SENIOR School Update

Dear Parents/Carers and Students

As we move into the second half of Term 2, the changing weather signals a shift in focus across the Senior Campus. Our students are entering an important stage of the term, with Year 11 students preparing for their mid year examinations and Year 12s undertaking Assessment Week. It's been incredibly encouraging to see our students making such productive use of their study periods—whether through collaboration in the Presentation Space or focused individual work in the Silent Study area. Students are demonstrating two of our pillars of excellence and aspiration.

Our Optima pastoral care program continues to support students in their wellbeing and academic progress. It has been great to see strong engagement in recent sessions, especially those focused on study skills and preparation for the weeks ahead.

Recently, our Year 12 students returned from an unforgettable three-day camp at Phillip Island Adventure Centre. The camp was centred around building strong connections between students and their teachers. Students participated in a variety of engaging workshops and activities—from a wellbeing session with Matt LaFontaine, a connection session with their teachers exploring how small “marginal gains” can lead to big improvements, mindfulness sessions, adventure activities, to light-hearted evening fun including trivia and a lively Battle Royal event featuring music, dance, and creative challenges. The energy, laughter, and community spirit on display was truly uplifting.

Meanwhile, our Year 11 students participated in their Optima Day, a dedicated time to explore the school values of Respect, Responsibility, Resilience and Empathy. The day included goal-setting workshops, careers-focused activities, team-building games, and inspiring guest speakers including Geoff Nyssen and FHS alumnus Yunis Celik. These opportunities are vital in helping students build confidence and connection as they continue through their senior school journey.

Students are encouraged to review their study and work routines and their study spaces as they prepare for the Year 11 Midyear Examinations and Year 12 Assessment Week. Students, parents and carers may find this resource helpful. This is from Headspace and provides tips on ‘how to study for exams and reduce stress’. Students are also reminded that they should be striving for 8-9 hours of sleep a night. Cumulative effects of sleep deprivation can have negative affective, behaviour and cognitive impacts. Good sleep hygiene can help improve sleep habits and quality, this resource might be a helpful summary of useful strategies.

As we approach the upcoming assessment period, here are some important reminders for both students and families:

🔍 Key Assessment Dates:

Year 11 VCE Examinations: Wednesday 4 June – Monday 16 June (timetable on Compass)
Year 12 Assessment Week: Tuesday 10 June – Monday 16 June (timetable on Compass)
General Achievement Test (GAT): Tuesday 17 June – for all students undertaking a Unit 3/4 subject. More information is accessible here: General Achievement Test 2025 Information for Students

📝 Examination Reminders for Year 11 and 12 Students:

Students are only required on campus for their scheduled exams
Quiet study spaces will be available in Rooms 402 and 408
If absent, students must provide authorised documentation (medical certificate or statutory declaration)
Missed exams must be rescheduled through the Senior Campus Front Office
Students must bring their Compass ID card (with VCAA number on the back) and be in full school uniform to enter the examination room
Seating charts will be displayed outside exam rooms
Please note: The canteen will not be available during the exam period

We look forward to the commencement of Unit 2 and Unit 4 classes for all students on Wednesday 18 June.

Best wishes to all students as they enter this busy but rewarding period. Your dedication, focus and commitment to personal growth have not gone unnoticed, and we look forward to supporting you every step of the way.

Ms Tiffany Greenhill

Campus Principal

Senior School

We understand families calendar book up quickly. Please see below for some important dates to note.

Click Here for Senior School key contacts

Click Here for Year 11 only Calendar Dates

Click Here for Year 12 only Calendar Dates