CAPTAIN'S CORNER

SENIOR CAPTAIN

The past few weeks have consisted of many lasts, as after 1,169 days the class of 2024’s time at McKinnon has come to an end. From our last first day of term, last full day of classes, last general assembly, last walk to school, and final lunchtime trip to Sevs, there have been many moments spent thinking about what will be missed. 

On Tuesday superheroes, Tellie Tubbies, jail inmates, princesses, teen mums and inanimate objects, signed into classes instead of the Year 12s for our Dress Up Day. Following four periods of embracing our new looks and having our water guns confiscated by the Oompa Loompas, we headed to the Hall at lunch to reclaim the Wo(mankinnon) title for the second year running. Despite the efforts of the teaching staff who quite literally fell off the stage in desperation for the title, their mediocre dance moves were simply no match for our well-rehearsed choreography which earned us victory. 

Wednesday was our Uniform Signing Day. We detailed the memories shared, declared how much our friends really mean to us, and wished each other all the best for the next chapter. Reading back on all of these messages from peers and teachers was truly heartwarming, the relationships that are built at McKinnon are unmatched and will no doubt last beyond the school gates. 

At lunch, we had our Rave and then we took a moment to reminisce and have a laugh while we watched recreations of baby photos and the videos we had been making. This assembly is always a highlight for younger years. 

Valedictory was everyone's highlight of the week. Our whole cohort came together one last time with our parents to celebrate 13 years of schooling. For three hours all tears were put on hold as we received our certificates, had a delicious meal, danced with teachers and simply celebrated the huge achievement of graduation. 

Whilst there has no doubt been tears as we leave behind our home that has been the last six years, this time has also been one of celebration. 

Special shout out to Huddo (Year 12 student manager and Head Chef of the PE department) who is graduating with us this year! Thank you for everything you have done for McKinnon over the last 17 years. There will definitely be a hole once you're gone but you'll always be a part of our community. 

Yes, our time in the classroom may be up but we know that doors will always be open as we navigate the next chapter. And more importantly the special thing about McKinnon magic is that it never goes away. 

Chloe Apps

Year 12 Student

JUNIOR CAPTAIN

The beginning of the last term for 2024 began with a busy start with many excursions, events and learning tasks to kick everyone off. I hope everyone had a restful break but is now ready to face the hectic weeks ahead. 

For the current Year 9 History classes, students got to embark on an excursion to the city where they got tours of the Shrine of Remembrance and the NGV, both of which were to allow everyone to gain a better understanding of the upcoming World War I unit. Despite the majority of the students having been to the Shrine before, not many had had a proper tour, which explored the many facilities and artifacts on display. When on the balcony, we got to see magnificent views of the cityscape and learn more about the buildings surrounding it, opening an eye to the fact that the view was more complex. 

The NGV took students on a tour of some of the creative Australian pieces, specifically Aboriginal inspired ones. A popular student favourite was the mechanical artwork of water washing away paint and revealing a word written behind in a traditional Indigenous language. 

Meanwhile, Year 7s got to attend an excursion to the Melbourne Zoo as a part of their Science Classification unit. They were immersed into the world of many different species and got to simply admire animals of their choosing, while answering questions related to their upcoming project. From giraffes to seals, to monkeys to the butterfly enclosure, there was something for everyone and the Year 7 cohort got to leave with new profound knowledge. The day was a blast and everybody enjoyed the incredible experience of exploring the Melbourne Zoo and examining all different kinds of creatures. Everyone had an awesome time and some even left with newfound fears of specific animals.

I wish everyone an exciting term ahead and wish them good luck for their future studies!

Solomon Batkilin

Year 9 Student