PRINCIPAL REPORT 

JUNE 2026 

LEARNING 

During the second half of this term, staff have continued professional learning in the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model (VTLM) 2.0. For many years, Mount Eliza Secondary College has implemented an inquiry-based instructional model that aligns strongly with our identity as an International Baccalaureate (IB) school. 

As we transition into the VTLM framework, staff are increasingly developing their understanding of the pedagogical approach of 'I Do, We Do, You Do', underpinned by the principle of gradual release of responsibility. In classrooms this approach, we are seeing positive outcomes, including increased active learning, improved on-task behaviours, and a reduction in cognitive load for students. 

As we transition into second semester, can I please ask families to check levies for new classes on COMPASS. Contributions really do go a long way to enhance your student’s experience.

WELLBEING  

Our Positive Classroom Management Strategies (PCMS) Team of staff has continued to build its understanding of this Department of Education approach to creating calm and productive classrooms. Team members have undertaken numerous classroom observations and are providing teachers with timely feedback that acknowledges areas of strength while identifying opportunities for growth and refinement. 

Our Curriculum Day early next term will further strengthen our wellbeing focus. Staff will participate in professional learning facilitated by Courage to Care, an organisation that educates students and communities about the Holocaust and the importance of standing against prejudice and discrimination. We will also continue our work with Collette Davies through our second session focused on deepening our understanding of trauma-informed practices and how these approaches can support positive learning environments for all students. 

Cluster Work with Primary Schools – Mount Eliza North PS, Mount Eliza PS and Kunyung PS

We have completed our rounds of classroom observations across the four schools in our cluster. Next term, representatives from each school will come together to identify patterns of student behaviours and learning approaches in Mathematics. This work will inform the development of a shared inquiry and action plan aimed at strengthening teaching and learning practices across our schools. 

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS 

The upstairs building works remain on schedule for completion at the beginning of Term 4. Plastering is well underway, glazing has been completed, and we are now beginning to consider furniture options for the new learning spaces. 

We have also received funding from the Department of Education's Sustainable Schools initiative and the Mount Eliza Rotary Club to undertake beautification works behind the Senior Learning Centre. Some of our VCE Vocational Major (VM) students will work alongside our maintenance team to design and create this space, providing authentic learning opportunities and fostering student ownership of the environment. 

READY TO LEARN 

Most of our student have transitioned well into our winter uniform, and ready to learn with appropriate materials for the change of semester. 

PHONES!! Are sneaking back. They are not to be on a student’s person during the school day. Please take the time to re familiarise yourselves with materials lists, MOBILE-AND-PERSONAL-DEVICE-POLICY-2026.pdf and the student STUDENT-DRESS-CODE-POLICY-Review-Sept-2026.pdf to ensure they are ready for a day at school. Unfortunately, staff are having to spend valuable time with students that are choosing not to follow reasonable expectations, impacting their and other learning time.

I am heading on a bucket list trip to WA, taking some long service leave for the first 2 weeks of term 3. Celeste Lombardi will be Acting Principal during this time.

Danni Vaughan

Principal