Deputy Principal 

Year 10 Exams

The Year 10s commenced their exams this Tuesday and are to be commended on the manner and maturity in which they have begun this period. Whilst lots of attention can be drawn to the exams themselves, the real focus is on the work habits and learning routines applied within each lesson. For students who are up to date, regularly ask questions, seek clarification, and are actively engaged with their learning, the exam becomes less confronting. For it essentially reflects your approach throughout the year to date. Good study habits in the form of regular homework, research within assessment tasks and being conscious of the feedback from your teachers all lead to successful outcomes.

As you would be aware our Year 10 students are returning home at the conclusion of each exam. This model which was adopted at the end of last year is more in line with the senior years framework and will be how senior secondary College’s conduct exam weeks. We hope that boys are utilising this time to the best of their ability to best prepare for their upcoming exams. We also acknowledge that any challenging period has the potential to build our resilience, as we work through, plan for, and support our boys through a traditionally challenging time. Results are always a reflection of attitude and commitment towards your goals. I wish every young man all the very best as they progress through our exam week.

We Belong to a Connected, Engaged and Caring Community

One of the things I admire about our College is the vast array of opportunities presented to our young men. This can only occur however, through dedicated staff members sharing their gifts and talents as they work with the young men in their care. Mountain biking each Thursday after school is but one example, with so many boys participating under the experienced eye of Mr Aitken. As I observed the mountain bike crew a couple of weeks ago mid-ride here was Mr Aitken leading the pack, despite having been up the mountain all day with our Year 8 students. Students jostled for positions behind him as this line of bikes moved silently along the track behind the automotive lab.  At the rear of the pack, I spotted Mr Maxwell in hot pursuit. In my time at St Virgil’s College, I think you would struggle to find two better examples for our young men to follow;  two gentlemen Mr Aitken and Mr Maxwell. Both of these gentle-men have an incredible ability to generate rapport and create positive working relationships with their students. 

As a final message I encourage all of our boys to simply get involved and stay connected. Whether that’s mountain biking, choir or chess club, such opportunities will generate a greater appreciation for the College, your peers and yourself.