Senior School

As we settle into the new school year, the first few weeks have already been filled with energy, learning, and community spirit. It has been wonderful to welcome students and families back to campus and to see classrooms and corridors buzzing once again with enthusiasm.

Pastoral Care

Over the past fortnight, our Year 10 and Year 11 students participated in two powerful Pastoral Care programs led by Glen Gerreyn. The Day of Hope session for Year 10 focused on self-belief, purpose, and making positive choices for the future. The Men of Honour program for Year 11 encouraged reflection on leadership, responsibility, and what it means to live with integrity.

Last Wednesday, our Year 12s joined a really eye-opening session run by Ctrl Your Scroll. They got into how tech affects their wellbeing and picked up practical tips for smarter, safer device use. We loved hearing their thoughtful take on navigating today's digital challenges—their reflections showed real maturity. I'd encourage parents and families to dive into the research that powers this workshop:

Head of the Lake 

Excitement has been building among our Year 12 students as they prepare for the upcoming Head of the Lake event. War cries have echoed across campus this week as our Year 12s demonstrate passion, and pride. This tradition embodies the unity and spirit that makes SPC so special. Most importantly, we wish all of our rowers the very best for Sunday. 

Senior School Information Evening 

Thank you to all parents and guardians who attended the Senior School Information Evening. Your involvement and partnership play an essential role in supporting your child’s educational journey. All information shared has been sent via email for those unable to attend.

Year 12 SACs  

Year 12 families, please familiarise yourselves with the School-Assessed Coursework (SAC) calendar, which outlines key assessment dates for Term 1. 

If a Year 12 student misses a SAC due to illness or other reasons, they must email vcesupport@stpats.vic.edu.au as soon as practically possible to arrange a resit. Under VCAA rules and regulations, students must submit a medical certificate if they miss a SAC due to illness. All catch-up SACs are held in the Study Centre each Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30pm–4:30pm.

Homework 

As we move deeper into Term 1, establishing a consistent homework routine is essential for student success. Regular homework helps reinforce classroom learning, build independent study skills, and support preparation for assessments. Setting up a quiet, distraction-free space at home encourages focus and a healthy learning rhythm.

Microsoft Teams is the online platform where each class teacher uploads lesson resources, including homework. This provides students with an online space to access homework, view class materials for revision before assessments, and catch up on any content if they are absent from a lesson. 

While parents do not have direct access to Microsoft Teams, resources can be viewed via students’ laptops. We encourage parents to regularly support their child by ensuring these resources are accessed for homework, revision, and any missed lessons. Please contact me if you require any further information.

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

• Matt Miller, Head of Senior School
• John Sullivan 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