Update!

From the Principal

I’ve been very fortunate to be involved in a range of student led activities in my short time at CSC. The quality of student leadership at the College is outstanding and ensures the community of Castlemaine is well placed for a future generation of leaders. Sixteen students generously gave up their time to attend a staff professional development day last week and were passionate about their school and “what works” for them in the classroom. Staff and students worked collaboratively on the schools core values of Pride, Respect and Responsibility and how these look and feel as behaviours across the College. The conversations were positive and constructive and provided some great starting points for a new Principal starting at the College.

The Principal selection process is well underway and I’m confident that there will be an outcome by the end of the second week of June. As soon as the process has concluded the College Council President will make an announcement to the College Community. We have scheduled a celebration assembly for Wednesday 21st June at which we hope to be able to present the new Principal to the school community as well as celebrate student achievement.

Music performances-It’s been a great privilege to attend most of the music recitals over the past few weeks and I’d like to thank and congratulate Kirsten and the music staff for the exceptional work they do. The music program at CSC is one of the best, if not the best in regional Victoria and a showcase for the College. The enthusiasm and talent on display from students ranging in year levels was outstanding. I would also like to acknowledge the support that the music program receives from the local community.

Reconciliation Week and Sorry Day-The whole school participated in an assembly of reconciliation and dedication with our local Aboriginal community last week. This was led by Aunty Julie and our school leaders and included a smoking ceremony of the College flags and any students that wished to participate. The students were extremely respectful as Aunty Julie spoke and I believe left with a greater understanding of local and wider Aboriginal culture. On the following day our School Captains, Megan and Ben, spoke passionately at the community “Sorry Day Ceremony”. Their speeches were some of the best that I have heard from any students (at any school) and received great praise from the audience. Castlemaine Secondary College should be very proud of these young people and their capacity to have a strong voice and make positive change in the wider community.

Student Uniform-This week the school leaders and I have been having a number of conversations with students about their uniform and the way it’s worn at the College. The College community have made a commitment to the CSC having a pre-scribed compulsory uniform that I believe is comfortable, practical and affordable. Wearing uniform is important in promoting pride in the community, a sense of belonging and equality between students. The College is able to support students and their families that may find the purchase of uniform items challenging at the moment especially with the onset of colder weather. Karen Burton, our Family Finance Manager can assist with this as can any of the student wellbeing staff.

Providing a safe workspace-Students at CSC undertake a range of classroom activities some of which are in non-traditional settings such as science, technology, sport etc. In these areas students are required to have appropriate materials for their work and that sometimes includes appropriate clothing. In some areas, such as technology related subjects, students are required to wear fully enclosed shoes that ensure protection from drops and spills. The College wants to support students participate in these activities but also has an obligation to provide a safe workplace for them. Your support in ensuring your child has the appropriate footwear that is compliant with the schools uniform policy is appreciated.

Finally I would like to acknowledge one of our staff - Mr Kerin Lourey on 35 years in teaching.

Noel Claridge

Acting Principal

Host Families for Japanese Students 2 -6 August 2017

Host Families for Japanese Students 2 -6 August 2017

We are again fortunate to have a group of students from Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan visit our College this year.

To enable this to run smoothly, we are looking for students and families to host these students whilst here.

This is a truly rewarding and worthwhile experience.  Primarily we are looking for families of year 7 to 9 students, but any year level would be more than welcome. The  application forms are available from the reception office for anyone that is interested.

If you would like more information or have any queries please contact Lyn Ellery on 5479 1111.  Thank you.

Help with uniforms

Keeping our kids in uniform can be a big deal for the family budget, so this is to let everyone know that there are second-hand uniforms available. 

1. There will be another second-hand Books & Uniform Sale at the end of Term 4 (and we are considering adding another Uniform Sale next year at the start of Term 2, as the weather changes). This is a parent-run initiative, with the support of School Council & the school. 

2. Throughout the year, you can also trade on Facebook- the page is called 'Castlemaine And District School Uniform And Books' (https://m.facebook.com/groups/552181278209656?ref=bookmarks). This is a locally administrated buy/ swap/ sell page for school items in the area, and not just for CSC. 

These help your budget in 2 ways - giving you the chance to buy cheaper options, as well as to get some money back if you sell uniform items you no longer need. 

For students or families who are really stuck, there is help available, either via the Office or please see Kath Coff in the Calm Learning Space. Donations of uniform items are always welcomed too, to support all members of our school community. 

If you have any questions or suggestions about second-hand uniforms or books, please contact Bee (Parent Support Group member) on 0400 180 516 or email beehoneybee73@gmail.com