The Star

Deputy Principal

Mr Daniel Lapolla

Academic Assembly

It was great to have over two hundred parents/carers in attendance to celebrate the successes of so many of our young men. As a College we are extremely proud of our young men who were highlighted for a number of awards which you can see below. Reflecting on how we are going is important but we must never forget to acknowledge and commend when great achievements are made. Once again, a huge congratulations to our young men.

 

Virgilian Exemplars

During Term 2, I asked our teaching staff to acknowledge those students who exemplify the Virgilian Way in the form of;

  • those students who demonstrate in their deeds our core values.

  • Students who always do their best.

  • Students who always demonstrate a positive attitude and work ethic.

  • Students who are a positive example to their peers.

  • and Students who engage with their teachers and peers maturely and respectfully.

It is important to note that "Exemplary" behaviour is more than just following rules—it's about leading by example. When students act with integrity, respect, and compassion, they set a powerful standard for others to follow. They become in our eyes Virgilian exemplars—not just of good conduct, but of character. These students show us that excellence isn’t just in achievement alone, but in how we treat others along the way.

 

The Commendable Effort Award recognises students who have demonstrated a strong and positive approach to their learning. These students stand out for their dedication, resilience, and the way they apply themselves in their studies.

 

They are the students who show up, work hard, respond to feedback, and persist—even when things are challenging. Their teachers have noted their above-average attitude and application across their subjects, and today we want to publicly acknowledge and affirm that effort.

 

Because at St Virgil’s, we know that it’s not just about natural ability—it’s about mindset, character, and the willingness to strive for growth.

 

Academic Excellence

Celebrating academic excellence with two awards that recognise not just talent, but commitment, consistency, and a genuine pursuit of learning.

 

The Academic Merit Award recognises students who have demonstrated strong academic performance across all of their subjects. These students have consistently achieved high grades, showing focus, discipline, and a solid work ethic throughout the term. Their results are the product of sustained effort, and they are to be commended for their achievement.

 

The Outstanding Academic Achievement Award is awarded to the students who sit at the very top of their year level. These students have achieved the highest overall results, as measured by a calculated Grade Point Average across all their subjects, reflecting an exceptional level of academic excellence. This award acknowledges those whose results place them among the very best at St Virgil’s.

 

Both of these awards are significant recognitions of academic commitment, skill, and perseverance. They reflect the high standards we value as a learning community, and the individual determination that leads to success.

 

Staying on top of things and managing stress and anxiety

As the weeks roll on it is important to remind ourselves how we can reduce and manage stress and anxiety levels.

 

1. Time Management

  • Prioritise tasks using a planner or digital tool.

  • Break large assignments into smaller, manageable chunks.

  • Use techniques like 25 mins focus, 5 mins break.

  • Avoid last-minute cramming.

 2. Physical Health

  • Exercise regularly: Even 20–30 minutes of walking, stretching, or a sport can relieve stress.

  • Eat well: Avoid too much caffeine, sugar, and junk food. Eat balanced meals.

  • Sleep enough: Aim for 7–9 hours per night. Poor sleep increases anxiety.

3. Mental and Emotional Health

  • Practice mindfulness or meditation: Apps like Headspace or Calm can help.

  • Deep breathing exercises: Try 4-7-8 breathing or box breathing when overwhelmed.

  • Journaling: Write down worries, thoughts, or things you're grateful for.

4. Study Habits

  • Create a dedicated, distraction-free study space.

  • Study with peers occasionally to reduce isolation and gain perspective.

  • Ask for help from teachers or tutors when struggling.

5. Social Support

  • Talk to friends or family: Sharing how you feel helps release pressure.

  • Join student groups or clubs to build a sense of community.

  • Don't hesitate to reach out to counsellors or therapists if stress feels unmanageable.

 6. Digital Boundaries

  • Limit social media and screen time, especially before bed.

7. Keep Perspective

  • Understand that mistakes and setbacks are part of learning.

  • Remind yourself: one bad grade doesn’t define your worth or future.