Principal's Report 

Beginning Of Term 4:

Principal's Report  

Year 12’s Final Day and Year 12 Valedictory

As the Class of 2025 begins to prepare for the challenges and opportunities that will come their way in the next phase of their life we wish to acknowledge their commitment to the students and community at South Oakleigh College through their involvement in leadership across many areas of school life, from debating, performing well above expectations, coaching and participating in sports, contributing to the school production, and advocating for student voice as student leaders. They have been exceptional role models of the student body, and their legacy is greatly appreciated. 

Last week we farewelled our Year 12’s with a final assembly, where the students dressed in costume and were presented to the school community. For the class of 2025 this assembly is both a tradition which marks not only the end of one chapter in their education but also the beginning of a new and promising journey, as they embark into the world of adulthood. The conclusion of the assembly saw a ‘guard of honour’ comprising of all Year 7 students and staff to farewell our Year12’s. As our Class of 2025 close this chapter, they open a new one and with that they carry with them knowledge, a strong sense of community, and the power to make a real difference in this world.

Whether they continue with their education at university or TAFE, start a career, or explore different pathways, they have what it takes to shape a better future. Our graduates of 2025 are the change-makers and leaders we need to make this a better world. The Valedictory Dinner was also a highlight in this year’s calendar as we presented our students with their graduation certificates, memories over the last 6 years and also a tribute to the students from their parents, congratulating them on reaching this significant milestone as they embodied all our school values but in particular of Resilience as they met each challenge with perseverance and determination. Throughout their time at South Oakleigh College, our students have experienced tremendous intellectual and emotional growth, nurtured by the support of our dedicated staff and the unwavering commitment of their families. Our graduates leave us not only with academic knowledge but also with resilience, life skills, and a clear sense of purpose. We are confident that the foundation laid here at South Oakleigh College has prepared them to contribute meaningfully to the world and to pursue their goals with determination and kindness. 

As they embark on their next adventures, they carry with them our best wishes and support, fully equipped to embrace the exciting opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. The journey of our students would not have been possible without the support of their parents, caregivers, school staff, and community organisations. The dedication of their parents and caregivers has provided the foundation of love, guidance, and encouragement that has enabled these students to chase their dreams with confidence.

Our staff’s tireless efforts and commitment to each student’s success have fostered an enriching and supportive learning environment. Additionally, partnerships with community organisations have enhanced the students’ experiences, offering diverse opportunities and resources. Together, this network of support has played a crucial role in preparing our students for the future, and for this, we are immensely grateful. The Class of 2025 has embodied the College values of High Expectations, Respect, Responsibility, Resilience and Teamwork throughout their time at South Oakleigh College. Their journey this year and beyond has demonstrated these values in action, and we are proud of their accomplishments. 

As they move forward, we remind them that success is not defined solely by the destination but by the journey itself. The road ahead will be filled with uncertainties, but it is through these unpredictable moments that they will truly discover themselves. 

School Review: Update for Our Community

 Shortly, we will commence our school review where we look at how our school has performed over our last Strategic Plan 2020 – 2025. The purpose of a school review is to improve student outcomes through a process of self-assessment, critical reflection, and external feedback, which, thorough collaborative evaluation of our school’s performance and direction, leads to the development of a strategic plan for the school. 

Reviews are a collaborative effort that identifies strengths to celebrate and challenges to address, ultimately guiding a school's next steps for improvement. During the review, a panel consisting of an external Reviewer, our Senior Education Instructional Leader, two challenge partners (Principals) and our College President will conduct many classroom observations across a wide range of year levels and subjects. These visits will provide a valuable window into our day-to-day teaching and learning practices. 

In addition to classroom visits, the review also includes focus groups with students, staff, and parents/carers. These conversations provide rich insights into the experiences, strengths, and aspirations of our community. If parents are interested in participating in the focus groups during one of the field daysof our review (19 - 20 November, during the morning on a date to be confirmed) please register your interest with Kelly Garrett at Kelly.garrett@education.vic.gov.au and details will follow.

World Teachers’ Day 31 October

Internationally,  World Teachers’ Day is recognised in over 100 countries around the world is an annual event held on the first Friday in October.  However, in Australia, this typically falls during the school term break, so we celebrate our teachers on the last Friday in October each year. 

On Friday 31 October 2025, we will celebrate World Teachers’ Day, acknowledging the tremendous efforts of teachers in shaping our society, especially in an increasingly complex, multicultural, and technologically driven world. 

This day provides us with the opportunity to highlight the important role teachers play in our communities. It is a moment for students, parents, and community members to show their appreciation for the dedication and contributions teachers make, both in their lives and to the broader community. While this day is about our teachers it is also an opportunity for me to acknowledge our Education Support staff for their invaluable contributions, as they support ourteachers in their work at our wonderful school.

As a school, we continue to strive for quality teaching in every classroom and support our highly skilled teachers who provide the nurturing and encouragement needed for our students to succeed now and in the future. 

On behalf of our school community, I extend a heartfelt thank you to all our teaching staff for their hard work and dedication.

Semester 2 Year 7-11 Examinations

As the term progresses, our Year 7-11 students will soon be completing Semester 2 examinations before transitioning to the new academic year through Step-Up commencing Monday 24th November – Friday 5th December. 

These exams offer a valuable opportunity for students to review their understanding and reflect on the learning they have undertaken this semester. We encourage all students to set high expectations for themselves and apply teamwork by collaborating with peers to form productive study habits and study groups, supporting their learning as well those of their peers. 

For additional support we encourage students to attend Homework Club every Monday and Wednesday or seek additional support and resources from their teachers.

We wish all students the best in their studies and remind them to balance their preparation with adequate rest and a healthy eating plan. In addition, College staff, Student Services, and the Wellbeing Team are also available to assist students in preparation for these exams.

Congratulations to Our State Athletics Champions

On Monday, 20 October, several of our talented students represented South Oakleigh College at the State Schools Athletics Championships. Their achievements — including medals and personal best performances — are a testament to their dedication, preparation, and sportsmanship.

We extend our gratitude to our parents and to Sports Leaders Ashley Aylen and Noor Jenkins for their support and encouragement of our student athletes.

Will Amiatu – 1st Place Shot Put and Discus | 2nd Place Javelin and High Jump 

Sophie Volpert – 1st Place Discus | 3rd Place Shot Put

NASA 2025 – Mars Program

During the recent term break, seven students from South Oakleigh College joined peers from Brentwood SC, Highvale SC, and Wheelers Hill SC (a total of 41 students) on a Global Learning Experience to NASA — a highlight of our STEM program.

The tour began in San Francisco, where students explored the USS Hornet, the Exploratorium, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. They also experienced the excitement of American culture during the Halloween season.

The group then travelled to Orlando, Florida, to visit the Kennedy Space Center, delving into the science and technology of space exploration. The tour concluded in Los Angeles with a guided physics experience at Knott’s Berry Farm, followed by unforgettable visits to Disneyland and Universal Studios.

This immersive international experience developed key skills outlined in the Australian Curriculum General Capabilities — including critical and creative thinking, ethical understanding, intercultural awareness, and teamwork. Beyond the academic learning, students forged friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

Final Message

As we approach the end of another successful year at South Oakleigh College, I thank our entire school community — students, staff, and families — for their continued support, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Together, we make our College a vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring place to learn and grow.

Helen Koziaris 

College Principal