Staff Handbook

1. Placement at Macleod

Dear Colleague,

 

Welcome to Macleod College! We are thrilled to have you join us on your journey to becoming a teacher. As you step into our community, we look forward to working closely with you, providing mentorship, and guiding you as you develop your skills and confidence in the classroom. Our staff is not only eager to share their knowledge and experiences but also to learn from you, recognising the fresh perspectives you bring. Together, we can create a dynamic and supportive learning environment. We are excited to be a part of your growth and success!

 

If there are any questions concerning the college please do not hesitate to contact Lilian Tran, Pre-Service Teacher Coordinator (lilian.tran@education.vic.gov.au) or your Mentor. We will do our best to support you during your time with us!

During your placement

During your time with us, you are our colleague, and we expect you to take part in every aspect of being a teacher and a member of our community. We encourage you to ask questions, get to know other staff members, and engage fully in the day-to-day duties and responsibilities. Embrace professional learning opportunities and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Apart from observations and teaching, some things you may expect to engage in are:

  • Observations of other teachers and their classes

  • Yard Duties with your Mentor or another staff member

  • Professional learning, and meetings

  • Parent Teacher Student Conferences (PTSC), if they are within the timeframe of your placement

  • Other: Lunch Sports Trainings, Excursions, School Production, Assemblies

  • Building rapport with students

Before your placement

Please contact the PST Coordinator or your Mentor prior to your placement so we have your contact details. This is also a great opportunity to engage with your Mentor and ensure you feel prepared before starting. If you would like more information or wish to discuss your placement in detail, the PST Coordinator is also available for a pre-placement visit. Group briefings may also be held online, depending on the number of PSTs we have at any given time.

 

Note: Please use your student email to maintain professional communication practices. Information shared during your placement may be confidential, and it’s important that this is communicated through appropriate professional channels.

 

Please ensure that you have the following prepared before placement:

  • For sign-in at Reception

    • Working With Childrens Check (WWCC) - a copy will be made on the 1st day, when you sign in

    • Vehicle Registration – this will be recorded in case any issues arise

  • A working laptop/device

  • Attire: Smart casual, and subject appropriate (eg. Physical Education/practical environments)

    • As staff members, tattoos are permitted at school, provided they do not display content that could be deemed offensive, sensitive, or inappropriate for a school environment

  • Your placement expectations and the requirements for a successful placement

    • Please make time to discuss this with your Mentor, so they can fulfill their obligations.

On Arrival (Day 1)

Arrive at school by 8.30am (unless otherwise organised with your Mentor). Report to Reception, and sign in. You will be provided with a Pre-Service Teacher tag that you need to display during your time at the college. You will not need to sign in for the remainder of your placement.

 

On the first day, you will:

  • Be met by the PST Coordinator or your Mentor

  • Have a desk organised for you, close to your Mentor

  • Introduced to the IT Department , where a time will be made for you to be connected to the internet, the School Management System ‘COMPASS’, Google Drive, and PaperCut (printing/photocopying)
    • Your Mentor will guide you on how we use these systems

  • Given a brief tour of the college (unless otherwise arranged)

Parking

Our staff car park entrance is located on Carwarp Street, and you are welcome to park your vehicle there. Please inform Reception of your vehicle registration in case any issues arise.

 

Public Transport

We’re located next to Macleod Station on the Hurstbridge Line. You can enter the school grounds via Gate 14, which leads to Gate 18 and provides direct access to the school. Gate 18 is usually unlocked by 8:00 AM but may be locked after 4:00 PM. If it is locked, you’ll need to exit through the front entrance and walk around to the train station.

Late/Absent

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can sometimes cause lateness or absence. If this occurs, please communicate with us as soon as possible to ensure appropriate arrangements can be made, as your Mentor will need to plan for your lateness/absence.

 

Reception: 9459 0222 | macleod.co@education.vic.gov.au, or contact your Mentor directly, should you have their contact details.

 

If you are absent, please coordinate with your mentor to make up the missed time.

 

If you need any help, please see the PST Coordinator, your Mentor or Reception.

 

Macleod College is a very proud to support and promote the development of Pre-Service Teachers. We wish your time with us will be enjoyable and will inspire your ongoing career in the teaching profession.

 

Lilian Tran | lilian.tran@education.vic.gov.au 

Pre-Service Teacher Coordinator, Head of Learning Arts & Technology, Student Leadership Leader

*Please note: My work days are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday.