Senior School

VTAC Information Evening

Thank you to all families who attended our recent VTAC Information Evening. We hope it provided valuable insights into VTAC, preferences, ATAR, and scholarships. If you have any further questions or would like additional support, please contact Dr Kim Pappaluca or myself.

Unit 3-4 Trial and VCAA Examinations 

The Year 12 Trial Examination Period will be held from Monday, 15 September to Thursday, 18 September. These practice exams are an important opportunity for students to experience exam conditions and receive constructive feedback ahead of the final VCAA exams. Trial exams are compulsory for all students completing a Unit 3–4 subject. Please see the schedule below for details.

In addition, VCAA has published the 2025 external examination timetable. You can view it here: VCAA Exam Timetable

If they have not already, students should begin preparing for these exams in their study time at home or at school. Below are some general tips to support your son in his preparation for the trial and end of year examinations. I will provide more of these in future editions. 

1. Develop a Study Schedule

• Map out the weeks leading up to your exams.
• Allocate specific times for each subject, prioritising areas needing improvement.
• Include breaks and time for revision.

2.  Familiarise Yourself With Exam Conditions

• Complete practice papers under timed conditions.
• Use the VCAA sample and past exams to simulate the real experience.

• Work in a quiet space free from distractions.

   

3. Practice Active Recall and Application

• Test yourself regularly using past questions.
• Teach a topic to a peer or family member. If you can explain it clearly, you know it.

Year 12 Formal

The Year 12 Formal was a tremendous success. The students looked fantastic, and it was wonderful to see so many of them enjoying the dance floor. The event showcased the vibrant spirit of SPC. The formal is another great example of the joy that SPC offers. 

Year 12 End of Year Events

There are a number of special Year 12 events occurring next term, including Speech Day, Final Day, Final Day Mass, and Valedictory. Further communication will be sent out towards the end of this term with further details.

Year 12 SAC & Year 11 Assessment Task – Term 3

The Year 12 SAC & Year 11 Assessment Task Calendar for Term 3 is now available. Please see below.

Year 12 Outdoor Education Camp

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Year 12 Outdoor Education Camp at Mt Stirling. Mr Nathan Geaghan delivered an outstanding camp that allowed students to engage with key curriculum elements while experiencing the challenges and joys of snow camping. The boys took to cross-country skiing impressively—sometimes quite literally hitting the ground running! Congratulations to the 31 students and the four other dedicated staff members for making it a memorable experience. Read more below.

In Week 3 of this term, our Year 12 Outdoor and Environmental Studies students embarked on a memorable camp to Mt Stirling, which is one of the highlights of the Victorian Alps back-country. The adventure began with an overnight stay in Mansfield, where students prepared for the alpine conditions ahead.

On day two, we travelled up to Mt Stirling and settled into the tent site at the Alpine Camp. The highlight was undoubtedly the cross-country skiing lessons, where students learned new skills, challenged themselves physically, and embraced the unique alpine environment. Students also enjoyed the opportunity to use their new skills exploring the various tracks and ski runs of Mt Stirling.

Beyond the physical challenge, the camp provided opportunities to explore the beauty and fragility of Victoria’s alpine ecosystems, with plenty of discussion about the environmental factors that shape them. Despite some rain, spirits remained high, and students returned with stronger outdoor skills, new memories, and a deeper appreciation for our natural landscapes.

Many thanks to the staff who assisted on this experience. 

- Nathan Geaghan (OES Teacher)

For any questions or further support, please feel free to reach out: 

• Liam Davie and John Sullivan, Year 11 Coordinators
• Chris Gleeson and Shane Murphy, Year 12 Coordinators
• Andrew Chamings, VCE Coordinator