Principal Team Report

This term has given us plenty of opportunities to see the talent, creativity and commitment of our students across the College. From the Art and Technology Show and Spring Soirée, to our Year 12 students beginning their VCAA examinations, it has been great to see students applying themselves, stepping outside their comfort zones and taking pride in what they can achieve.These opportunities are an important part of school life. They allow students to develop skills and confidence beyond the classroom, whether that is performing in front of an audience, exhibiting a piece of work, designing and creating something, or working towards an important academic goal. I would also like to acknowledge the staff, families and students who contribute to these opportunities. A great deal of work takes place behind the scenes to make these events happen, and it is pleasing to see that effort come together to benefit our students and our wider College community.

The Hill Art and Technology Show

Our Art and Technology Show was a great showcase of the work our students have produced across Art and Technology. There was a broad range of work on display, from 3D-printed pieces demonstrating precision and design skills, through to landscape paintings, floral works and detailed portraiture.

The variety of work was a real highlight. Each student brought their own ideas and interests to their work, and the exhibition gave our community an opportunity to see the time, skill and effort that had gone into each piece.

I congratulate all students who exhibited their work. It takes commitment to develop a piece from an idea through to a finished product and then put it on display for others to see.

Thank you to our Art and Technology staff for the work involved in coordinating the exhibition. I would also like to acknowledge the staff and students who helped prepare the Learning and Wellbeing Centre, set up the exhibition and pack everything away afterwards. There is always a significant amount of work behind an event like this, and I appreciate everyone's contribution.

Spring Soirée

Our Spring Soirée provided another opportunity for students to share their talents with the College community.

There was a strong range of performances throughout the evening and it was pleasing to see the confidence our students showed on stage. Performing in front of an audience takes preparation and commitment, and our students should be proud of the way they approached the evening.

Thank you to our music staff and everyone involved in organising the event, as well as the families and friends who came along to support our performers. It was a great night and a good opportunity to come together as a College community.

Year 12 Examinations

Our Year 12 VCAA examinations commenced on Tuesday 27 October, with English marking the beginning of this important period for our graduating students.

After many months of preparation, our Year 12 students have approached their examinations with focus and maturity. It was particularly pleasing to hear from examiners that our students were one of the friendliest cohorts they had encountered. That is a credit to our students and says a great deal about the culture we have built at Wheelers Hill Secondary College.

Our Year 12 students have worked hard in preparation for their examinations and I encourage them to continue to approach each examination with confidence and a clear plan.

While VCE is an important part of the final year of school, it is important to remember that it is not the destination. A student's examination results do not define who they are or determine the full extent of what they can achieve in the future.

As the examinations continue, I encourage students to:

Practise under exam conditions. Use timed practice examinations to become familiar with the format and improve time management.
Study actively. Complete practice questions, test yourself and explain concepts rather than simply rereading notes.
Spread out your revision. Regular study over a period of time is more effective than trying to cover everything at the last minute.
Learn from your practice. Review mistakes and use them to identify where further work is needed.
Look after yourself. Get enough sleep, eat well, take regular breaks and make time to switch off from study.

To our graduating cohort of 2026, I wish you all the best for the examinations ahead. Trust the work you have put in, take each examination as it comes and remember that there is a great deal more ahead of you than what happens in these next few weeks.

Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day is an opportunity for us to pause and remember those who have served and sacrificed their lives in times of war and conflict.

At 11 am on 11 November, we will observe a minute's silence to honour those who have served our country and to reflect on the impact of conflict on individuals, families and communities.

The red poppy remains an important symbol of remembrance and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served. Red poppies and commemorative pins will be available for purchase at the College for those who would like to show their support.

I encourage our College community to take a moment on Remembrance Day to reflect and remember.

The 2027 Production – Can You Guess?

There is plenty of speculation about what our 2027 College Production will be, but the Production Team isn't giving the answer away just yet.

There will be a series of clues released over the coming weeks, so keep an eye on our College social media and watch out for some unexpected hints from staff.

Put your detective skills to work, see if you can piece the clues together and work out what will be coming to the stage in 2027 before the official reveal.

Yeneo Pousoulis

Acting Assistant Principal