As we commence Term 4, I extend a warm welcome to all students, families and staff as we begin what is always a vibrant, rewarding and eventful final term of the school year. There is a distinctive sense of energy that accompanies this time of year. Longer days, warmer weather and the anticipation of key milestones create a renewed focus as we work towards the celebrations, achievements and important moments that mark the conclusion of another successful year.
I would like to acknowledge and congratulate our Year 12 students for the commitment and determination they demonstrated during the practice examinations held over the school holidays. These examinations are not intended as a final measure of achievement; rather, they provide students with a valuable opportunity to experience examination conditions, refine their strategies and strengthen their preparedness. The most important reflection after a practice exam is not, ‘What mark did I receive?’ but, ‘What have I learned that will help me improve?’ We encourage students to use the insights and feedback gained to guide their final preparations.
The weeks ahead are especially significant for our Year 12 students. This final chapter of their secondary schooling is often accompanied by excitement, anticipation and, understandably, some nervousness. The upcoming Graduation Mass will provide a meaningful opportunity for our community to gather in gratitude and celebrate the journey our students have undertaken. It is also a time to acknowledge the families, staff and friends who have supported them throughout their years at OLMC.
Beyond these celebrations lies the final phase of preparation for the VCE examinations. These remaining weeks present an opportunity for students to consolidate their learning, deepen their understanding and approach their studies with focus and purpose. Success is rarely accidental; it is the product of consistent effort, discipline and perseverance. We strongly encourage students to continue to access to their teachers’ expertise and support in the lead-up to each examination and make the most of this opportunity.
For students in Years 7 to 11, the message remains equally important: stay focused, stay engaged and finish the year strongly. Consistent attendance, positive learning habits and sustained effort throughout the term will ensure a successful conclusion to 2026 while laying a strong foundation for future growth and achievement.
As we embark on this final term together, I encourage every member of our community to embrace the opportunities ahead, support one another and take pride in the achievements that will undoubtedly unfold in the weeks to come – ‘Finish Strong. Step Forward.’
Protecting Children’s Privacy Online
The online world offers many opportunities for learning and connection, but it also requires children to navigate how their personal information is used. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) is currently developing a Children’s Online Privacy Code to strengthen protections for children and young people under 18. The Code will place additional responsibilities on online services to ensure children’s personal information is handled safely and responsibly.
Families play an important role in supporting children’s online privacy. Simple steps such as reviewing privacy settings, checking app permissions, discussing what information is appropriate to share online, and encouraging children to seek help from a trusted adult can make a significant difference in promoting safe digital participation.
Recent changes announced by Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, will see a range of safety features automatically enabled for young users. These changes follow concerns about the impact of some app design features on children’s wellbeing and mental health. I encourage parents and carers to explore these settings with their children and use them as an opportunity to promote safe, responsible, and balanced engagement with technology. These changes were highlighted in a recent article in The Guardian.
The following resources will provide families with additional information and support: