Principal's Report
Term 3 Key Dates
Course Counselling
Well, winter is now well and truly upon us, and this cold weather certainly helps us appreciate the warmer months a little more.
It is with a heavy heart that I write this newsletter following the sad passing of Jimmy Onturk, the owner of Jimmy’z Cafe and a valued member of North Geelong Secondary College's community.
Jimmy's warm, engaging personality left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him. His friendly smile, generous nature and welcoming presence will be greatly missed by all who visited him for a coffee or lunch. He was much more than a familiar face in our community; he was a great supporter of our school and someone who genuinely cared about our students and staff.
Jimmy was an indelible part of the NGSC community, perhaps best symbolised by his enthusiastic participation in our annual Staff vs Students football match. His support also extended to sponsoring our school soccer program, reflecting his passion for providing opportunities for our students.
Below are photos of our Intermediate Boys Soccer Team, who competed in the Barwon Zone competition on Wednesday and were crowned champions. Before the team took to the field, there was conversation about Jimmy and the impact he had on our College community. In recognition of his passing, the boys wore black armbands throughout the day as a mark of respect. I would like to think they carried a little extra motivation with them, playing not only for themselves and the College, but also in honour of someone who had been such a passionate supporter of the program and our school community.
On behalf of the entire North Geelong Secondary College community, I extend our deepest condolences to Jimmy's family, friends and everyone who knew and loved him. He will be remembered with great fondness, and his contribution to our school community will not be forgotten.
I hope all our students had a restful and enjoyable break and have returned refreshed, ready for a productive and successful Term 3. This promises to be another busy term, with many opportunities for students to learn, grow and become actively involved in the life of the College.
As we begin the second half of the school year, it is an ideal time for students to reflect on their progress and set goals for the months ahead. We encourage parents and carers to spend time discussing these goals with their children, celebrating their achievements while also identifying areas for continued growth. By working together, we can help every student make the most of the opportunities ahead and finish the year on a positive note.
Thank you for your continued support of our College community. I look forward to another rewarding term and wish everyone a warm, healthy and successful few months ahead.
27/07- 31-/07 |
Year 10 Careers Week |
30/07-31/07 |
Year 10 Course Counselling |
07/08 |
Year 9 Course Counselling |
06/08 |
Parent /Teacher Conferences |
14/08 |
Year 8 Course Counselling |
21/8 |
Curriculum Day (no students required) |
18/09 |
Last Day of Term |
One of my favourite aspects of Term 3 is seeing the "lightbulb moments" for many of our Year 9 and 10 students as they begin to have greater input into their subject selections. They genuinely enjoy the independence this process provides, and for many, it is the first time they can see a clearer pathway to their future.
In the table above, you will find the dates for students' career guidance sessions and subject selection appointments. While these selections are not locked in immediately, they are influenced by peers' choices and overall demand for subjects. The College always endeavours to provide students with their preferred subject choices; however, this is sometimes limited by timetable constraints and class availability.
Assistant Principals' Report
Academic Pathways & Future Planning
Parent Teacher Conferences
Celebrating Diversity & Global Connections
Term 3 marks a pivotal period for our senior and middle school students as Course Counselling officially gets underway. Choosing a future pathway is an exciting milestone, but it requires careful reflection. As students begin selecting their subjects for 2027, we encourage them to thoroughly consider their individual capacity, past academic performance, inherent potential, and, most importantly, what their desired career or tertiary pathway realistically requires.
To kick off this process, our Year 9 and 10 students recently attended a Careers Expo on Thursday, 18th July. This expo was vital in highlighting the expectations, rigorous processes, and dedication required to succeed in the Vocational Major (VM) and Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). Looking ahead to next year, the school will be introducing a series of strategic steps designed to elevate academic rigour, ensuring all students are exceptionally well-prepared for the demands of their senior years.
Please note the key course counselling and career program dates below:
Please note, these are being held at school on Thursday 6th August. This is a great opportunity to:
Beyond academic excellence, our school community thrives on cultural diversity and global perspectives, both of which will be front and centre over the coming weeks.
Our dedicated Multicultural Committee will be meeting on Monday, 3rd August to dive deeper into the planning and logistics of our upcoming Multicultural Day celebrations. This event is a cornerstone of our school calendar, allowing us to value, respect, and celebrate the rich tapestry of backgrounds that make our student body so unique.
We are also thrilled to announce that during the week of 10th August, we will be hosting visiting students from our sister school in Izumiotsu, Japan. Cultural exchange programs like this provide invaluable global learning opportunities, fostering lifelong friendships, mutual understanding, and giving our students a firsthand look at global citizenship. We look forward to giving our Japanese guests a warm and vibrant welcome!
Senior School News
Welcome to Term 3
GAT - Well Done
Year 11 Exams
Reflecting on Semester 1 Results
Driving to School
Coursework Crunch Reflection
VCE VM - Term 3 Structured Workplace Learning Programs
Uniform Reminder
Year 12 Study Periods and Cancelled Classes
Welcome back to all our senior students and families. Hopefully everyone had the chance to rest, recharge and enjoy a break from alarms, uniforms and Compass notifications.
Term 3 is a really important one. Year 11 students are beginning Semester 2, while our Year 12 students are heading into the final stretch. It will get busy quickly, so starting well matters.
Good attendance, staying on top of coursework and asking for help early will make the term much easier than trying to fix everything later.
At the end of Term 2, our eligible students completed the GAT.
Students approached the day well and understood the importance of giving it their best effort. The GAT is not just another long day of testing. It can be used to support students if unexpected circumstances prevent them from sitting an end-of-year examination.
Well done to everyone who completed it and took the day seriously.
Year 11 students completed their Semester 1 exams at the end of last term.
The exams gave students valuable experience with revision, time management and formal examination conditions. The result is important, but the real value comes from looking at what worked, what did not and what can be improved next time.
Students should now use that feedback to make Semester 2 stronger.
Semester reports are a good chance to stop and take stock.
Students should be proud of what went well but also be honest about what may have held them back. Sometimes the issue is not ability. It might be attendance, organisation, unfinished coursework or leaving study until the night before.
The important question is: what will you do differently this term?
One small change, made consistently, can have a big impact. That might mean attending every class, using study periods properly, asking for help earlier or finally getting that folder organised.
Students driving to school must make sure all required permission forms have been completed.
They are also expected to drive responsibly, park correctly and follow sign-in and sign-out procedures.
Students are reminded that they are not permitted to transport other students to or from VET programs. Driving to school is a privilege and depends on students showing the responsibility we expect from senior students.
Term 3 starts quickly, so now is the time to make sure everything is in order.
Students should check Compass, review teacher feedback and follow up any incomplete coursework or redemption tasks. Outstanding work does not magically disappear over the holidays, unfortunately.
A quick conversation with a teacher now can prevent a much bigger problem later.
A number of our VCE VM students will begin or continue Structured Workplace Learning programs during Term 3.
These programs give students the chance to develop practical skills, experience real workplace expectations and explore possible career pathways.
Students are expected to attend every scheduled day, arrive on time, dress appropriately and communicate professionally with employers.
If a student is unable to attend, both the workplace and the school must be contacted. A placement day is part of the student’s school program and needs to be treated just as seriously as a normal school day.
We are looking forward to seeing students build their confidence, skills and workplace experience.
Winter has definitely arrived, but unfortunately hoodies are still not part of the approved school uniform.
Students must attend in full school uniform and meet the College’s grooming expectations, including being clean-shaven.
We know cold mornings make the doona a very strong opponent, but our senior students are expected to lead by example.
Eligible Year 12 students may access Individual Study Period arrangements when they have a study period at the beginning or end of the day. Students must continue to sign in and out correctly, attend all classes on time and use study periods productively. A cancelled class also does not automatically mean students can leave school. Students must follow the instructions provided by their teacher or the Senior Sub School. Term 3 will move quickly. Starting well, staying organised and asking for help early will place students in the best position for a successful semester.
Middle School News
Planning for the Future - Careers and Course Counselling
Parent/Teacher Interviews
Looking Ahead
Middle School News
Welcome back to Term 3! I hope all of our students and families enjoyed a well-earned break and are feeling refreshed for another exciting and productive term. Semester 2 is already off to a fantastic start, and with it comes some very important opportunities for our Year 9 and Year 10 students as they begin planning for their future pathways.
Over the coming weeks, our Year 9 and Year 10 students will be actively involved in careers education and course counselling as they begin making decisions about their studies for 2027.
This process commenced on Thursday 16 July with a two-period careers presentation, where students were introduced to the wide range of courses and pathways available at North Geelong Secondary College. Students also received important information about the expectations of Year 10 and Year 11, along with an overview of the opportunities available through our senior school programs.
These sessions are designed to help students make informed decisions about their future learning by considering their interests, strengths, career aspirations and post-school pathways. Throughout the term, students will continue to receive guidance and individual support as they work through the course selection process with their families and teachers.
Choosing subjects is an exciting milestone, and we encourage students to take the time to explore all available options, ask questions and seek advice before making their final selections.
A reminder that Parent/Teacher Interviews will be held on Thursday 6 August.
With Semester 1 reports now available, these interviews provide an invaluable opportunity for students, parents and guardians to discuss academic progress, celebrate successes, and identify strategies for continued improvement during Semester 2.
While we encourage every family to attend, these interviews are particularly important for our Year 10 families as students continue working towards the successful completion of their courses.
At Year 10, students are assessed on a Satisfactory (S) / Not Satisfactory (N) basis, mirroring the VCE processes. To achieve a satisfactory result, students must demonstrate consistent engagement with their learning by attending classes regularly, completing classwork, homework and assessment tasks, and making a genuine effort throughout the semester.
Students who have concerns relating to attendance, incomplete coursework, missed assessment tasks, or a lack of engagement may have already received a Not Satisfactory (N) result for a subject. These 'N' result/s may affect a student's ability to progress to the next year level, making it essential that concerns are identified and addressed as early as possible.
Parent/Teacher Interviews provide an ideal opportunity to discuss concerns, develop strategies for improvement, and ensure students are well supported for the remainder of the year. We strongly encourage all Year 10 students who received a Not Satisfactory (N) result in semester 1 to attend with a parent or guardian so that everyone has a clear understanding of expectations and the steps required for a successful outcome.
Term 3 is an exciting and important term for our Middle Sub School. Along with continuing to build on the learning from Semester 1, students will be making important decisions about their future studies and pathways.
I encourage all students to approach this term with enthusiasm, remain organised, seek support when needed and continue striving to do their personal best. I look forward to working alongside our students and families as we support them through these important milestones and celebrate their achievements throughout the term.
Junior School News
Welcome back to Term 3!
Year 7 Zoo Excursion
Uniform Reminder
We hope all our students and families enjoyed a restful and enjoyable break and are feeling refreshed for the exciting term ahead.
As we begin the new semester, we encourage all families to take some time to read through their child's Semester 1 report. These reports provide valuable information about your child's learning, achievements and areas for future growth. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your child's progress further, we encourage you to book a Parent-Teacher Interview. Working together helps ensure every student is supported to achieve their best.
Our Year 7 students are looking forward to their upcoming zoo excursion in Week 8. This exciting learning experience will provide students with the opportunity to explore wildlife, conservation and habitats while supporting their classroom learning.
If you have not already done so, please ensure your child's permission form is completed and returned by the due date. Prompt return of permission forms will help us finalise arrangements and ensure all students can participate.
As the weather continues to cool, we would like to remind families of the importance of wearing the correct school uniform. Students should ensure they are dressed appropriately for the season and are wearing approved school uniform items each day.
Uniform: Students are to ensure they are checking their timetables so that they are wearing the correct uniform each day. Any notes for incorrect uniform/uniform items need to be received by sub-school before the beginning of period one.
Academic Uniform:
PE Uniform:
We look forward to another fantastic term of learning, growth and opportunities for all our students. Thank you for your continued support, and we wish everyone a successful and enjoyable Term 3.
Connect News
Below is a resource families can use to discuss mindfulness at home and how families can use movement to manage their mental health.
It might be helpful for families to manage the return to school and the stresses it can cause.
At the end of last term, we asked students to shout out the people in their lives who helped them through the first half of the school year. We received over 200 shout outs for friends, family, teachers, school staff and other important people. It is great to see our students show gratitude for the important people in their lives and appreciation for their actions.
https://www.ngsc.vic.edu.au/uploads/Shout-Out-Wall-6-per-page-1_2026-07-15-025024_wwvu.pdf
NGSC are taking part in the Barwon Region Student Voice Conference, an event fully organised by student leaders from 10 schools in the Barwon Region. The Conference will take place on the 17th of September and will involve over 150 school leaders. The idea of the event is to highlight common issues at schools in our community and get student leaders to come up with student centred ideas to tackle these issues in schools.
Our Year 10 & 11 Captains - Theams Murugan, Gabriel Brown, Ayush Singh & Caleb Stephenson attending a planning day on the 15th of July at the Geelong Tech School and represented the school in an amazing manner.
The Conference is seeking community sponsors to support the main conference in September - to provide the greatest opportunities for students taking part to create student-led ideas to make their schools a better place for all students.
If you are local business who would be interested in providing some support, financially or with resources, could you please contact Tom Grayson - Thomas.grayson@education.vic.gov.au
Sports News
SSV Geelong Region Champions
Congratulations to our NGSC Excellence in Sport Intermediate Soccer team, who were crowned SSV Geelong Region Champions on Wednesday after an outstanding tournament.
The boys won every match on their way to the title without conceding a single goal. They defeated Belmont High School 3–0 in the semi-final before overcoming Western Heights College 2–0 in the final.
The day also held special meaning as the team paid tribute to the late Jimmy Onturk, a valued supporter of NGSC and the EIS Program. Jimmy's generosity helped provide our playing kits, proudly featuring the Jimmy'z Cafe logo. The determination, teamwork and respect shown by the boys throughout the day were a fitting way to honour his contribution.
Congratulations to all players. We wish the team all the best as they progress to the SSV Western Metro Finals in Week 3!
Other School News
Multicultural Festival Poster Competition Winner
Battle of the Bands
LOTE News
Our school proudly came together to celebrate NAIDOC Week with a special assembly recognising this year's theme, "50 Years of Deadly." This milestone celebrates five decades of NAIDOC Week as a national movement, honouring the Elders, activists, artists and communities who have championed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, truth-telling and reconciliation.
We were honoured to welcome Melinda Kennedy from the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative, who shared her knowledge of First Nations customs and explained the cultural significance of the Smoking Ceremony. We also extend our sincere thanks to the Melinda Kennedy for leading the Smoking Ceremony, providing our school community with a meaningful opportunity to learn about and participate in this important cultural tradition.
A special congratulations to Alora Abrahams, whose courageous, confident and heartfelt speech was a highlight of the assembly. Alora represented our school with pride and inspired everyone in attendance.
At recess, students also enjoyed a range of NAIDOC Week activities in the Piazza, providing a wonderful opportunity for the school community to come together, learn more about First Nations culture, and celebrate this important occasion.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making our NAIDOC Week celebrations such a meaningful and memorable experience.
Congratulations to Madison Vasovski, who has been selected as the winner of a free rides wristband for the 2026 Multicultural Festival after creating an amazing poster design.
Thank you to all students who participated and shared their creativity and ideas. We were thrilled with the wonderful designs submitted and appreciate everyone who helped make the competition a success.
We look forward to celebrating together at the Multicultural Festival!"
Battle of the Bands - Friday June 19
Term 2 was a busy and exciting time for the music department at NGSC with an excursion to the VCAA Top Class concert at Geelong Arts Centre, the 2-day APRA Songmakers recording workshop and our sold-out music concert ‘Lights, Camera, Music!’ To cap it all off students from across the College competed in a Battle of the Bands competition for all students from Years 7-11 at the end of week 9. Six bands performed for the incredibly enthusiastic audience of peers. With House points up for grabs, performers gave it their all and worked the crowd at every opportunity. MCs Ezra Washington and Louis Smith kept the audience revved up and cheering on the bands. The judging panel consisted of Ms King, Mr Quinn and alumnus Kai Purton.
The prize for first place was a slot at the Queenscliff Battle of the Bands on August 9, and the winner of that event will be awarded a slot at the Queenscliff Music Festival in November.
Thank you to all performers for putting on an incredible afternoon of entertainment for the school. Thank you also to the MCs, judges and music staff for all their efforts on the day and in the lead up to the event. We are especially grateful to Kai for taking the time to return to NGSC to support our students.
Good luck to Vivica’s Way on the next step in their journey. We'll be cheering you on in Queenscliff!
We've got your next movie marathon sorted! JFF Theater currently features a range of films highlighting traditional Japanese culture, and they're all available to watch online for free! From the hilarious celebration of onsen culture YUDO to the coming-of-age comedy Sumo Do, Sumo Don't, there's plenty of entertainment to tide you through this winter.
If you haven't already, simply register with JFF Theater to start watching the films for free.
Streaming started for this season on 7 May (Thur) at 12pm AEST. This season’s line-up runs until August. To access the movies, simply create a free JFF Theater account at the link below!
Hello Everyone,
North Geelong Secondary College is Sister School to the junior high schools of Geelong's Sister City, Izumiotsu, in Osaka, Japan.
This year we are welcoming our Junior High School Exchange group (Years 7-9), from August 10th to 16th. This is also known as T3 Week 5, Monday 4pm through Sunday 12pm.
There will be 8 girls and 2 boys travelling to Geelong to learn about our lives in Australia, and to extend their English skills.
We are seeking host families for these students from within our school community.
Marvellous families of NGSC, would you consider opening your homes to our sister school students?
Please email linda.castle@education.vic.gov.au if you would consider hosting or would like more information.
Alumni News
Science for Life
Battle of the Bands
Last term, our Year 11 Biology students were inspired by a visit from NGSC alum Nicole Anastos (Class of 1994). Nicole shared her journey since graduating from North Geelong, which has included completing a Bachelor of Science (Honours – Chemistry), working at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, and later undertaking a PhD in Forensic Analytical Chemistry. Although Nicole did not study Biology while at NGSC, her broader science studies enabled her to develop a strong understanding of analytical methods and experimental design. These skills were further strengthened through her doctoral research, which fostered independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving within complex scientific contexts. Completing her doctorate also enhanced her abilities in scientific reporting and presenting to diverse audiences, as well as providing the opportunity to work overseas for a year. Nicole’s training has provided a strong foundation for leadership roles in clinical research and applied science across both large international organisations and smaller Australian settings, which is where she finds herself today. Her career has progressed through several stages, beginning with a forensic focus involving determining causes of death when these were not medically evident. She then moved into applied research and early drug development through transdermal studies using donated skin samples, before transitioning into project management roles overseeing all aspects of clinical trials. She now works within a boutique Australian company that provides end-to-end clinical development, regulatory support, and trial management services for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device organisations. Nicole’s message about applying yourself diligently during the final years of secondary school resonated strongly with students, particularly as they had just completed exams and were beginning to consider their Year 12 pathways. When reflecting on what advice she would give to her Year 12 self, Nicole shared: "This is just the prologue - the world waiting for you after graduation is vast, diverse, and filled with people who will appreciate your talents. All this hard work is simply building the launchpad." We greatly appreciate the time and effort Nicole dedicated to her presentation and thank her for her valuable contribution to the NGSC Alumni Program.
Last term, the school was treated to some excellent performances from our talented students in the annual Battle of the Bands competition. Six bands took to the stage, with members ranging from Year 7 students right through to those in their final years, all vying for the ultimate prize: entry to the Queenscliff Music Festival.
Joining Mr Quinn and Dr King on the judging panel this year was alum Kai Purton (2022), who assessed each band on musicianship, showmanship and originality. There was also a Best Stage Presence award, recognising the individual performer who stood out most during the afternoon.
Since graduating in 2022, Kai has gone on to work in music production for a range of artists, including fellow North Geelong alum Baraka the Kid. Kai thoroughly enjoyed returning to NGSC as seen by his interview below!
We thank Kai for so generously giving back to the school community.
Interested in getting involved in the alumni program? Contact alumni@ngsc.com.au or sign up via this link.
Career News
What are employers looking for in an apprentice or trainee?
There are the baseline traits that all employees look for:
So how do you capture the attention of an employer?
Why are you unique? What can you offer that no one else can? We all have Unique Selling Points or USPs (in digital marketing terms). Name your top three strengths then ask a parent, friend or former employer to do the same. For example, you may be efficient, outgoing and driven. Think of examples in your personal life where you have illustrated these strengths and spell them out using examples.
YOU MUST have a Resume. Employers offering apprenticeships and traineeships accept that you may have very little paid work experience, but you do have skills. Perhaps you are the captain of your sporting club, or you are coach of a team, completed a pre-apprenticeship, studied tech or hospitality at school, worked at your dad’s company in the holidays or learned how to construct things. Include achievements such as awards or projects you managed at school. It could simply be that you worked part-time for a year to go on a school trip, which shows you have determination.
Be creative with your skill set.
Present well. Dress well and look clean and tidy even if you are in your school uniform. Presentation also includes ensuring there are no spelling or grammar mistakes in your resume. This is especially important to show you have a keen eye for attention to detail.
Be enthusiastic. Enthusiasm is so important in apprentices!
Someone who is enthusiastic, energetic and passionate creating products will get employed. Remember, while you may not have a lengthy resume, you might be surprised by how much you can truly offer.
Employers also value a young person’s initiative to pick up the phone (yes actually talking) and have a conversation with prospective employers.
Stay off your mobile during business hours!
Might be obvious, but Snapchat, Instagram, Tik Tok.... CAN ALL WAIT!
The one thing the Head Start Coordinators hear from frustrated employers; “They are always on their phone.”
Check it at appropriate times during breaks, but other times show some initiative during slow periods and clean, restack, clean a work vehicle – this is the thing that will impress.
What makes doing an apprenticeship so worthwhile?
Learning in a practical setting is invaluable. Not only do you get to develop skills in a practical environment, but you’re surrounded by experienced professionals that you can learn and draw inspiration from. An apprenticeship goes beyond the theory and provides you with skills and experience that will set you up for a career that you may have never been able to access otherwise.
Finding yourself the right apprenticeship isn’t always as difficult as you may think. Talk to your Careers Teacher about how Head Start can help you present well to employers.
If you’re a student looking for a pathway into employment, a parent looking for a secure future for your child, or an employer looking for your next apprentice, contact the Careers and Pathways Team about the Head Start Program!
Student Wellbeing
Our Wellbeing Team continues to welcome our school dog, Dobby, into the school several days each week. Recently, Sooty has also joined our school pet team, further enhancing the positive impact these special companions have on our school community.
The presence of our school pets brings joy, comfort, and many smiles to both students and staff. They provide valuable support in promoting student wellbeing, helping students to regulate their emotions, reduce anxiety, and feel more connected and settled throughout the school day.
Our school pets enjoy spending time with students and staff, participating in wellbeing activities, and mingling within the school community. Their calm and friendly nature creates opportunities for positive interactions and supports a welcoming and inclusive school environment.
We are grateful for the many benefits our school pets bring and look forward to continuing this valuable wellbeing initiative.
Community News
Rotary Book Fair
Free Eye Test
VSL School of Language
North Geelong Centre
Located at North Geelong Secondary College
Just a quick update on the situation with VSL / LOTE learning. Many of our students attend school on a Saturday morning to learn a language. The VSL is running all classes through on-line learning, as are day-schools; the lessons are running at the usual time on a Saturday. The VSL teachers contacted each class member prior to the commencement of this term in regard to the electronic platform being used and instructions to access those. If any of our students or their parents/guardians have questions about this, please contact the class teacher first (if possible) and then make all enquiries through the VSL head-office.
The Victorian School of Languages is a specialist Government school offering complementary language instruction outside of regular school hours. It enrols students in Years 1 to 12, who are unable to study their language of choice in their mainstream school. Students from all educational sectors (Government, Independent and Catholic) are eligible to enrol.
The Victorian School of Languages offers quality courses aligned with Government curriculum standards, based on communication skills, that include speaking, reading, writing and listening. Its VCE Program is fully accredited and can advantage students in the calculation of their university entrance score.
The school`s Language Program is delivered through online teaching in over 40 Language Centres situated in government Secondary Schools across the state, and through Distance Education mode.
In North Geelong, classes are held on Saturday mornings between 9:00 am and 12:15 pm online.
Languages offered:
Croatian, Karen, Vietnamese, Dari, Persian, Polish, Macedonian, Bosnian, Turkish and Russian
*New languages may be offered subject to demand*
For enquiries Telephone: 5277 9833
Further details and enrolment are available online at our website: www.vsl.vic.edu.au
Discover the World of Languages!
