Around the Campuses
Janet Clarke Hall Visit
On 12th May 2025, John and myself were accompanied by Ms Howard and Mr Dowie to attend the annual formal Literature Dinner at Janet Clarke Hall, a Residential College at the University of Melbourne. It was an unforgettable evening with a treasure trove of insight into college life and community; the dinner service was impeccable and the array of intellectually stimulating people was incredibly warm and welcoming. I was especially fascinated by the college's rich cultural history and its diverse collection of classical literature which opened up insightful discussions into the college’s heritage and literary influences upon its occupants.
As the night panned out we were pleasantly entertained by guest speakers such as Ariel Zeleznikow Johnston on his newly released scientific novel ‘The Future Loves You’. Here we engaged in discussions about his novel and its deeper implications. This inspired much enlightening conversation and at one point of the evening I found myself conversing with the well acclaimed Australian author Alice Pung, which for me became one of the highlights of such a marvellous event.
Attending the formal Literature Dinner at Janet Clarke Hall with John, Ms Howard and Mr. Dowie has become one of the central milestones of my year 12 journey, it has provided me with rare insight into college life and better equipped me for tertiary education. Being invited was an honour that I am eternally grateful for having had the chance to experience.
By Ciara Allen
Thank you all for welcoming us at Janet Clarke Hall. Everyone was so friendly and immediately welcoming from the moment we walked into the doors. I got to meet with and learn about people that I’d never met before, introducing me to new perspectives and different personalities; especially in regard to the big topic of the night: Mind Preservation. I admired the food service and the great amount of preparation and effort that everyone put into setting up the night for everyone to have dinner, from the waiters to the chefs and the MC. Everything flowed smoothly along with dinner as well as the conversations which established relationships between strangers: moreover the food was also amazing! Overall I definitely enjoyed my experience and would definitely consider residential colleges like Janet Clarke Hall. Thank you very much!
By John Pakoti
***********************************************************************************************
Sports Update
I am delighted to share some fantastic news from our Year 7 and 8 students who have recently represented our school in both netball and badminton competitions. Their enthusiasm, teamwork, and sportsmanship were outstanding, and they achieved some excellent results that we can all be proud of.
Badminton:
- Year 7 girls – Keilor Division Champions!! They have progressed to the Western Metro competition in week 10.
- Year 7 boys made the final and placed 2nd to St Albans SC
- Year 8 girls made the final and placed 2nd to St Albans SC
- Year 8 boys made the final and placed 2nd to St Albans SC
Netball:
- Year 7 girls, 2nd place to Gilson College
- Year 8 boys, 2nd place to Gilson College
- Year 8 girls, 2nd place to Gilson College
Well done to the Boys Intermediate AFL Team who also won two of their three games and showed great sportsmanship!
A huge congratulations to all the students involved and a heartfelt thank you as well to all staff who coached and supported these events.
Miss Adam
Junior Sports Coordinator
**********************************************************************************************
Trade and Tech Fit Expo
On 4th June, a group of our Year 10 to 12 students attended the Trades and Tech Fit Expo at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, which aims to broaden female and gender diverse students’ study and career possibilities. Students were able to experience a range of education, training and employment options in the trade and technology industries. The expo provided many hands-on opportunities and our amazing students got right in there!
Kristy Muratore
Careers Coordinator
********************************************************************************************
VCE Chemistry Excursion - University of Melbourne
On Friday 6th June, Year 12 VCE Chemistry students participated in an outreach program facilitated by the Chemistry Department at the University of Melbourne. The program provided students with hands-on experience in analysing unknown samples using Mass Spectrometry, Infrared Spectroscopy, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) techniques. This excursion offered invaluable insight and practical understanding directly related to VCE Chemistry Unit 4, Outcome 2: instrumental analysis of organic compounds.
Here are some students' reflections of the day:
Jasey Chu Pham 12G
During our chemistry excursion at the University of Melbourne, we were able to get a glimpse into what it was like to work in the lab, as we investigated key principles and took part in practical applications about organic chemistry. We were able to experimentally determine molecular compounds and structural features using the laboratory’s equipment, including spectrometry machines. It was a great experience for our VCE Chemistry class to not only extend our knowledge of organic chemistry but to work collaboratively, alongside our peers and lab technicians at the university.
David Lekha 12H
Stepping into the laboratories at the University of Melbourne gave our VCE Chemistry class an exciting taste of real scientific investigation. We had the unique opportunity to work with professional-grade equipment and apply our theoretical knowledge to practical challenges. A fascinating part of this was using various methods of spectroscopy to determine mystery compounds, while working alongside current students and lab specialists, we gained valuable experience in interpreting data and drawing evidence-based conclusions. The chance to experience this university-level chemistry while still in secondary school was both inspiring and educational, giving us a new perspective on where our chemistry studies could lead.
Remy Nguyen 12E
Our year 12 chemistry class was gifted the opportunity to visit the University of Melbourne's laboratories to experience the true scientific investigations. With cutting-edge technology and professionals in the field, we were blessed with a clearer view on spectroscopy and the various methods used in the lab. Working out unknown compounds challenged our critical thinking, forcing us to dig deep into our chemistry knowledge. We learnt how to utilise the technology related to spectroscopy and learnt to analyse and interpret data that we found. We are very lucky to have the chance to experience this upper level of chemistry that other schools might not have. This excursion gave us a new perspective on the topics we learnt in class and a fresh insight on the potential pathways we can take after finishing secondary school.
Rebekah Epa 12E
During our VCE chemistry excursion to the University of Melbourne, our class was afforded a rare and insightful opportunity to engage in the instrumental analysis of six unidentified organic compounds within a professional laboratory setting. Utilising advanced equipment, we were able to apply our theoretical understanding of Mass Spectrometry and Infrared Spectroscopy to the practical challenge of elucidating the structures of these unknown substances. Collaborating closely with current university students and experienced laboratory specialists, we honed our skills in data interpretation and the formulation of evidence-based conclusions. This immersive experience was both enlightening and unique, offering us a tangible sense of how our studies in chemistry could translate into real-world scientific inquiry and future academic or professional pathways.
Salinna Bui 12D
Our chemistry excursion, held at the University of Melbourne, provided us with an opportunity to apply our knowledge and understanding of organic chemistry regarding spectrometry. During the excursion, we engaged in hands-on learning utilising advanced laboratory equipment like infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. From this, we were able to collect and analyse data to assist us in identifying the chemical compound in a given sample of solutions. Working with professional scientists and researchers allowed us to gain insight on the practical and collaborative environment in the lab.
Joshua Hussey 12H
As someone new to Chemistry, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the day really opened my eyes to how fascinating and practical the subject can be beyond the classroom. We used real lab equipment and explored techniques like IR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry where it felt surreal working in a high-tech university lab guided by expert staff. A highlight was using the data we gathered to identify unknown organic compounds—applying classroom theory to real-world problem-solving. My favourite part was the interpreting and analysing of spectral graphs; being stumped at first, the collaborative problem-solving and then the eventual success in identifying our unknown compounds. The experience gave me a taste of scientific research in general but left me even more excited to keep learning Chemistry.
********************************************************************************************
Forensics at Deakin University
During our recent excursion to Deakin University in Geelong, we got a real taste of what it’s like to be a forensic scientist. The day started with a realistic mock crime scene, where we had to collect and examine different types of evidence, including a knife, blood stains, fingerprints, sticky notes, and an unknown white powder.
We used fingerprint dusting techniques to lift prints, and we compared handwriting on sticky notes to match them to a suspect. In the lab, we analysed the blood samples using DNA charts and tested the powder with chemical solutions to identify possible drugs.
It was a fun, exciting, and eye-opening experience that showed us how science and investigation work together to solve crimes. We learned how detailed and careful forensic work needs to be, and how much teamwork it takes to uncover the truth.
By Navkaran (Navi) Bashin 9G
**********************************************************************************************
Year 10 Art Creative Practice and Visual Communication Design Excursion
The Year 10 Art Creative Practice & Visual Communication Design students visited the National Gallery of Victoria and the State Library of Victoria on May 26th, 2025. The students explored a wide collection of artworks that formed a basis for inspiration and analysis in class. The second workshop was held at the State Library of Victoria where students were led by Miss McAsey & Miss Fisicaro through a guided tour of the library, followed by a one-point perspective and two-point perspective drawing session of the interior of the State Library.
*********************************************************************************************
STEM and INCLUSION
Our STEM lunchtime activity embraces INCLUSION, ensuring that every student, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to participate and thrive. As an education support tutor, I work alongside my team and team leader to create an accessible, engaging space where students of all backgrounds can explore hands-on science activities which includes problem-solving and teamwork. We started with just four students, and their enthusiasm continues to grow. By troubleshooting challenges, refining projects, and collaborating, they not only develop STEM skills but also strengthen confidence and social connections. Our goal is to foster a learning environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to innovate.
Many thanks to Keryn Stewart for giving up her office and lunchtime to support the students and the DI team initiatives!
Ms Aysha Mohamed
Learning Support
********************************************************************************************
Gardening Club @ Junior Campus
Interested in gardening? Come along to the Gardening Club at lunch time on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Junior Campus with Ms Grant. The Club is led by the students’ interests and will form part of a larger plan to improve the gardens of the campus.
The goal which the students have identified for 2025 is:
to improve biodiversity through restoring habitat for Victoria’s native plants and animals. This is supported with a Junior Landcare Grant and Victorian Schools Gardening Grant.
Gardening Club students recently participated in Clean Up Australia Day, picking up rubbish around the Junior Campus. Thank you to these students and staff for contributing to a cleaner environment for us all!
*************************************************************************************************
Breakfast Club - All students welcome!
Come along for some toast, milk, fruit and snacks!
Junior Campus Tuesdays and Thursdays
8:15—8:55am in Room A4
Senior Campus Wednesdays and Fridays
8:15am—8:45am in the Building B kitchen
********************************************************************************************
Lunchtime Games - All welcome!
Junior Campus
Board games every Tuesday and Thursday in Room C01
Senior Campus
Console games every Friday in Room D11
Board games every Wednesday and Thursday in D15
*************************************************************************************************