Principal's News

What Makes Our  Students Truly Great?

At Sandringham College, we’re privileged to work with young people every day who inspire us, challenge us, and give us great hope for the future. This week—one where I saw students rally around our Working Bee and our incredibly successful Open Night—I’d like to take a moment to celebrate the many qualities that make our high school students truly exceptional.

Here are just a few of the things we, as a teaching staff, admire about them:

• They’re curious. 🔍 Whether it’s science, literature, social justice or technology, our students ask thoughtful questions and pursue learning with energy.
• They’re adaptable. 🔄 After years of global uncertainty, they’ve shown resilience in the face of change and the ability to pivot with maturity.
• They care. 💛 We see compassion in action—from supporting classmates to getting involved in causes that matter to them.
• They think critically. 🧠 They analyse, debate, and form opinions—not just to pass exams, but to understand the world.
• They’re funny. 😄 Teen humour is clever, quirky and spontaneous. Their laughter brightens our corridors.
• They take risks. 🎭 Whether it’s trying out for the production, tackling a tough maths topic, giving it their all in the House competition, or speaking in assembly, they show courage every day.
• They’re deeply creative. 🎨 From art and music to writing and design, their ideas are bold and original.
• They have a voice. 📣 Our students speak up—about fairness, climate change, identity, and equity—and they’re not afraid to lead.
• They support one another. 🤝 Behind the scenes, they check in on each other, offer help, and form strong peer networks.
• They grow — fast. 🌱 Every term, we see remarkable leaps in confidence, maturity and independence.

They are not supposed to get it right all of the time—and they don't.  School is, however, a safe space to make those mistakes, own the actions, and accept the outcomes.  It is all a part of the learning.

Above all, our students remind us every day of why education matters. Thank you for trusting us to help shape, support and guide them.

Bayside Community Awards - Young Citizen of the Year

Speaking of 'great', we are incredibly proud to congratulate Sofia Edwards, School Vice Captain and Year 12 student, on being named Bayside Council’s Young Citizen of the Year.

Sofia received this prestigious honour in recognition of her exceptional volunteer work and passionate commitment to sustainability. She generously contributes her time to the local Salvation Army, supports citizenship ceremonies, and leads sustainability education workshops for the community.

A dedicated advocate for social justice, Sofia has been a valued member of the Sandringham College community since Year 7. Her leadership, compassion, and drive to make a difference reflect the very best of our school values.

We look forward to seeing the incredible impact Sofia will no doubt continue to make—both locally and globally—in the years ahead.

Bayside Youth Awards

When we talk about community, we’re not only referring to our school community—though that is often a great place to start.  I'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the students involved in the Bayside Youth Awards held at the Sandringham Yacht Club on Wednesday, 7th May.  

The Bayside Youth Awards are an opportunity to recognise the positive contributions of young people in the Bayside community and celebrate young people making Bayside a better place.

Sandringham College was well represented with Will Taylor (Year 10) receiving an award and a host of our amazing nominated students.

Well done to all involved!

An Unforgettable Week at the College

End of Week 2...

I must say with a yawn and a rub of my eyes,

By Saturday night, I stood quite surprised—

Exhausted but beaming from one mighty feat:

A week full of cheer that just couldn’t be beat!

Sunday 27th April – Community Working Bee 

It kicked off on Bluff with a mulch-moving muddle,

A mountainous mess, in a mulch-scented huddle.

Wednesday 30th April - Open Night 

All set for a night when the halls came alive,

With a thousand new faces who’d bustle and thrive!

Saturday 3rd May – Election Day Sausage Sizzle 

Then Saturday came with a sizzle and cheer,

As sausagey scents filled election day air.

They frizzled, they fizzled, they danced on the grill,

Democracy served with delicious goodwill!

More than the money raised or the potential enrolments gained, it was an amazing opportunity for us to connect with our community.  I can't thank my Principal Team, hardworking staff, and our student leaders enough for all of their efforts throughout the first 2 weeks of Term 2.  Special shout-out to Mitch Loimaranta, one of our Year 9 leaders, who was on deck at the sausage sizzle all day!  

A great effort by all—with Election Day raising over $2,000 and Open Night seeing over 1,000 people attend student-led tours.

Happy Mother's Day!

I'd also like to take the opportunity to wish all the mums within our broader community a very happy Mother's Day this Sunday. It's a tough job, and your sons and daughters are so grateful for everything you do.