Assistant Principal - Engagement & Inclusion

As Term 1 comes to a close, we’re proud to reflect on what has been a vibrant and engaging start to the school year at Swinburne Senior Secondary College. 

Our Year 11 and 12 students kicked things off Orientation Week, designed to ease the transition into senior schooling and build a strong foundation for the year ahead. Through a mix of lunch-time activities, team-building in classes and introductions to key staff and support services, students had the chance to familiarise themselves with the college environment and school values, as well as engage with their peers and teachers.

As we do every year, we have been thrilled to welcome so many new students to the Swinburne community this term. Whether they joined us from nearby schools or further afield, our new students have brought fresh perspectives and enthusiasm that have already made a positive impact on our college culture. Likewise, our new staff members have quickly become valued members of our teaching and education support staff teams, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge, passion, and commitment to supporting student success.

Term 1 has been rich with ongoing programs and initiatives that support student wellbeing, leadership, and learning. Our students engaged thoughtfully with the Elephant Ed consent education program, which provided a safe space for meaningful discussions around respect, relationships, and personal boundaries. The Wellbeing Room has become a popular lunchtime hub on Thursdays, where students can enjoy coffee, arts and crafts, and games in a relaxed and welcoming space. Meanwhile, our Student Representative Council (SRC) has been actively meeting and making exciting contributions to student life — from coordinating this year’s school hoodies to getting a head start on planning the much-anticipated College Formal. We also recently held our Parent-Teacher Interviews, offering valuable opportunities for reflection and dialogue around each student’s learning journey, strengths, and goals for the year ahead.

One of the highlights and a stunning way to end the term was our very first Welcome to Swinny Fete, a joyful celebration that brought together students and staff for an afternoon of fun, food, and connection. Hosted by the Year 12 Managers, Mentors and students for the new Year 11 students, the event was a wonderful way for our community to get to know one another and celebrate the successes of Term 1 in a relaxed setting, with an incredible range of activities including meditation, nail art, bracelet making, puzzles and games, outdoor games, karaoke, canvas painting, screen printing, theatre sports, vox pops, popcorn and fairy floss, face painting, and temporary tattoos. It was a fantastic showcase of the creativity and spirit of our college. Thank you to everyone who came along and contributed to making the fete so memorable.

Throughout Term 1, we’ve also continued to celebrate the unique strengths and identities of so many members of our school. As a proudly diverse and inclusive community, Swinburne Senior Secondary College is committed to creating an environment where all students feel respected, seen, and supported. This term, we’ve highlighted student voices through assemblies, classroom conversations, and student-led initiatives that reflect our belief in the power of individuality and belonging. 

We look forward to building on this energy as we head into Term 2.

Emily Barnes

Assistant Principal - Wellbeing and Inclusion