From the Principal

As I return from long service leave, it has been wonderful to be back in our College community and see the continued work of our staff and students. I would like to acknowledge Melissa Treverton and the wider leadership team for their work in maintaining the smooth operation of the College during my absence. 

Challenging our community to strive and achieve

Our College vision continues to come to life through the many opportunities our students have to challenge themselves, contribute to their community and strive to achieve their best.

Our Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students have demonstrated the value of community contribution through their Community Projects. Fundraising activities, a staff–student basketball event and a donation drive supporting Backpacks for Kids and the Smith family raised a total of $1,779.75. These initiatives are a wonderful example of students working together to make a positive difference to others.

Our STEP Superchef students also showcased their developing hospitality skills at an evening event at Oscars Hangout. It was a valuable opportunity to apply their learning in an authentic setting and build connections with industry, including the owner and former Parkdale student, Brad Mill.

We were delighted to welcome approximately 350–400 people to our Year 6–7 Information Evening. The strong attendance reflects the interest and enthusiasm of families considering Parkdale for 2027. We look forward to welcoming our new students for the statewide transition day on Tuesday 8 December.

Our students have also continued to engage in activities that broaden their understanding of the world around them. Our Battle for Australia commemorative service gave students an opportunity to reflect on an important part of our national history, while Year 9 Koori Day supported cultural understanding and appreciation. The Girls in STEM program encouraged students to explore opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Celebrating student and staff achievement

There have been many achievements to celebrate this term, both in the classroom and beyond.

A particular highlight was the recognition of Bam Brickle as one of Victoria’s eight VCE Leaders for 2026 by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. This is a significant achievement, and we congratulate Bam on this well-deserved recognition.

Our students have also enjoyed outstanding success in athletics. At the Southern Metropolitan Region Athletics competition, Parkdale finished fourth out of 64 schools, with our 14-year-old girls and 17-year-old boys teams placing first in their respective age groups.

More recently, Harry Scurrah won state titles in both the 100 metres and 200 metres, recording an impressive 10.95 seconds in the 100 metres. Imogen Jeffery became state champion in the 14-year-old girls’ javelin and also secured two silver medals. These results reflect the dedication and perseverance of our students, alongside the support of the staff who help them pursue their goals.

We also congratulate our staff recognised at the Monash Mentor Teachers’ Celebration. Dianne Wain was nominated for her work coordinating teaching placements, while Jess Ballas, Tracey Seach, Lucie Smith and Tim Walsh received nominations from pre-service teachers in recognition of their work as exceptional mentor teachers. Supporting the next generation of educators is an important contribution to the teaching profession, and we are proud to see our staff recognised for their work.

Our Science Fair, a hands-on reptile incursion and the introduction of a new wind tunnel resource for Physics and STEP have provided further opportunities for students to explore their curiosity, develop practical skills and extend their learning.

Farewelling the Class of 2026

We have recently farewelled the Class of 2026 from their formal attendance at Parkdale, marking an important milestone in their secondary education.

A highlight was the progress of our graduating VCE Vocational Major students. At their presentation evening at the end of Term 3, students shared their educational and vocational journeys, reflecting on how far they had come and the pathways they are preparing to pursue. Their confidence, pride in their achievements and enthusiasm for the future were wonderful to see.

The entire Year 12 cohort approached their final week and last day with exceptional maturity, respect and enthusiasm. They celebrated with great energy while showing genuine appreciation for their teachers, support staff and the College community. Their conduct was a credit to them and their families, and they have set a wonderful example for younger students of how to celebrate an important milestone with positivity and respect.

The final week included wellbeing activities, a dance session and time in the Senior Centre for students to sign one another’s uniforms as a memento of their years at Parkdale. They also received their Yearbook, providing a lasting collection of memories from their time at the College.

Thank you to all the staff who have supported this cohort throughout their secondary education, particularly the Year 12 team and everyone who helped make their final celebrations so memorable. We look forward to celebrating their achievements with students and families at the Valedictory Dinner on Thursday 19 November.

To the Class of 2026, we wish you every success as you complete your examinations and move into further study, apprenticeships, employment and other future pathways. You leave Parkdale having made a valuable contribution to our community, and we look forward to hearing about your achievements in the years ahead.

Parent Contributions Policy – planning for 2027

The Department of Education has introduced changes to the way schools request financial support from families, moving from the Parent Payments Policy to the Parent Contributions Policy for 2027. 

Following consideration of the new requirements and the resources needed to support learning across different year levels, the School Council Finance Subcommittee agreed to the following suggested voluntary contribution amounts for 2027:

• Years 7–10: $620 per student

• Years 11–12: $900 per student

These contributions help support our wellbeing resourcing and programs, provision of first aid, vital curriculum resources, learning materials, digital subscriptions and other items that enrich the educational experience at Parkdale. Any contribution families are able to make will add considerable value to our community and allow us to continue to offer our students the high-quality education we work hard to provide.

We understand that families have different circumstances, and we will continue to support those experiencing financial hardship.

Looking ahead to 2027

Planning is well underway for 2027, including course and class structures, staffing and the development of the first Annual Implementation Plan for our newly developed Strategic Plan. This work will help translate our longer-term priorities into practical actions, with a continued focus on attendance, aspiration, assessment and achievement.

Thank you to our staff, students and families for the many ways you contribute to Parkdale Secondary College. The commitment, care and collaboration of our community continue to make Parkdale a place where young people can challenge themselves, build meaningful connections and strive to achieve their best.