Assistant Principals

We know that when something concerns your child, your first instinct as a parent is to act quickly. At times, however, the most supportive step is to pause and allow staff the space to address the matter thoughtfully. We kindly ask families to take a moment to reflect before responding, avoid arriving at school without notice, and refrain from calling the main office immediately. This helps ensure our staff can focus on students and give each situation the attention it deserves.

In choosing Oakleigh Grammar, you have placed your trust in us to care for and guide your child. That trust is something we value deeply, and it underpins the partnership between home and school. By allowing staff the necessary time to investigate and respond with care, we can work together towards outcomes that are respectful, clear, and in the best interests of both your child and the wider community.

We thank you for your cooperation and continued support.

Shelley Parkes

Assistant Principal - Head of Junior School

Strengthening Minds, Shaping Futures

As Term 3 concludes, we reflect on a season that has tested and strengthened both students and teachers alike. The academic life of Oakleigh Grammar is never static; it evolves with each term as students refine their skills, deepen their knowledge, and discover new ways to engage with learning.

This term has been marked by an increasing emphasis on critical thinking and independent learning, encouraging students to analyse ideas, question assumptions, and take greater ownership of their academic journey. These qualities are vital for cultivating learners who can adapt to challenges and extend themselves beyond familiar boundaries.

Shakespeare’s words resonate here: “We know what we are, but know not what we may be.” (Hamlet, Act 4, Scene 5). They remind us that education is a bridge between present reality and future potential, and that the classroom is as much a place of possibility as it is of knowledge.

As we move into Term 4, senior students will be preparing for the rigours of examinations, while younger year levels continue to lay the foundations for their future studies. Across all levels, the challenge remains the same: to develop both mastery of content and the habits of mind that enable lifelong learning.

At Oakleigh Grammar, we are committed to providing an environment where intellectual curiosity and academic excellence are nurtured together. By uniting aspiration with effort, we ensure that students not only achieve but also grow in wisdom and character.

Aim High. Achieve More.

Lance Ryan

Assistant Principal ‑ Academic