Delahey Campus Term 3, September 2026

The past few weeks have been another busy and engaging period at the Delahey Campus with students participating in a wide range of learning, wellbeing, sporting and co-curricular opportunities, both within and beyond the classroom.

It has also been an important time for students as they look ahead to their future learning and career pathways. Year 11 students have submitted their subject preferences for 2027, marking an important step in shaping their senior secondary studies. Meanwhile, Year 12 students attended a VTAC information session and established their VTAC accounts, an essential part of their Year 12 program as they begin exploring the many opportunities and pathways available to them beyond secondary school.

Many of these activities are highlighted in greater detail throughout this edition of the newsletter, with others to feature in our next edition. Collectively, they demonstrate the breadth of experiences available to our students and the important role these opportunities play in providing a rich and engaging secondary education. Excursions, camps, competitions and specialist programs enable students to apply their learning in authentic settings, encounter new perspectives, deepen their understanding and develop important skills including independence, collaboration, resilience and confidence.

None of these opportunities happen without considerable planning and commitment. We sincerely thank the many staff who organise, lead and support these experiences, often contributing significant time beyond the classroom to make them possible. We also thank our students for the positive and respectful way they engage with these opportunities, and our parents and carers for their ongoing support.

Connecting with Compassion -Arcare Hillside PDS Project

A truly inspiring Year 12 VCE VM PDS project has been undertaken by Holly Bordieri, Madison Laskey, Harrison Kortelainen and Du Tran of 12 H, who have gone above and beyond to create meaningful connections with residents at Arcare Hillside.

Across three planned sessions, they facilitated a range of engaging activities, including Bingo, music performances and, most importantly, spending quality time with residents and sharing in their experiences.

This initiative reflects a genuine understanding that community engagement is about more than activities, it is about connection, companionship and making people feel valued. Through the time, care and empathy they have invested, they have created an opportunity to bring enjoyment, conversation and meaningful connection to the residents.

Keeping the 2026 Soccer Vibe Alive!

While PDS projects are being undertaken, the Year 11 and 12 students are continuing to bring the 2026 soccer vibe to life through exciting lunchtime soccer tournaments.

These tournaments are part of the students’ PDS projects, combining project-based learning with sport, teamwork and community engagement. They are bringing students together through fun, laughter, friendly competition and magical moments, creating a positive and energetic atmosphere throughout the term.

The 2026 soccer vibe continues, connecting learning, leadership, teamwork and a love of the game!

Wear it Purple Day

Student leaders organised Wear It Purple Day to promote inclusion, acceptance and belonging across the school community, with the support of Student Engagement and Wellbeing Coordinator, Mr Constable. A range of meaningful activities were facilitated, alongside opportunities for students to write messages of support and encouragement. The Study Centre was filled with kindness, positivity and a strong sense of community as everyone came together to celebrate diversity and demonstrate a commitment to ensuring all members of the school community feel valued, respected and included.

English KLA Professional Learning with Mr Ross Huggard

Members of the English KLA at Copperfield were recently fortunate to be guided by Mr Ross Huggard, a highly experienced VCE English teacher, assessor, consultant and author.

With more than 40 years’ experience in English education and over 37 years as a VCE English Year 12 assessor, including more than a decade as an Assistant Chief Assessor, Mr. Huggard brings an exceptional depth of expertise to the subject. He has also authored widely used VCE English textbooks and guides and is a long-standing member of the Victorian Association for the Teaching of English Council.

His practical insights into curriculum, assessment and effective teaching provided valuable professional learning for the team and will support our continued focus on improving student outcomes

Impact Apprentices Visit Delahey VET Electrotechnology Students

Students in the VET Electrotechnology program at Delahey recently welcomed representatives from Impact Apprentices, who visited the campus to provide valuable information about electrical apprenticeship and employment opportunities.

The session gave students an insight into the pathways available following their VET studies, including the opportunity to combine practical industry experience with formal training through an apprenticeship. Students also gained an understanding of the application process, workplace expectations and the skills valued within the electrical industry.

The visit provided an important link between VET learning and future employment, encouraging students to consider the range of opportunities available within the electrotechnology sector.

We sincerely thank Impact Apprentices for engaging with our students and supporting them to make informed decisions about their future career pathways. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr Warren Powell, VET Teacher, for his guidance and support.

Taking Centre Stage: School of Rock

Congratulations to the entire cast and crew of School of Rock on an outstanding production.

Three nights and one matinee were truly fantastic. The energy throughout the theatre was incredible, the atmosphere was electric, and the students absolutely shone on stage.

Productions of this calibre do not happen without dedication and commitment. They are the result of countless hours of rehearsal, hard work, perseverance and, most importantly, a shared passion for bringing the production to life. Seeing the finished result, particularly watching these young people give their all on stage, makes every minute of that effort worthwhile.

There was an immense sense of pride in watching the students perform. Their confidence, energy, talent and genuine enjoyment were infectious. It was wonderful to see them embrace the opportunity, challenge themselves and demonstrate just how much they are capable of achieving.

It was also particularly special to see alumni who have previously appeared in school productions now returning as members of the crew or attending as proud supporters in the audience. Seeing that connection continue beyond their time on stage is a wonderful reflection of the community that these productions create. It was equally heartening to see so many staff members in the audience, supporting the students and celebrating their achievements.

And, in true School of Rock spirit: “One great rock show can change the world.”

To all the staff involved in bringing this production together, thank you for creating an environment where young people can grow, develop their confidence, take risks, have fun and discover their potential. That is something to be incredibly proud of.

To every member of the cast and crew, congratulations on this remarkable achievement, take a bow!

VCE VM Students Shine at Work Placement

Our VCE Vocational Major students have been making a fantastic impression during their work placements. From hospitality and retail to trades and community services, students have embraced the opportunity to gain real-world experience and develop valuable workplace skills.

Their commitment, confidence and willingness to learn have been recognised by employers, with many students demonstrating excellent communication, teamwork and initiative.

We are incredibly proud of our VCE VM students for representing our school so positively and taking an important step towards their future careers.

Alumni News

Science Week at Copperfield College

Science Week at Copperfield College was a wonderful opportunity for our students to connect with accomplished alumni and leading professionals from the science and health sectors. Through their stories and experiences, our guest speakers provided valuable insights into the diverse pathways available and inspired students to consider the many possibilities that lie ahead.

At the Sydenham Campus on Monday 17 August, students heard from Dr Diana Stojanovski, Class of 1997, from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Melbourne. Dr Stojanovski shared insights into her career and experiences within the field, encouraging students to explore the many opportunities available in science.

At the Kings Park Campus, students welcomed Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos, Class of 1987, Professor of Immunology, and Chad Lazaro, Class of 2023, who is currently studying a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne. Professor Apostolopoulos also toured the campus with the College Principal, reflecting fondly on her time as a student and sharing her memories of the College while reflecting on how significantly it has evolved over the years.

At the Delahey Campus, students heard from Navdeep Kaur, Class of 2013, Senior Orthoptist, Clinical Educator and Researcher, and from Steven Haas, Class of 1993, Medical Science Liaison and Pharmacist. Their experiences highlighted the diverse career opportunities available within science and health and demonstrated how individual interests and passions can shape a rewarding career.

Across all three campuses, our students were inspired by the honesty and enthusiasm of our alumni and guest speakers. They spoke openly about the challenges they had encountered throughout their careers and emphasised that challenges are a natural part of any journey. They also reminded students that success is not simply measured by achieving a particular goal, but by finding purpose, fulfilment and enjoyment in what you do.

We extend our sincere thanks to all of our alumni and guest speakers for returning to Copperfield College and sharing their knowledge, experiences and career journeys with our students. Their stories showcased the many pathways into science and health and reinforced an important message: “the future can take many directions, and with passion, perseverance and a genuine love of what you do, every student has the potential to make a meaningful difference”.

Bronwen Ch’ng Forever in Our Hearts

It is with great sadness that we extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Bronwen Ch’ng on her unexpected passing.

Bronwen was a valued and respected member of the Copperfield College community for many years. As a Librarian at the Delahey Campus, she touched the lives of many students, colleagues and families through her dedication, warmth and love of learning.

Bronwen was a woman with many interests and passions. She had a wonderful love of reading, theatre, music, lacrosse, creating and gardening. These interests reflected her creativity, curiosity and appreciation of the many joys and experiences that life had to offer. Her enthusiasm and genuine interest in others will be fondly remembered by all those who knew her. Her passing will be deeply felt by all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

The stories she shared, the lives she touched and the memories she created will remain with us always. Like a cherished book, her story will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Bronwyn’s family, friends, colleagues and all those who are mourning her loss at this incredibly difficult time.

May Bronwen’s memory be eternal, and may the love, friendship and memories she leaves behind bring comfort and strength to her family and to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Rest peacefully, Bronwen. Your story continues in the hearts of those you leave behind.

Wishing everyone a safe, restful and enjoyable term break. We look forward to welcoming you back for a positive, productive and successful Term 4.

Ms. Soula Dedes and Mr. Nick Hooper

Principal Class Team- Delahey Campus

Important Dates