LAST DAY 2024

As the final bell rang, we bid farewell to the VCE VM Class of 2024, a cohort that has filled our year with excitement, reflection, and a deep sense of achievement. It has been a journey packed with countless presentations, ambitious projects, memorable excursions, insightful incursions, challenging coursework, and VET achievements, all culminating in the growth of these incredible students.

The year has been one of resilience and dedication, with students pushing themselves to excel in their structured workplace learning and vocational pathways. The VM team couldn't be prouder of what this class has accomplished—each moment has added to a collective narrative of perseverance, camaraderie, and success.

While there is sadness in saying goodbye, we reflect on the incredible milestones reached and the memories made. This group of young people has shown us the true meaning of grit and determination, leaving a legacy we will treasure. Their achievements are a testament to the strength of our team and the power of applied learning. We wish them all the best as they continue to soar in their future endeavors.

YEAR 12 FINAL PRESENTATIONS

During Week 6, our Year 12 VCE VM students returned to school for their final presentations, culminating two years of applied learning and personal growth. These presentations took place in the Conference Room, creating a formal atmosphere for students to demonstrate the employability skills they've honed through the VCE VM program. The panel, consisting of teachers and occasionally our Principal, Laura Spence, was a supportive but discerning audience, encouraging students to showcase the practical skills and knowledge they’ve gained.

Each student presented a hybrid folio they had meticulously curated, professionally printed, and bound. These folios, blending personal reflections, skill evidence, and vocational goals, showcased their journey in the VCE VM program. This hybrid format allowed them to express their career aspirations creatively and mirrored the professionalism expected in the workforce.

The experience was more than a final task; it was a comprehensive review of their readiness for the real world. Through these presentations, students demonstrated critical employability skills such as effective communication, organization, and self-reflection. They shared insights into how the program equipped them to succeed in their chosen vocations by cultivating a strong work ethic, resilience, and adaptability.

This presentation reinforces our commitment to preparing students not just academically but professionally and personally, instilling them with skills and values that will benefit them in any career path they pursue.

Good luck – Class of 2025!

PENINSULA APPLIED AWARDS

On Tuesday, 22nd October, Andrew Hemsley, Kellie Lindemann, and Brad Gauci were proud to attend the Peninsula Applied Awards at Mornington Racecourse. The event highlighted the incredible outcomes achieved by thousands of students across the peninsula. Each award was a testament to the hard work and dedication VCE VM students who have stood out in their

studies and vocational pursuits. The stories of growth and transformation were genuinely inspiring, showcasing the positive impact of applied learning on individuals and the community.

It reminded us that applied learning is not just about academic success but about equipping students with the skills, resilience, and mindset to thrive in the real world. As a team, we left the evening feeling inspired and incredibly proud of Ruby Granger, who was awarded the Excellence Award; Riley Noble, who was awarded the Growth Award; and finally, Alyssa Vella, who was awarded the Industry Award – well done!!

23KM GRATTITUDE WALK TO MORDIALLOC

“Reflecting on the 22km walk from McClelland College to Mordialloc, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and joy. The journey we undertook under the banner of “We walked for change” was a powerful way to raise funds for Fusion and support youth homelessness. With over 70 students from the VCE VM program joining in, the energy was electric from the very start.

My friends and I were excited to take the lead, music blasting from our speaker as we set the pace for the group. It was incredible to feel that camaraderie, united by a common purpose. The laughter, the shared stories, and the occasional dance move turned the challenge of the long distance into a fun adventure. We were determined to finish and enjoy every moment along the way.

As we walked, I couldn’t help but reflect on the impact of our efforts. Each step reminded us of why we were doing this—raising awareness for youth homelessness and contributing to a cause affecting many. Our conversations with classmates and the supportive atmosphere made the kilometres fly by. We were not just walking; we were creating a movement together.

When we finally reached Mordialloc and arrived at the park near the pier, a wave of relief and accomplishment washed over us. The sight of the support crew cooking delicious bacon and egg rolls, and sausages was the perfect reward for our hard work. The smell alone was enough to lift our spirits even higher. Sharing those meals with friends, recounting the day’s highlights, and enjoying the beautiful seaside setting created an unforgettable end to our journey.

This experience was about so much more than just completing a long walk. It reinforced the importance of community, collaboration, and making a difference in the lives of others. I left feeling inspired and grateful for the food and fun, and the chance to contribute to a cause that matters. This walk reminded us that we can make a change together—one step at a time.”

Maxwell Hatherall

WE RAISED OVER $5000 FOR THE GOOD NEIGHBOUR PROJECT – YOUTH HOMELESSNESS ON THE PENINSULA

POSSUM BOXES

In week 3, some Year 11 VCE VM students delivered to Ballam Park Primary habitat boxes they had designed and built for possums.

Ballam Park PS contacted McClelland College, asking for assistance finding a solution for their possum problem. The possums had decided that living in the school buildings was much more comfortable than living in a hollow in a tree. The problem with this is the mess they leave in the form of pellets. The boxes were made from recycled materials such as old table tops and designed to provide a safe and inviting home for possums.

The Ballam Park students will decorate the boxes, and then the VM students will install them on trees around the primary school. The students have researched the prime position and orientation of the boxes, considering the prevailing wind and other weather conditions.

We are excited to give you more updates once the boxes have been installed.

SWL – McCLELLAND STUDENTS DO IT AGAIN!

When McClelland students go out on Work Placement or are completing an SBAT, rarely, the VCE VM team doesn’t hear about the positive impact they have in our community. Congratulation Jaz!

STUDENT: Jazmine Beveridge

EMPLOYER: Frankston City Council

TYPE OF WORK: Local Government – Library

Every staff member who met with and worked with Jazmine was amazed by her enthusiasm, willingness to learn, interest in the roles she was learning about, and independence when provided with tasks. Jazmine was one of the best work-experience students the library has seen, and everyone was so grateful for her time there.

Sarah Meade – Team Leader Libraries Well done, Jaz!

Conservation and Ecosystems SBAT Graduation Ceremony

On Friday, we had the pleasure of celebrating the graduation of our trainees who completed the Conservation and Ecosystems School-Based Apprenticeship and Training (SBAT).

Advance employs the trainees two days a week. They engage in a combination of theoretical and practical education to improve and enhance the landscaping on school grounds.

This year's projects included constructing pathways, retaining walls, and steps and extensive planting of native species in the North Landing area near the synthetic courts. Additionally, groundwork has been laid for establishing a sensory garden, which will benefit next year's trainees.

Congratulations to all the successful graduates! A special mention goes to Locky Holley, named runner-up Apprentice of the Year, and to Jayden Whatmore, who was recognized as Apprentice of the Year.

UPCOMING DATES

11th - 21st November - Structured Workplace Learning

21st November - VCE VM Valedictory

22nd November - VCE VM 11 Celebration Day

25th - 26th November - Curriculum Planning - 2 days (Students not required at school)

27th November - Head Start begins

28th November - VCE VM 11/12 Assembly

21st December - End of term

McClelland College Central Australia Tour 2025