Welcome Back to Term 4听
As we begin Term 4, I warmly welcome all students, families and staff back for what is always a busy, exciting and rewarding term. The final term brings with it a unique energy. The days are longer, the weather is warmer and the pace inevitably begins to accelerate as we work towards the many milestones, celebrations and achievements that mark the end of the school year.听
I would like to acknowledge and thank our Year 12 students for the commitment they showed during the practice examinations conducted over the school holidays. These examinations are not designed to be a final judgement of performance. Rather, they provide an opportunity to practise the conditions, routines, time management and strategies required for success in the real examination environment. The most valuable question following a practice exam is not “What score did I receive?” but “What have I learned about how I can improve my approach?” We encourage students to use the feedback gained through this experience to guide their final weeks of preparation.听
Indeed, the weeks ahead are particularly significant for this group of students. The Year 12 students are entering a period that is often characterised by a mixture of excitement, anticipation and, understandably, a few nerves. The upcoming Graduation Mass (Thursday 15 October at St. Mary鈥檚 Basilica) provides an important occasion for our community to gather in thanksgiving, recognising the journey our students have undertaken and the many people who have supported them along the way. I encourage all Year 12 parents and carers to attend and celebrate this special occasion with us.听
Beyond the celebrations lies the final stretch of preparation for the VCE examinations. These weeks are an opportunity for students to focus their energies, refine their understanding and approach their studies with purpose and determination. As the saying goes, nothing comes of nothing, and it is true that hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard.听 This is a student鈥檚 time to commit themselves to do what it takes to ensure that they meet the exams as prepared as they can be.听 We would remind you that Year 12 classes continue to run in the lead up to each exam so students can avail themselves of their teachers鈥� support at school.听 This is a wonderful opportunity for expert assistance and one we encourage students to take.听听
For students in Years 7 to 11, the message is perhaps less dramatic but no less important: steady as she goes. Consistent effort, strong attendance, engagement in learning and a commitment to finishing the year well will ensure a successful conclusion to 2026 and provide a strong foundation for the opportunities that lie ahead.听
I would also like to recognise the outstanding work of our Arts Department. Recent Solo Performance Evenings and the VCE Art Exhibition showcased the extraordinary creativity, talent and dedication of our students. The quality of work on display was truly impressive, reflecting not only the skill and commitment of the young artists and performers themselves, but also the expertise, encouragement and care provided by our Arts teachers. Thank you to all who contributed to these wonderful celebrations of learning and creativity.听
Finally, as I commence the term in the role of Acting Principal, I would like to acknowledge and thank Liz Sullivan, who has stepped into the position of Acting Assistant Principal. Liz’s leadership, experience and deep commitment to our learning community will be greatly appreciated during this time.听听
I wish all members of our community a successful and fulfilling start to the term.听听
Jo Ryan听
Acting Principal听
听
