Principal's Report
Last week, as we farewelled our Year 12s in their final Valedictory Assembly, we recognised six years of growth and change and how this will stand them in good stead for the challenges and triumphs that await them all. We have a lot to be thankful for at Ballarat High School and the calibre of our students is not something that we take for granted. We know that their development rests upon strong partnerships between school and home and the turnout from families and the sheer pride that they felt towards their child acted as a reminder of what this school is all about.
Watching our Year 12 students receive their sashes, surrounded by their peers, teachers, and families, reminded us all, that education is not only about what we learn, but who we become along the way. Each handshake, smile and word of thanks represented years of effort, friendship and shared experience — a journey that has shaped every one of our students into the young adults they are today. Life will always present us with challenges, but we hope that the lessons learned at school help each student overcome anything that they face moving forward.
From the Induction Assembly in February to this point, this year’s graduates have grown immensely — not only in their academic pursuits, but in character and compassion. The VCE students, now immersed in their final examinations, have shown remarkable determination and focus. Throughout the year, they have demonstrated what it means to strive for excellence while maintaining balance, supporting one another and remaining true to their values and who they each are as human beings.
Our VCE Vocational Major (VM) students have also achieved outstanding success. Their hands-on projects, community partnerships and workplace learning have demonstrated innovation and initiative. Whether through service to the school, local enterprises, or creative endeavours, these students have shown what it means to apply knowledge with purpose. Many have contributed to projects that will continue to benefit the school and wider community for years to come — from our cafe to community events and mentoring younger students. Their achievements remind us that growth takes many forms — it can be measured not only in grades and scores, but in the skills, confidence and connections built along the way. Thank you to Elise, Harry, Emity and Charlie for leading this all-important group so well. The way that all our leaders have made a difference will resonate for years to come.
The 2025 School Leadership Group has been another source of immense pride. Their energy, empathy and dedication to fostering a positive school culture have left a lasting legacy. From organising fundraising events and leading assemblies to promoting wellbeing and student voice, they have worked tirelessly to make our school a place where everyone feels heard and included. Under their guidance, our community has flourished — with initiatives that promote inclusion, school spirit and a deep sense of belonging. They have modelled what leadership looks like when grounded in respect, responsibility and pride — the very values that define our school.
Perhaps the most enduring gift this graduating class leaves behind is a culture of acceptance and kindness. In countless small moments — advocating for inclusivity, supporting a classmate through a tough day, or expressing gratitude to a teacher — they have demonstrated the quiet strength of compassion. The spirit of unity they leave behind is one that cannot be measured by awards or certificates but will be remembered in the way students continue to treat one another in the years to come.
As we bid farewell to our Year 12s, we also turn our gaze toward the future. To our Year 11 students, soon to take up the mantle of leadership: the roots of respect, responsibility and pride now rest in your care. Continue to nurture them with integrity and purpose. You have watched this graduating class grow and lead with grace — now it is your time to step forward, to continue their legacy and to shape your own. The path before you has been shaped by those who came before — but it is yours to walk, to grow and to make your own.
And as much as the collective have left their mark on our community and culture, there has been many moments of excellence that remind us of who we are and what we can aspire to. Though so many students will be recognised for their endeavour in our upcoming Awards Evening, later on in this term, I wanted to conclude by recognising our Year 12 students who hold their age group award for sports. Like their peers, these students have lived our school values and excelled in their chosen field. I hope that all of our departing Year 12 students find success in whatever they pursue and fulfillment in the paths they choose.
BHS Age Group Champions
Boys Athletics Champion - Will Marshall
Girls Athletics Champion - Jessica Tumohe
Boys Swimming Champion - Hamish Mathison
Girls Swimming Champion - Claudia Ellis
Boys Cross Country Champion - Connor O'Dwyer
Girls Cross Country Champion - Ashleigh Carnes
Stephan Fields
Principal