Secondary News

Dear Families,

The first half of the term has been very busy with numerous activities and events, including excursions and sport. Please see below for reports on these events.

The students are well and truly into the learning in their subjects and we are very pleased with how quickly they have settled into new routines.

Key dates for Term 1

• Monday 11th March- Labour Day Public Holiday
• Tuesday 12th March- Year 7 Volleyball 
• Wednesday 13th March- Friday 15th March- NAPLAN for Years 7 & 9.
• Thursday 14th March- Year 8 Volleyball
• Monday 18th March - PTFA Pie Day and Free Dress day
• Tuesday 19th March- Friday 22nd March- Year 7 Camp 
• Thursday 21st March- Harmony Day
• Saturday 23rd March - Open Day
• Tuesday 26th March - Man Cave and Big Sister Incursion Years 9 & 10
• Thursday 28th March- Checkpoint reports released to families
• Thursday 28th March- Last day of Term 1 

Term Awards

The Secondary school will again be presenting students with term awards in each year level, which will be presented at the end of each term.  These awards are to acknowledge positive choices and efforts of our student cohort in each year level, separate to our Learn, Care and Achieve awards that are given at our Thanksgiving Services. 

Areas of focus in 2024 are:

• Wears College uniform correctly 
• Engages positively with peers and staff
• Demonstrates resilient behaviours
• Demonstrates enthusiasm and a keen interest in learning

School TV - Understanding Adolescence

Adolescence is the transitional stage of development that is usually associated with the teenage years. In 2018, the Australian Curriculum Assessment Authority, redefined adolescence as affecting young people aged between 10-24 years. During this time, they experience rapid physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth which affects how teenagers feel, think, make decisions and interact with the world around them.

During adolescence, a child's brain can be considered as being “under-construction”. The rate at which this progresses will vary depending on the individual and also their gender. As a result, some parents may view adolescence as stressful or difficult. However, it does not need to be. Setting boundaries, implementing consistent monitoring and maintaining a strong and loving connection will help families adjust during this time.

It is also an important time to keep the communication lines open through clear and age appropriate conversations. Speak openly about changes that they are experiencing and be conscious of their mental health as many of the conditions people confront in adulthood, can begin to manifest in adolescence.

In this edition of SchoolTV, adult carers can learn how to guide and best support their young person as they transition through adolescence.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school counsellor for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the Understanding Adolescence edition of SchoolTV https://lakeside.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/understanding-adolescence

Yours sincerely

Mrs Joanne Rothwell                                                                                          Mrs Amanda Trewin

Head of Middle School                                                                                      Head of Senior School

Luna Park turns it on for our physics students in 2024

Atop the Ferris Wheel some of our VCE physic students were afforded an excellent panoramic view of Port Phillip bay as a small part of the annual Vic Physics Luna Park Day held on Wednesday March 6. Others caught only glimpses of the bay, seeing it from different angles and directions as they swirled around on the Power Surge ride. The weather was warm, conditions clear and students experienced Melbourne’s autumn weather at its best.

Preparing for their coming VCE assessment, they completed several worksheets with calculations pertaining to the physics of the rides in the park, calculating forces, velocities and energy values for each ride. An added bonus for the day was the opportunity to visit a very large marquee within the grounds, that was promoting careers with the Australian Defence Force. Two soldiers and two pilots were in attendance. They welcomed our students aboard the simulated cockpit of a modern jet fighter. A Virtual Reality headset was worn and students used actual rudder and throttle controls to ‘fly’ the plane.It was also a great opportunity for our students to be amongst the many physics students from the greater metropolitan area and around the state.

Mr Nevil Schultz

Physics teacher

Connecting to Country

On 22nd February, our Year 7s travelled to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne to experience the 'Connecting to Country' workshop. They learned about our First Nations people and the importance of their stewardship of Country. 

They also had the chance to practice some traditional weaving and turning flax lily leaves into snake whistles. It was a very hot day, but we still had a great time experiencing the beauty of the Botanic Gardens!

Mr Josh Rosaia

Carbon Futures

On the 4th of March, our Year 9 students participated in a program called 'Carbon Futures' run by the Royal Botanic Gardens. Students delved into the study of biomes and food security in Humanities this term and were given the opportunity to interact with real-world ecosystems at the Botanic Gardens which couldn't have been more timely or relevant. 

From various oak trees to delicate ferns, each plant told a story of adaptation and resilience within its biome. The 'Carbon Futures' program provided a hands-on experience that transcended traditional classroom boundaries. By actively planting their own green companions, students were empowered to create positive change in the face of climate challenges. It wasn't merely about planting; it was about fostering a deep sense of responsibility and empathy towards our environment. Through this immersive experience, students witnessed first hand the delicate balance between human activities and the natural world, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices for the future of our planet.

Ms Rochelle Rabba

2024 DAV In-school Competition

Our Grade A debate team did a great job in their first debate of the 2024 DAV In-school Competition against St. Margaret's. Even though it was not a win this time, their hard work and spirit shine through with the team feeling confident moving into the coming rounds. Watch this space for more updates as the competition progresses!