The Times – Term 2, Issue 2, 2025

Ms Kay Peddle – Principal

As Term 2 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the commitment and achievements of our students, staff, and families. It has been a term marked by growth, learning, and resilience across all areas of school life. Students and staff have been involved in a wide range of events and activities, and once again we have enjoyed and celebrated many successes and school events. The Year 12 Formal was a memorable celebration for our senior students. It was a wonderful evening filled with joy, and a strong sense of connection as students marked a significant milestone in their final year of schooling. The event was a credit to the maturity and spirit of the Year 12 cohort, and we thank Senior School for making the night so successful.

Our students have continued to demonstrate their determination in both academic and co-curricular pursuits, with many achieving successes and contributing positively to the school community. From subject-based learning to camps, excursions, interschool sport, and leadership initiatives, the breadth of engagement has been impressive. The Japanese Sister School exchange to Toyota Higashi Senior High was an obvious highlight. 

It has been encouraging to see so many students take responsibility for their learning through consistent revision, seeking feedback, and showing determination throughout the exam period for Years 10 and 11.  The outstanding success of the VCE Vocational Major program at the college has been evident with students developing personal and work based skills across a range of projects and events. 

Staff have worked diligently to provide high-quality learning experiences and targeted support, while also encouraging student voice, wellbeing and independence. The implementation of key improvement strategies across curriculum, engagement, and inclusion continues to strengthen outcomes for all learners. 

In the second half of 2024, we introduced Classroom Mastery routines across the school to maximise learning in every classroom. This includes a common and consistent approach to entering and exiting the classroom, gaining students’ attention and asking questions. An outline of the Classroom Mastery routines is included in the newsletter. This initiative has had a positive impact on the learning environment creating safe, calm classrooms where students can thrive.

We have now received the results from the 2025 Attitudes to School Survey, which students completed earlier this term. We are thrilled with the preliminary data and want to share the highlights with the school community. There have been increases in positive endorsement from students in all factors with their ‘sense of connectedness’ showing the biggest increase. Please refer to the infographics included in the newsletter for more highlights.

Thank you to our families for your ongoing support and partnership. Together, we create the environment that enables our young people to thrive. Regular attendance is essential for success. Missing one day every fortnight adds up to four weeks per year. Attending school every day means experiencing what counts – the learning, friendships, fun and opportunities that can shape your future.

We hope to see families and friends at a performance of Haunting of the Halls, the college production for 2025.  The students have been working hard and it would be great for them to have the support from our school community. Show dates are Thursday and Friday 21st and 22nd of August at 7pm and Saturday 23rd at 2pm.

We wish everyone a safe and restful break and look forward to a productive and energised start to Term 3.

9B,9C,9D City Experience Highlights

We enjoyed the City Experience program. We all completed different trails to become familiar with the city of Melbourne. Our top highlights were: going to the Police Museum to take part in a Forensic activity-we saw a realistic ‘dead’ body and were able to act like detectives to solve the case. We visited the ‘Food Glorious Food’ and we explored different foods and saw the elegant high tea café in Royal Arcade. We visited the State Library which was  amazing with its beautiful domed ceiling. Lots of students enjoyed this site as we could go up to the fourth floor balcony and look down into the reading room and see the whole library. There was also an area where you could see outfits and paintings and listen to the guides.  

Another fun and popular trail was going to the Victoria Market where we bought matching hats, Sonny Angels and crystal figurines. The Culture Vulture trail was fun as we got to explore the different galleries, popular attractions including the water wall at the NGV. We also went on the Fashion Finder trail and looked at different designer brands. Going on the train gave us lots of freedom and independence as we travelled with our friends and learnt how to read a timetable and board trains. These were our favourite highlights of the City Experience Program.

Middle School Leaders/ SRC Eid Celebration

On 5th June 2025, the Middle School Student Representative Council (SRC) held the first of two planned fundraisers to support student-led projects and improvements within our school community.

The event took place in the Quad, where Middle School and SRC leaders set up a vibrant and welcoming stall. The fundraiser aimed to both raise money and bring the school community together in a fun, positive way.

We sold a variety of items, including Henna and rooh afza (rose syrup drink). Students from across the School came by to support the fundraiser, with many enjoying a treat, getting their henna done or making a donation.

This was the first of two fundraisers planned by the Middle School and SRC team, and it was a great success. All funds raised will go toward a charity. A big thank-you to everyone in the Middle School who participated, donated, and helped make this event such a success. We can’t wait to see you at our next one!

The GAT

YEAR 12 Movie Night

Year 12 PJ Day

Year 12 Formal

Year 10 Kangan Institute Excursion

VCE VM Recognition Assembly

Senior School Celebration Assembly

Yr 12 100% Attendance

Vaidehiben Desai, Aya Mohamad, Aneesa Taleb, Asmita Chowdhury, Hannah John, Tanisha Lee, Carol Dsouza, Isra Mohamad, Marlize Aitu, Ellie Fisher, Evana Joshy, Katrina Ngo, Rahimah Ali, Lauren Fisher, Erva Kalyoncu, Pavani Assalaratchy, Nayomi Goonaratne, Elise Keles-Huseyin

Yr 11 100% Attendance

Sedra Abou-Eid, Chennie Palasol, Yaman Jabbour, Archidha Rahul Varma

Yr 10 100% Attendance

Ruby Carmichael, Simona Fisahaye, Kristy Ngo, Jessica Truong, Zuhoor Alhamali, Nitya Aryal, Ishmal Asif, Ayesha Asim, Marwa Eissa, Hooria Kashif, Aamna Memon, Mallak Taleb

Year 12 Aspiration Award

Elanur Sahiner, Fatima Moustafa, Rahma Khan, Ureba Memon, Elise Keles-Huseyin, Rayan Baltaji, Hannah John, Nur Anisah Nor Ashraf, Maggie Van Goozen, Eman Shah, Yasmien Haidar, Eesha Fatima, Haania Mubeen, Nayomi Goonaratne, Rayanne El Hassan, Eleesa Rose Joji, Sama Osama Alhasani

Yr 11 Aspiration Award

Zamzam Taleb, Zahra Amiri, Alana Roolker, Esther Peri, Dilni Jothiratnage, An-Nhein Le, Maimoona Aiyaz, Bibi Zainab Khan, Hosanna Crute, Lucy Humphries, Thu (Vivian) Ho, Ayah Ahmad, Syeda Fatima

Yr 10 Aspiration Award

Alice Curran, Mikaela Reyes, Sahra Mohamud, Ishmal Asif, Lina Hemaya, Kristy Ngo, Charlotte Hays, Khadija Syed, Stephanie Amirsonis, Maria Fatima, Aamna Memon, Farah Mustapha, , Fatimah Elbashir

Yr 12 Improvement Award

Samor El Turkmani, Sara Gok

Yr 11 Improvement Award

Adeebah Badres, Leyya Ozdamar, Gonul Filiz, Rumaysa Khaled, Zaynab Nur

Yr 10 Improvement Award

Tehreem Shakeel, Malik Azmat, Samira Abdullatif, Nisa Nur Ozkan, Yasamin Dawoodzai, Jayda Faraj, Alaa Almassri

Leadership Incursion with Glenroy College

On Tuesday 27th May, student leaders from Glenroy College and Pascoe Vale Girls College came together for an afternoon of connection as well as student leadership development. Held at the PVGC campus, this workshop provided an opportunity to create future student leadership ideas at both the schools.

Student leadership at PVGC has changed drastically over the last five years, all thanks to Ms Ferguson’s endless devotion, hard work and creativity. We’ve gone from offering less than 15 roles in leadership to more than 80 across sixteen teams, in so many different fields that appeal to so many types of people. Not many schools offer such variety, so this workshop was an incredible opportunity to share our development with Glenroy College so that they too can thrive in Student Leadership.

After arriving at PVGC, Glenroy College leaders were introduced to PVGC leaders, who shared what they’ve been working on as part of their leadership role this year, and in previous years. We later were paired up with a student to show them around the school, so they could experience first-hand some of the activities that the leaders at PVGC conduct, such as Friendship Day by the Alberti and Cowan Leaders, as well as the Token Shop. The workshop finished with the leaders creating their own dream student leadership team, with ideas that are yet to be used in the future. 

The workshop not only strengthened inter-school connections, but also fostered future development for the future student leadership at PVGC and Glenroy College. Thank you to Ms Ferguson for organising this event, and the Glenroy College leadership team for taking the time to come down. With events like these, the future of student leadership at both schools is looking brighter than ever!!

Merleen Subin, Year 10 Art Club Captain

Friendship Day Returns to PVGC

On May 27, Alberti and Cowan House Leaders teamed up once again to bring back the much loved Friendship Day for Term 2. This term, the event was extra special with a visit from the leadership team at Glenroy College, who came to see firsthand how PVGC fosters community and connection. 

The lunchtime event was a hit, featuring a photo booth, friendship themed stickers, friendship bracelets, heart-shaped pins for sale, and a free card-making station. The event not only strengthened bonds within the PVGC community but also showcased the collaborative efforts of our student leaders.

With such a successful event, we’re already looking forward to what Term 3 has in store. Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect and celebrate together!

Alberti and Cowan Leaders

Melba Crown Making Event      

It felt like negative 12 degrees outside, but inside C15, queens were being made and the heater was on. Melba House hosted a crown making event on the 3rd of June in honour of the King’s Birthday Long Weekend. Creative designs from the queens of Pascoe Vale Girls College were made and friendships were strengthened.

WAKE Volleyball Round Robin    

On Monday, 2 June, the Wake House captains hosted a lively volleyball event in the gym, bringing together middle school and senior school students for a fun and energetic match. The enthusiasm and passion for the game was shown through the players’ every serve and spike. Players and the spectators embraced the competitive, yet friendly, atmosphere. It was a fantastic display of teamwork and sportswomenship, creating a positive and engaging environment that truly reflected the spirit of Wake House. 

Ishmal Asif 10D

St. John’s Ambulance

As Term 2 progresses, members of our St John Ambulance program have been actively engaged in learning and practicing their first aid skills. It has been wonderful to see our senior members, Lauren, Aminah, and Chiara, taking the lead in teaching some of the lessons.

This term, we have covered important topics such as fainting, poisoning, chest pain, diabetic emergencies, and injuries to the head, chest, abdomen, and pelvis, as well as seizures. Congratulations to all the members for achieving their preliminary first aid certificates!

Special recognition goes to Aminah Alan, who will represent our division in this year’s State Youth Challenge on July 5th. With the support of Lauren Fisher, Aminah has dedicated many hours to training and preparing for this event. It has been a privilege to observe her progress as she takes feedback, learns, and grows.

Aminah has proficiently managed, triaged, and treated multiple patients independently under challenging circumstances, navigating patient deterioration, interactions with difficult bystanders, loud environments, and a variety of injuries. Throughout these experiences, she has consistently demonstrated the ability to articulate a systematic approach to patient assessment.

Nessryn Tabiaat

KPMG Industry Insights Day – A Window into the Corporate World

This term, PVGC students stepped into the professional world of KPMG Australia for an unforgettable Industry Insights Day.

They toured the impressive KPMG offices, explored early-career and graduate pathways, and sat in small group discussions with KPMG staff who shared real-world career advice—covering everything from building resilience and handling setbacks to preparing for job applications.

Key Takeaways:
✔️ An inside look at what it’s like to work in a global firm like KPMG
✔️ The importance of communication, accountability, and teamwork in the corporate world
✔️ Career flexibility—how a variety of degrees and backgrounds can lead to unexpected roles in consulting, data, technology, and business services
✔️ How to build confidence when networking and making professional connections
✔️ Application and resume tips straight from KPMG recruiters
✔️ Handling pressure, dealing with setbacks, and the importance of perseverance in competitive industries

A standout message: Success is rarely a straight line. Flexibility, curiosity, and personal growth are essential for navigating an evolving career landscape.

A huge thank you to Ourschool and KPMG Australia for making this opportunity possible—and for inspiring our future leaders with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice.

Alumni Session: Ash Ozdemir Inspires Future Scientists

& Health Professionals

We were delighted to welcome back Ash Ozdemir (Class of 2019), now studying Speech Pathology (Honours), who ran two engaging and practical sessions with our students.

• Lunchtime Career Conversation (STEM & Allied Health Focus)
  Ash spoke with warmth and honesty about her study and career journey—from her pathway into Speech Pathology to the realities of university life, handling exam pressure, and keeping options open.
• In-Class Session: Year 10 ‘Science of Plastics’
  Ash also joined the Year 10 Science class, sharing how her love of science led to health and allied health pathways—and why keeping doors open can lead to unexpected and fulfilling careers.

Key Takeaways:
✔️ The exciting world of Speech Pathology
✔️ Exam preparation tips that actually work
✔️ What university life is really like
✔️ The flexibility of a Bachelor of Science for students who love science but aren’t sure of a career yet
✔️ Why attending Open Days is essential to ‘taste-test’ future study options

Alumni Session: Maryam’s Powerful Reflections on Culture, Boundaries & Ambition

We also welcomed back Maryam, a current PhD candidate in Audiology, who ran two thought-provoking and impactful sessions.

• Lunchtime Career Conversation (STEM & Life Balance Focus)
  Maryam’s conversation went deeper than career talk—she openly discussed balancing cultural expectations with personal ambition, setting boundaries, and giving students permission to choose their own path while still respecting family and tradition.
• In-Class Session: Specialist Maths
  Maryam also spoke with the Specialist Maths class, sharing her own struggles (and eventual triumph) with the subject, and how those maths skills now unexpectedly play a role in her Audiology research. Her story reminded students that struggle is part of success not a sign to give up.

Key Takeaways:
✔️ Boundaries are necessary—not rejection
✔️ You can honour culture while making your own choices
✔️ It’s okay to say “no” and protect your time and energy
✔️ Self-reflection matters—challenge “it is what it is” thinking

Her honesty created space for real dialogue—one students said felt refreshing, relatable, and empowering.

Year 10 Cooking for a Crowd and Glorious Food

What a fun filled semester Year 10 Cooking for a Crowd and Food Glorious Food students have had. They have been busy creating decorative cupcakes, producing a picnic grazing box for a client and completing a food styling task copying the magazine cover, amongst a myriad of other interesting topics. We hope Year 10 Food students have enjoyed their semester learning about nutrition, design briefs, Dietary Models, food preservation and food science and above all have had fun. We wish them success in their semester two studies.

Great work Year 10’s.

Ms Barbazza

Arcimboldo and Soupe Opera inspired drawings by 8FOTA

Inspired by Arcimboldo and Soupe Opera, students from 8FOTA drew pictures of fruits and vegetables while learning about food groups

Year 8 PE Volleyball 

During Term 2, Year 8 students participated in placed teams in recognition of their efforts and improvement over the term.

The round robin was the culmination of a volleyball program that began in Term 1, with students developing and refining their volleyball skills across both terms. The competition brought students together from different classes, creating mixed teams across two class groups, encouraging teamwork, new friendships, and positive peer interaction.

💡 Did you know?

We offer FREE after-school volleyball coaching every Friday from 3:15–5:00pm in the Gym!

All PVGC students, regardless of skill level, are welcome. The program is run by Coach Jack from the Melbourne Volleyball Academy, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to improve your skills, stay active, and learn how to be a team player.

If you’re interested or have any questions, feel free to speak to any of the PE staff. See you on the court!

Badminton Year 8-10

Year 7, 9-10 Soccer

Term 2 Sports 2025

Japan Trip 2025

Earlier this term, 15 students from Years 11 & 12, alongside Ms Gowers, Ms Leoni and Mr Freeman, embarked on an unforgettable cultural and educational journey to Japan, visiting both Tokyo and Kyoto, and spending time with host families and attending our sister school in Toyota.

The trip began in the bustling capital, where students explored historical sites, sampled authentic Japanese cuisine, and experienced the fast-paced energy of Tokyo. Our students truly put the phrase ‘shop ‘til you drop’ to the test!

A highlight of the trip was our time in Toyota, where students visited our sister school. We participated in classes, shared cultural presentations, and spent time with host families, gaining insight into everyday life in Japan and forming lasting friendships.

We then travelled to Kyoto, where we immersed ourselves in Japan’s rich traditions and history. From walking through the famous torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha to experiencing a traditional tea ceremony, the students gained a deeper appreciation of Japan’s unique cultural heritage.

While the sights were unforgettable, this experience offered valuable opportunities personal growth and meaningful cultural exchange. We are incredibly proud of the way our students represented Pascoe Vale Girls College with curiosity, respect and maturity. We look forward to welcoming members of Toyota Higashi High School as visitors in 2026.

Dante Alighieri Poetry Competition

When we got off the tram in the city, we walked to the University of Melbourne, where we were greeted by an usher. We were taken to a large auditorium with other participating schools. Our students were divided into groups and recited their poem to a judge, 1-on-1. We met back at approximately 11:30 a.m. We took a class photo near the entrance of the University.

Once we finished the poetry competition we headed to Lygon street- Little Italy. There we split into smaller groups and went to find some authentic Italian pizza! We explored a few restaurants before finally deciding to go to Café Corretto. We were immediately drawn to the café because of its striking decor, most surprisingly the Ferrari car hanging from the roof. After enjoying the delicious pizza, our group went on a search for Brunetti. As soon as we entered we were greeted by the sweet aroma of Italian pastries. 

We had so much fun on our day out. Thank you Ms. Santomartino and Ms. Darmos

Chiara, Aminah, Bedour, Ayesha, Hafssa, and Salwa

Telescope Nights RESUME at PVGC!     

After a slightly longer break than usual, our Telescopes in Schools group Rephract has begun once more.

Keep an eye out for the notification of our after school sessions from 6:00 – 8:00pm via Compass or join our WhatsApp community group https://chat.whatsapp.com/IuzKp5aCRVz9NPIgMnobyP

We meet every two weeks on a Tuesday evening. Parents, friends, community members and Alumni who are interested in astronomy or astrophysics are more than welcome to attend. If you are a current student, please collect a permission form from Miss Ankers, Ms Drenen or Ms Fernando (Laboratory Technician).

RMIT Incursion ‘Future STEM Leaders’

During May 30th, selected Yr. 9 students finished their training in the ‘Future STEM Leaders’ Program, by successfully delivering a series of technology-based Science Workshops in the Michaeal Harris Theatre to Grade 3 and 4 students of Pascoe Vale North Primary School (in the morning) and Westbreen Primary School (in the afternoon). They were guided by industry experts and RMIT Women in STEM Ambassadors, who are current RMIT University students studying a variety of disciplines across STEM.

Aims of this program include:
• Breakdown of stereotypes in STEM with visible role models
• Engaging with mentors from tertiary education and industry
• Inspiring STEM participation in high school and beyond
• Supporting the empowerment, confidence and knowledge for student aspirations in STEM
• Boosting positive STEM culture among student groups and the school community

Photographs taken during this program are featured.

Carolyn Drenen

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

GTAC Excursion ‘Analysing DNA Bar Codes to Identify and Discover Species’

On Wednesday 4th June, our Year 9A Science students attended the Gene Technology Access Centre in Parkville to participate in a series of activities to contribute to a real research project. Students used DNA technologies, including PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and gel electrophoresis, in combination with bioinformatics programs to generate DNA barcodes for animal or plant tissues of environmental or commercial interest. The DNA extracted samples generated by their team were sent to the Australian Genome Research Facility (AGRF) for sequencing. Analysis of their DNA barcodes will continue at a virtual event to be held later in Term 2.

Many thanks to Ms. Petrocchi who took time out of her regular classes to accompany myself and the students on this excursion.

Photographs of the activities that were completed during the excursion are featured.

Carolyn Drenen

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

RMIT STEAM Day

On Friday June 27th, selected Year 9 students participated in a STEAM Day at Melbourne’s RMIT Campus, featuring ‘hands-on’ learning and industry engagement.

This day was designed to give our students a better understanding of STEAM, expose the students to possible future course and career options and develop skills to help them transition to future tertiary study. 

Photographs taken during this excursion are featured.

Carolyn Drenen

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

VCE VM Mentor Program

Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students have been mentoring their Year 11 peers this semester, assisting with the organisation of fundraising events. The final mentoring session for the term occurred on Monday, June 23. During this session, Year 12 students partnered with Year 11 students, sharing valuable insights on securing Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) placements. The session concluded with a morning tea, fostering community and collaboration among the students.

Mrs Clark & Mr Faltes

Merri-bek North Education Plan: Leadership Skills Day at RMIT

On Tuesday, June 24, Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students participated in a Leadership Day at RMIT University, joining peers from Glenroy College, John Fawkner College, and Coburg High School. This event is part of the Merri-bek North Education Plan, a decade-long initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and fostering collaboration among local schools 

The day featured an inspiring keynote by former AFLW star Moana Hope, who shared her journey and insights on resilience and leadership. Students also engaged in interactive workshops led by industry leaders, including Joseph Abboud (RUMI), Liliana Sanelli (Perfect Events Group), Marzivah Razi (ASRC), Nicholas Ilton (ONset Arts), and Harley Hamdani (Melbourne Victory). The event concluded with a collaborative leadership activity, providing students with valuable skills and perspectives to enhance their leadership potential.

Well done to the Year 12 VCE VM students for participating. Their behaviour and engagement reflected the school’s values. As they approach the final semester of VCE VM, we hope the presenters’ personal stories inspired students to continue to persevere and strive for excellence.

Mrs Clark, Mr Faltes, Mr Nichols and Ms Zikou

Year 12 VCE VM Structured Workplace Learning

On May 19–20, Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students participated in the Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) Program, stepping out of the classroom and into real world industries.

This initiative allowed students to gain hands on experience in fields directly related to their VET courses, enhancing their employability skills and providing a practical understanding of their chosen industries.

Students were placed in a variety of sectors, including hospitality, retail, and trades, where they applied their classroom learning in authentic settings. These placements not only enriched their educational experience but also prepared them for the workforce as they approach the completion of their secondary education. 

Congratulations to our Year 12 VCE VM students for representing PVGC, the feedback from employers was overwhelmingly positive. 

Mrs Clark and Mr Faltes

Trade and Tech Fit Expo

On June 3, Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students, along with a select group of Year 10 students, attended the Trade & Tech Fit Career Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This hands-on event allowed students to engage in activities such as video game design, bricklaying, welding, flying planes, programming robots, safety testing equipment, using power tools, and learning to paint. The expo aimed to broaden students’ understanding of career options available to women and gender-diverse individuals in various industries. 

This experience provided students with valuable insights into non-traditional career pathways and encouraged them to consider diverse opportunities in the trades and technology sectors.

Mrs Clark, Mr Faltes and Ms Doyle

Year 11B  VCE  VM  Literacy

This term students in VCE VM Unit 1 Literacy have been investigating cyber safety. As part of their assessment they made games to teach younger students about safe online behaviours. 8A English students had the opportunity to play the games and learn from their experience. They then wrote cards to the students in Year 11 commenting on how much fun they had testing out their games. Here are a few pics of the Year 8 students in action. 

Ms Doomernik

Wellbeing and Inclusion Term 2 Wrap Up

• Breakfast Club has been more popular than ever this year. Last week, we even had to employ two new baristas. Thank you to Anthony Cianflone MP and Jeff Thomas for their help. Jeff and the Glenroy Lions Club made a generous donation so we can continue to fuel students each Friday.

• We were lucky enough to be gifted tickets from the Carlton Football Club to their game against North Melbourne. Our students had a great time and hopefully they’re back on the winners’ board soon!

• June is Pride Month 🌈 We are proud to be an inclusive school. Everyone is welcome at PVGC. IDAHOBIT was also recognised across Thursday 15th, Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th May with a lecture by Mr Madden on ancient queer history, fairy floss, friendship bracelets and poster making.
  
• Staff got around our second dress-up day for the year and sported double, even triple denim. Mr John was hard to beat for best dressed.
  

• Wellbeing and learning go hand in hand. That’s why we’re committed to creating inclusive classrooms where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. Through our focus on consistent Classroom Mastery routines, we’re building strong foundations for success. Behind the scenes, teachers are working hard to ensure every student can access the curriculum through differentiated learning. The Disability Inclusion model is being implemented to ensure all students have the opportunity to thrive.