Senior School

As we approach the final stretch of the academic year, our focus in Senior School is turning toward the upcoming examinations. These assessments mark an important milestone in our students’ educational journeys, offering them a chance to showcase their hard work, resilience, and dedication. Now is the perfect time to apply the study skills that have been emphasized in pastoral lessons throughout the year. We encourage students to harness these tools to enhance their learning, manage their time effectively, and approach their exams with confidence.

This term has been filled with remarkable achievements, both academically and personally. Our students have not only reached new academic milestones but have also displayed growth in character, empathy, and perseverance. These accomplishments are a testament to their hard work and the supportive environment fostered by our dedicated teachers, who are committed to helping each student succeed.

One of the highlights of the term was our annual International Trip, which this year took us to the stunning landscapes and rich history of Greece. With 30 students and 5 staff members embarking on this adventure, it was truly a trip of a lifetime. Together, we explored the vibrant fusion of Greek culture, language, history, and religion. Students were immersed in experiences that deepened their global understanding, sparked curiosity, and created lifelong memories.

As we conclude the year, let’s all continue to strive for excellence. Senior students, stay focused and finish strong—your hard work and commitment will pay off. Let’s celebrate this term’s successes and support each other as we cross the finish line together.

Paula D-Tsiagalos

Year Level Leader (Years 10 & 11)

Oakleigh Grammar Greece Tour 2024 - student reflection

This trip to Greece was a cultural and educational experience, which created ever-lasting memories for everyone. The five other teachers that came with us were Mrs Tsiagolos, Mrs Spanos, Mr Panagopoulos, Mr Joyce, and Mr Damatopoulos, and we were all very thankful for them for organising this trip and making it an enjoyable experience for everyone. 

Even though the trip was 20 days long, there were a lot of places we went to, and a lot of things we experienced. 

Firstly, we stayed for a week in Athens. We went to the Acropolis, various museums, the Presidential Guard, the Prime Minister’s mansion, the Hellenic Parliament, Lake Vouliagmeni, Mitropoli Church, and Olympic Stadium. During our stay in Athens, we also spent a day on the Saronic Gulf and we visited 3 Islands; Ydra, Poros and Aegina. This was probably my favourite part of the trip. All of these islands were beautiful, especially Aegina, where a few students including myself went to the monastery of Agios Nektarios.

After our week in Athens, we made our way to Kalamata, Gytheio, Sparta, Nafpaktos and Kalambaka. Kalambaka was spectacular, especially considering that we were all given the opportunity to visit 3 monasteries. One of which we had to hike to get to. This really made us experience what a pilgrimage would have been like for many monks and true believers of the Orthodox faith. We saw many churches and monasteries on this trip, but the monasteries in Meteora left us at a loss for words. These monasteries were on big rocks; the monks had to pull their materials from the ground in baskets to build their churches. I would definitely, recommend going to Meteora if you were going for a holiday in Greece. 

After Kalambaka, our last week included going to Thessaloniki, Lefkada, and back to Athens before leaving to come back home.  In Thessalonki, the boys spent a night at Mount Athos; the girls were left to do other activities which involved Greek Dancing and swimming in the clear water of Halkidiki. 

If I can summarise this trip in a few words, I would say that it was a once-in-a-lifetime, life changing experience that I enjoyed immensely especially connecting to my cultural roots. We were given the opportunity to practise the Greek language, connect with our history, and be grateful for our rich cultural heritage.

For travellers who have no Greek or Orthodox background, the trip was extremely educational  and allowed for learning outside the classroom. It also enabled everyone to open their minds to the wonderful world in which we live in and appreciate the 

I was extremely sad to leave Greece but I was happy to see my family and share my experiences with them. 

Everyone had a fun time on this trip, and I know that the teachers and students that went had many memorable experiences to share with their families. Thank you once again to the teachers and to the School for organising this truly wonderful experience.

Irene Koutsovasilis 

Year 9 Student