Principal Message
Dear Families and Community,
As we reach the midpoint of the school year, I want to pause and reflect on the many moments of pride and progress we’ve shared as a school community. This term has brought with it a strong sense of connection and purpose, qualities that are central to the culture we continue to build together at Elisabeth Murdoch College.
Last week, we had the privilege of coming together for a flag raising ceremony to mark National Reconciliation Week. This was a deeply respectful and meaningful event that invited us all to consider the importance of truth telling, cultural understanding, and walking together towards reconciliation. It was especially powerful to see our students leading the ceremony, sharing stories and reflections that connect us to each other and to Country.
Our school’s Reconciliation Action Plan continues to guide our work in creating a more inclusive and culturally safe environment. It outlines the practical steps we are taking to honour and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, and we invite our community to learn more about it via the Narragunnawali website.
In that same spirit, I’m incredibly proud to share that Steph Raike, our Head of Wellbeing and Support, in conjunction with Koorie Engagement Support Officers Brian Walker and Alan Johnson, has been recognised with the Secretary’s Marrung Award for her leadership of the Koorie Emerging Leaders in Schools program. This is an outstanding initiative that empowers Koorie students from across the Bayside Peninsula with leadership skills, cultural connection, and a strong sense of voice and identity within their schools. Congratulations Steph, this is a well-deserved recognition of your dedication and care.
We also celebrated another special moment in our calendar with the Athletics Carnival held on May 13, where Kurunda took out the win with great enthusiasm and team spirit. It was fantastic to see students across the College participate so energetically, support each other, and enjoy the day as a community. Congratulations to everyone who got involved!
Looking ahead, Semester Two begins on Tuesday 10 June. This marks a new chapter for students to reflect on their progress so far and take confident steps forward in their learning. Whether it is setting new goals, revisiting routines, or simply approaching each day with greater intention, there is much to be gained in making a purposeful start.
At Elisabeth Murdoch College, we are proud of the learning environment we have built, one where every student is known, challenged, and supported. Our staff continue to use evidence-based practices such as clear learning intentions, effective feedback, explicit teaching of literacy in all subjects, and differentiation to support students in engaging deeply with their learning. But we also know that learning doesn’t happen in isolation. It is shaped by strong, respectful partnerships between home and school.
We are also beginning the important work of course counselling, as students start thinking about their 2026 subject choices. This is a key time for students to explore their interests, consider future pathways, and make decisions that align with their goals. We encourage families to take an active role in this process. Ask questions, attend information sessions, and support your young person in thinking about where they are headed.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support. We are proud of what we have achieved so far this year, and we are looking forward to everything still to come.
Warm regards,
Terry Kiat
Assistant Principal.