Senior School
Year 12
Term 1 has come and gone so quickly which leaves only 2 full terms of teaching and learning for our Year 12 students. Scary, exciting, unknown are a few terms used by our final year students. To assist them with their preparation in anticipation for their SACs and final examination, we were pleased to have Elevate and Success integrated come and present in the Centre for Academic Excellence.
Elevate focussed on a session titled ‘Ace your exams’ whereby they provided students with expertise examples of common mistakes students make when preparing for an assessment or exam and how to change the narrative so that they do not make them. Elevate also provided students with a 7-step strategy to best prepare specifically for examinations, before asking students to set their own Year 12 VCE goals.
Success integrated reinforced these ideas by looking at ways to change your mindset from a negative and fear based one to one that is confident and positive. This session also touched on time management skills and ways to make the most out of the little time you have. It provided students with an easy rad map to achieve their B.E.S.T
From Term 2 we will be issuing privileges for our Year 12 students so that they will be able to depart early at the end of their lessons. Should students access these privileges the way they are intended, we will look to issue another set of privileges mid Term 2. These are to slowly give students the experience of independence that they will have when they leave high school. One of the many exciting parts of Year 12 is receiving their Leaver’s Jackets.
This year we were able to get them to students in week 5, an all time record for Oakleigh Grammar. It was an exciting day when students got to don their jackets and wear them with pride.
Plenty to look forward to these next two terms, however, for now I implore all our Senior School students to remain focussed on their number one task at hand, giving their best effort at all they do at school and focussing on their work. Work hard and the merits of that work should come into fruition.
Manoj Patel
Year 12 Coordinator
Years 10 and 11
As we approach the conclusion of Term One, it’s with a sense of gratitude and pride that I reflect on the journey so far. These past weeks have been filled with moments of growth, camaraderie, and celebration, highlighting the strength and vibrancy of our school community.
The spirit of togetherness was palpable throughout the term, particularly during events like the Swimming Carnival and Athletics Day. These occasions not only showcased the athletic talents of our students but also fostered a sense of unity and belonging that extends far beyond the sports field. It’s heartening to witness the bonds of friendship and support that continue to flourish among our students.
The Year 11 Camp and Year 10 Wellbeing Days served as invaluable opportunities for building respectful relationships among peers and teachers alike. These experiences provided a foundation for trust, empathy, and understanding, nurturing an environment where everyone feels valued and supported in their personal and academic endeavours.
Our commitment to upholding our school values was evident throughout the term, with events like the School Blessing and Leadership Induction Assemblies reminding us of the importance of embracing a zest for life and a spirit of excellence in all that we do. These moments of reflection and celebration serve as beacons guiding us on our journey towards personal and collective fulfillment.
Community engagement was at the forefront of our activities this term, with events like Pancake Day and Tsiknopempti bringing us together in joyous celebration of our cultural heritage. These experiences not only deepen our appreciation for diversity but also strengthen the bonds that unite us as a school community.
Preparations for the interstate games with other Greek Orthodox Schools across Australia are well underway, with our National Schools Event (NSE) teams formalized and ready to showcase their talents and sportsmanship on a national stage. This collaborative effort not only highlights our athletic prowess but also reinforces the sense of camaraderie and friendship that transcends geographical boundaries.
On a more humble note, I’d like to extend my gratitude to our Student Representative Council (SRC) for their unwavering dedication and commitment. Their willingness to sacrifice weekends to attend various liturgies and represent our school with pride is truly commendable. Most recently, their participation in the Independence Day Liturgy and the Wreath-Laying ceremony at the Shrine of Remembrance exemplifies their deep sense of respect and responsibility towards our school community and broader society.
Additionally, the partnership between students in Year 10 and 11 and our short-stay Japanese students exemplifies the spirit of inclusivity and cultural exchange that defines our school. These intercultural connections not only enrich our learning experiences but also reinforce the values of acceptance, fun, collegiality, and spirit that permeate every aspect of school life.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Mrs Spanos and I were invited by Theo Zographos, Liberal Candidate for Chisolm to participate in a round table discussion with the Shadow Minister for Women - Sussan Ley. It was a privilege to be able to participate in a powerful discussion of this calibre addressing contemporary women’s issues and talk about policies that empower women to use their voice for change.
As we enter the season of Great Lent, I wish everyone a spiritual journey filled with peace, love, and personal growth. May this period of reflection and renewal strengthen our bonds as a community and inspire us to continue striving for excellence in all that we do.
Paula Dimitriou-Tsiagalos
Year Level Leader (Years 10 & 11)
