Principal's Report 

Start Of Term 4: 

Principal's Report 

As our students embark on their next adventures, we send them off with our best wishes and unwavering support, confident that they are well-equipped to navigate the exciting opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Throughout their time at South Oakleigh College, our students have demonstrated remarkable intellectual and emotional growth, nurtured by the collaborative efforts of our dedicated staff and the steadfast support of their families. The strong connections they have formed, the challenges they have overcome, and the successes they have celebrated have all been integral to their journey. As we look to their future, we are filled with optimism.

Our graduates are not only leaving with academic knowledge but also with life skills, resilience, and a sense of purpose. We are confident that the foundation laid here at South Oakleigh College has prepared them to make meaningful contributions to the world and to continue pursuing their aspirations with determination and kindness.

Currently, our senior students are preparing to sit their final exams, and we commend their dedication and perseverance. They have embraced this challenge with the determination to succeed to the best of their ability. This year, they have also shown leadership across many areas of school life, from coaching sports teams to participating in debating, contributing to the school production, and advocating for student voice as student leaders. These efforts have made them exceptional role models for the rest of the South Oakleigh College community. We take this opportunity to express how proud we are of their achievements, and we collectively wish them all the best for the exciting challenges and pathways that lie ahead.

The Valedictory Dinner and final assembly for the Class of 2024 was a significant milestone. Not only did it mark the end of this chapter of their education but also the beginning of a new and promising journey.

Throughout their time at South Oakleigh College, our students have experienced tremendous intellectual and emotional growth, nurtured by the support of our dedicated staff and the unwavering commitment of their families. 

Our graduates leave us not only with academic knowledge but also with resilience, life skills, and a clear sense of purpose. We are confident that the foundation laid here at South Oakleigh

College has prepared them to contribute meaningfully to the world and to pursue their goals with determination and kindness. As they embark on their next adventures, they carry with them our best wishes and support, fully equipped to embrace the exciting opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

The journey of our students would not have been possible without the support of their parents, caregivers, school staff, and community organizations. The dedication of their parents and caregivers has provided the foundation of love, guidance, and encouragement that has enabled these students to chase their dreams with confidence. Our staff’s tireless efforts and commitment to each student’s success have fostered an enriching and supportive learning environment. Additionally, partnerships with community organisations have enhanced the students’ experiences, offering diverse opportunities and resources. Together, this network of support has played a crucial role in preparing our students for the future, and for this, we are immensely grateful.

The Class of 2024 has embodied the College values of High Expectations, Respect, Responsibility, Resilience and Teamwork throughout their time at South Oakleigh College. Their journey this year and beyond has demonstrated these values in action, and we are proud of their accomplishments.

As they move forward, we remind them that success is not defined solely by the destination but by the journey itself. The road ahead will be filled with uncertainties, but it is through these unpredictable moments that they will truly discover themselves.

Let us also remember the importance of kindness and empathy. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, it is up to each of us to be the bridge that connects people. Our actions, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on those around us.

In conclusion, to the Class of 2024: your high school years have helped prepare you for the world beyond our school walls. As you part ways and venture into the future, do so with courage, compassion, and unwavering belief in yourselves. Your journey is just beginning, and we have no doubt that the future holds great promise for every one of you.

As Jiddu Krishnamurti once said, *"There is no end to education. It is not that you read a book, pass an examination, and finish your education. The whole of life, from the moment you are born to the moment you die, is a process of learning."*

World Teachers’ Day

Last Friday, 25th October, we celebrated World Teachers’ Day, a day recognised in over 100 countries. World Teachers' Day acknowledges the tremendous efforts of teachers in shaping our society, especially in an increasingly complex, multicultural, and technologically driven world.

Internationally, World Teachers’ Day is observed annually on the first Friday in October. However, in Australia, as this typically falls during the school term break, we celebrate on the last Friday in October each year.

Recognising World Teachers’ Day provides an opportunity to highlight the important role that teachers play in our communities. It is a moment for students, parents, and community members to show their appreciation for the dedication and contributions teachers make, both in their lives and to the broader community.

At South Oakleigh College, we continue to strive for quality teaching in every classroom and support our highly skilled teachers who provide the nurturing and encouragement needed for our students to succeed now and in the future. On behalf of our school community, I extend a heartfelt thank you to all our teaching staff for their hard work and dedication.

We also wish to acknowledge our Education Support staff for their invaluable contributions to our wonderful school.

Semester 2 Year 7-11 Examinations

As the end of the term approaches, our Year 7-11 students will soon be completing their Semester 2 examinations before transitioning to the new academic year through Step UP. These exams offer a valuable opportunity for students to review their understanding and reflect on the learning they have undertaken throughout Terms 3 and 4.

We encourage all students to set high expectations for themselves and apply teamwork by collaborating with peers to form productive study habits and study groups. Students are welcome to attend Homework Club in IT2/IT3 every Monday and Wednesday or seek additional support and resources from their teachers.

Our college staff, Student Services, and Wellbeing Team are available to assist students as needed. We wish all students the best in their studies and remind them to balance their preparation with adequate rest and a healthy eating plan.

Planning and Preparation for 2025

This is a quick reminder to the parents and guardians of students who will not be attending South Oakleigh College in 2025. If you have not already done so, please contact the school to inform us that your child will not be returning next year. You can communicate this information to the staff in our General Office.

This information is crucial for our teams as we plan and prepare classes and programs for the upcoming academic year.

Congratulations to Our State Champions

On 4 October, several of our talented students participated in the State School Athletics Championship. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment were evident on the day as they achieved both medals and personal bests. These accomplishments are a testament not only to their participation but also to their preparation, perseverance, and the support they received from those around them, enabling them to perform at their best.

Will Amiatu

1st - 16-year-old Discus and Shot Put

Serana Barratt

4th - 15-year-old Javelin

Sophie Volpert

1st - 15-year-old Discus

2nd - 15-year-old Shot Put

Lucia Shaw

1st - 14-year-old Triple Jump

2nd - 14-year-old Shot Put

3rd - 14-year-old 200m

Helen Koziaris

College Principal