Melanie Denney

Assistant Principal

Dear JMSS Parents, Carers and Students,

It has been a wonderfully full start to the term, with students engaging in a wide range of opportunities both in and beyond the classroom. I have enjoyed seeing so many of our students stepping outside their comfort zones, giving back to the community, and embracing new experiences. From braving icy water and losing their locks in the World’s Greatest Shave to performing in the NEVR: Legends and Lore concert at Hamer Hall, students have made the most of every opportunity. 

I also had the good fortune of accompanying students to hear from an inspiring panel including Katherine Bennell-Pegg (Australia’s first astronaut to wear the national flag and 2026 Australian of the Year), Dr Megan Clark AC (Chancellor of Monash University), and Keira Moran (National Indigenous Space Academy alumna). The recent excitement of Exhibition Night and Battle of the Bands nicely rounded out what has truly been a jam-packed and memorable few weeks at JMSS.

Upcoming Assessment Period

We are currently in a busy assessment period, with our mid-year exams and SACs fast approaching.

The JMSS Mid-Year Exam/SAC period will run from Tuesday 9 May, through to Monday 15 May. All year levels have now attended briefings outlining expectations and what to expect during this time. Students have received their assessment timetables and should be well underway with organising their study and revision schedules. For many of our Year 10 students, this will be their first experience of formal semester exams. This serves as a great opportunity to trial different revision techniques and approaches. For all students, it is an ideal point in the year to reflect on their progress so far and consider any adjustments that might support their learning moving forward.

During the period from 9 -15 May, students are only required on campus for their scheduled assessments. Please note that students will not have access to lockers or study spaces, so it is important they take home anything they may need in advance. The canteen will also be closed during this time. Students are expected to sign in on the ground floor 45 minutes prior to the start of each exam.

General Achievement Test

The GAT will take place on Tuesday, 16 May, and all students studying Unit 3 and 4 subjects are required to complete it. Most JMSS students will sit the GAT at Monash University (Campus Centre Dining and Banquet Halls), with individual location details to be provided via email closer to the date.

Students should plan to arrive by 8:00am on the day.

Biomedicine Immersion Day

Also on 16 May, our Year 10 students will participate in the Monash Biomedicine Immersion Day. This is a fantastic opportunity, made possible through our strong partnership with Monash, where students will work with staff in teaching laboratories and rotate through a series of hands-on workshops. It’s always a highlight on the calendar and something students really look forward to.

JMSS ANZAC Commemorative Ceremony

Our JMSS ANZAC Commemorative Ceremony was held on Friday 1 May and was led thoughtfully by our four School Captains. The ceremony was observed with great respect by all in attendance. Particularly moving moments included the laying of a memorial wreath, a live performance of The Last Post and Rouse by Year 12 student Vincent Molenaar, and a stirring rendition of the New Zealand national anthem by Year 11 student Rijul Shirke.

Melanie Denney

Assistant Principal