Senior School Principal

The term is progressing steadily, with assessments now underway across a range of subjects. There has also been a clear focus on careers, supporting students to consider future options and begin thinking more deliberately about their next steps. The 2027 subject selection process will commence at the start of Term 3, and families will receive further information about this in the coming weeks.

Year 11 Excursion – VCE and Careers Expo

On Friday 15 May, all Year 11 VCE students attended the annual VCE and Careers Expo at the Melbourne Showgrounds. This excursion forms an important part of our careers program, giving students the opportunity to explore a wide range of post‑school pathways in one central location.

With more than 150 exhibitors present including universities, TAFEs, private training providers, GAP year and student exchange organisations, and suppliers of VCE resources, students were able to gather information, speak directly with representatives, and collect materials to support their future planning. A number of presentations were also available throughout the morning, offering further insight into study and training options.

Following their time at the Expo, students travelled to Deakin University for a BBQ lunch and a guided campus tour. This provided a valuable chance to experience a university environment firsthand and ask questions about courses, facilities, and student life.

The excursion was a highly worthwhile experience that helps broaden students’ understanding of the many pathways available after their studies at Norwood. Hopefully it will prompt further research and encourage students to participate in upcoming university and TAFE Open Days.

Thank you to the Careers team for organising this event and supporting our students as they begin to consider their future study and employment options.

Year 10 Incursion – Shape Your Destiny

On Wednesday 20 May, Year 10 students participated in an incursion delivered by Success Integrated titled Shape Your Destiny. The program introduced students to a range of ideas and strategies aimed at supporting their transition into the senior years of schooling. Throughout the session, the presenter discussed topics such as motivation, study habits, personal responsibility, and the importance of setting realistic goals.

Students were guided through several reflective activities that encouraged them to consider their current approach to learning and how small adjustments may support their progress over the next few years. The session also provided an opportunity for students to think about their future pathways and the skills they may need as they move toward VCE, VCE VM, or other post‑school options.

The incursion provided students with a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect, and consider the expectations and challenges they may encounter in Years 11 and 12.

Peak Assessment Period and Upcoming Exams

As we move further into Term 2, students are now entering the peak assessment period, with many subjects completing major coursework tasks and SACs. This is an important time for students to stay organised, manage their workload carefully, and seek support when needed.

Students should also be preparing for their mid‑year exams now. These exams provide a valuable opportunity to consolidate learning, practise exam‑style questions, and identify areas that may need further revision.

We encourage all students to adopt effective study habits during this period, including:

• Creating a realistic study timetable

• Breaking revision into manageable chunks

• Reviewing class notes regularly

• Completing practice questions or past papers

• Asking teachers for clarification or extra support

• Maintaining healthy routines, including sleep and breaks

As a guide, it is recommended that students in Years 9 and 10 spend between 45 and 60 minutes per school day completing a combination of homework, study, and revision, while students in Years 11 and 12 should aim to spend between 1 and 3 hours per weeknight on a similar combination of tasks.

Families can support students by helping them establish a quiet study space and encouraging balanced routines. If you would like more information about study skills, the handbook linked below offers a range of tips and tricks to help develop successful study habits in the senior years.

We wish all students the very best as they work through assessments and begin preparing for exams. With consistent effort and good study habits, this can be a productive and rewarding time in their learning.