
First in Course & Academic Achievement Awards:
Recognising Excellence and Mastery
From the Director of Curriculum 7-12, Lee McGuinness
Achieving a first-place or an overall academic achievement award requires more than just memorisation; it reflects a deeper conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and the skillful application of knowledge. For the first time at Speech Night, Oxley will award first in course not only to Year 11 students but also to those in Years 6 – 10. Additionally, the overall Academic Achievement awards will be extended to Year 11. We look forward to celebrating these students who have exemplified Oxley’s values. They have demonstrated the courage to seek wisdom to reach their academic potential.
Year 12 Holiday Work
The holiday period is an important time to rest and replenish both body and mind. Spending meaningful, joyful time with family and friends is paramount to this restorative process.
For Year 12 students, the holiday period also provides a unique opportunity to reinforce and extend their learning. While teachers will provide specific recommendations for their subject areas, here are some general guidelines to consider:
For students with Major Works, the holiday offers uninterrupted time to set and achieve significant goals, such as:
- Conducting research.
- Finalising the concept and form of their work.
- Reviewing high-quality sample works available through NESA.
- Familiarising themselves with the outcomes and assessment criteria.
- Breaking the process down into a manageable timeline.
- Planning and drafting.
For students without Major Works, it is recommended they consolidate their knowledge by:
- Reviewing foundational content and key concepts to maintain learning momentum.
- Reading their prescribed texts for English (this is essential!).
Starting the year well-prepared for the challenges ahead will not only build academic resilience but also support overall well-being.
Kind regards
Mrs Lee McGuinness
Director of Curriculum 7-12