Message from the Principal

Swinburne Senior Secondary College is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and high-quality learning environment that supports the academic achievement, wellbeing, and engagement of all students. As a senior secondary college, we play a vital role in preparing young people for successful post-school pathways and active participation in society.

Our school fosters a respectful and inclusive learning community where diversity is valued and all students are supported to develop confidence, independence, and a strong sense of agency. We are committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to find their voice, pursue their passions, and achieve their personal best, regardless of background or circumstance.

Teaching and learning at Swinburne Senior Secondary College is underpinned by high expectations and a focus on continuous improvement. Through the delivery of VCE and VET programs, we provide engaging and challenging curriculum pathways that respond to student interests, aspirations, and the needs of the wider community. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning, develop critical and creative thinking skills, and build the capabilities required for lifelong learning.

Our values of Respect, Responsibility, and Commitment guide all aspects of school life and inform our approach to student wellbeing, behaviour, and engagement. We work in partnership with parents and carers to support positive learning outcomes and to ensure students feel safe, connected, and supported.

Swinburne Senior Secondary College is committed to upholding the principles of Australian democracy and to promoting fairness, equity, and inclusion. Through strong relationships, high-quality teaching, and targeted student support, we strive to ensure all students are well prepared for further education, training, or employment.

I am proud of the collective efforts of our students, staff, and families in creating a positive and inclusive school culture that supports improved outcomes for all learners.

Diarmaid Fennessy

(Acting) Principal

About Us

Swinburne Senior Secondary College is a senior-only government secondary school located in Hawthorn, providing a unique and inclusive learning environment for students across metropolitan Melbourne. Within walking distance of Glenferrie Station and Glenferrie Road, the college is highly accessible by public transport and closely connected to the local community.

We are committed to ensuring student wellbeing, engagement, and learning outcomes sit at the centre of everything we do, enabling every young person to feel safe, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Our college offers a comprehensive senior curriculum, including VCE, VCE Vocational Major (VM), and VET programs, with strong pathways across the Arts, Humanities, and Sciences. Learning programs are designed to be challenging, purposeful, and responsive to student needs, supporting both academic and applied pathways that lead to further education, training, or employment.

Student wellbeing is foundational to learning at Swinburne Senior Secondary College. We foster a kind, respectful, and inclusive culture where positive relationships, student voice, and high expectations promote confidence, motivation, and achievement. Strong teacher–student relationships and targeted wellbeing supports enable students to take ownership of their learning and achieve their personal best.

We are proud to provide students with access to exceptional resources that support deep and authentic learning. Our close proximity to Swinburne University of Technology enhances educational opportunities and strengthens pathways to tertiary study, industry, and the wider community.

As a senior secondary college, we offer a learning environment tailored specifically to young adults, characterised by high expectations, personalised support, and a focus on continuous improvement in learning outcomes. Students from across Melbourne choose Swinburne Senior Secondary College for its supportive culture, accessibility, and breadth of opportunity.

Guided by our core values of Respect, Responsibility, and Commitment, Swinburne Senior Secondary College provides an aspirational learning environment where students are supported to grow academically, socially, and personally, and to make a positive contribution to their communities.

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