Principal's Report

Report from Westall 

Dear Westall Secondary College Community, 

2025 Westall SC - School Performance Report

Each year, the Department of Education provides every school with a Panorama School Performance Report, offering a comprehensive overview of performance across key areas such as student achievement, engagement, wellbeing, and school climate.

For secondary schools, this report includes data from a range of sources, including NAPLAN, VCE, attendance, and student perception surveys, allowing us to monitor trends, measure progress over time. It enables school leaders and teachers to identify strengths, highlight areas for growth, and ensure our improvement strategies are aligned with the Framework for Improving Student Outcomes (FISO 2.0).

By engaging with this data and reflecting on our collective progress, we continue to strengthen our focus on improving learning outcomes and wellbeing for all students at our school.

Attached below is our 2025 Panorama – School Performance Report. School Leadership is very proud of our overall performance rating which is once again in high category. As compared against similar schools across the state we a in the top 30% of schools with similar characteristics. These results confirm that we are on the right track as a school having our Westall Way approach to learning and wellbeing validated by the data within this report. 

Our iCare values also continue to shine through and their influence will guide our approach to looking at areas of potential improvement for 2026 which include strengthening; whole school literacy strategies and interventions, improved curriculum documentation, targeted staff professional learning and whole school wellbeing supports and programs. As we look ahead to 2026 in Term 4 our school teams will be identifying key tasks and initiatives that will need to be complete to hit our 2026 Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) goals and key improvement targets.

The Importance of HeadStart 

As we approach the end of the school year, students at Westall Secondary College are preparing to take part in our HeadStart program — an important initiative that helps them begin the new academic year with confidence and purpose.

HeadStart allows students to move into their new classes and subjects ahead of time, providing a smooth transition into the following year. It gives them the chance to meet their new teachers, understand course expectations, and begin developing the knowledge and skills needed for success.

Through participation in HeadStart, students:

• Build a strong foundation for their new studies.

• Develop effective study habits and organisational skills.

• Gain an early understanding of subject expectations and course content.

• Strengthen connections with teachers and classmates.

For our senior students, particularly those entering VCE and VCE Vocational Major and VPC, HeadStart provides valuable preparation for the rigours of senior schooling. Students explore key concepts, establish productive learning routines, and begin planning for assessment tasks before the official start of the school year.

At Westall, we believe preparation is the key to success. The HeadStart program gives every student the opportunity to begin the year with a clear focus, positive mindset, and a strong sense of readiness to achieve their best.

Best Wishes to Our Year 10 and 11 Students for Their Exams

As we near the end of the school year, our Year 10 and Year 11 students are preparing to complete their end-of-year exams. This important period provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate what they have learned and to prepare for the challenges of senior study.

We commend our students for the effort and focus they have shown in the lead-up to exams, and we thank our teachers and families for their ongoing support and encouragement. These partnerships play a vital role in helping students stay organised, motivated, and confident.

To all our Year 10 and 11 students — we wish you the very best. Approach your exams with confidence, do your best, and be proud of the hard work and progress you have made throughout the year.

Improving School Attendance

Regular attendance at school is one of the most significant contributors to a student’s academic achievement and overall wellbeing. At Westall Secondary College, we place great importance on students attending school every day, as consistent attendance enables them to remain connected to their learning, peers, and teachers.

Research consistently shows that students who attend school regularly achieve stronger academic outcomes and develop positive habits that support success beyond the classroom. Every day of learning is valuable — and even occasional absences can impact a student’s confidence, understanding, and long-term progress.

While we recognise that absences are sometimes unavoidable due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, we ask that parents and carers continue to prioritise attendance wherever possible. Should challenges arise, we encourage open communication with the school so that appropriate support can be provided to assist your child’s regular attendance.

By working in partnership, we can ensure that every student at Westall Secondary College has the best opportunity to succeed. 

Remembrance Day at Clayton RSL

On Tuesday, a group of Westall Secondary College students proudly represented our school at the Remembrance Day service held at the Clayton RSL. Mylla Tran, Danny Nguyen, Amy Tran Nguyen, and Shruthi Chintalapati participated with great respect, laying a wreath and completing a reading on behalf of the school, joining the local community in honouring those who have served and sacrificed for our country.

We commend these students for the maturity and dignity they displayed during this important occasion. Their participation reflects our iCare the values extending these out into the community.

It is with great pride that we announce and congratulate our 2026 School Captains. These students have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, a strong sense of responsibility, and a genuine commitment to representing their peers and contributing positively to the life of our school.

 2026 School Captains

The School Captain selection process is a significant one, requiring candidates to reflect on their values, articulate their vision for student leadership, and demonstrate their capacity to inspire and serve others. Each applicant displayed maturity, integrity, and a deep understanding of what it means it lead in alignment with our iCare school values.

We extend our sincere thanks to all students who participated in the selection process. Your willingness to put yourselves forward, share your ideas, and engage thoughtfully in the experience reflects the strength and pride of our student body. Every candidate contributed meaningfully to this process, and you should be proud of your efforts.

Our 2026 School Captains will play a key role in shaping student voice, promoting inclusion, and representing the values and aspirations of our community. We are confident they will lead with enthusiasm, empathy, and excellence throughout 2026.

Congratulations once again to our 2026 School Captains — we look forward to the energy, dedication, and leadership you will bring to your roles.

A big thank you to Ms Kristina Vasilakis for leading the process of selecting our captains for 2026.

Mr Jason Tickner

Acting/ Principal

Westall Secondary College