

Study Technique 5: Mindful Revision 

 

Mindful revision involves staying focused and present during study sessions. Minimize distractions, take breaks, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing. This approach can enhance concentration and memory retention. 

 

Study Technique 6: Seek Guidance and Feedback 

 

Don't hesitate to seek guidance from teachers or tutors when struggling with specific topics. Their expertise can clarify doubts and provide valuable insights. Additionally, requesting feedback on practice exams or assignments can pinpoint areas for improvement. 

 

Study Technique 7: Adaptability and Problem Solving 

 

VCE exams often present unexpected challenges. To tackle these, students should develop problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to new situations. Understanding the underlying principles of a subject allows for more flexible problem-solving. 

 

In conclusion, mastering VCE exams requires a combination of effective study techniques that align with the VCE study design's key knowledge and skills. Active learning, practice exams, collaboration, time management, mindfulness, seeking guidance, and adaptability are all crucial elements of a successful VCE exam preparation strategy. By implementing these techniques, students can approach their exams with confidence and maximize their chances of achieving their academic goals. 

 

Holiday Revision Programs  

Private education providers like TSSM and TSFX have emerged as go-to destinations for students seeking expert guidance in their exam preparation. These organizations offer specialized revision programs designed to elevate students' knowledge and exam-taking skills. 

 

TSSM has built a strong reputation for its comprehensive revision programs. Covering a wide array of subjects, TSSM's courses are structured to help students consolidate their understanding, fine-tune their exam strategies, and boost their confidence. With experienced educators at the helm, students receive personalized guidance that is invaluable in navigating the complexities of their exams. 

 

TSFX takes a subject-specific approach, tailoring its revision lectures to individual subjects. This targeted approach allows students to concentrate their efforts on areas where they need the most support. For those aspiring to excel in specific subjects, TSFX's approach can be a game-changer. 

 

Introduction to SWOT Week: 

SWOT Week is a biannual VCE revision program run by the Student Welfare Outreach Program (SWOT) at the University of Melbourne with the aim of providing opportunities for VCE Unit 3/4 students from underrepresented schools in Victoria.  

 

The interactive session will complement your studies, providing you with resources and guidance from top VCE graduates. This is also a chance for you to experience university life and meet peers from around Victoria. 

 

The program will also provide you with sessions such as Pseudocode Workshops - a new area of the study design for Methods and Specialist Maths - and a University tour. A full description of each of the sessions is provided in the lesson summary document here or go to https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zjXf0BUiU_RN7Tcu1ezsEvV0l78B1HDn/view?usp=drive_link  

 

Note that, with the exception of LOTE subjects, all other subjects are run in person at the University of Melbourne Parkville Campus. LOTE subjects are intended to be delivered online only, but there will be room for students who have other in-person subjects to join on Zoom while they are on campus. 

 

Event details: 

Price: $2 per session for subjects, additional workshops such as the Pseudocode workshops and LOTE sessions (which are online) are free. If you require financial support for purchasing tickets, you can contact swot@muhi.org.au for further information 

 

How to register: Click here or go to https://events.humanitix.com/end-of-year-swot-week-2023. For more information, please see the attached FAQs by clicking here or go to https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Gm4TR0_3zU3LElk3UKtExWh3mZJW8_fj/view?usp=drive_link  

 

Session resources will be sent the week after the conclusion of SWOT Week to your registered email address. 

  • If you cannot attend SWOT Week, you can still receive our revision resources — please subscribe with this form or go to https://forms.gle/MFSMquy3ebNXuwub9 . The resources will be sent to you for free approximately the week after the conclusion of SWOT Week. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grace Terdich

Director of Students: Senior School