Senior School 

Valedictory Dinner for the Class of 2023

On November the 16th 2023, the Vermont community gathered at the Palladium at Crown to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2023.

We are fortunate that at Vermont Secondary College, we attract a wide range of talent from across the area. The following students were recognised for their exemplary contribution and achievement across the school. 

Kurt Ennis - Musician of the Year

Charlotte Cetoupe - Performing Artist of the Year

Kate Montgomery & Abby Spencer - Sportsperson of the Year

Students were then recognised for their academic excellence in their year 12 studies. These awards are in recognition of their achievements in the classroom given by their classroom teacher. 

Towards the end of the night, families saw their child walk on stage to graduate from Vermont Secondary College. These students achieved their VCE and the culmination of 13 years of schooling drew to a close. Proud parents were seen throughout the room as the community collectively celebrated their achievements.

Finally, the night finished off with the announcement of the three major award winners. This award comes with a generous scholarship component proudly donated by the Lions Club of South Vermont. Their continued support and commitment to education and the community is inspiring, serving with uncommon kindness that puts the needs of the community first.

Congratulations to the Class of 2023. We wish you all the best in your future endeavours.

Minhtu Nguyen and Laura Churcher – Program Managers.

RAISE OUR VOICE 

Arwa Millwala (Year 12 Hotham) wrote a speech as part of a competition for Raise Our Voice Australia, giving the youth of Australia an opportunity to be heard by federal MPs in Parliament. Arwa won the competition, and her speech was read out by Adam Bandt, Leader of the Australian Greens, in Parliament on November 30th. An amazing achievement - well done Arwa! 

Here is a transcript of the speech:

Australia must encourage its youth to hear our voices and help implement our suggestions for better change. Although we are your future, we do not feel sufficiently supported. The policies of the government constantly appear to fall short, and we don’t get what we need. However, what do we need? Australia needs to be accessible. Access to education, avenues for change, networks of support, and a more inclusive Australia because, after all, aren't diversity and inclusivity what we're all about? We acknowledge the difficulty of your work, but we would like to live in a country where the fundamental issues of our planet are dealt with. Targets include living standards and quality of life as well as climate change. The cost of living has skyrocketed making it difficult for many Australians to live here. The climate crisis is not addressed due to the risks. However, may I add, if risks are not taken how will Australia progress? Many of us are tired of fighting for the change that must occur. We want to preserve Earth and take advantage of all it has to offer, but you only worry about your financial gain. Australia is our home too, and you can undoubtedly make it better.