Assistant Principal Report

Year 9 and 10/Engagement

by Aaron Petersen

An amazing opportunity for 2026 Year 9 students

 

Parkdale Secondary College has secured four places at the School for Student Leadership during Term 1 2026. Students live at the school for 9 weeks whilst undertaking amazing learning opportunities based around leadership, personal growth and community engagement. The program is fully residential, with accommodation for up to 45 students in a purpose-built facility. During their stay, students will live, learn and work in a very close environment with their peers.  

 

The school for Student leadership (sometimes known as the Alpine School) is a Government school located across four campuses.  Students from Parkdale SC will be attending the Don Valley Campus next year. 

 

Applications will open shortly for current Year 8 students. 

 

We will be hosting an online information session for parents later in the term and all Year 8 students will be introduced to the School for Student Leadership at a forthcoming year level assembly.  

 

2026 Course Counselling

 

The subject selection process for 2026 has been a significant focus this term. Students attended information evenings, completed their workbooks, and submitted their preferences after thorough consideration. I am grateful for the support that parents have given throughout this process.  The 1:1 course counselling interviews provided invaluable guidance, ensuring that each student’s choices align with their academic goals and interests. 

 

Koorie Day

 

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our Year 10 students for their positive involvement in Koorie Day. This years event featured Katrina Amon in the morning, the insightful movie "Zach's Ceremony" in the middle of the day and Scott Darlow livened up the students after lunch. Students were engaged throughout and really came away with a better appreciation of Koorie Culture and its history.

 

House Athletics

 

The highlight of this last week was undoubtedly the House Athletics Competition. This annual event saw incredible participation from students across all year levels. The day was filled with competitive athletic events, where students showcased their speed, strength, and teamwork. Adding a splash of creativity and fun, many students embraced the fancy dress theme, donning imaginative costumes that ranged from superheroes to historical figures. It was great to see the camaraderie and school spirit in full display. In addition to the traditional athletic events, students enjoyed various novelty events and music that kept the energy high throughout the day.

 

School of Rock

 

I would like to congratulate everyone involved in the musical "School of Rock." The quality of the performances was a testament to the dedication and effort that went into perfecting the show.   I would also like to acknowledge the support our senior students showed to the younger students involved in the musical. Their willingness to help junior students navigate their roles and the demands of the production was heart warming. 

 

Monash Scholars 

 

The Monash Scholars Program provides selected high achieving students from Years 10 - 12 with an exclusive opportunity to engage with Monash University.  Scholars who successfully gain a place at Monash University after completing Year 12 will continue to receive benefits including leadership and ambassador opportunities. 

 

Congratulations to the following students who have been offered a place in the Monash Scholars Class of 2025–2027:

Miles Buchanan
Emma Yoon