Menu
Menu
As we reach the halfway point of Term 3, it is worth pausing to acknowledge what many of our Senior School students are carrying. Assessments, SACs, examinations, co-curricular commitments and the everyday challenges of adolescence can sometimes feel overwhelming. It is easy to believe that a result on a page somehow determines our worth or our future.
Our Christian faith reminds us of something different.
Christ never promised us a life free from hardship. In fact, throughout the Gospels we see that suffering, uncertainty and struggle are part of the human journey. Yet we are never asked to walk that journey alone. In every trial, Christ walks beside us, offering peace, strength and hope. It is often through life's greatest challenges that we discover resilience, compassion and a deeper understanding of who we are called to become.
Academic success is important, but it is never the measure of a person's value. A SAC result, an assessment or an examination is simply one step along a much greater journey. It does not define character or determine potential. Every student has unique gifts, talents and a purpose that extends far beyond a single mark or pathway.
As a school community grounded in Faith and Wisdom, we remain committed to walking alongside every young person. Whether a student is striving for an ATAR, pursuing a vocational pathway or simply navigating the challenges that come with growing up, they will always find people willing to listen, encourage and guide them.
As we continue through the remainder of the term, may we remember to show ourselves and one another kindness. Reach out if you need support. Offer encouragement to one another. Celebrate effort as much as achievement. Most importantly, remember that our identity is not found in our successes or setbacks, but in Christ’s love, who calls each of us to something far greater than the challenges we face.
Paula D-Tsiagalos
Year Level Leader (Years 10 and 11), Acting Senior School Pastoral Coordianator
Term 3 is always a busy and exciting time for our Senior Mathematics Department as our VCE students continue their Unit ¾ studies and prepare for their end-of-year examinations. Through their commitment, perseverance, and the continued support of their teachers, our students have demonstrated excellent progress and have excelled in their assessments throughout the year.
We are incredibly proud of the Year 12 students with their achievements and wish them every success as they approach the final stages of their VCE journey.
It has also been wonderful to witness the continued growth of Senior Mathematics at Oakleigh Grammar. The increasing number of students choosing Mathematics subjects at the VCE level has led to an expansion in the number of senior mathematics classes. This growth reflects not only our students’ enthusiasm for Mathematics but also the dedication, expertise, and collaborative efforts of our outstanding Senior Mathematics teaching team, who continually inspire students to achieve their personal best.
A valuable part of our students’ success is the support available beyond the classroom. We are fortunate to have a team of Oakleigh Grammar alumni who return to the College each week to tutor our Mathematics students. Having recently completed their own VCE studies, these past students provide invaluable academic support, practical study strategies, and encouragement to our current students. Their willingness to give back to the College community is greatly appreciated, and we thank them for the positive impact they continue to have on our learners.
Special Acknowledgment: Mr Steve Zafiropolous
The Senior Mathematics Department would also like to acknowledge and celebrate a remarkable milestone achieved by one of our long-standing colleagues, Mr Steve Zafiropoulos.
For the past 30 years, Mr Zafiropoulos has demonstrated exceptional commitment to teaching and has provided unwavering support to countless students at Oakleigh Grammar. His wealth of experience, passion for Mathematics, and genuine care for his students have enabled generations of learners to excel both academically and personally.
Congratulations, Mr Steve Zafiropoulos, on reaching this significant milestone. Your dedication, professionalism, and lasting contribution to the Oakleigh Grammar community have made an immeasurable impact, and we sincerely thank you for your outstanding service over the past three decades and look forward to many more years to come.
Leanne Giaimo
Academic Leader Senior Mathematics
The first four weeks of Term 3 have been busy and purposeful for our Year 12 students as they move closer to the conclusion of their secondary schooling. Our focus continues to be on ensuring students remain focused, connected and united, while making the most of every opportunity available to them.
This term has seen the extension of Year 12 privileges, providing students with greater independence when they do not have scheduled classes or commitments. These privileges are designed to build responsibility, organisation and time-management skills in preparation for life beyond school. Students are reminded that they must sign in an out using their student ID cards.
Our pastoral program has also been particularly active. Ms Zoe Markopoulos, Clinical Psychologist presented Staying Steady Under Pressure, equipping students with practical strategies for managing stress, maintaining wellbeing and studying effectively during the examination period. Students have also participated in a panel with Victorian Governmnet representatives, developing their understanding of civics and citizenship through discussion and questions; team-building workshops led by Mrs Scarlatta and Mrs Giaimo; and a Faith and Wisdom Hour Q&A. Students have also enjoyed the opportunity to share morning tea with the Principal in small groups, allowing for conversation and reflection on their Year 12 experience.
Attention is now increasingly turning towards pathways and examinations. Students need to ensure they are registered with VTAC and should see Mrs Mascaro, who is working closely with students throughout this process. Students are also strongly encouraged to take advantage of the afterschool tutoring service and practice examination opportunities being offered by VCE Coordinator Ms Hallam. Practice examinations are an important opportunity to identify areas for improvement, develop examination technique and build confidence.
We also congratulate Nathanel Anastasiou for receiving the Premeirs Award for Modern Greek and Lazarus Athanasopoulos, Benjamin Carmody and Peter Spanidis on their achievements in the recent e-sports competition.
As the term progresses, the message to our Year 12 students is clear: stay focused, stay united and make every opportunity count. The coming weeks will move quickly. Continue supporting one another, seek assistance when needed and maintain the high standards expected of Year 12 students. As students were reminded during Staying Steady Under Pressure, the goal is not perfection, but to remain steady, use the support around you and keep taking the next useful step.
Dean Damatopoulos
Acting Year Level Leader - Year 12
