Issue 11 - 2026

Student leadership is a great honour, but it also carries significant responsibility. Our leaders are called to serve others, lead by example, foster positive relationships and contribute to a culture in which every student feels valued, included and encouraged to participate. Above all, they help shape and strengthen our school community.

As Swan Valley Anglican Community School continues to grow, so too do the opportunities available for students to lead. With the introduction of our new six-House structure in 2027, we have expanded our student leadership model to provide greater opportunities for student voice, participation and service.

Our 2027 leadership team will include:

• 2 Head Prefects 
• 2 Deputy Head Prefects 
• Prefects for Chapel and Service, Performing Arts and Sport 
• House Prefects representing each of our six new Houses 
• Ambassadors representing Chapel and Service, Performing Arts, Sport and each of the six Houses

The introduction of our Ambassador program marks an exciting new chapter in student leadership at the School. These students will work alongside our Prefects to support House activities, encourage participation, strengthen school spirit and contribute positively to the life of the School.

Together, 22 Year 12 students will undertake significant leadership responsibilities in 2027. They have been selected because they consistently demonstrate the qualities we value most: integrity, responsibility, respect, service, teamwork and a genuine commitment to others.

I congratulate each of these students on their appointment and thank them for their willingness to serve. I look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make across our community in the year ahead.

The week commenced with a special Year 12 Breakfast, prepared by our Café and School staff, before students travelled to Perth for a Eucharist at St George’s Cathedral. Our School Chaplain, The Reverend Toby Sherring, delivered a heartfelt homily, encouraging students to reflect on their experiences, relationships and aspirations for the future. Upon returning to School, the Year 12 cohort showcased their creativity and school spirit during the much-anticipated Valedictory Dress-Up Parade.

To celebrate this tradition, more than 200 students and staff from Kindergarten to Year 12 came together to create our annual Oh, the Places You’ll Go! video. Each participant read a section of the book, creating a heartfelt farewell message from the entire School community to the Class of 2026.

The project is a wonderful reflection of the connections that exist across our School. From our youngest learners to our graduating students, and from teaching and support staff to School leaders, every contribution symbolised the encouragement, pride and support that surrounds our Year 12 cohort as they prepare to embark on new journeys.

Premiered on Valedictory Day, the video celebrated not only how far the Class of 2026 has come, but also the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. It served as a reminder that while their time at school is drawing to a close, they leave with the confidence, skills and values to embrace whatever comes next.

We extend our sincere thanks to all students and staff who participated in this special project. The video will remain a treasured keepsake for our graduates and a lasting reminder of the community that has supported them throughout their time at Swan Valley Anglican Community School.

Please enjoy our Class of 2026 Oh, the Places You'll Go! video:

Inspired by On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons, the project brought together students from Kindergarten to Year 12 through our Buddy Program. The song's uplifting message reminds us that commitment, perseverance and a positive attitude can help us overcome challenges and achieve great things. Throughout the year, this message has encouraged students to remain dedicated to their learning, friendships, goals and personal growth.

The video showcased the strength of the relationships that exist across our School, with Primary and Secondary buddies dancing together alongside staff members. It was wonderful to see students of all ages participating with enthusiasm and embracing the opportunity to celebrate our shared theme in a fun and memorable way.

Projects such as these reflect the unique spirit of Swan Valley Anglican Community School. They strengthen the connections between students, foster a sense of belonging and demonstrate the power of community. The success of the video is a testament to our Buddy Program, our vibrant school culture and the willingness of our students and staff to embrace opportunities with energy and commitment.

Please enjoy our On Top of the World Whole School Buddy Dance Video: 

Throughout the year, students have been encouraged to remain committed to their learning, relationships, goals and personal growth. Whether through perseverance in the face of challenges, dedication to helping others, active participation in school life or consistently striving to do their best, these award recipients have exemplified what COMMITMENT looks like in action.

Their efforts reflect not only this year's theme, but also the values and culture that define Swan Valley Anglican Community School. We are proud to recognise and celebrate their positive contributions to our community. Congratulations to all recipients on this well-deserved recognition.

The project provided students with an opportunity to explore this important pillar in creative and meaningful ways. Through colourful artwork, thoughtful messages and imaginative designs, students demonstrated their understanding of COMMITMENT to learning, friendships, personal growth and contributing positively to our community.

At the Term 3 Final Assembly, students proudly presented their posters to the School community, showcasing the tremendous effort, creativity and enthusiasm that had gone into each piece. The variety of ideas and artistic approaches highlighted the many ways COMMITMENT can be demonstrated in everyday school life.

The posters will continue to be celebrated throughout the year, featuring in the 2026 edition of The Vine Yearbook and as part of our end-of-year COMMITMENT video.

Thank you to all of our Primary students and staff for their hard work and dedication to this wonderful project. The quality of the posters was outstanding and provided a powerful reminder of the importance of COMMITMENT in everything we do at Swan Valley Anglican Community School.

Details: Friday 30 October, 11:45am to 1:20pm

Cost: Free

Please RSVP to Merri.Corr@svacs.wa.edu.au or contact our Registrar, Merri Corr, on 9297 9506.

We look forward to welcoming you back for this special occasion!

This will involve abseiling 130m down Central Park Tower in the Perth CBD, while raising funds and awareness for Anglicare WA. This thrilling abseil will showcase possibly the best view in Perth (from the 33rd floor of Central Park Tower) and is officially Australia’s tallest charity abseil. You can read more about the Plunge and donate to our Swan Valley Team via the link below.

 The Plunge Artists are: Christian Devellerez (English), Louis Hourston (Music), Lara Sawyer (Visual Art) and Victoria Swift (Music).

Please donate here: https://anglicare-wa.grassrootz.com/central-park-plunge-2026-anglicare-wa/the-plunge-artists

Please note that interviews typically occur approximately 18 months prior to the year of entry, and a number of year groups are already full or nearing capacity. Families who have not yet submitted an application for a future student are encouraged to contact our Registrar, Mrs Merri Corr, on 9297 9506 or via email at enrolments@svacs.wa.edu.au 

We understand that family circumstances can change, whether due to relocation, new opportunities or other personal reasons. If your child will be leaving SVACS, we would appreciate being notified as early as possible. Timely communication helps us plan effectively, including offering positions to families on our waitlist.

Withdrawal Policy Reminder

• One full term’s notice in writing is required for all student withdrawals.
• This equates to at least 10 school weeks’ notice (school weeks refer to term time only, not holidays).
• Withdrawal notices should be addressed to the Principal, Ms Melissa Powell, and emailed to enrolments@svacs.wa.edu.au

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Carpe diem! Seize the day!

Melissa Powell

Principal

It has also been a pleasure to welcome the new students and families joining our school community this week. I am confident they will quickly develop a strong sense of belonging, and I look forward to seeing all students thrive as we work towards a successful and rewarding term together.

Students can wear blazers with or without a jumper, and for many, they will remain part of their uniform journey into Year 7 and beyond. This new initiative celebrates the important role Year 6 students play in our school community, encouraging a strong sense of leadership, responsibility and pride as they prepare for their transition to Secondary School.

While Term 4 is our shortest term, there is certainly no shortage of learning, opportunities and significant milestones ahead. We look forward to welcoming students back, ready to engage positively, embrace the opportunities available to them and finish the school year well. 

Uniform and Personal Presentation 

Term 4 marks the return to our Formal Summer Uniform. We ask families to check uniform items and address any matters relating to uniform, grooming and personal presentation. 

Our uniform is an important part of our identity as a School community. We expect students to wear it correctly and with pride, both at School and when representing SVACS in the wider community. 

We ask families to please check that: 

• Uniform items fit correctly and are in good condition. 

• Dresses are the appropriate length. 

• Formal shoes are clean and meet School requirements (Nike Air Force shoes are not an appropriate formal leather school shoe). 

• Hair is neat, tidy and meets School expectations. 

• Jewellery meets the expectations outlined in the Uniform Guide. 

• Students have all required items for the Formal Summer Uniform. 

We appreciate parents and carers working in partnership with us to ensure students arrive at School each day meeting these expectations. Addressing uniform and grooming matters before the term commences allows students to return positively and focus on their learning. 

The 2026 SVACS Uniform Guide, together with Uniform Shop information and opening hours, can be accessed here: 

SVACS Uniform Guide and Uniform Shop 

Friday 16 October     Last Day for Year 12 ATAR students 
Monday 19 October     ACC Lightning Carnival 
Friday 23 October     Year 10 PARTY Program 
Tuesday 27 October     Year 7 Super Series 
Thursday 29 October     NEAS Yr7-9 Boys Indoor Cricket 
Thursday 5 November     Year 11 Semester 2 Examinations Commence 
Thursday 5 November     Perth Magic All Stars – Cheerleading Workshop 
Thursday 5 November     SSWA Triathlon 
Monday 9 November     Year 10 Outdoor Ed MTB Excursion 
Tuesday 10 November     Year 10 Drama Performance 
Thursday 12 November      Ethics Olympiad  
Monday 16 November     Year 7 & 10 Catch up Vaccinations 
Tuesday 17 November     Year 10 Examinations Commence 
Monday 23 November     Year 11 MMS Scuba Diving Course Commences 
Tuesday 24 November     Visual Arts and Technologies Exhibition Opening Night 
Wednesday 25 November     Dance Showcase – Night 1 
Thursday 26 November     Welcome to Year 7 Day (New and Current Students) 
Thursday 26 November     Dance Showcase – Night 2 
Tuesday 1 December     Year 10 River Cruise 
Wednesday 2 December     Year 9 Camp Commences 
Friday 11 December     Last Day for 2026 
 

One Primary and three Secondary teams participated in the annual ‘Write a Book in a Day’ competition in Term 3. In the ultimate test of teamwork, the students wrote and illustrated an entire book over a 12-hour period. Each team was given unique parameter for their story.  It was wonderful to witness the students working and creating together. 

The completed books were titled:

Secondary

• Written in Water
• Finally Home
• The Avalon

Primary

• The Lucky Desert

The books have been printed and are available for all to read in the Resource Centre. The Primary team raised an amazing $1898 through sponsorship which goes toward Kids Cancer Research. 

This social event is an opportunity to meet new people, share experiences and celebrate being a dad or father-figure around a warming winter fire. Sausage sizzle and soft drinks provided. Please let us know of any special dietary, access or other requirements. Please note that this is a child and alcohol free event. 

Please click here to RSVP using this form.

Dr Billy Garvey will be presenting a free online session for parents and caregivers on Monday 26 October. 

Billy will explore the connection between parental mental health and children's wellbeing, sharing practical, no-shame strategies to help parents navigate the challenges of parenting while looking after their own wellbeing. 

Event details

Click here to register.