At Fairhills High School, our values of Acting Responsibly, Building Relationships, and Showing Respect guide the way we learn, work, and interact each day. They are the foundation of the kind of school community we are building together.
During our recent School Review, it was highlighted that these values can never be reinforced too often. They are not just words on a poster and need to be visible, lived, and celebrated across our whole school.
Our next steps will focus on bringing these values to life in many different ways. This will include making them more visible in classrooms and around the school, weaving them into teaching and learning, and celebrating when students and staff demonstrate them in action.
By embedding our values in everyday practice, we strengthen the culture of learning at Fairhills. Acting Responsibly helps us take ownership of our growth, Building Relationships connects us with others, and Showing Respect creates an environment where everyone can thrive. Together, these values bring our vision of “Empowering our community to be curious, creative, and confident learners” to life.
Diversity Week: Strength in Our Differences
Diversity Week at Fairhills High School has been an inspiring reminder of the many cultures, identities, and stories that shape who we are as a school and as a nation. Throughout the week, students and staff participated in activities that celebrated difference and highlighted the strength that comes from inclusion. From sharing food and traditions on Cultural Day to celebrating identity through LGBTQIA+ events like the flag run and bracelet-making, the week showcased how diversity enriches our lives.
Diversity has always been central to Australia’s story, shaping our communities and building the society we share today. By recognising and valuing the differences within our school, we not only honour this legacy but also prepare ourselves for the future. Diversity challenges us to think in new ways, strengthens our empathy, and helps us become more curious, creative, and confident, qualities that sit at the heart of our vision at Fairhills.
A big thank you to Emma O’Connor, Kristy Burrell, and our student leaders for their creativity, energy, and leadership in making these events such a success.
Supporting Your Child Through Stress
Every child responds to stress differently, but the most important step is creating space for them to share what’s on their mind. If they’re not ready to open up to you, encourage them to talk with another trusted adult, friend, or mentor. Keeping worries bottled up often makes stress grow.
Here are some helpful strategies you can try at home:
Check the basics
Take a look at your child’s daily routine. Are they getting enough sleep, eating well, and moving their body each day? Small changes in these areas can make a big difference.
Balance commitments
Help your child find the right mix between school, extracurricular activities, and downtime. Too much on their plate can quickly feel overwhelming. Talk together about what feels manageable.
Write it out
Encourage your child to jot down what’s worrying them. Together, you can sort through their list and discuss which concerns feel most pressing and what steps might ease the pressure.
Get active
Physical activity is one of the best stress relievers. Encourage them to play a sport, go for a walk, or do any movement they enjoy to release tension.
Stay organised
Support your child in planning their time and breaking tasks into smaller, achievable steps. This can make big challenges feel less daunting.
Try journaling
A diary or journal can give your child a safe space to process their feelings and reflect on their day.
As we wrap up Term 3, it’s a good time to reflect on what makes learning at Fairhills both purposeful and inspiring. At the heart of our work is a simple philosophy, guided by our school vision: empowering our community to be curious, creative and confident learners. Great learning happens when students are challenged, supported and given the tools to express their thinking with clarity and confidence.
This term, our teachers have been working in teams to trial different writing strategies in the classroom. These approaches, focused on helping students write with precision and purpose, are already showing promise. After all, the ability to communicate ideas clearly is not just a skill for English — it’s the secret ingredient for success across every subject.
At the beginning of September, we were delighted to welcome applications from local Year 6 students for our 2026 STEM Academy. The excitement and curiosity these future Year 7s bring is contagious, and we’re thrilled at the thought of nurturing the next wave of scientists, engineers and problem-solvers here at Fairhills.
We are also celebrating the achievements of our current students. Our Year 9s who demonstrated high growth in NAPLAN since Year 7 are being recognised on the last day of term with the time-honoured student favourite — a pizza lunch. It’s a small way of saying, “hard work pays off… and sometimes it tastes like pepperoni.”
Meanwhile, our Year 12s are heading into the business end of their school journey. In the first week of the holidays, they will sit their practice exams on site. To support them further, they will also join the Knox Schools Exam Revision Program, where chief examiners share invaluable tips and insights. It’s not every day you get advice from the people who actually mark the exams. It’s a bit like getting the recipe straight from the chef.
As always, thank you for your ongoing support of teaching and learning at Fairhills. Together, we’re building learners who are confident, creative, and ready for the challenges ahead.
Bill Exton
Assistant Principal – Teaching and Learning
Year 7 Students – Reaching for the Stars!
Our Year 7 STEM Academy students have been boldly venturing into the world of space exploration, designing and building their very own mini satellites! Using CubeSat models and launch boxes, they’re gaining hands-on experience with engineering design, space technology, and creative problem-solving.
This exciting project encourages students to think like real aerospace engineers—planning, testing, and refining their satellite designs to get them ready for launch. It’s been inspiring to watch their enthusiasm, innovation, and teamwork as they turn science fiction into science reality!
Year 9 Connect Excursion – Chinese Museum & Chinatown
Our Year 9 Connect students recently took part in a fascinating excursion to Melbourne’s Chinese Museum and Chinatown. The experience offered a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of Chinese migration, cultural traditions, and the important role Chinese communities have played in shaping Victoria.
During their visit, students engaged with powerful stories of migration and resilience, gaining insight into how these histories continue to influence contemporary Australian society. A guided walking tour through the heart of Chinatown further deepened their understanding of Melbourne’s vibrant multicultural landscape.
This immersive day out provided a meaningful extension to classroom learning, fostering greater cultural awareness and appreciation for the diverse community we are part of.
Year 10 Students – Coca-Cola Immersion at KIOSC
Our Year 10 students are currently gearing up for their final presentation at KIOSC on 28 October, marking the culmination of their Coca-Cola Immersion Day 4 experience. Over the past few weeks, they’ve tackled real-world challenges in the food and beverage industry, diving into areas such as product development, sustainability, and innovative marketing.
Working collaboratively, students have developed creative solutions and sharpened their problem-solving and entrepreneurial skills. The final session will provide them with a valuable opportunity to present their ideas in a professional setting, demonstrating both their creativity and critical thinking.
We’re incredibly proud of their hard work and achievements. Our Year 10 innovators are a shining example of how STEM learning connects classroom knowledge with real-world applications.
Year 11 Chemistry Students Investigate Water Contamination at KIOSC
Our Year 11 Chemistry students recently had the opportunity to apply their scientific knowledge to a real-world environmental scenario during an excursion to KIOSC. Tasked with investigating potential water contamination in Lake Argyle, located in the Kimberley region, students explored the impact of an open-cut mine on the local ecosystem.
Using immersive VR technology, students virtually navigated the terrain, gaining insight into how contamination affects surrounding flora and fauna. Back in the lab, they conducted a series of experiments—including colorimetry, precipitation reactions, and titration—to analyse copper levels in simulated water samples.
This hands-on experience allowed students to deepen their understanding of analytical chemistry while tackling a complex environmental issue. It was a valuable and engaging way to connect classroom learning with real-world challenges.
Year 12 Chemistry Students Dive into Analytical Spectroscopy at KIOSC
Our Year 12 Chemistry students recently took part in an exciting Masterclass in Analytical Spectroscopy at KIOSC. This hands-on experience allowed them to extend their classroom learning by applying a range of spectroscopy techniques—including infrared (IR) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy—in a real-world investigation.
Working with advanced scientific instruments, students analysed data from each method to identify an unknown white powder. Their investigation successfully led them to determine the substance as caffeine.
This immersive practical activity not only deepened students’ understanding of key analytical techniques but also demonstrated the vital role these tools play in modern chemical analysis.
Year 12 Vocational Major Community Lunchtime Event
In the second-to-last week of Term 3, our Year 12 Vocational Major students hosted their Community Lunchtime Event as part of their final major assessment.
The event’s purpose was to raise funds for several student-selected charities, including:
Victorian Brotherhood Ltd
Alliance for Gambling Reform
Down Syndrome Australia
Foodbank Victoria
The students took full charge of the event, from planning and organizing to designing stalls, promoting the activities, and managing every detail. The lunchtime buzzed with excitement, community spirit, and plenty of fun.
A highlight of the day was the popular water balloon toss—where students paid to throw balloons at teachers, with even our Principal getting involved!
Through their creativity, teamwork, and enthusiasm, the Year 12 VM students not only raised money for important causes but also demonstrated the true spirit of giving back. It was a fantastic way to celebrate the end of their VM journey.
Fairhills High School’s annual music concert, held on Wednesday 3 September, was a resounding success and a true celebration of student talent and dedication.
The evening featured a dynamic program of performances from students across all year levels and ensembles. From the very first note to the final encore, the audience was captivated by the variety, skill, and passion on display—highlighting the strength and diversity of our vibrant music program.
The concert was warmly embraced by an enthusiastic audience of families, friends, and staff, creating an uplifting atmosphere filled with community pride and support.
A heartfelt thank you to our talented students for their outstanding performances, to the music staff for their tireless guidance, and to the broader school community for their continued support of the arts at Fairhills High School.
Fairhills Shines at the 2025 Victorian State Schools Spectacular
Over the weekend, a group of our talented students took to the stage at the 2025 Victorian State Schools Spectacular — and true to its name, it was nothing short of spectacular!
Performing to a full house at John Cain Arena, our students joined more than 3,000 young performers from across the state in a dazzling celebration of dance, music, and production. After seven months of dedicated rehearsals, their hard work truly paid off as they brought energy, passion, and teamwork to the stage.
We couldn’t be prouder of the way our students represented Fairhills — with enthusiasm, professionalism, and an unforgettable performance that will be remembered for years to come.
Japan in Melbourne – A Cultural Adventure for Year 9/10 Students
Our Year 9/10 Japanese class, along with members of the Japanese Club, recently had the unique opportunity to experience a slice of Japan—right here in the heart of Melbourne!
As part of their city experience, students immersed themselves in Japanese culture through a day filled with discovery, flavour, and fun. From exploring quirky gachapon capsule toy machines to browsing the aisles of Daiso and a Japanese supermarket, every stop offered a glimpse into everyday life in Japan.
Lunch was a highlight, with students enjoying Japanese-style sandwiches and baked goods from the beloved Coppe Pan bakery. For dessert, many indulged in the famous Hokkaido cheesecake from Uncle Tetsu, while a few adventurous foodies sampled taiyaki—traditional fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste.
It was a fantastic day that brought the classroom to life, offering students a chance to apply their language skills, expand their cultural knowledge, and of course—taste some amazing food!
The excitement was echoed in the student feedback:
“This excursion was the best!”
“Today’s excursion was たのしい (enjoyable).”
“Today was the best excursion yet. Thank you for taking us.”
“Today was great. ありがとうございます (thank you)!”
“It was an interesting trip that enabled me to learn a lot about Japanese food and culture.”
“I enjoyed the trip because it was a new experience—especially the taiyaki—and the convenience stores were very interesting. Thank you so much for taking us!”
A big thank you to all the staff who helped organise this enriching and memorable experience. これからも、日本語をがんばりましょう！(Let’s continue doing our best with Japanese!)
Courage, Commitment, and Kanji: Year 7 Students Shine at Japanese Speech Competition
Imagine standing in front of a room full of people to deliver a speech written by someone else.
Now imagine delivering a second speech — one you wrote yourself.
Now imagine giving both of those speeches from memory.
And now, imagine doing all of that… in Japanese.
That’s exactly what Erica and Ebony from Year 7 did at the JLTAV (Japanese Language Teachers’ Association of Victoria) Junior Speech Competition.
Their preparation, perseverance, and passion for language were on full display as they stepped up to this unique and challenging opportunity. The competition required not only confidence and composure, but also a deep understanding of spoken Japanese.
We are incredibly proud of both girls for representing our school with such courage and determination. Their efforts reflect not just talent, but hours of practice, a willingness to challenge themselves, and a genuine love for learning.
おめでとうございます! (Congratulations!)
R U OK? Campaign: Growing a Culture of Care and Connection
As part of our ongoing commitment to mental health and wellbeing, our school recently hosted a vibrant and impactful R U OK? campaign. This special event aimed to encourage open conversations and remind us all to check in on those around us.
A standout moment was an interactive activity where students reflected on ways to support others by answering the question, “How do you check in on someone?” Their thoughtful responses were written on paper leaves and added to our symbolic R U OK? Tree — creating a beautiful visual of care, empathy, and community spirit.
Adding a sweet touch to the day, our Wellbeing Captains organized a delightful cupcake bake sale. This not only raised awareness but also helped foster a warm and inclusive environment for everyone.
The campaign was a powerful reminder that sometimes, just asking “Are you okay?” can make all the difference.
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.
Support Our Basketball Teams!
Our Fairhills basketball teams are preparing to compete at the 2025 Australian School Championships (ASC) this December in Queensland – and we need your support!
Come down to Scoresby Bunnings (Ferntree Gully Road) on Sunday 28 September where our players will be cooking up a storm on the BBQ. Grab a sausage, show your support, and help our teams get to Queensland!
Can’t make it on the day? You can still support us by donating – every contribution helps cover travel, uniforms, and other costs:
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.
