Assistant Principal Report Senior School 

Term 2 Highlights

This term has been a tapestry of learning, growth, and community spirit, and I am delighted to share some of the highlights with you.

Our Year 12 students embarked on their annual camp, a valuable experience fostering resilience and a sense of unity as they navigate their final year. Camp provided our staff and students with a welcome opportunity to connect outside the classroom and build lasting memories.

During the same week, our Year 11 cohort engaged in Futures Week. This program offered invaluable insights into various career pathways, post-secondary education options, and the skills necessary to thrive in the world beyond school. We were thrilled to see their proactive engagement in the visits to universities around Melbourne and with our guest presenters at the college.

This momentum continued into National Careers Week, which saw students attend the Career Expo which was a one-stop shop for our students to explore career information and guidance. The expo connected students with a range of fantastic resources to help them achieve their dream pathway.  We were thrilled to welcome Dr Tayla Vernon to the school.  Dr Vernon is both an osteopath and Parkdale SC alumni and we have received very positive feedback from the students who attended her masterclass.

Ensuring the health and well-being of our students remains a priority, and we recently completed the Year 10 immunisation program. We appreciate the support of parents and guardians in ensuring the smooth delivery of this important health initiative.

A highlight of the term was undoubtedly this week’s annual football game against the Tjindu Academy. This highly anticipated match showcased not only the sporting prowess of our students but also the strong spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect. Parkdale’s Senior Boys and Girls Aussie Rules teams competed against the Tjindu Academy from South Australia at RSEA Park. All students represented Parkdale with distinction, demonstrating commendable attitude and endeavour. The day began with both groups coming together for a Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony, and Gift Exchange. The boys' and girls' matches were tightly contested and played in great spirits.  We extend our gratitude to Aunty Katrina Amon for her work in organising the day, the St Kilda Football Club for hosting, and Tjindu Academy for making the trip to Victoria to compete. 

This week we have been lucky to watch the outstanding Year 12 Theatre Studies play The Fox on the Fairway. The students' creativity, dedication, and talent shone brightly on stage, delivering a captivating performance that was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. Congratulations to the cast and Ms Elise Tebbutt for bringing this production to life.

UNIFORM

As the weather is getting colder, it’s timely to revisit what our policy so students can stay warm whilst meeting expectations:

• All students are to be in full College uniform when travelling to and from school, and when attending excursions and incursions

• Students out of uniform must bring a note from their parent/guardian explaining the reason for being out of uniform and must carry an ‘Out of Uniform’ pass issued by their Tutor Teacher.

• Navy pants are part of the uniform, however, tracksuit pants are not.  Our sports uniform can be worn in physical education classes, sport and in any inter-college sporting events. 

• Students must wear a school shirt underneath their school jumper. 

• Official College socks to be worn with all uniform options (white with navy/green/gold stripe).

• ONLY Standard plain black leather polishable lace-up school shoes – Please check below or in the student organiser and website for allowable styles

We appreciate your support in ensuring your child is wearing the correct uniform.

Year 10 and 11 Exams

The Year 11 Exam period starts on Tuesday 10 June for all students in Years 10 and 11.  All Unit 1 Subjects will have an exam and it is expected that all students will attend their exams unless they are unwell. 

Changing Subjects - Year 10

Year 10 students are able to request a subject change from Monday 26 May.  Forms can be collected from Mr Petersen.  Parents/guardians are required to sign the request form. We cannot guarantee that subject requests will be met.  Class changes come into effect on Monday 30 June (after work experience). 

Changing Subjects - Year 11

Year 11 students are able to request a subject change from Monday 2 June.  Forms can be collected from Mrs Treverton.  Parents/guardians are required to sign the request form. We cannot guarantee that subject requests will be met.  Class changes come into effect on Monday 23 June (after exams).  

GAT - Tuesday 17 June

All students who are enrolled in one or more VCE or scored VCE VET Unit 3–4 sequence, are expected to complete Sections A and B of the GAT. This is a compulsory assessment and it cannot be rescheduled for any reason. The GAT is held on Tuesday 17th June in the senior centre. No special study is needed for the GAT, however students can view sample questions and past GAT papers on the VCAA website. For more information on the GAT, please click on the LINK.

There are no Year 11 or 12 classes or exams running on the day of the GAT. Students must wear full and correct school uniform.