Head of Senior School

Head of Senior School

As we approach the end of another term filled with growth, learning, and community spirit, we are immensely proud of each and every one of our students.

I am in the process of reading and commenting on Year 12 Half Yearly Reports. Whilst there are some exceptional reports and others that indicate that students have more to do, all reports identify areas of strength and provide feedback for next steps for students.

Academic Achievements:

Our students have continued to excel academically, demonstrating their commitment to learning and their perseverance in the face of challenges. From mastering complex mathematical concepts to exploring the depths of literature and history, our students have shown exceptional dedication to their studies.

Co-curricular Success:

Beyond the classroom, our students have also shone brightly in various co-curricular activities. Oxley continues to find success in ISA sports, with a number of teams reaching the finals. On the stage, The Book of Everything and A Midsummer Night’s Dream showcased our talented actors, directors and backstage crew. Music preparations are well underway for Foundation Night and our Pipe Band is leading the ANZAC Day march in Bowral this year.

Service & Community Engagement:

At Oxley, we believe in the importance of giving back to the community and making a positive difference in the world. This term, our Year 8 students have actively engaged in various community service projects, demonstrating compassion, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards others. The ‘S’ of Service may be the last of the Round Square IDEALS, but it is well represented at Oxley with students assisting our College community regularly through ‘Off the Shelf’, the Environment Group and the Content Creation Club to name a few.

Upcoming Events:

As we look ahead to the next term, as well as Foundation Night there are Student Parent Teacher nights for Year 8, 9 & 10 as well as plenty of other opportunities for our community to come together, celebrate achievements, and build meaningful connections.

Staff Farewells:

There are a number of staff leaving us at the end of this term: Mr Andew Jones, Mrs Melissa Lamrock, Head of English – Tahren Hicks and Lorrae Mueller, a long-term member of the College Services team and, for 10 years, my patient lab assistant. We wish them all well in their future endeavours.

Timetable Adjustments:

The changes to teaching staff means that there will be some disruption to the Senior School timetable for the start of Term 2 and some changes will have to be made. Whilst we always focus on the students in these decisions, trying to maintain consistency to benefit their academic outcomes, the timetable is a complex puzzle with a number of restrictions. Please be patient with us as we make these changes. If you have any questions, please contact your child’s mentor who will be able to direct your enquiry to the correct person.

Holiday Wishes:

As we prepare to break for the holidays and I encourage the students to rest and recuperate over the break, Year 12 students should have a clear plan for what they intend to achieve in preparation for the last full term before the HSC Trial Examinations. I would like to extend my warmest wishes to all of our families and to express my gratitude to our dedicated staff, passionate students, and supportive parents for their contributions.

Warm regards

Mr Tristan Bevan
Head of Senior School