Senior School update
by Mr Nic Barca, Head of Senior School
Box Hill High School
The term is ticking along quickly for our Senior Students. SAC and Outcome scores are now being released, with feedback being provided for students to action, reflect on and use to set new goals heading into the next Area of Study. This feedback process is incredibly important, as it allows students to identify both strengths and areas requiring improvement before moving into new content.
A big congratulations to our Year 11 Student Leaders, who were formally presented with their leadership badges this week. It was great to recognise the commitment, initiative and positive contribution these students make to our school community.
Mid Year Exams
Mid-Year Exams are fast approaching for all Unit 1 classes. These exams are an important opportunity for students to experience formal exam conditions, develop their time management skills, and identify gaps in their understanding before moving into Semester Two.
While these exams do not contribute directly to a student’s ATAR, they play a critical role in preparing students for the expectations of Year 12 and external examinations.
Across classes, teachers will heavily focus on revision and exam preparation. Students should be receiving revision materials at least two weeks prior to the exam period, alongside explicit teaching of revision and exam strategies in class. This includes timed practice questions, unpacking command terms, regular memory retrieval activities such as quizzes, and exposure to practice exams. Homework during this period should be centred around revision, with the aim of helping students build confidence and consistency leading into exams.
Parents can play a significant role in supporting students during this time by encouraging consistent study routines at home, helping students maintain balance with sleep and organisation, and checking in regularly about upcoming exams and revision progress. Small, regular conversations about preparation can make a big difference in building accountability and reducing stress.
Goal setting has also been a major focus across all Year 11 and 12 Home Groups. We are continuing to drill down on student goals, with a strong focus on the “how” - what practical steps, habits and routines need to be put in place to achieve success.
The VCE Improvement Team has worked extensively with our high-achieving students, and we will now begin targeting students who are achieving well but would benefit from additional mentoring and encouragement to take the next step. Individual mentor sessions will commence shortly.
Year 12 students will also complete a mid-year English exam, alongside one Science subject of their choice.
These assessments provide students with valuable practice under exam conditions, external assessor feedback, and important data to help track progress across the remainder of the year.
English remains a prerequisite for all university pathways, and with our school continuing to achieve strong English results, we are committed to maintaining these high expectations and supporting students to perform at their very best.
Parents/guardians are asked to head to Compass to pay/consent.