Leading Teachers Report 

End of Term 2: 

Junior School Report

Dear South Oakleigh College Community, 

As Term 2 draws to a close, it is a valuable time for students to reflect on their learning goals and consider the feedback they have received from their teachers. 

A great starting point for this reflection is the Semester One reports, which will be released to parents and students via Compass at the end of the term. Throughout the past few weeks, teachers have been busy assessing student work, correcting tasks and exams, and providing thoughtful and constructive feedback. We encourage all families to take the time to review these reports together, as they provide an excellent opportunity to open meaningful conversations about learning, growth, and areas for future focus. 

Our Year 8 students have recently completed their Semester One exams, and it was pleasing to see them approach the assessments with diligence and a commitment to doing their personal best. Teachers have now marked the exams and shared the results with students. Meanwhile, our Year 7 students continued to focus on their learning tasks and class-based assessments. While they did not sit formal exams, their engagement and effort in their learning remain commendable. 

I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our outstanding Year Level Leaders — Mr Bowman (Year 7) and Ms Heppel (Year 8) — for their dedication and ongoing support of our students and their families. Their hard work, care, and leadership are evident in everything they do, and I hope they enjoy a well-deserved break over the holidays. 

To all students and families, I wish you a restful and enjoyable winter break. May it be a time to recharge, relax, and enjoy time with loved ones. We look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready, on the first day of Term 3. 

Stay safe, stay warm, and we’ll see you next term. 

George Tzimourtas 

Director of Students:  Junior School

Middle School Report

As Term 2 draws to a close, we take this opportunity to reflect on the achievements of our middle school students and look ahead to the exciting challenges Term 3 will bring. 

At South Oakleigh College, our school HRRRT values have been evident in all aspects of school life, and we commend our students for embodying these values throughout the term. 

Congratulations to all our students for successfully completing their Semester 1 exams. 

We are proud of the focus, commitment, and resilience demonstrated by our middle school students during the examination period. Teachers have commended the thoughtful preparation and positive mindset students brought to their assessments. 

Semester 1 reports will soon be available via Compass and will provide insight into student progress and achievement across all subjects. We encourage students to reflect on their results, celebrate their successes, and set clear, actionable goals for Semester 2. Taking time to evaluate learning habits and academic growth is a key part of building resilience and striving for continuous improvement. 

The mid-year break provides a valuable opportunity for students to rest, recharge, and reflect on their academic and personal growth so far this year. We encourage all students to take time to relax with family and friends, pursue creative or physical activities, and prepare themselves mentally and emotionally for the term ahead. 

As we look forward to Term 3, we are excited to continue supporting students in their learning journey. Let’s return with renewed energy, ready to embrace new opportunities, challenge ourselves, and live out the values of South Oakleigh College every day. 

Wishing all students and families a safe, joyful, and restful holiday break. 

Below are some key reminders: 

Work Experience All Year 10 students are expected to undertake one week of work experience as part of their learning journey. This program is an invaluable opportunity to develop real-world skills, explore potential career pathways, and gain insights into the professional world beyond the classroom. Students who have not yet organised a placement are encouraged to contact our Careers Advisor, Ms Effie Patti, as soon as possible to finalise their arrangements. We urge all students to approach this opportunity with enthusiasm and a growth mindset—demonstrating responsibility and initiative in the process.  

Uniform Expectations A reminder to all students and families of the importance of wearing our school uniform with pride. Correct uniform contributes to a cohesive and respectful learning environment and reflects the high standards we uphold as a college community. 

Students should not wear jewellery, excessive makeup or accessories, or long sleeve shirts beneath their uniform. 

Any student who is out of uniform must provide a note from a parent or carer and speak with their Coordinator before the school day begins to receive a Uniform Pass. 

The full Uniform Policy is available on the school website. Let us continue to represent our college with integrity and respect. 

Travis Knox

Director of Students: Middle School

Senior School Report

As we wrap up Term 2 and Semester 1, we’d like to congratulate the many Year 11 and 12 students who achieved High - Excellent results in their SACs this term. Additionally, it was great to see some new students being recognised for their efforts, well done!

A special congratulations also goes to all students who sat the General Achievement Test (GAT) on Tuesday, 17th June. This marks an important milestone for those undertaking a Unit 3 & 4 subject as they continue preparing for end-of-year examinations.

Looking ahead, we’re excited about two key events in Term 3:

• Year 11 Formal – Vogue Ballroom, Thursday 18th September
• Year 12 Valedictory Evening – Sofitel on Collins, Monday 20th October.

If you haven’t secured your tickets yet, please head to the Compass newsfeed for booking information or alternatively, contact a member of the senior school team.

A reminder that all students are expected to return in full winter academic uniform at the beginning of Term 3. At South Oakleigh College, our uniform reflects pride and connection to our school community. For uniform guidelines, visit: Uniform Policy.

Well done to all our VCE VM students who are actively engaging with their coursework, VET studies, and Structured Workplace Learning (SWL). Your ongoing commitment is setting you up for future success. A reminder that SWL continues every Friday throughout the school term. This is a valuable opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in a real workplace aligned with their VET course, a chance to explore potential career pathways and build practical skills while still at school. Keep up the great work.

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to all senior students for your efforts throughout Term 2. Continue to aim high, work hard, and believe in your potential. Enjoy a well-deserved break and return refreshed for an exciting and busy Term 3.

Jessica Ferguson

Director of Students: VCE and VCE VM