PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

COVID-19

What an incredibly different world we are living in at the moment.

Things have changed so dramatically in what seems to be such a short period of time.

As I have said previously I could not be more proud of the teachers and staff of our community.

I appreciate the incredible workload and tremendous learning they have undertaken to prepare and be ready for such a different Term 2.

We have all learnt so much through this adversity already and I know we will all continue to learn and grow.

I don’t believe school will ever really be the same when we eventually do return.

I again emphasise that everyone needs to be patient and stay calm.

There will be a number of unforeseen issues and everyone will do their best to address all concerns in a timely fashion.

The remote learning program began Wednesday and was by all accounts quite smooth. Obviously it is a new way of teaching and learning and requires patience.

We received really positive feedback and I appreciate that so many parents and students went to the trouble to send such nice comments.

I know all of this creates a sense of anxiety but again I ask the community to remain calm, to be patient and for all students just to do their very best!

ASSESSMENTS/EXAMS

These will go ahead as per normal this term but modifications are being made and, of course, they will be undertaken at home.

Exams and Assessments will all be shortened.

We are very fortunate to have our Chromebook program which allows for assessments to be undertaken in a “locked format” which helps authentication of student work.

I know Year 12 students are particularly anxious.  Many are very aspirational and want to access very competitive University places.

VCAA is modifying requirements and exams will be held in November/December and this includes the GAT. Everyone is working hard to ensure no student is disadvantaged.

Again assessments and exams will assist with the authentication of student learning and application of their knowledge and verification of assessments. (NAPLAN has been cancelled for 2020).

Luckily we have undertaken extensive PAT testing which allows for comprehensive diagnostic information in literacy and numeracy to assist teachers with the student learning programs.

I feel very positive that things will work out okay.

WELLBEING/COMMUNITY

Sense of community is so important – especially at this time of only having online connection. So our PE Faculty has undertaken to develop the McKinnon 50 Challenge….if nothing else it is an hilarious video.

I recommend all students and families participate. Doing something positive together that also enhances physical health.

Also look out for the upcoming Wellbeing snippets on Compass.

These will be looking at strategies to improve mental wellbeing.

I thank the PE faculty and the Wellbeing team for their efforts in keeping the school community connected and improving people’s health and wellbeing.

YEAR 7 ENROLMENTS FOR 2021

This is the time of the year we would normally have our Open Night and tours but unfortunately this is not happening this year.

All information and forms for enrolment into Year 7 for 2021 to McKinnon Secondary College are now located under the Enrolment Information/Year 7 Applications tab on our website.

Please download and read all forms in the Year 7 2021 Enrolment Pack.

The due date for returning documents (either online or in person) is 18 May 2020.

Please follow instructions on our website carefully.

NEW CAMPUS

Plans are well and truly under way for the construction of the Virginia Park Year 9 Campus.

This is a very exciting project and is still due to be opened in January 2022.

ADCO constructions has been appointed and is on site now beginning some early works.

Curriculum design and development is the major area of focus. Michael Kan and the Curriculum Design Team are working diligently to produce innovative units of work.

GYMNASIUM

Our School Council project is also progressing well. We have sold many bricks so far, but this wonderful opportunity for families is still open for a few more months.

The tender process has been started and construction will begin in June.

This facility will make a tremendous difference to our school students.