ELTHAM College Family News 28 November

On Friday 21 November, our community gathered at the historic Ivanhoe Town Hall to honour the Class of 2025 at their Valedictory Dinner, a night rich with stories, gratitude and heartfelt celebration. 

Families, staff and friends came together to reflect on the journey these young people have taken, from curious learners to confident, capable graduates ready to take on the world. It was a chance to reconnect, remember and share in the excitement of all that now lies ahead. 

We were privileged to hear from our College Board Chair, Jim Grant, who reminded students of the courage, curiosity and respect they have shown throughout their schooling. Year 12 Coordinator, Simone Kenny, warmly acknowledged families who have been part of ELTHAM College for many years, reflecting on the strong relationships and deep community ties that make ELTHAM so special. 

A highlight of the evening was the official welcome into our Alumni community by Archie Butterfield-Tucker and Isaac Brennin, inspiring their peers to stay connected and continue contributing to College life long beyond graduation. In addition, Sandra Diaz shared her thanks on behalf of ECCA, celebrating the many ways families have supported and uplifted our College over the years. 

The night was filled with pride, laughter and a few tears as we celebrated personal achievements, friendships forged, and the shared experiences that have shaped this remarkable group of students. 

To the Class of 2025, we could not be prouder of the people you have become. You leave with our values at your heart: Be Courageous. Be Curious. Be Respectful. Own It. One Team. And you step forward now as alumni who will continue to Grow Hearts and Minds in the world beyond ELTHAM. 

We wish each and every one of you joy, success and endless possibility. Congratulations, Class of 2025 - this is just the beginning. 

Lesley Moulin 
Director, Senior School

Bell Shakespeare’s work experience program was a truly wonderful opportunity for me to explore the world of theatre from a professional perspective. During the week, I had the chance to see what happens behind the scenes of a major production — including observing the technical rehearsal for Bell Shakespeare’s touring performance of Romeo and Juliet at the Sydney Opera House. 

I also participated in practical, hands-on workshops where we worked alongside theatre professionals to create a reimagined Shakespeare piece. We learned about many different areas of theatre such as acting, stagecraft, set design, costuming and prop design, as well as casting, screenwriting, marketing and directing. 

Throughout the experience, I developed valuable skills in communication, leadership, creative problem solving and collaboration. I am excited to apply everything I learned to my studies and my future career. 

Anson Kam 
Year 10 Student 

We are thrilled to celebrate an incredible milestone for our 2025 Sport Captain, Nick Driscoll, who has been selected by Geelong with the final pick in the AFL Rookie Draft. 

This achievement is the result of Nick’s hard work, determination and commitment to continuous improvement. His strong performances this season saw him invited to the State Draft Combine, as well as make his VFL debut with the Northern Bullants - both clear recognition of his readiness to take the next step in his football journey. 

But while talent plays a part, it is Nick’s character that truly sets him apart. He leads by example, and is supportive, humble and always willing to put in the extra effort, with his positive influence felt across our sporting programs. During Nick’s time at the College he was involved in the our Elite and Emerging Athlete Program (EEAP), and won EEAP Athlete of the Year in 2024. 

On the very day of his drafting, Nick attended the College Valedictory dinner celebration, welcomed with cheers and warm embraces from his peers and teachers. 

As Nick prepares to embark on life at the elite level with the Cats, he does so with the full pride and support of the ELTHAM community. We cannot wait to see what comes next and will be cheering for him every step of the way. 

Congratulations Nick - we are so proud of you! 

ELTHAM College is committed to providing a safe environment for our young people, free from harm and abuse. As such we adhere to the Victorian Child Safe Standards (the Standards) in all aspects of our organisation.  The Standards provide clarity and practical steps to help keep children and young people safe.  

One way to keep children and young people safe is to ensure all people working with them have a Working With Children Check.  The aim of the check is to assist in protecting children from sexual and physical harm by ensuring that people who work with, or care for, them are subject to a screening process. 

If you, as a parent or guardian, are employing a tutor, babysitter or instrumental teacher or any other person over the age of 18 to supervise or work with your child outside of school we would highly recommend that they have a WWCC.  If you have accessed this service from a registered provider, it is their legal responsibility to ensure all their employees have one. However, it is your right to clarify that the person you have working with your child has a valid, current, Working With Children Check.  

There are two types of checks, a volunteer check and an employee check.  Although the assessment process is the same, if someone is being paid to work with a child then they must apply for an employee check rather than a volunteer check. A volunteer might be a coach of a sporting team or scout leader versus an employee might be a tutor, babysitter or instrumental teacher where there is payment for services. The employee check covers both volunteer and paid work.  

More information regarding WWCC can be found at https://www.vic.gov.au/working-with-children-check.  

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to myself or one of the Child Safe Officers at ELTHAM College. 

Julia Walker 
Head of Student Services 

From Tuesday 25 November to Thursday 27 November, a talented squad of Year 11 students proudly represented ELTHAM College at the Volleyball Victoria Junior Open, one of the state’s most competitive school volleyball events. 

Across three action-packed days, the boys took to the court for seven tightly contested matches. With four wins and three losses, they secured a commendable 5th place finish against some of the strongest school teams in Victoria. 

What stood out most throughout the tournament was the group’s resilience and teamwork. Whether celebrating a hard-fought victory or pushing through a narrow defeat, the boys demonstrated impressive problem-solving skills,

 communication, and a commitment to supporting one another. As the competition progressed, their confidence grew, as did the strong team culture they created together. 

Their performance highlighted ELTHAM College’s growing presence within the volleyball community and reinforced the College’s values in action: courage under pressure, curiosity in refining their play, respect for one another and the game, and collective pride in representing their school. 

Congratulations to all players on their fantastic effort and teamwork. A special thank you to the parents and coaches whose support made the event possible. 

Sean van Oosterwijck 
Sport, Health & Physical Education