Principal's Report 

Hello Everyone, 

We are now reaching that point in the school year where our focus is clearly on ensuring our Year 12 students have the support and guidance as they navigate end of year exams and completing competencies for their VCAL certificate. As a school we understand that how students approach the following weeks is critical to achieving their future pathways. 

I would like to thank the Senior School, led by Yeneo Pousoulis in Michelle Galli’s absence, Louise Ford who has stepped into Year 12 Coordination while Anna Anetoudis is on Long Service Leave, Holly Jepson and Nick Molan who are working above and beyond to support your children in what has been an incredibly challenging year for all of us. I would also like to acknowledge our Learning Specialist, Felicity Graham-Prowse and Leading Teacher, Ben Shepherd who have kick started our Motivational Mondays. These afternoon sessions on Monday are open to all Year 11 and 12 students to collaborate with teachers on revision and learning tasks. It is an opportunity for one-on-one support. Furthermore, students are welcome to study in the VCE Centre any afternoon while staff are present.

Arrangements are well underway for the GAT next week. New examination furniture will be in play in the Gym to ensure that students have optimal conditions for this important assessment. The GAT provides a safety net for students who may, for a number of reasons, be unable to sit an end of year exam. It provides data for a derived score and also provides students with valuable insight into their Literacy and Numeracy Skills. We urge all students sitting the GAT to do their best and don’t forget the dictionary and scientific calculator! 

I would like to acknowledge on behalf of the school community the impact COVID-19, staff absences and staff changes have had on student learning. Much has been outside of our direct control, but our goal has been to stabilise staffing in VCE as much as we can. None of this is unique to Wheelers Hill Secondary College. All schools in both the government and independent sectors are facing similar challenges. We are in the process of bringing on board more ongoing staff, particularly in the English and Mathematics Learning Areas. We are also incredibly proud of our graduates who are doing an amazing job developing their teaching practice at such an accelerated rate. 

I ask for your continued support. We believe in our school and our commitment to your children is unwavering. We hope that you believe in us, and we look forward to providing your children with the knowledge, skills and wellbeing so they can embrace the future with confidence, resilience and high expectations. 

Fern Brisbane 

Acting Principal