We hope all members of the Geelong community enjoyed some quality family time over the holidays. While the finals didn’t end the way Geelong supporters might have expected, there is still plenty of pride to be taken in the team’s gallant efforts. They did manage to defeat my team, Hawthorn. With the arrival of Spring, longer days and (hopefully!) warmer weather, it’s refreshing to feel the change in seasons.

As always, families are encouraged to contact their child’s teachers or coordinators if they have any concerns about progress. The College values a team approach to education and recognises the critical role parents and guardians play in every student’s success.

Term 4 is always a busy period, as we wrap up the 2025 school year and begin planning for 2026.

Term 4 Key Dates

Year 12: The Final Countdown

The final days of secondary schooling are approaching for our Year 12 students. At present, VCE VM students are completing interviews and finalising coursework to meet their outcome. The VCE VM interviews were a great celebration of the years' work and the confidence and professionalism the students showed was a credit to not only their VCE VM teachers, but all of their teachers throughout their schooling. The VCE-scored students are attending revision classes, which will continue right up until their exams, a practice not matched by any other school in Geelong. The College believes that this practice has had a significant impact in helping the students prepare for their exams in a supportive environment surrounded by like-minded students.

We are also very pleased to report 100% attendance at the recent practice exams held over the holidays, with the only absence due to a confirmed illness. VCE students will be at school up until their VCAA exams. They will spend this time revising in class and will also have the opportunity to work in study groups with their peers, engaging in peer-based learning.

I wish all VCE students the very best for their upcoming examinations. Staff are ready to support them, and I strongly encourage students to take full advantage of this assistance to help them prepare and achieve success.

Finalising Subject Selection and Booklists

During Term 3, the College conducted an extensive subject selection process. This included consultations with teachers, reviews of assessments, and presentations on careers and subject pathways. The process was designed to ensure students made informed decisions about their future studies.

In the coming weeks, students will receive confirmation of their 2026 subject selections and begin making their booklist choices. If any concerns arise, they are encouraged to speak with their Sub School Manager for clarification and support.

Subject choices should align with both curriculum requirements and future career pathways. While we understand that interests may change, students must discuss their decisions with staff, parents, and friends to ensure they select subjects that best support their goals and aspirations.

Multicultural Festival

Next Friday marks one of the most significant days on the College calendar — Multicultural Day, a vibrant celebration of our school’s diversity. Students will proudly wear traditional dress representing their cultural heritage, and the day will showcase an exciting mix of music, dance, workshops, arts and crafts, amusement rides, and delicious food from around the globe.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work of all staff and students who contribute to making this event such a success each year. In particular, I want to recognise Suzanne Henry, whose leadership and dedication have been central to the planning and development of the day. Multicultural Day is not only a highlight for the College, but a celebration embraced by the wider NGSC community.

Exams 7-11

Students in Years 7 to 11 are now preparing for their end-of-year exams. These assessments act as necessary stepping stones towards their final Year 12 exams and, for many, future University studies.

The exams are intentionally designed to help students practise responding to questions while becoming familiar with the exam environment and procedures. This approach reduces anxiety and builds confidence over time. They will also provide teachers with information on how well students have understood the content.

The College has seen steady improvement in VCE exam results each year, in part due to this structured, progressive preparation.

Be Bold Be Heard Forum

Last week, I had the pleasure of seeing female students from four schools prepare for the upcoming Be Bold Be Heard Forum, which they will be leading for the first time. Students from North Geelong Secondary College, Geelong High School, Newcomb Secondary College, and Sacred Heart College came together to plan the day’s activities and then took charge of their implementation.

It was inspiring to witness first hand the skills, leadership, and confidence that Be Bold Be Heard continues to foster in our students. This marks an exciting next step in their development and it is particularly pleasing to see the event evolve into a fully student-led experience.