Melanie Denney
Assistant Principal
Dear Students and Families,
Monash Scholars
The Monash Scholars program provides a group of Year 10 students with the opportunity to join a network of high-ability students and access targeted programs delivered by Monash University. The Scholars have the opportunity to build relationships with other high-achieving peers, refine their ambitions, explore careers, and develop study skills during the final years of their secondary schooling. JMSS Monash Scholars were nominated by multiple teachers and demonstrated strong academic performance.
Congratulations to our Year 10 Scholars (from Left) pictured with our Principal Mr Andrew Chisholm:
- Ayaan GUPTA
- Hui Sing LIM
- Ansh BOSAMIA
- Andrew ZHAO
JMSS Supports the Australian Academy of Science “Restore Science” Campaign
JMSS has been working with the Australian Academy of Science to promote the “Restore Science” campaign, which urges decision-makers to invest in Australian science.
To spread awareness, a group of Year 10 students joined Prof Alan Duffy at Swinburne University of Technology for a series of segments on Channel 7’s Sunrise program. The students were treated to a variety of activities, including a virtual tour of the universe, a look at supersized 3D printing technology, and a chance to don motion-capture suits. A particular highlight of the show was seeing the students learn dance moves and tai chi from a pair of humanoid robots.
Back at JMSS a group of Year 12 students heard from Chelsea Cheney from the Australian Academy of Science, and Prof Ivan Marusic, Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Infrastructure) at the University of Melbourne, who shared his scientific journey to the field of fluid dynamics and then took questions from students.
Students also recorded clips supporting the Restore Science campaign aimed at encouraging investment in science in Australia. To see the first video from the campaign, head to this site or find it on the Australian Academy of Science social medai sites. For more information, and to support the campaing, visit https://restorescience.com.au/.
VCAA Exams and Trial Exam Period
The VCAA examination period for students undertaking Unit 3 and 4 studies begins in mid-October with a number of language examinations and continues through until mid-November. The first of the large-cohort examinations, English and EAL, will take place on Tuesday 27 October 2026. Students can access the full examination timetable on the VCAA website and will receive a personalised examination advice slip later in the year. Year 12 students have also been provided with a 2026 VCE Exams Navigator to support their preparation.
All JMSS students undertaking a Unit 3 and 4 subject, with the exception of Extended Investigation, are expected to attend the practice written examinations held during the second week of the September school holidays. These examinations provide students with valuable experience completing a full-length exam under authentic examination conditions and help them identify areas for targeted revision ahead of the VCAA examination period. An overview of the practice examination schedule is provided below, with more detailed information about timings and expectations to be shared in the coming weeks. Students are expected to arrive at school 45 minutes before the commencement of their examination and be dressed in full school uniform.
Application for Tertiary Pathways
Year 12s are also currently starting the process of applying for tertiary pathways through VTAC (and others, if applying interstate). Alongside this, applications for Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) and scholarships are also underway. We are fortunate to have a fantastic Careers Team that meets with each Year 12 student to guide them through what is involved. More information can be found in the slides shared with Year 12s and their families via Compass, as well as on the VTAC website: https://vtac.edu.au/. Students are reminded that any requests for supporting information (such as references and predicted ATARs) need to be discussed with the VCE Team prior to 4th September.
Melanie Denney
Assistant Principal