Assistant Principal  -Curriculum

Dear Parents, Caregivers, Staff, Students, and Friends,

As we reach the conclusion of Term 3, I want to take a moment to reflect on the busy and eventful weeks we’ve had. This newsletter focuses on a significant highlight: the graduation of our Year 12 class of 2024. I’d also like to acknowledge the Year 11 students who, by the time you read this, will be stepping into their roles as Year 12 students for 2025.

Celebrating Year 12 2024

What an inspiring week it has been as we celebrated our Year 12 class of 2024! The final Year 12 Mass last night and today’s Graduation Assembly were truly moving ceremonies, marking the end of their formal schooling.

I had the honour of serving as the MC for today’s ceremony, and I would like to share a portion of the script that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of our school and the achievements of this remarkable class:

“Today, we gather to celebrate a significant milestone: the graduation of the Class of 2024. This assembly is not just a farewell; it is an opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude for the hard work and dedication these students have shown throughout their time at O’Connor. We will honour their academic, cultural, sporting, and community achievements, which have enriched not only our college but also the broader community.

The true measure of a school’s success lies not just in numbers and statistics, but in the quality of its graduates as individuals. So, how do we define quality and success? I believe it is reflected in the positive contributions these young people will make to society, helping to foster a future that is prosperous, progressive, and inclusive. Over the years, our O’Connor graduates have gone on to achieve remarkable things on both global and national stages, as well as becoming vital members of our local community—engaging in various roles across industries, higher education, and essential services. I genuinely believe that these Year 12 students are ready to “make the world a better place”.

To the parents of the Year 12 graduates, we thank you for entrusting us with your children’s education. Your partnership has been invaluable, and we deeply appreciate the support you’ve provided throughout their journey. I would also like to extend my gratitude to the Year 12 teachers and all staff members at O’Connor. Your dedication and commitment have played a crucial role in shaping these students into the remarkable individuals they are today.

Let us take this moment to celebrate not just the achievements of our graduates, but also the hope-filled futures that lie ahead of them.”

— Stephen Chapman, Year 12 Graduation Assembly Script, 27/9/24

Looking Ahead: Year 12 2025

During today’s Graduation Assembly, we introduced a meaningful addition to our traditions: the ceremonial handing over of Student Leader responsibilities from the 2024 leaders to the incoming leaders for 2025. Each outgoing leader presented an icon symbolising this transfer of responsibility. The new leaders will be officially commissioned and receive their badges in Week 2 of next term, but their contributions have already begun.

The new House Captains ran engaging activities today for all students, earning house points toward next year’s House Cup. Additionally, Creative Arts Captain Maya Teege and Faith and Service Captain Freya Giles created a poster for the outgoing Year 12 students to share their advice with the class of 2025 - a lovely gesture that fosters community spirit.

Important Reminder for Year 11 Students

As we prepare for Term 4, I want to remind our current Year 11 students that they have the opportunity to adjust their course load from a minimum of 12 units to 10 units as they transition into Year 12. Several Extension subjects will also begin, contributing an additional unit each. Please find the form for these changes below:

2025 Year 12 HSC Subject Change Form

Forms must be returned before we can make any changes to course enrollments.

Thank you for your continued support of our wonderful college.

Best regards,

Mr. Stephen Chapman

Assistant Principal - Curriculum

"Never stop learning; for when we stop learning, we stop growing." — Jack Lewman