Parent Bulletin 5
9 May 2025
Principal's Report
Mother's Day Wishes
This Sunday marks Mother's Day, and we would like to extend our warmest wishes to all mothers, grandmothers, and maternal figures in our school community. Your unwavering support, guidance, and love make an immeasurable difference in the lives of our students. We hope you enjoy a well-deserved day of recognition and appreciation from your families.
Year 10 Work Experience Program
Next week, our Year 10 students will be participating in their work experience program. This is a valuable opportunity for students to gain insight into potential career pathways, develop workplace skills, and build confidence in professional environments. We strongly encourage all Year 10 students to approach this experience with enthusiasm, curiosity, and professionalism. This is your chance to:
This Sunday marks Mother's Day, and we would like to extend our warmest wishes to all mothers, grandmothers, and maternal figures in our school community. Your unwavering support, guidance, and love make an immeasurable difference in the lives of our students. We hope you enjoy a well-deserved day of recognition and appreciation from your families.
Year 10 Work Experience Program
Next week, our Year 10 students will be participating in their work experience program. This is a valuable opportunity for students to gain insight into potential career pathways, develop workplace skills, and build confidence in professional environments. We strongly encourage all Year 10 students to approach this experience with enthusiasm, curiosity, and professionalism. This is your chance to:
- Explore industries of interest
- Build connections with professionals in your chosen field
- Develop practical workplace skills
- Gain clarity about future education and career choices
Parents, please ensure your child is prepared with appropriate attire and transportation arrangements for their placement. If you have any questions about the program, please contact our Careers Coordinator.
Student-Free Day Reminder
Please note that Wednesday, 28th May will be a student-free day. This time has been allocated for whole-school professional learning, allowing our staff to collaborate and enhance their teaching practices to better support your children's education. Students are not required to attend school on this day. We appreciate your support in making alternative arrangements for your child. There is also a student free day for junior students on Tuesday 17th June to allow the senior students to complete their General Achievement Test (GAT). Winter Uniform Reminder
As the weather becomes cooler, we remind all families about our winter uniform expectations. Hoodies are not part of our uniform. There are Strathmore SC ‘puffer jackets’ and vests available from the uniform supplier, as well as woollen jumpers. Please ensure your child has all necessary winter uniform items. If you require any assistance with uniform matters, please contact your child’s coordinator.
Thank you for your continued support of our school community.
Vanessa Pratt & Michael PakakisActing Principals
Student-Free Day Reminder
Please note that Wednesday, 28th May will be a student-free day. This time has been allocated for whole-school professional learning, allowing our staff to collaborate and enhance their teaching practices to better support your children's education. Students are not required to attend school on this day. We appreciate your support in making alternative arrangements for your child. There is also a student free day for junior students on Tuesday 17th June to allow the senior students to complete their General Achievement Test (GAT). Winter Uniform Reminder
As the weather becomes cooler, we remind all families about our winter uniform expectations. Hoodies are not part of our uniform. There are Strathmore SC ‘puffer jackets’ and vests available from the uniform supplier, as well as woollen jumpers. Please ensure your child has all necessary winter uniform items. If you require any assistance with uniform matters, please contact your child’s coordinator.
Thank you for your continued support of our school community.
Vanessa Pratt & Michael PakakisActing Principals
Artistic Swimming Australia
During the school holidays, Abby Salmon 11D, competed at the Artistic Swimming Australia National Championships in Melbourne, earning an outstanding five silver medals across multiple events: Junior Solo, Junior Duet, Senior Mixed Duet, Junior Team Technical, and Junior Team Free.
Following the championships, she was selected to attend the National Squad Camp, training alongside members of the Senior, Junior, and Youth Australian squads.
Congratulations Abby!
Following the championships, she was selected to attend the National Squad Camp, training alongside members of the Senior, Junior, and Youth Australian squads.
Congratulations Abby!
Generations In Jazz
Students from the College Big Bands and Small Combos headed off to Mt Gambier in South Australia, to once again participate in this year’s Generations In Jazz Festival.
Our students represented the college in four different divisions, and their skills were commended across the board. Alara McLeod in Year 8 from the D13 Big Band was selected as part of the Super Band for her division, recognising her as one of the strongest performers in the entire division, an outstanding achievement.
A massive thanks to the teachers who worked tirelessly with the students in getting them prepared for the performances as well as those who accompanied the students on the weekend.
Congratulations to everyone.
Our students represented the college in four different divisions, and their skills were commended across the board. Alara McLeod in Year 8 from the D13 Big Band was selected as part of the Super Band for her division, recognising her as one of the strongest performers in the entire division, an outstanding achievement.
A massive thanks to the teachers who worked tirelessly with the students in getting them prepared for the performances as well as those who accompanied the students on the weekend.
Congratulations to everyone.
Healesville Excursion: A Memorable Experience
On the 27th of March, our class including 10 students and 2 teachers set off on an engaging excursion to Healesville. The purpose of the trip was to learn more about Australian wildlife, but it turned out to be much more than just an educational experience, it was a day filled with wonder, excitement, and unforgettable moments.
The day started early as we gathered in the common room. We were all very excited. By 10:00 am, we finally arrived at Healesville Sanctuary. The first thing we did was take a group photo in front of a giant eagle statue, marking the beginning of our thrilling trip. After a quick snack, we started exploring different animal zones, where we saw wombats and Tasmanian devils up close. But what truly amazed me was the platypuses playfully swimming in the water. Although the area was quite dark, so I couldn’t see the platypuses clearly, it was still unbelievable to observe these rare creatures from such a close distance.The highlight of the morning, however, was the "Spirit of the Sky" show. When we watched several species of birds soar and swoop above us, we couldn’t help but be in awe of their beauty and power. Afterwards, we ate lunch at a nearby cafe and shared our favourite memories from the morning.
In the afternoon, we continued our journey through the wildlife sanctuary. Seeing koalas resting in the trees and kangaroos sleeping around was thrilling. One of the most fascinating moments was listening to Nicole, the bird keeper who explained how different animals adapt to their environments. Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, we noticed a rare red kangaroo nearby. It was an incredible sight and a perfect way to end our wildlife discovery.
Before leaving, we stopped by the souvenir shop, where I bought an echidna plush to remember the day. As we got on the bus at 2:20 PM, tired but happy, we couldn't stop recalling our favourite moments. Even though the entire day was amazing, we all agreed that the 'Spirit of the Sky' show was the most impressive. We returned to school at 4:00 PM. For me, this trip was not only fun and enjoyable, but it also taught us valuable lessons that we would carry with us.
Anh Tran
We went to see the dingoes which were my favourite animals in the zoo. Unfortunately, they were hiding when we went to their enclosure. But I have to say that I was fascinated because of the natural beauty of the environment with a lot of trees growing around. Then, we continued on until we reached the Tasmanian devil's enclosure. And we finally saw a Tasmanian Devil which was sleeping at that time. He was just a baby Tasmanian Devil, and he was so cute. After that, we went to the bird show which was organized by the employees of Healesville sanctuary. There, I gained a lot of interesting facts about the birds, especially the eagles and the parrots. They were so smart that they performed a brilliant show which made me feel incredible.
Hao Phan
The first animals we saw were emus which were as tall as me. To my surprise, when I rang the bell, the emu would come and smile at us. What enabled me to be more confident was that we had been learning about the diets and habitats of a variety of animals before we went to the Healesville Sanctuary.
Through this experience, I learned about different types of animals, especially those unique to Australia. Unfortunately, I didn’t see dingoes and some extinct animals. Climate change and pollution are a danger to these animals’ survival.
Jinxin Ye
The day started early as we gathered in the common room. We were all very excited. By 10:00 am, we finally arrived at Healesville Sanctuary. The first thing we did was take a group photo in front of a giant eagle statue, marking the beginning of our thrilling trip. After a quick snack, we started exploring different animal zones, where we saw wombats and Tasmanian devils up close. But what truly amazed me was the platypuses playfully swimming in the water. Although the area was quite dark, so I couldn’t see the platypuses clearly, it was still unbelievable to observe these rare creatures from such a close distance.The highlight of the morning, however, was the "Spirit of the Sky" show. When we watched several species of birds soar and swoop above us, we couldn’t help but be in awe of their beauty and power. Afterwards, we ate lunch at a nearby cafe and shared our favourite memories from the morning.
In the afternoon, we continued our journey through the wildlife sanctuary. Seeing koalas resting in the trees and kangaroos sleeping around was thrilling. One of the most fascinating moments was listening to Nicole, the bird keeper who explained how different animals adapt to their environments. Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, we noticed a rare red kangaroo nearby. It was an incredible sight and a perfect way to end our wildlife discovery.
Before leaving, we stopped by the souvenir shop, where I bought an echidna plush to remember the day. As we got on the bus at 2:20 PM, tired but happy, we couldn't stop recalling our favourite moments. Even though the entire day was amazing, we all agreed that the 'Spirit of the Sky' show was the most impressive. We returned to school at 4:00 PM. For me, this trip was not only fun and enjoyable, but it also taught us valuable lessons that we would carry with us.
Anh Tran
We went to see the dingoes which were my favourite animals in the zoo. Unfortunately, they were hiding when we went to their enclosure. But I have to say that I was fascinated because of the natural beauty of the environment with a lot of trees growing around. Then, we continued on until we reached the Tasmanian devil's enclosure. And we finally saw a Tasmanian Devil which was sleeping at that time. He was just a baby Tasmanian Devil, and he was so cute. After that, we went to the bird show which was organized by the employees of Healesville sanctuary. There, I gained a lot of interesting facts about the birds, especially the eagles and the parrots. They were so smart that they performed a brilliant show which made me feel incredible.
Hao Phan
The first animals we saw were emus which were as tall as me. To my surprise, when I rang the bell, the emu would come and smile at us. What enabled me to be more confident was that we had been learning about the diets and habitats of a variety of animals before we went to the Healesville Sanctuary.
Through this experience, I learned about different types of animals, especially those unique to Australia. Unfortunately, I didn’t see dingoes and some extinct animals. Climate change and pollution are a danger to these animals’ survival.
Jinxin Ye
Year 12 Formal
The Year 12 Formal is an opportunity for the Class of 2025 to celebrate the completion of their final year of secondary school together.
The Senior School team strongly encourages year 12 students to attend. The event will be held on Thursday 12th June at the San Remo Ballroom, 365 Nicholson Street, Carlton North, and will run from 7.00pm to 11.00pm. The cost to attend is $115.00 per student.
Ticket price includes:
Ticket price includes:
- Pre-dinner drinks & canapés with mocktails on arrival
- Entrée, main course and dessert
- Soft drinks and orange juice
- Professional roaming photographer with all photos available for FREE download after the event
- Photobooth on the night, with all photos available for FREE download after the event
- DJ music
BOOKINGS ARE NOW OPEN!
Payment & Consent is required on Compass before Sunday 1st June, 2025
The School Savings Bonus (SSB) can be used as FULL or PART payment for this event. If you wish to use the SSB to pay for the Formal, please contact the Finance Office BEFORE completing Consent & Payment on Compass. Please note the DET does not permit the use of CSEF to pay for the Formal.
Students can select a table with their friends on TryBooking: https://www.trybooking.com/CXYZD
The School Savings Bonus (SSB) can be used as FULL or PART payment for this event. If you wish to use the SSB to pay for the Formal, please contact the Finance Office BEFORE completing Consent & Payment on Compass. Please note the DET does not permit the use of CSEF to pay for the Formal.
Students can select a table with their friends on TryBooking: https://www.trybooking.com/CXYZD
State Swimming Championships
On Thursday the 1st of May, we had four students represent SSC at the State Swimming Championships at MSAC.
Cassandra Biscocho competed in the 50m Butterfly and swum a person best time. We also had Cassandra along with Matilka Keyte, Abbey Tanfara and Mirabelle Givogue compete in the 16yr Female 4x50m Freestyle relay and all girls swum incredibly well and came 7th overall in the state.
Thank you to all the swimmers that were involved in both the early morning trainings and competitions throughout term 1and a big congratulations to all four students who competed in the swimming championships – we couldn’t be prouder! Thank you also to Hamish Keenan and Amelia Maciel who were our swim captains this year, they were a big part of our success.
We look forward to getting back into the pool early next year.
Cassandra Biscocho competed in the 50m Butterfly and swum a person best time. We also had Cassandra along with Matilka Keyte, Abbey Tanfara and Mirabelle Givogue compete in the 16yr Female 4x50m Freestyle relay and all girls swum incredibly well and came 7th overall in the state.
Thank you to all the swimmers that were involved in both the early morning trainings and competitions throughout term 1and a big congratulations to all four students who competed in the swimming championships – we couldn’t be prouder! Thank you also to Hamish Keenan and Amelia Maciel who were our swim captains this year, they were a big part of our success.
We look forward to getting back into the pool early next year.
String Soiree
The room was full of the sounds of students bowing and plucking their way to musical success as they performed at the String Soiree on Tuesday the 6th of May.
The Soiree is a chance for students to present solo and small ensemble works to an audience, and share the hard work that they have been undertaking with family and friends.
Congratulations to all performers, and many thanks to their teachers for preparing the students so well.
The Soiree is a chance for students to present solo and small ensemble works to an audience, and share the hard work that they have been undertaking with family and friends.
Congratulations to all performers, and many thanks to their teachers for preparing the students so well.
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Year 9 Street Art Excursion: A Creative Journey
A group of Year 9 students recently attended an inspiring street art excursion at Blender Studios in West Melbourne. Under the guidance of artist Akemi, they created and sprayed their own stencils, learning firsthand the techniques behind this vibrant art form.
The students also toured the studios of some of Melbourne’s top street artists, gaining valuable insight into the creative process. The adventure continued with a guided tour of Hosier Lane, led by renowned artist Maha, where they discovered the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic laneway.
A highlight of the day was visiting The Outsiders exhibition, home to Australia’s largest private collection of street art. Students had the rare opportunity to experience the world of street art alongside artists in one of the best cities globally for this medium.
Throughout the excursion, they explored the history and legalities of street art, participating with enthusiasm and creativity. They should be proud of their efforts and the unique experience they gained.
The students also toured the studios of some of Melbourne’s top street artists, gaining valuable insight into the creative process. The adventure continued with a guided tour of Hosier Lane, led by renowned artist Maha, where they discovered the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic laneway.
A highlight of the day was visiting The Outsiders exhibition, home to Australia’s largest private collection of street art. Students had the rare opportunity to experience the world of street art alongside artists in one of the best cities globally for this medium.
Throughout the excursion, they explored the history and legalities of street art, participating with enthusiasm and creativity. They should be proud of their efforts and the unique experience they gained.
Cross Country and Athletics
Over the previous weekend Strathmore had a team of four students compete in the Victorian All Schools Road Relay championships. Our team consisting of Aiden Davis, William Lowe, Zac Mozjerin and Aidan Lowe were very competitive finsihing in 14th place out of 40 schools. The event was an ideal preparation for the upcoming school cross country events.
In other athletics news, congratulations to Aidan Lowe and Alexander Carroll who both recently returnined from representing Victoria at the Australian Athletics championships in Perth. Aidan performed strongly in the heats and made the final of the U15 800m, and Alexander Carroll competed in the final of the U16 High Jump.
In other athletics news, congratulations to Aidan Lowe and Alexander Carroll who both recently returnined from representing Victoria at the Australian Athletics championships in Perth. Aidan performed strongly in the heats and made the final of the U15 800m, and Alexander Carroll competed in the final of the U16 High Jump.
