Year Level Leaders Report
Year 7 Leader Report
What a busy and productive start to the term for our newest members of the SOC community! During their transition program, our Year 7s have immersed themselves into college life with eagerness and enthusiasm. In the first three weeks, the Year 7s participated in a program designed to familiarise themselves with South Oakleigh College and their new responsibilities and expectations - all underpinned by our shared values of High Expectations, Respect, Responsibility, Resilience and Teamwork.
An integral part of this program was a three-day camp at the Waratah Beach Resort near Wilson's Promontory. Here, our Year 7 students and teachers enjoyed team activities such as beach exploration walks, team initiative challenges, even a sand sculpting competition. The teachers were impressed by this group's sense of camaraderie and enthusiasm, and thoroughly enjoyed watching new friendships develop over the three days.
On their return to school, the students demonstrated their adaptability and resilience when faced with the challenge of the school's storm damage. I would personally like to thank the Year 7s for their cooperation and adaptability during this challenging and unanticipated time!
Now as the year 7s settle into their regular timetabled classes and get to know their subjects and teachers, we remind them to keep asking questions and continue to build on their organisational skills.
We look forward to a great year!
Kerryn Hoernel
Year Level Leader: 7
Year 8 Leader Report
The year 8s have all settled in really well to the year. The transition program seemed to have a really positive impact. My 2 key messages this year are that students need to show empathy and follow our school values. We have our year 8 camp coming up shortly and some students are really looking forward to this. It's your final chance to sign up for this so please make sure they don't miss this opportunity of a final Year Level camp. Well done all year 8s for their positive start this year
Zane Fernandes
Year Level Leader: 8
Year 9 Leader Report
To the Year 9 cohort of 2024 and support network reading this, we welcome you to the South Oakleigh College Middle School community.
Our fantastic Year 9 community consists of 156 wonderful students, the majority of whom have enjoyed a positive start to the school year.
This year, in addition to core subjects, students are undertaking electives, to which I have heard overwhelmingly positive feedback from students about the opportunity to enact student voice and agency.
Our initial and subsequent Year Level assembly have focussed on communicating the importance of embodying our school values, to facilitate and enrich the whole school and learning experience:
- High Expectations are demonstrated daily by students and teachers as a vehicle for each individual to achieve their personal best.
- Respect in our school environment involves demonstrating empathy and kindness to yourself and others.
- Responsibility involves taking accountability for your own actions and learning, including always being prepared to learn.
- Resilience is demonstrated by students persevering when learning becomes challenging.
- Teamwork ensures an inclusive school community, in which we collectively hold one another accountable for demonstrating our other school values.
I would also like to remind our Year 9 cohort that their coordination team have processes and policies in place to ensure equity, and the right of all teachers to teach, and learners to learn. On this note, I encourage students to communicate with their Mentor teacher and/or myself should they require support. I look forward to working with you all throughout the year, and remember, "You get out what you put in!"
Blake Cochrane
Year Level Support Leader : 9
Year 10 Leaders Report
Year 10s Off to a Strong Start!
It's been an excellent beginning to the academic year, and we're thrilled to report that our Year 10 students have set an impressive standard for dedication and commitment. Their enthusiasm for learning and proactive approach to their studies have been commendable. As we continue to navigate through the school year, it's essential to reinforce the importance of punctuality, preparedness, and effective study habits. Here are some valuable tips for our Year 10 students to ensure they stay on track with their schoolwork and homework:
1. Prioritise Time Management: Encourage students to use planners or digital tools to organise their schedules, set realistic study goals, and allocate specific time slots for homework, revision, and leisure activities. By managing their time effectively, students can reduce procrastination and enhance productivity.
2. Establish a Dedicated Study Space: Creating a designated study area free from distractions is crucial for maintaining focus and concentration. Encourage students to find a quiet, well-lit space with minimal interruptions where they can comfortably engage in their studies and complete assignments.
3. Utilise Effective Note-Taking Strategies: Encourage students to develop effective note-taking techniques, such as summarising key points, using abbreviations, and creating visual aids like mind maps or diagrams. Emphasise the importance of active listening during classes and reviewing notes regularly to reinforce learning.
4. Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks: Encourage students to break down larger assignments or study sessions into smaller, more manageable tasks. By tackling tasks one step at a time, students can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed and can maintain motivation.
5. Seek Help and Clarification: Remind students that it's okay to ask questions and seek clarification when they encounter challenges or difficulties. Whether it's reaching out to teachers during the school day, forming study groups with peers, or accessing online resources, encourage students to actively seek support to enhance their understanding and learning experience.
As we continue to support our Year 10 students on their academic journey, let's reinforce the importance of these foundational strategies for success. Together, with a proactive approach to learning and a commitment to personal growth, we can ensure that our students thrive academically and reach their full potential.
Andrea Carmody
Year Level Leader: 12
Years 11 and 12 Leaders Report
Hello families of Year 11 and 12 students
We are halfway through Term 1 and so far students have settled into their VCE/VM courses. We would like to take this opportunity to formally introduce ourselves as well as our role within the Senior School.
Year 11 Leader – Ms Dimakakos
Year 12 Leader – Ms Ferguson
Director of the Senior School – Ms Monga
The Senior Team would like to stress the importance of the VM/VCE year. Remember to stay focused, prioritise your studies as well your wellbeing and embrace all challenges with resilience.
Additionally, we would also like to thank all the senior students for showing their resilience in times of disruption as a result of the extreme weather that was experienced earlier in the term.
We are looking forward to a enjoyable and productive year together.
#TOGETHERWECAN
Phyllis Dimakakos
Year Level Leader: 11
Jessica Ferguson
Year Level Leader: 12