Connect Crew

2025 Year in Review

As we come to the end of the year, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the achievements, growth, and connections built within the Connect Program. This year has been one of learning, resilience, and meaningful progress for our students, and we are proud of the journey they have taken.

Building Relationships and Belonging

A core focus of Connect has been supporting students to develop positive relationships with peers and staff. Throughout the year, students have been provided with structured opportunities to practise social skills, build trust, and develop a sense of belonging. Many students have shown growth in initiating conversations, working cooperatively in groups, sustaining peer connections over time and are able to recognise those staff members who have made a meaningful impact on their time at Wantirna College

Engagement Through Hands-On Learning

Connect sessions incorporated practical and engaging activities such as games, creative tasks, team challenges, and projects designed to promote cooperation and problem-solving. These activities supported student engagement, encouraged participation, and provided natural opportunities to practise communication and teamwork skills in a supportive environment.

Individual Growth and Reflection

Students were encouraged to reflect on their learning, behaviour, and personal goals throughout the year. Many demonstrated increased insight into their own strengths and challenges, as well as an improved ability to reflect on choices and consider alternative responses. This reflective practice has been an important part of supporting student growth and accountability.

Collaboration and Support

The Connect Program has continued to strengthen partnerships both within the school and the wider community. This year, students proudly worked alongside organisations including Foodshare, the Templeton Tennis Club, Knox City Council, and Knox Community Christmas Support. These partnerships provided valuable opportunities for students to contribute meaningfully, build confidence, and see the positive impact of teamwork and community connection.

Through these collaborations, students have been involved in initiatives that promote responsibility, inclusion, and giving back to the community, reinforcing the importance of social responsibility and active participation. Ongoing communication and shared strategies have helped ensure consistency and support across learning environments.

Celebrating Our Connect Captains

This year we also farewell our Connect Captains, Angus and Mitch, who are moving on after successfully gaining full-time apprenticeships. Angus and Mitch have been positive role models within the Connect Program, demonstrating leadership, responsibility, and commitment to both the school and wider community. Their contributions to Connect have been valued and their growth over time has been wonderful to see. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and wish them every success as they begin this exciting new chapter in their careers.

Enhancing Our School Environment

This year also saw significant contributions from Connect students in improving our school spaces. Students were actively involved in caring for and developing the veggie patch, which has shown great growth and continues to be a point of pride for the program. We also supported the development of new seating near Mason House, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for students during breaks.

Additional achievements include assisting with the implementation of yellow line markings around the school grounds to support safe movement and transitions, as well as helping with the new setup in Mason House for the new SEL room. These projects have allowed students to develop practical skills, take ownership of their environment, and see the tangible outcomes of their efforts.

Looking Ahead

With these achievements behind us, we are excited about what lies ahead. There is so much more planned for next year as the Connect Program continues to grow and evolve. We look forward to building on these successes, expanding community partnerships, and creating even more opportunities for students. Keep an eye out for what’s to come next year.

Thank you to all students, families, staff, and community partners for your continued support and commitment to the Connect community. We wish everyone a safe, restful, positive end to the year and a very Merry Christmas

Courtney Moran & Lisa Jones

Connect Crew