Student Achievement:

Over the past two weeks, our Student Leaders have played a pivotal role in the success of our 100 Year Celebrations, demonstrating outstanding leadership, initiative and school pride. Through their commitment and enthusiasm, they have helped create a memorable program of activities that has brought students together and highlighted the strong sense of community that defines our school.

Our student leadership team have worked diligently to plan and deliver a range of events that engaged students across all year levels. Their efforts ensured that our Centenary Celebrations were not simply a reflection on our school's rich history, but also an opportunity for current students to contribute to and celebrate the legacy they are helping to shape. The high levels of participation throughout the week reflected the positive culture fostered by our leaders and their ability to inspire others to become involved.

One of the most pleasing aspects of the celebrations has been the sense of connection evident across the school. Students have embraced the opportunity to celebrate together, strengthening relationships and creating shared experiences that will be remembered for many years to come. The enthusiasm and spirit displayed throughout the week are a testament to the leadership shown by our student representatives. Particular recognition should be given to our School Leaders, Kate McRae and Jevon Dalton, whose leadership has been exceptional. They have approached the centenary celebrations with energy, determination and a genuine commitment to ensuring every student feels part of this historic occasion. Their ability to unite the student body around a shared sense of pride has been inspiring and they have represented the school with distinction throughout the planning and implementation of events.

The student-centred celebrations concluded with the entire school gathering for a drone photograph on the front oval, forming the number 100. This unique moment will provide a lasting symbol of our centenary year and a reminder of the special role our current students have played in commemorating this important milestone.

As a community, we congratulate our Student Leaders and thank them for their outstanding contribution to this significant chapter in our school's history.

Eltham High School Exhibition of the School’s Art Collection

The Eltham High School Art Collection Exhibition at Eltham High School, officially opened on 28 August, and most of it remains on show. This Exhibition featured work of past students and staff who are part of the school’s art collection.

This was an amazing evening once again bringing the community together and celebrating the school’s artistic history. Over the weekend of 29-30 August, the school was open for anyone who wanted to view the Exhibition. Once again this was extremely well attended.

The buzz at the Exhibition opening was amazing. It was very pleasing to see all the reconnections that were made across people who had not seen each other for decades.

I wish to thank our group of volunteers who did an amazing job in both cataloguing the collection and curating the Exhibition. The group of Linda McLeod, Marian Stoney, Louise Heathcote and Lyn Davis need to be commended for the time and effort they have placed in presenting this showcase of the Eltham High School Art Collection. We can never thank them enough.

STEAM Centre Official Opening

On Friday 11 September, Eltham High School proudly celebrated the official opening of the Warrack STEAM Centre, marking a significant milestone in the school's commitment to innovative, future-focused education. The event brought together students, staff, community members and distinguished guests to acknowledge the importance of a learning environment designed to prepare young people for an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

The Hon. Vicky Ward MP, Member for Eltham, officiated on behalf of the Premier, the Hon. Ben Carroll MP, and the Minister for Education, the Hon. Gabrielle Williams MP, formally declaring the Warrack STEAM Centre open. Joining the celebration were the Hon. Kate Thwaites MP, Federal Member for Jagajaga; Councillor Naomi Joiner, Mayor of Nillumbik; Eltham High School alumnus Professor Michael Braby; Clare Read, Senior Education Improvement Leader; School Council President Kirsty Jungwirth; School Councillors Paula Sardina, Volkan Ozturk, Sam Pang and Tom Allen; representatives from Haskell Architects and McColl Smith Builders; and House Patron John Everard and family.

A memorable feature of the event was the contribution of School Leaders Kate McRae and Jevon Dalton, who delivered the Acknowledgement of Country and spoke about the educational vision underpinning the Centre. Their reflections highlighted how the facility has been designed to foster curiosity, creativity and collaboration while empowering students to engage deeply with authentic and meaningful learning experiences.

The Warrack STEAM Centre represents far more than a new building. It embodies a contemporary approach to education that recognises the value of connecting learning across disciplines. Through the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics, students are encouraged to investigate real-world challenges, develop innovative solutions and apply knowledge in practical contexts. The Centre's flexible learning spaces support inquiry, design thinking and the development of the adaptable skills required for success in the twenty-first century. Since students began using the Centre, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Following the official ceremony, guests toured the new facilities while enjoying refreshments prepared and served by Eltham High School's VET Hospitality students. The tours provided an opportunity to experience firsthand the specialised learning spaces that will support student learning for years to come.

A particular highlight of the event was the Mathematics is Beautiful Exhibition, created by Dr Peter Van der Kamp, Professor of Mathematics at La Trobe University and a current Eltham High School parent. Featuring twenty-five artworks generated using mathematical algorithms, the exhibition beautifully demonstrated how mathematical thinking can inspire artistic expression. Displayed throughout the Centre's shared space and Maker Spaces, the collection reflects the essence of STEAM education by showcasing the connections between creativity, innovation and analytical thinking.

The opening of the Warrack STEAM Centre was warmly received by all in attendance and represents an exciting new chapter for Eltham High School. It stands as a powerful investment in student learning, providing an inspiring environment where imagination, ingenuity and academic excellence can flourish for generations to come.

Centenary Music Concerts

The first of our Centenary Student Concerts was held on Monday 14 September in the Nalleijerring Performance Centre, celebrating the remarkable talent, dedication and spirit of our student musicians. Families, friends and members of the school community were treated to an outstanding evening of music featuring performances by the Symphonic Band, Training Strings, Choir, Training Band, Jazz Band and Stage Band. We were also delighted to welcome the Eltham Primary School Combined Band, whose participation added to the sense of community and shared celebration that made the evening so special.

Music education plays a vital role in the life of our school. Through participation in ensembles, students develop discipline, collaboration, creativity and confidence while experiencing the joy that comes from working towards a common artistic goal. The concert was a powerful reminder of the impact that music can have in bringing people together and creating lasting memories for performers and audiences alike.

One of the highlights of the evening was the outstanding solo performance by Year 12 student Clancy Widdup on tenor saxophone. Clancy's musicianship, technical skill and expressive performance captivated the audience and reflected the high standard of music-making that continues to flourish within our program.

In recognition of the school's centenary year, the Symphonic Band presented a carefully curated repertoire that not only celebrated 100 years of history but also reflected the values that continue to shape our learning community. Through music, students explored themes of perseverance, respect, excellence and connection, demonstrating how the arts can give expression to the principles that define who we are as a school. Their performance was both a tribute to the past and a reflection of the aspirations we hold for the future.

Events of this scale are only possible through the commitment of many people. We extend our sincere thanks to our music staff for their expertise and dedication in preparing students for the concert, all the ensemble directors/conductors, our Director of Music Rick Keenan and to the staff members who generously volunteered their time to support the event. We are also deeply grateful to the Friends of Music for their ongoing commitment and tireless work throughout the year. Their support continues to enrich opportunities for our students and strengthen our vibrant music community. A special acknowledgement must also be given to our new Music Secretary, Nadia Sartori. Having commenced in the role only at the beginning of Term 3, Nadia has embraced her responsibilities with professionalism and enthusiasm, ensuring a smooth transition during an exceptionally busy period.

Our second Centenary Music Concert will take place on Thursday 17 September. This special event will provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate 26 of our Year 12 students who have contributed so much to the wider Music Program during their time at Eltham High School. As they prepare for upcoming examinations and future pathways, we thank them for the commitment, leadership and passion they have brought to our ensembles and wish them every success in the years ahead.

The evening will feature performances by the Strings Orchestra, Chamber Strings and several other ensembles. The Symphonic Band will present a new repertoire that continues the centenary theme, drawing connections between our school values and the enduring role of music in inspiring individuals, fostering belonging and building community.

We warmly invite you to be part of this memorable celebration.

Approval of the New Victorian Government Schools Agreement

All school staff, regardless of union membership, were required to vote on the proposed Victorian Government Schools Agreement. Voting was completed on 14 September, with an overwhelming majority of staff voting in favour of the agreement.

Based on this result and expected voting trends across the state, it is anticipated that the agreement will be endorsed and implemented from the beginning of the 2027 school year. As a result, planning for 2027 is already being undertaken with the new agreement in mind, and no significant adjustments to current planning are expected.

End of Term 3

As Term 3 draws to a close on Friday 18 September, students and staff are looking forward to a well-earned break following an exceptionally busy and productive term. The holiday period provides an important opportunity for everyone to rest, recharge and return refreshed for the final term of the year.

I would like to wish all members of our school community a safe and enjoyable break and look forward to welcoming students and staff back on Monday 5 October.

During the holiday period, our Year 12 students will be undertaking trial examinations as they prepare for their final weeks of secondary schooling. While it is important that they take some time to relax, this period also provides a valuable opportunity to consolidate their learning ahead of their final assessments. The encouragement and support of families during this time will be greatly appreciated. We wish our Year 12 students every success as they continue their preparations and work towards this important milestone.

As is customary at the end of each term, students will be dismissed at 2:30 pm on Friday 18 September. Parents and carers are asked to ensure suitable travel arrangements are in place for students who are unable to return home via their usual means.

Thank you to our families and wider community for your ongoing support throughout the term. Your partnership continues to play an important role in supporting the learning, wellbeing and success of our young people.

Vincent Sicari, Principal

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