Senior School

As we move towards the conclusion of Term 3, it has been pleasing to see students maintaining their focus and commitment to their studies, co-curricular activities, and the many opportunities available within the Senior School. This term has been particularly busy, with students balancing assessment commitments, pathway planning, leadership opportunities, and preparations for the final stages of the academic year.

For our Year 12 students, the weeks ahead are significant. With formal classes drawing to a close, students are now entering a critical period of consolidation and revision. We encourage all students to make the most of the support available through their classroom teachers, study sessions, and revision opportunities as they prepare for trial examinations and final assessments.

Year 12 Trial Examinations

The upcoming Year 12 Trial Examination period will provide students with an invaluable opportunity to experience examination conditions and identify areas requiring further attention prior to the VCAA examination period. 

Trial examinations are not simply a test of knowledge but also an opportunity to refine examination technique, time management skills, and revision strategies.

Families can play an important role during this period by encouraging consistent study routines, healthy habits, and balanced preparation.

SWOTVAC and Examination Preparation

Following the completion of classes, Year 12 VCE students will enter the SWOTVAC (Study Without Teaching Vacation) period, which will commence on Monday, 19 October and continue until students complete their final VCAA examination. This period is designed to provide students with dedicated time to prepare for their examinations and focus on individual revision strategies. 

While formal classroom teaching concludes, students are strongly encouraged to continue attending their regularly scheduled classes and study sessions throughout the SWOTVAC period. 

These classes provide access to subject teachers, structured revision activities, practice examination questions, and opportunities to clarify any final areas of uncertainty. Experience consistently demonstrates that students who maintain regular attendance and engage with the support available during this period place themselves in the strongest position for examination success.

Students should view SWOTVAC not as time away from school, but as an opportunity to maximise the resources, expertise, and learning environment available to them as they prepare for their final assessments.

VCE-VM and Non-ATAR Students

A significant milestone is also approaching for our VCE-VM and Non-ATAR students. Subject to the satisfactory completion of all coursework, assessments, and attendance requirements these students will conclude their classes at the end of this term.

This marks the beginning of an exciting transition period as students move towards employment, apprenticeships, traineeships, further training, or tertiary study opportunities. We are extremely proud of the progress these students have made throughout their senior years and look forward to celebrating their achievements in the coming weeks.

Feast of the Assumption Mass 

Earlier this month, Senior School students gathered to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption through Mass. These opportunities provide an important moment for reflection and help strengthen the sense of community that underpins life at St Patrick's College. The respectful manner in which students participated was greatly appreciated and reflects the values we seek to foster in all members of our community.

Looking Ahead

A number of significant events remain on the calendar for our Year 12 students, including trial examinations, final classes, Speech Day, Final Day celebrations, the Leave Taking Ceremony, and Valedictory. These occasions provide opportunities to recognise the contribution of the Class of 2026 and celebrate the conclusion of their time at St Patrick's College

Should you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to reach out.

• Matt Miller, Head of Senior School
• Tess Jennings and Rebekah Curtis Lester, Year 10 Leaders 
• Liam Davie and Steve Biggin, Year 11 Leaders 
• Chris Gleeson and Shane Murphy, Year 12 Leaders 
• Andrew Chamings, VCE Coordinator