We’re excited to share with you the final version of our School Vision Continuum. This has been created with input from staff, students, and families, making sure it truly reflects our shared values as a community.
The continuum helps us see where we are on our journey and the steps we’ll take next to keep growing together. It’s a simple way for everyone to understand how we’re living our vision each day and where we’re heading.
The timing is perfect, as our School Review has just begun. The continuum will give the review panel a clear picture of who we are as a school and the direction we’re taking through our next Strategic Plan.
For our staff, it will guide reflection and planning. For families and students, it’s a window into our progress. Most of all, it’s a celebration of what we’ve achieved so far and a guide for the exciting journey ahead.
Together, we’ll stay focused on empowering every learner to thrive.
Strengthening Our School Communication
Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback via the Google Form sent out. Your input is greatly appreciated and provides valuable insight into what’s working well and where we can improve.
Consistent and effective communication helps ensure all families are informed, supported, and able to engage meaningfully with their child’s learning. It allows our school community to work together, celebrate achievements, and address challenges promptly.
By the end of Term 3, we will review the survey data and gather any additional information needed, with the goal of implementing a refreshed communication approach in 2026. This work supports our vision of empowering our community to be curious, creative, and confident learners, by keeping families connected and engaged in the learning journey.
Thank you again for your ongoing support.
Empowering Every Learner: Inclusion at FHS
At Fairhills High School, we are committed to ensuring every student can reach their full potential. Inclusion and personalised adjustments play a key role in this, helping students access learning at their point of need and thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
We know that each student’s journey is unique, and providing the right support can make a real difference. Adjustments may include changes to teaching strategies, learning resources, or classroom environments all designed to help students engage fully and succeed.
To strengthen this work, we are currently recruiting an Assistant Principal of Inclusion, who will begin in Term 4. This new role will focus on supporting our incoming Year 7 students from Grade 6, as well as continuing to provide tailored support for existing students across the school.
By investing in inclusion and targeted adjustments, we ensure that every learner at FHS is supported, challenged, and empowered to flourish.
E-Scooters – Not for School Grounds
You may have noticed the increasing presence of e-scooters in our community. While they are becoming a popular mode of transport for older teens and adults, they are not appropriate in a school environment and are strictly prohibited on school grounds.
Under Victorian law, riders must be at least 16 years old, and there are strict rules governing where and how e-scooters can be used. Helmets are compulsory, and riding on footpaths is not permitted. Despite these regulations, e-scooters can still pose serious safety risks due to their speed, weight, and low visibility to both cars and pedestrians.
Within a busy school setting — with students, families, and staff moving through entrances, car parks, and walkways — these risks are significantly heightened. E-scooters can lead to accidents, injuries, or near misses, not just for riders but for others in the school community as well.
As such, students are not permitted to bring e-scooters onto school grounds or use them as a means of travel to or from school. We ask that all students continue to use safe and age-appropriate travel options, such as walking, cycling (with a helmet), or public transport.
We appreciate the support of parents and carers in reinforcing this important message at home. Student safety remains our top priority, and with your help, we can ensure our school remains a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
Earlier this term, our Year 8A students had the exciting opportunity to visit KIOSC (Knox Innovation, Opportunity and Sustainability Centre) to take part in the Sustainable Future program.
The day was filled with thought-provoking, hands-on activities that introduced students to the challenges and possibilities of creating a more sustainable world. From exploring renewable energy solutions to experimenting with eco-friendly designs, students were encouraged to think critically and creatively about real-world environmental issues.
The program highlighted how everyday choices—whether at home, school, or in the wider community—can have a lasting impact on the planet. More than just a fun excursion, the experience sparked meaningful conversations and inspired many students to consider their role in shaping a greener future.
It was a fantastic day of learning, discovery, and motivation—one that will surely leave a lasting impression on our future changemakers.
Year 11 VM Big Issue Classroom Visit
On 11 August, our Year 11 VM students had the valuable opportunity to attend a session at the Big Issue Classroom — an educational initiative by The Big Issue, a social enterprise dedicated to supporting people experiencing homelessness, disadvantage, or marginalisation.
The Big Issue Classroom offers students a unique, real-world learning experience focused on social awareness, resilience, and the importance of community. During the session, students heard from a powerful guest speaker who shared her personal journey through challenges such as homelessness, unemployment, and social isolation. Her story was both inspiring and thought-provoking, encouraging students to reflect on empathy, respect, and how small actions can contribute to a more inclusive society.
In addition to the talk, students took part in a range of interactive activities aimed at developing teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. The session provided a meaningful opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-life issues.
We are incredibly proud of our students for their respectful participation and thoughtful engagement. Experiences like this highlight the importance of learning beyond the classroom — understanding the world around us and exploring how we can be part of positive change.
Year 11 Food Studies Students Inspired by Industry Leaders at Chin Chin
Last week, our Year 11 Food Studies students had the incredible opportunity to visit the iconic Chin Chin restaurant for an enriching behind-the-scenes experience. The excursion formed part of their School-Assessed Coursework (SAC), where students are tasked with designing an original menu item to be showcased alongside Chin Chin’s renowned favourites.
The visit included an exclusive tour of the kitchen and dining space, followed by an inspiring talk and lunch with three of the industry’s most respected professionals: Benjamin Cooper, Executive Chef for the Lucas Group; Dan Briggs, Executive Chef at Chin Chin; and Ben James, General Manager of Chin Chin. With over 20 years of experience each, these culinary leaders shared their knowledge, creative processes, and passion for food with the students.
Our budding chefs gained valuable insights into the fast-paced world of contemporary hospitality, learning about menu development, flavour balance, cultural influences, and the importance of teamwork in a professional kitchen. The experience not only deepened their understanding of the food industry but also provided meaningful inspiration for their upcoming menu design task.
We are proud of our students’ engagement and curiosity throughout the day and look forward to seeing the innovative dishes they create as part of their assessment.
Year 12 Biology – Exploring Genetics and Conservation at KIOSC
Students in the VCE Biology program recently participated in their final KIOSC visit for the year — a hands-on exploration of the genetic relatedness of Madagascar’s Lemur species. Drawing on real-world data from scientists in the field, the session focused on the conservation of these unique primates, providing a powerful context for understanding biodiversity and genetics.
This engaging inquiry not only deepened students’ appreciation of conservation biology but also showcased many of the molecular techniques they have studied throughout Unit 3–4. It was a fitting highlight to the year’s learning, bringing together theory and application in a meaningful and memorable way.
We wish all our VCE Biology students the very best as they complete their studies and begin preparing for their end-of-year examinations.
2025 Children’s Book Week at Fairhills High School
Theme: “Book an Adventure”
From August 19 to 22, Fairhills High School came alive with the spirit of storytelling as we celebrated 2025 Children’s Book Week. This year’s theme, “Book an Adventure,” invited students to explore the magic and excitement that books bring to our imaginations.
Throughout the week, students had the opportunity to get involved in a range of fun and engaging activities both in the library and around the school. Highlights included:
A Book Cover Hunt around the school
The launch of the brand-new FHS Library Catalogue
The opening of our very own FHS Free Library
A special display of 2025 CBCA award-winning and notable books
The ever-popular Guess the Number of Bookworms in the Jar
A lunchtime screening of Jumanji, a thrilling adventure film based on the beloved novel
A huge thank you goes to Ms Kirby and Ms McGillicuddy for their creative planning and organisation of the week’s events. Congratulations to all our enthusiastic participants — and a special shout-out to our prize winners!
Book Cover Hunt Winner
Lily (9B)
Guess the Bookworm Jar Winner
Jake (7B)
Adventure Book Blooket Champions
1st – Sylvia (8B)
2nd – Ruby (9C)
3rd – Xavier (7C)
Students also earned House Points by completing themed word searches — well done to everyone who joined in and helped their houses!
Book Week 2025 was a great success, filled with adventure, creativity, and a love of reading. We can’t wait to see what next year brings!
Coca-Cola Day 3 – Year 10 Students Dive Deeper Into Industry Insights
Our Year 10 students continued their exciting journey with the Coca-Cola program on Day 3, as they geared up for their upcoming presentations on 28 October. The day offered an enriching mix of real-world learning, practical experiences, and engaging industry insights.
A key feature of the day was the opportunity for students to interview Coca-Cola employees. These conversations provided first-hand perspectives on career pathways, essential workplace skills, and the inner workings of a global brand—giving students valuable context for their future aspirations.
One of the most eye-opening moments came as students learned about Coca-Cola’s national fridge distribution process. They explored the logistics and scale behind this operation, gaining a new appreciation for the complexity of supply chains in big business.
Adding a hands-on element to the day, students also practiced applying Coca-Cola’s iconic branding stickers to fridges—a task that required both precision and attention to detail. This practical activity highlighted how even the smallest elements of branding and distribution play a big role in a company’s public image.
Overall, the day not only strengthened students’ presentation readiness but also expanded their understanding of how branding, logistics, and business strategy come together in the real world.
Fairhills Student Leaders Shine at the Knox Youth Summit
On Tuesday, eight of our Fairhills High School student leaders proudly represented our school at the annual Knox Youth Summit, alongside peers from a range of local schools.
The summit served as a valuable platform for young people to express their ideas, concerns, and aspirations. Throughout the day, our students engaged in meaningful discussions about the key issues facing youth in the Knoxfield area. They explored both the challenges and opportunities affecting their generation and collaborated on practical ideas for creating positive change within the community.
Our student leaders demonstrated impressive maturity, teamwork, and a strong sense of purpose. We commend them for their thoughtful contributions and their ongoing commitment to strengthening student voice—not just at Fairhills, but across the wider community.
Well done to all involved!
From Tricky to Exam Ready Club
Our From Tricky to Exam Ready Club is here to support all students completing a Year 12 subject as they prepare for their end-of-year exams. Charles, Ms Blackson and our VCE teaching team have been working together to create targeted sessions that will help you build confidence and exam skills.
The club runs each week:
• Tuesdays (2:45–4:15pm): English & Literature focus
• Wednesdays (2:45–4:15pm): Other subject exam preparation
These sessions are a great opportunity to:
• Get a head start on exam prep
• Collaborate with peers
• Receive teacher and peer feedback
• Develop effective study and revision plans
Past students have found that completing practice exams, reviewing work with peers, and seeking feedback from teachers is one of the most effective ways to prepare. Our sessions will guide you through this process step by step.
If you’d like to join this week’s club, please complete the Google Form by Tuesday lunchtime:
We have established a free library of donated books for students to take. Students are encouraged to bring their own well read books and leave them for other students to also enjoy. Donated books are identified by a green sticker and the collection is located in the Classroom area of the Library.
Instrumental Music Concert – Wednesday 3 September
We are excited to announce that our Annual Instrumental Music Concert will take place next week on Wednesday 3 September in the Performing Arts Hall at school.
Join us for a wonderful evening celebrating the incredible progress of our students, from Year 7 beginners right through to the VCE Performance Band. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the hard work and talent of our young musicians.
During the concert, special awards will be presented, and every performer will receive a participation certificate as a token of their achievement.
All family and friends are warmly invited to attend. Entry is free!
On Friday 15 August, our talented girls participating in the State School Spectacular attended their mega rehearsal at Maroondah Nets in Heathmont.
They joined students from 46 schools across the state for a full costume run-through of the show. The energy was electric, and it was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come together and see the production come to life.
Our students represented our school with enthusiasm and professionalism as they continue working hard in the lead-up to the big performance at John Cain Arena on Friday 13 September. We can’t wait to see them shine on stage!
Student Leaders Prepare for Diversity Week
Last week, 30 of our dedicated Fairhills High School student leaders came together for a full day of planning and team bonding at Realm Library and Holy Moly.
The morning was spent collaborating in groups to design an exciting week of events that will celebrate the rich diversity within our school community. Among the many creative ideas was the return of our much-loved International Food Day, as part of a wider Cultural Diversity Day.
To help make this event a success, we’re calling on our school community to get involved! We’re looking for volunteers to contribute dishes that represent different cultures for International Food Day on Monday, 8th September. If you’re interested, please check Compass for more information and the sign-up sheet.
In the afternoon, students enjoyed a range of team-building activities — from escape rooms to mini golf and bowling. It was a fantastic opportunity for our leaders to strengthen their teamwork skills while having a lot of fun in the process.
We are incredibly proud of their enthusiasm and initiative. We look forward to a vibrant and inclusive Diversity Week, running from 8 to 12 September at Fairhills High School!
Year 8/10 Activity Day at Lysterfield Lake
Our long-awaited Year 8/10 Activity Day at Lysterfield Lake was a wonderful success! Students had the opportunity to take part in a range of outdoor adventures, including tackling the mountain bike trail and enjoying canoeing on the beautiful lake.
After an action-packed morning, everyone gathered to share a delicious pizza lunch, which was the perfect way to recharge. The day was made even more special by Melbourne turning on a stunning, sunny day; ideal conditions for being outdoors and active.
A huge thank you goes out to all of our staff who attended and supported the event. Your time and effort made the day possible and ensured that our students had a safe and memorable experience.
It was fantastic to see so many smiles, teamwork, and laughter throughout the day; an experience that will be remembered fondly by all!
Year 9 Connect – Road to Zero Excursion- Melbourne Museum
On Wednesday 13 August, our Year 9 Connect class visited the Melbourne Museum to take part in the Road to Zero program. This engaging and interactive workshop focused on the importance of road safety, exploring the consequences of risk-taking and the responsibility we all share when on the roads.
Students began their experience in the Experience Space, where they explored 13 immersive exhibits designed to highlight key road safety themes. Through interactive displays and simulations, they were encouraged to think critically about the real-world impact of choices made by drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
The highlight of the day was the Learning Studio, a purpose-built learning hub where students participated in the Physics Challenge program. Using cutting-edge technology, including virtual reality and interactive touch tables, they applied their knowledge to investigate the science behind road safety. Working collaboratively, students tackled a team-based challenge that tested both their problem-solving and teamwork skills.
It was a highly valuable excursion that provided our students with important life lessons in a fun, hands-on way. We are confident that the knowledge and awareness gained from the Road to Zero program will stay with our students long into the future.
Fairhills High School Clubs & Activities
After School VCE English Club
When: Tuesdays, 2:24 PM Where: Room S7
If you’re studying VCE English, join us for focused sessions with support from our VCE teachers. Get help with essays, SAC prep, and more — plus valuable feedback to improve your work.
Open to all VCE English students. We hope to see you there!
Homework Club
When: Wednesdays, 2:45 – 4:00 PM Where: Room S11
Get help with your homework in a calm, supportive space.
All students are welcome — bring your books, questions, and motivation! Great way to stay on top of schoolwork with guidance from staff.
Japanese Club（日本部）
When: Every second (Week B) Thursday at lunchtime Where: Room M03
Love Japanese culture? Curious about the language? Whether you’re a fan of anime, origami, or just want to learn, this is your place!
Have Japanese cultural or language skills? Contact Winstone-sensei at jessica.winstone@education.vic.gov.au
Parents with skills to share are also welcome!
楽しみにしています！See you there!
VEX Robotics Competition Teams
When: Tuesdays, 2:45 – 3:45 PM Where: Room I03
The VEX Robotics Competition is an engaging, hands-on STEM program where students design, build, and code their own robots to complete specific challenges. It fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation as students compete against other schools in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Hydrogen Car Grand Prix Teams
When: Tuesdays, 2:45 – 3:45 PM Where: Room I03
The Hydrogen Car Grand Prix introduces students to renewable energy and sustainable engineering. Teams design, build, and race model cars powered by hydrogen fuel cells, learning about clean energy technologies, aerodynamics, and mechanical systems in a fun and practical way.
Q Squad
When: Thursday lunchtime Where: Room I07
Q Squad is a safe, supportive, and inclusive space for students of all identities to come together, celebrate diversity, and promote inclusion. We host discussions, and activities that raise awareness and foster acceptance throughout the school community.
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.
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.
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 Bob Stewart (formerly Buxwear/Dandy Sportswear) in Dandenong.
Empowering Parents: Help Your Child Become a More Effective Learner!
Looking for ways to support your child’s learning and boost their academic success? You’re in luck! Our school has partnered with Elevate Education, an award-winning organisation renowned for helping students develop essential study skills like self-motivation, time management, and effective preparation.
As part of this partnership, we’re excited to invite parents to Elevate’s exclusive webinar series – designed to equip you with practical tools to support your child at home.
Upcoming Parent Webinars:
How to Help Your Child Improve Their Note Taking
September 3, 6:30–7:30pm (AEST)
How You Can Support Your Child During Exams
September 17, 6:30–7:30pm (AEST)
These sessions are a fantastic opportunity to gain insights and strategies directly from education experts.
Let’s work together to help our students thrive this year and beyond!
Accessing Support through Wellbeing for 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 for 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
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 8:15 AM-8:40 AM
Food Support for families in need
Each fortnight on a Tuesday after school from 2:48 PM- 3:08 PM 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.
Director of Basketball Academy, Sports Coordinator and PE and Health teacher.
How long have you been at Fairhills High School?
5 years with a one year break in 2024.
What do you enjoy most about working at Fairhills High School?
Working with the amazing PE department and listening to the white noise of basketballs bouncing all day.
What is one interesting fact about yourself that people might not know?
I beat Ben Simmons (former #1 pick of the NBA) in a basketball tournament game.
What inspires you in your role?
Students reaching milestones and showing improvement in their sporting endeavours.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work?
Playing basketball and watching the Carlton Football Club lose each week.
I love Survivor. Legit reckon if I went on, there is no chance I am losing. I study the game, know all the ins and outs.
What’s a favourite book, movie, or TV show you would recommend?
For movies, everyone should watch Space Jam, Like Mike and Coach Carter, inspirational stuff there, gives me shivers every time I watch them.
Another piece of media, my own basketball highlight reel, everyone should watch it. Quick watch though, only goes for 10 seconds
What advice would you give to students or parents?
“You miss 100% shots you don’t take – Wayne Gretzky” – Michael Scott
What’s a memorable moment you’ve had at the school?
We had a delay back from QLD on our Australian School Championship basketball trip, and our two student teams started playing a cricket game with gathered equipment to pass the time. It was great to see the connections formed from the trip and was a fun time to join in on (even our injured players getting involved; providing the crutches to play with as bats!)
