Secondary School

Year Twelve Graduation Events

Last week, we marked a significant milestone as we celebrated the end of our Year Twelve cohort’s formal schooling journey. The festivities began on Thursday with some of our long-standing traditions that bring both students and staff together to reflect on their time at school. The day kicked off with a celebratory breakfast shared between Year Twelves and staff, providing an opportunity to connect and reminisce about their shared experiences. Then there was a lively and fun-filled water fight, which has become a favourite event for both students and staff. 

To conclude the morning, the students gathered for their final House meetings, a moment for reflection and farewells within their smaller school communities. These traditions not only celebrate the end of formal schooling, but also honour the relationships and memories built over the years. It was a memorable day with laughter, nostalgia, and a sense of accomplishment for both the students and the staff who have supported them throughout their journey.

On Friday, we held our Year Twelve Chapel Service, where the focus was on gratitude and reflection, providing a meaningful moment for students to pause and appreciate their journey. Following the service, we transitioned into the formal Valedictory Assembly, a ceremonial event to honour and celebrate the achievements of the graduating class as they conclude their time at the school.

I thought I would share my speech with you below:

Good Morning, I would also like to extend my welcome to you all today.  It is lovely to see so many people here to support the 2024 Year Twelves as they celebrate the conclusion of their time here at Great Southern Grammar.

But before I go any further, what a stitch up this is! I shouldn’t be the one giving this speech. Where’s the person who threw me under the bus? Mrs Victoria Turnor, where are you? Ah, there you are! So glad to see you—welcome to the stage! 

No, I must say I never thought that I would be in this position, serving as Acting Head of Secondary School during this significant time. It has been a true honour, especially as I watch these Year Twelve students reach the end of their school journey. 

The class of 2024 have been an absolute pleasure to work with over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching so many of them in various subjects and being part of their development both in and outside the classroom. From our lessons together to the many sporting events and excursions, I’ve had the chance to build strong connections with many of them.  It’s been an incredible experience to witness their growth.

In this last year, they have helped our new Principal settle into his role and have been involved with so many projects being reignited to bring fun back to school. They have been on board, built fantastic relationships with staff, and been amazing role models. Some examples of how this looks include wonderful attendance and behaviour at the ball and associated events, incredible participation in all the House Dress Up days, getting behind the Push Up Challenge, the World’s Greatest Shave where they even managed to get the Principal a clean cut, and of course, Country Week where so many of the Year Twelve lead their teams.

As they move on to the next chapter of their lives, I know they will be greatly missed, not only by me but by the entire school community. 

Please see below a list of subject merit awards and other special awards.

Academic Awards

Year Nine News

Our Year Nine students have had a particularly busy week completing their OLNA assessments, and I must say, I’ve been thoroughly impressed by their level of organisation and preparation, especially given that this is their first experience with these important assessments. Their dedication and focus have been commendable, and it’s clear they’ve taken this challenge seriously. We expect the results to be available at the beginning of next year, and I am confident their results will positively reflect their efforts.

Mr Neil Ferreira | Acting Head of Secondary