Oak News

Principal's Report

Supporting children and young people after a distressing event

Following the tragic events in Christchurch recently our thoughts are with the people of New Zealand—the loved ones of those who died in the horrific attacks and individuals recovering from injury. The effect of such a tragedy stretches far beyond the original impact: it extends across the globe and will be felt by many for years to come.

 

I appreciate that some members of our school community have watched the footage and been impacted by the images.  Others may need reassurance and support to feel safe as a malicious act of terror can affect young and vulnerable minds.  

 

Tips for parents and carers on supporting young people and helping them feel safe are on the following website: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/health/mentalhealth/Pages/publicincident.aspx?utm_source=email+marketing+Mailigen&utm_campaign=Direct+send+ministerial+message&utm_medium=email

Reflection of Term 1 2019

We should never underestimate how busy schools are! As well as classroom instruction, another level of commitment by staff provide opportunities for students to participate in a range of experiences:

  • Sport
  • Music performances
  • Auditions
  • Call backs and casting of crew for Aladdin
  • Expanded enrichment programs
  • Student leadership opportunities
  • Harmony Day
  • Cultural Food Festival
  • Forums for the Oakleigh Education Plan and opportunities for the future.

A power of work goes into providing these experiences and I thank teachers and support staff who devote their time and energy to organising these  activities for our students.

GRIP student leadership conference

Recently our student leaders, including College Captains and members of the Student Representative Council (SRC) with Ms Pelitidis, attended the GRIP Student Leadership Conference at the Melbourne Conference Centre. This unique student-centred event, held annually, focused on developing school leaders. Students participated in hands-on workshops building  their leadership and communication skills, as well as networking with peers from other schools. The College supports our student leaders attending this program, recognizing the key role they play within our College community.  We look forward to our students applying what they learnt at the conference as they develop into confident, energised and inclusive young leaders

At every opportunity, both within South Oakleigh College and the wider education community, I am proud of the amazing group of young people in our school. Their actions and behaviour lead me to believe they will be future leaders in our wider community.

Staff Professional Development - Our Learning Community in the 21st Century

On 26 March all staff participated in a full day PD. The day highlighted the importance of investing in our own learning—building on collegiate support and practice to make South Oakleigh College the best it can be for every student. Our Learning Community in the 21st Century was the theme, bringing focus to the principles of innovation and excellence which will drive our direction over the next few years. 

Our day was about engaging with how technology and design thinking is used to build powerful learning. Our presenters included our own staff: Mr Tim Curtis on the SMALLab learning, Mr Aiden Prewett on TV Studio and Design Thinking, as well as outside experts: Mr Neil Carmona-Vickery,  Acting Director of Monash Tech School, and Ms Rowena Ulbrick from Microsoft Office 365.

This was an opportunity to learn from each other and build staff capability within our learning community.

Together, we make the difference.

College Council Elections

For the College Council Election process  the number of nominations matched the number of vacancies, thus, no election was required. 

I wish to congratulate the following parents and DET staff and look forward to working with them.

Parent and Community Representatives: 

Mr Andrew Robinson

Ms Caryn Vincent

Ms Ruth Buckland

DET Category

Mr Mark Picone

Mr Adrian Hajra

Ms Kelly Garrett

Student Representatives

Andrew Leap

Cameron Robinson

I would like to express my thanks to parents, community members, staff and students for nominating to be part of our College Council, a structure that plays an important role in our school's governance.

 I wish everyone a safe break and enjoyable Easter with family and friends.

 

Ms Helen Koziaris

Principal