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Principal's Update

As we come to the conclusion of the 2025 school year, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire Lowanna College community—our students, staff, families, School Council and community partners—for your continued support, trust and collaboration throughout the year.

 

2025 has been a year of reconnection, renewal and collective effort. Since joining Lowanna College as Acting Principal in October 2024, I have been privileged to witness firsthand the strength, resilience and community spirit that define this school. I have seen students embrace challenge and growth, staff work tirelessly to support learning and wellbeing and families engage with warmth and genuine care for the future of their children. These qualities sit at the heart of what makes Lowanna College such a special place.

 

This will be my final newsletter update as I conclude my time at Lowanna College at the end of this year, having accepted the principal role at Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College, commencing in 2026. 

 

In a relatively short period of time, I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together. We have strengthened shared expectations, refreshed our instructional focus, improved communication and organisational structures and reinforced the importance of strong community partnerships. These improvements are a direct reflection of the dedication, professionalism and commitment of our staff, alongside the perseverance of our students and the support of our families.

Lowanna College has a bright future. It is a school rich in potential, driven by passionate educators and remarkable young people. I am grateful to have been part of its story and look forward to watching its continued success from afar.

 

VCE results were released on Thursday 11 December and we are delighted to celebrate the achievements of our students. The 2025 VCE results are a testament to the hard work, perseverance and commitment demonstrated by our students throughout the year. Their achievements have opened a wide range of exciting opportunities—whether university, TAFE, apprenticeships or other meaningful pathways. We proudly congratulate our 2025 College Dux, Zara Fussell, who achieved an outstanding ATAR of 95.15. Zara not only attained exceptional academic results but consistently exemplified our core values of Respect, Integrity, Determination, Growth and Excellence. These qualities will undoubtedly serve her well as she steps confidently into the next chapter of her journey. 

We also congratulate our Runner-Up Dux, Phoenix Chak, on an excellent performance.

This year, we celebrate three 40+ study scores:

  • Zara Fussell:
    • 42 in General Mathematics
    • 43 in Biology
    • 43 in Psychology

 

Overall VCE performance remained in line with recent trends:

  • Mean study score across all subjects: 24.5 (26.2 in 2024; 24.4 in 2023)
  • English mean study score: 25.0 (26.5 in 2024; 24.6 in 2023)

 

Congratulations to all our Year 12 students for their diligence and resilience in what was a more challenging year than average. Their results are a true reflection of their determination and perseverance.

I extend my sincere thanks to the dedicated staff who supported all students—not only throughout their VCE journey but throughout their learning journey at Lowanna College. 

 

As we close the 2025 school year, it is pleasing to reflect on a period marked by strong achievement, renewed energy and a shared commitment to our values of Respect, Integrity, Determination, Growth and Excellence.

 

We were delighted to host the Statewide Transition Day recently, welcoming our incoming 2026 Year 7 cohort on Tuesday 9 December. Their enthusiasm, confidence and maturity were evident and it was wonderful to see them consistently demonstrate our college values. I commend the Junior School team, along with our Administration staff and transition coordinators, for creating such a warm, organised and supportive experience for students and families.

 

I extend my sincere thanks to School Council for their partnership, stewardship and ongoing support. Together, we have continued to strengthen culture, enhance learning opportunities and build confidence in Lowanna College within the wider community. I encourage families to consider joining our School Council in 2026 to help shape Lowanna College into the future.

 

Thank you once again to our entire community for your trust, support and shared commitment to ensuring Lowanna College remains a strong, aspirational school.

 

I wish everyone a safe, restful and happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year.

 

Warm regards,

Julia Niamh  

Acting College Principal