It’s been a whirlwind of a term, filled with assessments, co-curricular events, exams, competitions, and all the moments in between that make up the rich fabric of school life. As we wrap up Term 2, I want to acknowledge the incredible efforts of our students, staff, and families in what has been a fast-paced but rewarding stretch of the school year.

Exams

Over the past week, our Middle School students in Years 7–9 undertook examinations in both Mathematics and Humanities. The conduct, effort, and focus of our boys throughout this process were exceptional. For our Year 7 students in particular, many of whom were sitting formal exams for the first time, this could have been a daunting experience. However, they approached the challenge with maturity, and they should be incredibly proud of how they managed this new academic milestone.

The Year 10 examinations also ran incredibly smoothly, with students completing assessments across a wide range of examinable subjects. Their preparation and commitment to the process were commendable. While exams are often seen as subject-specific events, the skills they develop, organisation, critical thinking, time management, and performance under pressure, are transferable across all areas of learning. These experiences also help students in non-examinable subjects by building confidence in articulating ideas, refining their ability to manage deadlines, and fostering independence.

A reminder that Year 11 and 12 examinations and workshops commence next week (Week 10). Students are only required to be on campus for their scheduled assessments or workshops but must be in full winter uniform regardless of the session type. All details are outlined in the attached document for your convenience.

Holiday Seminars and Drama Club

Looking ahead to the upcoming holiday break, we’re once again offering Year 12 Holiday Seminars and continuing rehearsals for Drama Club. These sessions provide an opportunity for students to consolidate their learning, complete unfinished work, or get ahead in their studies. We're deeply grateful to the dedicated staff members who have generously given up part of their holiday to help our boys pursue excellence.

A full schedule of these sessions is attached below:

The Road Ahead

Looking ahead to Term 3, there are several important events and milestones for students and families to be aware of:

• Semester 1 Academic Awards Assembly – Early next term, we will host our academic assembly to recognise and celebrate the hard work, dedication, and achievements of students in the Senior School.
• Subject Counselling for 2026 – Believe it or not, subject counselling for the 2026 school year will begin very soon. Planning is already underway to ensure students are guided through their options thoughtfully and thoroughly.
• NAPLAN Results – These will be released early next term. We’ll keep you informed about when and how you’ll be receiving your son’s results.
• Careers Expo – Students in Years 9–12 will have access to our Careers Expo early next term. Details have already been communicated directly to families and students by our Careers Counsellor and VET/SACE Coordinator – Ms Tia Milohis.

Now, if you're expecting the Director of Teaching and Learning to sign off with a firm directive to revise everything, memorise every syllabus dot point, and live by your study timetable over the holidays, this may surprise you.

As someone who teaches both Psychology and Health & Wellbeing, I can’t overstate the importance of recharging your academic battery. Downtime is not laziness, it’s necessary. Breaks improve memory, boost productivity, and enhance focus when it's time to get back to it. Whether it’s spending time with family, getting outdoors, watching a movie, or just having a sleep-in, rest is part of the learning cycle.

If you're looking for a reason to switch off guilt-free, here it is: research consistently shows that rest and recovery are essential for long-term performance and mental health. (Here’s a good read: The importance of Taking Breaks - https://thewellbeingthesis.org.uk/foundations-for-success/importance-of-taking-breaks-and-having-other-interests/ ).

So yes, revise, review, and get ready. But also, take a moment to just breathe.

Enjoy the break!

Mr David Salamone-Violi
Director of Teaching and Learning