Parent Bulletin 6
16 May 2025
Principal's Report
We’re thrilled to share that Strathmore Secondary College will be taking another important step toward sustainability during the upcoming school holidays. Solar panels will be installed on both the F and M blocks, helping to reduce our environmental footprint and contribute to a greener future. This initiative aligns with our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
This Friday marks Education Support (ES) Staff Appreciation Day, and we would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt thanks to our incredible ES team. Their dedication, care, and behind-the-scenes work ensure our school runs smoothly every day. Whether supporting students, staff, or the broader operations of the College, their efforts are truly the backbone of our school community.
A big congratulations to all our Year 10 students for completing their week of work experience. It’s been inspiring to hear about the variety of placements and the valuable learning and growth students experienced. Thank you to families and employers who helped support this important opportunity.
Lastly, a reminder to families of the upcoming student-free days on:
• Wednesday 28th May• Tuesday 17th June.
These days are important for staff professional development and curriculum planning.
Thank you for your continued support.
This Friday marks Education Support (ES) Staff Appreciation Day, and we would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt thanks to our incredible ES team. Their dedication, care, and behind-the-scenes work ensure our school runs smoothly every day. Whether supporting students, staff, or the broader operations of the College, their efforts are truly the backbone of our school community.
A big congratulations to all our Year 10 students for completing their week of work experience. It’s been inspiring to hear about the variety of placements and the valuable learning and growth students experienced. Thank you to families and employers who helped support this important opportunity.
Lastly, a reminder to families of the upcoming student-free days on:
• Wednesday 28th May• Tuesday 17th June.
These days are important for staff professional development and curriculum planning.
Thank you for your continued support.
Art Making & Exhibiting
Year 11 & 12 Art Making & Exhibiting students embarked on an enriching excursion to the Museum of Australian Photography (MAPh). The visit provided students with firsthand experience in exhibition design and the preservation of photographic artworks.
During the excursion, students had the opportunity to explore the current exhibitions at MAPh including TOP SHOTS 2025 and THE BASEMENT, gaining insights into the thoughtful arrangement and presentation of artworks. They observed how curatorial decisions influence the viewer's experience and understanding of the artworks.
A highlight of the visit was a guided tour focusing on the conservation and preservation of photographic works. Students learned about the importance of maintaining the integrity of artworks for future generations, including techniques and materials used in the conservation process.
This excursion not only deepened students' appreciation for the art of photography but also provided valuable knowledge applicable to their studies.
During the excursion, students had the opportunity to explore the current exhibitions at MAPh including TOP SHOTS 2025 and THE BASEMENT, gaining insights into the thoughtful arrangement and presentation of artworks. They observed how curatorial decisions influence the viewer's experience and understanding of the artworks.
A highlight of the visit was a guided tour focusing on the conservation and preservation of photographic works. Students learned about the importance of maintaining the integrity of artworks for future generations, including techniques and materials used in the conservation process.
This excursion not only deepened students' appreciation for the art of photography but also provided valuable knowledge applicable to their studies.
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2026 Italy Study Tour - Parent Information Evening
An Information Evening will be held on Tuesday, 20th May 2025 from 6:30pm in the College Theatrette. If you are interested in your son/daughter participating in the Tour, please email the college (strathmore.sc@education.vic.gov.au) to advise you will be attending the meeting.
The tour is open to students studying Italian in Years 9 to 12 in 2026.
Please check Compass Newsfeed for full details.
The tour is open to students studying Italian in Years 9 to 12 in 2026.
Please check Compass Newsfeed for full details.
Year 9 Food Technology
Year 9 Food Technology students have been exploring the world of yeast-based doughs in their latest kitchen sessions! Over the past few weeks, students have been learning the science behind yeast, experimenting with different dough recipes, and developing their skills in making bread and cinnamon scrolls.
This hands-on experience has allowed students to understand the importance of yeast fermentation, kneading, and proving techniques, which are essential for creating soft, airy, and flavorful doughs. It’s been wonderful to see them grow in confidence as they create their own tasty, freshly baked products.
Ask your child about their favourite dough creations – they may even be eager to bake something at home with you!
This hands-on experience has allowed students to understand the importance of yeast fermentation, kneading, and proving techniques, which are essential for creating soft, airy, and flavorful doughs. It’s been wonderful to see them grow in confidence as they create their own tasty, freshly baked products.
Ask your child about their favourite dough creations – they may even be eager to bake something at home with you!
Product Design and Visual Communications
Year 12 Product Design and Visual Communications Excursion to Top Designs 2025
Recently, our Year 12 Product Design and Technologies and Visual Communication Design students had the exciting opportunity to attend the Top Designs 2025 exhibition. This year, Top Designs showcases 77 outstanding works created by students from various fields, including VCE Media, Product Design and Technologies, Systems Engineering, Theatre Studies, and Visual Communication Design, as well as VCE VET Creative and Digital Media, Furnishing, Engineering Studies, and Music (Sound Production).
The exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the creativity, research, and innovation of young designers tackling real-world challenges. Our students were particularly inspired by the diverse range of works on display, which explore important topics such as sustainability, automation, community, craftsmanship, and the impact of design on our changing world.
From intricate product prototypes to thought-provoking visual presentations, Top Designs 2025 highlighted the dedication and problem-solving skills required to create innovative design solutions. It was an invaluable experience for our students, offering them insights into the latest trends and inspiring them to continue pushing the boundaries of their own work as they prepare for their final assessments.
We look forward to seeing how the inspiration from this excursion influences their own projects in the months ahead.
Recently, our Year 12 Product Design and Technologies and Visual Communication Design students had the exciting opportunity to attend the Top Designs 2025 exhibition. This year, Top Designs showcases 77 outstanding works created by students from various fields, including VCE Media, Product Design and Technologies, Systems Engineering, Theatre Studies, and Visual Communication Design, as well as VCE VET Creative and Digital Media, Furnishing, Engineering Studies, and Music (Sound Production).
The exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the creativity, research, and innovation of young designers tackling real-world challenges. Our students were particularly inspired by the diverse range of works on display, which explore important topics such as sustainability, automation, community, craftsmanship, and the impact of design on our changing world.
From intricate product prototypes to thought-provoking visual presentations, Top Designs 2025 highlighted the dedication and problem-solving skills required to create innovative design solutions. It was an invaluable experience for our students, offering them insights into the latest trends and inspiring them to continue pushing the boundaries of their own work as they prepare for their final assessments.
We look forward to seeing how the inspiration from this excursion influences their own projects in the months ahead.
Year 12 Food Studies
Year 12 students have been studying the emotional and social role of food and examining how food brings people together and helps to foster a sense of connectedness.
This week, students prepared Monkey Bread - a delicious, slightly spicy, layered bread that is visually very interesting. The layering makes the loaf easy to eat, because each section breaks off without needing to be cut - perfect for sharing with friends and family!
This week, students prepared Monkey Bread - a delicious, slightly spicy, layered bread that is visually very interesting. The layering makes the loaf easy to eat, because each section breaks off without needing to be cut - perfect for sharing with friends and family!
National Youth Science Forum
This is a program for 2026 Year 12s that offers students an immersive live-in opportunity to explore future STEM pathways, visit universities, TAFE and industry, and meet hundreds of STEM-interested people their age. As part of this program you will: participate in tours of science and technology facilities, learn about cutting-edge research, engage with industry partners and research providers, learn about university, training and STEM career pathways, mix with like-minded students their age from all over Australia, participate in social and team building activities, and network with former NYSF participants.
In January 2026, the NYSF Year 12 Program will run two summer sessions at:
The Australian National University, Canberra (6 –14 January 2026)The University of Queensland, Brisbane (13 – 21 January 2026)
Applications are now open and close on the 20th of June 2025 (we recommend students start their online application as soon as possible). Please note that this is not being organised by SSC, and that you apply for this directly.
If you’re planning to apply please see Jordan Kersten or Hannah Twigg (G Block 1st floor office). We can support you in preparing your application if needed. There are some external scholarship opportunities to cover some costs of attending the forum - we can give you guidance on applying for these as well.
For more details see the NYSF site: https://www.nysf.edu.au/programs/year-12-program/
In January 2026, the NYSF Year 12 Program will run two summer sessions at:
The Australian National University, Canberra (6 –14 January 2026)The University of Queensland, Brisbane (13 – 21 January 2026)
Applications are now open and close on the 20th of June 2025 (we recommend students start their online application as soon as possible). Please note that this is not being organised by SSC, and that you apply for this directly.
If you’re planning to apply please see Jordan Kersten or Hannah Twigg (G Block 1st floor office). We can support you in preparing your application if needed. There are some external scholarship opportunities to cover some costs of attending the forum - we can give you guidance on applying for these as well.
For more details see the NYSF site: https://www.nysf.edu.au/programs/year-12-program/
Chill With Clay
It’s fantastic to see Year 12 students taking time each week to engage in the "Chill with Clay" Friday wellbeing sessions! With its focus on both the pottery wheel and hand-building techniques, this class provides a truly wholesome and creative outlet. It offers students a peaceful escape from their busy academic lives, allowing them to express themselves artistically while also fostering mindfulness and relaxation.
The hands-on, slow-paced nature of working with clay encourages students to be present, reducing stress and nurturing their mental wellbeing. Not only is this a productive and fulfilling activity, but it also fosters creativity and growth—skills that can be transferred beyond our ceramic studio. The fact that these students are carving out time for this fruitful and meditative practice is a beautiful reminder that creativity and self-care are essential for a balanced life, especially during such a pivotal year!
Keep it up, Year 12—you're nurturing your creativity and wellbeing in such a positive wayMrs Odak
The hands-on, slow-paced nature of working with clay encourages students to be present, reducing stress and nurturing their mental wellbeing. Not only is this a productive and fulfilling activity, but it also fosters creativity and growth—skills that can be transferred beyond our ceramic studio. The fact that these students are carving out time for this fruitful and meditative practice is a beautiful reminder that creativity and self-care are essential for a balanced life, especially during such a pivotal year!
Keep it up, Year 12—you're nurturing your creativity and wellbeing in such a positive wayMrs Odak
We love making clayit always makes our FridaysWe sculpt awayit’s our favourite part of the school dayWith our sleeves rolled up,and our hand in claywe mold and shapeour stress away!We talk, we laugh, we share,we play, there’s nothing betterthan a clay Friday!
Eloise and Emily
GAT - General Achievement Test
Tuesday 17th June 2025
All students enrolled in a VCE 3/4 unit must sit this test. The GAT involves 2 written tasks: Part A - Literacy and Numeracy, Part B - General Knowledge and Skills questions that must be completed. Students enrolled in VCE VM Units 3 and 4 will be required to complete Part A - Literacy and Numeracy.
The General Achievement Test (GAT) is a pen-and-paper test of general knowledge and skills taken by students in the course of completing their senior secondary studies.
The GAT plays an important role in the quality assurance of VCE assessments and also provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate they meet the Victorian Literacy and Numeracy Standards expected at a senior secondary level.
No special study is needed. Past study of subjects like English, Mathematics, Science and History prepares students for the GAT by building their general knowledge and skills in writing, numeracy and reasoning.
More information will be provided to students in the coming weeks.
Date for the diary: Tuesday 17 June 2025.
All students enrolled in a VCE 3/4 unit must sit this test. The GAT involves 2 written tasks: Part A - Literacy and Numeracy, Part B - General Knowledge and Skills questions that must be completed. Students enrolled in VCE VM Units 3 and 4 will be required to complete Part A - Literacy and Numeracy.
The General Achievement Test (GAT) is a pen-and-paper test of general knowledge and skills taken by students in the course of completing their senior secondary studies.
The GAT plays an important role in the quality assurance of VCE assessments and also provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate they meet the Victorian Literacy and Numeracy Standards expected at a senior secondary level.
No special study is needed. Past study of subjects like English, Mathematics, Science and History prepares students for the GAT by building their general knowledge and skills in writing, numeracy and reasoning.
More information will be provided to students in the coming weeks.
Date for the diary: Tuesday 17 June 2025.
Parent Information Evening - VCE VM Program 2026
Dear Parents and Guardians of Year 10 Students,
Strathmore Secondary College is pleased to announce an upcoming Parent Information Evening for families of students currently in Year 10. This session will provide important details about the Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major (VCE VM) program, which will be offered at the College in 2026.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday 29th May 2025
Time: 5pm
Location: VSSEC Theatre at Strathmore Secondary College
The VCE VM is a senior secondary certificate pathway designed for students who are interested in combining academic learning with hands-on, practical experiences. At this information evening, we will outline the structure of the program, subject options, opportunities for vocational training, and pathways beyond school.
Topics will include:
• What is the VCE VM?• How it differs from the traditional VCE• Available subject areas and vocational opportunities• Application and selection process• Support services and future pathways
We strongly encourage parents and guardians of all Year 10 students interested in pursuing the VCE VM to attend, particularly those whose children are considering a practical, applied learning pathway for their senior secondary years. The evening should be of particular interest to parents of students who are currently participating in the VET program at NCAT on Wednesday afternoons.
We look forward to seeing you there and sharing this exciting opportunity for our students’ futures.
Strathmore Secondary College is pleased to announce an upcoming Parent Information Evening for families of students currently in Year 10. This session will provide important details about the Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major (VCE VM) program, which will be offered at the College in 2026.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday 29th May 2025
Time: 5pm
Location: VSSEC Theatre at Strathmore Secondary College
The VCE VM is a senior secondary certificate pathway designed for students who are interested in combining academic learning with hands-on, practical experiences. At this information evening, we will outline the structure of the program, subject options, opportunities for vocational training, and pathways beyond school.
Topics will include:
• What is the VCE VM?• How it differs from the traditional VCE• Available subject areas and vocational opportunities• Application and selection process• Support services and future pathways
We strongly encourage parents and guardians of all Year 10 students interested in pursuing the VCE VM to attend, particularly those whose children are considering a practical, applied learning pathway for their senior secondary years. The evening should be of particular interest to parents of students who are currently participating in the VET program at NCAT on Wednesday afternoons.
We look forward to seeing you there and sharing this exciting opportunity for our students’ futures.
Freaky Friday
This year we decided to join our schools 2025 production, Freaky Friday The Musical. The last 3 months have been an incredible experience for the both of us. We’ve made new friends, gained new experiences and became better performers. The incredible team of teachers have put in so much work, time and effort into putting together an incredible production.
This year our production will take place in the Clocktower Centre which is an incredible venue and it’s exciting to perform there due to the fact that we have performed at school for the past few years due to Covid precautions.
At rehearsals we are always excited to learn and grow with the support of incredible cast and crew who have all come together to make this production happen. We are super excited to perform this incredible, fun and engaging musical and we look forward to seeing you there.
By Phoebe Dodds and Evie Montgomery
This year our production will take place in the Clocktower Centre which is an incredible venue and it’s exciting to perform there due to the fact that we have performed at school for the past few years due to Covid precautions.
At rehearsals we are always excited to learn and grow with the support of incredible cast and crew who have all come together to make this production happen. We are super excited to perform this incredible, fun and engaging musical and we look forward to seeing you there.
By Phoebe Dodds and Evie Montgomery
IDAHOBIT 2025
International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) 2025
Next week we will be acknowledging IDAHOBIT with a range of optional activities across the week!
IDAHOBIT is about being brave and standing up against discrimination. This day creates awareness to bring about positive social change that celebrates what makes each of us unique and incredible. IDAHOBIT benefits everyone through creating a respectful environment at school where everyone feels accepted and safe to be who they are.
Students will enjoy:
• Cosy vibes in the Theatrette with snacks and videos from Minus18 • Disney Edition Karaoke• A screening of Wicked in Film Appreciation Club
Thank you to all of the different staff and students who are making this possible!
IDAHOBIT is about being brave and standing up against discrimination. This day creates awareness to bring about positive social change that celebrates what makes each of us unique and incredible. IDAHOBIT benefits everyone through creating a respectful environment at school where everyone feels accepted and safe to be who they are.
Students will enjoy:
• Cosy vibes in the Theatrette with snacks and videos from Minus18 • Disney Edition Karaoke• A screening of Wicked in Film Appreciation Club
Thank you to all of the different staff and students who are making this possible!
Year 7 STEAM
Earlier this term, our Year 7 STEAM class had the exciting opportunity to visit La Trobe’s AgriBio centre to learn about modern technologies that can be used to automate farming.
They built their own soil moisture sensors from scratch - from building the computer to calibrating their soil probes. They were excited to set foot into a research facility, and see what is happening at the cutting edge of agricultural technologies. Hopefully this has inspired lots of ideas for their current project!
They built their own soil moisture sensors from scratch - from building the computer to calibrating their soil probes. They were excited to set foot into a research facility, and see what is happening at the cutting edge of agricultural technologies. Hopefully this has inspired lots of ideas for their current project!
Community Clean-up Day
Moonee Valley City Council is excited to launch a new environmental group for young people aged 12–25, and we’re kicking things off with a community litter clean-up day!
We’d love for you to share this opportunity with students via Compass, homeroom bulletins, and around campus. Please see the attached posters for more details.
Grassroots ProgramAre you a young person connected to Moonee Valley who cares about the environment and wants to take local action on climate change? The Grassroots Program is for you!Get involved in fun, hands-on activities, workshops, and monthly excursions that will connect you to nature. You’ll learn practical skills in sustainability, advocacy, and environmental care.
Learn more and sign up here: https://bit.ly/grassrootsgroup
Litter Clean-Up DayJoin us for our first event at Canning Reserve, Avondale Heights, on Saturday 31 May, 10am–12pm. We’ll be picking up litter to help keep the park clean and doing some mulching to support the local landscape. It’s a great way to meet new people, learn gardening skills, and make a real impact in your community.
Learn more and sign up here: https://bit.ly/helppickuplitter
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions and thanks for helping us spread the word!
We’d love for you to share this opportunity with students via Compass, homeroom bulletins, and around campus. Please see the attached posters for more details.
Grassroots ProgramAre you a young person connected to Moonee Valley who cares about the environment and wants to take local action on climate change? The Grassroots Program is for you!Get involved in fun, hands-on activities, workshops, and monthly excursions that will connect you to nature. You’ll learn practical skills in sustainability, advocacy, and environmental care.
Learn more and sign up here: https://bit.ly/grassrootsgroup
Litter Clean-Up DayJoin us for our first event at Canning Reserve, Avondale Heights, on Saturday 31 May, 10am–12pm. We’ll be picking up litter to help keep the park clean and doing some mulching to support the local landscape. It’s a great way to meet new people, learn gardening skills, and make a real impact in your community.
Learn more and sign up here: https://bit.ly/helppickuplitter
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions and thanks for helping us spread the word!
