As we approach the end of Term 2, I would like to thank our students, families and staff for their contributions, support and partnership throughout the term. Together, we have continued to strengthen consistent practice across the college while supporting student learning, wellbeing and engagement.

The following highlights showcase some of the recent opportunities and experiences our students have participated in, as well as the ongoing work taking place across the college.

Mid- Year Concert - The Mid-Year Concert Series was held on Wednesday 10 June at the Clocktower Centre in Moonee Ponds, with 215 students participating in Concert One and 118 students participating in Concert Two. The concerts celebrated the talent, dedication and hard work of students involved in the College’s music program and provided an opportunity to showcase performers at all stages of their musical journey, from beginners learning a new instrument to senior students preparing for further study and careers in music. Audiences enjoyed a diverse range of performances that reflected the breadth of talent and varied nature within our student community. Performing before a live audience requires significant skill and confidence, and all students who took part should be extremely proud of their achievements. The concerts were a wonderful success and highlighted the strength of the college’s music program.

Year 12 Formal - The Year 12 Formal was held at San Remo Ballroom on Thursday 11 June and was a highly successful event. The evening provided an important opportunity for the Class of 2026 to celebrate their final year together, strengthen friendships and create lasting memories. It was pleasing to see students enjoying a well-earned break from their studies while contributing to a positive and inclusive atmosphere. The event was very well attended, reflecting the strong sense of connection and engagement within the Year 12 cohort.

Year 9 NAARM - During terms 2 and 4, year 9 students participate in a four-day NAARM program, which enables them to engage in a range of personal development activities in our local community and the Melbourne CBD, aligned with our school values and learning habits. Students will have the opportunity to apply and further strengthen these habits, building resilience, self-motivation, curiosity, communication, and creativity. On Friday 19 June, year 9 students engaged in community-based activities at the Clocktower in Moonee Valley and the Glenroy Community Hub in Merribek, with a focus on youth mental health and community connectedness. Activities included sessions delivered in partnership with the Pat Cronin Foundation, Blue Edge, Satori Meditation, Coco Chorus and the Black Dog Institute, as well as participation in a Silent Disco experience. We look forward to the remaining three NAARM days in Term 4, where students will visit some of Melbourne’s iconic landmarks, learn about the city’s history and culture, contribute to a community service project (Act of Kindness), and participate in workshops and activities that further develop their teamwork, problem-solving and communication skills.

Senior Wurundjeri Elder of the Kulin Nation, Aunty Joy Murphy Wandin AO, explains in her 'knowing Narrm' interview with Australia Post that “In the Woiwurrung (woi-a-rung) language of the Kulin nation, Naarm means ‘place’, It signifies that the area was an important meeting place for the language groups of the Kulin nation, a collective of five Aboriginal clans: Wurundjeri, Boonwurrung (boon-wuh-rung), Wathaurrung (wo-thuh-rong), Taungurung (tan-a-rong) and Dja DjaWrung (jah-jah-rong)."

Naarm is the traditional indigenous name for Melbourne. Here is a link to the ‘Mapping Aboriginal Melbourne Project’ video from the City of Melbourne Website

Year 10 and 11 Exam Week - During the final week of this term, Year 10 and Year 11 students are participating in the semester one exam program. These exams provide students with valuable experience in preparing for and completing formal assessments under examination conditions, helping them develop important study, time management and revision skills. For Year 10 students, the examination period offers an introduction to the expectations of senior secondary study, while for Year 11 students it provides an important opportunity to practise the assessment conditions they will encounter in Year 12 and external VCE examinations. Beyond assessing learning, the examination program supports students to build confidence, resilience and effective study habits as they prepare for future academic pathways.

GAT Day - The 2026 Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority General Achievement Test (VCAA GAT) was successfully conducted on Tuesday 16 June, with 442 students participating, representing an increase from 2025. Feedback from students and staff was overwhelmingly positive. Students appreciated the examination arrangements and commented on the positive atmosphere created by holding the GAT at school. The BBQ lunch was also very well received and contributed to a relaxed and supportive environment during break times. GAT supervisors Diane and Jen provided excellent feedback regarding the organisation of the day and the conduct of our students.

Disability Inclusion initiative - We have continued our work with the Inclusion Outreach Coaches as part of the Department of Education’s Disability Inclusion initiative, which provides additional support for students with disability and diverse learning needs in Victorian government schools. Throughout the term, the coaches have worked closely with staff by observing classes, interviewing teaching and ES staff, reviewing current practices and processes, and identifying opportunities to strengthen inclusive teaching and learning across the school. Inclusion Outreach Coaches are specialist educators who support schools to build staff capability, confidence and knowledge in creating inclusive learning environments through whole-school, evidence-informed approaches. We are currently finalising our priority areas for improvement and the associated professional learning program that will be implemented during Semester 2.

Facilities - During the term, we continued improvement works within the Music Block. The former weights room (which was moved next to the Gym), has been converted into a storage area and an additional instrumental music room, incorporating full-length glass doors and windows to improve visibility and support contemporary design principles commonly found in newer school facilities. A wide barn door was also installed to facilitate the movement of large musical equipment throughout the building. In addition, full-length glass doors were installed in other areas of the Music Block to enhance visibility and accessibility. Painting works and the installation of additional split-system units also continued across other areas of the school.

Working Bee - A big thank you to the families, students, and staff who supported our Working Bee on Sunday 21 June. We greatly appreciate the support of everyone who contributed their time, energy and enthusiasm. It was a wonderful display of community spirit, and opportunity to continue improving and caring for our school grounds and facilities together.

Professional Learning - A key focus this term has been our professional learning on predictable classroom routines and practices that support positive teacher–student relationships, high expectations and a calm, orderly learning environment. Staff have continued to strengthen the consistent implementation of agreed classroom routines across the college, helping to maximise learning time and create a positive and productive experience for students. Staff have also continued to participate in the ongoing literacy coaching with Misty Adoniou, with targeted professional learning provided to each faculty to support improved literacy outcomes and address identified learning needs.

I wish all students, families and staff a well-deserved, restful and enjoyable break, and look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 3 on Monday 13 July.

Sue Prosenica

Principal