Senior School
Mr Matt Miller, Head of Senior School















St Patrick's College
Senior School
Mr Matt Miller, Head of Senior School
As we approach the conclusion of another successful academic year, the Senior School enters one of its busiest and most important periods. Over the coming weeks, students will be balancing examinations, Head Start, and preparations for 2027. We encourage families to continue supporting their sons through this demanding time by helping them maintain routines, prioritise organisation, and focus on finishing the year strongly.
Year 10 and Unit 2 examinations will commence this Friday and continue through until Thursday of Week 7. These examinations provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of course content and develop valuable examination skills that will support future VCE success.
Families can play an important role by ensuring students are aware of their examination schedule, arrive well prepared each day, and maintain healthy study habits, including adequate sleep, organisation, and revision. We encourage parents to continue supporting their sons through this busy and important period.
Students should focus on active revision strategies, including completing practice questions, reviewing feedback from assessments, and seeking clarification from teachers where required. Consistent preparation and effective time management remain the keys to examination success.
Following the conclusion of the VCE examination period, we look forward to celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026 at the Year 12 Valedictory Evening on Thursday, 19 November at the Ballarat Trotting Club.
This event provides an opportunity for students, families and staff to formally acknowledge the contribution our Year 12 students have made to the College community and to celebrate the completion of their secondary education.
Families are reminded that RSVPs close on Friday, 13 November. To assist with final event preparations, we ask that all responses be submitted by this date.
Immediately following examinations, students will commence the Head Start program. Head Start is an exciting time within the College as students begin their studies for the following year, meet new teachers, establish expectations, and start engaging with new course content.
It is important that students understand Head Start is not a period of casual or optional classes. Head Start represents the official commencement of the 2027 academic year, and all classes, coursework, expectations and learning activities are important.
Attendance, engagement and commitment during this period provide students with an invaluable opportunity to establish strong foundations for success next year. Those who approach Head Start positively and with purpose consistently gain significant benefits as they transition into their next level of study.
Should you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to reach out.