Principal's Message
The midpoint of this term is upon us. So many wonderful activities and events have taken place over the past six weeks; it’s a testament to the hardworking and committed staff who organise these events. These range from whole school events such as the Athletics Carnival, Cultural Week, and IDAHOBIT Day to many smaller activities. Notably, there was the Medieval Incursion for Year 8 Humanities classes, the Year 12 Formal, many and varied performing arts productions, the Year 8 camp, the Outdoor Education camp, and a full spectrum of sporting activities each week.
School Council
Earlier this month, we held our third School Council meeting of the year, and I was delighted to meet the parents, students, and staff who make up the council. I was eager to hear the parents' perspectives on the school and their hopes and aspirations for all students at UHS. Thank you to the parents and students who support the school by positively contributing to the various committees.
As you may be aware, the role of substantive principal is once again advertised, and a principal selection panel has been formed to review applications and select the new principal. If all goes as planned, this process will be finalised by the beginning of Term 3.
Wellbeing Data
Over the past fortnight, students have been completing the Attitudes to School Survey ( AtoSS). This is a DE state-wide survey that captures important wellbeing data. It allows us to compare and analyse data to help identify areas of celebration and potential areas that may need additional attention. One such example from the 2025 AIP is the element Sense of connectedness. In 2024, for Years 7-9, 53% of students responded favourably for this element compared to 52% for Similar schools and the State average of 47%. For Years 10 – 12, the positive endorsement for Sense of connectedness was 54% at UHS, compared to 51% in Similar schools and 47% for the State. We use this data to examine long-term trends to help determine future resource allocation.
Transition
This time of year, we have a significant focus on the Grade 6 to Year 7 transition. The college faces enrolment pressure once again, and the tours from earlier this year were well attended and at capacity. We look forward to finalising this process by the end of this term so we can begin planning for 2026 with certainty.
Senior Pathways
A reminder that on Tuesday, June 17, our annual Senior Subject Expo is taking place again. This is an important time for our current Year 9 and 10 students to discover and learn about the many subjects and pathways available to them in 2026 and beyond. All Year 9 and 10 students will be required to attend this event at Story St. Parents and carers are invited to join their child at this expo. Details will be posted on Compass closer to the date. Due to the large number of students sitting for the GAT and the staff required to support the expo, no regular classes will be held on this day. Parents of students in Years 7 and 8 who require assistance with supervising their child on this day should email university.hs@education.vic.gov.au
I acknowledge and congratulate all the Year 10 students who have successfully organised excellent placements for their upcoming work experience in the final week of this term. This is a wonderful opportunity to spend time in the workplace and seek inspiration for a potential future career. Often, we find students returning from work experience with a renewed sense of vigour and appreciation for school and the commitment needed to succeed in their chosen path.
Finally, as we approach the latter half of the term, many students will be preparing for their upcoming exams. I encourage our families to support their children by ensuring they get a good night's sleep and a healthy breakfast. We offer a comprehensive breakfast club on-site most mornings starting at 8 am. I have included an article below, from renowned psychologist Andrew Fuller, which may assist your child in preparing well for the Year 10 and 11 exams commencing this coming week.
Arthur Soumalias