Principal's News
Dear Parents
As we approach the final weeks of Term 4, it is a time of both reflection and celebration at Oakleigh Grammar. Last week we proudly farewelled the Class of 2025, a remarkable group of young people who have shown resilience and leadership. Their journey through Oakleigh Grammar has been marked by determination, kindness, and a spirit of genuine care for our community. On behalf of all staff and the wider student cohort, I wish each of them every success as they undertake their final examinations and prepare for the exciting new chapter that awaits beyond our gates.
We also take great pride in acknowledging the outstanding achievements of our students in recent Greek Language and Cultural Competitions. Their dedication to preserving and promoting Hellenic heritage is inspiring, and their success is a testament to the strength of our multi-lingual and multi-cultural education. Congratulations to all participants and their teachers for representing Oakleigh Grammar with such distinction.
Congratulations are also extended to our Soccer Teams who participated in the recent EISM Soccer Gala Day Competition. Of the twenty-one Schools who participated, only Oakleigh Grammar had all teams progress through to the Semi-Finals, which is an outstanding achievement for our School. Well done to the Years 7 to 9 and Years 10 and 11 Girls teams, and the Years 7 to 9 and Years 10 and 11 Boys teams, with a special mention to the Years 7 to 9 Boys team who won their Grand Final.
We look forward with great anticipation to our annual Glendi celebration this coming weekend which will be held in Warrawee Park in Oakleigh across Saturday and Sunday, with a special concert and fireworks being held on Saturday night. This vibrant community event promises to be a highlight on our Community calendar - filled with fabulous entertainment, delicious food stalls, and exciting activities for all ages. We are especially proud that many of our own talented students will be performing throughout Sunday on the main stage, showcasing the creativity and school spirit that make Oakleigh Grammar such a special place. I encourage all families to come along, celebrate our shared culture, and enjoy a fun-filled weekend together.
I take this opportunity to remind all families that the School is closed Monday and on Tuesday for the Melbourne Cup Public Holiday.
Round Square International Conference
I recently had the pleasure of accompanying staff and students to the Round Square International Conference in Dubai. The conference, themed Beyond the Dunes, brought together students and educators from Round Square schools worldwide.
Our staff and student delegates returned with a wealth of experiences that extended learning beyond the classroom, strengthened leadership skills, fostered global friendships, and inspired innovative thinking on local and international challenges. They took part in environmental workshops, adventure challenges, discussions, and community service initiatives, applying the Round Square IDEALS of Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership, and Service in practical and meaningful ways.
It was an honour to chaperone our students, who were exemplars and fine young ambassadors for our School. Beyond the Dunes was an extraordinary experience for our students and staff, a melting pot of multicultural and highly intelligent young minds.
As part of this event, Oakleigh Grammar will receive the coveted Round Square Flag, officially recognising us as a full member school. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing students with opportunities to grow as responsible, ethical global citizens. I look forward to accompanying our students and staff and bringing back valuable experiences to our school community.
In December a group of our Year 9 Students will travel to New Zealand to represent the School and there is an opportunity for some of our 2026 Year 9 cohort to take part in the Round Square Conference in Ballarat in April and for our some of our 2026 Year 11 cohort to join the International Conference which will be held in Sydney. These Conferences, to be held in Australia will be attended by delegates from across the world, providing them with an opportunity to be involved in life changing engaging activities, discussions and collaborative projects.
I urge you to consider these opportunities for your children.
Under 16 Social Media Ban
You will no doubt have seen a lot of press coverage relating to social media age restrictions which are coming into force by the federal government from 10 December. I urge you to become familiar with the e-safety Commission’s tips for parents which can be accessed via this link
https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/social-media-age-restrictions
Staff News
I thank the following recently departed staff for their service to Oakleigh Grammar – Ms Nghi Tran, ELC Teacher; Ms Caroline Esparon, ELC Co Educator and Mr Chris Kilpady, IT Manager – and wish them well for the future
End of Term Dates
Please note the final school dates as follows:
Arrowsmith – Friday 28 November
Senior School – Thursday 4 December
Middle School – Friday 5 December
Junior School – Wednesday 10 December
Early Learning Centre – Wednesday 10 December
Mark Robertson
Principal