It has certainly been a busy start to the term. On Monday we officially farewelled our Year 12 students at their Valete Ceremony. It was wonderful to see so many families in attendance to support the students. Our ceremony allowed us to acknowledge the outstanding achievements and contributions of a number of students, as well as congratulate the recipients of our subject awards and the College’s Major Leadership Awards.
The Year 12 VCAA Examinations commence next week, and we wish the students the very best over the coming weeks. Our Year 12 VCE VM students have already commenced apprenticeships, are starting full-time work or pursuing further tertiary study opportunities.
Yesterday our current Year 11 leaders were officially inducted into their Prefect roles for 2027 at our College Assembly. Our 2026 College Captain, Jacob Greco, also handed over the College flag to our incoming 2027 College Captain, Shevan Fernando. We look forward to the 2027 Prefect Team leading our College community. We also had the privilege of welcoming back Victorian Supreme Court Judge, Adrian Finanzio (Class of 1989), to the Assembly to receive the Distinguished Old Paradian Award. Adrian spoke to the College community about his time at Parade, the life lessons he learnt, and what an education at Parade meant to him and his family. He shared his educational journey, and his message was so valuable and relatable to all our students.
We gathered in Greening Auditorium with our talented students and their families for our Annual Art & Technology Exhibition. What a wonderful expression of our students' creative, methodical, and thought-provoking contributions! I was truly amazed at the work our students from all Year Levels produced and it was quite difficult to choose just one piece for the Principal’s Award. This year, Year 12 student, Anthony Le, was the recipient of this award for his Visual Communication & Design Folio, Picture Story Book, and Plushie. An extraordinary amount of work and detail went into this project, like so many other students. I would like to acknowledge our staff who continue to work with our students to express themselves through Art and Technology, and our Learning Area Leaders – Ms Sasha Tukavkin, and Mr Chris Sedgman – for their time and effort into bringing this Exhibition to life.
We recently hosted our Senior Sports Awards evening. It was a great occasion where students, with their families, were recognised for their various sporting achievements while representing the College. I was amazed at the accomplishments of our students in competing against other schools in team and individual sports. A special thank you to Shaun Bowie, Dean of High Performance, and all our sports coaches for working with our students throughout the year.
Following the recent Year 12 Valete evening, we once again congratulate our Year 12 students on reaching this significant milestone in their educational journey. While their formal time at the College has now concluded, their VCE examination period is well underway, with students continuing to work towards the final assessments that will complete their secondary schooling.
We recognise that this remains an intensive period for students and their families. As examinations continue, families can support students by encouraging them to focus their efforts on areas requiring the most attention, review feedback from previous assessments to identify areas for improvement and seek clarification from teachers where needed. While preparation for examinations is important, maintaining wellbeing throughout this period is equally vital. Students are encouraged to prioritise adequate sleep, minimise distractions during study sessions, continue regular physical activity, and maintain healthy eating habits.
To our graduating Class of 2026, we thank you for your contribution to our College community and wish you every success in your remaining examinations and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
Families are encouraged to refer to the Dean of Learning (Years 10-12) section of this newsletter for important information regarding the upcoming Unit 3 & 4 VCE and VET written examinations, including examination timelines, expectations during SWOTVAC, and student preparation requirements. This information is relevant to all Year 12 students and accelerated Year 11 students undertaking Unit 3 & 4 studies.
Students must check their individual exam timetables carefully and have received the VCAA Exam Navigator, outlining all exam rules and procedures. An electronic version is available here:
https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/sites/default/files/2026-07/2026-VCEExamsNavigator.pdf
A reminder about the Year 8, 9, 10, and 11 Semester 2 Examinations. These exams will commence in early November, with dates and details provided below. During the examination period, Year 10 and 11 students are not required to attend school other than for scheduled examinations. Year 8 and 9 students attend school as normal and will have regular timetabled classes when not sitting an exam. All students are encouraged to allocate time from now, not only for homework but also for revising for the semester examinations. Your child will receive revision materials to assist in their preparations closer to their exam date.
Examination Period:
Please contact the relevant Dean of Learning, Ms Nadia Bonvicino (Year 7-9), Mr James Fogarty (Year 10-12) or Ms Jessica Wogan where you have questions.
Students will receive their 2027 elective subject allocations in early November. Once received, families can purchase required materials through Campion Education, ensuring students have both digital and print resources ready for Term 1.
While we do our best to accommodate as many subject combinations as possible, building a College timetable is a complex process with unavoidable constraints. We recognise that families may hope for specific class groupings or teachers, and we appreciate these preferences reflect your care for your child's learning. As part of our commitment to a balanced process, it is not the College’s practice to accommodate individual requests for placement with specific teachers or peers.
Where families have questions regarding their child’s 2027 subjects, they should then contact the relevant Dean of Learning, Nadia Bonvicino (Year 7-9) or James Fogarty (Year 10-12) or Dean of VCE VM, Tegan Hopkins.
Please note that Friday 20 November is a student free day for Years 7 to 10 due to Semester Two report finalisation.
All students continuing at Parade in 2027 are required to attend school for Early Commencement classes. 2027 commencement classes begin on Monday 23 November until 4 December. It is important to note that teachers will not repeat lessons regarding this information when school returns in Term 1. As such, it is essential that all students attend. To support your child’s learning during the commencement period, your child’s teachers will provide the necessary course material. Families can access from Campion Education the first novel for English or Literature that may be required during commencement classes. Please note, not all year levels will require a novel during this time.
The first written exam for most Year 12 VCE students is English, scheduled for Tuesday 27 October. However, Oral Language and Music Performance exams start earlier, with some exams preceding English. Students must check their individual timetables carefully. Students have received the VCAA Exam Navigator, outlining all exam rules and procedures. An electronic version is available here:
https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/sites/default/files/2026-07/2026-VCEExamsNavigator.pdf
It is strongly recommended that all VCE students studying a Unit 3 & 4 subject and their parents carefully read the Exam Navigator.
During SWOT VAC (starting Monday 19 October), teachers will be available during regular class times until each subject’s exam date, and students are strongly encouraged to attend school during this period. As exam scores contribute significantly to final study marks, it’s essential that students aim to perform at their academic best. Accelerated Year 11 students will continue attending all scheduled Unit 4 classes until their respective exams.
Exam location
Exams are held in the Greening Auditorium and in adjoining rooms. Like the internal exams that students will remember from Years 8-11, they should line up in Westcourt Walk at least twenty minutes before the listed start time of each exam.
Transport
Throughout the exam period, students should have several plans for how to get to school. This may include travelling by public transport, having a family member provide a lift, or having rideshare apps ready as a last resort. It is important to allow extra travel time in case of unexpected delays. Students should aim to arrive at the College at least 30 minutes early to ensure a calm start to their exam.
Permitted materials
To each exam, students must bring photo identification (for example, their student ID card or driver licence). Students must not bring any unauthorised materials into the exam room, such as mobile phones or smart devices. These devices must be stored in their lockers. Students may bring one bottle of still water into the exam room, so long as it is in a transparent plastic bottle (all labels removed) and is no more than 1500mL. Further information about permitted materials is available in the VCE Exams Navigator, on the VCAA website: https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/sites/default/files/2026-07/2026-VCEExamsNavigator.pdf
Managing stress
It is perfectly normal for students to feel some level of stress during the VCAA exam period. Families can support their child by encouraging regular sleep, balanced meals, and short study breaks. If stress feels overwhelming or begins to affect wellbeing, students are encouraged to speak with their House Leader, Mr Fogarty, or the school counsellors.
The following websites provide some useful tips for managing stress and anxiety during the exam period:
The following information is from the VCAA regarding the Derived Examination Score process:
“Students who are ill or affected by other personal circumstances at the time of a VCE external assessment and whose result is unlikely to be a fair or accurate indication of their learning or achievement in the study may apply for a DES. If their application is approved, a DES will be calculated by the VCAA. The purpose of a DES is to ensure that a student’s final result for an external assessment reflects as accurately as possible the level of achievement that would be expected based on the learning and achievement the student has demonstrated in the study over the year. It is not designed to be used to compensate for learning or achievement that has not been possible because of long-term illness or other ongoing conditions that have been present over the year.
Students are eligible for a DES if they meet all of the following criteria:
A ‘personal trauma’ may include, but is not limited to, the death or serious illness of a family member, an accident involving a family member, or family break-up. A ‘serious intervening event’ may include, but is not limited to, an accident on the way to or at an examination, attendance at a funeral of a family member or other person of close relationship, or the required attendance at a court proceeding.”
Any student or family who believes they may be eligible for a DES should contact Mr Fogarty as soon as possible.
Year 8 to 11 Semester 2 examinations will take place between 16-19 November. Students are encouraged to begin revising now and continue preparing alongside their regular homework. Revision materials will be provided closer to the examination period. During the examination period, Years 8 and 9 attend school as normal and follow their regular timetable when not sitting an exam.
All current Year 7 to Year 9 students will receive their subject and elective allocations in early November. Year 9 students will also be notified of their ExCEL subjects. Due to the complex nature of timetable construction, subject changes are not possible. Students are encouraged to speak with me (Office MQ13) if they have any questions or concerns.
It was encouraging to receive many applications for acceleration into a Unit 1-2 VCE subject for Year 10 2027. The process allowed many productive conversations to occur. The outcome of these applications has been communicated to families.
All Year 10 Bundoora students will complete an accelerated Religious Education study in 2027. This is an excellent opportunity to delve into VCE studies and high achieving students may apply to continue this accelerated study in 2028.
This month we share with you the Elevate chapter of Habits of a Parade Learner. This chapter is particularly timely. It provides examples of how students may elevate their expectations so that they can achieve their personal best. Page 16 contrasts Homework and Study and provides some tips for studying as we approach examination season. We encourage all families to read the Handbook with their child. A copy can be found at Student Links on SIMON / PAM.
Developing a positive study routine allows all students to achieve their personal best. Below is a summary of which study practices are most effective, and which do not enhance learning.
Effective study techniques:
1. Retrieval practice
Using flashcards, completing a past exam paper and creating mind-maps from memory, are all examples of retrieval practice. Testing yourself and retrieving information from memory are effective ways to strengthen your recall in the future.
2. Spaced practice
Completing regular review for shorter periods of time is more effective than completing six hours of practice the day before a test. Create a study timetable where you review each subject frequently throughout the week.
3. Interleaving
Rather than doing large blocks of study for one unit or topic of work, it is better to switch between units/topics/skills at regular intervals. This does not mean multi-tasking! Interleaving allows your brain to make better neural pathways and connections and strengthens your understanding of each topic. Often, skills are interrelated, and this approach allows you to think laterally.
4. Food, sleep and exercise
Going outside and getting some fresh air can make you feel refreshed and help you to focus when you return to your studies. Having a regular sleep and rest schedule also helps your brain. Your brain recovers and lays down new neural pathways when you sleep. Rest offers you a chance to refresh and can include wider reading. Finally, eating nutritious and healthy foods (and breakfast!) can help improve your academic results.
Ineffective study techniques:
Distractions such as a mobile phone nearby or music can detract from your learning. Whilst some students may claim that music helps them study, scientific studies have shown the opposite. A study by Perham and Currie (2014) showed that students listening to music while studying answered fewer questions correctly compared to their peers who studied in silence. Similarly, a study by Ward et al. (2017) illustrated that the further your mobile phone is from you while you study, the better you will perform on your test.
We encourage all families to discuss this with their children and help them to make positive study choices.
Families with children entering Year 9 in 2027 are advised that they will begin their first ExCEL Extended Learning Project (ELP 1) during the 2027 Early Commencement Program, commencing on Wednesday 25 November. As part of this learning experience, students will participate in an ExCEL Orientation Day on Wednesday 2 December. The day will involve supervised travel on public transport between the Bundoora and Preston Campuses and visits to several key sites involved with ExCEL across Melbourne’s CBD, helping students develop confidence and familiarity with locations that will support their project work.
Additional details will be shared with families closer to the event.
Over the recent weeks, our Year 12 students enjoyed a memorable and fitting conclusion to their formal classes, while also beginning the next chapter of their journey through a series of celebrations, presentations, reflections, and community events.
The Year 12 Farewell Assemblies provided students and staff with the opportunity to acknowledge the significant contribution of the Class of 2026 to their respective House or Campus communities. These gatherings offered a chance to reflect on the students’ journey through the College, celebrate their achievements and growth, and wish them every success as they prepare for their final examinations and future pathways.
As part of our commitment to student wellbeing and safety, Year 12 students participated in two important presentations designed to support them as they transition beyond school. John Maher delivered an engaging and thought-provoking Road Safety Presentation, encouraging students to consider the responsibilities that come with being drivers and passengers. Parade College continues to partner with John, with this year marking 17 years that he has addressed our graduating Year 12 students. His presentation remains a highly valued component of the College's Year 12 program. More information about John's work can be found at https://carmen.com.au/
Students also attended Sonya Karras' Party Safe Presentation, which focused on making informed decisions, looking after one another, and celebrating responsibly during the upcoming post-school life. Parade College has also enjoyed a strong partnership with Sonya over several years, with her presentations combining powerful stories with practical strategies and insights that help students make safe, informed, and responsible choices during this important stage of their lives.
Together, these presentations reinforced the importance of personal responsibility, wellbeing and safety as students prepare for life beyond the College.
One of the highlights was the student-led Farewell Assembly, organised and presented by members of the Year 12 Prefect team. The assembly reflected the spirit and humour of the cohort, featuring a range of light-hearted student awards that celebrated the friendships, personalities, and memorable moments of the Year 12 journey. The assembly concluded with the traditional Year 12 shirt signing, allowing students to share messages and memories with classmates and teachers.
The celebrations continued with the annual Funfields Excursion on Friday 16 October, providing students with a well-earned opportunity to relax and enjoy time together following a busy year of study and commitments.
The farewell celebrations concluded with the Valete Graduation Evening on Monday 19 October, where students, families and staff gathered to celebrate the achievements, growth, and resilience of the Class of 2026. The evening marked the formal conclusion of the students' secondary schooling and provided a fitting opportunity to recognise their many contributions to the College community.
We congratulate all Year 12 students on reaching this significant milestone and wish them every success in their upcoming examinations and/or future endeavours.
In a world where guys are often told to “toughen up” or hide their feelings, finding a place to talk honestly can be really hard. Which is why in 2014, a mental health charity known as ‘The Man Cave’ was established. This charity helps young men understand their emotions and build healthy relationships. It is not just a standard school program, it is a life-changing experience build on care, kindness, hospitality, and utmost privacy.
During my Year 9 Man Cave experience this week, I had David and Michael, who created an absolute elite environment for everyone to feel comfortable to engage and also keep the vibes stable with music and Michael’s home Samoan Islands culture of hyping up the room with immersive chants. Both David and Michael brought in some personal and deep stories that made us young men revisit the parked topic of ‘Boundaries.’
When visiting this topic, they created a soccer pitch diagram on the whiteboard of inbound (inside of the pitch) meant that the statement was ok, but the outbound (outside of the pitch) meant that the statement crossed the boundaries of the person, which showed us the right and wrong of when something is taken too far.
With this not being my first Man Cave, I would be proud in saying that this was the best one in terms of vibes, engagement, and the overall topics that are now implanted in my brain.
What makes these sessions work so well is the leaders. These facilitators are excellent role models who lead by example. For both Michael and David to talk about some stories that others would consider keeping to themselves was really hard and helped us as a class gain the courage to speak up. When leaders open up, the teenagers feel safe to do the same. In a time when many young people feel isolated online, The Man Cave brings them together. Boys realize they are not alone in their struggles, which creates a strong sense of friendship and support.
The Man Cave is a truly special organization. My words are no match for what they do in this world and the amount of situations they reduce happening in the first place.
What I have said today is just a small epigram of what they provide, and remember this one thing that all Man Cave facilitators mention, “WHAT HAPPENS IN THE CAVE, STAYS IN THE CAVE.” Always respect each others privacy and boundaries as discussed.
Through real connection and unconditional respect, they are building a brighter, healthier future for every young man.
During the same day, we also had a Year 9 Development Day, which highlighted the topics of banter, friendships, and values and how us young men should understand what is too far and what is applicable.
We had a counsellor with us to guide us through the boundaries and some real stories that show the example of what happens when you don’t think before you say.
With the help of the wonderful teachers and our helpful Dean, Miss Mazzitelli, we Year 9s had a day filled with learning and fun activities. The Development Day shows both the students and parents that this school cares about the mental health of students and what they are feeling.
Parade College continues to show its commitment to helping students grow not only academically, but also as individuals. By providing opportunities like Development Day, the College encourages students to build confidence, strengthen friendships and develop a better understanding of themselves and others. Days like these show that education goes beyond the classroom, teaching us important life lessons about respect, empathy, and the kind of people we want to become.
At the end of the day, Development Day reminded us that being ourselves also means respecting others. We learnt that having fun, building connections and expressing who we are should never come at the expense of someone else’s boundaries. Because at Parade College, it is not just about knowing who we are, but knowing when to respect where others draw the line.
Aeshan Fernando Year 9 T11
Wednesday 7 October opened our annual Art and Technology Exhibition- Purpose 2026. On the evening, we had over 350 pieces of student work on display, from family crests, lino prints, short films, guitars, folios, furniture and much more. We also introduced for 2026 a staff entry section that received some great reviews.
On the evening 3 awards were given, one for the best student work in the Technology Learning Area, one for the best student work in the Arts Learning Area and lastly the Principal’s choice award selected by our principal Mr Mark Aiello for the student work that he was most impressed by on the evening and that really captured the excellence that we strive for in all areas at the College.
Best in Technology was awarded to Zac Baini Year 9 student for his electric guitar, Matteo Sculli, Year 10 student won best in Arts and our Principal’s Award recipient was Anthony Le for his Year 12 VCD folio and children’s story book and plushie.
At the College Term 4 Assembly we announced the winner of the People's Choice Award. The People’s Choice award is based on public voting for all that attended the exhibition, a special shout out to Ms Susan Mirabilio who despite being a staff member, still received a large number of votes for her Seal painting, and also coming runner up in the People’s Choice, Max D’Ambrosio for his Yr 12 Creative Practice folio and final which was a surfboard with a Japanese Traditional Tattoo Art illustration.
With the above awards, we also offer congratulations to our winner of the 2026 Purpose Exhibition People’s Choice, Year 9 Student John Berto for his 4-Way Portrait of IT. Another amazing year of talent and exceptional craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation, we look forward to our next exhibitions with ACC and MACS, stay tuned!
Ms Sasha Tukavkin and Mr Chris Sedgman
Please see below the list of important dates. A reminder to all students to pay the VTAC fee by 28 September.
ATARs Released |
Thursday 10 December 2026 |
Change of Preference (CoP) closes |
Saturday 12 December 2026 |
December Round Offers |
Wednesday 23 December 2025 |
January Round One Offers |
Wednesday 13 January 2027 |
January Round Two Offers |
Wednesday 27 January 2027 |
February Offer Rounds |
Wednesday 3 February 2027 onwards |
For a full list of cancelled, amended, and new courses, visit VTAC Course Updates.
All Year 10 students are required to complete Work Experience between 16 and 20 November. All students are required to complete the Work Experience Arrangement Form that has been emailed to them. These forms are due Friday 18 September.
Students can submit their form to their Careers teacher, or to Mrs Bult ebult@parade.vic.edu.au or Ms Barnes jbarnes@parade.vic.edu.au.
The College's 2026 Cape York Immersion concluded on a wonderful note late last term with a special Reflection Evening, bringing together students and their families to celebrate an experience that left a lasting impact on all who participated.
Students who took part in the immersion shared photos, stories, and personal reflections from their time in Far North Queensland, offering their loved ones a glimpse into the unique experiences, challenges and learnings that shaped their journey.
A recurring theme in the reflections was the importance of learning on Country. Students spoke about the privilege of hearing stories directly from Traditional Owners and gaining a deeper appreciation of the enduring connection between Indigenous Australians, culture, community, and land.
“This immersion has shaped our understanding of Indigenous Australia by allowing us to experience and learn about Indigenous culture in a way that you can’t really get from sitting in a classroom. Being on Country, hearing stories and learning about the connection Indigenous Australians have to the land gave us a much better understanding of how important culture, community and Country are.
It also opened our eyes to some of the challenges that remote Indigenous communities face, especially because of how isolated some areas are. Overall, the immersion helped us appreciate Indigenous culture more and gave us all a different perspective that we will take away from the experience.”
Students' stories painted a vivid picture of life on immersion. Rugged dirt roads, river crossings, and life with only the essentials quickly became part of the adventure.
Among the many highlights shared on the evening were memories of preparing and enjoying a traditional Kup Murri feast, fishing along remote waterways, learning to make damper, visiting a local primary school in Hopevale, and participating in an Indigenous-led Great Barrier Reef tour.
Students spoke warmly of the people who welcomed them onto Country and the generosity with which stories, traditions and knowledge were shared. Walking through ancient landscapes, standing before rock art thousands of years old, and listening to stories passed down through generations brought history and culture to life in a powerful way. These experiences not only created lasting memories but also deepened students' understanding of First Nations cultures and perspectives, leaving an impression that will remain with them long after the journey has ended.
Parade students were once again invited to attend the Foster Care Association Victoria annual Carer’s Day as hosts and to hand out the Back packs we organise through our Eddy’s Back Packs project. We had the privilege of meeting some incredible volunteers and foster carers. Throughout the event, we spoke with foster parents about their experiences and the reasons they chose to open their homes and hearts to children in need of care and support. Hearing their stories was both inspiring and eye-opening.
The Eddy’s backpacks that we filled during the year contained essential items, including hygiene products, books, activities, and stationery. We also had the opportunity to personalise each backpack to suit the individual needs of the children receiving them.
This experience was meaningful for all of us. It gave us a greater understanding of the challenges faced by children in foster care and the compassion shown by those who support them. We left with a reminder that even small acts of care can make a significant difference in someone else’s life.
If any family would like to donate goods to our Eddy’ Backpack project, please contact Anne-Marie Morello
Year 11 students Lucas Baker L07 & Noah Turner L05
Term 4 has begun and the end of the year is fast approaching already, but of course the music events keep rolling on.
As mentioned in our previous newsletter, the ACC Battle of The Bands event was hosted in late Term 3 at St Mary’s College, and we were anticipating the results of the contest. We are proud to now announce that Parade ensemble Progressively Stable won the competition with an original composition written by Luca Caparole. Congratulations to Luca, Noah La Torre and graduating Music Captain Orlando Saltalamacchia on this outstanding achievement.
As we continue to support our Year 12 Music students for their performance exams, it is also with a heavy heart that we say farewell during the traditional Valete celebration on Monday 19 October. Featuring a band made up of many of our Year 12 Music students who have contributed to our department over their years at Parade, they will indeed be dearly missed. We wish them all the best for the future.
We are looking forward to our annual Carols Under the Cross concert, which promises to be a wonderful celebration of music and community as we approach the end of the year. Students, families, and staff are encouraged to secure their tickets early:
https://events.humanitix.com/carols-under-the-cross-uneu9yxu
Looking ahead in 2027, we are excited to announce that Parade College will partner once again with Santa Maria College to present Shrek the Musical in 2027. Hosted at Parade College, this production promises to be a fantastic opportunity for students to become involved both on stage and behind the scenes. Auditions and call backs are being hosted throughout October and November with plenty of opportunities for students to be involved on and off the stage.
We warmly invite students to apply for a 2027 Music Scholarship. All details can be found on the College website. Please email any questions to music@parade.vic.edu.au
Please do not hesitate to contact the Music department via music@parade.vic.edu.au with any questions.
The Old Paradians’ Association Annual Hall of Fame event is fast approaching on Friday 23 October.
The 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees are:
Joe Montemurro (1987)
Bill Gibbins AM (1963)
The 2026 Tenete Award Recipient is:
Angelo Mazzone (1982)
Held at Novotel Preston, the evening promises to be a wonderful celebration of our inductees and award recipient, and a fantastic opportunity for the Parade community to come together. Tickets are inclusive of a three-course meal, beverages and complimentary parking. For more information or to purchase your ticket, please visit https://events.humanitix.com/2026-annual-hall-of-fame-dinner
The Annual Golf Day is shaping up to be a wonderful day on the greens at Rosanna Golf Club. Ticket price includes 18 holes green fees and pre-game nibbles. For more information and ticket access, please visit https://events.humanitix.com/2026-opa-annual-golf-day
Reunions for both the Class of 1986 and the Class of 2025 will be held in the coming months at Eaglemont Cellars. Hosted by the Old Paradians’ Association, these evenings are a fantastic opportunity to reconnect and reminisce with classmates.
40 Year Reunion (Class of 1986) – Friday 6 November
1 Year Reunion (Class of 2025) – Friday 20 November
RSVPs are currently being accepted via OPA Upcoming Events. We encourage you to spread the word to as many Old Paradians from your cohort as possible.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the OPA via phone 9468 3301 or email oldparadians@parade.vic.edu.au
The Old Paradians’ Association warmly invites Parade alumni and community to attend the upcoming OPA Luncheon on Tuesday 11 November. Held at the RACV Club, the special guest speaker for the event is Mr Mark Aiello, Principal - Parade College. Mr Aiello will provide guests with a report on the 2026 academic year, and present details of coming initiatives in 2027.
For further information and ticketing, please visit Upcoming Events - Old Paradians
Parade College is delighted to offer a VCE VM Scholarship for 2027. This scholarship is available to new students who enrol in our VCE Vocational Major program (VCE VM) in Year 11 2027 at our co-educational Preston Campus, and who demonstrate the potential to be outstanding contributors in their chosen field of interest within one of the following VCE VM Programs at Preston:
Successful applicants must display a strong desire and willingness to make a valuable contribution to the College community. For further information about the scholarship and application process, please visit Scholarships at Parade College.
Registrations are now open for Parade College’s 2027 Open Day on Sunday 28 February 2027. There will be a number of displays and activities happening around the College with all Learning Area Leaders and staff available to answer any of your questions. Facility Tours will be running throughout the day. Prospective families are invited to register their attendance via https://enrol.parade.vic.edu.au/open-day
Ciao tutti! On the 3 September, the Year 11 Italian class visited the National Gallery of Victoria as part of their area of study on the Italian Renaissance and Medieval period, and their impacts on modern-day society. It was a wonderful experience to be able to get a visual representation through art of how their understanding of life and beauty shaped their respective eras. For instance, Medieval art had a heavy focus on religion, as well as being more direct and shallow, while Renaissance art was made to focus on the beauty of humanity, and immerse those who gazed upon it. We were given the opportunity to discuss our findings over lunch at Brunetti’s. Overall, the experience gave us a profound understanding of the time period, which aided us on our recent assessment task on the topic.
On Friday 11 September, we boys from Parade College went to St Joseph’s College located in Geelong to attend the Model United Nations. The representation from Parade College included two teams, each of which represented Mongolia and Cameroon, respectively. In the process, we had to assume roles of diplomats and debate with other school students on some of the global problems. Our main goal was to create, debate and adopt amendments to the draft resolution regarding Indigenous rights. This task implied the necessity to conduct research to identify the stance of the country we represented and listen to the stance of other countries as well. We had to negotiate with the other teams, make proposals, and try to reach an agreement on the amendments that would be accepted. Thus, another benefit of this experience for us was an opportunity to learn something more about Indigenous rights and the problems Indigenous people face in different parts of the world. Through the discussion of the problem from the international perspective, we managed to learn a lot about the Indigenous culture and life experiences. Overall, the Model United Nations proved to be an excellent experience for developing many useful skills.
Since its first run in 1978, the Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC) has grown into the nation's largest and most prestigious mathematics competition for school students. Each year, it brings together unique and challenging problems, crafted by leading educators and academics, to stretch students' thinking and problem-solving skills.
On Thursday 10 August, a group of enthusiastic Year 7, 8, and 9 students proudly represented the College in the Junior and Intermediate Divisions of the AMC. For 75 minutes, Greening Auditorium was transformed into a silent arena of concentration. Every problem was a puzzle, every answer hard-earned. With no calculators permitted, students relied solely on sharp minds, persistence, and determination.
The College is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of students who earned Distinction awards, placing them among the top performers in this year's competition.
Year 7 Distinction recipients: Julian Alberto L16, Edward Bridger N11, Matthew Capotosto N12, Daniel Giovannis B17, Sanjay Gunasekara T15, Saven Jinadasa N12, Nate Loader T14 and Miles McCrohan T16.
Year 8 Distinction recipients: Jonathan Jiang B13, Aerick Nag H17, Sanjay Sakthivel L18, Aarav Shrestha T17, Wedikkara Silva T18, Ryan Soleimani N18, and Luke Wright H12.
Year 9 Distinction recipients: Daniel Gaffney H12 and Shrey Patel B11.
An even more remarkable result was achieved by Brian Khuu B13, who was awarded a High Distinction, placing him among the highest-performing students in Australia. This exceptional achievement reflects both outstanding mathematical ability and a commitment to tackling complex and demanding problems at the highest level.
Congratulations to all students who participated in the AMC. Their willingness to embrace challenge, think creatively, and persevere through difficult problems exemplifies the spirit of mathematical learning and excellence at our College. Distinction and High Distinction recipients will be presented with their certificates at the next College Assembly in recognition of their outstanding achievements, while all other participants will receive their certificates in their mathematics classes.
On behalf of the Parents of Parade (POP), a reminder that tickets are now on sale for our Family, Staff and Student Trivia Evening on Thursday 26 November 2026
As well as being a key fundraiser for the Olympic Village Exodus Community, the trivia night presents an opportunity to build the Parade College community, and to participate in a relaxed and fun evening of gentle competition. There is some great food available for purchase, or feel free to bring along your own snacks.
You are welcome to put together your own table of 10, or we can add you to a table.
If you have any questions about the night please email the Parents of Parade at pop@parade.vic.edu.au
It has certainly been a busy start to the term. On Monday we officially farewelled our Year 12 students at their Valete Ceremony. It was wonderful to see so many families in attendance to support the students. Our ceremony allowed us to acknowledge the outstanding achievements and contributions of a number of students, as well as congratulate the recipients of our subject awards and the College’s Major Leadership Awards.
The Year 12 VCAA Examinations commence next week, and we wish the students the very best over the coming weeks. Our Year 12 VCE VM students have already commenced apprenticeships, are starting full-time work or pursuing further tertiary study opportunities.
Yesterday our current Year 11 leaders were officially inducted into their Prefect roles for 2027 at our College Assembly. Our 2026 College Captain, Jacob Greco, also handed over the College flag to our incoming 2027 College Captain, Shevan Fernando. We look forward to the 2027 Prefect Team leading our College community. We also had the privilege of welcoming back Victorian Supreme Court Judge, Adrian Finanzio (Class of 1989), to the Assembly to receive the Distinguished Old Paradian Award. Adrian spoke to the College community about his time at Parade, the life lessons he learnt, and what an education at Parade meant to him and his family. He shared his educational journey, and his message was so valuable and relatable to all our students.
We gathered in Greening Auditorium with our talented students and their families for our Annual Art & Technology Exhibition. What a wonderful expression of our students' creative, methodical, and thought-provoking contributions! I was truly amazed at the work our students from all Year Levels produced and it was quite difficult to choose just one piece for the Principal’s Award. This year, Year 12 student, Anthony Le, was the recipient of this award for his Visual Communication & Design Folio, Picture Story Book, and Plushie. An extraordinary amount of work and detail went into this project, like so many other students. I would like to acknowledge our staff who continue to work with our students to express themselves through Art and Technology, and our Learning Area Leaders – Ms Sasha Tukavkin, and Mr Chris Sedgman – for their time and effort into bringing this Exhibition to life.
We recently hosted our Senior Sports Awards evening. It was a great occasion where students, with their families, were recognised for their various sporting achievements while representing the College. I was amazed at the accomplishments of our students in competing against other schools in team and individual sports. A special thank you to Shaun Bowie, Dean of High Performance, and all our sports coaches for working with our students throughout the year.
Following the recent Year 12 Valete evening, we once again congratulate our Year 12 students on reaching this significant milestone in their educational journey. While their formal time at the College has now concluded, their VCE examination period is well underway, with students continuing to work towards the final assessments that will complete their secondary schooling.
We recognise that this remains an intensive period for students and their families. As examinations continue, families can support students by encouraging them to focus their efforts on areas requiring the most attention, review feedback from previous assessments to identify areas for improvement and seek clarification from teachers where needed. While preparation for examinations is important, maintaining wellbeing throughout this period is equally vital. Students are encouraged to prioritise adequate sleep, minimise distractions during study sessions, continue regular physical activity, and maintain healthy eating habits.
To our graduating Class of 2026, we thank you for your contribution to our College community and wish you every success in your remaining examinations and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
Families are encouraged to refer to the Dean of Learning (Years 10-12) section of this newsletter for important information regarding the upcoming Unit 3 & 4 VCE and VET written examinations, including examination timelines, expectations during SWOTVAC, and student preparation requirements. This information is relevant to all Year 12 students and accelerated Year 11 students undertaking Unit 3 & 4 studies.
Students must check their individual exam timetables carefully and have received the VCAA Exam Navigator, outlining all exam rules and procedures. An electronic version is available here:
https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/sites/default/files/2026-07/2026-VCEExamsNavigator.pdf
A reminder about the Year 8, 9, 10, and 11 Semester 2 Examinations. These exams will commence in early November, with dates and details provided below. During the examination period, Year 10 and 11 students are not required to attend school other than for scheduled examinations. Year 8 and 9 students attend school as normal and will have regular timetabled classes when not sitting an exam. All students are encouraged to allocate time from now, not only for homework but also for revising for the semester examinations. Your child will receive revision materials to assist in their preparations closer to their exam date.
Examination Period:
Please contact the relevant Dean of Learning, Ms Nadia Bonvicino (Year 7-9), Mr James Fogarty (Year 10-12) or Ms Jessica Wogan where you have questions.
Students will receive their 2027 elective subject allocations in early November. Once received, families can purchase required materials through Campion Education, ensuring students have both digital and print resources ready for Term 1.
While we do our best to accommodate as many subject combinations as possible, building a College timetable is a complex process with unavoidable constraints. We recognise that families may hope for specific class groupings or teachers, and we appreciate these preferences reflect your care for your child's learning. As part of our commitment to a balanced process, it is not the College’s practice to accommodate individual requests for placement with specific teachers or peers.
Where families have questions regarding their child’s 2027 subjects, they should then contact the relevant Dean of Learning, Nadia Bonvicino (Year 7-9) or James Fogarty (Year 10-12) or Dean of VCE VM, Tegan Hopkins.
Please note that Friday 20 November is a student free day for Years 7 to 10 due to Semester Two report finalisation.
All students continuing at Parade in 2027 are required to attend school for Early Commencement classes. 2027 commencement classes begin on Monday 23 November until 4 December. It is important to note that teachers will not repeat lessons regarding this information when school returns in Term 1. As such, it is essential that all students attend. To support your child’s learning during the commencement period, your child’s teachers will provide the necessary course material. Families can access from Campion Education the first novel for English or Literature that may be required during commencement classes. Please note, not all year levels will require a novel during this time.
The first written exam for most Year 12 VCE students is English, scheduled for Tuesday 27 October. However, Oral Language and Music Performance exams start earlier, with some exams preceding English. Students must check their individual timetables carefully. Students have received the VCAA Exam Navigator, outlining all exam rules and procedures. An electronic version is available here:
https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/sites/default/files/2026-07/2026-VCEExamsNavigator.pdf
It is strongly recommended that all VCE students studying a Unit 3 & 4 subject and their parents carefully read the Exam Navigator.
During SWOT VAC (starting Monday 19 October), teachers will be available during regular class times until each subject’s exam date, and students are strongly encouraged to attend school during this period. As exam scores contribute significantly to final study marks, it’s essential that students aim to perform at their academic best. Accelerated Year 11 students will continue attending all scheduled Unit 4 classes until their respective exams.
Exam location
Exams are held in the Greening Auditorium and in adjoining rooms. Like the internal exams that students will remember from Years 8-11, they should line up in Westcourt Walk at least twenty minutes before the listed start time of each exam.
Transport
Throughout the exam period, students should have several plans for how to get to school. This may include travelling by public transport, having a family member provide a lift, or having rideshare apps ready as a last resort. It is important to allow extra travel time in case of unexpected delays. Students should aim to arrive at the College at least 30 minutes early to ensure a calm start to their exam.
Permitted materials
To each exam, students must bring photo identification (for example, their student ID card or driver licence). Students must not bring any unauthorised materials into the exam room, such as mobile phones or smart devices. These devices must be stored in their lockers. Students may bring one bottle of still water into the exam room, so long as it is in a transparent plastic bottle (all labels removed) and is no more than 1500mL. Further information about permitted materials is available in the VCE Exams Navigator, on the VCAA website: https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/sites/default/files/2026-07/2026-VCEExamsNavigator.pdf
Managing stress
It is perfectly normal for students to feel some level of stress during the VCAA exam period. Families can support their child by encouraging regular sleep, balanced meals, and short study breaks. If stress feels overwhelming or begins to affect wellbeing, students are encouraged to speak with their House Leader, Mr Fogarty, or the school counsellors.
The following websites provide some useful tips for managing stress and anxiety during the exam period:
The following information is from the VCAA regarding the Derived Examination Score process:
“Students who are ill or affected by other personal circumstances at the time of a VCE external assessment and whose result is unlikely to be a fair or accurate indication of their learning or achievement in the study may apply for a DES. If their application is approved, a DES will be calculated by the VCAA. The purpose of a DES is to ensure that a student’s final result for an external assessment reflects as accurately as possible the level of achievement that would be expected based on the learning and achievement the student has demonstrated in the study over the year. It is not designed to be used to compensate for learning or achievement that has not been possible because of long-term illness or other ongoing conditions that have been present over the year.
Students are eligible for a DES if they meet all of the following criteria:
A ‘personal trauma’ may include, but is not limited to, the death or serious illness of a family member, an accident involving a family member, or family break-up. A ‘serious intervening event’ may include, but is not limited to, an accident on the way to or at an examination, attendance at a funeral of a family member or other person of close relationship, or the required attendance at a court proceeding.”
Any student or family who believes they may be eligible for a DES should contact Mr Fogarty as soon as possible.
Year 8 to 11 Semester 2 examinations will take place between 16-19 November. Students are encouraged to begin revising now and continue preparing alongside their regular homework. Revision materials will be provided closer to the examination period. During the examination period, Years 8 and 9 attend school as normal and follow their regular timetable when not sitting an exam.
All current Year 7 to Year 9 students will receive their subject and elective allocations in early November. Year 9 students will also be notified of their ExCEL subjects. Due to the complex nature of timetable construction, subject changes are not possible. Students are encouraged to speak with me (Office MQ13) if they have any questions or concerns.
It was encouraging to receive many applications for acceleration into a Unit 1-2 VCE subject for Year 10 2027. The process allowed many productive conversations to occur. The outcome of these applications has been communicated to families.
All Year 10 Bundoora students will complete an accelerated Religious Education study in 2027. This is an excellent opportunity to delve into VCE studies and high achieving students may apply to continue this accelerated study in 2028.
This month we share with you the Elevate chapter of Habits of a Parade Learner. This chapter is particularly timely. It provides examples of how students may elevate their expectations so that they can achieve their personal best. Page 16 contrasts Homework and Study and provides some tips for studying as we approach examination season. We encourage all families to read the Handbook with their child. A copy can be found at Student Links on SIMON / PAM.
Developing a positive study routine allows all students to achieve their personal best. Below is a summary of which study practices are most effective, and which do not enhance learning.
Effective study techniques:
1. Retrieval practice
Using flashcards, completing a past exam paper and creating mind-maps from memory, are all examples of retrieval practice. Testing yourself and retrieving information from memory are effective ways to strengthen your recall in the future.
2. Spaced practice
Completing regular review for shorter periods of time is more effective than completing six hours of practice the day before a test. Create a study timetable where you review each subject frequently throughout the week.
3. Interleaving
Rather than doing large blocks of study for one unit or topic of work, it is better to switch between units/topics/skills at regular intervals. This does not mean multi-tasking! Interleaving allows your brain to make better neural pathways and connections and strengthens your understanding of each topic. Often, skills are interrelated, and this approach allows you to think laterally.
4. Food, sleep and exercise
Going outside and getting some fresh air can make you feel refreshed and help you to focus when you return to your studies. Having a regular sleep and rest schedule also helps your brain. Your brain recovers and lays down new neural pathways when you sleep. Rest offers you a chance to refresh and can include wider reading. Finally, eating nutritious and healthy foods (and breakfast!) can help improve your academic results.
Ineffective study techniques:
Distractions such as a mobile phone nearby or music can detract from your learning. Whilst some students may claim that music helps them study, scientific studies have shown the opposite. A study by Perham and Currie (2014) showed that students listening to music while studying answered fewer questions correctly compared to their peers who studied in silence. Similarly, a study by Ward et al. (2017) illustrated that the further your mobile phone is from you while you study, the better you will perform on your test.
We encourage all families to discuss this with their children and help them to make positive study choices.
Families with children entering Year 9 in 2027 are advised that they will begin their first ExCEL Extended Learning Project (ELP 1) during the 2027 Early Commencement Program, commencing on Wednesday 25 November. As part of this learning experience, students will participate in an ExCEL Orientation Day on Wednesday 2 December. The day will involve supervised travel on public transport between the Bundoora and Preston Campuses and visits to several key sites involved with ExCEL across Melbourne’s CBD, helping students develop confidence and familiarity with locations that will support their project work.
Additional details will be shared with families closer to the event.
Over the recent weeks, our Year 12 students enjoyed a memorable and fitting conclusion to their formal classes, while also beginning the next chapter of their journey through a series of celebrations, presentations, reflections, and community events.
The Year 12 Farewell Assemblies provided students and staff with the opportunity to acknowledge the significant contribution of the Class of 2026 to their respective House or Campus communities. These gatherings offered a chance to reflect on the students’ journey through the College, celebrate their achievements and growth, and wish them every success as they prepare for their final examinations and future pathways.
As part of our commitment to student wellbeing and safety, Year 12 students participated in two important presentations designed to support them as they transition beyond school. John Maher delivered an engaging and thought-provoking Road Safety Presentation, encouraging students to consider the responsibilities that come with being drivers and passengers. Parade College continues to partner with John, with this year marking 17 years that he has addressed our graduating Year 12 students. His presentation remains a highly valued component of the College's Year 12 program. More information about John's work can be found at https://carmen.com.au/
Students also attended Sonya Karras' Party Safe Presentation, which focused on making informed decisions, looking after one another, and celebrating responsibly during the upcoming post-school life. Parade College has also enjoyed a strong partnership with Sonya over several years, with her presentations combining powerful stories with practical strategies and insights that help students make safe, informed, and responsible choices during this important stage of their lives.
Together, these presentations reinforced the importance of personal responsibility, wellbeing and safety as students prepare for life beyond the College.
One of the highlights was the student-led Farewell Assembly, organised and presented by members of the Year 12 Prefect team. The assembly reflected the spirit and humour of the cohort, featuring a range of light-hearted student awards that celebrated the friendships, personalities, and memorable moments of the Year 12 journey. The assembly concluded with the traditional Year 12 shirt signing, allowing students to share messages and memories with classmates and teachers.
The celebrations continued with the annual Funfields Excursion on Friday 16 October, providing students with a well-earned opportunity to relax and enjoy time together following a busy year of study and commitments.
The farewell celebrations concluded with the Valete Graduation Evening on Monday 19 October, where students, families and staff gathered to celebrate the achievements, growth, and resilience of the Class of 2026. The evening marked the formal conclusion of the students' secondary schooling and provided a fitting opportunity to recognise their many contributions to the College community.
We congratulate all Year 12 students on reaching this significant milestone and wish them every success in their upcoming examinations and/or future endeavours.
In a world where guys are often told to “toughen up” or hide their feelings, finding a place to talk honestly can be really hard. Which is why in 2014, a mental health charity known as ‘The Man Cave’ was established. This charity helps young men understand their emotions and build healthy relationships. It is not just a standard school program, it is a life-changing experience build on care, kindness, hospitality, and utmost privacy.
During my Year 9 Man Cave experience this week, I had David and Michael, who created an absolute elite environment for everyone to feel comfortable to engage and also keep the vibes stable with music and Michael’s home Samoan Islands culture of hyping up the room with immersive chants. Both David and Michael brought in some personal and deep stories that made us young men revisit the parked topic of ‘Boundaries.’
When visiting this topic, they created a soccer pitch diagram on the whiteboard of inbound (inside of the pitch) meant that the statement was ok, but the outbound (outside of the pitch) meant that the statement crossed the boundaries of the person, which showed us the right and wrong of when something is taken too far.
With this not being my first Man Cave, I would be proud in saying that this was the best one in terms of vibes, engagement, and the overall topics that are now implanted in my brain.
What makes these sessions work so well is the leaders. These facilitators are excellent role models who lead by example. For both Michael and David to talk about some stories that others would consider keeping to themselves was really hard and helped us as a class gain the courage to speak up. When leaders open up, the teenagers feel safe to do the same. In a time when many young people feel isolated online, The Man Cave brings them together. Boys realize they are not alone in their struggles, which creates a strong sense of friendship and support.
The Man Cave is a truly special organization. My words are no match for what they do in this world and the amount of situations they reduce happening in the first place.
What I have said today is just a small epigram of what they provide, and remember this one thing that all Man Cave facilitators mention, “WHAT HAPPENS IN THE CAVE, STAYS IN THE CAVE.” Always respect each others privacy and boundaries as discussed.
Through real connection and unconditional respect, they are building a brighter, healthier future for every young man.
During the same day, we also had a Year 9 Development Day, which highlighted the topics of banter, friendships, and values and how us young men should understand what is too far and what is applicable.
We had a counsellor with us to guide us through the boundaries and some real stories that show the example of what happens when you don’t think before you say.
With the help of the wonderful teachers and our helpful Dean, Miss Mazzitelli, we Year 9s had a day filled with learning and fun activities. The Development Day shows both the students and parents that this school cares about the mental health of students and what they are feeling.
Parade College continues to show its commitment to helping students grow not only academically, but also as individuals. By providing opportunities like Development Day, the College encourages students to build confidence, strengthen friendships and develop a better understanding of themselves and others. Days like these show that education goes beyond the classroom, teaching us important life lessons about respect, empathy, and the kind of people we want to become.
At the end of the day, Development Day reminded us that being ourselves also means respecting others. We learnt that having fun, building connections and expressing who we are should never come at the expense of someone else’s boundaries. Because at Parade College, it is not just about knowing who we are, but knowing when to respect where others draw the line.
Aeshan Fernando Year 9 T11
Wednesday 7 October opened our annual Art and Technology Exhibition- Purpose 2026. On the evening, we had over 350 pieces of student work on display, from family crests, lino prints, short films, guitars, folios, furniture and much more. We also introduced for 2026 a staff entry section that received some great reviews.
On the evening 3 awards were given, one for the best student work in the Technology Learning Area, one for the best student work in the Arts Learning Area and lastly the Principal’s choice award selected by our principal Mr Mark Aiello for the student work that he was most impressed by on the evening and that really captured the excellence that we strive for in all areas at the College.
Best in Technology was awarded to Zac Baini Year 9 student for his electric guitar, Matteo Sculli, Year 10 student won best in Arts and our Principal’s Award recipient was Anthony Le for his Year 12 VCD folio and children’s story book and plushie.
At the College Term 4 Assembly we announced the winner of the People's Choice Award. The People’s Choice award is based on public voting for all that attended the exhibition, a special shout out to Ms Susan Mirabilio who despite being a staff member, still received a large number of votes for her Seal painting, and also coming runner up in the People’s Choice, Max D’Ambrosio for his Yr 12 Creative Practice folio and final which was a surfboard with a Japanese Traditional Tattoo Art illustration.
With the above awards, we also offer congratulations to our winner of the 2026 Purpose Exhibition People’s Choice, Year 9 Student John Berto for his 4-Way Portrait of IT. Another amazing year of talent and exceptional craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation, we look forward to our next exhibitions with ACC and MACS, stay tuned!
Ms Sasha Tukavkin and Mr Chris Sedgman
Please see below the list of important dates. A reminder to all students to pay the VTAC fee by 28 September.
ATARs Released |
Thursday 10 December 2026 |
Change of Preference (CoP) closes |
Saturday 12 December 2026 |
December Round Offers |
Wednesday 23 December 2025 |
January Round One Offers |
Wednesday 13 January 2027 |
January Round Two Offers |
Wednesday 27 January 2027 |
February Offer Rounds |
Wednesday 3 February 2027 onwards |
For a full list of cancelled, amended, and new courses, visit VTAC Course Updates.
All Year 10 students are required to complete Work Experience between 16 and 20 November. All students are required to complete the Work Experience Arrangement Form that has been emailed to them. These forms are due Friday 18 September.
Students can submit their form to their Careers teacher, or to Mrs Bult ebult@parade.vic.edu.au or Ms Barnes jbarnes@parade.vic.edu.au.
The College's 2026 Cape York Immersion concluded on a wonderful note late last term with a special Reflection Evening, bringing together students and their families to celebrate an experience that left a lasting impact on all who participated.
Students who took part in the immersion shared photos, stories, and personal reflections from their time in Far North Queensland, offering their loved ones a glimpse into the unique experiences, challenges and learnings that shaped their journey.
A recurring theme in the reflections was the importance of learning on Country. Students spoke about the privilege of hearing stories directly from Traditional Owners and gaining a deeper appreciation of the enduring connection between Indigenous Australians, culture, community, and land.
“This immersion has shaped our understanding of Indigenous Australia by allowing us to experience and learn about Indigenous culture in a way that you can’t really get from sitting in a classroom. Being on Country, hearing stories and learning about the connection Indigenous Australians have to the land gave us a much better understanding of how important culture, community and Country are.
It also opened our eyes to some of the challenges that remote Indigenous communities face, especially because of how isolated some areas are. Overall, the immersion helped us appreciate Indigenous culture more and gave us all a different perspective that we will take away from the experience.”
Students' stories painted a vivid picture of life on immersion. Rugged dirt roads, river crossings, and life with only the essentials quickly became part of the adventure.
Among the many highlights shared on the evening were memories of preparing and enjoying a traditional Kup Murri feast, fishing along remote waterways, learning to make damper, visiting a local primary school in Hopevale, and participating in an Indigenous-led Great Barrier Reef tour.
Students spoke warmly of the people who welcomed them onto Country and the generosity with which stories, traditions and knowledge were shared. Walking through ancient landscapes, standing before rock art thousands of years old, and listening to stories passed down through generations brought history and culture to life in a powerful way. These experiences not only created lasting memories but also deepened students' understanding of First Nations cultures and perspectives, leaving an impression that will remain with them long after the journey has ended.
Parade students were once again invited to attend the Foster Care Association Victoria annual Carer’s Day as hosts and to hand out the Back packs we organise through our Eddy’s Back Packs project. We had the privilege of meeting some incredible volunteers and foster carers. Throughout the event, we spoke with foster parents about their experiences and the reasons they chose to open their homes and hearts to children in need of care and support. Hearing their stories was both inspiring and eye-opening.
The Eddy’s backpacks that we filled during the year contained essential items, including hygiene products, books, activities, and stationery. We also had the opportunity to personalise each backpack to suit the individual needs of the children receiving them.
This experience was meaningful for all of us. It gave us a greater understanding of the challenges faced by children in foster care and the compassion shown by those who support them. We left with a reminder that even small acts of care can make a significant difference in someone else’s life.
If any family would like to donate goods to our Eddy’ Backpack project, please contact Anne-Marie Morello
Year 11 students Lucas Baker L07 & Noah Turner L05
Term 4 has begun and the end of the year is fast approaching already, but of course the music events keep rolling on.
As mentioned in our previous newsletter, the ACC Battle of The Bands event was hosted in late Term 3 at St Mary’s College, and we were anticipating the results of the contest. We are proud to now announce that Parade ensemble Progressively Stable won the competition with an original composition written by Luca Caparole. Congratulations to Luca, Noah La Torre and graduating Music Captain Orlando Saltalamacchia on this outstanding achievement.
As we continue to support our Year 12 Music students for their performance exams, it is also with a heavy heart that we say farewell during the traditional Valete celebration on Monday 19 October. Featuring a band made up of many of our Year 12 Music students who have contributed to our department over their years at Parade, they will indeed be dearly missed. We wish them all the best for the future.
We are looking forward to our annual Carols Under the Cross concert, which promises to be a wonderful celebration of music and community as we approach the end of the year. Students, families, and staff are encouraged to secure their tickets early:
https://events.humanitix.com/carols-under-the-cross-uneu9yxu
Looking ahead in 2027, we are excited to announce that Parade College will partner once again with Santa Maria College to present Shrek the Musical in 2027. Hosted at Parade College, this production promises to be a fantastic opportunity for students to become involved both on stage and behind the scenes. Auditions and call backs are being hosted throughout October and November with plenty of opportunities for students to be involved on and off the stage.
We warmly invite students to apply for a 2027 Music Scholarship. All details can be found on the College website. Please email any questions to music@parade.vic.edu.au
Please do not hesitate to contact the Music department via music@parade.vic.edu.au with any questions.
The Old Paradians’ Association Annual Hall of Fame event is fast approaching on Friday 23 October.
The 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees are:
Joe Montemurro (1987)
Bill Gibbins AM (1963)
The 2026 Tenete Award Recipient is:
Angelo Mazzone (1982)
Held at Novotel Preston, the evening promises to be a wonderful celebration of our inductees and award recipient, and a fantastic opportunity for the Parade community to come together. Tickets are inclusive of a three-course meal, beverages and complimentary parking. For more information or to purchase your ticket, please visit https://events.humanitix.com/2026-annual-hall-of-fame-dinner
The Annual Golf Day is shaping up to be a wonderful day on the greens at Rosanna Golf Club. Ticket price includes 18 holes green fees and pre-game nibbles. For more information and ticket access, please visit https://events.humanitix.com/2026-opa-annual-golf-day
Reunions for both the Class of 1986 and the Class of 2025 will be held in the coming months at Eaglemont Cellars. Hosted by the Old Paradians’ Association, these evenings are a fantastic opportunity to reconnect and reminisce with classmates.
40 Year Reunion (Class of 1986) – Friday 6 November
1 Year Reunion (Class of 2025) – Friday 20 November
RSVPs are currently being accepted via OPA Upcoming Events. We encourage you to spread the word to as many Old Paradians from your cohort as possible.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the OPA via phone 9468 3301 or email oldparadians@parade.vic.edu.au
The Old Paradians’ Association warmly invites Parade alumni and community to attend the upcoming OPA Luncheon on Tuesday 11 November. Held at the RACV Club, the special guest speaker for the event is Mr Mark Aiello, Principal - Parade College. Mr Aiello will provide guests with a report on the 2026 academic year, and present details of coming initiatives in 2027.
For further information and ticketing, please visit Upcoming Events - Old Paradians
Parade College is delighted to offer a VCE VM Scholarship for 2027. This scholarship is available to new students who enrol in our VCE Vocational Major program (VCE VM) in Year 11 2027 at our co-educational Preston Campus, and who demonstrate the potential to be outstanding contributors in their chosen field of interest within one of the following VCE VM Programs at Preston:
Successful applicants must display a strong desire and willingness to make a valuable contribution to the College community. For further information about the scholarship and application process, please visit Scholarships at Parade College.
Registrations are now open for Parade College’s 2027 Open Day on Sunday 28 February 2027. There will be a number of displays and activities happening around the College with all Learning Area Leaders and staff available to answer any of your questions. Facility Tours will be running throughout the day. Prospective families are invited to register their attendance via https://enrol.parade.vic.edu.au/open-day
Ciao tutti! On the 3 September, the Year 11 Italian class visited the National Gallery of Victoria as part of their area of study on the Italian Renaissance and Medieval period, and their impacts on modern-day society. It was a wonderful experience to be able to get a visual representation through art of how their understanding of life and beauty shaped their respective eras. For instance, Medieval art had a heavy focus on religion, as well as being more direct and shallow, while Renaissance art was made to focus on the beauty of humanity, and immerse those who gazed upon it. We were given the opportunity to discuss our findings over lunch at Brunetti’s. Overall, the experience gave us a profound understanding of the time period, which aided us on our recent assessment task on the topic.
On Friday 11 September, we boys from Parade College went to St Joseph’s College located in Geelong to attend the Model United Nations. The representation from Parade College included two teams, each of which represented Mongolia and Cameroon, respectively. In the process, we had to assume roles of diplomats and debate with other school students on some of the global problems. Our main goal was to create, debate and adopt amendments to the draft resolution regarding Indigenous rights. This task implied the necessity to conduct research to identify the stance of the country we represented and listen to the stance of other countries as well. We had to negotiate with the other teams, make proposals, and try to reach an agreement on the amendments that would be accepted. Thus, another benefit of this experience for us was an opportunity to learn something more about Indigenous rights and the problems Indigenous people face in different parts of the world. Through the discussion of the problem from the international perspective, we managed to learn a lot about the Indigenous culture and life experiences. Overall, the Model United Nations proved to be an excellent experience for developing many useful skills.
Since its first run in 1978, the Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC) has grown into the nation's largest and most prestigious mathematics competition for school students. Each year, it brings together unique and challenging problems, crafted by leading educators and academics, to stretch students' thinking and problem-solving skills.
On Thursday 10 August, a group of enthusiastic Year 7, 8, and 9 students proudly represented the College in the Junior and Intermediate Divisions of the AMC. For 75 minutes, Greening Auditorium was transformed into a silent arena of concentration. Every problem was a puzzle, every answer hard-earned. With no calculators permitted, students relied solely on sharp minds, persistence, and determination.
The College is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of students who earned Distinction awards, placing them among the top performers in this year's competition.
Year 7 Distinction recipients: Julian Alberto L16, Edward Bridger N11, Matthew Capotosto N12, Daniel Giovannis B17, Sanjay Gunasekara T15, Saven Jinadasa N12, Nate Loader T14 and Miles McCrohan T16.
Year 8 Distinction recipients: Jonathan Jiang B13, Aerick Nag H17, Sanjay Sakthivel L18, Aarav Shrestha T17, Wedikkara Silva T18, Ryan Soleimani N18, and Luke Wright H12.
Year 9 Distinction recipients: Daniel Gaffney H12 and Shrey Patel B11.
An even more remarkable result was achieved by Brian Khuu B13, who was awarded a High Distinction, placing him among the highest-performing students in Australia. This exceptional achievement reflects both outstanding mathematical ability and a commitment to tackling complex and demanding problems at the highest level.
Congratulations to all students who participated in the AMC. Their willingness to embrace challenge, think creatively, and persevere through difficult problems exemplifies the spirit of mathematical learning and excellence at our College. Distinction and High Distinction recipients will be presented with their certificates at the next College Assembly in recognition of their outstanding achievements, while all other participants will receive their certificates in their mathematics classes.
On behalf of the Parents of Parade (POP), a reminder that tickets are now on sale for our Family, Staff and Student Trivia Evening on Thursday 26 November 2026
As well as being a key fundraiser for the Olympic Village Exodus Community, the trivia night presents an opportunity to build the Parade College community, and to participate in a relaxed and fun evening of gentle competition. There is some great food available for purchase, or feel free to bring along your own snacks.
You are welcome to put together your own table of 10, or we can add you to a table.
If you have any questions about the night please email the Parents of Parade at pop@parade.vic.edu.au
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