The Times – Term 1 2026

Ms Kay Peddle – Principal

Welcome everyone to the 2026 school year. A warm welcome to our Year 7 students, new students in other year levels and staff members who have joined our school community. We look forward to working with you and sharing in your successes at Pascoe Vale Girls College. 

Thank you to the parents who have joined the School Council; your time, commitment, and support play a vital role in strengthening our school community and enriching the experience of all our students.

As we reach the end of a busy and productive Term 1, it is very pleasing to be able to reflect on the achievements and positive beginnings that have set the tone for the year ahead.

Across all year levels, classrooms have been vibrant spaces of engagement and curiosity. Our focus is to establish and nurture a positive learning environment where every student can achieve positive outcomes. 

Term 1 has also provided a range of opportunities beyond the classroom. From House events and extracurricular programs to leadership activities and excursions, it has been wonderful to see students representing our school with pride and demonstrating teamwork, commitment, and school spirit. The student leadership program at the college is diverse and creates a platform for student voice and agency that we value and acknowledge at the school. 

The learning opportunities, both through the academic program and co-curricular will continue throughout the year. Students are encouraged to remain focused, organised, and proactive in seeking support when needed. Our staff are always here to help.

Attendance and punctuality remain key priorities. Establishing consistent routines early in the year has a significant impact on student success. It is important that students arrive at school ready to learn each day. Please remember to check Compass regularly and if needed, please contact your child’s Year Level Coordinator regarding your child’s learning or wellbeing. 

We encourage parents and guardians to stay actively involved in their child’s education. Your support and participation are invaluable in creating a positive learning environment. Please contact Middle or Senior School regarding your child’s progress or if you wish to discuss wellbeing related concerns. 

It was very encouraging to see so many parents and students in discussions with teachers at conferences this term. We hope all students and parents have utilised the feedback provided to guide conversations regarding achievement and improvement for learning growth.

I wish all families a safe, happy, and restful break. As we head into Term 2, we look forward to continuing to work together to create a supportive environment where every student can succeed and achieve their best. 

Students return to school for Term 2 on Monday 20 April. Please check the college calendar for important dates and events for 2026.  

Allan Thomson Environment scholarships 

Congratulations to the following students who were awarded the Allan Thomson Environment Scholarship for 2026: Aamna Memon, Aaliya Memon, Aiman Khan, Hadia Khan, Marya Issa, Lara Issa, Inshirah Gull, and Hafssa Rafea. All these students were able to clearly articulate their views regarding the impact of pollution on our oceans and what can be done to protect this valuable resource.

2025 High Achievers

A Message to Our Year 7–9 Students – End of Term 1

As Term 1 comes to an end, we would like to congratulate all our Year 7, 8 and 9 students on a fantastic start to the school year.

For our Year 7 students, starting secondary school is a big step—and you should be proud of the way you have settled into new routines, navigated lockers, timetables and classrooms, and begun building new friendships.

Our Year 8 students have continued to grow in confidence and independence, taking on greater responsibility for their learning and contributing positively to classroom discussions and school life.

For our Year 9 students, this term has been about stepping up as leaders in the Middle School, challenging yourselves academically, and setting strong foundations for the years ahead.

Across all year levels, we have seen students demonstrate our school values of respect, diversity and achievement —whether engaging in learning, participating in sport and co-curricular activities, or supporting one another in everyday school moments. These qualities make our Middle School a vibrant and inclusive community.

As you move into the holiday break, take time to rest, recharge and enjoy a well-earned break. We encourage you to stay active, spend time with family and friends, and do the things that help you feel refreshed and ready for Term 2.

We are proud of your efforts this term and look forward to welcoming you back with new learning opportunities and goals ahead.

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday break!

Introducing our Year 7s

On the first day of school there was a joint assembly for Year 7s and Year 12s. A few brave Year 7s spoke in front of the assembly. These are part of their speeches:

“My name is Zunairah some of my hobbies and interests are taekwondo, cooking and going on hikes. I like these hobbies because their spontaneous, fun and out going. A reason I enjoy cooking is because I love seeing the looks on peoples faces when they try my food and I like going to taekwondo to hang out with friends.”

“Hi everyone, my name is Elif. Year 12s there is going to be more SACS and exams after exams, I can already feel the excitement from here, which is…none… awesome!! But somehow you will keep it all together, and from my point of view that is going to be really entertaining to watch (;”

“My name is Camille and I love reading its my most prominent hobby to be honest, however I also enjoy sketching and writing my own books. I am very excited to start in 2026 and so far enjoy partaking in this year’s production and enjoy subjects like Humanities, Technology and Drama.”

“Hi, I’m Emily from 7A! I love hanging out with my friends and family, listening to music, and sketching fashion designs. I also enjoy meeting new people and trying new things every now and then.”

“Hi everyone my name is Irha. My primary school was Glenroy Central Primary School. My favourite book is Smile by Raina Telgemeier. I am interested in learning more about technology and the skills.”

Year 9 JUMP

In 2026, all Year 9 students will complete 2 term-long (10 week) JUMP electives as part of their elective program. JUMP stands for Join In, Understand, Member of Community, Participate. The JUMP electives focus on developing general skills and capabilities and provide an opportunity to make connections within the school and community. 

In Term 1 some Year 9 students have participated in the following electives:

• Community Connections – volunteering fortnightly at Pascoe Vale North and Westbreen Primary Schools and planning activities to engage with primary students
• Grow Cook Share – growing and using seasonal produce with visits to Bunnings and the Flower and Garden Show
• Debating and Public Speaking – writing a speech and making a video with tips for future debaters

Students have engaged positively with the JUMP electives this term. Thank you to Ms Wood, Ms Reid, Ms Barbazza, Ms Jamieson and Ms Forbes for designing the curriculum for this program.

“Our Year 9 JUMP Program has been an exciting and meaningful experience, giving us the chance to learn beyond the classroom while supporting younger students at our local primary school. We loved meeting the little kids each week, planning engaging activities for them, and building genuine relationships as we learned about their hobbies and interests. It always felt special when they remembered us, and even sad to say goodbye at the end of each session. We especially enjoyed helping them solve maths problems and running our own “brain breaks,” where all the students were enthusiastically involved in the activities we created.

The walk to and from the school became a valuable time for us to debrief, reflect on what went well, and think about what we could improve next time. Along the way, we also made new friendships with peers we wouldn’t normally work with and built confidence in ourselves and others. Overall, the JUMP Program has been so much fun and has given us unforgettable experiences both inside and outside the classroom.”

Miss Wood’s JUMP Class Primary

Zyneb Haiyal, Shona Singh, Rabiah Parker, Simay Eroksuz, Zara Syeda

Year 7 Celebration Assembly

by Nafisah Ahmed from 7D

On Monday 23rd of March we went to the auditorium for our final Term 1 Year 7 Connect class. We sat quietly waiting to see who would receive awards. Congratulations to all those students who were presented with certificates for outstanding Term 1 Progress Reports.

7A – Elif, Azka, Farwa, Maryam, Chloe, Elisha, Juliet, Irha

7B – Muberra, Alisha, Aysha, Naya, Zainab S, Jeyda

7C – Naba, Sumaya, Charlotte, Laila, Eshaal, Angelina, Kimberley

7D – Nafisah, Barira, Jessica, Humeyraa, Sidra, Hazel, Sihansa, Tiffany

NAPLAN Testing Completion – Term 1

We are delighted to share that all scheduled Year 7 and Year 9 NAPLAN testing was successfully completed at Pascoe Vale Girls College during Weeks 7 and 8 of Term 1.

Our students are to be congratulated for the positive attitude, focus and determination they demonstrated throughout the testing period. They approached each assessment with maturity and resilience, contributing to a calm and well-organised testing environment.

NAPLAN results will be processed over the coming months and will be available from Term 3. 

Thank you to our students, staff and families for working together to ensure a smooth and successful testing experience.

Senior School Term 1 Recap

It has been a jam-packed term for Senior School. This term, Year 12 students participated in the Year 12 Camp, Iftar Night, and an excursion to La Trobe University. Year 11 students commenced VCE and VCE VM, with VCE VM students beginning their TAFE programs. Year 11 VCE students also enjoyed an RMIT University “I Belong” excursion, followed by a movie at Hoyts Melbourne Central. Meanwhile, Year 10 students successfully transitioned into Senior School.

Overall, it has been a dynamic start to the year, and we look forward to building on this momentum in Term 2.

Year 12 Report

The school year kicked off with excitement as we proudly welcomed the Class of 2026. 

Our Year 12 students returned with big smiles ready to embrace their final year. Many marked the occasion with their “First Last Day” photos, just the first of many memorable milestones to come.

We loved welcoming our new year 7’s and Year 12s with a welcoming assembly, introducing our 2026 College Captains, friendship bracelet making and adding to the buzz, students received their much anticipated Year 12 jackets and hoodies a true rite of passage and a proud symbol of their final year journey.  We can’t wait to see what this incredible group achieves in the months ahead!

Highlights from Year 12 Camp

The year 12 camp took place at the Briars Camp, in Mount Martha, on 9th-10th of February. It was the most memorable experience for me and one that I’ll cherish long past high school. The two days spent at the camp were not only momentous but also allowed me to unwind and appreciate the simple moments, such as playing UNO with friends while still in our pyjamas. I believe the year could not have started in a better way than with this camp. The activities at the Briars included the giant swing and archery, which students enjoyed with the utmost enthusiasm and excitement, and the most wholesome sight was seeing students cheer each other on within their groups.

My personal highlight of the Briars camp was the disco night, and most students would certainly agree with me. Later in the evening, students and teachers gathered and had an event filled night with dance and music. It was a day that I wish would never end. The school-organised games, such as the Scavenger hunt and Graduation Heist challenge was also enjoyable because I was able to strengthen bonds with my close friends, and work collaboratively to win! It was truly a remarkable camp that helped forge lasting and meaningful memories for the year 12 students.  

Dilni Jothiratnage – College Captain

Year 12 Camp was undoubtedly one of the defining highlights of our final year, bringing together adventure, laughter and moments we will carry with us long after graduation. From the adrenaline rush of the giant swing to the chaos and energy of the pyjama party, every activity pushed us out of our comfort zones and encouraged us to fully embrace the experience. Although we had already spent years together, camp gave our entire cohort the chance to grow even closer, strengthening friendships and forming new connections in ways that only shared challenges and late nights can.

I have made friends with people I would otherwise not be able to speak to as we weren’t in any of the same classes. It was also incredibly special to bond with our teachers in a more relaxed setting, sharing conversations and laughs that went far beyond the classroom.

A personal highlight was being in a cabin with all my closest friends, Cabin Korki, which quickly became the centre of nonstop laughter, late-night chats and unforgettable memories. The sense of camaraderie in our cabin reflected the spirit of the whole camp. In an impressive display of teamwork and determination, our cabin proudly won all the events, a victory we will not be letting anyone forget anytime soon. 

Of course, no camp story would be complete without mentioning the now infamous crow who boldly stole some unattended food, proving that even the wildlife wanted to be part of the action. Overall, Year 12 Camp perfectly captured the unity, competitiveness and joy of our cohort, reminding us how special this final year together truly is. We will all cherish this time for years to come, and it has set our year up for success. 

Faraza Aziz – College Captain

Year 12 “Anything but a Bag” Day

On Friday, 13th March, the Year 12 cohort embraced their creativity and sense of humour with an epic ‘Anything But a Bag Day!’ Students swapped out their everyday school bags for all sorts of inventive and hilarious alternatives. From shopping trolleys, laundry baskets and ride on cars to mini fridges and even tents, it was a day that truly showcased the Year 12s’ flair for creativity! Teachers also joined in on the fun, bringing their own ideas and adding to the lively spirit of the day. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, friendly competition and a sense of unity as students and teachers took part in this memorable event. It was a great way for the Year 12 cohort to bond over their final year of school and reflected their strong sense of community. A big thanks to the leaders and teachers for their hard work to help bring the idea to life, without their dedication and enthusiasm, it would not have been the same. ‘Anything but a Bag Day’ became one for the books and a day that will be remembered for years to come!

Narjes Aljanabi

Year 12 Captain

Events like this are a wonderful way to build community, create lasting memories, and celebrate the personality of our senior students. Congratulations to all involved for making the day such a fun and memorable occasion!

We look forward to more moments like these as our Year 12 cohort continues to make the most of their final year.

Mrs Clark

Year 12 Coordinator

Year 11 RMIT 

On Wednesday 25th March the Year 11 cohort went to RMIT for an introduction to university life. A RMIT representative informed the students about what to expect when attending a university. A highlight was going around the university interviewing current RMIT students on the course they are completing and at what stage of the course. After a short lunch and shop at Melbourne Central, students then watched “Goat”, a movie at Hoyts.

Senior School Assembly

Term 1 Senior School Events and Friday Fundays

It has been quite an eventful term for Senior School! From as simple as the iconic board games, to Valentine’s Day, many exciting activities were hosted at PVGC for students to enjoy and make new memories in the early school year! Senior School’s Friday Funday continues to have strong turnouts, especially this year with the competitive kahoot games between students and board game sessions held at lunchtime. The chalk drawing event that occurred on the 5th of March also gained a high level of popularity. Many students were able to let their imagination run wild and display their artistic talent in the quad! The Year 12 Valentines Surprise on the 13th of February was most definitely a memorable day for PVGC, with the amazing VCE VM stall that became the highlight of lunchtime, as well as the beautifully decorated year 12 locker bay. Recently, ‘Bring Anything But A Bag Day’ was hosted by Senior School to give Year 12 students an invaluable opportunity to become creative and express themselves through their selections! It has certainly been a remarkable few weeks for senior school students and we hope to host many more exciting events in the coming terms for this year!

Dilni Jothiratnage

School Captain

Multicultural / Harmony Day

Multicultural Day was held on March 27 it was a vibrant and memorable occasion for our school community. Alberti, our Social House, was pleased to see so many students coming together to celebrate the rich diversity within our school.

A highlight of the day was the return of the much loved Alberti photobooth, where students eagerly captured special moments with friends and took home polaroid keepsakes to remember the occasion.

Our Wellbeing Captains, Kevika and Ruby, worked alongside College Captains, Dilni and Faraza, to organise a fantastic lunchtime event in the Michael Harris Theatre. The celebration featured four energetic and engaging dance performances, followed by a colourful fashion parade.

Adding to the festivities, Alberti House Captains distributed 350 handmade badges to commemorate the day. These limited edition creations were a hit. Were you lucky enough to receive one?

We extend our sincere thanks to all performers and participants for proudly sharing their cultures with our school community. Staff and students were captivated by the traditional outfits on display, each representing a unique story.

We are incredibly proud of our diverse student cohort and the inclusive community we continue to build together.

Alberti House Captains

& Mrs Clark, Alberti House Leader

Leadership Day

Student Leadership Day at Pascoe Vale Girls College marked an energetic start to the year, bringing together the 2026 leadership team to connect, collaborate, and begin shaping their plans for the year! The day opened with introductions and icebreakers, allowing student leaders to get to know one another and their teams. Leaders also developed their goals for the year and employed SMART goal targets to guide their initiatives. The level of creativity and ambition in the room motivated everyone and built anticipation for the events to occur throughout the year!  Students introduced themselves and their leadership roles through “All About Me” posters, offering the school community a glimpse into the people behind the positions. Planning for International Women’s Day also began, with groups designing engaging and inclusive lunchtime carnival activities.

To close the day, the School Captains led a series of team-building activities, including “Common Ground,” “Find the Object,” and “Two Truths and a Lie.” These challenges brought plenty of laughter while strengthening communication and teamwork. Overall, the day struck the perfect balance between productivity and fun setting the tone for a year of strong leadership and collaboration.

Faraza Aziz

School Captain

International Women’s Day Carnival

On the 6th of March, the International Women’s Day carnival was celebrated at PVGC. It was a vibrant and a festive event that brought together our school community to celebrate women’s creativity and acknowledge their strengths and achievements. To make the day delightful and worthwhile, Student Leaders hosted lunchtime games such as chalk obstacle course, bean bag games, life-sized tic-tac-toe to promote empowerment, encourage confidence, build motor and team skills. Additionally, photobooth and henna booths encouraged creativity , foster celebration, cultural connection and community engagement. Overall, these interactive experiences honoured women while creating lasting memories.

Ishmal Asif

Year 11 Wake House Captain

WAKE House Talent Show and Karaoke Event

The WAKE House Talent Show and Karaoke Event on Monday 23rd March was a standout highlight.  Students took to the stage with enthusiasm, showcasing a wide range of talents. They included powerful vocal performances, to entertaining and light-hearted acts that had the audience cheering and laughing along.

The karaoke segment was a particular crowd favourite, encouraging broad participation and creating a fun, inclusive atmosphere where everyone felt welcome to join in. It was wonderful to see students supporting one another, building confidence, and celebrating each performance.

A special mention must go to the WAKE leaders, whose planning, organisation, and supervision ensured the event ran smoothly from start to finish. Their dedication and teamwork were evident in every detail, contributing to an event that was both enjoyable and memorable for all involved.

Overall, the WAKE House Talent Show and Karaoke Event was a fantastic success, highlighting the vibrant talent within our school. We look forward to seeing this event grow even bigger in the future.

2026 Alberti Leaders

St John Ambulance

The St John Ambulance division has had an excellent start to the year. Our members participated in our annual St John information events, which included the CPR lab and students using a stretcher from the St John Ambulance vehicles.

We welcome our first-ever PVGC St John Ambulance Captains. Our 2026 captains are Hibba QURESHI and Shona Singh. They have done a phenomenal job in teaching our first aid sessions, running demonstrations and are working behind the scenes to plan our proficiency badges.

So far, we have covered DRSABCD (Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, and Defibrillation), how to treat a variety of wounds, severe external bleeding, how to treat someone who is choking, and how to treat sprains, strains, dislocations, and fractures.

Climate Debating Competition

Last Friday we had some of our students represent PVGC at Melbourne Museum in a debating tournament about climate change. The topics we debated on were:

That personal responsibility is ineffective at reducing the environmental impact of humans

That nature should be afforded legal rights (Earth jurisprudence)

Despite the fact that debating was new to some students, all students did an exemplary job in presenting their arguments. Thank you to Stephen Ireland for signing our school up for the competition, the students had a wonderful time!

The speakers were: 

Amalmi Fernando (First Speaker), Betul Kayadibi (Second Speaker), Arfa Memon (Third Speaker); and 

Lojien Alsulami (First Speaker), Leeza Zubair (Second Speaker), Hibba Qureshi (Third Speaker).

Debating Day

We were lucky enough to have a selection of students from Year 7 and 8 participate in a debating day on Friday the 27th of March. The day included an info session where our debating leaders Arfa Memon and Amalmi Fernando explained the fundamentals of debating, after which the students had time to prepare their debates.

The topics for the day were:

• That we should ban airlines from overbooking flights
• That we regret the rise of social media as a primary news source
• That it should be free to camp in all national parks in Australia

The students then presented their debates to our adjudicators, including our Year 11 volunteers: Charlotte Hays, Marwa Eissa, Kistra Giddings, Ayesha Asim and Alice Curran. We also welcomed back a past student, Ureba Memon, who returned to help adjudicate the speeches.

The students were engaged and presented passionate speeches on their chosen topics and our adjudicators were professional, supportive and provided detailed feedback and advice on how to improve.

Congratulations for all students who presented their first debates, and a special congratulations for the students who won best speaker for the day:

• Mara Nacionales
• Aava Bogunovic
• Gordana Bogunovic
• Irha Syed
• Melanie Da Silva

Thank you to Stephen Ireland, Dimitra Darmos and Dani Bedohazy for your support on the day.

Slater and Gordon Lawyers visit

FUTURE LAWYERS IN MAKING

Our PVGC students had an amazing time at Slater and Gordon Lawyers, getting a real taste of life in the legal world! From courtroom insights to behind-the-scenes stories, it was an eye-opening experience.

One of the most impactful parts of the day was hearing directly from practicing lawyers about their personal journeys. They spoke openly about their university experiences, the challenges of studying law, managing exam stress, securing internships and building resilience in a competitive industry. This real-world advice helped demystify the pathway from secondary school to university and beyond.

Key takeaway: Career paths aren’t always straight lines — the skills you already have, like speaking another language, problem-solving, or working in a team, can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Every experience counts!

The session was extra special as two of our PVGC alumni Class of 2016, Kaif Ul Wara and Cherine Saraya, were able to join and share their stories with the students. Their insights, experiences, and advice made the day even more inspiring — thank you for taking the time to give back to the next generation! 

Remember, your journey is unique, your skills are powerful, and your future is full of potential.

Practical Advice from a PVGC Alumni

Our Year 11 and 12 students recently had the pleasure of welcoming back PVGC alum, Elise Keles-Huseyin (Class of 2025), for an inspiring and practical alumni session. As a recent graduate now beginning her journey into dentistry, Elise shared honest reflections on her time at school and the transition into university life.

Speaking openly about the challenges she faced — from managing workload and exam pressure to balancing study with personal commitments — Elise reassured students that feeling overwhelmed at times is completely normal. What matters most, she emphasised, is developing habits that keep you focused and moving forward.

One piece of advice truly stood out:

“Be organised! If you don’t know where to start, write down what you need to do and tick it off as you go.”

Elise explained how simple strategies like planning ahead, setting realistic goals, and breaking tasks into manageable steps made a significant difference in her success. 

Her message was clear: organisation builds confidence, reduces stress, and creates momentum. Students were highly engaged throughout the session, asking thoughtful questions about subject selection, study techniques, university expectations, and pathways into competitive courses like dentistry. 

We are incredibly proud to see our alumni returning to support and guide the next generation. Elise’s resilience, determination, and willingness to give back reflect the strong community spirit at PVGC.

As she begins her dentistry journey, we wish Elise every success. PVGC is cheering you on every step of the way!

La Trobe University Excursion

On Wednesday 18 March, 90 of our Year 12 VCE students had a fun and engaging day at La Trobe University.

Students took part in one of three workshops—Business, Law or Microbiology—and quickly got involved in hands-on activities.

In the Law workshop, students stepped into the Moot Court and ran a mock trial. Taking on roles as lawyers and jury members, they asked great questions and got right into the case. After some lively discussion, the jury delivered a “Not Guilty” verdict.

The Microbiology workshop gave students the opportunity to swab their own cheeks and examine cells from inside their mouths under a microscope. This immersive experience was a highlight for many, as students were fascinated by what they observed and felt like real medical students working in a laboratory setting.

In the Business session, students were challenged to develop their own business ideas, encouraging creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial thinking.

In addition to the workshops, students received valuable information about university pathways, including the Aspire program, and participated in a guided campus tour. They also spent time in the Agora, experiencing the social side of university life and gaining a real sense of what it is like to be a university student.

It was a fun, hands-on day that gave students a great insight into life after school.

Year 12 Work Experience – Preston Police Station

Student Interviewer: Esraa El Kassar
Student Interviewee: Fatima El-Achkar
Placement Location: Preston Police Station

This report outlines the experiences of Fatima during her Year 12 work placement at Preston Police Station. The purpose of this interview was to gain insight into the daily operations of a police station, the skills required in law enforcement, and the overall learning experience from a student perspective.

Fatima completed her placement at Preston Police Station, where she was introduced to various aspects of police work. Her responsibilities included observing front desk operations, assisting with basic administrative tasks, and learning about how officers respond to incidents. 

During her placement, Fatima described a typical day as structured but varied. She spent time observing interactions between officers and members of the public, learning how reports are documented, and understanding communication systems used within the station. She also gained insight into teamwork and how different roles within the station contribute to overall operations.

Fatima developed several important skills throughout her placement. These included communication skills, professionalism, teamwork, and attention to detail. 

One of the challenges Fatima experienced was adapting to the formal and disciplined environment of the police station. She also found it challenging to fully understand complex procedures within a short period of time. However, she overcame these challenges by asking questions, staying observant, and maintaining a positive attitude throughout her placement.

Fatima described the work environment at Preston Police Station as professional, supportive, and highly structured. She observed that officers worked collaboratively and demonstrated strong communication and respect for one another.

Overall, Fatima found the placement to be a valuable and eye-opening experience. professionally. This experience has influenced her perspective on careers in law enforcement and has increased her appreciation for the work police officers do in the community. 

Class of 2025 Destinations

NGV Ian Potter Centre Excursion 

Earlier in the term the Year 11 Art Making and Exhibiting class were fortunate enough to be taken on an educational tour and writing session through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and the 20th Century Australian Art Exhibition at the NGV Ian Potter Centre. This wonderful opportunity allowed students to see their studied works in person and learn how to think and write more deeply about art. 🖼️

Year 10 Food Glorious Food

Week 8

One of the topics covered in Year 10 Food Glorious Food is cake decoration. In our Wednesday 18/3 double, year 10’s created flowers using a piping bag. They created a rose, sunflower and geranium. They finished the lesson off with making royal icing roses.

Thank you to Hafssa R, Aliyah K, Muna L and RayanT who kindly let me photograph their amazing work.

Week 9

This week students recreated the mushroom cup cake. Once again continuing to develop their food decoration skills. 

Mrs Rodda

Year 9 Grow Cook Share Melbourne International Garden Show

A small group of dedicated gardeners visited the Garden show AKA  “The Zoo for Flowers” (Thanks Shahd!)

“A lot of old ladies came up and spoke to us and a lot of old ladies told us we were gorgeous and the flowers were gorgeous and they were so happy. We gave  our seats to the old ladies”

“It was nearly $15 for chips with tomato sauce.”

“There were really nice shops and businesses with beautiful jewellery.”

“ I loved it”

And a picture is worth a thousand words……

Year 9 Outdoor Education Hits the Waves at URBNSURF

On Monday 25 March, our Year 9 Outdoor Education students took part in an exciting and valuable Water Safety Program and surf lesson at URBNSURF. This experience provided students with the opportunity to build essential water safety knowledge and develop their surfing skills in a controlled and supportive environment.

Throughout the day, students learned key concepts such as identifying rip currents, understanding ocean awareness, and practising safe rescue techniques. In the surf session, they demonstrated great enthusiasm and resilience as they worked on paddling, standing, and wave timing.

This program plays an important role in preparing students for their upcoming extended Surf Coast camp at the end of term. It was fantastic to see students stepping outside their comfort zones, supporting one another, and growing in confidence in the water.

Anthony Freeman

Outdoor Education

Afterschool Volleyball Program – Be Part of the Group Every Friday

Our Afterschool Volleyball Program continues to thrive each Friday from 3:15–5:00pm, offering students from Years 7–12 the opportunity to get active, connect with peers, and be part of the group in a welcoming environment.

Open to all skill levels, the program fosters a fantastic social atmosphere where students feel supported and included. Whether new to volleyball or building on existing skills, everyone is encouraged to join in, have fun, and feel part of a positive team environment.

The sessions are led by Coach Jack from the Melbourne Volleyball Club, who brings energy, expertise, and a strong focus on skill development and teamwork. It has been great to see students growing in confidence, forming friendships, and enjoying some friendly competition each week.

This program is proudly funded by the Active Schools Program, helping to provide accessible and inclusive sporting opportunities for all students.

Anthony Freeman

Physical and Sport Education Leader

Intermediate Volleyball Division Playoffs – Strong Results for PVGC

On Wednesday 25 March, Pascoe Vale Girls College hosted a number of local schools for the Intermediate Division Interschool Volleyball playoffs, with eight teams competing across the day.

PVGC entered two teams, both performing well and representing the school positively. Our teams finished in 2nd and 3rd place overall, a great result against strong competition.

Well done to all students involved for their effort and participation.

Thank you to Mr Walker (Pe teacher) and Jack Ho (Afterschool Volleyball Program Coach) for coaching the teams and running the day. 

Team members – Amani, Jiaan, Talah, Rawan, Malak, Syeda, Nina, Emerson, Lara, Mira, Betul, Aya, Asma, Ghazal, Sarah, Assiya

Anthony Freeman

Sports Coordinator

Senior Girls Volleyball – Division Success for PVGC

On 12 February, Pascoe Vale Girls College hosted Glenroy Private College and Al Siraat College for the Senior Girls Interschool Volleyball competition, with PVGC entering two teams on the day.

Both teams represented the school well, competing strongly across their matches. It was a successful day for PVGC, with one of our teams finishing in 1st place overall.

Well done to all students involved for their effort and contribution to a great day of volleyball.

Thank you to Mr Walker for taking the team on the day. 

Team members – Sarah, Zuhoor, Aneesha, Fatima, Giwa, Syeda, Zoha, Inshirah, Yaman, Jenan, Hooria, Sally, Abeer, Ascia, Aliza

Anthony Freeman

Sports Coordinator

Year 10 Civil Rights

This term we have been learning about the US Civil Rights movement, investigating the impact of the Civil War (1861-1865) on society and the ongoing fight for equality throughout the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. We explored significant events and key individuals like Rosa Parks, Claudette Colvin, A. Philip Randolph, Emmett Till, James Zwerg, John F. Kennedy and Dr Martin Luther King Jr. We investigated the March on Washington and the short-term effect it had in passing the 1964 Civil Rights Act. We learnt about exercising the right to protest freely and the difference a peaceful, non-violent approach to changing laws can make. Students also reflected on how Dr King’s message of peace, freedom and equality resonates with us today. We look forward to unpacking Australia’s very own Civil Rights Movement in Term 2. 

Gemma Traill

Learning Area Leader – The Humanities

Year 9 Economics

This term, Year 9 students investigated Australia’s connections with and the function of the global economy. We learnt many things, including: 

• How businesses use persuasive advertising to sell their products. 
• What determines the price of a product.
• Very important life skills like how to save money, what it means when we invest money, and why we should always think carefully when we make decisions with our money. 
• How to identify scams and how to avoid them.
• Ways to use our bank accounts wisely and keep our assets safe.
• Our rights and responsibilities as consumers. 

We enjoyed the film Confessions of a Shopaholic to explore the consequences of overspending on credit and applied our knowledge of Economics & Business to a case study. 

Gemma Traill

Learning Area Leader – The Humanities

Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge

March 3rd 2026

This year we had 8 students volunteer to undertake the Bebras challenge.

Bebras is a fun and engaging computational thinking challenge for students in Years 3 to 12. It is an international challenge that involves over 2.9 million students from 60 countries.  

Coding skills are not required to complete the Bebras Challenge. The main round of the challenge is held in Term 1 over several weeks. Students can participate individually or in teams of up to four. To celebrate international Bebras week, a follow-up event will be held in Term 4.

Lithuanian for beaver, Bebras was the name chosen by the founder of the challenge, Professor Valentina Dagiene from the University of Vilnius, in honour of the animal’s collaborative nature and strong work ethic. 

Students competed in teams to figure out a series of puzzles together.

Thank you and congratulations to Maryam Mohamed Hazzan (7A), Hadia Khan (8A), Aishani Mukherjee (8A), Hiba Qaiser (8A), Angela Tran (8A), Asma Mohamed Hazzan (10E), Rufaida Khaled(10C) and Aaliya Memon (10E) for their participation.

School Production – Alice in Wonderland

As Year 12 students, this year’s school production of Alice in Wonderland feels especially meaningful to us. Having been involved in school productions since our early years of high school, we’ve seen firsthand how they become so much more than an extracurricular activity. Over time, being part of the production has helped us grow in confidence, develop new skills, and find a strong sense of belonging within the school community.

Productions have consistently encouraged us to step outside our comfort zones — whether that’s performing on stage, collaborating with a wide range of students, or taking on leadership and behind‑the‑scenes responsibilities. They’ve also been the place where some of our strongest friendships have formed, not just within our year level but across the entire school. There’s something truly special about the way productions bring people together. Working towards a shared goal creates connections that last well beyond the final curtain call.

This year, one of the most rewarding aspects has been watching new students join the production and gradually find their place. It’s a powerful reminder of our own early experiences and how quickly a group of unfamiliar faces can become a supportive and encouraging community. The production space is one where everyone is valued, encouraged to express themselves, and able to contribute in their own unique way — which makes the process both welcoming and enjoyable for all involved.

As we move closer to our performances in August, Alice in Wonderland feels like the perfect story to capture this experience: imaginative, unpredictable and full of personality. We hope audiences not only enjoy the show, but also catch a glimpse of the friendships, creativity and personal growth that happen behind the scenes. Most of all, we hope future students are inspired to take that first step and get involved in a school production — it’s an experience that truly shapes your time at school.

Vivian Ho, Monique Calabrese and Alana Roolker

Year 10 21st Century Science Spaghetti Bridge Engineering Challenge

Over the past few weeks, our 21st Century Science elective students have been using the Design Thinking process to construct and test a bridge with commercially available No. 4 spaghetti and glue as the sole raw materials. Using specific measurement criteria, they determined which unique design carried the maximum peak load during strength tests with hanging masses.  

Photographs of the test activities that were completed during this engineering challenge are included.

STEAM Leadership

In Term 1, thanks to GTAC, students were fortunate to participate in a unique scientific experience, the opportunity to test and try out a Scanning Electron Microscope (or SEM). An SEM is an advanced form of microscope that uses a highly focused beam of electrons to create detailed images of a sample’s surface. With an incredibly large magnification (up to 10,000 times!), it reveals fine surface features, texture, and composition that can’t be observed using a standard light microscope.

Over the course of two weeks, students were able to come in at lunch time to engage in a hands-on experience. Using the unique capabilities of the SEM, we were able to examine a variety of samples and prepared slides. This practical experience allowed them to explore microscopic details in a way that extends far beyond the standard classroom light microscope that is used in science and biological practicals. Ultimately, this special experience that our school was gifted with offered students a distinctive yet valuable glance into just one of the tools that can be used in modern-day scientific research.

Merleen Subin

STEAM Captain

Scanning Electron Microscope

During early March, our Science department was able to showcase a desktop Scanning Electron Microscope, borrowed from GTAC (the Gene Technology Access Centre), to observe objects at a nanoscale, or at a very tiny level, where 1 nanometre is equivalent to 10-9m. 

Our 21st Century Science students prepared and observed a variety of samples using this sophisticated technology! Samples observed included a beetle head and legs; butterfly/moth wings; a slice of Blu Tack; lizard skin; ants, feathers, dried gum nuts from trees, flower petals, evaporated liquids, tiny circuit boards found in electronic devices and various salt crystals. 

Some reflections from the students using the SEM were captured:

“I used to think that we weren’t able to see tiny things. Now I think that we can get true images of tiny things that are detailed” Leena

“Previously, my thoughts on microscopes were limited, but now I have expanded my knowledge and think that there are different types of microscopes showing different aspects of a sample” Anvita

“I used to think that objects that were so small didn’t have any interesting features, but now after looking at the beautiful patterns, I was amazed by how complex, yet equal (symmetrical) patterns were on small objects” Jeannette

Carolyn Drenen

Learning Area Leader – Science; STEAM Co-ordinator; Teacher of Chemistry, Science and Mathematics

Year 12 VCE VM Valentine’s Day Stall

Our Year 12 VCE VM students ran their very first stall on Valentine’s Day. The stall featured an assortment of lollies, cupcakes, and other delicious treats, drawing in plenty of eager customers.

Adding to the excitement, students also ran a raffle. Congratulations to Ms Bedohazy, our lucky winner!

The Valentine’s Day celebrations didn’t stop there, with our Year 12s surprising everyone by decorating the Year 12 locker bay, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere for the day.

Be sure to keep an eye on Compass for many more fun lunchtime events coming next term!

Mrs Clark

Year 12 Coordinator

Year 12 VCE VM Students Step Up to Support Their Community

This term our Year 12 VCE VM students have been encouraged to think about meaningful ways they can give back to their local community. When Nessryn, our school nurse, asked if students would be interested in making sandwiches for our students, the response was overwhelmingly positive. 

The initiative supports Eat Up Australia, the only Australian charity providing free lunches to school children on a national scale. According to their website, “Children frequently arrive at school without the food they need to fuel their growing bodies and brains. Missing out on lunch has a big impact on children, with hunger causing fatigue and poor concentration. This commonly leads to learning difficulties and behavioural problems in school, with disadvantaged children falling further behind their peers.”

With the help of partners and dedicated volunteers, Eat Up makes and delivers over 40,000 lunches each week to schools across the country, ensuring vulnerable children have access to the food they need to learn and thrive.

Well done to 12B VCE VM students, who rolled up their sleeves and got to work making sandwiches and filling our freezers with cheese toasties for those who need them most. Their efforts are a fantastic example of community spirit in action.

Mrs Clark
Year 12 VCE VM Personal Development Teacher 

11 WRS Grand Prix

On Thursday 5th March, the Year 11 VCE VM class attended an excursion at the Grand Prix. Prior to the excursion, we investigated the range of occupations involved in the huge event at Albert Park. It was exciting to see it in action and gain work-related advice by interviewing people working there. The cars were even faster and louder than we expected! This was a highlight, as well as seeing students from other schools and the general public so engaged in the practice races and brand promotion pop-ups. It was fun to enjoy this new experience with our peers and teachers, and we enhanced our communication, teamwork and time management skills. 

Mariam E, Hazel, Laila, Sila and Zahra (11VM2)

Y11 WRS Guest Speaker

In Year 11 VCE-VM Work Related Skills, we have been having guest speakers from different industries visit PVGC to hold sessions in the auditorium. These sessions help us learn about different industries, career advice and allow us to ask questions of the presenters. 

So far this term, we have heard from 3 guest speakers. The first was Jackie and Jaxon from Holstep Health, who presented on community service. Next, we had Hinda Ismail, who runs her own events and decorations business. Last week, we were visited by Nawel, who owns her own gym. 

From the sessions, we have learnt about lots of different pathways and career journeys, the effort and resilience needed in employment, and have also been motivated to stay focused on our career journeys. 

We look forward to hearing from more speakers in Term 2.

Y11 VCE-VM Students

PVGC Year 12 Iftar Night

On March 4, our Year 12 students were invited to take part in a special Iftar Night at PVGC, sharing  this meaningful occasion with staff they had warmly invited along. 

It was a truly a wonderful evening bringing together the Class of 2026 in a spirit of community,  kindness and unity. 

The night provided an opportunity  to connect, reflect and celebrate  together, with these values shining  brightly throughout the event. A special thank you to Ms Rodda,  Mr Faltes, Mr Nichols and Ms Gowers for the meticulous planning and making the event come together.  

Mrs Clark

Year 12 Coordinator 

Disability Inclusion at Pascoe Vale Girls College

Inclusive schools support stronger learning, engagement and wellbeing for all students. The Department of Education’s Disability Inclusion initiative has now replaced the previous Program for Students with Disabilities (PSD), helping us better understand and respond to each student’s needs.

The updated model provides increased funding to support students with disability and diverse learning needs, including students with autism and those with learning difficulties. This funding may be used for staff training, specialist advice, additional staffing, and learning resources.

The Disability Inclusion Profile helps identify each student’s strengths, needs, and any adjustments required for success at school. Some families may be invited to attend a Profile meeting. If this is recommended for your child, we will contact you with further information. Meetings involve school staff who know your child, along with an independent facilitator, and families are fully supported throughout the process.

We continue to create Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students with additional learning needs, those living in Out of Home Care and Koorie students. 

For more information, or to discuss this further, please contact our Wellbeing and Inclusion Leading Teachers – Jack Nichols and Grace Gowers.

Okukan Dojo 

Pascoe Vale Panthers