Assistant Principal 

 As we find ourselves in the business that comes with being in the middle of term two, I hope that both parents and students have had the opportunity to check Progress Reports which were available on Compass at the end of last term. These provide an insight into the learner dispositions of your child and are a valuable monitor of the effort they are placing into consolidating their learning and making the most of educational opportunities in all their classes. As parents you are also able to view feedback comments for all assessments that your child has received, however for some teachers these may be absent due to industrial action taking place. All assessment scores, however, are available for viewing. In any event please be confident that teachers welcome any phone communication if you would like any details of your child’s progress.

Thank you to parents and caregivers for your continued support in ensuring that our senior students arrive at school on time. Please remind your teenagers that mobile phones are not permitted at school and need to be kept in student lockers for the day. In the past we have seen significant issues arise when students break these rules and then must have their devises confiscated for the day. Mobile phones disrupt learning and open the flood gates for possible breach of rules in classroom assessments. Under no circumstances are mobile phones permitted in classrooms. Strict VCAA penalties can result in assessment scores if students are in possession of these mobile devices during School Assessed Coursework (SACS).

Senior students are also required to attend Assembly sessions when these are scheduled in their weekly timetables. They are designed to provide an opportunity for the delivery of essential information and preparation regarding course work, exam preparation, and applying for tertiary places and career pathways. In recent weeks it has been disappointing to see parents sign their senior student out from college during these sessions. Assemblies are a compulsory component of their requirement of attendance at school.

The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) outlined the dates and times of the two General Achievement Tests (GAT) on Tuesday 16th June.  This year, as was the case in 2025 all students including those in Vocational Major pathway, (VM) are required to sit section A Literacy (Reading and Writing) and Numeracy from 9.00 -11.15, then only VCE students (not VM will complete section B – General Knowledge and Skills from 1.15 to 3.00 pm. Further information for students along with an opportunity to become acquainted with the types of questions will be provided during this week’s assemblies. All students need to be present for this assembly. It is essential that all students apply themselves fully in the GAT to achieving their very best end of year results. GAT can be used to moderate final exam results.

In the coming weeks many universities will begin to have their information weeks, which assist families by providing information regarding their campuses and courses offered. It is a great idea to attend these, as they provide insightful information about possible courses.  We understand that at times decisions about post-secondary schooling options may be overwhelming and daunting to students but please remember we are here to support you in this process.  As always, please do not hesitate to contact the college, ask for Ms. Charalambous, (Careers counsellor) for individual careers advice pertaining to your teenager.  Members of the senior school team and I are also happy to assist with any inquiries you may have about your child’s progress in senior school. 

In the next coming weeks Mid-year exams begin for students in years 11, 10 and 9. These will take place in the Hall and provide valuable exam experience for students, as managing both time and nerves is a skill we can develop through practice and understanding of how to study effectively. Exams also provide valuable results of achievement and for year 10 students can help inform subject selections into senior school. 

Stay warm as winter begins to bite.

Laura Forster.

Assistant Principal

Senior School