Principal's Report

Evan MILLER

Principal

End of Term 3

As we come to the end of Term 3, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been another wonderful term of learning, growth, and community spirit at Highvale Secondary College. Our students and staff continue to impress with their enthusiasm, resilience, and commitment to both their learning and to each other.

Celebrating Our School and School Captains

We were delighted to learn that Highvale Secondary College has been ranked among the Top 10 Public Schools in Victoria, coming in at number 10, is an outstanding achievement. This recognition has provided our school captains—Jiyaa K.C., Riddhi J., Ryan E., and Sachi W. - with the exciting opportunity to be featured in the Herald Sun alongside other captains from Victoria’s top-ranking schools.

The article highlights the voices and leadership of our student leaders and acknowledges the vital role they play in shaping our school culture. This achievement is a reflection of the hard work of our students, staff, and wider community, and it is something we can all be very proud of.

R U OK? Day

On Thursday 11 September, our school community came together to acknowledge the importance of wellbeing and connection through R U OK? Day. The day is a powerful reminder of the value of checking in on one another and the impact a simple conversation can have. It was heartening to see both staff and students wearing yellow to symbolise optimism, joy, and friendship.

This year, we launched several initiatives to promote wellbeing, including the 'Check-In Corner' in the staffroom, designed as a space for staff to pause, connect, and reflect. Students were also encouraged to contribute to the Gratitude Wall in H Block, where they shared positive messages and affirmations. Staff enjoyed a light gratitude lunch and a small treat, reminding us that even the simplest gestures can brighten someone’s day.

I would like to particularly acknowledge the generosity of Molly Stranger, Natalie Valentine, Richard Shelly, Betty Singh, Leigh Hunter, and Meagan Merlino, who supported their colleagues by ensuring everyone had the chance to take much needed microbreaks throughout the day. Their commitment to fostering a culture of care is deeply appreciated.

Literacy and Numeracy Week

This term, we also celebrated Literacy and Numeracy Week with the theme “Book an Adventure!” Students delighted us with their creativity and imagination by dressing as their favourite book characters or embracing the adventure theme in unique and exciting ways.

The week also supported two important causes: the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and Reading Out of Poverty. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we collected many pre-loved books, which became part of our hugely successful Book Sale. A special thank you goes to Carolina Manariti, Nishi Wallis, and others who donated so generously.

Throughout the week, Mrs Maria Smith led a host of engaging activities including Sudoku, Spelling Bees, Kahoot quizzes, poetry writing, and the 50-Word Short Story Challenge. The celebrations concluded with a lively raffle and morning tea, where characters like Where’s Wally, The Invisible Man, and Harry Potter made surprise appearances. We were thrilled to raise $299 to support Indigenous children’s literacy, a testament to the generosity of our school community.

Drama Club Performance – The Outsiders

Another highlight of Term 3 was our Drama Club’s production of The Outsiders, performed on Thursday 11th and Friday 12th of September. The production was a triumph and a true showcase of student talent, teamwork, and creativity.

Special thanks go to Aysha McCoy and Molly Pethick for their dedication in guiding the students and bringing the performance to life. I would also like to recognise Year 12 student, Finlay Harris, whose vision and leadership as Director were instrumental in the success of both the performance and the Drama Club itself. Students across all year levels had the chance to shine—whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in technical support roles. This was a proud moment for our school and a celebration of the arts at Highvale.

As we close Term 3, I want to thank every member of our school community—students, staff, and families—for your contributions to what has been a vibrant and successful term. From celebrating wellbeing and literacy, to enjoying student creativity on stage, and recognising the leadership of our captains, we have much to be proud of.

I wish everyone a safe, restful, and happy break. I look forward to welcoming you all back in Term 4 for the final stage of what has already been a remarkable year.