Guling - School Update

Term 2 - where students really begin to shine     (and get used to the cold) 

Growth is the word that best captures all that is happening at our school. This year, we undertook a major overhaul of the teaching and learning program, with the aim of continually improving student outcomes, creating a predictable and productive routine, and ensuring every student is provided with an exceptional learning experience. While Term 1 highlighted the curriculum changes and showcased our wonderful science program, this term we turn our attention to the incredible growth shown by our students, your young people. 

The Year 7s now move through the school with confidence and ease, working diligently in small maths and reading groups each morning. The Year 8s have embraced the changes and are exploring exceptional texts in reading groups, including the writing of Archie Roach, alongside targeted maths groups, building a strong foundation as they begin to look ahead to what comes next. 

Clear themes have emerged across the school under the new routines: students articulating and demonstrating positive behaviour choices, exceptional academic engagement, ownership of learning through goal setting, and, through all the change, the growth of a positive, supportive peer culture. 

At the start of Term 1, the Year 7s held their first school assembly, a shock to the system and a huge step amid so much change. Last week, we watched the first assembly of Term 2, also run by the Year 7s, and words can't quite capture how impressive they were. The growth in confidence, poise and strength to stand and speak to their peers was clear, and the photos show just how captivated their teachers and peers were. It was a wonderful sight and a moment of proud reflection for all of us here at school. How far they've come already is remarkable, and the growth still to come will no doubt be just as inspiring. 

Partnerships 

Term 2 is a highlight for most of our young people at MITS, especially the Year 7s, as we dive into some incredible partnerships. These partnerships offer unique experiences across both academic and sporting areas. Our science program with Melbourne University is in full swing with chemistry units underway. 

MUMA supports a term-long project, bringing in an exceptional artist to share their craft and support students in creating outstanding pieces. This year, Nicholas Currie from the Mununjali clan of the Yugambeh language group, is working with the students to create ceramic footballs. 

St Martins is running drama workshops, BluEarth is supporting our sports program, and last but not least, our partnership with KGI and the Richmond Football Club continues to flourish. Year 7 students attended the annual Yiooken Lunch at Punt Road Oval and joined the team for training. Next up, the Year 8’s head to the MCG for the KGI Dreamtime Expo. All students will attend the Dreamtime game, where a lucky few will form part of the guard of honour, and hopefully you'll spot some hand-painted boots out on the field, all designed and created by MITS students. Watching our students represent themselves and MITS so confidently across each of these experiences is yet another testament to the growth on display this term. 

By Taylor Culpepper

Acting Head of School