Senior School

Year 12 SAC Calendar

The Year 12 SAC Calendar is attached and provides an overview of key assessment dates for the term ahead. It’s a helpful tool for students as they plan their workload and manage competing demands.

At home, you can support your son by encouraging him to stay organised, plan ahead for SACs, and keep on top of his study rather than leaving things to the last minute. Regular check-ins can make a big difference during busy periods.

Year 10 Night of Homelessness – Thursday, 28 May

Our Year 10 students will take part in the Night of Homelessness on Thursday 28 May, beginning at 7pm and concluding at 7:30am the following morning.

This is always a powerful experience. Students will hear from guest speakers, including the Ballarat Soup Bus, and take part in activities designed to give them a small insight into the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. The evening focuses on building empathy, awareness, and gratitude.

General Achievement Test (GAT) – Wednesday, 17 June

The GAT will take place on Wednesday 17 June for all students completing a Unit 3–4 subject. This includes some Year 11 students, as well as those undertaking the VCE-VM pathway.

While the GAT doesn’t directly count towards a study score, it plays an important role in ensuring that VCE results are fair and accurate. It’s important that students approach the day seriously and give their best effort.

For all students not sitting the GAT, this will be a student free day. 

Year 10 Work Experience – Term 2, Week 10

All Year 10 students will undertake Work Experience in Week 10 of Term 2. This is a compulsory part of the program and provides a valuable opportunity for students to explore the world of work and possible career pathways.

We ask families to support their sons in finding a suitable placement. If assistance is needed, our Careers and Pathways team is available to help. All paperwork has been distributed in Homeroom and is also attached.

Year 10 and 11 End of Semester Examinations

Year 10 and 11 exams will take place in Week 7, following a similar structure to previous years. Further details and timetables will be shared in the coming weeks.

In the lead-up to exams, it’s important that students establish consistent study routines. One of the most effective strategies is retrieval practice — actively recalling information (for example, using flashcards or practice questions) rather than just re-reading notes. This helps strengthen memory and leads to better understanding, especially compared to cramming.

Semester 2 Subject Change Requests (Years 10 & 11)

Students in Years 10 and 11 will have the opportunity to request subject changes for Semester 2 from Monday, 18 May. All requests must be submitted by Monday, 1 June at 4pm.

For most students, a subject change won’t be necessary. In Year 11, changes are generally limited to adjustments within English or Mathematics streams unless there are exceptional circumstances.

The process involves speaking with the Year Level Leader (by arranging a meeting via email) and submitting a completed form with all required signatures, including parent/guardian approval.

Please note that changes are not guaranteed due to timetabling and class sizes. Once approved, students are expected to remain in the new subject for the duration of Semester 2. We encourage families to have conversations at home and seek advice from staff to ensure any decisions are well considered.

Should you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to reach out.

• Matt Miller, Head of Senior School
• John Sullivan and Rebekah Curtis Lester, Year 10 Leaders 
• Liam Davie and Steve Biggin, Year 11 Leaders 
• Chris Gleeson and Shane Murphy, Year 12 Leaders 
• Andrew Chamings, VCE Coordinator