Assistant Principal Report Senior School/Operations

Year 12 Camp:

Our Year 12 students started Term 2 with their final school camp at The Summit in Trafalgar for three memorable days focused on challenge, connection, and reflection.

The camp was designed to extend students both physically and mentally, encouraging them to step beyond their comfort zones and embrace new experiences. Throughout the camp, students took part in a range of activities. From conquering fears on the Giant Swing and Jump Free, to demonstrating balance and determination on the High Wire, and working collaboratively in team challenges such as Laser Skirmish, students consistently supported and encouraged one another. 

Students also participated in wellbeing sessions exploring stress management and strategies to navigate the pressures of Year 12, reinforcing the importance of maintaining balance and perspective. In addition, students engaged in English and VCE VM workshops, helping to strengthen their preparation for the academic demands ahead.

Students were also provided with the opportunity for reflection when they revisited letters they had written to themselves in Year 9, providing a powerful moment to recognise their growth, resilience, and achievements over their school journey.

Students also enjoyed some light-hearted competition during a highly engaging Trivia Night, run by Year 12 Coordinators Miss Purcell and Mr Vogt, which brought plenty of energy and laughter to the group.

As always, the Monster Course proved to be a real highlight. This muddy, team-based obstacle course challenged students’ endurance and teamwork, with students embracing the experience with enthusiasm and determination. Covered in mud, students demonstrated resilience and cooperation as they worked together to complete the course.

Whilst at camp students strengthened peer connections and created lasting memories that will stay with them well beyond their final year.

We would like to thank the staff who attended and supported students as they took on new challenges, with a special thank you to the Year 12 team for their organisation and commitment in making the camp a success.

As students return to school, they are encouraged to carry forward the lessons from camp, the importance of perseverance, the value of teamwork, and the confidence to challenge themselves as they continue through their final year and beyond.

The Summit has provided us with a blog post from our camp at the start of the term. This can be accessed via the link below https://thesummit.net.au/parkdale-secondary-college/

Year 11 Futures Program:

In the first week of term, our Year 11 students participated in the Futures Program designed to support their transition into life beyond school. The program focused on three key areas: future planning, personal wellbeing, and strengthening peer connections.

Across the three days, students took part in a range of interactive careers workshops, wellbeing sessions, and team-building activities. These experiences encouraged students to reflect on their individual strengths, interests, and values, while also building important skills.

A highlight of the program was guest presenters from Success Integrated, who worked with students to help reduce uncertainty about their future pathways. Through practical activities and discussions, students were guided to better understand how their passions and abilities can align with potential career and study options. Throughout the session, DJ LeTunes kept the energy high and the vibe positive, adding to the atmosphere with upbeat music. Another valuable skill building session for students was the Finance Matters session presented by Mr. Bormanis that focused on helping students build their understanding of money management and informed decision-making as they move towards greater independence.

A standout session was delivered by Sonya Karras from A Whole New World. Sonya’s engaging and informative presentation addressed safe partying and the impacts of drugs and alcohol. Her honest and relatable approach encouraged students to think critically about their choices and the importance of looking after themselves and their peers.

On the final day of the program, students visited a range of tertiary institutions, gaining valuable firsthand insight into post-school opportunities. These visits provided a meaningful glimpse into campus life, course options and future possibilities, helping students feel more informed and confident about the pathways ahead.

Congratulations to our Year 11 students for their positive engagement throughout the program. Thank you to the Year 11 and Pathways Team for their organisation and support of the program. We also thank Jake for the Wellbeing presentation and Mr. Bormanis for the finance session.

Overall, the Futures Program was a highly worthwhile experience, equipping our Year 11 students with practical knowledge, greater self-awareness, and a stronger sense of direction as they begin to plan for life beyond school.

Careers Expo:

On May 1st, a group of 40 Year 11 students attended the VCE and Careers Expo, with more than 120 exhibitors, this event offers students an incredible opportunity to explore future pathways.

Throughout the day, students engaged with a wide range of exhibitors, including universities, TAFEs, training organisations, and industry representatives. These conversations allowed students to gain firsthand insights into tertiary courses, career pathways, and employment opportunities, helping them make more informed decisions about their future.

In addition to visiting exhibitor stands, students had access to a variety of seminars covering key topics such as VCE subject specific sessions, study advice, and gap year opportunities. 

The experience encouraged students to think broadly about their options beyond school and to begin considering the steps needed to achieve their goals. Many students left with useful resources, new ideas, and increased confidence about their future directions.

We commend the students who attended for their engagement and curiosity throughout the day and would like to also thank our Pathways Team for providing our Year 11s with the opportunity to attend the expo and for accompanying students on the day. 

General Achievement Test (GAT) 

On Tuesday 16 June, all students undertaking a Unit 3 and 4 VCE or scored VCE VET subject will sit the General Achievement Test (GAT). The GAT plays an important role in the VCE assessment process. The GAT assesses a student’s literacy and numeracy skills, as well as general knowledge and skills in areas such as written communication, mathematics, science, technology, humanities, and the arts. 

Students are reminded that attendance at the GAT is compulsory for all students enrolled in a Unit 3 and 4 study. Students are reminded to arrive on time, in full school uniform, and bring all required materials, including pens, pencils, an approved calculator, and a dictionary.

To support students in preparing for the day, Year 12 students have already commenced GAT preparation sessions. Year 11 students completing a Unit 3/4 subject will attend a preparation session on Wednesday 27 May during Period 4, where they will receive further information about the GAT, examination expectations, and practice materials.

During these sessions, students will also receive an information brochure from the VCAA regarding the GAT.

We encourage all students to approach the GAT with a positive attitude and to give their best effort on the day.

Exams:

As Year 11 students approach their upcoming exams, this is an important time to consolidate learning, build effective study habits, and prepare with confidence. The exam schedule is now available to students via Compass, and all students are encouraged to review their timetable carefully and ensure they are aware of the dates, times, and requirements for each subject. Students will start their exam period on Monday 1st June.

All students should read through the exam protocols carefully and familiarise themselves with the expectations. The Year 11 Team will discuss these protocols with the cohort in the lead up to the exams.

Preparation is key to success during the exam period. Developing a structured study plan can help students manage their time effectively and reduce unnecessary stress. Breaking revision into manageable chunks, setting realistic goals, and prioritising subjects based on need are all useful strategies.

Active study techniques are often the most effective. Rather than simply rereading notes, students should focus on strategies such as summarising key ideas, creating flashcards, completing practice questions, and teaching concepts to others. Regular revision over time is far more beneficial than last-minute cramming.

It is also important for students to look after their wellbeing during this period. Maintaining a balanced routine and taking short breaks during study sessions can also improve concentration and productivity.

We wish all Year 11 students the very best as they prepare for their exams and encourage them to approach this period with a positive and organised mindset.

Year 11 Theatre Studies Performance – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Our Unit 1 Theatre Studies class, together with their dedicated teacher Ms Tebbutt, recently presented four wonderful performances of the classic tale The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Local primary school students thoroughly enjoyed the matinee sessions, and our evening shows were packed with parents, staff and students.

Throughout the rehearsal and performance process, students experienced the true value of teamwork — ensuring that every element of acting and stagecraft worked seamlessly together. We are incredibly proud of their commitment, creativity and the way they supported one another right to the final curtain.

Mother’s Day Breakfast

We were delighted to once again celebrate our PSC mothers and grandmothers at our annual Mother’s Day Breakfast. Our senior students — Matilda Garnett, Bam Brickle, Millie Harris MacDonald, William Surowiecki and Magnolia Hare — performed and spoke beautifully, and there were more than a few happy tears in the room.

Fathers, please keep an eye out for details about our Father’s Day Breakfast in Term 3.