From the Principal
September 2025 Newsletter
As we reach the conclusion of Term 3, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the achievements of our students and staff over the past nine weeks. This has been a busy and productive term, filled with learning, growth, and memorable experiences both inside and outside the classroom.
Our students have demonstrated great commitment to their studies, resilience in facing challenges, and pride in their school. From academic achievements to sporting successes, creative arts showcases and community events, Term 3 has truly highlighted the diverse talents within our school community.
I would like to thank our dedicated staff for their ongoing efforts in supporting every student to reach their potential. Their professionalism, care, and passion for education continue to inspire. I also extend my gratitude to families for your ongoing support, encouragement, and partnership in your child’s education. Together, we are shaping a strong and supportive school culture.
As we look ahead to Term 4, we encourage students to remain focused on their goals, make the most of the learning opportunities ahead, and finish the year with a strong sense of achievement. We look forward to celebrating end-of-year milestones and the successes of our students.
I wish all families a safe and restful holiday break, and I thank you once again for your continued support of our school.
Introducing Our New Student House Team Structure – 2026
At Yarrabing Secondary College, we are always looking for ways to strengthen how we support our students. After reviewing our current arrangements in 2025, we are excited to announce that from 2026 we will be introducing a new Vertical House Team structure.
Instead of having a single coordinator for each year level, students will now join one of four teams made up of around 2 classes from each year level from Year 7, 8, and Year 9. Each house team will have a core group of around 8 to10 core teachers and dedicated coordinators teaching and supporting your child’s learning as they progress through their years at Yarrabing. These teams will work closely with students and families as students’ progress through our school over six years, building strong, long-term relationships. This means staff will know each student well, follow their progress closely, and provide more consistent support throughout their time at the College. Research and data indicate that this house team structure allows students to build a stronger sense of connectedness and belonging in larger schools as they grow.
Another benefit of this approach is that students from different year levels will come together for team-based activities, helping build connections, teamwork, and a stronger sense of belonging across the school. Families will also have a clearer point of contact, making communication easier and more personal as our intention is to keep all the siblings in the same team.
We believe this new structure will make Yarrabing a more connected community where every student feels supported, known, and valued. In 2026, our students and staff will also have the exciting opportunity to name the four teams – a step that will mark the beginning of this new chapter for our College.
RUOK? Day
I thank all the staff and students for their time and effort on Thursday 11 September in helping the college run a successful RUOK? Day. It was fantastic to see our students greatly enjoying these engaging activities. Comments that have been made to me throughout the year by students and families highlight the enormous understanding, support and empathy displayed by the staff of the college towards our students and families.
On behalf of the College and School Council, I thank our college staff for their work, and our Year Level Coordinators and Student Support Staff in particular, for the effort and enthusiasm that they put into the RUOK? day and their attention to detail. We all know that 2025 continues to be a challenging year for everyone and this program is very much needed.
John Mitsinikos
College Principal