From the Acting Principal
by Michael Tuck
Acting Principal’s Report
It’s hard to believe we’re closing in on the end to Term 3. With Year 12 students working hard to complete their courses, and so many events and activities across the school, Parkdale Secondary has been buzzing with energy. Our mid-year review of the Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) was very positive, with plenty to celebrate. We’re proud of the progress so far and focused on keeping that momentum going.
Capital Improvements
We’re excited to share that new shade sails will be installed over the Term 3 holiday break—perfect timing ahead of summer. We are also exploring further projects to enhance our facilities and plan to meet with student groups to discuss potential ideas with them in the coming weeks.
Celebrating Success
This term we introduced our Strive and Achieve awards at the Semester 1 celebration assemblies. These awards recognise effort, commitment, and perseverance—qualities we value highly. Our students and their families recently enjoyed the Award Winners’ Breakfast, with many parents expressing how proud they were to see their children recognised. We aim to build on these awards as the year progresses to align with our vision of ‘Challenging our community to strive and achieve’.
Building Community
It has been fantastic to see strong parent and carer engagement, with around 300 families attending each Course Selection Information Evening—our best attendance in recent years. Our first Winter Wellbeing Festival also brought together students, families, and community organisations such as Headspace, Relationship Matters, Kingston Youth Services, and Gamblers Help. The evening was both informative and supportive.
Highlights of Term 3 (so far!)
School of Rock – Our school musical was nothing short of spectacular. The energy, talent, and teamwork on stage and behind the scenes made us all incredibly proud.
Athletics Day – Students showed great spirit, with some records broken and great participation.
Science Week – Our Science Fair was a wonderful showcase, including projects from both Parkdale students and local primary schools. The excitement and curiosity on display was a real highlight.
Other Achievements – Debating, sporting successes, Year 8 engagement program, Year 10 Koori Day, and our ASRC food drive have all demonstrated the diversity and talent of our students.
Looking Ahead
Planning for 2026 is already underway. Course selections are complete, and staff leadership positions are in progress. These steps help us prepare for next year’s timetable and staffing.
Thank you once again for your support of our school. Parkdale continues to live out its vision of Challenge, Community, Strive, Achieve—and it is wonderful to see our students, staff, and families contributing to such a vibrant and positive school community.