Principal Report

Principal’s Message

I hope everyone enjoyed the recent long weekend and had the opportunity to rest and recharge.

Term 1 has continued at a fast pace, with a wide range of opportunities for our students across the college. It has been wonderful to see so many students embracing new challenges and representing our college with pride.

Since our last newsletter, selected primary and secondary students have progressed to the next level of competition following our House Swimming Sports, while another group of students will travel to Horsham on 25th March to compete in the Regional Swimming Sports. Our secondary students have also proudly represented the college in the MWC Triathlon and Senior Cricket, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and commitment. These events not only showcase athletic ability but also highlight the character and determination of our young people. We congratulate all students who have represented the college - your sportsmanship and effort have been outstanding.

We were also delighted to welcome back our Year 5–6 students from Somers Camp. Somers provides an incredible experience focused on independence, leadership and personal growth. Throughout their time away, students participated in a range of outdoor and adventure-based activities including initiative challenges, group problem-solving tasks, environmental studies, physical challenges and team-building experiences. Most importantly, they developed confidence, resilience and lasting friendships - skills that will benefit them well beyond their time at primary school.

As a college, we were also proud to connect with our wider community by supporting the TeMania Bull Sale. Community partnerships remain an important part of who we are, and it was fantastic to see our students, staff and families involved in and supporting this longstanding local event.

We concluded Week 6 with our Relay for Life community event. I am incredibly proud of our students for leading this initiative with such compassion, organisation and enthusiasm. The level of participation across the college was fantastic, and the fundraising effort from our school community was truly impressive. The commitment to raising both awareness and significant funds, while honouring those impacted by cancer, reflects the very best of our college values in action.

I have now commenced my Long Service Leave. I do so knowing that I can step away with complete confidence that everything will continue to run smoothly, as we have a wonderful and dedicated leadership team and staff. Anne DeManser will be Acting Principal during my absence, and I know she will be well supported by our staff and broader school community.

Term 1 has certainly been busy, but it is these rich and varied experiences that help shape confident, capable and community-minded young people.

Prep Students now Attending on Wednesdays

Prep students will begin attending school on Wednesdays from Wednesday 11th March.

This change reflects that, over the first half of Term 1, Prep students have had the opportunity to gradually build their stamina and adjust to the routines and expectations of full-time schooling.

Term 1 Student Reporting and Parent–Student–Teacher Interviews

Term 1 student reports will be available via Compass at the end of the term. These reports provide an overview of each student’s learning behaviours and attitudes, offering families a clear picture of how their child is engaging with their learning across the college.

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews will be held on Thursday 30th April, with 15-minute appointments available between 1:00pm and 7:00pm.

We strongly encourage all parents, carers and students to attend these interviews. These meetings are a very important part of the learning partnership between home and school. They provide an opportunity to discuss each student’s progress, celebrate successes, clarify expectations for learning, and identify strategies that will support continued growth. When students are present, they are able to take ownership of their learning, hear feedback directly, and contribute to conversations about their goals and next steps.

Research consistently shows that students achieve stronger outcomes when families are actively engaged in their education. These interviews allow us to work together to ensure students feel supported, challenged and confident in their learning.

Bookings will open through Compass closer to the date, and further information will be shared with families in the coming weeks.

Strong home–school partnerships are built on open and ongoing communication. While reports and interviews are key milestones, families are always encouraged to contact teachers throughout the year with any questions, concerns or celebrations. By working together, we can ensure the best possible learning and wellbeing outcomes for every student.

Student Mobile Phones at School

A reminder to families that students are not permitted to use mobile phones during the school day. This expectation aligns with the Victorian Department of Education’s Mobile Phones Policy, which applies to all government schools.

If a student mobile phone is brought to school, it must be switched off and stored securely for the entire school day.

Please be aware that if students have mobile phones out or use them during the school day, the device will be confiscated in line with Department policy and our school’s student engagement and wellbeing processes.

We appreciate the ongoing support of families in reinforcing this expectation with students. By working together, we help maintain a safe, calm and focused learning environment for everyone.

NAPLAN 2026 – Information for Families

Each year, students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 across Australia participate in the National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). In 2026, NAPLAN testing will begin on Wednesday 11th March for eligible students at our college.

NAPLAN is a nationwide assessment that provides valuable information about how students are progressing in key areas of reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy. The purpose of NAPLAN is not to create pressure or competition, but to give schools and families a clear snapshot of learning growth over time.

The information gathered through NAPLAN helps schools to:

• Identify areas of strength and areas for improvement in student learning• Inform teaching programs and targeted support• Monitor whole-school trends and progress over time• Support planning that aligns with the Victorian Curriculum and student learning needs

For families, NAPLAN provides another way to understand how their child is progressing alongside the regular classroom assessments, reports and teacher feedback you receive throughout the year.

We encourage students to simply do their best and approach NAPLAN as one part of their learning journey. A good night’s sleep, a healthy breakfast and arriving at school ready to learn are the best ways to help students feel confident and prepared.

If families have any questions about NAPLAN or would like more information about how the assessments will run at our college or how to withdraw your child from these assessments, please contact your child’s classroom teacher or student advocate.

Harmony Day – Friday 20th March (Week 8)

Harmony Day: Celebrating Diversity at Mortlake College

Australia is one of the world’s most successful multicultural countries, and our cultural diversity is an important part of who we are as a nation. Across Australia, more than half of the population were either born overseas or have at least one parent who was born overseas. This diversity strengthens our communities, broadens our perspectives, and enriches the experiences we share.

Harmony Week provides an opportunity for schools and communities across the country to celebrate this diversity while promoting the values of inclusiveness, respect, and belonging for all Australians. It reminds us that from the Traditional Owners of the land to our most recent arrivals, everyone has a place in our community. Harmony Week celebrates the idea that no matter where we come from, we are united by shared Australian values such as freedom, respect, fairness, democracy and equal opportunity.

At Mortlake College, we are proud to be part of a diverse and welcoming community. We have a growing number of students attending our school who were born in other countries and who now call Australia home. Harmony Day provides a wonderful opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate the many cultures, backgrounds and experiences that make our school such a vibrant place to learn and grow.

On Friday 20th March, we will recognise Harmony Day at the College. Students and staff are encouraged to wear something orange to school to show their support for cultural diversity and an inclusive Australia. Orange is the official colour of Harmony Week and represents social communication and meaningful conversations.

Throughout the week, students will also have opportunities to participate in activities that highlight the importance of respect, inclusion and understanding within our community.

We look forward to celebrating Harmony Day together as a college community and recognising the many cultures that make Mortlake College such a special place.

National Ride to School Day – Friday 20th March (Week 8)

Mortlake P–12 College is participating in National Ride to School Day. This initiative provides a wonderful opportunity to promote physical activity, road safety awareness and positive community engagement, while encouraging our students to start the day in a healthy and active way.

Details of the day are as follows:

8am – Depart DC Farren Oval, Mortlake riding to Mortlake College
3.30pm - Depart Bike Shelter Mortlake College riding to DC Farren Oval

Senior leaders will be present and will assist with the morning and afternoon rides. However, as this is an out-of-school event, families will need to provide their own supervision for students who are not confident riders or who require one-on-one support.

Events like Ride to School Day help build confidence, independence and healthy habits, while also showcasing our students positively within the wider Mortlake community. Further details, including supervision arrangements, safety expectations and permission requirements, will be shared with families once planning is finalised.

We thank Amy Lodge and our senior student leaders for their initiative in supporting opportunities that promote wellbeing and active lifestyles across the college.

House Athletics Sports – Monday 23rd March

Our whole-school House Athletics Sports will be held on Monday 23rd March on the school oval here at the college. This is always a fantastic day that brings our school community together, celebrating participation, teamwork and House spirit.

Families are warmly invited to join us as spectators and support our students throughout the day. We encourage all students to come dressed in their House colours and get involved in the range of events and activities on offer.

Further details regarding the schedule for the day will be shared with families via Compass closer to the event. We look forward to another positive and energetic day of athletics across the college.

Open Morning and Community Breakfast – Wednesday 22nd April

Mortlake P12 College warmly invites all members of our community to attend our Open Morning and Community Breakfast.

The morning will begin with a Community Breakfast at 8:00am, providing a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, connect with staff, and celebrate our school community.

Following breakfast, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in school tours and learn more about our learning programs. We will also be sharing important information about the 2027 enrolment process for both Prep and Year 7 students.

We strongly encourage all Mortlake College families to attend and help showcase the welcoming and supportive community that makes our school such a special place. Your presence helps future families see the strength and spirit of our College.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Primary Easter Hat Parade

Students will be participating in an Easter Hat Parade following the Primary End of Term Assembly at 9:00am on Thursday 2nd April.

Students will create their Easter hats at school as part of the celebrations. Donations of craft materials to support this activity are always greatly appreciated.

We look forward to seeing the wonderful creativity of our students during this fun end-of-term tradition.

School Council Update:

The election process for the 2026–2027 School Council has now closed. We warmly welcome our newest members Sherree Madzarevic, Zavier Fowler and Ella Maher to the team.

There are no other changes to the composition of School Council. Our 2026–2027 membership is as follows:

Parent Representatives: Bruce Goddard, Chloe Jewell, Jenna Clark, Rachel Robertson, Prue Sagnol, Tess Lamont and Sherree Madzarevic

Staff Representatives: Linda Mooseek, Brooke Baker, Anne DeManser and Amy Lodge

Student Representatives: Zavier Fowler and Ella Maher

We thank all members for their continued commitment to governance and to the strategic direction of our college.

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Our Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday 31st March. This is an open meeting, and all members of our school community are welcome to attend. The AGM will include reports from our various committees, as well as the presentation of the Annual Report to the School Community.

The AGM will be followed by our next General Meeting, which is a closed meeting for School Council members.

The 2025–2026 School Council met for the final time on Tuesday 24th February. At this meeting, members received and discussed reports from: The Principal, Finance Committee, Buildings and Grounds Committee, and our Student Representative.

We are excited to share that a Mortlake College Year 6 jumper has been approved and will be available shortly for purchase. Samples for the proposed new school uniform have also been ordered and will be available for viewing, prior to a final decision being made, in due course.

School Council also approved the date for Parent–Student–Teacher Interviews on Thursday 30th April and endorsed the following policies: Anaphylaxis, Asthma Management, Traffic Management, Year 12 Attendance, Finance, Cash Handling, Electronic Funds Management and Purchasing Card.

A discussion also took place regarding potential changes to the PE uniform policy. It was decided that no changes would be made, and secondary students will continue to change into their PE uniform prior to sessions.

School Council engaged in discussion regarding the 2026 Annual Implementation Plan prior to formally endorsing the plan. Priority areas for 2026 include:

Strengthening literacy and numeracy outcomes across all year levels
Embedding consistent instructional practices across P–12
Enhancing student wellbeing and engagement
Strengthening student voice and leadership opportunities
Building staff capacity through targeted professional learning
Continuing to strengthen community partnerships

We thank our School Council members for their dedication and thoughtful contributions. Strong governance plays a vital role in ensuring the continued growth and success of our college.

Update for Families - AEU Negotiations and Possible Industrial Action

As parents and carers may be aware, staff at our school who are members of the Australian Education Union (AEU) have been involved in negotiations with the Victorian Government and the Department of Education regarding improvements to pay and employment conditions. These negotiations involve teachers, education support staff, assistant principals and principals from public schools across Victoria.

Discussions have been ongoing for approximately seven months, and at this stage the state government has not yet made a formal offer.

As part of this process, AEU members are currently voting on whether to endorse potential industrial action. The union has indicated that if negotiations do not progress, a statewide 24-hour stop work is scheduled for Tuesday 24th March.

Supporting Families with School Costs – Saver Plus

We would like to share information about Saver Plus, a free financial education and savings program funded by the Department of Social Services. This program is designed to support families during key school transition periods and help ease the pressure of education-related expenses.

Families who join the program can receive:

Up to $500 in matched savings to assist with educational costs such as laptops, uniforms, books, school camps, technology and more.
Access to practical money management workshops delivered online in an engaging and accessible format.
Ongoing support from a Saver Plus savings coach throughout their savings journey.

Saver Plus has supported thousands of Australian families to build financial confidence and prepare for school expenses in a planned and manageable way.

If you would like to learn more about the program or check eligibility requirements by searching “Saver Plus Australia” online.

Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) – Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF), which helps eligible families cover the costs of school camps, excursions and sporting activities.

In 2026, the CSEF payment has increased to $400 per eligible student, for both primary and secondary students. This is a significant increase from previous years and is designed to further support student participation in important school experiences.

Who is eligible?

Families may be eligible to apply if they:

Hold a valid means-tested concession card
Are foster parents
Have students aged 16 years and over who are considered mature minors and hold a valid concession card
recently arrived asylum seeker or refugee families (special consideration category)

Important dates

Applications close on 26th June 2026

Families who received CSEF funding in 2025 do not need to submit a new application for 2026 unless their family circumstances have changed. We are able to copy applications from 2025 to 2026.

Families who believe they may be eligible are encouraged to contact the school office for an application form or further information.

Important Upcoming Dates

NAPLAN Testing Begins: Wednesday 11th March (Years 3, 5, 7, and 9)
House Athletic Sports (Whole School): Monday 23rd March
School Council AGM and General Meeting: Tuesday 31st March
Term 1 Student Reports uploaded onto Compass: Thursday 2nd April
Last Day of Term 1 Thursday 2nd April, 2:30pm dismissal for students (Friday – Good Friday)

An Easter Hat Parade for Primary aged students will take place after the 9am Primary Assembly

First day of Term 2: Monday 20th April
Community Open Morning: Community Breakfast, School Tours, and 2027 Enrolment Information: Wednesday 22nd April
Teacher-Student-Parent Interviews: Thursday 30th April

Our school team is always here to support our students and families. Please reach out to us at any time if you have questions or need assistance.

Linda Mooseek

Mortlake P-12 College Principal

Birthdays

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE FOLLOWING STUDENTS FOR MARCH