This term has been a busy one, but it has been great to see so many of our young people involved in activities across the college. Whether it was the house soccer this week, multiple excursions and sporting events over the term, as well as clubs and activities on-site, students had many ways to participate and be engaged outside of the classroom.

Some of our student leaders took part in the Beyond Age Expo, organised and run by the City of Whittlesea. For some context: a couple of months ago, our Year 11 Media students took studio portraits of elderly community members involved in a workshop focused on elder abuse and disadvantage. Today, those images were printed and displayed alongside a photograph of each person when they were younger.

Our leaders began by greeting and socialising with the elderly community members ahead of the expo. They then delivered a speech, sang and led a sing-along of 'You've Got a Friend in Me', and handed out a photographic memento of the portraits we'd taken. The message at the heart of the student speech was that older and younger people can sometimes face the same challenge — of not being listened to or valued as part of society — and that, beyond the age gap, they have a friend in us.

I could not have been prouder of our students. Participants and expo-goers came up to them throughout the day to congratulate them on the performance and on Elise's outstanding speech delivery. Well done, leaders — you have represented the school proudly and helped build bridges into our community.

Throughout this semester, we have been very pleased to see so many students receiving recognition points linked to our school values: respect, resilience and care. Over 10,000 recognition points have been awarded to students across the college, and many students have received multiple points each term.

Recognition points play an important role in celebrating the positive choices, attitudes and behaviours that contribute to a successful learning environment. They provide students with immediate feedback and encouragement, helping to reinforce our shared values and recognise the everyday actions that make a difference in our classrooms and community.

By acknowledging students who demonstrate respect, resilience and care, we are building a culture where positive behaviour is valued and celebrated. Recognition points encourage students to strive for their personal best, support one another and take pride in their contributions to the college. We thank our staff for consistently recognising students’ achievements and congratulate all students who have earned recognition points throughout the semester.

2027 Subject Selection Process starting

Subject selection for 2027 has now commenced across the College, with students beginning to explore the many pathways and opportunities available to them.

Current Year 11 students have now received their subject selection information and access codes and are able to submit their 2027 subject preferences. Subject selections for current Year 11 students must be completed by Friday 17 July.

Choosing subjects is an important part of planning for future study, training and career pathways. Students are encouraged to carefully consider their interests, strengths and future goals when making their selections.

To support this process, students and families are encouraged to:

Review the College Senior Subject Handbook for detailed course information.
Speak with current subject teachers about course content and expectations.
Seek advice from their Year Level Team.
Meet with members of the Careers Team to discuss pathways, prerequisites and post-school options.

Further information regarding subject selection timelines for other year levels will be communicated throughout the Term 3.

We encourage all students and families to take the time to explore the available options and seek advice where needed to ensure informed decisions are made for 2027.

Have Your Say on VCE Studies – VCAA Consultation Survey

The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) is inviting feedback from students, teachers, parents, carers and the wider community as part of the 2026 Have Your Say on VCE Studies Consultation Survey.

This survey provides an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing review and improvement of VCE study designs and helps ensure that VCE subjects continue to meet the needs of students and schools across Victoria.

The survey:

Takes approximately 5–10 minutes to complete.
Is anonymous.
Closes on Monday 10 August 2026.

We encourage all VCE students and staff to take part and share their perspectives. Feedback collected through this consultation will help inform any future reviews of VCE studies.

You can access the survey here: 2026 Have Your Say on VCE Studies Consultation Survey.

Thank you for taking the time to contribute your feedback and support the future development of VCE programs.

Finally, school holidays can be a welcome time for many as it is a chance to turn off the alarm and reset. We would encourage students to make plans with friends, get outside, and even try something new. There are many activities offered through the Whittlesea Council, but students will need to register. Some of the events on offer are listed on the last page of the newsletter.

It is also a good time to materials (pens, notebooks, etc..) and also to check uniform ensuring that you are ready to come back Term 3. We want to remind families and students that hoodies are not in our uniform range; students may wear a white or black undershirt. Tracksuit pants or leggings also need to be navy blue, not black. Runners should also be all black, so maybe take a minute to ensure you have the correct uniform.

Enjoy your holiday break and we look forward to seeing you Term 3!

Regards,

Kim-Anne Sohnle

Assistant Principal, Years 7-10

Positive Climate for Learning/Wellbeing

Bill Van Driel

Assistant Principal Years 11-12

Intervention, Pathways & Disability Inclusion

Epping Secondary College Newsletter

Respect, Resilience and Care

Term 2 Week 10 copy · 26 Jun 2026

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