Principal Team Editorial
Remembrance Day
On Tuesday the 11th of November, just before 11am, the school paused to remember the bravery and sacrifice of the people who lost their lives whilst serving Australia and its allies in wars, conflicts and peace operations.
Over the PA, our 2026 College Captains, Katilyn and Ash. read The Ode followed by trumpeters Blake McKenzie and Jaiden Dollery playing the Last Post and the Rouse.
We extend a warm invitation to all our families to join us next year on Wednesday 23rd April for our Anzac Day assembly where we honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and reflect on the importance and strength of communities when they come together and make a stand for peace.
Exams
This week, our Year 11 students started their exams while our Year 12 students continued theirs. Some Year 11s are also juggling Early Start Year 12 exams in addition to their Year 11 program. We know exams are an important measure of performance but perhaps more importantly, they give students a chance to extend themselves, get out of their comfort zone and build resilience.
As a mum of a Year 11 student currently juggling Year 11 and 12 exams, I see first hand how much she is stepping up to the plate, working through the application of study and striving for outcomes that will give her a sense of pride and satisfaction. It’s a delicate balance and I wish the best to our Year 11 and 12 students doing exams (and to their families who are supporting them!!).
College Captains 2026
Last week we announced our four 2026 College Captains and I’m excited to share with our community a little more about who they are and what makes them tick!
What is the best thing about Wantirna College?
Ash: For me the best thing about Wantirna College is both the opportunities that the College offers, and the community that has been built. There's such a wide range of activities and opportunities for all students across the school which ensures there's a place for everyone, where we can all grow into our own person.
Kaitlyn: The best thing about Wantirna College is how inclusive it is. Everyone is accepted for who they are, and every student can find their place here. I also love how highly student voice is valued it really shows that the school cares about our opinions and experiences.
Maggie: The best thing about Wantirna college is the opportunities that are offered - school camps, sporting opportunities, leadership opportunities and academic opportunities.
Kendra: The teachers who go the extra mile to help their students, and the way both staff and students have a voice - working together to improve the school.
What do you want to focus your leadership on next year?
Ash: I really want to focus on the connections between other students within the school. Having more cross-year level activities and allowing all year levels to connect with each other.
Kaitlyn: I want to focus on strengthening the connection between different year levels and promoting student wellbeing. I think it’s important that every student feels supported, connected, and excited to come to school each day.
Maggie: I want to focus my leadership on creating a connected and inclusive school environment where everyone feels like they belong and can take opportunities offered to them.
Kendra: Helping all students feel confident in their voice, abilities and sense of self. I’d also like to build a school culture that prioritises support, collaboration and community.
What inspires you in life?
Ash: A lot of my inspiration comes from my family and friends. They all push me to try new things and step out of my comfort zone which allows me to grow.
Kaitlyn: I’m inspired by people who show kindness and resilience, those who stay positive even when things get tough, and who make a difference in other people’s lives. It motivates me to do the same and to help create a supportive environment for others.
Maggie: I am inspired by all the hardworking people in our college community. Seeing the hard work student and teachers put into school and outside of school makes me also want to work harder and achieve my goals.
Kendra: The idea that tomorrow can always be better than today. Like they say: some days are diamonds, some days are stone.
What is the biggest issue or challenge facing young people today?
Ash: I believe that the biggest challenge today unfortunately is social media. Although it can have its benefits, it can still be such a harmful place - especially for young people. There are solutions in place to help combat this, but I still believe there is plenty of work to be done to make social media a safe space for everyone.
Kaitlyn: One of the biggest challenges facing young people today is mental health and the stigma around seeking help. So many young people struggle silently due to pressures from social media, school, work, and family. It’s important to me that people know it’s okay to ask for help and that there’s no shame in prioritising your mental health.
Maggie: The biggest issue facing young people today is the lack of face-to-face connections often because of opting to connect online rather than in person which can lead to young people feeling isolated and lonely.
Kendra: A lack of genuine communication and connection, which can leave us feeling isolated or lonely. We all play a part in looking out for each other.
What are 5 things your school community should know about you or might be interested in knowing about you?
Ash:
I'm really passionate about everything I do.
I love building and creating relationships with everyone.
I'm involved in plenty of extracurriculars
I love working in a team and with other people.
I'm a very social person!
Kaitlyn:
I love to play netball. If I’m not at school, I’m probably playing netball.
I love Christmas, is the best time of year. I love decorating and spending time with my family.
Pasta is for sure my favourite food, any type of pasta!
I’m really passionate about creating a safe space for students in our school where everyone can be an advocate in their own learning.
I used to make friendship bracelets and sell them at market stalls!
Maggie:
I love to bake (especially bread)!
I’m currently the S.R.C President.
I’m passionate about every student feeling like their voice is being heard in decisions affecting the school.
I have a Horse named Abbie
I’m a big Formula 1 fan!
Kendra:
I play both the banjo and violin.
I am a nationally placing precision target shooter.
I believe every students have equal potential to achieve their goals and aspirations.
I’m always up for a chat!
I’m an avid NRL watcher, and a die-hard Rabbitohs fan
iCan Challenge 2026
Family members welcome…
Our team started training walks this term with our 17km weekend training walk scheduled for Sun 23rd November. Family members are more than welcome to join our team – if you are interested in participating in either the training or the event itself please fill out this form:
Parent or Family iCan Challenge Expression of Interest Form
We are hoping to raise in excess of 100k next year for the Good Friday Appeal and with our biggest team so far, we think we’re on track!!
Carrie Wallis
Principal