Year 12 - Eyes on the Prize
Year 11 - Gearing Up for the Final Year
Joel McDougall
Senior Sub School Leader
We’re already halfway through Term 3, and the pace is picking up fast in the Senior School. Between SACs, subject selections, planning for the end of the year, and still trying to sneak in some kind of social life, our students have been keeping us (and themselves) very busy. The good news? We’re seeing plenty of determination, hard work, and leadership from our senior students — and that’s exactly what will set you up for success when the finish line comes into view.
Year 12 – Eyes on the Prize
- Sign-in / Sign-out:
Arriving late or leaving early? This is your friendly reminder that the sign-in/sign-out process isn’t optional — it’s how we keep track of you and meet our duty of care. Every time you come or go, check in at the office and show your ID card with the ISP sticker. Think of it as your “school passport” — no sticker, no smooth travel.
- Arriving During Recess:
If you’re lucky enough to start mid-morning, that’s great — but if you’re arriving during recess, be here early enough to get yourself settled before the bell. That means in the yard, bag away, ready for class… not jogging in with a half-eaten toasty as the second bell rings.
- Uniform Expectations:
Full school uniform. Every. Single. Day. Sports uniform is for when you’re doing sport — not when you just feel like wearing tracksuit pants. Boys — that means being clean-shaven. The “I’ll just grow it out” look might work after school, but for now, we’re keeping it sharp. Think of it this way — turning up looking professional is great practice for the world beyond school.
- Independent Study Periods (ISPs):
ISPs are a privilege, not a holiday. Use them wisely — in the Library, Common Room, or at home (if you’ve signed out properly). These periods are golden opportunities to get on top of work, revise, or catch up. Misuse them, and you risk losing them.
- Planning Ahead:
Holiday revision lecture dates and a full “rest of the year” calendar are coming soon. This will include practice exams, graduation events, and VCAA exam schedules so you and your family can plan around them.
Year 11 – Gearing Up for the Final Year
- Subject Selections:
You’ve made your choices for 2026 — well done! Choosing your Year 12 subjects isn’t easy, and we’ve seen students put real thought into their pathways. Now the challenge is to keep building the skills and work habits that will help you thrive next year. - Uniform Reminder:
Yes, it’s cold. No, hoodies are still not part of the uniform. Wear your school jumper or jacket — and if you’re feeling brave, remember that socks and the school skirt can still be worn without adding frostbite to your list of challenges. - Year 12 Jumper Orders:
The 2026 Year 12 jumper order window is closing soon. If you haven’t already tried one on, head to the Senior Sub School office, find your size, and record it with Miss Megan. Orders are available via the link on Google Classroom — don’t miss out and end up jumper-less next year.
Looking Ahead
The second half of Term 3 will disappear before we know it. Year 12s — you’ve got practice exams, holiday revision sessions, and the final sprint towards VCAA exams. Year 11s — your end-of-year exams and leadership applications are just around the corner. Families — we’ll publish a “Rest of Year” date guide very soon so you can map out what’s ahead.
Final Word
Senior years can feel like a juggling act — assessments, deadlines, work, sport, family, friends, and everything else life throws your way. The trick is to keep the balls in the air without letting them turn into bowling balls. Stay organised, show up ready, and keep giving your best.
Remember: you don’t have to be perfect — you just have to keep moving forward. The habits you build now will carry you well beyond the school gates. Let’s finish Term 3 strong, support each other, and make the last stretch of the year something to be proud of.
