Guling - School Update

I recently returned from paternity leave, and one of the highlights of being back at MITS has been seeing just how quickly students have settled into the term. I've loved walking through classrooms and having students eagerly share their work, show me what they are proud of, and talk about what they have been achieving. There is a real sense of purpose across the school at the moment. 

One thing that has stood out over the first few weeks of Term 3 is the respect our students have shown. We often talk about respect for others, but an equally important part of respect is how we see ourselves as learners. Respecting ourselves means turning up ready to learn, having a go when things are challenging, taking pride in our work and recognising that education is something worth investing in. Across the school, we have seen many examples of students demonstrating this through their effort, engagement and willingness to challenge themselves. 

In particular, that has been evident in a range of experiences already this term. In Science, students have been investigating concepts such as light, sound and forces, with our Year 7 students recently put their learning into action by designing and launching bottle rockets. 

Our Year 8 students have begun their involvement in the Yalinguth Project. In the Woi wurrung language, Yalinguth means "yesterday". Through visits, creative workshops and conversations, students are exploring stories, history and culture while making connections between place, identity and their own experiences. They will work towards creating a radio program and creative showcase later this year, and have already represented MITS exceptionally well through the respect they have shown towards Elders, facilitators and one another. 

Another highlight has been our partnership with the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM). Over five workshops, Year 8 students have worked alongside ANAM musicians to create an original performance for the MITS Celebration of the Arts. Combining spoken word, singing, yidaki, percussion and live orchestration, the project has given students a unique opportunity to shape and perform an original piece of music. 

This week marks the beginning of a four-week swimming lesson program across the school as part of Health & PE. Swimming is an important life skill and another opportunity for students to challenge themselves and build confidence. 

We have been excited to see students stepping forward into leadership opportunities, with recent captain and SRC speeches showcasing courage, confidence and a willingness to contribute to our school community. 

Across all of these experiences, students have continued to demonstrate respect alongside pride and curiosity. It has been fantastic to see the amazing young people at MITS embracing the many opportunities, challenging themselves and growing in their learning. We look forward to sharing more of their progress throughout the term. 

Michael Barnhoorn 

Head of School