News from Frankston High School

SENIOR School Update

Over a month into the school year, the Senior Campus is buzzing with positivity. During a recent learning walk through the campus, I observed a vibrant mix of learning activities. 

 

Some teachers were leading explicit instruction, while students engaged in various tasks; completing practice examination questions, participating in practical ‘lab’ sessions in Year 11 Sport and Recreation, applying theory to practice in VCE VM, and capturing images in Media. Meanwhile, Year 12 Visual Communication Design students were preparing to submit their first Unit 3 SAC, and Year 12 English classes were writing practice essays in preparation for their first assessment. Extra revision classes are being offered at lunchtime and after school to provide students with additional support as they prepare for their upcoming assessments. The learning environment is calm and focused, a reflection of our students’ respect for themselves and those around them, as well as their sense of responsibility for their learning, two of our core values. 

 

As many students complete their first SAC or prepare for it, I have been impressed with how they are utilising different study spaces. The Presentation Space is fostering collaboration, the Silent Study area supports independent study, and the beautiful outdoor garden quadrangle provides a refreshing space for reflection and revision. This embodies Frankston High School’s pillars of Aspiration, Community, and Excellence. 

Optima: Supporting Student Growth and Wellbeing 

Year 11 and 12 Optima classes, in their new format for 2025, are progressing extremely well. Across the school, students participate in an Optima pastoral care class once a week. The name Optima reflects our longstanding school motto, Optima Semper—Best Always—which holds deep meaning for our school community. Optima is a dedicated space where students explore what it means to be their best—academically, personally, and within their community—while developing the skills and knowledge to achieve their goals. 

Teachers in Optima classes advocate for students by prioritising their wellbeing, believing in their potential, and celebrating their successes. In Year 12, Optima covers a range of critical life skills, including: 

  • Emotional intelligence, respectful relationships, and goal setting 

  • Collaboration, connection, and study skills 

  • Managing and enhancing stress, health, and wellbeing 

  • Careers guidance and pathway planning 

  • Education and celebrations linked to events such as Harmony Week, ANZAC Day, and house events 

Year 11 and 12 can be a challenging time as students navigate their academic responsibilities alongside part-time work, extracurricular activities, and social commitments. Through Optima classes and year-level assemblies, and with the support of our Wellbeing Team and Year Level Coordinators, we embed proactive wellbeing strategies to help students manage these demands. 

 

In 2024, with significant input from students, parents, and wellbeing specialists, we developed a set of Student Wellbeing Responsibilities, outlining ways students can actively support their health and wellbeing: 

  • Use strategies to enhance physical and social health and wellbeing including healthy sleep habits and routines, nutritious and balanced diet, engaging in physical activity, building and maintaining social connections, appropriate technology use and positive coping strategies. 

  • Strive for Optima Semper by embracing learning, engaging in reflection, setting aspirational goals and challenging oneself. 

  • Develop emotional awareness and proactively manage stress and emotions through self-awareness and self-regulation strategies.  

  • Seek support from teachers, friends, Sub School, Wellbeing or external supports when needed. 

  • Promote a supportive and inclusive environment through peer support and modelling respectful behaviour. 

  • Participate in school or community activities to improve connection and belonging. 

 For more information on wellbeing strategies and resources for students and parents, visit the Student Wellbeing Hub: Physical wellbeing | Student Wellbeing Hub 

Career Education and Pathways Support 

During Years 11 and 12, Career Education is a strong focus, delivered primarily through Optima classes. Year 12 students will also have a specialist career meeting with Ms Lyon, Ms Borshoff, or Ms Caminiti, our Career Practitioners. Before this meeting, students will complete their Career Action Plan via Compass. 

 

Year 11 students will participate in a Course Confirmation meeting with a trained counsellor in Term 3. Additionally, they will complete a scaffolded Career Action Plan and have access to career support with Ms Borshoff, who leads Year 11 career development. 

Students can access the Careers Team in the middle of the Senior Campus (Presentation Space near Room 304). Meetings can be booked through Ms Gifford or via a referral from the Year 11 and 12 Sub School Teams. 

Senior School Team 

I am grateful to our Senior School Team and teachers for their dedication, support, and high expectations for our students. This team creates a strong community of support, ensuring every student can work toward their unique pathway goals. 

 

As students continue preparing for and completing their first assessments—whether at school, through VET, or in Structured Workplace Learning—I wish them all the very best. 

 

Ms Tiffany Greenhill

Campus Principal

Senior School

 

We understand families calendar book up quickly. Please see below for some important dates to note.

 

Click Here for Senior School key contacts

Click Here for Year 11 only Calendar Dates

Click Here for Year 12 only Calendar Dates