Leading Teachers Report

Beginning of Term 2:

Junior School Report

Our students have made an excellent start to Term 2, demonstrating diligence and commitment to both their classroom learning and homework responsibilities. This is a particularly busy period, with many subject areas conducting assessment tasks throughout the month.

Year 8 students have commenced preparations for their upcoming mid-year examinations, which will begin on June 13. The examination timetable will be released shortly. Year 7 students will continue with their regular classes during this period, as they do not participate in mid-year exams.

With a range of activities and assessments taking place both inside and outside the classroom, it is essential that students remain organised and mindful of important due dates to ensure their ongoing success.

Recently, our Year 7 Leader, Mr Bowman, and Year 8 Leader, Ms Heppel, held year level assemblies where it was wonderful to see many students recognised with HRRRT certificates. These certificates celebrate students who have exemplified our College values of High Expectations, Respect, Responsibility, Resilience, and Teamwork. During the assemblies, our leaders also emphasised the importance of regular school attendance and punctuality to class.

Earlier this term, we were fortunate to enjoy beautiful weather for our House Cross Country event at Karkarook Park. It was fantastic to see so many Years 7 and 8 students participating enthusiastically, either running or walking the course to earn valuable points for their houses. I encourage all students to take part in school events such as these to strengthen their sense of connection and belonging within the College.

As we move further into Term 2, I would like to remind all students that the winter uniform is now required, which includes the school tie and blazer to be worn to and from school. Daily attendance is a cornerstone of academic progress, and students are reminded that they must arrive at school by 8:35 am each morning. Additionally, students should ensure they bring the necessary equipment to every class, including a charged laptop, school planner, pencil case, and notebook.

Thank you for your continued support in fostering a positive and productive learning environment for all our students.

George Tzimourtas

Director of Students: Junior School

Middle School Report

As we approach the middle of the term, it's a great time to touch base with some key messages for our Year 9 and 10 students. We continue to work closely with students to ensure their academic and personal growth, and we'd like to share some important reminders and updates with you.

Attendance: A Key to Success

One of the strongest predictors of academic achievement and mental well-being is regular school attendance. There is a clear link between consistent attendance and improved academic outcomes. Students who attend school regularly are better equipped to stay on top of their learning and maintain positive mental health. Missing school can lead to falling behind, which in turn can cause stress and anxiety. We encourage all families to support their child's attendance to ensure they are fully engaged in their learning journey. If there are any issues that might impact attendance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the year level leader or wellbeing team.

Work Experience Opportunities

Our Year 10 students have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience, and we want to encourage them to take full advantage of these chances. Ms. Effie Patti has been regularly posting work experience opportunities on our Compass newsfeed, and we urge students to check it regularly. Work experience helps build important life skills and can provide insight into potential career paths. We encourage all students to explore these opportunities.

Key Events

So far this term, we’ve had some exciting events. It’s been great to watch our students actively participating in these.

School Cross Country: The brilliant autumn weather hung around for our school cross country day. It was filled with house spirit by students that exemplified our college values. It was impressive to watch a number of our students trying their best to run the long distance course. A special acknowledgement to our middle school winners who progressed to the next round.
IDAHOBIT Day: Our students showed incredible support for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) Day. It was impressive to watch several of our young people support inclusiveness and respect for all members of our community.
Elevate Program: All of our year 9 and 10 students participated int eh Elevate study skills program, which provided valuable study skills and strategies in preparation for our upcoming exams. We hope these students have helped students to feel more confident as they begin their preparations.

We wish all students the best of luck as they prepare for exams. With consistent effort and a positive attitude, success is within reach.

As we move further into the term, we continue to support our students in all aspects of their learning and well-being. We appreciate your ongoing support and encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Looking Ahead

Below are key dates for the remainder of Term 2:

Friday 23rd May – Monash Division Cross Country
Monday 9th June – Kings Birthday Weekend
Friday 13th June – 23rd June: Exam period
June 17th – GAT (VCE students only)
Friday 20th June – 26th June: North Queensland Camp
Tuesday 24th June – Report Writing Day (Pupil free day)
Monday 30th June – Semester 2 Begins
Friday 4th July – Performing Arts Carnival / Last Day of Term

Travis Knox

Director of Students: Middle School

Senior School Report

Year 12

Our Year 12 students at South Oakleigh College have made a confident and purposeful start to Term 2, embracing the challenges and responsibilities of their final year with maturity and enthusiasm. Across all subject areas, students have demonstrated a strong commitment to their learning. Many are seeking feedback, engaging in study sessions, and actively participating in class discussions, setting a high standard for themselves and their peers – which I implore them to continue doing. Their focus on achieving their personal best reflects a growing sense of ownership over their education and future pathways.

The highlight of the term thus far, was the presentation of their much-anticipated Year 12 jackets on Thursday 15th May. This milestone marks a special moment in their school journey—a symbol not only of leadership and seniority but also of a sense of community. Our Year 12 students were presented their jackets by some of our youngest college members, our Year 7 students, as a way of celebrating their progress and the strong bonds they have formed over the years.

We are proud of the start our Year 12 students have made to Term 2 and look forward to the continued growth, determination, and spirit they will bring throughout the term. As always, we thank parents, carers, families and staff for their ongoing support in helping our senior students thrive.

Blake Cochrane – Year 12 Leader

Year 11

Welcome Back to Term 2 – Year 11

Welcome back to Term 2!We hope everyone had a restful and recharging break. This term brings new challenges and opportunities, and we encourage all Year 11 students to start strong by setting clear goals, staying organised, and staying connected, set up some study groups to help each other and keep open communication with your teachers.

Term 2 is a vital time for year 11s, coursework continues to build, and assessments will come up quickly—so it’s important to keep on top of due dates and ask for support when needed. With Mid-year exams commencing 13th June to 23rd June, now is the time to start revising and making your study notes.

We’ll also be continuing with important planning for our 2025 year 11 Formal, so please keep your eyes out for details and tickets coming out soon. The year 11 formal committee have been working tirelessly to fundraise for some fun activities to do on the night.

Let’s make Term 2 a productive and positive one!

Kasey Boxell – Year 11 Leader

It has been a busy and exciting time in the Senior School as we continue to support our students through key milestones and valuable learning opportunities.

We recently celebrated a special tradition at the Year 12 Jacket Ceremony, where our Year 7 students had the honour of presenting our Year 12 cohort with their official Year 12 jackets. This meaningful event highlights the strong sense of community across year levels and recognises the leadership role our senior students play within the school. It was a proud moment for all involved and a reminder of the journey our Year 12 students have taken since their own Year 7 days.

Earlier in the term, VCE students participated in a Hack Study Skills session, designed to equip them with practical and effective strategies for managing School Assessed Coursework (SACs), preparing for exams, and developing a positive study routine. Students walked away with tools they can implement immediately to improve focus, time management, and academic performance.

Looking ahead, a reminder that the General Achievement Test (GAT) will take place on Tuesday 17th of June. All students enrolled in one or more VCE or scored VCE VET Unit 3–4 sequences are required to sit the GAT. The GAT plays an important role in assessing general knowledge and skills .Further information about the day’s schedule and expectations will be communicated shortly.

Finally, a huge congratulations to Stefan Krozian, who recently competed in the National Powerlifting Competition. Stefan placed 4th overall, an outstanding achievement at such a high level of competition. Well done!

Jessica Ferguson

Director of Students: VCE and VCE VM