Assistant Principal Report
Miss Melissa Macdonald

Assistant Principal Report
Miss Melissa Macdonald


Term 3 has been a busy and exciting term across Melba College, with students embracing new learning opportunities, getting involved in activities and excursions, preparing for their future pathways, and supporting one another through a range of wellbeing initiatives.
From camps and excursions to sporting activities, subject counselling and exam preparation, there has been plenty happening across the school!
Planning for the Future: Year 10 Course Counselling
Our Year 10 students have been busy looking ahead to 2027, participating in course counselling and subject selection.
These important conversations have provided students with the opportunity to explore their interests, strengths and future aspirations while considering the subjects and pathways that will support their goals beyond Year 10.
It has been fantastic to see students engaging in thoughtful conversations about their future, and beginning to take greater ownership of their learning pathways.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Term 3 has provided several opportunities for students to extend their learning beyond the classroom and experience real-world applications of their subjects.
Our Year 12 Biology students participated in an excursion designed to support their preparation for their upcoming SAC, allowing them to further develop their understanding of key concepts and apply their knowledge in a practical setting.
Our Year 11 and 12 Psychology students enjoyed an excursion to the zoo, which provided them the opportunity to connect their classroom learning with real-world observations and experiences.
Students also participated in Girls in Trade, a program that aims to encourage our young women to explore careers and opportunities within the trades, challenging traditional perceptions around career pathways.
Our Science students headed to the Tech School, where they engaged in hands-on activities and explored science, technology and innovation in an authentic learning environment.
Our Year 11 and 12 Physics students also took their learning to new heights with a rock-climbing excursion, which provided them an engaging opportunity to apply their understanding of force, motion and energy while developing teamwork and resilience.
Camps & Adventure
Camps continue to be an important part of our students’ secondary school experience, providing opportunities for students to challenge themselves, build relationships and create lasting memories.
Our Year 12 camp, which was rescheduled, finally went ahead in Term 3 and provided students with a fantastic opportunity to spend time together as they approach the final stages of their schooling.
Our Year 7 & 8 camp had students stepping out of their comfort zone and challenging themselves with the activities. There were a lot of sleepy campers at the end of the camp!
Our Year 11 students embarked on an incredible Central Australia Camp, experiencing the unique landscapes, culture and history of Central Australia while developing independence, resilience and a stronger sense of community.
Sport, Activities & School Spirit
There has also been plenty of energy around the school through our Term 3 activities.
Our Year 7 and 8 students participated in Sport Round Robins, giving students the chance to compete, work as a team and demonstrate positive sporting behaviours. We hosted the basketball this year for year 7’s allowing staff to cheer on students during their non-teaching times.
Science Week also provided opportunities for students to engage with science in fun and interactive ways, encouraging curiosity, questioning and a love of learning.
Supporting Wellbeing & Individuality
Student wellbeing and creating a school environment where everyone feels respected, valued and included remain important priorities for us.
During Term 3, students and staff participated in Wear It Purple Day, celebrating diversity, inclusion and the importance of creating a supportive environment where everyone can be themselves.
We also recognised R U OK? Day, encouraging students to check in with their friends, start meaningful conversations and remember that asking “Are you OK?” can make a difference.
Bullying No Way Week provided another important opportunity for students to consider the impact of bullying, develop strategies for positive relationships and reinforce our shared responsibility to create a safe and respectful school community.
Preparing for the Final Stages of Year 12
Our Year 12 students have continued to work hard as they approach the final stages of their schooling.
Students have been completing practice exams in preparation for their final exams, using the opportunity to develop exam strategies and identify areas for further revision. They will be attending revision classes at school during the holidays to further improve their knowledge and be best prepared for the upcoming exams.
We also recognise an important milestone for our unscored Year 12 VCE students, who are finishing their formal schooling. We are incredibly proud of the persistence, growth and achievements of these students and wish them every success as they take their next steps beyond school.
Working Together: Parent, Teacher & Student Conferences
Term 3 also saw our Parent, Teacher and Student Conferences, providing an important opportunity for students, families and teachers to come together to discuss learning progress, achievement and future goals.
These conversations included discussion around students’ GPA results, areas of strength, opportunities for improvement and the steps students can take to continue making progress.
Strong partnerships between students, families and staff are an important part of student success, and we thank our families for their ongoing support and engagement.
Looking Ahead
As we move towards the final part of the year, there is plenty to look forward to. Term 3 has been a wonderful reminder of the many opportunities available to our students — both inside and outside the classroom.
We are incredibly proud of the way our students have challenged themselves, supported one another, embraced new experiences and continued to grow throughout the term.
A huge thank you to our students, staff and families for making Term 3 such a positive and memorable term across Melba College.