Senior School Update

Assistant Principal's Update

Rachael White

Senior School Update 

As we reach the end of another busy and successful term, we would like to acknowledge the outstanding achievements, experiences and opportunities our Senior School students have embraced throughout Term 2. 

Year 11 & 12 VCE (ATAR) 

Our first Senior School Assembly for the term celebrated several significant achievements. We were particularly proud to see Lara Bassingthwaighte presented with the prestigious SWAN Bursary. The SWAN Bursary was established over 20 years ago to recognise and mentor exceptional young women within our local community. The program supports young women who demonstrate leadership, commitment to social justice, and a desire to make a positive contribution to society. Congratulations, Lara, on this wonderful achievement. 

Congratulations also to Isiah Gener, who achieved 1st place in Triple Jump at the Southern Peninsula Division District Athletics Championships. Isiah now awaits confirmation of the next stage of competition. We wish him all the best and look forward to following his progress. 

Our Year 12 students recently attended the Teenagers Road Accident Group (TRAG) presentation at Mt Martha alongside senior students from several Peninsula schools. The presentation provided a powerful and emotional insight into the impact of road trauma on individuals, families and communities. Students heard firsthand accounts from emergency service personnel, siblings and parents affected by road trauma, all reinforcing the importance of safe driving and positive decision-making. The key message throughout the day was simple but powerful: Drive4Life. 

Congratulations to all Year 11 and 12 VCE students who recently completed their English Oral Presentations. Presenting in front of peers and assessment panels requires courage, preparation and confidence. Students should be proud of the effort they invested into this important assessment task. 

In June, students undertaking Unit 3 and 4 studies completed the annual General Achievement Test (GAT). Approximately 100 students participated, completing sections focused on writing, literacy, numeracy and general knowledge. We commend all students for their preparation, focus and exemplary behaviour throughout the session. 

Year 11 & 12 VCE Vocational Major (VM) 

As we approach the mid-year break, our Year 11 and Year 12 VCE VM students have reached several significant milestones. Students have successfully completed Unit 1 and Unit 3 and have now transitioned into Unit 2 and Unit 4 studies. This marks an important point in their learning journey and reflects the hard work and commitment shown throughout the semester. 

Year 11 and 12 VCE VM students also participated in the General Achievement Test (GAT) this term. We congratulate students on their focus, resilience and positive attitude throughout the assessment process. 

Our Year 12 students have continued pathway planning conversations with Bec and Nat from the Careers Team, exploring post-school opportunities and future goals. In Term 3, our Year 11 students will begin their own individual career counselling sessions. These discussions provide valuable opportunities for students to explore career pathways, identify interests and strengths, and begin planning for life beyond school. 

Thank you to all our Year 11 and 12 VM students for your dedication and commitment throughout Semester 1. We look forward to seeing your continued growth and success in Semester 2. 

Year 10 

Term 2 has provided our Year 10 students with a range of exciting learning experiences beyond the classroom. 

Students have travelled far and wide, visiting Australian Catholic University (ACU), Deakin University, local trade employers, the Korn Ferry corporate offices in Melbourne's CBD, and Werribee Open Range Zoo. For many students, these experiences offered valuable insight into future pathways and opportunities. 

University immersion days allowed students to explore potential courses and careers while participating in activities such as mock trials, engineering challenges and nursing workshops. These experiences provided students with a firsthand look at tertiary education and the opportunities available to them after secondary school. 

Students who participated in the Australian Business and Community Network (ABCN) Interview to Impress Program at Korn Ferry worked alongside corporate mentors to develop their interview, communication and networking skills. Through mock interviews and reflective conversations, students gained confidence and practical skills that will support future employment opportunities. 

With Course Conversations currently underway and 2027 approaching quickly, planning for Year 11 pathways is becoming an important focus. During the holiday period, Semester 2 Year 10 core and elective classes will be aligned in preparation for next semester. Students are encouraged to regularly check Compass for any timetable updates and continue engaging with the opportunities available in Term 3 to support informed pathway decisions. 

Careers and Pathways 

Year 12 Career Planning 

Congratulations to all Year 12 students who have completed their individual careers meetings. It has been fantastic to see students thoughtfully considering their future pathways and making informed decisions based on their interests, strengths and aspirations. Students are encouraged to continue seeking support from the Careers Team as plans evolve throughout the year. 

Year 10 Career Meetings 

Year 10 students who have not yet completed their one-on-one careers meeting are encouraged to book an appointment as soon as possible. These discussions play a critical role in supporting informed subject selections and pathway planning. 

Year 11 Career Conversations 

Year 11 students should begin preparing for their career planning meetings in Term 3. Any urgent subject changes should be discussed promptly to ensure students remain on track with their chosen pathways. 

VTAC Preparation 

Year 12 VCE students will soon begin working closely with the Careers Team to establish VTAC accounts, explore tertiary course options, apply for SEAS and scholarships, investigate early entry programs and develop pathway plans. 

We strongly encourage all Year 12 students considering tertiary study to attend university and TAFE Open Days throughout the year. These events provide invaluable opportunities to explore courses, campuses and career options firsthand. 

VET and Structured Workplace Learning 

Year 10 students intending to undertake a VCE VM pathway next year should begin familiarising themselves with available VET options. All required paperwork should be submitted to the Careers Team by the end of Term 3, although some adjustments can still be made later in the year. 

Students are also encouraged to begin organising potential Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) placements for 2027 to ensure they are prepared to commence placement opportunities from the beginning of next year. 

Important Reminder: Any Year 11 or 12 VCE VM student who has not yet secured a Structured Workplace Learning placement should speak with the Careers Team as soon as possible. 

Students should continue to monitor their Teams channels regularly for updated careers and pathway information, particularly Year 12 students. 

All students are reminded that Ponder Plans (CAPS), including updated resumes, must be completed and reviewed by the Careers Team by Term 4 as part of the pathway sign-off process. 

Upcoming Senior School Events 

14 July – Year 11 VCE VM First Aid Micro-Credential (Onsite) 

21 July – Year 10 University of Melbourne Creative Directions Day 

22 July – Senior School ABCN Interview to Impress Program (Korn Ferry)