Happy holidays, everyone.

As I reach the close of my first year at Brighton Secondary College, I’ve found myself reflecting on the journey we have taken together, as well as looking ahead to the exciting years to come. This past week has been particularly significant: on Tuesday we welcomed the Class of 2031 for Statewide Orientation Day, and on Thursday we celebrated the outstanding VCE results of our Class of 2025.

Celebrating Exceptional VCE Achievement

Our VCE results this year were exceptional, reflecting the sustained commitment, skill, and resilience of both our students and teachers. Some of the key highlights include:

Dux ATAR: 99.40 (Top 0.6% nationally)
Two perfect Study Scores – Biology and Mathematical Methods
Median Study Score: 31
Average Study Score: 30.56
Median ATAR: 76.65 (placing our middle student in the top 25% of Australia)
15% of students achieved an ATAR above 90 (State average: 10%)
42% achieved an ATAR above 80 (State average: 20%)
60% achieved an ATAR above 70 (State average: 30%)
77% achieved an ATAR above 60 (State average: 40%)
45 Study Scores of 40+, placing those students in the top 9% statewide in their subjects

While these outcomes speak for themselves, what stands behind them is just as important. This cohort began their secondary schooling in remote learning, navigated the uncertainty of the pandemic, and later experienced instability within school leadership and staffing. Their resilience, adaptability, and determination have been remarkable.

To our families: thank you for your trust, patience, and commitment during these years.To our students: we are deeply proud of you – not only for your results, but for the way you travelled the journey.

Looking Ahead: A Positive and Stable Future

In contrast, the experience awaiting our Class of 2031 feels markedly brighter. While no school is ever completely shielded from global or local challenges, it seems unlikely that they will face disruptions as significant as those felt in recent years.

I am confident that Brighton Secondary College is entering a period of renewed stability, growth, and optimism. We are well placed to deliver stronger learning outcomes and an increasingly enriching school experience for every student.

A Warm Beginning for the Class of 2031

Orientation Day offered a powerful glimpse of what lies ahead. The warmth and welcome extended to our incoming Year 7 students was extraordinary—unlike anything I have experienced in any school community.

From the parent coffee morning, to Mr Chalk’s engaging welcome, to the thoughtfully planned activities led by our staff and students, and our wonderful peer support students, every element of the day helped ease the natural nerves of transitioning to secondary school. Many students proudly shared with me that they had already made a new friend – something that, in the life of a young person, matters more than almost anything else.

Positive relationships and a sense of belonging form the foundation of a great school experience, and it is clear that the Class of 2031 is off to a wonderful start.

Thank You and Best Wishes

On behalf of all staff at Brighton Secondary College, I wish every family a safe, joyful, and restorative break. We look forward to welcoming you back in 2026 and continuing our journey together.

Peter Langham,

Principal

Virtual School Victoria Awards