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Paisley Campus News

Message from Mac Martins - Year 12 student

 

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In March, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Canberra as one of 113 students selected from across Australia to participate in the 31st National Schools Constitutional Convention. I was honoured to be among the 25 students representing Victoria.

 

Over the course of three days, we engaged with a range of distinguished political leaders and public figures, gaining valuable insights into Australia’s political and constitutional landscape. We also visited key national institutions, including Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Government House, and the National Press Club of Australia. 

 

Leaders that we had the opportunity to meet:

  • Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC (Governor-General of Australia), 
  • The Hon Richard Marles MP (Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Defence), 
  • The Hon Jason Clare MP (Minister for Education)
  • The Hon Tim Watts MP (Member for Gellibrand, Victoria)
  • The Hon. Milton Dick MP (Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives)
  • The Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP (Treasurer of Australia)
  • Senator Fatima Payman
  • The Hon Nicholas Minchin (Former Australian Senator)

  • The Hon John Faulkner (Former Australian Senator)

     

The central focus of the convention was the question: Should Section 53 of the Constitution be amended to prevent the Senate from blocking supply (rejecting money bills)? Throughout the program, we heard from expert keynote speakers and participated in thoughtful discussions, debates, and “soapbox” sessions, where students shared and challenged differing perspectives.

 

The convention culminated in a mock referendum on the proposed amendment. While the proposal did not achieve a double majority, the process provided a meaningful insight into how constitutional change occurs in Australia. A communiqué summarising our discussions and conclusions was presented at the end of the convention.

 

A particular highlight of the trip was attending Question Time in the House of Representatives, where we witnessed the dynamic and often heated exchanges between the government and opposition, as well as hearing from many guest speakers, including 

  • The Honourable Anthony Albanese MP (Prime Minister of Australia)
  • Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission), who was on a state visit to Australia. 
  • Professor Anne Twomey (Professor of Constitutional Law and Director of the Constitutional Reform Unit at Sydney Law School at the University of Sydney)
  • Professor Gabrielle Appleby (Law Faculty at University of New South Wales)
  • Professor Alan Fenna (Professor of Politics at the John Curtin Institute of Public Policy, Curtin University, Western Australia)

  • Tom McIlroy (Political Editor for the Guardian Australia) & Amber Brock-Fabel (Founding Director of the South Australian Youth Forum). 

     

Beyond the formal program, the experience was enriched by the camaraderie of the Victorian delegation. The trip was not only highly educational, but also deeply memorable, and it is an experience I will carry with me into the future.

Victorian Careers Show – Years 10, 11 & 12

Students in Years 10–12 will be attending the Victorian Careers Show at the Melbourne Showgrounds in May. 

 

Year 10 students will attend on Wednesday 13 May, and Year 11 & 12 students on Friday 15 May. Transport will depart school at 10:30am and return by 1:00pm on both days.

 

During the event, students will have the chance to explore future pathways by engaging with universities, TAFEs, employers, apprenticeship providers and industry representatives. They will also be able to ask questions, gather course information and learn about entry‑level jobs, training options and career opportunities.

 

This experience will support Year 10 students as they prepare for VCE and VCE‑VM subject selection later in Term 2, and assist Year 11 and 12 students as they plan for post‑school pathways.

 

Please ensure consent is submitted on Compass by 11 May.

Year 10 Work Experience - Message from Marsha Maver-Baxter - Year 10 Work Experience Coordinator

Dear families, 

 

All year 10 students will be participating in work experience in Week 2, Term 3.

Dates: Monday July 20th – Friday July 24th

 

This term Voyager teachers will be continuing their discussions with your child regarding this process. Throughout Term 2, I will be joining Voyager and Wellbeing classes to outline expectations, guidance, and support to your child as they seek and secure a work placement. In Voyager, students will complete the mandatory modules and paperwork required for Work Experience. 

 

Now is the perfect time for students to start exploring placement options and securing a position that aligns with their interests. 

 

While students are expected to find a placement themselves, both their teachers and I are available to assist them throughout the process.

 

I will also be available in Pathways at recess, lunch, and afterschool if they need assistance. 

 

The earlier you make enquiries the more likely students will be able to secure their chosen Work Experience. 

 

Paperwork must be submitted by Friday May 29th. 

 

I appreciate your support in discussing potential placements at home and encouraging your child to take initiative in finding a suitable placement.