Celebrating VCE & VCE Vocational Major Class of 2025

2025-12-01

The Gordon celebrated the achievements of our VCE and VCE Vocational Major students on 27 November at The Davidson, our teaching restaurant. It was a proud moment for students, families and staff as we recognised a group who have shown real resilience, focus and drive.

Most of this cohort began their secondary school during COVID-19, facing unique challenges that ultimately led them to The Gordon. Their perseverance through these circumstances makes this milestone even more significant.

Chief Executive Officer, Mr Joe Ormeno and Ms Amanda Achterberg, Executive Director – Education Excellence, congratulated the graduating classes and reflected on what this achievement means.

“Today we’re not just celebrating results on a page; we’re celebrating the effort, perseverance and dreams that have brought you here, and the futures you’re stepping into, ” Mr Ormeno said. 

“Your journey has been unique. You’ve faced challenges and worked through them with strength and adaptability. Today is proof of your determination and thirst for knowledge.” 

Image of a group of proud VCE students and parents celebrating graduation in The Gordons Davidson Restaurant.

Whether you move into further education, begin your career or explore a new passion, always look for the next thing you can learn and the next skill you can build. The world is changing quickly and your ability to adapt and grow is one of your greatest strengths.

--Ms Amanda Achterberg, Executive Director – Education Excellence

Graduating students are now moving forward with diverse ambitions including university study, continuing courses at The Gordon, work and travel.

This year’s keynote speaker, Brooke Coxon, returned as a proud Gordon alumni. Brooke completed VCE in 2011 and is now studying a Bachelor of Psychology while working in community support for Meli.

“Learning isn’t the same for everyone and that’s where The Gordon helped me. My teacher believed in me and asked a real, life-defining question: What do you want your future to look like? That gave me the clarity and determination to take the next step.” Brooke said.

Brooke reminded graduates, “If you ever doubt yourself, just take the first step, because your story is still being written.”

The evening also highlighted that graduates are now part of something bigger - The Gordon alumni community, a network of people making their mark across our region and beyond.

Another motivating keynote speaker was Craig White, a member of the Army Reserves, who spoke about the Australian Defence Force and the Battle of Long Tan before presenting the awards.

Senior College Principal Mr Gavin Wake closed the evening with a simple message:

Stay connected, share your experiences, and inspire those who follow in your footsteps. Share your story. You’ll inspire others, just as you’ve inspired us.

--Senior College Principal Mr Gavin Wake


VCE Awards

  • High Achievement: Anika Kelly, Sienna Torney, Cody McKay
  • Personal Growth and Commitment to Studies: Macielee Duggan, Lucy Monk, Jayce Kocis
  • The celebration also recognised the final year of teaching for Cathy Lightfoot, who has been with The Gordon for 25 years and teaching continuously for more than 40 years.

VCE Vocational Major Awards

  • Community Award: Leonie Tromba
  • Industry Award: Philippa Rupapera
  • Staff Award: Jackson Wyley and Hannah Lachmund
  • Staff Excellence Award: Toby Combridge
  • Australian Defence Force Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award: Toby Combridge
  • Australian Defence Force Innovators Award: Will Taylor-Pitt

Congratulations to the Class of 2025. We couldn’t be prouder of each one of you.