From the Principal

It was an intense but incredibly rewarding Term 3, with some amazing opportunities to recognise our students’ achievements and reflect on what we have achieved as a school in the last 4 years through our Review.

The school’s production “On Screen! On Stage!” in August, was devised and performed by students themselves, together with the expert guidance of Director Rob Lloyd and Assistant Director Roy Christoffelz. The cast led us on a hilarious journey through some of cinema’s most celebrated movies, albeit with a Dandenong twist, that highlighted our students’ unique talents. The audience were engaged throughout and it was wonderful to be able to return to the days of “live performance” and welcome our families back to the theatre.

Another amazing achievement that you may not be aware of, was that of Banin A in Year 10 Eucalyptus. Banin became National Karate Champion in her weight division early in September. An outstanding result for her and her family.

The School Review also took place in Term 3 and was an opportunity for us to reflect on our progress towards the strategic plan we set together as a community in 2019. The process was rigorous and included 3 field work days where the panel met with groups of teachers, students and parents, as well as completing classroom observations across the school. By the end of the final panel day, we had successfully identified our strategic direction for the next 4 years and I would like to thank all those who were involved. I was incredibly proud of the results and am looking forward to communicating the review findings and reviewer’s report later in the year. 

Probably my favourite moment of the term though, was in the final week when we recognised our cultural diversity. Each day, through community performance, a student assembly, food and music, we celebrated what a unique and remarkable community we are. It was fantastic to see students wearing cultural dress once again and watch them mingle together in the green space at lunchtime. Welcome evidence that the days of the pandemic are well and truly behind us.

Finally, as we begin our holiday break, I would like to wish all our Year 12 students every success as they prepare for their final exams and assessments. We are incredibly proud of all of you.

Best Wishes,

Susan Ogden