Year 9–12 Campus News

We hope parents were able to take the opportunity to participate in the recent Parent Teacher Student Conferences. These are always an important part of the learning partnership, giving families the chance to hear teacher feedback directly, reflect on progress, and support students to take on board strategies for improvement.

This has been a short but very busy term, with plenty happening across all year levels. For our VCE students, the focus is now firmly on the final stage of their secondary journey. With exams approaching, we also look forward to celebrating their achievements through two very significant occasions.

On Friday October 19, the whole school will gather for the Farewell Assembly, where students from Years 7 to 12 come together for the final time this year. A highlight of the event is when our Year 12 students are clapped out of the hall by the rest of the school – a moving tradition that marks the end of their time at Sandringham College.

This is followed by our Graduation Ceremony at Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University, on Sunday October 21 at 5pm. Graduation is always the highlight of the Year 12 calendar – a grand occasion and the last time the Class of 2025 will gather as a whole cohort. Ticket information will be sent out next week, and we warmly welcome all friends and families to join us for this very special event. This is an occasion Year 12 students and their families should not miss!

The Trial Exams are also an especially important part of this period, giving students the chance to practise exam techniques, seek feedback, and identify any gaps that need to be addressed during revision.

Our VM students have now completed their program at the end of Term 3, and we congratulate them on their efforts and achievements. For those sitting exams in the coming weeks, there is much ahead, and we wish them all the very best in their preparations and performance.

Our Year 12 students recently enjoyed a special Cupcake Morning Tea with their teachers – a chance to pause, connect, and celebrate the relationships that have supported them throughout their final year of schooling. The event created a warm and relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of smiles, laughter, and gratitude shared between students and staff. A big thank you to Monique Sheehy and Emily Vale and captains Loa, Sofia, Liv and Natasha for their wonderful work in organising this occasion. Their efforts ensured our Year 12 students and their teachers felt recognised and appreciated as they continue through this important stage of their secondary journey.

Meanwhile, there is also a great deal happening for students in Years 9–11. With forthcoming exams and important end-of-year activities, it is vital that students remain focused and organised. For all students in Years 7 to 11, the Headstart Program begins on November 24, where they will commence work in their new year level in preparation for 2026. This occurs after the completion of the exam process. Please check Compass for all important information and dates regarding the examination period for students in years 9 to 11. 

Our recent Try July competition saw Year 9 and Year 10 students compete to earn the most green posts for positive behaviour, random acts of kindness, and personal successes. The competition was a fantastic way to celebrate and encourage students living our school values every day. In a very close contest, Year 10 just beat Year 9 and were rewarded with a “hot chip lunch” for the whole cohort – a well-deserved celebration of their efforts. Better luck next time, Year 9! A big thank you to Jack Rolfe and Tim Clifton, our Year Level Leaders, for driving this initiative and helping to make Try July such a positive and engaging experience for our students.

Our Year 10 students have also had valuable opportunities this term through the Life Skills program. The young men participated in the exceptional Man Cave workshops, which focus on positive masculinity, self-reflection, and building respectful relationships. At the same time, the young women engaged in the Live Life Project, which explored concepts such as the “glass ceiling,” gender equity, and strategies for empowerment in both education and future careers. These programs were thought-provoking and have provided our students with important perspectives and tools as they continue their journey into senior school.

The Year 11 Formal was a great success, with students looking fantastic, behaving impeccably, and thoroughly enjoying the evening. A special thank you to Tom McInerney and Azra Andric for their hard work in organising such a memorable event for our students.

Payment of deposits is now open for our Space Camp opportunity for students in Years 9 & 10 2026, and places are limited. Students will be selected based on their positive behaviour and strong work ethic. Unfortunately, not all who apply will be able to attend, so we encourage families to act quickly to secure a chance at this extraordinary experience. For those who miss out or might be interested in a different experience, there will be information sent out next term regarding another International Camp to Borneo for those in Year 9 & 10 in 2027. Students will be offered the opportunity to  experience work in the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and contribute to life in the villages of Borneo. More details to come early next term!

Please take note of the important dates included in this newsletter so that you and your child can stay well-prepared for the weeks ahead.

Have a great term break!

Vivienne McElwee

Campus Principal