Mid Term 1 Newsletter
Staughton College
As we reach the midpoint of Term 1, I would like to take the opportunity to reflect on what has been an energetic and purposeful start to the 2026 school year.
We began the year with optimism and clear direction. The summer break allowed time for rest and connection, and it has been wonderful to see our students return refreshed and ready to learn. The tone across the College has been positive, focused and forward looking. These early weeks are critical in setting habits for the year ahead, and I have been proud of how our students have settled into routines and embraced our expectations.
A New Chapter: Respect. Connect. Grow.
This year marks an important milestone with the launch of our new College values: Respect. Connect. Grow.
These values were developed in partnership with students, staff and families, ensuring they reflect the collective voice of our community. They are more than words. They provide a shared language for how we learn, how we behave and how we support one another.
Throughout the term, our College Executive and staff have worked deliberately to embed these values into classrooms, assemblies and daily routines. Over the course of 2026, we will continue to unpack what they look like in practice and ensure they are explicitly taught, modelled and celebrated.
Welcoming the Class of 2031
We were thrilled to officially welcome our new Year 7 students, the Class of 2031, at our Whole School Assembly. Beginning secondary school is a significant milestone, and our Year 7 students have embraced the transition with maturity and enthusiasm.
Each student has received a laptop to support their learning, and they have quickly adapted to the expectations and independence of secondary school life. We look forward to watching them grow in confidence, capability and connection throughout their journey at Staughton College.
Our Focus: High Quality Teaching and Learning
Our clear and unwavering focus remains high quality teaching and learning in every classroom.
We know that strong teaching drives engagement, builds confidence and improves outcomes. When classrooms are purposeful and expectations are high, students thrive. Students play an important role in this work by arriving prepared, engaging actively in lessons, responding positively to feedback and demonstrating curiosity in their learning.
Together, staff and students create learning environments where progress is intentional and success is achievable for every learner.
College Leadership and Staff
Our College Executive team continues to lead this work with clarity and commitment:
- Ms Berry, Student Services and Operations Principal
- Sheree Ottone, Junior School Principal
- David Reid, Senior School Principal
- Instructional Leadership Principals: Sarah Sobey, Ashleigh Valley and Nick Morley
- Business Managers: Rachel Brown (Human Resources) and Kristy Owens (Finance)
I would also like to acknowledge our teachers and support staff for their dedication during this busy period. Their guidance, encouragement and high expectations are central to both student achievement and wellbeing.
Investing in Our Environment
Over the summer break, significant progress was made to improve our facilities and strengthen pride in our College.
Key developments include:
- Three new double storey portable buildings, providing 12 additional classrooms
- Installation of permanent front fencing, enhancing presentation and security
- Classroom upgrades and refresh works to support contemporary learning
These improvements reflect our long term commitment to providing high quality, modern learning spaces for our students.
Transition to Compass
We are preparing to transition from XUNO to Compass in early March 2026. This move aligns us with the majority of Victorian government schools and will strengthen communication with families.
Families will receive clear instructions and guidance ahead of the rollout to ensure a smooth transition.
Setting the Stage for Success
To maintain a strong learning culture, we will continue to reinforce clear and consistent expectations:
- Uniform – Wearing the correct uniform demonstrates pride and unity
- Mobile Phones – Following our policy ensures classrooms remain focused on learning
- Ready to Learn – Arriving on time, prepared and engaged is essential for success
Our staff will continue to work closely with students to ensure these expectations are understood and supported.
Looking Ahead
The second half of Term 1 includes several important events:
- Week 6 – Student Photos and Compass rollout
- Week 7 – Public Holiday, Student Free Day and the commencement of NAPLAN for Year 7 and Year 9 students
As we move through the remainder of the term, I encourage all students to reflect on their progress, seek support where needed and set clear goals for improvement. Consistent attendance, effort and positive behaviour will be key to ongoing success.
A Strong and Supportive Community
Staughton College is proud of its inclusive and supportive culture. Strong partnerships between families, students and staff are essential to student success, and I thank our parents and carers for your continued trust and support.
Together, guided by our values and united by our commitment to high quality teaching and learning, we will continue building a College where every student feels proud, connected and challenged to be their best.
I look forward to the continued growth and progress of our community throughout the remainder of Term 1.
Alan Devine
College Principal
Staughton College