From the Principal

Planning for 2020 is in full swing. Teams are working on updating programs, resources and class lists, and leadership is addressing all staffing needs to meet the curriculum demands of 2020. It is a very busy time as student work is assessed, reports are being written, end of year activities are finalised, transition days and prospective enrolments are organised and completed. Yet, classes are running as timetabled and all students are engaged in the completion of learning tasks. We are all outcome-focused and running on adrenaline! Our final curriculum day on Wednesday was the opportune moment to capture our breath, thoughts, processes and plans. On the primary campus, the day included sessions on writing and reading presentations and reflections pertaining to the programs. There was discussion on the facilities use including the use of spaces and furniture. The main part of the day was focused on the new teams meeting to begin planning their programs for next year. On the secondary campus, the teams moderated student outcomes, worked on the completion of subject planners and assessment rubrics, reviewed existing and future resources, signed off on individual student learning plans and the upcoming Year 10 curriculum programs. Thank you to all families for their own planning in assisting with this day.

On Tuesday I had the privilege of attending the famous Year 1 dinner. The children arrived in beautiful clothes and began with some drawing, preparing colourful place mats before enjoying each other’s company for pizza and chips. They had also prepared their own jelly for dessert which had now set and was ready for devouring. I was so impressed with their cooperation, teamwork and maturity. A big thank you to their teachers on behalf of the parents and carers who put on the event with care and pride. The development of the Year 1 students in just one year has been amazing and is a credit to the teachers and support staff.

On Thursday our Year 8 and 9 students had their celebration at Luna Park. After some contentious moments with transport problems the students enjoyed a wonderfully sunny day in each other’s company and with their teachers.

Celebration at other year levels will follow with a day at Funfields on December 16 for Years 5 to 7 students and the swimming days for the primary students that will take place on Tuesday, December 17 and Wednesday, December 18.

Our commitment to exponential learning has proceeded as usual even in the last few weeks of term. The Year 5 cohort visited the Melbourne Zoo exploring a range of environments and the habitats of the species, titled Animal Adaptations and Ecosystems. The children had a wonderful time and each shared their own personal highlights from the day. I can say that the learning and deeper thinking was articulated by their meaningful responses on their return and in their reflections which I hope that they shared with their families.

On Tuesday, the Year 8 students attended the annual Lakes Year 8 Discovery Day at La Trobe University’s Bundoora Campus. Students were given the opportunity to explore the university facilities and grounds, with guided tours and some time to explore in small groups. Students were provided with information about the many areas of study offered at La Trobe, and the many pathways and opportunities that are available to gain entry into tertiary study. It was an insightful and enjoyable day for students and staff.

We have had some reports of erratic driving and children riding scooters and bikes dangerously which is a serious concern. No helmets, not using the designated crossings and speeding through busy footpaths at peak travel times are all serious concerns. We need to continually remind children of their riding responsibilities and the danger they pose to themselves and others if they do not follow road rules. We are working with the local council to increase patrols and police presence leading into the hectic festive season in an effort to maximise the safety of our community during this busy period.

I would like to thank the Year 9 students and their families for their support and commitment to our school over many years. A special service memento representing their time at The Lakes was presented at assembly today. To the students moving on to other schools next year, we thank you for your contribution and commitment at our school and wish you great success and happiness with your future. To the students who will form the exciting senior school for the very first time, we are all so excited and thrilled that you will be the inaugural group that will set an exceptional tone and standard and inspire all others in our school to “Dare to dream”.

Finally - an open invitation to our families. We are very excited to be launching our first Lakes School Community Health and Wellbeing Expo on Wednesday 11th December between 1:15 - 3:15 pm. We have engaged the services of a wonderful guest speaker in Nathan Hulls who will launch the afternoon by presenting to our community around 2:00 pm. Nathan Hulls is Australia’s #1 High School Motivational Speaker and has been engaging, inspiring and empowering students, teachers, youth workers and parents across Australia for the past nineteen years. Through his research into positive psychology, social and emotional intelligence, resilience and motivational theory Nathan has designed and runs seminars that engage and strengthen the whole school community. A number of Health & Wellbeing Stalls will provide information and run activities through lunchtime beginning at 1:15pm including Bundoora FC/Sport star Soccer Academy, the Greensborough Hockey Club and other local sporting providers. In addition, we will have Headspace, Austin Hospital Youth Services and the Victorian Police attending and supporting the wonderful event.

Thank you for your ongoing support and have a lovely weekend!

Bill.