Welcome to the 2026 academic year.
We have commenced the year positively and with a strong sense of purpose. As I shared at our first staff meeting and in year-level assemblies this week, I have refined our school vision:
Melbourne High School aims to be the State’s highest performing school – a lighthouse school for public education.
This is an ambitious vision, but certainly not an unattainable one. Our students are highly capable and our community is aspirational. Our results in recent years demonstrate that Melbourne High School is among the top-performing schools in the country.
Importantly, this vision extends well beyond academic achievement alone. As our motto reminds us, we are more than just marks. Through high‑quality teaching and learning, our expectation is that we graduate students who are well equipped for further education, employment, and community service. This requires us to deliberately develop the personal and character strengths that enable our students to become good global citizens — well‑rounded, resilient, and principled young men.
This philosophy underpins the emphasis we place on our co‑curricular programs, arts initiatives, cultural activities, study tours, and sport. To remain “match fit” and at the top of our game, to borrow a sporting metaphor, requires an investment of body, mind, and spirit. Melbourne High School therefore offers an extensive and carefully considered educational experience.
We develop our students physically through sport, camps, and our health and physical education programs, ensuring they can fully engage in their studies and manage the pressures of a selective-entry environment. I reminded the boys that I begin my day in the gym or at my local pool, not at my desk. Regular physical activity improves oxygenated blood flow to the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.
We nurture intellectual curiosity and capability through daily lessons and assessments that involve independent study, research, reading of source materials, group discussion, team challenges, and Socratic dialogue.
Finally, we work deliberately on building students’ belief in themselves and their capabilities. When challenges arise, as they inevitably will, our students must have the grit, conviction, and determination to persevere.
I look forward to seeing our students thrive in 2026, and I thank you for your ongoing support as we partner together on their journey at Melbourne High School.
Congratulations to our Class of 2025.
The Class of 2025 achieved outstanding results, reflecting their commitment, resilience, and hard work throughout their time at Melbourne High School. I extend my sincere thanks to all teaching and support staff whose dedication and expertise played a vital role in supporting our students to achieve these outcomes.
Year 9 Derrimut Cup
Our Year 9 students have had a busy and exciting first week. They have begun their classes, started forming new friendships, and experienced the friendly rivalry that defines our House Competitions. Each year, the Derrimut Cup is awarded to one of our four Houses, with points accumulated through sporting, music, and art events across the year.
This week, the Year 9 cohort took part in a series of sporting activities. Judging by the smiles on their faces, our students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and gave their all throughout the event.
Upcoming Events
Over the next couple of months, several major school events will take place:
- House Swimming Carnival – Monday 9 February
- Turning of the Sod Ceremony to mark the commencement of construction of Melbourne High School at Forrest Hill – Wednesday 18 February
Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, will preside over the event. - House Chorals – Thursday 19 March
Making a Successful Transition to a New School
Transitioning to a new school can feel daunting. Students are navigating a new campus, new subjects, and new teachers. For many attending Melbourne High School, there is also the added challenge of travelling significant distances each day. On top of this, the depth and pace of a selective school curriculum can take time to adjust to.
Please be assured that feelings of anxiety or uncertainty are completely normal. Encourage your child to speak with teachers, mentors, or support staff if they have any concerns. We are here to support them every step of the way.
Dr Tony Mordini
Principal
