Principal page 

Dear families and friends,

What a busy and exciting Term Three it has been at Merino Consolidated School! Our students and staff have been involved in a wonderful range of learning experiences, events and activities throughout the term. A particular highlight has been our School Review, which has provided a valuable opportunity to celebrate our strengths, reflect on our progress and identify priorities for our future growth. Alongside the review, our students have continued to embrace new challenges, learning opportunities and community events, making it another very positive term at our school. 

Kathleen Milliken Kinder from Casterton Visit

Recently, we had a lovely visit from the Kinder children at Casterton. Mr Potter welcomed everyone and helped lead a wonderful morning of learning and fun. They read ‘Room on the Broom’ by Julia Donaldson, then designed and created their own magical brooms. Mrs McDonald followed this with a fun music game that had everyone engaged and joining in. The kinder students finished the morning with a play on the playground, where our Merino students were fantastic leaders and role models for their kinder buddies. It was wonderful to see their kindness, confidence and leadership skills in action!

A Fantastic Day of Science Learning at BioLAB!

Thomas, Xavier, Argie and I enjoyed a fantastic day of science learning at BioLAB, located at Belmont High School in Geelong on the 4th of September. It was certainly an early start, with the boys meeting Guthrie’s bus in Coleraine at 5.30am and me joining them in Hamilton at 6.00am. 

We were joined by students from Coleraine Primary School, Macarthur Primary School, Penshurst Primary School and Branxholme Wallacedale Community School. Throughout the day, our students explored the fascinating question, “What makes you, you?” They learned about different parts of the human body, became heart experts and asked lots of thoughtful questions. One of the highlights was learning about the process of extracting DNA from strawberries in a real science laboratory! It was a wonderful day filled with hands-on learning, curiosity and the opportunity to make new friends. 

Book Week Celebrations 

We welcomed Richard from Portland Aluminum and his grandson to read a story as part of Book Week celebrations. We even received the book 'The Colours of Home' to keep. Thank you to United Way for organising this as part of their building relationships in the community.

We also searched for book treasures in the library then had a 'Where's Wally' treasure hunt outside. It was a big hit! Some very tricky hiding spots. Students, staff and some of our families dressed up in book characters. The costumes looked amazing and matched their book character. Special thanks to Paddington Bear, Thelma the unicorn and the Old Lady who swallowed a fly for their efforts. 

Staff Leave in Term Four 

Miss Purnell will miss some Fridays due to her previous commitment to Baimbridge College as a VCE Exams Supervisor. Mr Potter will be working all the Fridays that Miss P is away. 

Mrs McDonald will be taking six days of personal leave from Monday 26th October and returning to school on Wednesday 4th Novmeber. Mrs Carolynn Murray and Mr Lee Gibbons will teaching the senior class plus some time with me. 

We look forward to seeing everyone back at school on Monday the 5th of October.

Lisa Ferrier