WELC & International Student Reports
Ms Debby Morgan & Ms Summer Bao
Westall Secondary College
Message from the International Coordinator and WELC Coordinator
WELC Update
We are half-way through Term 3 already and our students have already had a very busy term. We have had 22 new students join our Language Centre and are currently running 5 classes with a total of 55 students.
Students who will move to Westall Secondary College after the Language Centre have attended information sessions and an expo to learn more about the subjects offered at Westall and what possible courses they can study. Over the next week, students and parents will need to discuss the possibilities and make their final selections.
Our new students started swimming lessons at Monash University last week. It is good to see students learn a new skill which will help keep them safe in Australia. Students not going swimming are doing an alternative program. Last week, students did a lego activity. In groups they chose a role of architect, supplier or builder and tried to complete lego sets. This activity was a great opportunity for students to practice their English skills in a more relaxed environment.
WELC students also joined with Westall Secondary students at the Athletics Day in Week 4. Most of our students participated in at least one event and several students placed in the top 3 for their age group. We congratulate all these students!
Coming up, we have Parent Teacher interviews on 26 August. Many families have already booked in, but we encourage all families to book a time to meet their child’s teacher. We will also provide Progress Reports at this meeting. Students will be able to see their current English levels and compare this to the goal for their age group.
This week many competitions will be advertised in WELC including a Writing competition, Speech contest and Spelling Bee. We encourage all students to participate and use this is an opportunity to challenge themselves and improve their English.
Ms Debby Morgan
WELC Coordinator
WELC STUDENTS IMMERSED IN AMAZING ELECTIVES
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“ WELC-ies” (WELC students) have a number of exciting electives to choose from and are diving into them with great excitement and fun! Not only are they frolicking at Monash University pools, but they’re also taught the art of swimming lessons and water safety. There’s classroom art abounding as well! The art of learning drawing from Ms. Anna K., the art of dance with Ms. Stephanie S., and the art of drama and theatre from Ms. Hambley-Mason, and Ms. Debbie guided students in music classes.
| If that wasn’t enough, in sports Mr. Udara and students are tossing it around on the field. And if you really want to cook something up, then see Ms. Chow. She and her students indulge in cooking classes with a real hunger for learning.
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Recap of what s happening with the WELC Students
We are now in Week 5 of the term, and just like that, students are already halfway through! The new arrivals in WELC have settled in well and made friends across the school, both with peers who share their first language and with those who speak other languages. It has been wonderful to see this, as it helps build their confidence in speaking English.
In Week 4, students also attended the Athletics Day alongside the college students, participating in a wide range of events including high jump, hurdles, relay races, javelin, and discus. Several students achieved top awards and represented WELC proudly.
WELC teachers were also in charge of running the novelty events, which had a fantastic turnout. It was amazing to see both WELC and college students joining in and contributing to such a successful day.
Mr Udara Gamage
WELC Classroom Teacher
WELC COOKING ELECTIVE
In the cooking elective this term, WELC students learn many new skills like reading and following simple recipes, identifying utensils and ingredients, measuring ingredients accurately and basic cutting techniques like chopping and slicing.
This term we made chocolate truffles, cheese twists, chocolate chip cookies and fried rice. The students were very happy to share their food with family members and friends in WELC.
Ebrahim and Son
Ebrahim and Son
Zekai and Bill
Zekai and Bill
Saeed and Sen
Saeed and Sen
Nyalew and Son
Nyalew and Son
Diamond
Diamond
Ms Esther Chow
WELC Classroom Teacher
International Student Program
As we look back over the past few months, it’s been another vibrant and memorable time for our International Student Program.
End of Term 2 – Treetops Adventure
We wrapped up last term with an exciting excursion to Treetops Adventure in Belgrave. Students challenged themselves on high ropes courses, zip lines, and obstacle challenges, all while enjoying the fresh forest air. It was wonderful to see everyone supporting one another and stepping outside their comfort zones — the smiles said it all!
July Birthday Celebrations
At the start of Term 3, we came together to celebrate our July birthdays. Students were able to invite up to two friends as special guests, which made the event extra special. The afternoon was filled with laughter, cake, and great company, making it a joyful occasion for everyone involved.
New Student Welcome Lunch
We were delighted to welcome our new international students this term with a delicious lunch and a series of fun, interactive activities designed to help students connect and make new friends. A big thank you to Ms Debby Morgan, Mr Peter Tawala and Mr Luciano Murray for joining us — your presence and support helped create a warm, inclusive atmosphere for our newest arrivals.
Important Notices for Parents and Guardians
Please take note of the following updates and reminders: For Holiday Travel Plans – Check Term Dates First
Please make sure to check the official term dates before booking flights or making travel plans for your children. This ensures they do not miss important school activities or assessments.
It’s been a fantastic start to the term, and we look forward to more shared experiences, learning, and fun in the months ahead.
Ms Summer Bao
International Coordinator