Banksia House

As I prepare to leave the school and move on to a new chapter at John Monash Science School, I’ve found myself reflecting deeply on what this community has meant to me, especially my time as SRC representative for Banksia.

Being SRC representative for 9 Banksia has meant more to me than just holding a leadership role. It challenged me and helped me become more confident. My time in Banksia made me feel like I belonged to a House that supported me and helped shape who I am today. Banksia became a place of friendship, where I felt seen and encouraged, and in the end, I became proud to represent this house. This is not something I am leaving behind easily. 

I want to thank the students of Banksia for their energy and spirit, which always make every day full of laughter. I would also like to thank my teachers for their guidance and passion. The experiences I’ve gained here, the confidence to speak up, the responsibility to lead, and the amazing friendships formed along the way have made this school feel like a second home. 

While I am really excited for the opportunities ahead, leaving this community is so hard. This school has given me memories and connections that I will carry with pride wherever I go, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. 

Thank you to everyone in Banksia and Dandenong High School, for all the experiences you’ve given me. Saying goodbye is difficult, but I will leave with gratitude, pride, and a deep appreciation for the community that helped me grow. 

Sofia J

Year 9 SRC

Banksia 

The 2025 school year has been another positive year for Banksia House, marked by strong levels of student engagement, participation and community spirit. Our students have continued to demonstrate the values of enthusiasm and leadership, contributing to an inclusive House culture that celebrates both individual and collective success.

Banksia students have shown a continued commitment to participating in a wide range of school community events, reflecting their pride and sense of belonging within the wider school community. Whether on the sporting field, the stage, or in the art studio, Banksia students have continued to make their presence felt in every corner of school life. Banksia students’ participation in the Swimming Carnival, Athletics Carnival, Chorals and various charity fundraising initiatives provided some of highest participation rates across the school, with students from all year levels getting involved. 

These collective efforts have culminated in Banksia House achieving outstanding recognition, winning both the House Shield and the Social Services Shield in 2025. This is a testament to the dedication, teamwork, and House pride that have become hallmarks of Banksia’s identity.

In addition to these major events, Banksia students have also been active contributors to the Autumn and Spring Concerts, the Arts and Design Festival and the annual School Production.

This year has also seen a significant increase in student leadership and engagement, with many students stepping forward to take on roles that foster stronger connections across year levels. There has been a growing interest in mentorship and partnership opportunities, as students seek to learn from and support one another in both academic and co-curricular pursuits. This initiative reflects an exciting shift toward a more connected and inclusive House environment, where every student feels valued and inspired to contribute.

Our staff too have used 2025 to deepen working connections in the House, maximising the expertise of each other in the House which has led to some exciting and new ways of working together. There has been a greater sharing of practice and notably more of us seeking guidance and opportunities from each other to further our own learning and practice. 

Looking ahead, Banksia House remains committed to building on this momentum. The foundations laid this year will continue to strengthen our sense of community, enhance student engagement, and promote leadership opportunities for all. Our focus will remain on creating meaningful connections, between students, staff and the wider school community, that sustain a growing sense of legacy in Banksia House. 

This has truly been a year of continued growth and achievement. The spirit and enthusiasm shown by our students are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community works together with shared purpose and pride. 

Thomas Hassett

Banksia House Leader

Meet the Banksia House Leadership Team!