VSL 2026 SCHOOL COUNCIL ELECTION – PARENT MEMBER CATEGORY

The Victorian School of Languages has received nine [9] nominations for the three [3] parent member positions available and we are now required to conduct a school council election ballot to determine who will be elected to the Victorian School of Languages school council.

The list of candidates and their candidate statements are below.

Ballots will be available and can be cast in person from Tuesday 10 March to Monday 16 March inclusive. Parents can vote at one of the VSL’s 39 centres during centre teaching hours or at the VSL Collingwood head office, 8.30am to 4.30pm.

 

CANDIDATE STATEMENTS

Candidate: Bharat Bahl

I am nominating for the VSL School Council to continue contributing meaningfully to the school community. With 22 years of professional experience in technical project delivery, leadership, and strategic problem‑solving across the Education, Telecom/IT sectors, I bring well‑developed organisational, communication, teamwork, negotiation, and leadership skills that support effective governance. My academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication, an MBA, a Cyber Security and multiple professional accreditations.

I previously served on the Kambrya College Council (2023–2024) and actively volunteer through Brentwood Park fundraising initiatives, Bunnings stall activities, and community sporting events. I am also an active member of the Victoria Badminton Club. As a parent of twin daughters in Year 10 SEAL, I am committed to supporting an inclusive, engaging, and future‑focused learning environment.

I seek to represent students, parents, and staff with integrity, creativity, and balanced decision‑making, while strengthening community involvement and enhancing student opportunities

Candidate: Goja Andric-Stevanovic

As a parent of a 15-year-old student who has attended VSL Dandenong since Grade 1, I am committed to supporting and strengthening our school community. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree with Honours in Chemistry from Monash University bringing professional experience in research and development, quality assurance / quality control within the pharmaceutical industry, as well as digital marketing.

Throughout my son’s primary school years, I actively supported teachers and school initiatives whenever required. I was proud to serve on the committee responsible for the school logo and uniform update, contributing to positive change within the school community.

I have also participated in charitable initiatives and volunteered as a mentor with The Smith Family, supporting Year 11 students in identifying career pathways and encouraging continued education.

I am standing for School Council to contribute my expertise, collaborative approach, and strong commitment to our school’s continued growth and success.

Candidate: Peter Sparkes

I am nominating for the Victorian School of Languages School Council because I am committed to high quality language education for all students.

I was born in1961, immigrated to Australia in1969, married overseas in 2003. My wife and I are proud naturalised Australians with a son and a daughter. We all speak two languages and value cultural and linguistic diversity.

I have worked in every State / Territory except South Australia, gaining insight into diverse communities. I have worked as a Draughtsman, Teacher, Police Officer, Firefighter, and served as an Army Reservist for 29 years, including a peacekeeping deployment. Throughout my children’s schooling, I attended all working bees and actively supported school activities.

I currently work as an Inspector in the Airport Fire Service, I have strong analytical, organisational, and communication skills. If elected, I will contribute thoughtfully, collaborate effectively, and represent our community with integrity.

Candidate: Raja Ravi

Raja Ravi is a VSL parent and a teacher at GWSC centre. He is a cyber security teacher at a TAFE, entrepreneur and PhD student. His vision is to co-create sustainable futures and build values in the local community. He is passionate about coaching, teaching and personal futures. His recent contributions in this field are – Primary school council member for 5 years and president for one year; Cricket coach for U12 and U14 teams in a local club; Provides mentoring and internship to fresh graduates through his organisation. Speaks 4 languages, Active in literary work, Values and embraces other cultures. In line with his vision and passion, Raja would like to contribute to VSL school council by providing inputs into Annual Implementation plan and actively engaging the community.

Candidate: Sarbinder Kaur

No statement

Candidate: Davinder Virdi

I am pleased to nominate for the parent member position on the School Council at Victorian School of Languages. As both a parent and someone working within VSL, I have a strong understanding of the school’s programs, values and the important role it plays in supporting students’ language learning and cultural connection.

I bring well-developed communication, organisation and collaborative decision-making skills through my professional experience. I am confident reviewing policies, contributing to strategic planning, and working constructively as part of a team to achieve positive outcomes for students and families.

I have actively supported the school community and value the dedication of its staff and families. I am standing for election to contribute thoughtfully to the school’s future direction, support transparent governance, and represent parent perspectives in a respectful, balanced and practical way.

Candidate: Paul Thorpe

As a parent of a Unit 1-2 student currently enrolled in distance education at VSL and another VSL student who completed VCE Japanese in 2025, I am submitting a Parent nomination to the VSL School Council. I am particularly interested in accessibility to modern language learning for all students seeking to graduate school with a VCE qualification in a modern language. I believe the acquisition of another language offers many direct and subjective benefits to the learner. At a time when it is getting more difficult for bricks and mortar schools to offer modern languages on their curriculum, the role of VSL is becoming increasingly more critical and challenging. As a local School Council member, I am familiar with the role and responsibilities of School Council and have held different member roles over the last 15 years. I hope my interest and skillset will complement the current School Council.

Candidate: Gursev Locham

No statement

Candidate: James Anastasios

No statement