Senior School: COG in Motion

Reflecting our shared commitment to Community, Ownership and Growth. Celebrating student voice, leadership, learning, and the collective effort that drives our senior school forward.

A new beginning for 2026… SENIOR SUNRISE

Our Year 12 students began the year together, welcoming the sunrise as a symbol of fresh starts and endless possibilities. It was a special moment to celebrate how far they’ve come, reflect on the goals they achieved, and set new intentions for the year ahead.

Surrounded by friends and the promise of a new chapter, students shared hopes, dreams, and aspirations for their final year, a time filled with growth, challenge, and unforgettable memories.

“We had our senior sunrise on January 29th, the first day back for VCE-VM and the first full day for VCE students. We all arrived at life saviours club at frankston beach between 6:00am - 6:15. When students began to arrive Makayla Doyle and Charlotte Doyle brought some balloons that made ‘26, they also brought a digital camera, some glasses that said “class 26” and also had a made sign that read ‘senior sunrise’. It was a really nice way to start off our final year and a beautiful memory we all shared together. While friends were taking photos other people were dipping their feet in the water. From the angle we were on we never saw the sunrise; it never took a moment away from anyone. It was truly beautiful to see how everyone was having a good time and a beautiful way to celebrate us and what we have achieved and to show how we are still together through the hardship of the year ahead. While at the beach people were chatting with each other about what we are excited for this year and some people would talk about the goals we had, and it was a great time to see each other after the holidays and get a chat about what everyone got up to” Alex Canepa

Willum Wurrain Excursion

As part of Unit 3 Literacy and developing an understanding of non-profit organisations, VCE VM students recently visited Willum Wurrain, where they participated in a powerful cultural learning experience that deepened their understanding of the social issues that continue to affect Indigenous communities today. Students were respectfully guided through traditional practices, with the boys taking part in Men’s Business and the girls in Women’s Business — spaces that encouraged reflection, cultural connection, and learning through story and shared experience. The group also participated in a meaningful water ceremony, which highlighted the importance of Country, healing, and respect for cultural traditions. The visit provided students with an opportunity to listen, learn, and reflect, building greater awareness, empathy, and appreciation for culture, community, and ongoing resilience.

Swim Sports 2026

An awesome day was spent at Pines Forest Aquatic Center for the annual swim carnival, where senior students came together to celebrate sport, teamwork, and school spirit. The students marked their final carnival in style, embracing the day with fun, creativity, friendly competition, and plenty of laughter. Highlights included thrilling boat races, fast-paced paddleboard challenges, and exciting relays that had everyone cheering. Beyond the competition, the carnival was a wonderful opportunity for students to connect, showcase their skills, and make lasting memories as they wrapped up their final swim carnival at McClelland College.

Staff vs Year 12 Student Event – Water Polo

The annual Staff vs Year 12 student Water Polo match was a highlight of the Swimming Carnival, showcasing strong participation, competitive spirit and plenty of good-natured rivalry. Despite the students overwhelmingly outnumbering the staff, the match was played with great intensity and enthusiasm from both sides.

The Year 12 students struck first, taking an early lead and maintaining pressure for much of the contest. The staff responded with composure and teamwork, gradually working their way back into the game. Momentum shifted following an inspirational half-time address from College Principal Laura Spence, setting the stage for a tense second half.

In a thrilling finish, the staff surged late to secure a dramatic 6–5 victory in the dying seconds.

As a result of the win, the teachers now lead the Staff vs Student Cup 1–0, with the event once again proving to be a fantastic celebration of school spirit and positive connections between staff and students.

VCE Senior Success Day

Our Year 12 VCE students participated in a Senior Success Day on Wednesday 4th February, designed to support a strong and confident start to their final year of schooling. This full-day experience focused on building resilience, strengthening study habits, clarifying VCE expectations, and supporting student wellbeing, pathways and future careers.

Students travelled by bus from McClelland College to Monash University Clayton campus. Throughout the day, students engaged in a range of structured sessions including high-impact study strategies, growth mindset, healthy habits, team building, and an interactive Q&A with past students. These sessions supported students to establish positive routines and a clear focus for Year 12.

Students returned to school by 5:00pm, where the day concluded with reflection activities, an aspirational “letter to self,” and additional sessions in the Senior Centre. A pizza dinner was provided, with the event finishing at 6:45pm. The day played an important role in setting expectations and supporting student success in 2026.

COG Newsletter

Community, Ownership and Growth

Issue 2, 2026 · 27 Feb 2026

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