Staff News
Professional Learning and Development
Instructional Model – our work with PWRD
This year we are very fortunate to be working with Christopher Thomas from PWRD on our Instructional Model. Our focus is on a consistent lesson structure. Whilst this may seem like something that all schools should be doing, over the years there has been a lot of conversation around the best way to structure lessons to optimise learning and outcomes for our students. In Victoria, schools are now moving more towards explicit teaching - a highly structured, evidence-based approach where teachers clearly explain, model, and scaffold new or complex concepts. This is not a new model. Teachers who commenced their careers in the 1980’s would know this type of pedagogy. It is heavily based on many years of research and evidence and as the students in front of us continue to change and learn differently, we often need to adapt our teaching practices to support their styles of learning.
Christopher has had over 30 years’ experience in education, including his role as Principal. As a leadership and school improvement presenter, Christopher has supported many educators throughout Australia on their leadership and school improvement journey. Christopher has coached and presented extensive teacher and leadership professional learning programs ranging from teacher to executive leadership. He has expertise in the areas of leading self, trust, change, emotional intelligence, professional conversations, culture, high performing teams, and leading learning.
He continues to execute his personal philosophy that:
“All children have the right to access a comprehensive and personally rewarding, quality education. All school communities have an obligation to ensure that each child receives the educational, emotional, physical, and social experiences necessary to experience success.”
On Friday 27 February, Christopher will be leading our Teaching and Learning Professional Learning Day as we unpack our new model of lesson structure. We look forward to working with him this year.
Staffing and Recruitment
Staffing Updates
Over the Christmas and New Year break we had the following staff movements:
Resignations
Mr Andrew Williams – Humanities Teacher
Leave
Mrs Theresa Sloan – On leave for 2026
New Staff
- Ms Anastasia Romanoff – Humanities Teacher
- Miss Briana Hyland – Learning Support Officer
- Mr Bryce Sandall – Visual Arts Assistant
- Mrs Nilupuli Wickramasingha - Learning Support Officer
Staff Spotlight
This is an opportunity for our staff and community to get to know each other by way of asking each staff member to answer a few questions about themselves. I would like to share these with our community as I believe the partnership we have with our parents/guardians/carers is a valued and respected one and I am sure you would like to get to know the staff of your child’s school as a way of building these positive relationships and partnerships.
This month I would like to introduce to you Mr Callum Clarke – Maths and Science Teacher
Where was I born and where did I grow up?
Born in Moe. Grew up in Trafalgar.
What is a unique/interesting part of my childhood?
I had several pets such as dogs, cats, a bird, a rabbit and ferrets.
My favourite food combo is ……
Not sure… I like most food.
What I love most about my career is ……
Running engaging tasks.
If I was stranded on a desert island, the 2 people I would want with me are ……
Bear Grylls (to help me survive) and a boat maker (to help me escape)
When I want to unwind and do some self-care I …..
Watching videos.
I am most inspired by ……..
Jesus
Professional Culture and Growth
College Photographs – Thursday 26 February 2026
The College Photos were taken today, Thursday 26 February, and were held in the College Hall.
Registrations for sibling/family photos for today have now closed. We will re-open the form for registrations for Tuesday 10 March on Friday 27 February. This will close on Friday 6 March at 4.00pm.
Sibling Photo registration form 2026 College Photos - Siblings – Fill in form
Information regarding the ordering of College photos will be communicated to families.
Have your contact details or family circumstances changed?
If you have had any changes to your contact details or had family circumstances change it is important to contact the College to update your details. This also includes any changes to other family members or friends you have listed as a contact for your child. Ensuring your details are up to date means that we can make contact when needed. Please call or email College reception to update your details.
Mrs Georgie Beekhof
Deputy Principal – Professional Culture and Growth