VCE News

Year 12 Camp

Within the first week of the 2024 school year, our Year 12 VCE students were off on an overnight Study Camp to Monash University.  The aim of the camp was to build skills and positive relationships for a successful 2024. 

Students boarded the coach and arrived at Mannix College, accommodation for the night, which was located directly opposite Monash University.  Students collected keys and accessed their individual dorm rooms, some were lucky enough to have the added bonus of a balcony! 

The group then commenced the short walk across to the University campus.  Students spent the remainder of the morning and afternoon engaged in a variety of activities, which included;   A Monash presentation, an ‘Amazing Race’ to familiarise themselves with the campus, Mini Lessons followed by Q & A with McClelland College alumni and a presentation on study scores and ATARs .  Students then were able to break off into small groups and explore the many eateries that Monash University has to offer.  The day wrapped up with ‘Team Building Activities’ back at Mannix College, run by Mr Hemsley, Mr Blight, MR Carlton and Ms Murphy, with many students stating this was the highlight of the camp!

After breakfast on day two, students participated in a range of sessions aimed to build study skills and a positive mindset to tackle the year ahead.  These included sessions covering goal setting, mindfulness, having a growth mindset, overcoming obstacles, healthy habits and habit hacking.  Students fully engaged with these sessions and have since applied several of these skills to their studies.  After a very busy couple of days, it was then time to explore the cafes and restaurants again for lunch before boarding the bus back to school.

The behaviour and conduct of our students throughout the camp must be commended.  It was exemplary and they represented our college in the best light possible. 

ABCN's Women in Leadership Conference

We are thrilled to highlight a unique and insightful session as part of the Australian Business and Community Network's (ABCN) Women in Leadership Focus program, hosted at a prominent law office in the heart of the city. This session marks the first of three in a series designed to provide young women with the essential leadership skills necessary for a successful and impactful career.

The recent session unfolded within the dynamic environment of a law office, allowing our students to immerse themselves in the corporate world. Working in small groups, they had the invaluable opportunity to engage with accomplished female executives who graciously served as both role models and mentors. This real-world interaction added a practical dimension to the learning experience, offering a glimpse into the day-to-day challenges and successes of women in leadership roles within the legal profession.

The session's core focus was on introducing the students to various leadership styles prevalent in the corporate landscape. From authoritative to transformational, the students gained insights into the nuances of these styles and how they manifest within a legal setting. The immersive nature of the law office provided a tangible context for understanding the practical applications of leadership theories.

We extend our gratitude to ABCN for orchestrating this enriching experience and to the law office for generously hosting this session. Our young women left the law office not only with a deeper understanding of leadership styles but also with newfound inspiration and motivation to pursue their aspirations in the legal field.

Deakin University Excursion

We are thrilled to share the exciting experience our Year 11 students had during their recent excursion to Deakin University. The visit included a comprehensive presentation and an insightful campus tour, providing valuable opportunities for our students to explore various career pathways and academic options.

During the presentation, students received a glimpse into the diverse range of study areas offered at Deakin, setting the stage for informed decision-making about their future academic pursuits. The campus tour allowed them to immerse themselves in the vibrant university atmosphere and discover the world-class facilities that Deakin has to offer.

Experiencing university life firsthand is an invaluable aspect of the decision-making process, and this excursion served as an excellent platform for our students to start envisioning their academic journey beyond high school. The opportunity to engage with Deakin's staff and students, coupled with the chance to explore on-campus student accommodation, provided a holistic view of university life.

Staff vs Student Events

The annual Staff vs Student competition has started with a bang!  Our Class of 2024 took an early lead with a stirring win in the water polo.  Despite some heroics by Mr Gauci in defence, Ms Adams on the wing, and Mr Carlton up forward, the overwhelming numbers of Year 12 students participating saw them get over the line.  Best on ground for the students included Evelyn Butler in defence, Oberon Mooney’s shut down job on Mr Hemsley, as well as the tireless Riley Noble in the centre.

More recently, the Year 12s faced off against the staff in a pictionary competition held in the IC.  Scores were neck and neck throughout the event, with some amazing (and also some questionable) drawings from both sides.  There were some outstanding artworks delivered by Sarah Spicer, Tori Mercuri and Gabe Franklin, while on the staff team Mr Carlton, Ms Geritz and Ms Bucher led the way.  Yet again though, the students prevailed on the day, storming home with a late win in the sudden death round.  

Never before has a Year 12 cohort led at this stage of the year!  The stage is set for a riveting showdown in the European Handball on Tuesday 19th March!