THE VCE VM PROGRAM HITS THE GROUND RUNNING (AND SWIMMING) AT THE ATHLETIC CARNIVAL SWIM SPORTS FOR 2025

The 2025 school year commenced with an incredible display of school spirit. Despite the challenging heat, students embraced a sense of community through outstanding attendance and participation in the Athletics Carnival and Swim Sports. Their enthusiasm and commitment set a positive tone for the year ahead.

A highlight of the events was the Staff vs. Students competition, where friendly rivalry and teamwork were on full display. Students demonstrated determination and competitive spirit, challenging their teachers in both arenas. However, despite their best efforts, the staff emerged victorious on both days.

At both events, the VCE VM students demonstrated a strong sense of school pride,

ensuring that 2025 has begun with energy and excitement, paving the way for a year of achievement and connection.

EMPOWERING VCE VM STUDENTS TO LEAD

In Week 4, our Year 11 and 12 VCE VM students participated in an inspiring and thought-provoking presentation from Project Rockit titled ‘Level Up.’ This engaging session was designed to empower students with the confidence, resilience, and leadership skills needed to take positive action—not only in their school community but in the wider world.

Through interactive discussions and real-world scenarios, students explored key leadership values and the power of decision-making in shaping their future. They were encouraged to reflect on their own strengths and consider how they could contribute to meaningful change in their communities.

At the heart of ‘Level Up’ was a powerful message: “You already have everything you need today to start making the positive change you want to see in the world.”

This session served as a catalyst for students to recognise their potential, step into leadership roles, and embrace opportunities to drive positive impact.

McCLELLAND VCE VM STUDENTS EXCEL IN STRUCTURED WORKPLACE LEARNING(SWL)

As part of the VCE VM program, students are required to spend their Fridays in the workplace, gaining valuable hands-on experience in their chosen career pathways. This structured workplace learning allows students to develop essential industry skills, build professional networks, and gain firsthand insight into their future careers.

McClelland students have built a strong reputation within the local community for their dedication, reliability, and work ethic. While we take great pride in the positive feedback we receive, it is always especially rewarding to receive formal recognition of their efforts. Employers frequently commend our students for their enthusiasm, professionalism, and ability to adapt to real-world work environments.

This ongoing partnership between McClelland College, local businesses, and industry professionals ensures that our students are well-prepared for their futures, equipping them with the skills and confidence to thrive beyond the classroom.

“Libby has been an absolute asset for me and the students at Rowellyn Park PS so thank you for letting her do her placement every Friday. She has been assisting me with all lessons and has been so helpful with our new prep students and making them feel safe and welcome. She has assisted me with selecting swimming, cross country and inter-schoolsport summer teams and has come to school each Friday with a smile and fullo f enthusiasm”

Jake Macaulay |Primary PE & Sports Coordinator Physical Education Teacher/Coordinator, Rowellyn Park Primary School

WOMEN IN TRADES 2025

The workforce increasingly recognises the invaluable contributions that women bring to trade industries, with their diverse skills, fresh perspectives, and dedication making a significant impact. At McClelland College, we take immense pride in celebrating our students who are breaking barriers and excelling in non-traditional career pathways.

Congratulations to Jemma Shorten and Charlotte Nation, who are undertaking Parks and Gardens, and to Destiny Ferrari, who is completing her Certificate II in Plumbing while gaining hands-on experience at Reece Plumbing. Their commitment, determination, and passion for their respective trades exemplify the qualities needed to succeed in these industries.

By embracing opportunities in trades, these students are not only shaping their own futures but also paving the way for more young women to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. We commend their hard work and look forward to seeing their continued success in the industry.

THANKYOU!

The saying "Many hands make light work" rings especially true when it comes to teamworkand collaboration within our school community. A special acknowledgment goes to Zac Clancy and Nathan Raymond, whose willingness to step up and assist in construction projects has not gone unnoticed.

Their dedication and initiative, particularly in building frames to be distributed around the school, demonstrate a strong work ethic and a commitment to contributing to their learning environment. Their efforts not only support their peers and teachers but also help enhance the school’s facilities for the benefit of all.

PINCHAPOO PRESENTATION

As part of their studies on adversity issues, Unit 1 and 3 Literacy students have beenactively researching and exploring real-world challenges faced by individuals andcommunities. As part of this deep dive, students participated in an insightful presentation by Pinchapoo, an organisation at the forefront of tackling hygiene poverty in Australia. Founded 16 years ago, Pinchapoo began as a cheeky hotel toiletry ‘pinching’ movement, but has since grown into the largest national not-for-profit supplier of personal hygiene essentials. Through their innovative Robin Hood-inspired approach and landfill stock rescue programs, they have redistributed over 15 million hygiene products to disadvantaged men, women, and children across the country. Partnering with over 2,000 leading organisations,

community groups, and government institutions, Pinchapoo provides customised, culturally appropriate, and gender-inclusive hygiene packs to individuals in need. In Australia, 1 in 3 people experience hygiene poverty, often due to financial hardship, homelessness, or unforeseen circumstances. Tackling this issue begins with awareness and acknowledgment, ensuring that hygiene is recognized as a basic human right that should be accessible to all. The presentation provided students with a deeper understanding of social responsibility and the power of community-driven initiatives in making a tangible difference.

UPCOMING DATES FOR TERM 1, 2025

March 6th Year 12 - Tony Briggs Presentation

March 10th - Public holiday

March 11th Year 12 - Indigenous Walk Excursion

March 13th Year 11 - Numeracy F1 GP Excursion

March 20th Year 11 - Vic Career & Employment Expo

March 24th - Whole School Open Night

April 3rd - Year 12 - Fringe Festival 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Breakfast Club