From the Principal

It is a genuine privilege to write my first newsletter article as the substantive Principal of Parkdale Secondary College.

Having worked at Parkdale and been part of this wonderful community for more than 20 years, I feel incredibly honoured to have the opportunity to lead our school into its next chapter. I would like to sincerely thank our students, families, staff, alumni and wider community for the many kind messages and words of encouragement I have received over the past few weeks. The warmth and support have been truly humbling and are a wonderful reflection of the caring community that makes Parkdale such a special place.

As we approach the midpoint of the year, the school continues to be full of energy and opportunity. Classrooms remain focused on high-quality teaching and learning, while students continue to embrace the many experiences available beyond the classroom.

One of the highlights this month was National Careers Week, where students had the opportunity to explore future pathways through guest speakers, workshops and our Careers Expo. It was fantastic to see students engaging with representatives from universities, TAFEs, industry and community organisations as they began thinking about their futures.

Our Languages Week celebrations once again brought French and Japanese culture to life through food, performances and cultural activities, while National Reconciliation Week and our Year 9 Koori Day provided important opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of First Peoples histories and cultures.

Our commitment to student wellbeing also continues to be a priority. Through our ongoing partnership with Headspace and presentations from the Police Youth Resource Officers, students have engaged in important conversations around respectful relationships, inclusion and belonging. These experiences help reinforce the positive culture we continue to build across our school community.

There has also been plenty to celebrate in the Arts and Sciences. Congratulations to the cast and crew of our Year 9 production, Once Upon a Crime, which was enjoyed by local primary schools and our wider community and our Instrumental Music students for their wonderful Mid-year Music Concert. Our Year 7 History students impressed visitors with their Charms of Egypt exhibition, while our Science students participated in the Monash University BioEYES program, working alongside scientists to explore genetics through hands-on learning and the STEP Showcase night highlighted the amazing work our students have engaged in across the year thus far.

Sport continues to be another source of pride for our school, with students achieving excellent results across district, regional and state competitions, including success in AFL, netball, swimming, diving and cross country. Congratulations to all students who represented the college so proudly.

On a broader community level, our annual Parky Big Give was an immense success.  Our Student Voice and Action Committee and Student Leaders led an energy-filled day, activating our student population to raise a total of over $4,000.  An incredible feat.  Congratulations to all involved.

Behind the scenes, our partnerships with local primary schools continue to strengthen through collaborative learning, data sharing and transition work. These relationships are an important part of ensuring students experience a smooth transition into secondary school while continuing to build Parkdale's strong reputation within our local community.

At staff level, on our Curriculum Day, we were fortunate to have Aunty Katrina Amon present to us her ‘Cultural Awakenings’ professional learning.  This professional learning built staff’s understanding of ways on which we can support building a strong community through openness and curiosity, rather than assumptions and stereotypes. 

Looking forward to term 3, it is going to a big one!  Our School Strategic Review will be held in week 2.  This is an opportunity for us to work with an independent reviewer, challenge partners, our School Council President, and Department of Education representatives to assess our progress against our previous plan and develop new targets and strategies to pursue for our next plan. I’m looking forward to this important process as we set the next direction for our school. 

We also have some huge community events including:

• The Musical Production – Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

• Student course selections for 2027

• Semester 1 award recipient assemblies and parent/carer breakfasts

• Our Japanese sister school, Owa High School, visiting

• Athletics Carnival

• Science fair

• Parent Teacher Interviews

   

Thank you, as always, to our staff for their commitment and professionalism, to our students for the enthusiasm they bring each day, and to our families for your ongoing support and partnership. Together we continue to create a school where students are challenged, connected and supported to achieve their very best.

I hope staff and students enjoy a well-earned break and look forward to welcoming everyone back Monday 13 July.