Respectful Relationships: Our Common Ground

The current American election offers a timely reminder of the contrasts between our nations—not just in political systems but in the way we navigate differences as a society. While it can be captivating to watch the American political landscape unfold, it’s also an opportunity for us to reflect on what makes Australia unique.

Although Australia is not a perfect country (none are), we take our right to vote seriously and cherish our democratic processes. Yet, in many cases, we leave our political stances at the door, choosing instead to engage with one another on a personal level, rather than through heated debate. Interestingly, the most passionate divides in our country tend to revolve around sport—whether it’s AFL, soccer, or rugby! These rivalries are often portrayed through light-hearted banter rather than bitter conflict. While we may be fierce competitors on the field, this doesn’t carry over into our daily interactions.

At Fairhills High School, we aim to instill these same values in our students. Respectful relationships are the foundation of our school culture, teaching us to listen to different perspectives, value diverse opinions, and maintain a sense of camaraderie—even when we don’t see eye to eye. In a world where division can easily take centre stage, we should always focus on building connections that unite us, rooted in kindness, empathy, and mutual respect.

Thank you for your ongoing support in fostering an environment where respectful relationships thrive.

2024 School Performance Report – Celebrating Growth and Success

I am delighted to share the highlights of our 2024 School Performance Report, which focuses on our progress in two key areas: Learning and Wellbeing. Over the past few years, we have seen significant growth in both areas, reflecting the hard work, commitment, and collective efforts of our entire school community.

In Learning, our students have shown impressive academic progress, demonstrating greater confidence and improved outcomes across key subjects. In Wellbeing, we have made strides in creating a supportive, inclusive environment where students feel connected and valued.

This success is a testament to the dedication of our staff, students, and families. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in making Fairhills High School a place where every student can thrive.

Headstart Program – A Strong Start for a Successful Year

As we approach the end of the school year, it’s time once again for our Headstart programme, running from November 25 to December 6. This two-week orientation is a valuable part of our school calendar, helping students transition smoothly into the next year of learning and setting them up for success.

Headstart gives students a head start on their learning, introduces them to their new teachers, and provides an opportunity to form positive relationships with their peers.

At Fairhills High School, we believe in setting our students up for success from day one, and Headstart is a key part of that process.

The programme is structured to give students a taste of the upcoming curriculum, establish clear expectations, and reinforce our core school values:

• Acting Responsibly: Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning by coming to class prepared and engaged. A strong start now sets the tone for the year ahead.
• Building Relationships: The transition into a new year can be challenging, but HeadStart provides a supportive environment for students to build connections with new classmates and teachers, forming the basis for a successful and collaborative school year.
• Showing Respect: We emphasise the importance of respect in every interaction—whether it’s listening attentively, valuing others’ contributions, or following classroom routines.

Attendance during HeadStart is crucial. This time is not just an introduction but an integral part of the learning journey, helping students adjust to new expectations and start the year with confidence. We ask for your support in ensuring your child attends every day of the programme, arrives on time, and is ready to learn.

Additionally, please be reminded that November 21 and 22 will be student-free days. These days are dedicated to giving our teachers the time they need to prepare high-quality lessons and resources to best support your child’s learning journey next year.

We are looking forward to seeing all our students ready to embrace this opportunity and make the most of the HeadStart program. Together, we can ensure that every student is equipped to thrive in the year ahead.

2025 Contributions

Parent/carer contributions play a vital role in supporting the development and enrichment of exciting opportunities for all students.

After thorough discussions with the school community, the School Council has reviewed and updated the contributions structure. At the end of October, the Council formally approved these changes.

The 2025 contribution details have now been shared with parents and carers via Compass. We sincerely thank all families in advance for their support in enhancing your child’s educational experience.

Contributions can be made in a variety of ways:

• COMPASS: Payments Centre
• Electronically via BPAY. Please email fairhills.hs@education.vic.gov.au for your personalised details
• EFTPOS, cash and cheque payments can be made directly at Fairhills General Office

If you have any questions or need further clarification, please don’t hesitate to contact the General Office.

Ian Van Schie
Principal

School Tours

To book a School Tour go to: https://www.trybooking.com/COXXT

We look forward to welcoming you and showing you around our great school.

2024 Term Dates

Year 7 Celebration Evening – December 6 (5pm-6.30pm)

We wish to invite all our Year 7 families to our Year 7 Celebration Evening—a special event dedicated to recognising and celebrating the achievements of our wonderful students. This evening will be held at the Middle School Learning Hub 1, where we welcome families to join us for a BBQ and an opportunity to reflect on the fantastic year we’ve had together.

Just a friendly reminder to consent on Compass by November 27.

The celebration night will feature displays of students’ work, showcasing their learning and creativity across various subjects. It’s a chance for families to see first-hand the incredible growth and progress their child has made during their first year of secondary school. We are excited to share this moment with you as we highlight the diverse talents and skills our Year 7 students have developed over 2024.

The Year 7 Celebration Night is a wonderful opportunity for us all to come together—students, families, and staff—to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that has been put into this year. It’s also a chance to strengthen our community ties, enjoy some delicious food, and create lasting memories as we close out the year.

Year 7 Physics

Year 7A has had an exciting term studying Physics and exploring the world of Forces!
They’ve been busy in class creating balloon rockets and tea bag rockets. Using the Scientific Method, they experimented by changing variables to see how it affected their rockets’ motion. It’s been a fantastic hands-on learning experience filled with curiosity and discovery!
Great job, Year 7A! Keep reaching for the stars!

Year 8 Students Making an Impact: Cowards Punch Campaign and Future Careers

Our Year 8 students have been busy making a difference this term. First, they’ve engaged with the Cowards Punch campaign, a powerful initiative aimed at raising awareness about the consequences of one-punch violence. Through research and discussions, students have not only deepened their understanding of the emotional and physical toll of such actions but also worked to spread the message of responsibility, respect, and non-violence within our school community.

Alongside this, Year 8 students have been exploring their future career aspirations. Through lessons and discussions, they’ve been thinking critically about their interests, skills, and the variety of paths available to them. This career-focused work is helping students see the endless possibilities ahead of them as they embark on choosing their year 9 elective classes.

As we watch our Year 8 students grow and reflect on these important topics, we’re excited to see how they will continue to evolve in the coming year. Stay tuned for more updates as they embark on their journey through the Connect program, in 2025 and beyond!

Year 9-10 Outdoor Ed Bike Ride

Students took to the trails on a beautiful sunny day and rode around local trails, including Blind Creek Trail, Eastlink Trail and Dandenong Creek Trail. This was a great opportunity for the Outdoor Ed class to experience how to use our local environment in a sustainable way and see how the environment can be kept in a way that allows future generations to have the same experiences as we do. It all ended with a stop at the Tim Neville Arboretum where we parked up and used the public barbeques to enjoy a well-earnt rest with a few sausages in hand.

Year 11 Chemistry – KIOSC

Our Year 11 Chemistry students recently went to KIOSC to complete an assessment task for Unit 2. Students initially used VR to explore the terrain of Lake Argyle, in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, to look for possible causes of water contamination from a nearby open cut mine. Using a range of experimental techniques, including colorimetry and titrations, the class determined that a high level of Copper in the water way was impacting the lake’s fauna and flora.

Year 11 VM

The VM teaching team want to take a moment to congratulate our Year 11 VM students for completing their First Aid and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification over the past two days. These are incredibly valuable qualifications that will not only benefit them in the immediate future but also play a significant role in their personal and professional development moving forward.

First Aid is a crucial skill that empowers you to respond effectively in emergency situations. Whether it’s providing assistance in a workplace, helping a friend or family member, or even acting in a public setting, knowing how to manage injuries or medical emergencies can make all the difference. With this certification, you’re equipped to handle a variety of situations confidently, knowing you have the knowledge and skills to save lives and support those in need.

Similarly, the RSA qualification is essential for anyone looking to work in hospitality or any setting that involves serving alcohol. Understanding the legal responsibilities and how to manage situations safely and professionally is vital not only for your personal success but also for the safety and well-being of others. This certification opens doors to many career opportunities in the hospitality industry, a sector that thrives on responsibility and professionalism.

These certificates are more than just pieces of paper—they’re real-world tools demonstrating their commitment to safety, responsibility, and professionalism. Whether they’re pursuing a career in hospitality, healthcare, or another field, these qualifications will set them apart and give you a competitive edge in their future pathways.

2024 Awards presentation

Our 2024 Awards Ceremony will take place in February 2025 at our first whole school assembly. This special event is an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students across all year levels. The ceremony highlights excellence in learning, leadership, and personal growth, reflecting the hard work, resilience, and commitment demonstrated by our students throughout the year.

Honouring these achievements reinforces our school’s values and inspires all students to strive for their best. We look forward to celebrating these successes together and acknowledging the remarkable efforts of our Fairhills High School community.

Parents/carers of students who will receive an award will be invited to this special occasion. More information will be sent out before the end of the year by Jennifer Nansen – School Enhancement Leader.

EMR Intermediate Girls Basketball

Recently our Intermediate Girls Basketball team went out to compete in the Eastern Metropolitan Region competition due to being undefeated in their Division tournament. It was an exciting experience for our girls as they hadn’t made it to this stage during their time at Fairhills. The girls showed great teamwork to win one game and narrowly lose another by 5 point after being 12 points down at one stage. They showed great teamwork and support for each other across the day and have a great future of Fairhills basketball yet to come!

FHS Free Little Library

The FHS Free Little Library is now open!!

If students see a book in the Little Library they want to read they can take the book. When they are done they can bring the book back to library or pass it on the friend. If students have books they would like to share they can leave it in the Little Library for others to enjoy.

The Free Little Library is located in the FHS Resource Centre. Books have been donated by staff, students and the FHS Library. Please see Ms McGillicuddy or Ms Kirby if you have any questions about the Free Little Library.

Happy reading everyone!

Halloween in the Library

Halloween is always a special time of year with spooky book displays, Halloween activities and cauldrons filled with lollies for the students.

Even Pennywise dropped by to borrow his favourite book!

Instrumental Music Report

All instrumental music students have been completing their written music notation CAT this term.
Music students learn the traditional music notation system along with the sight-reading skills to transfer it onto their instrument.
I encourage parents to log onto compass to view their child’s assessed rubric for their final CAT of the year.

The re-enrolment process for the instrumental music program 2025 school year has begun. The consent and payment process occurs through events on compass. Instrumental music teachers will discuss this with their students over the coming weeks. If students indicate they would like to learn in 2025, parents will receive an email with a link through compass for enrolment.

Any queries regarding the instrumental music program, please email nicole.mcalister@educatioin.vic.gov.au or phone Nicole McAlister through the school office.

Year 9 Shark Cage Program

Running the Year 9 shark cage program has been a dream of our Wellbeing Team for over a year now.

We completed our training in 2023 and was wonderful to role out the program over Term 2 and 3, for all our Year 9 students who identify as female.

We were really impressed with how the young women who attended were engaged with the content, willing to share stories, to participate in role plays and activities and to apply the content to their own lives.

The shark Cage program is designed for young women to understand and reduce abuse in a non-victim blaming and empowering way. Throughout the sessions we covered:

• The difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships
• Increasing capacity to set boundaries
• Learning their rights
• Increasing skills in respectful, assertive communication
• Understanding of consent
• Decreasing victim-blaming attitudes
• Learning how to care for and be kind to themselves
• Understanding “gut feeling” about people and situations
• Increasing self-worth
• Ability to recognise abuse or exploitative person

It was a privilege for Peta (Wellbeing Co-ordinator) and myself to be able to have these 9 sessions with these amazing young women in year 9 and to witness their growth, openness and understanding through this program. The verbal and written feedback from the program was really positive.

We look forward to doing it again in 2025 with the Year 9 level, and we continue to dream about having a similar program for our Year 9 young men.

Gail Ackroyd
Chaplain/Counsellor

Seeking Welcoming Homestays for International Students

Fairhills High School is seeking expressions of interest from families to host international students.

As a host family, you’ll receive a weekly allowance of $370 to cover living costs. Fairhills High School will provide comprehensive support to both you and the student as they settle into life and studies in Australia. Hosting an international student is a wonderful way to share our culture, learn from another, and make a positive impact on a young person’s educational journey.

If you or someone you know would be interested in becoming a host family, please get in touch with the Fairhills High School International Student Coordinator via phone – 9758 5022 or email – fairhills.hs@education.vic.gov.au

Last week, our Year 9 students came together for a fantastic Connect Celebration, marking the end of the year with an incredible culinary showcase. Sixty enthusiastic students rolled up their sleeves and whipped up an impressive menu to feed over 150 family members and friends, turning the afternoon into a feast of flavours and teamwork!

With a collaborative spirit, the students prepared a variety of mouth-watering dishes, all made from scratch. The menu featured crispy homemade spanakopita, freshly rolled sushi, garlicky cheese bread, salads, gourmet sausages, fluffy pikelets, berry-topped forest fruit pavlovas, and delectable sugar cookies that were a big hit, especially with the younger kids in attendance.

The celebration was a true team effort, and none of it would have been possible without the dedication and guidance of our Connect team. Special thanks go to Mr. Mihailidis, Mr Baker, Klaus, and Ms La Leggia, whose support helped bring this event to life.

This Connect Celebration was more than just a meal—it was a chance for our students to shine and demonstrate the values of collaboration, creativity, and community. Congratulations to all!

2025 VET Orientation 27 November

All students commencing a VET in school program in 2025 are required to attend a compulsory Orientation session at the venue where their program is to be held.

Please see the list of times and dates for each course 2025 MULLUM VET CLUSTER ORIENTATION.

Students enrolled at Box Hill and Chisholm are not required to attend Orientation.

School Savings Bonus

The Victorian Government is delivering the School Saving Bonus – a one-off $400 support for government school students from Prep to Year 12 in 2025.

From Tuesday 26 November 2024, you will receive an email from the Department of Education with your unique $400 School Saving Bonus code.

The School Saving Bonus will help families cover the cost of uniforms, textbooks, excursions, activities and more.

If you have multiple children enrolled in Victorian government schools for 2025, you will receive one School Saving Bonus code email per child. These emails might arrive on different days. Please make sure to check your spam/junk email folder.

Parents and carers can use the School Saving Bonus code in store at school-nominated suppliers. Parents and carers can also choose to access the School Saving Bonus online system, where they can allocate part or all the $400 bonus to use at school nominated-online suppliers or for school activities. 

To learn more about the School Saving Bonus, visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/school-saving-bonus A step-by-step user guide will be available on the webpage on 26 November.  

If you have not received your School Saving Bonus code via email by Friday 29 November, please contact the Department of Education by emailing school.saving.bonus@education.vic.gov.au

General Office Details

The General Office hours are: 8.00am-4.00pm

Telephone: 9758 5022
Email: fairhills.hs@education.vic.gov.au

Parents, contractors, visitors and volunteers should always make contact with the General Office first when visiting the school or requiring to make contact with their child.

Appointments with teachers must be made via telephone or email.

Compass

Compass is the communication portal for Fairhills – https://fairhillshs-vic.compass.education/

Parents/carers are provided with log in details. For any questions or trouble logging in please contact the General Office. Using Compass allows parents/carers to have access to up-to-date information and the following features:

• Monitor attendance, and enter an explanation for absence or lateness
• Communicate with teachers
• Update contact details
• View their child’s timetable and the school calendar
• Monitor homework and assessment tasks
• Download and view semester reports
• Book parent-teacher-student interviews each semester
• Pay and provide consent for events and school contributions

Compass Events / Payment Centre / Course Confirmation

Please check Events regularly as these need to be consented/paid by the due date for your child to attend.  Also check out the Payment Centre and Course Confirmation sections.

Click here for the Compass Parent Guide

Student Absences

If your child will be absent or late due to illness or for any other reason, parents/guardians are able to:

• Mark their absence on Compass / or
• Send an email to the school: fairhills.hs@education.vic.gov.au / or
• Phone the absence hotline on 9758 5022. Leave a message after the prompt. The absence hotline is operational 24hrs a day, 7 days a week for your convenience.

Student’s arriving to school late are required to sign in (using their Student ID Card) on the Compass Kiosk machine at the General Office.

If a student is required to leave school early for any reason they should bring a note from their parent/guardian and record this on Compass. All students are required to sign out from the General Office.  If they need to call home, they should come to the office.  Students should not use their mobiles.

Asthma / Diabetes / Anaphylaxis / Epilepsy

ASTHMA, DIABETES, ANAPHYLAXIS, EPILEPSY or an ALLERGY management plans are required to be updated and submitted to the school every 12 months. Please ensure you have provided this to the office in the best interest of your child.

If you require any assistance, do not hesitate to contact the office on 03 9758 5022.

Parent Carpark – pick up and drop off

If you drop/pick up your children please ensure you:

• use the parent car park – not the staff/guest car park, except for those with a disability parking permit
• pull into a parent parking spot to let your child out/pick them up
• when exiting turn left onto Scoresby road (as per the sign)

Uniform Shop

The purchase of School Uniforms are now through Dandy Schoolwear in Dandenong.

Dandy Schoolwear

Factory 8, 169 Cheltenham Road, Dandenong
(03) 9792 0424

Monday to Friday – 9:00am to 5:00pm
Saturday – 9:30am to 2:00pm

Uniform details

Uniform Price List

2024 Fairhills High School Student Dress Code

2024 Bell Times

Two different bell times run during the week:

• Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday
• Monday and Thursday (includes House Group)

2024 Team Leaders

Accessing support through Wellbeing: Students

The Wellbeing Team can support students to navigate challenges that may be impacting on their ability to engage in learning or general feelings of wellbeing. This can include: transitions and adjusting to change, family or relationship difficulties, grief and loss, mental health concerns, drug and alcohol concerns, and many other challenges that young people encounter.

An initial appointment with a member of the wellbeing team will be an assessment of need with the student or family which will help to decide the best support option for the student. Support options available through the Wellbeing Team are:

• Individual short-term counselling, psychoeducation and skills development
• Group programs
• Referrals to external support agencies.
• Students may also be encouraged to access self-help strategies or resources.

Referrals to see someone from the team are made through year level leaders. Parents, students or teachers with concerns are encouraged to speak to their year level leader. Students or parents can also make an appointment directly with someone from the Wellbeing Team by attending the Wellbeing Centre, calling the school office or contacting us via email at wellbeing@fairhillshs.vic.edu.au

Year level leaders who are made aware of concerns by a teacher will always endeavour to make contact with parents before referring a student to the Wellbeing team.
All counselling sessions with students are confidential and information is only shared if a student is deemed to be at risk of harm.
If you or anyone you know needs immediate support, please contact KidsHelpline or lifeline on the numbers at the bottom of this page

What’s on in Wellbeing?

The Wellbeing Centre is open at recess and lunchtime for students who need a quiet, safe place to regulate or access support. The centre is also used for lunchtime group programs which are advertised through compass or on notice boards.

Accessing Support: Families

Many families, at some stage, need a little extra support to manage the normal challenges of life as well as the more difficult situations that arise. If you are experiencing hardship, stress or circumstances that are impacting on the wellbeing of your family life or your ability to cope, the Wellbeing Team can help to connect you with community services that can provide support. Please contact the Wellbeing Team via the school phone number or via email at wellbeing@fairhillshs.vic.edu.au

Clothing Support: Thread Together

We recently partnered with Thread Together to provide free and brand clothing for students in need. Thread Together collects brand new unsold clothing from all around the country, saving it from landfill. Thread Together believe that people in need deserve the dignity and choice of new clothing, without judgement. If your children need any help with clothing, please contact the Wellbeing team for further assistance.

Breakfast Club

With the support of volunteers from local churches- Knox Baptist and Hillsong Church we are able to provide a breakfast club 4 days a week for our students
Mon/Tues – recess time
Wed/Fri- before school 8.15am-8.40am

Food Support for families in need

Each fortnight on a Tuesday after school from 2.48- 3.08pm we have food support available for families who may be in need, for whatever reason. We have a selection of frozen meals and pantry items that families can collect from the former school canteen area without question or judgement. We know that access to food can be a real challenge for some families and we feel strongly about supporting the basic needs of our students and families. Watch out for compass posts each fortnight.

External Food Support Options

The following community agencies provide food support for families in need.