Dear Como SC community
As we wrap up the school year, I would like to wish all students, families and staff a safe, relaxing and enjoyable holiday period. I hope the Christmas break provides time to rest, reconnect and recharge. I look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2026, ready for another exciting year at Como Secondary College.
As I reflect on 2025, it is clear this has been a year of momentum, growth and strong community spirit. Across teaching, wellbeing, student achievement and future planning, our students and staff have continued to demonstrate the values that define the Como Way. I am extremely proud of what we have achieved together.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching and learning have remained strong throughout the year.
Our ATAR students approached mock exams, study seminars and final preparations with focus and maturity, entering their WACE examinations with confidence. Year 11 General students completed their ISTs and exams, setting themselves up well for the transition into Year 12, while students undertaking OLNA demonstrated a clear understanding of its importance in achieving WACE.
Across EMITS, CREATE, the Golf Academy, Hockey Specialist Program and Music Specialist Program, students participated in high-engagement learning opportunities that continue to set Como apart. These programs not only develop high-level skills, but also foster discipline, teamwork, creativity and commitment.
Our end-of-year celebrations showcased the outstanding work of our students through events such as the Technologies Exhibition, Twilight Arts Night, and our Golf, Hockey and EMITS celebrations. These events highlighted the breadth of talent across the college and the strong growth students demonstrate from Year 7 through to our senior years.
Student Wellbeing, Culture and Recognition
Wellbeing and culture remained central to our work in 2025.
The shift from traditional bells to music selected by our Student Council has contributed to a more positive and calm school environment. Initiatives such as the Mentally Healthy Expo, Armed for Life sessions, Emo Majok’s visit, and Oodie/Hoodie Day promoted resilience, humour and connection.
The introduction of the Stars Program has already delivered strong outcomes for our Indigenous female students, particularly in attendance and engagement. Student voice also featured strongly this year, highlighted by a thoughtful and well-developed proposal from students to revitalise our Library — a clear example of young people advocating for their learning environment.
This week we held our Awards Assembly, where we celebrated student achievement, effort and contribution across the college. We also concluded the year with our Good Standing excursion to Adventure World, rewarding students who consistently met expectations around behaviour, attendance and engagement.
Community Engagement and Opportunities
Our calendar has been full of opportunities for students and families to engage with school life. Students represented the college in interschool athletics, AFL carnivals, high-level hockey fixtures against the Japanese U16 national team, and numerous dance and music performances and showcases.
Primary school partnerships were strengthened through music workshops, school tours and preparations to host PEAC in 2026. Vocational pathways were supported through Try-a-Trade days at Bentley TAFE, giving students valuable insight into future career options. Our Year 12 students concluded their schooling with dignity and pride through the Farewell Assembly, Guard of Honour and Valedictory Evening.
Staff Acknowledgement
As we close the year, I want to sincerely thank the staff who are retiring or moving on from Como Secondary College. Each has made a meaningful contribution to our students, our culture and our community. Their commitment, professionalism and care have helped shape the school we are today, and I thank them for their service and wish them every success in the next chapter of their journey.
Infrastructure and Planning
Significant progress has been made in planning for the future.
Work continued with architects and project managers on the $30 million new build, ensuring it complements our existing campus and protects our natural environment. The upcoming air-conditioning upgrade, commencing over the Christmas break, will see all classrooms fitted with reverse-cycle systems. Planning also continued for the BYOD rollout in 2026, alongside the development of a virtual tour to support international enrolments.
Looking Ahead – Attendance in 2026
As we look toward 2026, a key focus will be attendance. We know attendance matters. Students who attend every lesson, every day are more engaged, achieve stronger results and build positive learning habits. This is an area where families and the school must work together. Setting clear expectations around attendance starts at home, and we ask parents and carers to actively encourage regular, punctual attendance.
Closing Reflection
Overall, 2025 has been a busy, productive and rewarding year. Our students continue to impress with their achievements, character and ambition, and our staff remain committed, flexible and forward-thinking. With strong enrolments, major upgrades ahead and a clear sense of direction, Como Secondary College is well positioned for a successful and exciting 2026.
Thank you for your ongoing support throughout the year. I look forward to what we will achieve together next year.
I wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic New Year.
