Year 11 & 12

Taking time to reset and refocus after exams

The Semester One exams and EST period has come to an end, and students can now settle back into the rhythm of regular school life. Congratulations to all students who completed assessments over the past few weeks. Regardless of the outcome, taking part and persevering is something to be proud of. Fingers crossed you achieved the goals you set for yourself. 

For both our Year 11 and Year 12 students, this next period is an important opportunity for reflection. Semester 1 brought new challenges, increased expectations, and important learning experiences. Now is the time to take on feedback from teachers, ask questions, and think carefully about what worked well and what could be improved moving forward.

Importantly, reflect on your study habits. Did the strategies you used work for you? Perhaps mind maps, Cornell Notes, flashcards, or the Pomodoro Method helped you succeed. Or maybe you found that leaving study too late or not having a clear routine created unnecessary stress. Effective study looks different for everyone, and what works for one student may not work for another. This is the perfect time to refine your routines, trial new strategies, and build stronger habits leading into Semester 2.

Most importantly, ask for help. Whether support comes from home, friends, teachers, or school staff, you have a team around you who genuinely wants to see you succeed — utilise it. For both year groups, I encourage students to explore the study skills resources developed by the University of Melbourne, which provide practical strategies to support effective learning: https://students.unimelb.edu.au/academic-skills/resources/study-skills

Committee opportunities for Year 11 students

Year 11 students, it is time to start thinking ahead to two exciting parts of your Year 12 experience: the Class of 2027 Ball Committee and the Leavers Jacket Committee.

Leavers Jacket Committee

Before the end of term, students will be invited to join the 2027 Leavers Jacket Committee. This is a fantastic opportunity to help create something that will be remembered long after graduation. Committee members will work together to brainstorm designs that reflect the spirit and identity of the Class of 2027 — from colours and styles to customisation. If you enjoy creativity and collaboration, this is a wonderful opportunity to get involved.

Ball Committee

The School Ball Committee will also be forming soon. Students interested in helping plan themes, decorations, entertainment, music, and the atmosphere of the evening are encouraged to get involved. Being part of the committee provides an opportunity to shape a memorable event for your cohort while also developing teamwork, organisation, and leadership skills.

Being part of either committee is more than simply planning events — it is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to your cohort, develop leadership skills, and help create lasting memories. I cannot wait to see the ideas, enthusiasm, and creativity the Class of 2027 brings to the table.

Miss Giorgia Bakeberg

Head of Year 11 and 12