Student Learning & Growth 

At this point of Term 4, our Year 12 students at Marist-Sion College stand at a defining moment. — the culmination of years of learning, growth and friendship. This is a time to look back with gratitude and forward with purpose. The coming weeks are both a celebration and a call to focus — to finish strong, to study with intent and to approach the final exams with faith and confidence.

Their final day of formal schooling concludes on Tuesday 21st October with the Mass of Gratitude on Gratitude Day, followed by the first VCAA Written Examination – English – on the 28th October when the focus shifts to revision and exam preparation. The weeks ahead are an opportunity to live out our College values in action. Truth calls you to prepare with honesty and discipline — to know what you need to revise and to dedicate time to it wholeheartedly. Charity reminds you to support others, share notes, and lift up classmates who may be struggling. And Constancy encourages perseverance, to stay steady, even when tired, anxious, or overwhelmed.

Effective study is not just about how long you work, but how wisely you do it. Begin each day with a plan. Break your revision into short, focused sessions of 40–50 minutes with clear goals. Use active study methods — practise past exam questions, create mind maps, summarise key concepts and explain topics aloud as if teaching someone else. Test yourself regularly and focus on areas of weakness, not just familiar topics. Most importantly, maintain balance — eat well, get enough sleep, and make time for movement and rest. A calm, rested mind will always perform better.

As exams approach, it’s normal to feel nervous — but remember, nerves are simply energy you can channel into focus. Visualise success: picture yourself walking into the exam room prepared and confident. Use positive self-talk to quiet doubts: remind yourself, I know this. I can do this. I am ready. Breathe deeply, take each question one at a time, and trust your preparation.

Exams are a test of learning, but also of mindset and resilience. You have worked hard and you are ready. As you move through these final weeks, hold close the Marist-Sion spirit: faith that grounds you, truth that guides you, charity that connects you and constancy that sustains you.

Once all exams are complete and all Assessments have been submitted, the 21st November is a time to celebrate with the Graduation Ceremony and Valedictory Dinner. 

To the Class of 2025 — finish well, study wisely, and believe in the person you have become. May God bless your efforts, calm your hearts, and fill you with confidence as you take this final step forward. Your future is bright, and your community is proud.

Ms Alysoun Smalley

Deputy Principal: Student Learning Culture and Growth