Diamond Valley College

Principal Report

Hello Diamond Valley College,

 

As we close the book on another year, I want to take this opportunity to reflect on our collective achievements and look forward to 2025 with optimism.  Although I’ve only been part of Diamond Valley College for a short time, I’ve been truly heartened by the warmth, support, and strong sense of community that defines our College. From my very first day, I’ve felt welcomed not only by our dedicated staff and students, but also by the families and community members who make this place so special.

 

Over the past year, we’ve celebrated growth and success across all domains of our College life.  From strengthening our educational programs and embracing opportunities in the arts and sports, to cultivating leadership qualities and community engagement in our students, it’s been inspiring to watch everyone come together to uplift and encourage one another. This spirit embodies our purpose as a school.  That being to nurture confident, capable, and compassionate young people who will make a positive mark on the world.

 

As we turn our attention towards 2025, we must also bid farewell to several valued staff members. Their dedication, professionalism, and kindness have left a legacy.  On behalf of the entire Diamond Valley College community, I extend our deepest gratitude for their service and wish them nothing but the best in the future

  • Aidan Clarke
  • Stephanie Connell
  • Matthew Yates
  • Steph Cameron
  • Sarah Cockroft
  • Andrew Burden
  • Cinzia Curini
  • Scott Barton
  • Russell Walton
  • Alessandra Petruzzelli
  • Manuela Felicetti

 

While we say goodbye to familiar faces, we also look forward to welcoming new teaching staff members.  Each brings with them fresh insights, specialised expertise, and a true passion for education. Please join me in making them feel at home as they embark on this exciting new chapter with us:

  • Paul Mullaney – English
  • Claire Delaney – Maths/Psychology
  • David Tod – Applied Computing / Digitech

 

In 2025, we will also be implementing significant adjustments to our subschool structure. Our current two subschool model will expand to three, each focusing on distinct year levels and strategic priorities. This transition supports our implementation of the School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework and ensures a more targeted, cohesive approach to leadership, wellbeing, and academic success. We are pleased to introduce the following subschool leaders:

                •              Junior School (Years 7-8) – Brigette Gilmour (Acting Leading Teacher)

                •              Middle School (Years 9-10) – Tara Librio (Leading Teacher)

                •              Senior School (Years 11-12) – Kirk Briggs (Acting Leading Teacher)

 

These subschools will be supported by our Assistant Principals, and I am delighted to announce that Rebecca Taylor will join Reg Byrne and Shona McEnerny as an Acting Assistant Principal. Together, these leaders will guide our strategic priorities and work closely with students and staff to foster a positive, inclusive, and enriching learning environment. 

 

I would also like to take this moment to acknowledge some of our Year 12 students as they receive their results. We are incredibly proud of their resilience, dedication, and hard work, especially given the challenges faced in recent years. 

 

We are proud to announce Aaliyah Praag as DUX for 2024. We called her today to congratulate her and she was very happy, and typically modest about her achievement. She is very happy with her score and was confident this would secure her university entrance to further studies in science. Congratulations Aaliyah!

 

Their successes, both large and small, are a testament to their perseverance and the unwavering support of their families, teachers, and peers. Congratulations to each of our Year 12 graduates, you have our admiration and best wishes for the future.

 

On a celebratory note, please join me in congratulating our Technology teacher, Mr. Anthony Gasson, who has been honoured with the Foster Adem Award for Leadership in Technologies Education by the Design and Technology Teachers’ Association. This prestigious award recognises his skill, innovation, and commitment to excellence. We are thrilled by his achievement and proud to have Anthony as part of our team!

 

As we now prepare to enjoy a well-earned break, I hope everyone finds time to rest, rejuvenate, and share special moments with loved ones.  The end of year break offers a moment to appreciate our collective successes and set our sights on the opportunities ahead. I look forward to welcoming you all back in 2025—refreshed, energised, and ready to embrace the challenges ahead!

 

Thank you for your continued support, kindness, and belief in Diamond Valley College. 

 

Take care everyone!

Sam Luck

Executive Principal

Diamond Valley College