Dear Parents 

As we conclude Week 4 of Term 4, our 2026 theme, Exceed the Expected, continues to guide our work and shape the aspirations we hold for every student at Oakleigh Grammar.  It is a theme that encourages us to look beyond simply meeting expectations and instead challenge ourselves to grow, contribute, persevere and achieve our personal best. 

To Exceed the Expected is not only about academic success.  It is equally about the character we demonstrate, the relationships we build, the respect we show others and the positive contribution we make to our community.  As we approach the final weeks of the school year, these principles remain as important as ever. 

Celebrating the Class of 2026 

Our recent Year 12 Graduation Assembly and Graduation Dinner provided wonderful opportunities to celebrate the achievements, friendships and personal journeys of our graduating students.  These occasions marked a significant milestone in their lives and offered a fitting opportunity to reflect on the many years of learning, growth and shared experiences that have shaped their time at Oakleigh Grammar. 

The Graduation Assembly enabled us to recognise the commitment and contributions of our students, while the Graduation Dinner brought together students, families and staff in a memorable celebration of the Class of 2026. 

I take great pride in seeing our students reach this important stage of their education.  Each graduating class contributes to the identity and traditions of our School, leaving a legacy through its achievements, relationships and involvement in our community. 

Our theme, Exceed the Expected, is particularly relevant to our graduating students.  It challenges them to consider not only what they have achieved, but also how they have grown, how they have supported others and how they will use their knowledge, values and experiences to make a difference in the world beyond school. 

I congratulate the Class of 2026 and extend my sincere thanks to their teachers, families and all those who have supported them throughout their journey.  As our graduates move into the next chapter of their lives, I encourage them to pursue their ambitions with courage, humility and determination, always striving to make a meaningful contribution. 

Our Year 12 students have now turned their attention to their external VCE examinations.  This is an important period requiring preparation, discipline, resilience and a sustained commitment to their goals. 

Exceeding the expected during examinations does not necessarily mean achieving a perfect result.  It means approaching each challenge with purpose, applying the knowledge and skills developed over many years, responding constructively to setbacks and taking pride in the effort invested. 

We acknowledge the dedication of our teachers, who have worked tirelessly to prepare and guide our students, and we wish every member of the Class of 2026 the very best as they complete their examinations.

I encourage all of our students irrespective of year level, to maintain consistent study routines, balance revision with adequate rest and seek support when needed.  Families can make a valuable difference by providing reassurance, encouragement and perspective.

Whatever results lie ahead, I hope our Graduates recognise that their education has equipped them with far more than academic knowledge.  It has also provided opportunities to develop independence, character, resilience and a sense of responsibility for their future.

2027 School Captains and Vice Captains

Congratulations are extended to the 2027 School Captains Ellie Woodhams and Eliyah Mawal, and School Vice Captains Mankin Chum and Ari McLeod who were appointed to lead Oakleigh Grammar for the 2027 school year.  The quality of all candidates who put themselves forward to be a part of our student leadership team for 2027 was very high and is a credit to all of them and their families.  Middle School and Junior School Captains will be announced in the coming weeks.  Formal induction of all of our student leaders will occur on Friday 12 February, 2027.

Responsible Technology Use - Preparing for 2027

As we look towards the 2027 school year, Victorian schools are preparing for expanded requirements governing students’ personal electronic devices under Ministerial Order No. 1515.  The new requirements extend beyond mobile phones to include devices such as smartwatches, headphones and earphones, and smart glasses.

The intention is to support learning, concentration, student wellbeing, safety and privacy by reducing unnecessary distractions during the school day.

The requirements will apply from the beginning of the 2027 school year and include provisions concerning the use and storage of personal devices, subject to specified exemptions and arrangements for particular circumstances.

All parents and guardians will receive a separate communication around this and I encourage you to reinforce these messages at home; particularly the importance of being present, attentive and respectful in learning environments.  Together, we can help our students develop the habits and judgement needed to navigate an increasingly connected world.

Glendi 2026: Celebrating Our Culture, Community and Connection

This weekend, Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November, our wider community will come together at Warawee Park for Glendi, a major celebration of Greek culture, heritage and community spirit.  Glendi promises to be a wonderful occasion for families and friends to enjoy the sights, sounds, flavours and traditions that make this festival such a special event.

A major highlight will be the exciting performance by popular Greek singer Kelly Kelekidou on Saturday evening, bringing the energy and atmosphere of Greek music to the festival.  Families can also look forward to rides for children, a variety of food and market stalls, and vibrant entertainment for all ages.

We are particularly proud that Oakleigh Grammar students will contribute to the celebrations through their own Greek dance performances.  Our students will perform on Sunday 1 November at 12.30 pm, immediately following the formalities.  Their enthusiasm, preparation and commitment reflect the importance we place on cultural appreciation, student participation and the preservation of traditions that connect generations.

I warmly encourage our families and friends to attend Glendi this weekend, enjoy the wonderful entertainment and activities, support the stalls and performers, and join us in celebrating the culture and community that are such an important part of Oakleigh Grammar’s identity.

I take this opportunity to remind all families that the School is closed Monday and on Tuesday for the Melbourne Cup Public Holiday.

Every Student, Every Opportunity

Term 4 is a time to celebrate what has been achieved while remaining focused on the opportunities that lie ahead.  Across our School, students continue to learn, participate, develop their talents and contribute to the life of our community.

For some, exceeding the expected may mean taking the next step academically. For others, it may mean showing greater confidence, demonstrating leadership, persevering through a challenge, including someone who feels left out or making a more meaningful contribution to the community.  Each of these achievements matters.

As we continue through Term 4, I encourage every student to reflect on a simple question: What can I do today to exceed the expected?

It is through the accumulation of these daily choices, actions and commitments that we build a culture of aspiration, responsibility and excellence.

Thank you to our students, staff and families for your continued support and partnership. Let us finish the year with purpose, celebrate the achievements of our community and continue to create opportunities for every student to learn, grow and flourish.

Together, let us continue to Exceed the Expected

Mark Robertson 

Principal