As we approach the end of the 2025 academic year, it is a good moment to step back and look at what this year has meant for student learning. This has been a year of clear academic focus: setting goals, monitoring progress, and helping students develop the habits that underpin strong results.

Across the school, teachers continue to work deliberately to lift academic standards. They have clarified what success looks like in each subject, used assessment information to shape their teaching, and provided specific feedback to help students move from “almost there” to “I can do this.” Students have learnt how to plan their study more effectively, prepare for assessments with greater structure, and stay with challenging work rather than stepping away from it.

The routines and expectations established at home play a major role in this. Prioritising homework, reading, and revision, limiting distractions when focused work is needed, and maintaining clear messages about effort and responsibility all contribute directly to academic growth. When students see that school and home are aligned, they are more likely to stay committed to their goals.

Looking ahead to 2026, our focus remains steady. We will continue to strengthen focused classroom time, a well-sequenced curriculum, and high expectations for every student. We want each young person to understand their current level of performance, know what their next steps are, and feel supported as they work toward their academic goals. The aim is not pressure for its own sake, but purposeful effort that leads to genuine progress.

Plutarch wrote, “The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled.” Our shared task is to kindle that fire so that students leave Oakleigh Grammar not only with solid results, but with the discipline, confidence, and ambition to keep learning well beyond school.

One last time: Aim High, Achieve More

With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, I extend my deepest thanks to all our teachers, students, and families for their unwavering commitment, faith, and support throughout this school year. Your dedication to learning, service, and the life of our Orthodox Christian community has been a true blessing to witness.

As we now enter the beautiful season of preparation for the Nativity of our Lord, our hearts are drawn once again to the mystery and wonder of the Incarnation; God becoming man for our salvation. In a world often marked by uncertainty and noise, the birth of Christ offers a message of profound hope: that God enters our humanity to heal it, restore it, and fill it with divine light. This central truth of our faith is not just a historical moment but a living reality that shapes who we are and how we love one another.

In our homes and in our school, may this season be a time of renewed peace, repentance, and joy, as we prepare a place in our hearts for Christ, the True Light who comes into the world. May the example of the Holy Theotokos, the shepherds, and the wise men inspire us to draw near to God with humility, gratitude, and faith.

As the year concludes, I pray that the newborn Christ blesses every family with health, harmony, and grace. Thank you once again for walking this journey with us.

Wishing you all a blessed and peaceful Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year 2026.

As we farewell our senior students for 2025, we do so with immense pride and gratitude. This year has been one of remarkable growth academically, personally, and spiritually. Each student has carved their own path, embraced challenges, and discovered strengths they did not know they possessed. Whether the achievements were celebrated in the classroom, on the stage, in leadership, or in moments of quiet personal triumph, they all speak to a year defined by resilience, commitment, and self-belief.

In our Orthodox Christian tradition, we are reminded that every individual is created with unique talents, gifts bestowed by God for us to nurture and use with purpose. This year, our students were empowered to recognise and develop these talents to let their light shine, not for self-glory, but to uplift themselves and those around them. Their efforts reflect the values we cherish; humility, compassion, responsibility, and the courage to grow into the people God calls them to be.

As we prepare for the Christmas season, a time filled with joy but also reflection, we hold especially close those members of our community who found this year challenging. May the birth of Christ offer them comfort, renewal, and hope. Christmas reminds us that God’s love enters the world quietly yet powerfully, and His presence is the greatest gift we can receive, one that brings healing, peace, and a sense of belonging.

May this holy season fill every heart with warmth and may the light of Christ guide our students and their families into a safe, restful, and blessed summer break and a Happy New Year.

Καλά Χριστούγεννα και ευλογημένο το νέο έτος.

May God bless you all.

Paula D-Tsiagalos

Year Level Leader (Years 10 & 11)

Dear parents, students and friends of Oakleigh Grammar. 

2025 has been quite the year with so many special moments and events. These final few weeks have really shown the resilience and determination of our Senior School students. Students were faced with the challenge of completing assessments for all their subject in week , followed by examinations in week 6. Many of our Year 11 students also had external VCAA examinations to complete which was a challenge in itself. Though examinations seem like a tough ask and can often be seen as a painful process for students, it is an opportunity for students to test themselves and gauge how well they have been able to retain information and manipulate it to unseen questions. 

Following the examination period, our Senior students went straight int their Head Start program which saw them have a 12-day intensive program where they attended lessons for their 2026 classes. It was inspiring to see the way in which students embraced this period where students knuckled down and completed work for their respective subjects. The purpose of this program is to ensure students start 2026 in a good position, with foundational information and a sense of what the course offers. 

Students were in the Centre For Academic Excellence, discussing, problem solving and completing work requirements as if they were nearing their examinations again, this was great to see and showed me that academics has certainly grown at Oakleigh Grammar and students are serious about their learning. The vibe of the 12 days was great and students and teachers alike were beaming. The fact this was near the end of the year and students put this much amount of effort is a testament to the hard work that their teachers had put in and the fact that they were extending their students to be the best they could be. The students certainly rose to the occasion. 

During the Head Start program, each respective year level went offsite to enjoy their Pastoral Day Out. Reports from majority of students was positive and it was a nice way to end the year.

To the year 12 students who anxiously await their VCE results, a reminder that come what may, be proud that you made it through to the end of Year 12. Whatever the result, whatever the outcome, remember that you can always learn something from the experience and grow from it. While you may have finished your learning at Oakleigh Grammar, your teachers and support staff are always here to help, should you need it. Please come visit as it is a thrill to hear about your journey and where your journey takes you. 

Take care, thank you all for another successful year, have a safe and restful break. 

Manoj Patel                     

Senior School Pastoral Coordinator, Year Level Leader (Year 12)

As we approach the end of the school year, we would like to acknowledge the hard work, growth, and resilience our Middle School students have demonstrated. This year has been filled with academic challenges, co-curricular opportunities, and moments of personal achievement. We are incredibly proud of the way students have supported one another and shown strong commitment to their learning and wellbeing.

This week, students celebrated the end of the year through our Awards Assembly and acknowledgments, recognising students for their achievements, effort, and contributions across 2025. Students are encouraged to celebrate their own personal success across the year and had the opportunity to enjoy their year level Pastoral Day as a part of the end of year celebrations. 

I have had the privilege of travelling to New Zealand this week with our Year 9 student delegation as part of the Round Square program. Our students represented the school with maturity and enthusiasm and are excited to return and share their experiences with the wider community in the new year.

As we head into the holiday period, I wish all families a safe, restful, and enjoyable break. We hope the Christmas season brings moments of joy, connection, and celebration. After a busy and rewarding year, we encourage students to take time to recharge so they can return in 2026 feeling refreshed and ready for the exciting opportunities awaiting them in the new school year.

Ashlee Scott

Middle School Pastoral Coordinator, Year Level Leader (Years 6 & 7)

ICAS Mathematics and Science Success

We are delighted to share the outstanding achievements of our students in the 2025 ICAS Mathematics and Science Competitions. This internationally recognised assessment challenges students to apply advanced reasoning and problem-solving skills, and our participants demonstrated great commitment and enthusiasm.

ICAS Mathematics

A total of 21 students from Years 6–9 took part in ICAS Mathematics, achieving an excellent set of results:

• 2 Distinctions
• 2 Merits
• 5 Credits

A special congratulations goes to Eric Dong, who achieved the highest Mathematics score in our school, earning a remarkable 33 out of 40. Eric is the recipient of this year’s Principal’s Award for ICAS Mathematics.

ICAS Science

In ICAS Science, 15 students from Years 6–9 proudly represented our school. Our students achieved:

• 2 Distinctions
• 1 Merit
• 2 Credits

Congratulations to Elliot Shiffman, who received the Principal’s Award for ICAS Science with an outstanding score of 35 out of 40, the highest Science result in the school.

We commend all students who participated in ICAS this year. Your dedication to learning and willingness to take on new challenges reflects our school values and commitment to academic excellence. We look forward to building on this success in future competitions.

Guang Wu

MYP Coordinator

As we come to the end of another successful year in the Junior School, I want to acknowledge the dedication, skill, and care shown by our teachers and support staff. Their commitment to high-quality learning and genuine pastoral care has shaped a year of strong growth for every child. I extend my sincere thanks to each member of our team for the professionalism and heart they bring to their work every day.

Our students have continued to embody our HARK values Humility, Aspiration, Respect, and Kindness while striving toward our shared belief of Aim High, Achieve More. They have taken on challenges, celebrated successes, supported one another, and demonstrated that learning is not just about academic progress but also about character. We are proud of the resilience, curiosity, and spirit they have shown throughout the year.

Finally, we congratulate our Year 5 graduates as they prepare to move into Middle School. Over the past six years, they have played an important role in shaping our Junior School culture through their leadership, example, and enthusiasm. We thank them for their contribution to our community and wish them every success as they step confidently into the next chapter of their learning journey.

Shelley Parkes

Assistant Principal - Head of Junior School

As we reach the end of another remarkable year at Oakleigh Grammar, it is a pleasure to reflect on the rich learning journey our Junior School students have embraced. Guided by our school values and inspired by our theme Aim High, Achieve More, our students have demonstrated Humility, Aspiration, Kindness and Respect in everything they do.

This year, learning has flourished both inside and beyond the classroom. In our literacy and numeracy programs, students have taken significant steps forward, building skills that will support them for years to come. Inquiry units have sparked deep thinking, encouraging students to question, explore, and connect ideas in meaningful ways. Just as importantly, our specialist programs have nurtured creativity, physical confidence, and cultural appreciation, offering every child opportunities to discover their passions.

Beyond the classroom walls, learning has been vibrant. Camps, excursions, incursions, celebrations, and service projects have helped students develop teamwork, resilience, and social responsibility. 

Thank you to our teachers, support staff, and families for your unwavering partnership. Together, we continue to nurture confident, compassionate, and capable learners.

Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday season.

Sarah Caffrey

Head of Junior School Curriculum

As we reach the end of another wonderful year in the ELC, it has been a joy to reflect on the growth, achievements, and cherished moments shared across our learning community. The children have continued to shine, embracing new learning experiences, strengthening friendships, and engaging wholeheartedly in play, exploration, and inquiry.

Over the past term, the ELC has been filled with excitement and celebration. From creative art projects and outdoor adventures to festive events and classroom discoveries, our students have finished the year with confidence, curiosity, and a deep sense of belonging. It has been a privilege to witness their enthusiasm and the many ways they have developed socially, emotionally, and academically.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our exceptional ELC teaching team. Their dedication, care, and passion for early childhood education have shaped a nurturing and inspiring environment where every child is valued and encouraged to thrive. We are truly fortunate to have such committed educators guiding our learners each day.

A warm thank you also goes to our families for your ongoing support, partnership, and trust. Your involvement enriches our program and strengthens the sense of community that makes the ELC such a special place.

Finally, we congratulate our Pre-Prep students as they prepare to begin their exciting journey into school next year. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved, and we know they will step into Prep with confidence, readiness, and joy. We wish them every success as they embrace this new chapter.

As we close the year, we look forward to the celebrations ahead and to welcoming everyone back in the new year. 

May your holidays be filled with rest, connection, and happiness.

Katarina Hills

Director of Early Learning Centre

This term has been both busy and rewarding, highlighted by our excursion to Bounce and the Arrowsmith Graduation. The students enjoyed an energetic morning at Bounce, followed by a shared lunch. It was wonderful to see them connecting with one another and building positive relationships outside the classroom.

The Arrowsmith Graduation was a special occasion as we celebrated and farewelled Zoe, Temina and Natasha. It was uplifting to see our Principal, Executive Team, parents, siblings and grandparents come together in support of the graduates.

Our guest speaker, Madeline O’Connor, delivered a moving reflection on her son Gabe’s experience in the Arrowsmith Program and the life-changing impact it had on him. We also heard from former Arrowsmith student Jaymes Lymbouris, now in Year 11 at Oakleigh Grammar, who spoke about how the program has shaped his confidence and supported his progress across his mainstream subjects.

Mrs Papadakis and I extend our warmest congratulations to the three graduates and wish them every success as they begin the next chapter of their educational journey. We also wish all students and their families a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.

Another successful Head Start program has set our senior students up for a strong start in their 2026 mathematics studies. Our dedicated Senior Mathematics team has worked tirelessly throughout this period, using the time to deepen content knowledge, refine planning, and prepare thoroughly for next year’s assessments.

This term, staff also engaged in valuable professional learning opportunities, including the annual MAV Conference, which two of our teachers were fortunate to attend. The conference offered a rich selection of workshops showcasing innovative approaches to teaching mathematics, with insights that will strengthen differentiation, enhance instructional practice, and further support student engagement. The conference also allowed staff to be involved in sessions to improve their CASIO skills for their subject area.

In addition, our Year 12 teachers participated in a specialised CASIO ClassPad session led by a Casio expert, Kevin McMenamin from Mentone Grammar, providing targeted support in applying the CASIO to more complex problems and equipping staff with strategies to improve student achievement.

A heartfelt thank you to our Senior Mathematics team for their hard work, commitment, and ongoing support of our students and one another throughout the year.

With such a dedicated team, 2026 promises to be an even bigger and better year.

As we approach the end of the year, our Oakleigh Grammar community reflects with pride on the meaningful experiences that have shaped the past months. Students and staff alike were excited to conclude the year with a series of remarkable events that truly embody the values and spirit of our school. These opportunities not only enriched learning but also strengthened our sense of identity, community, and cultural appreciation.

On Saturday 1 November, for the Feast Day of Sts Anargiri, the Patron Saints of our local parish, selected students attended the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Sts Anargiri, uniting in prayer to honour the saints who exemplify selflessness and healing.  Our Oakleigh Grammar Byzantine Choir also attended and actively participated in the service, offering readings and hymns.  This sacred occasion highlighted the importance of spiritual reflection and communal worship within our school’s proud Orthodox tradition.

Oakleigh Glendi was another successful and vibrant celebration organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh & District.  Selected students, including drummers and flag bearers, proudly represented our school in the Oakleigh Glendi Parade, celebrating Greek culture and heritage with honour and enthusiasm.  One of the highlights of the day was the series of student performances, from ELC through to Senior School, which showcased talent, teamwork, and cultural pride.

On 16 November, selected SRC members and other students were honoured to represent our school at the 159th Anniversary Commemoration of the Holocaust of the Arkadi Monastery. Hosted by the Pancretan Association of Melbourne, the ceremony paid tribute to the courage and ultimate sacrifice of those who fought for freedom during the 1866 Cretan uprising against Ottoman rule. The commemoration commenced with a solemn Doxology at the Holy Monastery “Axion Estin” in Northcote, followed by a dignified wreath-laying service. Representing our school community with pride, the 2026 School Captain, Elena Logan, and Vice Captain, Tijana Karac, laid a wreath in remembrance of the heroes who lost their lives.

As we close this memorable year, we congratulate all students who went above and beyond to represent Oakleigh Grammar with pride and to support Hellenic events across the Greek community. Their leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment embody the heart of our school.

Celebrating a Year of Global Learning

What an incredible year it has been for Oakleigh Grammar. Becoming part of a global network of like-minded schools who share the Round Square IDEALS has given our students access to extraordinary experiences where they are the leaders, adventurers, and changemakers. These opportunities allow their education to extend beyond the classroom, fostering global competency and a deeper understanding of their place within an interconnected and ever-evolving world

Five Oakleigh Grammar students and two teachers recently travelled to Whanganui, New Zealand, to take part in the Round Square Conference hosted by Whanganui Collegiate School. This conference provides an incredible and unique opportunity for our students to engage in activities that celebrate the IDEALS of Adventure and Internationalism. Fourteen Round Square schools from across the globe are participating, creating a vibrant environment where students collaborate, share perspectives, and learn from one another.

Some of the experiences include rafting, trail walks, guided hikes through the region’s stunning natural landscapes, and high ropes challenges. These activities connect students with the culture and environment of Whanganui while helping to build resilience, confidence, teamwork, and a strengthened sense of global citizenship.

Recently, our Year 7 students took part in a meaningful service activity, preparing sandwiches for a crisis centre as part of their pastoral program and the school’s commitment to Service as Action. Working together as a team, they produced an incredible 400 sandwiches, which were delivered to those in need through the organisation 5 Loaves.

Through this experience, students developed empathy, collaboration skills, and an understanding of the impact small acts of kindness can have on the wider community. This initiative also aligns strongly with the Round Square IDEALS of Service and Leadership, encouraging our students to become compassionate, socially responsible global citizens.

This year has been a remarkable one for our SRC, with students demonstrating leadership, compassion, and initiative across a wide range of projects.  Throughout the year, SRC representatives worked collaboratively to support school events, build community connections, and strengthen student voice at Oakleigh Grammar.  Their commitment to service and willingness to take action has made a meaningful impact on our school culture and the wider community.

Christmas is a time of joy, love, and togetherness, yet for many families this season can be a painful reminder of hardship.  Some face financial difficulties, homelessness, or food insecurity, making it challenging to meet even their basic needs.  While many households gather to exchange gifts and enjoy festive meals, others struggle simply to get through each day.  This contrast can make the season especially difficult for vulnerable families.  By extending kindness and generosity, we can help ensure that everyone feels the warmth and spirit of Christmas.  To support those in need, our SRC organised a meaningful Christmas Appeal, collecting non-perishable food items for families experiencing hardship due to reasons such as illness, unemployment, or financial crisis.  On Wednesday 26 November, Year 8 students delivered all donations to the Greek Welfare Centre of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese. During their visit, students learned about the organisation’s impactful programs and the vital support it provides to members of our community.  We sincerely thank all students and families for their heartfelt contributions to this important fundraiser.

The final SRC event of the year saw our 2026 School Captains and Vice Captains proudly representing Oakleigh Grammar at the Remembrance Day wreath-laying ceremony, organised by the Oakleigh and Carnegie RSL.  Their participation honoured the memory of those who served and offered a moment of reflection on the values of courage, sacrifice, and peace.

As we conclude this successful year, we congratulate all SRC members for their dedication, leadership, and the many initiatives they brought to life.  Their strong student voice and commitment to service continue to inspire our community and set a powerful example for their peers.

Digital Technology: Christmas Creativity in 3D

Keeping in the spirit of Christmas, the Digital Technology Department has been busier than ever as we proudly introduced our new five-head Prusa XL 3D printer into the classroom. After a series of initial trials, and a few memorable printing mishaps, our students embraced the challenge using computational thinking, particularly decomposition and problem-solving, to diagnose and overcome the early hurdles that come with any new piece of advanced technology.

The results have been nothing short of spectacular. Students have successfully designed and printed a range of festive creations, including Christmas dragons and geometric Christmas trees, adding a unique Digital Technologies twist to the end-of-year celebrations. These projects have not only sparked creativity but also strengthened students’ understanding of additive manufacturing, precision modelling, and the iterative nature of digital design.

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Looking ahead to 2026, students are eager to expand their skills further by combining robotics with 3D printing, opening new pathways for innovation, engineering thinking, and collaborative design.

We proudly share a few of our finished models below and look forward to even more creative achievements next year.

Merry Christmas to all, and may this season of hope and renewal bring you peace, good health and a prosperous year ahead. 

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REMINDER: VTAC 2026 UPCOMING KEY DATES

CHANGE OF PREFERENCE AND POST SCHOOL PATHWAYS MEETINGS  FOR YEAR 12

Change of Preference/Post School pathways Meetings with me will occur over 2 days outlined below. 

• Thursday 11 December in person at school or online
• Friday 12 December online only 

All students (Scored or Unscored) please book in a time  Booking link here: Make a booking  

On a final Note 

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! It’s a privilege to be your Careers Advisor at Oakleigh Grammar, and I look forward to working with you again in 2026. Enjoy the holiday break! 🙂

First Aid 

To all families who received an email or printed 2026 Medical Risk Management Plans, please return as soon as possible to First Aid or via email firstaid@oakleighgrammar.vic.edu.au

It is vital that we have the correct documentation & medications to care for your child.

Vicki Keith 

First Aid

2026 Term Dates

The term dates for the 2026 School Year are now available to view on the School website.