Well done on Term 1

As the first term comes to a close, I want to take the opportunity to congratulate each Middle School student on their excellent start to the year. It has been fantastic to see each student undertake the new challenges presented to them this year with energy and determination.

It has been a really energised start to the 2025 school year, with Year 7 Camp, Year 8 Camp, Live Life, Swimming Carnival, Cross Country, Morrisby testing, NAPLAN, Connect Days and many other opportunities for learning and connections. I wish every member of our Middle School community a restful term break, and look forward to seeing what we accomplish together in Term 2.

Year 7 Camp

On Monday 17 February, 21 staff members and 200 students departed Mont Albert North for three days of fun, adventure and bonding at Alexandra Adventure Resort, where students were able to challenge themselves to work towards demonstrating the values of our school motto “Excellence through Endeavour”.

Students pushed themselves outside their comfort zones and help them deepen and extend their bonds and friendships beyond those made in their classes by completing by participating in a wide range of activities, including: the high ropes course, rock climbing, the giant swing, flying fox, swimming in the pool, and raft building (just to name a few!).

A highlight of this year’s Camp would have to be the talent show, where the Year 7 cohort showed off their exceptional talents, including singing, dancing and comedy.

The students all embodied our core school values and the School Wide Positive Behaviours Support values through their kindness, compassion and willingness to “give it a go” and push themselves outside their comfort zones.

I have included some reflections from Koonung students on their camp experiences below. Please take a moment to read these.

I’d like to thank the staff that attended Year 7 Camp, and supported our students by building incredibly strong relationships with them over the course of the camp. I’d also like to acknowledge Lauren Hughes and Lydia Tomic, for the work they did, both in the lead up to, and during the camp itself, to create the best experiences for the students.

Year 7 Reflections of Camp:

Sabrina Keng 7F

My favourite part of camp was the talent show. From Devan singing die with a smile to 7H's amazing apt and we can't forget Rosa's amazing acapella of chandelier. Everyone did so well, and I enjoyed every millisecond of that talent quest! I cant even start to imagine the courage it took to these people perform in front of over 200 people!

My proudest moment was telling myself it was ok to be scared of rock climbing and I should always give new things a try. Even though I was terrified I still made it to the top! By the time I went back down my mouth was smiling cheek to cheek!

The funniest moment was when I killed a humungous mosquito with my sock, Rosalie was shocked.

I mad so many new friends and I became friends with the other Sabrina!

Serena Keng 7G

Year 7 camp was a blast for all students. Flying fox, high ropes, canoeing, laser tag and more where all included in the camp activities. Personally, my favourite activity was orienteering, even though it was challenging but fun, my team managed to finish early ultimately winning first place.

Dozens of people loved canoeing and acting like pirates, and some loved climbing through the high ropes course but we all know Ms. Thomas didn’t love it. The Talent quest was really a loved one too and 7H had a surprise dance performance at the end of the night.

I remember how fun camp was for teachers, students and visitors such as our peer mentors and Mr. McNeil. I couldn’t ask for a better camp in year 7!

Zac Patralis 7A

Dear Students

Have you ever wondered what Alexandra Adventure Resort is like? Would you like to know what activities there is? Well, I have a whole report about it. What activities do you like? Would you like to be in a pool? Or go on a calming night walk. I have a list of few activities we did on Alexandra Adventure Resort. We have done the:

Flying Fox
Kayaking
The Night Walk
Lazer Tag
Outside Pool
High Ropes
Low Ropes
Gaga Ball
Foods

And so many more. But we can’t forget breakfast, lunch and dinner. The meals they made were delicious. We also had little snack we ate after an activity. You will most likely not get sick over their food. One of my favourite dishes were the chicken and baked potatoes.

The cabin rooms were so packed with the beds. My cabin mates were so funny. Too bad I can’t get all that sleep back from those 3 days. I really liked the staff and my camp administrator. Mr Beer is the best!

The camp is over all amazing and Koonung should always go there. Those 3 days were amazing, and I would love to go there again. I’ll miss Alexandra Adventure Resort.

Year 8 Camp

This year saw the resurgence of the Year 8 Camp. And what a camp it was! Year 8 Camp this year involved students participating in a ‘Survivor’-themed camp, with tribal councils, tribal flags and challenges to score points of their tribes.

It was fantastic to see students push themselves beyond their comfort zones, and expand their growth mindset to see what they can truly do when they put their minds to the tasks.

A huge thank you to all the staff who attended and supported the Year 8 cohort with their adventures, in particular Claire Murray and Alistair Tuffnell for leading this camp. Please read some student reflections below.

Excellence Through Endeavour Awards

On 3 April, the first whole Middle School Assembly for 2025 took place. During this assembly, students enjoyed a presentation from Joel Tobin-White (class of 2011) and his journey as a runner.

The Middle School team also presented the first “Excellence Through Endeavour” awards for the year. The recipients of these awards have been selected based off their conduct and application to school life across Term 1, including their demonstration of the school values. Well done to the following recipients:

Year 7

Zahra Bakht
Stefan Licinar
Elsie Martin
Matthew Mou
James Wee

Year 8

Ellein Chua
Mishika Gunagunti
Nathan Hanslow
Tanmayi Jay Shankar
Jason Papastratis

Year 9

Myren Furi
Emma Green
Edison Le
Ambra Mazza
Aaron Vanchipura

Mat Delaney

Head of Middle School

Mathew.delaney@education.vic.gov.au

YEAR 7 SEE@K Melbourne Zoo Excursion

Lewis Tan 7C

On 21/3/25 the school hosted a Melbourne Zoo excursion for both SEE@k classes, I was a part of it. The day started with a rainy morning, despite the rain, we went to the lion gorge part of the zoo. We saw Snow Leopards, Dingoes, Pythons and Tigers, although Tasmanian Devils and Lions were nowhere to be seen.

After the Lion Gorge tour, we had our classroom session with Simon. In that session, we looked at different animal skulls and had to guess what animal it was looking at its structural adaptation. Later we went to the marine area to look at seals and attempt to spot the different structural adaptations of a seal.

When the session ended, my class, 7C, went to the Gorilla Rainforest. We had to go in separate groups and stay quiet as a gorilla had just passed away and the gorillas were incredibly agitated. Later we had some free time and me and my friend, Shekar, were going to the snow leopard talk and learned that snow leopards only weigh 30-40kg!

Yun Zhao and Sabrina Jong 7D

The purpose of the excursion was to learn how to classify animals and understand the adaptations they have to help them survive in their environments, as well as the threats they face. We explored the various ways animals are equipped to survive in harsh conditions, such as the unique bone structures and adaptations of different species.

Throughout the excursion, we learned that animals have developed special adaptations to cope with their surroundings. For example, koalas have eyes in the front of their head to help them see better when climbing trees, and orangutans have strong hands and feet to grip things tightly. We also learned about the threats that animals face in the wild, such as deforestation, and how conservation programs are helping to protect them.

One of the highlights was seeing the orangutans at the Melbourne Zoo. It was amazing to watch them use their long arms to swing across the bars with ease. A memorable moment was when one of the orangutans licked the window and even picked its nose, which made us all laugh! Another fun moment was during our free time at the zoo, where we visited the Butterfly House. I joked about being a "pretty princess," and to my surprise, a butterfly landed on my hand, which was a magical experience. 🦋✨

Devan Erajh Gunaratne

We arrived at the Melbourne Zoo after an hour drive. It was raining lightly. But it was annoying at most. And it was wet at least. 10:30am, We went into a hut and learned about animal adaptions and skulls from the zookeeper named Simon. After we went to the wild sea.

12:30pm We went of and our own with friends Keo and Kendrick. Some highlights: The Japanese section with the koi, the zoo maze section with the bird, emu, koala and more, the reptile area (the snakes are horrifying!), the kids’ section with the Komodo dragon. They are the main ones that I LOVED!!!!!!! Overall, I loved this excursion and wish to go again!!

Ryan Chen 7C

On the 21st of March (my class)7C and 7D went on an excursion to the zoo. Some highlights of the day were meeting orangutans and instead of them just sitting around they were jumping around and being active. Another highlight for me was being able to explore what I wanted to learn about instead of following a guide. Some things I learnt about was learning exactly how animals developed and how they survived all these years in these harsh environments e.g. Learning how snow leopards had big paws to act as boots in the snow, or learning how giraffes had 2 ossicones to help them control the heat of themselves. Before the excursion I chose to research about the endangered species of “Baw Baw Frog” The information I got from this research was that they were endangered because of an infectious disease named “Chytrid Fungus”. Some other things affecting the Baw Baw Frog’s survival is recreational projects made by humans e.g. Parking Lots, Wood Harvesting and Climate Change.

Miss Claire Murray

Year 8 Coordinator

Health, Physical Education and Science Teacher

Melbourne Museum Excursion – Year 9 SEE@K Science

On Tuesday, 11 March, the Year 9 SEE@K class visited the Melbourne Museum to explore the evolution of ecosystems and the environment through the lens of natural selection. We had the chance to examine a variety of resources, including fossils of common ancestors from different animal species. By studying the anatomy of these fossils, we were able to understand how animals have evolved into the forms we see today.

During the excursion, each group was assigned a different scientific question to address, which we later presented on a poster at the end of the gallery tour. For example, my group’s focus was on Adaptations. Each group was also given specific animals related to their assigned topic. For instance, we studied the fossilized remains of ancient whales and learned about their behaviours, such as their preference for living near vegetation-covered waters and their instinct to hide from danger. Over time, as these ancient whales spent more time swimming in water, their physical structure adapted to become better suited for swimming. Fossil records show that whales not only nurse their young, but earlier whale fossils also feature small, rear limbs that are believed to be remnants of legs, suggesting that whales evolved from land-dwelling animals to aquatic creatures.

After completing our group projects, we had the opportunity to explore other exhibits. Some of the highlights included the Forest Walk gallery, which showcased various animal species; the 600 Million Years gallery, where we admired sparkling crystals; and the Dinosaur Walk, where we saw the fascinating Triceratops: Fate of the Dinosaurs fossil.

Kara Tan 9D

Lydia Tomic

Mathematics Teacher | Excellence & High Ability Practice Leader

Year 8 Camp - Kinglake Forest Adventures (17-19 March, 2025)

Our Year 8 students recently embarked on a memorable journey to Kinglake Forest Adventures, where they had the opportunity to challenge themselves, build teamwork, and gain invaluable life skills. Set amidst the stunning natural beauty of Kinglake, the camp was themed around the TV show “Survivor”, where students were allocated into tribes with buffs, flags and chants.

Throughout the camp, students participated in a variety of engaging activities designed to foster leadership, resilience, and collaboration. From thrilling adventure courses to reflective personal growth workshops, every moment was designed to help students push their boundaries and learn more about themselves and their peers.

One of the standout features of the camp was Tribal Council on night 2, where students voted for the best potential leader and most developed. Congratulations to the students below who received the most votes:

Most Developed:

Will Harris
Mishika Guniganti
Silvan Pei
Marko Hou
Max Taylor
Cooper Oliver
Daniel Liang
Olive Brodie
Jasmine Brewin
Eboni Kwok
Tashi Chng
Jalen Yong
Cooper Wightman

Best Potential Leader:

Frankie Wines
Sienna Pugliese
Aidan Green
Archer McNeil
Hailey Santos
Uki Nasu
Mehrbod Pousti
Shanelle Heng
Armita Samaris
Brian Cheung
Ruyi Lin
Gisele Freiha

Overall, the Year 8 camp was an inspiring and fantastic experience. Our students returned with new perspectives, stronger friendships, and memories they will carry with them for years to come. A huge thank you to the staff at Kinglake Forest Adventures for their dedication to making this such a special event for our students. We can’t wait for the next adventure!

My Year 8 camp experience:

Aelwynn Smith 8E

I had such a good time at camp, even though the tents were a bit uncomfortable I managed to get some sleep. The activities at king lake were so fun I feel that it got everyone so excited for the next day. There were so many things that lifted our team spirit, I would say that my Favorite was the buffs, they are a cool accessory that you get to take home, and they helped show who was in each team. On the second day, half of the tribes moved out of the cabins and half moved in, we then ate a yummy breakfast. At the end of day two we had tribal council, that was where everyone made a speech and told it to all the tribes about how they were going, also there was a vote in each tribe for who was the best potential leader and the most developed. All the votes where then counted and all the winners either won a block of chocolate or a torch. Most of the activities happened on the second day so it felt good to relax in a comfy bed at night. On the third day we started the wilder gaining, it was about going out of HQ with clues to find blocks with different numbers. It was very fun to see the tribes doing funny dances just to get a block. My tribe didn’t win the wilder gaining, but we did win the chest. To open the chest, you had to complete three challenges get the code. In the chest was a can of soft drink for everyone. We then got a photo with out tribes and had lunch, after lunch we put our bags in the busses and went home to our parents. I was so excited to tell my parents what fun things I had done.

Tom Murley 8E

The camp was pretty good at the start. The whole concept of it being survivor theme was good and new because I haven’t had a camp like that before. The people who worked at the camp was very friendly and nice. The person who was my tribal leader was very trusting and friendly. The activities were very engaging and fun. The tribes set up was enjoyable with the freedom to be able to create your own flags and name. My two favourite was the nature walk then we went into a caged area that had wallabies in it, and we got to feed them, and the one that we got to climb the trees and got to do free fall.

Sienna Pugliese

Year 8 camp was really fun. We got to spend heaps of time with our friends. Like in our cabins, at mealtimes and during the daily activities. The activities challenged each one of us to try something new or different. At the camp there was also wallabies! They were called Fiona and Vincent, and they were very cute. We each got a small handful of food to feed the wallabies. During the nighttime, all the different tribes got to participate in a range of fun, character building challenges. Overall, camp was a super fun, and enjoyable experience.

Miss Claire Murray

Year 8 Coordinator

Health, Physical Education and Science Teacher

Connect Days

Students in Years 7–9 have now participated in their first Connect Day—a day dedicated to enhancing students' social and emotional learning. Each day is centred around a specific theme that aligns with our school's values and the principles of respectful relationships.

This term, Year 8 focused on Embracing Diversity and Inclusion, while Year 9 explored the theme of Connection and Community. These days were filled with engaging activities designed to strengthen connections between students, staff, and the wider community.

Year 8 and Year 9 heard from Together for Humanity, an organisation that explored the importance of diversity and inclusion. Their presentation encouraged students to think about ways to help everyone feel connected and valued at school and beyond. Students also had the privilege of listening to personal migration stories from guest speakers, which deepened their understanding of diverse experiences.

Other activities included a talk from Uncle Glenn Loughrey, an Aboriginal Elder, a Party Safe presentation from local police, interactive sessions with Peer Mentors, and opportunities for physical activity.

Looking ahead, the themes and focus of Connect Days will evolve in Term Two. We encourage students to share their feedback and suggestions to help shape future Connect Days.

We hope students enjoyed their first experience for 2025, and we look forward to building on this initiative throughout the year.

Student reflection from Year 7 Connect Day, Alayna Johnstone (Year 7 student):

Connect Day was a time that allowed the 2025 Year 7’s to interact and get to know our peers and teachers. This day consisted of a welcoming Assembly, a briefing, and a Technological session to discover the great properties and uses of our computers. The most rewarding and exciting session, in my mind, was the class that occurred within period 2. This class was made up of fun activities with insights into how others worked and cooperative tasks that involved relying on others to lead your team to glory. Throughout this session, we were supported by the encouraging words of our Year 8 and 10 mentors.

Although this day was replacing an academic day, we were still led by our teachers for each session. This meant being able to see a different side of our teachers, one with no academic agenda and only fun and involvement in mind. With everyone enjoying themselves it enabled us to really connect with all different people of the school, whether they were teachers, mentors, or fellow peers. We all felt a bit more relaxed and a lot more settled in the Koonung community.

Kate O’Keefe

Social and Emotional Learning Leader

Live Life update

Congratulations to the many students who have stepped outside their comfort zone and accepted both the rights and responsibilities they have been granted as part of the Live Life program. Some have won awards today but I extend my appreciation to all those who have made the most of the program.

Here is just one of many pieces of feedback we have received in response to Koonung students doing community work this term. This came from the Sam Gamaralalage, who is the Lifestyle Officer at Box Hill Views Care Community. Box Hill Views Care Community are a local aged care community. Sam says:

"We are truly grateful to have had Keibod and Myren on board. They were both wonderful, with a positive attitude and kindness towards the residents. They confidently led the bingo game on their own and engaged with the residents with other social activities under supervision in a warm and friendly manner. They also made really good connections with our beautiful residents and the residents truly enjoyed their company.

Thank you for sending such delightful students to our care community and it really does make a meaningful difference in our residents' lives. We look forward to welcoming more students in the future."

Congratulations Myren and Keibod!

All the Live Life staff advised me it was a difficult choice to choose only two students from their module. However, these are the students we were able to publicly acknowledge this term.

Life

Tyrese Nazifovski

Josie Mander

Self

Remy White

Nathan Smith

Community

Imogen Bartel

Hime Delaney

Group

The group of:

Aanya Engineer

Moksha Iyer

Chaerin (Rina) Eom

Alice Mackinnon

Daniel Goulding

Finally, our Live Life leaders for this year have been chosen. Thanks to all those that indicated an interest in the positions. After many discussions with Middle Years and Live Life staff we have chosen the following students. I hope they wear these badges on their blazers with pride and lead the way by having a go at everything Live Life offers you this year.

Our Live Life leaders for 2025 are:

Emily Lim
Georgette Joughin
Afra Eftekhar
Hime Delaney
Elsa Ji

Shaun Sanderson

Live Life Program Co-ordinator

Year 9 Live Life Community Module Student Volunteer Placement

Photo 1: During our time at the Bolton Clarke Aged Care centre, Afra and I had the privilege of talking to various residents there. Both the residents and the people in charge were so kind to us, making this experience even better. Valerie (as seen in the middle) was such a kind and sweet person with a great sense of humour. Over the past few weeks at the aged care centre, we helped with organising various activities and talked to the residents, allowing us to learn about each of their own unique backgrounds and experiences.

Photo 2: This image was taken in Westfield Shopping Centre, on our way to get our lunch. To get there, we travelled by bus, before making a brief stop to purchase our lunch before getting onto two other buses. Although there was a time when we caught the wrong bus, we eventually found our way to the aged care centre with the help of Mr. Mangonis and Mr. Bogemann!

Hime Delaney 9C

Andrew Mangonis

Maths Teacher/Year 9 Live Life Comunity Module Coordinator

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