Castlemaine Secondary College News

Principal's message

Principal’s Message – Term 3 Reflections

As we close Term 3, I am proud to reflect on the growth and focus across our college. This term has been shaped by our commitment to the School-Wide Instructional Model (SWIM), the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM), and School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS), while also preparing for exciting new structures in 2026.

Strengthening Teaching and Learning through SWIM

Our SWIM has continued to provide clarity and consistency across classrooms. Teachers and students alike know what great learning looks like, and this has enabled us to raise expectations and outcomes.

This term, all teachers participated in Performance and Development meetings, where they used Class Survey data provided by their students to reflect on their practice. Teachers identified areas of strength and pinpointed opportunities for improvement, reinforcing our commitment to continuous growth and high-quality learning experiences.

Wellbeing and Engagement through BSEM

At CSC, the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM) continues to be a cornerstone of how we support student wellbeing and engagement. The routines and practices we have built together ensure that students feel centred, grounded, and emotionally ready to learn each day. By embedding strategies that help young people regulate their emotions, build positive relationships, and connect meaningfully with their learning, we create classrooms where every student can thrive.

To strengthen this further, all staff will participate in a BSEM Refresher Course on Day 1 of Term 4. This training will allow us to revisit the key principles of BSEM:

  • Body – supporting physical regulation and readiness for learning.
  • Stamina – building persistence and resilience.
  • Engagement – creating safe, predictable and inclusive learning environments.
  • Character – fostering positive identity, values and strengths.
  • Relationships – developing trust and connection between staff, students, and families.

By keeping these principles at the heart of our practice, we ensure that every student is well-prepared - both emotionally and academically - to access their learning and reach their full potential.

Positive Culture through SWPBS

SWPBS has played an important role in strengthening our school culture this term. Our Achievement Points program has acknowledged thousands of moments of Aspiration, Respect and Empathy across the college. It has been wonderful to see so many students striving for their best, and equally to see staff celebrating these achievements in a consistent and visible way.

Looking Ahead: Year Level Structures for 2026

From 2026, CSC will move to a Year-Level Sub-School Model. Each year level will be supported by a dedicated Year Level Leader working alongside Mentor teachers. Their role is to:

  • Strengthen teacher capacity to deliver consistent Tier 1 supports (aligned to SWPBS expectations and Berry Street routines).
  • Provide targeted Tier 2 support where universal classroom strategies are not enough.

  • Work with students, families and staff to solve issues quickly, using data-informed decisions.

     

We are proud to announce our Year Level Leaders for 2026:

  • Year 7 – Jane Dimsey (Wellbeing Building)
  • Year 8 – Kath Goodes (Artisans Building)
  • Year 9 – Robert Flynn & Courtney Dodlen (Artisans Building)
  • Year 10 – Georgia Gordon (Engineering Building)
  • Year 11 – Carys Chalkin-McDonald (Engineering Building)
  • Year 12 – Brad Campbell (Performers Building)

 

Each Sub-School will also be overseen by a Leading Teacher:

  • Junior School (Year 7) – Alex Burgess-Norris
  • Middle School (Year 8 & 9) – Sophie Tanner
  • Upper (Year 10 & 11) & Senior School (Year 12) – Judith McLean

This structure provides clear lines of support and leadership, creating stronger connections between staff, students, and families.

 

Please be advised that due to the significant re-structure there will be many changes to mentors in 2026. The allocation of mentors will occur in Term 4, and this information will be shared with students and families when students receive their 2026 timetables, which we anticipate being approximately Week 6 of next term. The splitting of Year 7 & 8 classes in 2 mentor groups will be discontinued next year, this is due to financial constraints. We strongly believe the new year level structure will provide the required support for students and their families. 

2025 Awards Ceremony

Students, parents and carers should be aware that the 2025 Awards Ceremony will be occurring from 9:30am - 10:30am on Wednesday 3 December. Invites to Award Sponsors, Award Recipients and their families will be distributed the week before this event.

2026 Step-Up Program

Students will commence their 2026 classes during Term 4, with the Step-Up Program running from Monday, 24 November - Friday, 5 December. Students will be provided with their 2026 timetable before Step-Up classes begin and will be given an opportunity to make changes to their classes during the two weeks of Step-Up. Attendance is required for the entire two weeks of Step-Up, as students will commence work and assessment for 2026. 

 

 

 

 

Justin Hird

Principal