Senior School Principal

SAC and Exam Period Update

The recent SAC and exam period has concluded smoothly, with students demonstrating a focused and responsible approach to their assessments. Across all Senior year levels, students engaged positively with the process, using the opportunity to consolidate their learning and apply the skills developed throughout the semester.

This assessment window provided students with valuable experience in managing time, preparing effectively and working under formal conditions, all essential components of successful assessment readiness. It also allowed teachers to gather meaningful evidence of student progress and identify areas for further growth as we move into second Semester.

For many students, the period served as a chance to reflect on their study habits, strengthen their revision strategies and build confidence in approaching future SACs and exams. We commend students for the mature way they navigated this busy part of the term and thank staff for their ongoing support and organisation throughout this busy period.

VCE Vocational Major Masterchef Challenge

The VCE Vocational Major Masterchef Challenge was a fantastic celebration of creativity, teamwork and culinary skill, with students showcasing their talents in a high‑energy cooking competition. As one of the four teacher judges, I had the pleasure of tasting each dish and seeing firsthand the effort, imagination and pride students brought to their creations.

Students were judged on taste, appearance and creativity and a huge congratulations must go to the winning team consisting of Ben C, Harry F, Henry H and Miller M whose delicious carbonara stood out for its flavour!

Well done to all students who took part in the challenge, and thank you to Mrs Jess Oostemeyer who facilitated this engaging task as part of their Literacy coursework.

Year 12 Formal

The Year 12 Formal was held at the Karralyka Centre on Thursday 18 June giving students an opportunity to celebrate the end of their Unit 3 studies and of course their final year of schooling. The venue provided the perfect backdrop for a night that was filled with energy and laughs.

The evening’s activities brought out the creativity of the group, beginning with a lively scavenger hunt that had students racing around to find items amongst the cohort including pens, gold shoes and lipgloss. One of the standout moments of the night was the Runway Reimagined challenge, where students designed outfits using nothing but toilet paper before taking to the catwalk to Madonna’s iconic Vogue. The room erupted with laughter and applause as each group showcased their imaginative creations.

The much‑anticipated Year Level Awards celebrated the unique strengths and personalities within the cohort and throughout the night, the lolly bar proved to be a popular gathering point, offering a sweet treat between the dancing and photos with friends.

It was a wonderful opportunity for students to relax, celebrate their journey so far and create memories that will stay with them long after Year 12. A heartfelt thank‑you goes to Mrs Samantha Fox (Year 12 Coordinator), Mr Daniel Cole (Head of Year 12) and the student leaders whose planning made the evening such a success.

Year 10 Work Experience

This year’s Year 10 Work Experience Program has been an outstanding success, with students embracing the chance to step beyond the classroom and experience the realities of the working world. Over the course of the week, students were placed across a diverse range of industries from healthcare and early childhood settings to construction, retail, technology, hospitality and community services. Their willingness to engage, ask questions and take initiative has been a highlight of the program.

Employers have already shared positive feedback, noting students’ professionalism, reliability and eagerness to learn. Many commented on the confidence and communication skills our students demonstrated, as well as their ability to adapt to new environments. It has been wonderful to see students gaining clarity about their career pathways and discovering new interests they may wish to pursue in the future.

We extend our sincere thanks to the families and host organisations who supported the program and provided such meaningful learning opportunities. A special acknowledgement goes to the Careers and Pathways Team including Samantha Hadley and Paul Duncan, who oversaw the coordination of the program as well as the teachers who visited students during their placements. Their involvement ensured students felt supported, encouraged and connected throughout their work experience journey.

As we celebrate the success of this year’s program, we also encourage our current Year 9 students to begin thinking about their own work experience placements for 2027. Students who are hoping to secure a specific industry, competitive organisation or specialised placement are especially encouraged to start making enquiries early, as many sought‑after workplaces fill their spots well in advance. Next year’s Work Experience Program will run from Monday 21 June to Friday 25 June 2027, and beginning the search now will give students the best chance of securing a placement that truly aligns with their interests and future pathways.

2027 Subject Selection

In Term 3, students that are currently in Years 9, 10 and 11, will start receiving details regarding their 2027 subject selections. Details about our information sessions will be published shortly; however, please note the following dates:

• VCE VM and VET Information Night (Library: 6.00pm-7.00pm) – Tuesday 14 July 

• Senior School Information Night (online) – Tuesday 21 July

• Year 10 into Year 11 Course Confirmation Interviews – Tuesday 4 August

Our 'VCE VM and VET Information Night' offers students and families a clear overview of the VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs, outlining what they involve and how they can support future career options.

The Senior School Information Night remains an important part of the subject selection process, providing students and parents/carers with up-to-date guidance from Heads of Year Level and experienced English and Mathematics teachers.

The Year 10 Course Confirmation Interviews give students and their families the opportunity to discuss their intended Year 11 pathway with a member of the leadership team. These interviews will take place in the college library between 10.00am and 6.00pm, with bookings available via Compass early next term. We strongly encourage all students to attend with a parent or carer.

Year 11 Central Australia Tour Update

Our Central Australia Tour group has made steady progress through the Northern Territory since departing Melbourne on Saturday 20 June, engaging in a range of planned activities and site visits. Their time in Darwin included a general sightseeing tour of the Waterfront Precinct, Stokes Hill Wharf and Cullen Bay Marina, followed by an evening visit to the Mindil Beach Markets to observe the sunset and explore the local stalls.

The group then travelled to the Heritage‑listed Kakadu National Park, with a stop at Berry Springs for a swim. Their self‑guided exploration of Kakadu has included visits to the Bowali Visitor Centre, the Warradjan Cultural Centre, the Ubirr Art Site and Nourlangie Rock. Students also completed a Yellow Water Cruise, providing students and staff with an opportunity to observe the wetlands and local wildlife.

The group has since continued on to Katherine, with a visit to the Mataranka Thermal Pools as part of their itinerary. The tour will proceed with further scheduled activities in the coming days and we will provide a full update on the remainder of the tour in our first newsletter of Term 3. 

I would just like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the staff attending the Central Australia Tour for volunteering their time: Annie Hearne, Rod Mitchell, Chris Sheehan, Emma Day, Nicole Pratt and Grace Mororney. Their commitment and supervision have ensured the smooth running of this extended learning experience for our students.

The Victorian State School Spectacular

We're proud to have Logan Bexley and Liana Ohi representing us in the 2026 Victorian State Schools Spectacular - This is Me.

Students from across the state will take to the stage at John Cain Arena on Saturday 29 August (1.00pm and 6.30pm), performing to an audience of around 12,000.

Talented students will feature on stage, while many other students will work behind the scenes, gaining professional experience under the mentorship of Creative Director Neill Gladwin, Musical Director Chong Lim AM and Dance Director Yvette Lee.

For a wonderful, family entertainment experience, and to cheer on our students from the audience, be quick to secure tickets when they go on sale at 11am Thursday 16 July via www.ticketek.com.au/spectacular

As we finish the Term, we encourage all families to take some time over the winter break to rest and reset. The mid‑year pause provides a useful moment for students to step back from their routines, recharge, and prepare for the learning ahead. Thank you for your support throughout the term. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in Term 3!