College Principal Message 

From the Principal

Welcome to Term Four, the final chapter of another busy and rewarding academic year. I hope the recent break provided everyone with an opportunity to rest, recharge and reconnect. It has been wonderful to see our students and staff return with renewed energy and enthusiasm, quickly settling back into the routines of teaching and learning that underpin our College.

Term Four is traditionally one of the busiest periods on our College calendar, bringing together a rich range of curriculum, sporting and extra-curricular activities. One of the most significant milestones this term occurred on 20 October, when we farewelled our Year 12 students. Their final day was marked by warmth, pride and celebration, including heartfelt visits to their respective Junior Campuses. It was a way to acknowledge their journey, the friendships they have formed and the many memories they have created during their time at Copperfield College.

For the Class of 2026, this milestone represents both an ending and an exciting new beginning. While formal classes have concluded, many students are now undertaking SWOT VAC in preparation for their final VCE examinations. Others are preparing to transition into full-time or part-time employment, further education or other pathways as they take their next steps beyond school. This can be an exciting yet challenging time, bringing a mixture of anticipation, opportunity and, understandably, some stress for students and their families.

On behalf of the entire Copperfield College community, I wish all our Year 12 students every success in their upcoming examinations and future endeavours. May their hard work, commitment and perseverance throughout their secondary schooling be rewarded. To those entering the workforce or pursuing other pathways, we wish you every success as they embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead. We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and look forward to hearing about their future achievements.

To our Year 7–11 students, I encourage them to make the most of the opportunities that Term Four presents. Remain focused, maintain high expectations of yourselves, support one another and continue to approach your learning with curiosity and determination. Every day provides an opportunity to grow, achieve and contribute positively to our College community.

As we approach the conclusion of the 2026 academic year, let us continue to demonstrate our College values of Respect, Responsibility, Relationships and Excellence in everything we do.

I wish all students, staff and families a positive, productive and successful final term. Let’s finish the year strongly and make Term Four a memorable and meaningful one for everyone.

A Bit More About Our College…

At Copperfield College, we are committed to empowering every student to discover their strengths, develop their talents and approach challenges with confidence and resilience. Our commitment to academic excellence extends beyond the classroom, with a strong focus on developing the essential skills of collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creativity that prepare students for success in an ever-changing world.

We provide a diverse range of opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop their talents and discover new passions. Whether through sport, music, public speaking, drama, social justice initiatives or our many student-led clubs, students are encouraged to participate, challenge themselves and make meaningful contributions to College life. These experiences are supported by inclusive, engaging and stimulating learning environments where students build positive relationships, develop a sense of belonging and learn to appreciate the contributions of others.

As a large, multi-campus college, Copperfield offers a vibrant and diverse environment in which students can learn, participate, lead and flourish. Our diversity is one of our greatest strengths. We celebrate the different cultures, experiences and perspectives within our community, recognising that we are stronger when we learn from, respect and support one another.

Our dedicated and passionate staff are at the heart of our College. Through their expertise, commitment and focus on continuous improvement, they create supportive and challenging learning environments where every student is valued, encouraged and inspired to achieve their personal best. Our strong experience in co-educational learning further supports our commitment to providing equitable opportunities and positive outcomes for all students.

Our modern, upgraded facilities provide students with access to innovative technologies and purpose-built learning spaces, including specialist facilities for sport, performing arts, science, STEM and visual arts. These facilities reflect our ongoing commitment to providing contemporary learning environments and the resources students need to explore their interests, develop their capabilities and achieve their potential.

Guided by our motto, “One College, Three Sites, One Family”, we work collaboratively across our three campuses to provide a consistent, connected and enriching educational experience. Above all, we are united by a shared commitment to ensuring the best possible outcomes for every student within a safe, inclusive, supportive and welcoming learning community. I look forward to many school visit by interested parents and friends to find out a bit more about our College.

Copperfield College Students Shine at the Brimbank Young Researchers Program

On Thursday 29 October, Kings Park and Sydenham campus students demonstrated their curiosity, creativity and commitment to learning through their successful participation in the Brimbank Young Researchers Program.

The program provides students with a valuable opportunity to explore topics of personal interest, develop their research and critical-thinking skills, and present their findings to an audience. Through their participation, our students showcased their ability to investigate questions, analyse information, develop informed conclusions and communicate their ideas with confidence.

Presenting research requires dedication, perseverance and a willingness to challenge existing ideas. Our students rose to this challenge, demonstrating the importance of independent inquiry, collaboration and lifelong learning.

At Copperfield College, we are proud to encourage students to think critically, pursue their interests and engage with opportunities that extend their learning beyond the classroom. Participation in initiatives such as the Brimbank Young Researchers Program helps students develop valuable skills that will support them in their future studies and careers.

Congratulations to all participating students for their efforts and achievements. I also acknowledge the staff who supported and encouraged our young researchers throughout the process.

We are proud of our students for embracing this opportunity to learn, share their ideas and represent Copperfield College so positively.

International Teachers’ Day

This year, World Teachers’ Day was celebrated on Friday, 30 October, providing an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contribution teachers make to our students, our College and the wider community.

At Copperfield College, we honour our incredible teachers who shape minds, ignite curiosity and inspire future generations. Teaching extends far beyond delivering curriculum and sharing knowledge. Our teachers are mentors, role models and champions of possibility, helping students discover their strengths, build confidence and realise their potential.

To every teacher who has stayed back to support a struggling student, sparked a lifelong love of learning, encouraged someone to overcome a challenge or simply believed in a student when they needed it most, thank you. Their influence extends well beyond the classroom. Every day, they help nurture resilience, creativity, compassion and a belief in what is possible.

To acknowledge and celebrate the dedication and commitment of our teaching staff, Copperfield College hosted a morning tea at each of our three campuses on Friday, 30 October.

On behalf of the entire College community, I extend my sincere appreciation and gratitude to our wonderful teachers. Their passion, professionalism and unwavering commitment to our students make a lasting difference. We are proud of the work they do and the positive impact they have on the lives of young people every day.

Sister School Visit to Japan

This year, it was Copperfield College’s turn to visit our Japanese sister school, Fuji Junior High School. Our delegation departed on Saturday 10 October and returned home on Tuesday 20 October, bringing back wonderful memories and valuable experiences from another successful international exchange.

Congratulations to our 20 LOTE Japanese learners and four staff members, led by Principal Class Officer Ms Soula Dedes, on their participation in this enriching overseas visit. The delegation had the opportunity to engage with our sister school community, experience Japanese culture firsthand and further strengthen the longstanding relationship between our two schools.

Copperfield College is extremely proud of our sister school partnership with Fuji Junior High School, which is one of the longest standing sister school relationships in the state of Victoria. This enduring partnership is built on mutual respect, cultural understanding and a shared commitment to providing meaningful learning opportunities for our students. Through our reciprocal visits, with Fuji Junior High School visiting Copperfield College every second year and our College travelling to Japan in alternate years, we continue to nurture and strengthen these important international connections.

The exchange also complements our strong Japanese language program, providing our students with an invaluable opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, practise their language skills in authentic settings and develop a deeper appreciation of the traditions, values and everyday life of another country.

The benefits of a sister school relationship extend well beyond the classroom. These experiences broaden students’ perspectives, foster independence and confidence, encourage lifelong friendships and promote greater intercultural understanding. We value this partnership immensely and recognise the significant contribution it makes to the educational and personal development of our students.

Thank you to Ms Dedes, Ms Chiba, Ms Malagoli, and Mr Cazzetta, for their commitment to making this visit such a success, and congratulations to our students for representing Copperfield College with pride and enthusiasm.

Another successful international exchange that reflects our College’s commitment to global learning, cultural understanding and providing our students with opportunities that enrich their lives and broaden their horizons.

2027 Year 7 & 8 scholarship program

Copperfield College scholarship program promotes and recognises outstanding commitment by primary school students who have displayed a strong involvement in their school community. It rewards exemplary young people who are exceptional in different areas and possess personal qualities and values that will contribute to the life of Copperfield College.

Scholarships are awarded for two years commencing in Year 7 and then reviewed going into year 8. Scholarship recipients are Grade 6 students who will attend Copperfield College in Year 7 the following year. 

Each scholarship is valued at approximately $4500 and includes the following for both Year 7 & 8:

• Full set of Copperfield College uniform
• Laptop
• Textbooks
• All Camps
• Excursions
• Full value of school fees

There are 5 scholarships per campus in the following categories.

Academic Excellence Scholarships are available to students with an exemplary academic record who have demonstrated outstanding application and achievement in one or more of English, Mathematics or Science, together with a strong performance in general studies.

Student Leadership Scholarships are available to students who have demonstrated leadership skills. The successful applicant(s) will have excellent communication skills, display initiative, and have a passion to motivate, delegate, guide and direct fellow students.

Community (Good Citizenship) Scholarships are available to students who have made a significant demonstrable contribution to their community. The successful applicant(s) will display a strong social conscience as well as an outstanding work ethic and behaviour.

Sporting Excellence Scholarships are available to keen sports persons who have shown outstanding aptitude and personal achievement in one or many sporting field(s).

The Arts Scholarships are available to students who have displayed excellence and shown commitment in one or more of the Arts (such as; Drama, Music, Dance, Visual Arts). Successful applicants should have a record of involvement in all aspects of primary school life in addition to artistic talent.

It is with great pleasure that I announce the 2027 Year 7 & 8 scholarship recipients. Congratulations to the students, their families and of course their respective primary school communities. We are looking forward to welcoming these students to our College, next year. They will be contributing to the life of the College and leading our student cohorts in Years 7 & 8, in their respective areas.

Academic Excellence

• Srijan Sinha (Sydenham PS) – Sydenham Campus 
• Nhu Dinh (Kings Park PS) - Kings Park Campus 

Student Leadership 

• Amara Salah (Deanside PS) - Sydenham Campus
• Lina Nguyen (Movelle PS), Kings Park Campus

Community (Good citizenship)

• Ellena Le (Albanvale PS) – Kings Park Campus
• Danielle MacDonald (Parkwood Green PS) – Sydenham Campus

Sporting Excellence

• Victoria Pitkin-Liu (Deer Park West PS) - Sydenham Campus
• Tanique North (Kings Park PS) - Kings Park Campus

The Arts 

• Mia Miller (Kororoit Creek PS) - Sydenham Campus 
• Sofia Guerrero (Kororoit Creek PS) - Kings Park Campus 

All scholarships will be presented to the students, families and respective primary school communities during a primary school assembly. I will be attending the assemblies, together with the respective Campus Principal Class Officer to make the presentation. 

Thank you to the scholarship selection panel chairperson and members for their work during the selection/interview process.

Introduction of the Year 9 & 10 scholarship program in 2027

In 2027, Copperfield College will expand its scholarship program to include Year 8 students from within the College and the wider community who are preparing to enter Year 9. Applications for these new scholarships will soon be advertised.

The Year 9 and 10 Scholarship Program recognises and rewards students who demonstrate outstanding commitment, active involvement in their school community and a genuine desire to contribute positively to College life. It celebrates exceptional young people who demonstrate strong personal values, leadership, initiative and a commitment to excellence across a range of areas.

Each scholarship is valued at $2,000 and covers the following expenses for both Year 9 and Year 10:

• A complete Copperfield College uniform
• Books and other essential learning materials
• All school camps
• Excursions 
• Full value of school fees

The new program mirrors the existing Year 7 and 8 Scholarship Program, extending opportunities for deserving students to be recognised and supported throughout their secondary education.

Five scholarships will be awarded at each campus, across the designated scholarship categories, providing students with an opportunity to have their achievements, contributions and potential recognised. The categories are as per the Year 7 and 8 scholarship program.

• Academic Excellence 
• Student Leadership 
• Community (Good Citizenship) 
• Sporting Excellence 
• The Arts 

Nick Adamou

College Principal