Principal's News
Dear Parents
As I reflect upon the past term, which is shortly coming to a close, I am filled with immense pride for what we as a School community have achieved. Inspiration drives me in my role and I find it daily in our student’s achievements, in the dedicated staff who shape and motivate them and in our community which tirelessly supports our Vision.
Inspiration thrives not only in our School but in everyday moments when we review student success, conversations inevitably gravitate toward effort. The student who tries harder ultimately performs better. In our alignment with our 2025 School Theme to ‘Aim High, Achieve More’ the message to students is clear – do the work, do the practice and reap the reward.
I extend my gratitude to all staff and students and indeed the community of Oakleigh Grammar for supporting a key Hellenic Event this term – Greek Independence Day. The Parade which was held adjacent to the Shrine of Remembrance showcased our students’ Marching Band and Flag Bearers with all the pomp and ceremony that it deserved. It was a delight to witness both Greek and non-Greek background students proudly marching to the beat of our drummers on a lovely sunny autumn day.
Our School continues to attract strong demand from prospective students and parents, and I extend my gratitude to all parents who regularly advocate for our School. Our Open Day attendances continue to be high and feedback from those attendees is overall extremely positive which is testament to the wonderful culture that we are all very proud of at our School.
Congratulations is extended to our Director of the Early Learning Centre, Katarina Hills, and her staff following the recent news of retaining the highest rating for Early Learning Centres – ‘Exceeding’ status. It is well known in our community and in Early Childhood networks that Oakleigh Grammar provides a stimulating, nurturing and outstanding educational environment for our youngest learners. As a not-for-profit Early Learning Centre all funds are redirected to student learning programs and facility development which benefits all of our children.
At our Whole School Blessing that took place at the beginning of term presided over by His Grace, students and teachers were reminded of the importance of their calling, and to fulfil this calling with care and diligence. His Grace encouraged students to apply themselves to their studies and in so doing not seeking what the world can do for them but what they can do to make the world a better place.
On behalf of His Eminence, His Grace presented a gift of brand-new bikes to four students at the School.
Forthcoming Federal Election
As you are aware, the Federal Election has been called for 3 May. It has been made clear by both major political parties that Education is not their priority for funding; indeed, understandably, ‘cost-of-living’ is the priority in this election.
I wish to emphasise that school choice does count and that every child regardless of whether they attend a Government or an Independent School deserves access to high quality education. It is important that both major political parties hear the message that fairness in funding and support for Independent School students is essential to maintaining a diverse and inclusive education system that serves all Australians. Currently, Government Schools attract higher levels of funding than Independent Schools.
By supporting the Independent School sector through appropriate funding, it allows for true choice of schooling due to ensuring that Independent Schools remain affordable.
Families should not be vilified for making choices that align with their faith, values and aspirations. As parents who have made the choice to send your children to an Independent School – Oakleigh Grammar, we would be grateful for you to spread the word about how important it is to be able to choose the right school for your children.
Staff News
I wish to thank Mrs Kate Hughes, for her contribution to the Junior School, who will be leaving us at the end of this term. Mrs Rebecca Foden will be replacing Mrs Hughes and is looking forward to teaching her Year 5 class for the remainder of the year.
I am delighted to announce that Ms Elizabeth Chackola will be commencing in the role of Business Manager on 15 May. Ms Chackola is currently the Business Manager overseeing five schools under the auspices of the Catholic Archdiocese and has a strong financial background with high level interpersonal skills.
Junior School Teachers Ms Stella Kyritsis and Ms Vicki Kimonides will be undertaking some well deserved long service leave during term two and will be replaced by two new teachers who are very much looking forward to joining the Oakleigh Grammar family.
I take this opportunity to wish all families a safe and Blessed Easter with both Western and Orthodox Easter being celebrated on Sunday 20 April, and look forward to welcoming all students, families and staff back to School on Tuesday 22 April when we will proudly commemorate ANZAC Day at a special Assembly.
Mark Robertson
Principal