Alternate Programs

Welcome back to another year. It is crazy to think that last year has gone and we are in 2026. I hope the break has not been too stressful for parents and carers and that students have had some down time over Summer.  I also hope that no one has been affected by the recent weather and associated bushfires and air quality issues – please reach out to the team if there is anything we can do to support you.

I would like to welcome new and returning members to the Alternate Programs team this year: Ebony Tate (Leading Teacher – McKenzie Creek), and Josh Harvey (Education Support – Disability Inclusion).  This has also meant a change of roles for Ben Murphy, who steps out of McKenzie Creek and into the Leading Teacher – VCE-VM/VPC Dimboola Rd role.  It’s important to acknowledge the fantastic work of Suz McKenry as Leading Teacher over the last year, and we are very lucky to have her still teaching with us in Orange Group.

It has been fantastic to see so many parents/carers and students over the last week for our induction meetings that have been taking place for students to return. If your child has not had a meeting, please get in touch to organise. Students cannot begin without this occurring.

Senior students at the Dimboola Road campus are all completing either their Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) or Victorian Certificate of Education – Vocational Major (VCE-VM).  Our junior students at McKenzie Creek have also commenced their program for the year with a strong focus on literacy and numeracy skills.  To all parents and carers, please make sure to reach out to program leaders or myself if you need support throughout the year or want more information.

Looking forward to a great 2026.

McKenzie Creek

Welcome to 2026

We warmly welcome both our new and returning students to the 2026 school year. This week, students have been settling into their daily routines and learning classroom expectations.

We commend our new students for overcoming nerves, trying new things, and making connections. We also thank our returning students for being welcoming and setting a positive example for others.

Throughout the week, students have had the opportunity to sample a range of elective subjects. This semester, students will participate in Media, Systems, Art, Home Economics, and Physical Education. They will also engage in ICT and Social and Emotional Wellbeing classes.

Hats

School hats are compulsory during Terms 1 and 4 as part of our SunSmart policy. All new students have been provided with a school hat.

Key Contacts

If your child is absent, or if you have any questions or concerns, please contact either Ebony or Darcy.

• Ebony - 0418 956 268             

• Darcy - 0458 304 615

Timetable Change

There has been a minor adjustment to our timetable, with Thursday lessons switching order. An updated timetable has been provided to McKenzie Creek students.

Wellbeing Support

This term, students will have access to additional wellbeing support, with a Headspace representative visiting weekly. Treena Hogan from our school wellbeing team will also continue working closely with students. In addition, our Doctors in Secondary Schools program has commenced, with students able to book appointments with a GP on Thursdays.