As we reach the end of another busy and rewarding school year, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our students, staff and families for their commitment and support throughout 2025. This term has been full of activity, celebration and reflection, and the final weeks have once again highlighted the strength of our school community.
Across the past two days, both campuses have hosted their annual Awards Ceremonies. These events provide an important opportunity to acknowledge academic achievement, personal growth, leadership and the many contributions our students make to school life.
I am also pleased to share the outstanding achievements of our Year 12 cohort. Their results reflect academic strength, dedication and a genuine commitment to their learning. We congratulate our Dux students, Lily Dannatt and James Liu, on achieving an exceptional ATAR of 99.9. We also congratulate the seven students who achieved ATARs above 98 and the ten students who earned perfect study scores. These accomplishments speak to the hard work and character of our senior students and the support of their teachers and families. Well done to all.
As we look ahead to 2025, I would like to draw your attention to an important update regarding digital safety and student wellbeing.
The Australian Government has introduced a new Social Media Minimum Age Law, which sets a minimum age of 16 for accounts on major social media platforms. This change will come into effect on 10 December 2025 and requires social media companies (not families or schools) to prevent users under 16 from creating accounts. The law aims to protect young people from harmful content, excessive screen use and invasive data collection.
For Bacchus Marsh Grammar families, this means students under 16 will no longer be able to maintain personal accounts on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and similar services once the law begins. While some students may find this transition challenging, they will still have access to messaging tools, online learning platforms and other positive digital resources.
The school will continue to support families through wellbeing programs, guidance, information sessions, and regular updates as more details become available.
Click here to access the full update provided on Schoolbox.
As we now move into the holiday period, I hope all families enjoy a safe, restful and refreshing break. Merry Christmas to those who celebrate, and warm wishes to everyone for a happy New Year. We look forward to welcoming students back in 2026 and continuing to build upon the strong foundations created this year.
Debra Ogston – Principal