Enhancing our school culture
Building a Culture of High Expectations at CSC
At Castlemaine Secondary College, we are proud of our shared school values: Aspiration, Respect, and Empathy. These values guide everything we do—both in and outside the classroom—as we work together to build a school culture where every student is supported to do their best and thrive.
As we begin Term 2, our focus is on re-establishing clear and consistent expectations across the school. This is part of our commitment to ensuring all students feel safe, supported and ready to learn.
What We’re Focusing on This Term
During Term 2, staff will be supporting students to:
- Be prepared for each class with the correct materials and mindset.
- Be punctual, arriving to class on time and ready to engage.
- Remain in class for the full duration of the lesson, making the most of every learning opportunity.
These expectations are simple, but powerful. They help create calm, productive classrooms where every student can focus, feel respected, and get the most out of their time at school.
Our Approach: SWPBS + Berry Street
We use the School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework to clearly communicate and celebrate positive behaviour across the school. This means:
- Setting consistent expectations that are understood by all students and staff.
- Actively teaching and reinforcing positive behaviours aligned with our school values.
- Acknowledging and rewarding students who show Aspiration, Respect and Empathy in their daily actions.
Alongside this, the Berry Street Education Model continues to be a key part of our approach. This model helps us support students' emotional wellbeing, build strong relationships, and create a school environment that is both calm and caring. When students feel seen, heard, and safe, they are more likely to meet high expectations—and more able to achieve their personal best.
Mobile Phones and Learning Focus
In line with the Victorian Government’s Mobile Phone Policy, students are required to keep their phones securely stored in their locker and out of use during school hours. This also includes the use of Air Pods. At CSC, we support this policy because we know that limiting distractions is essential to creating a focused learning environment.
Removing phones from the classroom:
- Supports strong learning habits by reducing interruptions and improving attention and engagement.
- Reinforces a culture of respect and responsibility, where students are fully present in their learning.
- Helps students build resilience and independence, learning how to manage their time and focus without relying on digital devices.
Some students with a special medication condition may have an exemption to the phone policy. We appreciate families reinforcing this message at home and encouraging students to use school hours as a time to connect with learning and face-to-face socialisation with peers - free from digital distractions.
How Families Can Help
Families play an important role in reinforcing high expectations. You can support your child by:
- Talking about the importance of being on time, prepared and respectful.
- Encouraging them to take pride in their learning and take responsibility for their behaviour.
- Reaching out to your child’s mentor teacher if you need support or have concerns.
Together, we can continue to build a school community that is aspirational, respectful and empathetic—where all students are held to high standards and supported every step of the way.
CSC Leadership Team