From the Principal

Good morning everyone, our production, ‘Frozen Jr’ was an absolute success. We have so many talented students and committed staff. Staff go above and beyond to ensure we have a production each year, without their commitment, the show would not go on.

I would like to remind you of the mobile phone policy.

At Mornington Secondary College, our values of respect, achievement, and community guide every decision we make to ensure students have the best opportunities to thrive. One important way we uphold these values is through our ban on mobile phone use during school hours, in line with the Victorian Government’s Ministerial Order No. 1125. This order requires all students to have their mobile phones switched off and securely stored during school time, including recess and lunch.

This policy is not about taking something away — it’s about giving our students the freedom to focus, connect, and achieve. By keeping phones off and away, we show respect for the learning environment, allowing every student to engage without distraction. It also supports achievement, as students are more present, better able to concentrate, and more actively involved in lessons and activities. Finally, it strengthens our community by encouraging face-to-face interaction, building friendships, and fostering a culture of inclusion and connection.

We thank our students, staff, and families for working together to maintain this policy. By supporting each other, we ensure that Mornington Secondary College remains a place where learning comes first and every young person can reach their potential.

Thankyou for your support. Have a wonderful week.

Linda Stanton

Principal

Important Dates

Term 3 2025

Middle School

Snapshot of School Life at Middle School

Dear Parents and Carers,

This week, I decided to take some spontaneous photos capturing our students and daily school life.

I caught Abby, Beren, Rose and Jasmin as they entered the Year 8 locker bay to grab their items for class. A couple were heading to science, while the others were off to their Connect Class. I also met up with Evan and Ryder, who were also preparing for their lessons. Later I found more Year 8 students in Humanities class learning to investigate infrastructure in Melbourne, ahead of the City excursion they had on Thursday August 14th.

At lunchtime, I visited Ms Romage’s Craft Club for our Year 7 and 8 students. They were making colourful beaded bracelets, each with their own unique approach—choosing colours, planning patterns, and considering bead shapes. The room was filled with happy conversation and creativity.

I also attended the Year 11 “Have a Say Day” and spoke with a group of students about what excellence looks like in the classroom—for both students and teachers—and what it means for our community. Many of these students I have known since their junior years, and it was impressive to see how articulate and thoughtful they were in their discussions.

At the Year 7 “Have a Say Day,” the enthusiasm was just as strong, though their topics of interest were quite different from the senior students—unsurprisingly, the canteen and food options were a lively talking point!

Mason Smith spoke about his upcoming football match against Mt Eliza this weekend — we’ll be keen to hear how he goes.

In the classroom, Mr Walker had his students engaged in health topics, with everyone ready to dive into their workbooks.

Next door, Mrs Walker’s Year 7 Humanities class was busy researching Ancient Rome. The students are loving learning about the past and exploring ancient civilisations. I caught up with Charli, Ruby, and Layla, who told me they are thoroughly enjoying Humanities.

Meanwhile, Mrs Mackenzie and Carter Damon were deciding on their morning tea snacks. We agreed that the cold weather always seems to make us hungrier!

Denise Leggett

Assistant Principal

Senior School

To students and families of the Mornington Senior School,

We are halfway through August now and behind the scenes, we are working to complete the first phase of our course counselling process which ensures every student has put in their selections. We’ll then review student choices to determine which subjects have suitable popularity to run in 2026.

The next phase of course counselling will involve re-counselling of students who haven’t been able to be placed in their preferred subjects or their backups. I’ll also be working with the Year 11 team to review their choices for 2026 to see if they still tracking well in those subjects and/or are in the most appropriate pathway for their future.

VTAC account creation and course selection

This week our Year 12 ATAR students have been exploring the VTAC website using the course search function as they select their preferences for 2026. Next week students will be learning about the Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) which is a part of the application process focusing on equity for students who have faced various challenges during their VCE years.

VCE VM activities

Thank you to those who have already offered donations for VM Market Day. If you still had something of interest or you have any queries, please contact Kirsty Hamson (VCE VM PDS teacher) at kirsty.hamson@education.vic.gov.au.

Aerobics Nationals

Good luck to our Senior Aerobics’ Teams – Atkinspire and the Party Starters, who are competing in the National finals in sunny (or very cold and wet ☹) Hobart this weekend. I’ll be there supporting our fearless coach, Indie Jowett, to cheer them on! The girls always represent Mornington with pride and give their best effort! Go girls!

Term 3 2025

Kind regards,

Nick Evans

Senior School Assistant Principal

Let’s Get Together!

Semester 2 Parent Teacher Conferences are a great way to get information about how your child is progressing and how you can support them at home.

They are most effective when you and your child hear the same message, so please bring your child to the meeting.

This year the meetings will be held using a hybrid model: 

• 11:10am until 3pm interviews will be Face to Face at school
• 4:30pm until 7pm interviews will be remote (online) 

In your booking you will find a clickable link which will take you to a webex video conference room, (the same as last year for those who were with us in 2024).

For face to face interviews please remember that parking onsite is limited so allow time for this.

There will be NO staff onsite after 4pm. (All interviews will be remote)

Mike Parker

Assistant Principal - Curriculum and Student Wellbeing

School Contributions - Sporting Equipment Funds

Schools provide students with free instruction to fulfil the standard curriculum requirements and we want to remind you that all contributions are voluntary.

Nevertheless, the ongoing support of our families ensures that our school can offer the best possible education, support and resources for our students. We want to thank you for all your support. This has made a huge difference to our school and the programs we can offer. 

However, there are a number of areas that need further support. One of these areas is the Sporting Equipment Fund. It is simple to contribute and can be done via Compass. Every little bit helps, so if you haven't contributed already, please do. 

Our goal is to provide our students with safe, modern, and inclusive equipment that allows everyone to participate and thrive in physical activities and outdoor education learning opportunities. Your contribution can make a direct impact on the health, confidence and performance of your students.

Contributions towards the School Equipment Fund are needed to purchase:

• representative MSC sports uniforms
• equipment for inter school sports; footballs, soccer balls, netballs, badminton racquets, etc
• Outdoor Education equipment; tents, trangias, fuel bottles, sleeping mats and backpacks
• FIT Club equipment for PE classes and free lunchtime FIT Club (open to all MSC students) 

These items deteriorate through normal wear and tear, so annual contributions from families ensure our students can perform at their best. The recommended contribution for 2025 is $20 per student.

If you require further assistance on how to contribute, please contact our office team on Ph. 5970 0200 or via email.

Students of the Week

Year 7 Zarli Evans- Heigh

Favourite food: Mangoes

Hobbies out of school: Reading, friends

What sports team do you follow? Collingwood

Favourite movie/TV show: Vampire Diaries

Do you have any pets? A dog, 2 cats & a guinea pig

What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? Friends and the school production

What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? Actress

Year 7 Jasper Immelman 

Favourite food: Ramen 

Hobbies out of school: Basketball, spending time with family 

What sports team do you follow? Melbourne Demons

Favourite movie/TV show: Big Bang theory

Do you have any pets? 3 Cats named Snow Plum, Milo and Tom

What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? The teachers and the way they teach, my friends, Year 7 camp, recess and lunch, the Drum Corps program

What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? A mechanic 

Year 8 Ethan Corbett  

Favourite food: Spaghetti bolognese

Hobbies out of school: Playing piano and sailing

What sports team do you follow? GWS and Golden State Warriors

Favourite TV show: Adventure time

Do you have any pets? 2 cats, Narla and Georgia

What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? Being with my friends and Drum corp

What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? An underwater welder

Year 8 Beren Adiguzel     

Favourite food: Sushi

Hobbies out of school: Hanging out with mates and playing footy (AFL)

What sports team do you follow? Richmond

Favourite TV show: Ginny and Georgia

Do you have any pets? 2 dogs, Bonnie and Bella and a cat, Luna

What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? Being with my friends and learning new things

What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? I would like to be an architect

National Science Week

During National Science Week (August 9-17th), our MSC students learnt a variety of theory, got hands on with pracs, and listened to visiting guest speakers.

Year 7 Science

Students in 7D learnt about how all organisms have a role in an ecosystem. Students used the internet to discover 10 'mini beasts', aka small organisms, that may potentially be in our ecosystem at school. Neve managed to find some outside!

Year 8 Science

Students in 8A were encouraged to investigate how does heat make a difference? Reaction rates were recorded and compared between warm and cold temperatures. Prior to this reaction prac, 8A were treated to a 'teacher only' experiment demonstration involving an example of a combustion reaction helped by the presence of a catalyst. This involved sulfuric acid and potassium permanganate being added to a tissue with some ethanol. This experiment helped to 'warm up the crowd', and stink out the room!

VCE Chemistry

On Wednesday August 13th, as part of Science Week and to enhance their knowledge of organic molecules in medicine, the Year 11 and 12 Chemistry students participated in an interactive tutorial with David Manallack from Monash Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science Outreach programs.  

Students were able to see how what they are learning in Chemistry relates to the real life application to make life saving medicines.  Students were able to build models from scratch, starting small and building bigger molecules as well as cementing their knowledge of reaction pathways, just in time for their SAC on Friday!

Have a Say Days

This term students will have an opportunity to take part in our college 'Have A Say Days'. There will be a session for each separate year level, giving students a chance to provide their feedback in relation to current college focus areas, including excellence and college uniform. Year 12's kicked off the session on Tuesday August 5th and had robust discussions about how the college can move forward and strive for excellence, setting the tone for the year levels to follow. 

Students can nominate to be part of the sessions through their Connect teacher, or by contacting Mrs Vanin directly. At Mornington Secondary College, we value student voice and recognise that the student body are an important part of our community. That is why we want each student to take the opportunity to have their say. 

Jenny Vanin

Science/Health & PE Teacher

TFT School Aerobics National Championships 

This Saturday, the 16th of August, seven of our students are representing Mornington Secondary College at the TFT School Aerobics National Championships in Hobart! 

Our senior team 'Atkinspire' is made up of the following students: 

• Year 10: Mya Stynes 
• Year 11: Sophie Van Der Meer, Seren Chespy, Anna Begley
• Year 12: Eleanor Wright, Elise Bristow, Olivia Willis-Whitelaw 

Despite a few injuries and set backs throughout the year, these girls have stuck together and continued working hard to improve their routine after each competition. Everyone is constantly in awe of their stage presence and attention to detail, and it all comes down to the hours they put in behind the scenes. We are so proud of each and everyone one of them.

Seren Chespy and Sophie Van Der Meer are also competing as a duo (Party Starters) at the National Championships. This is the first duo MSC has ever had, so to make it this far in the competition is a huge achievement by Seren and Sophie. They have choregraphed their entire routine themselves and bring an infectious energy to every stage they perform on. These two students have been amazing role models to our younger squad members and continue to inspire and motivate everyone around them. 

I'd also like to shout out to two of our Year 12 students, Elise and Liv who will be competing on the National stage for the very first time this weekend. 

Both sections are looking very tough, but we know that our students will give it their all on the national stage. They have been working incredibly hard since the end of 2024 on these routines, and we couldn't be prouder of what they've already achieved. 

Finally, I'd like to thank the staff members who have helped us get this far. 

• Amy Salter for helping me train these teams in the lead up to our big competitions,
• Kylie Weirsma for donating her time and support to the squad in Term 1, and 
• Nick Evans who will be joining us on this year's Nationals trip. 

We are looking forward to a lovely weekend down in Hobart and can't wait to see our superstars perform! Good luck girls, you make our school very proud. 

Indie Jowett

Aerobics Squad Coach

School Sport

Intermediate Girls SMR Netball

Last Thursday, August 7th, our Year 9 girls made their way to Jubilee Park to compete in the SMR Year 9/10 Netball Competition.

We were struck with injuries before the day, with two of our key attackers out. Kayla Lindsay stepped up from Year 8 to fill the team.

The girls played a great team game in our first game against Mordialloc, winning by 4 goals. Our second game saw us take on Alkira. In the second quarter our GD went down hard and was ruled out for the remainder of the day. In what was a very tight game, the girls rallied and just got beaten by the buzzer, going down by one goal. Our final game saw us depleted to 7 players against Frankton High, and no bench. Again, luck was against us with our GA rolling her ankle in the first quarter. The girls found it difficult to recover and were beaten comprehensively.

The girls showed resilience, sportsmanship and teamwork and, as the only full Year 9 team in the competition, did an amazing job on the day.

Kim Rattue

Year Level Coordinator 8

Year 7 AFL 9’s Teams Shine at Southern Metropolitan Tournament

Last Friday, August 8th, Rory and myself took a Year 7 Boys and Girls AFL 9’s team to compete in the Southern Metropolitan AFL 9’s Tournament. Both teams represented the school with outstanding effort, skill, and sportsmanship throughout the day.

The action kicked off with strong performances against Cheltenham Secondary College and John Paul College, where both our boys and girls teams claimed impressive wins in their opening two matches. The players adapted quickly to the unique rules and fast-paced nature of AFL 9’s, showcasing excellent teamwork and determination.

In the final round of group matches, both teams faced a talented Patterson River side. Despite their best efforts and some great passages of play, our teams fell just short, ending our run in the competition.

Congratulations to all players for their enthusiasm, resilience, and positive attitude on and off the field. You did our school proud!

Best players on the day were Knox Wehner, James Wright, Piper Davies, Meadow Payze. 

Robert Horwill

Head of PE

Year 7 

Year 7 GenAI and Online Safety Workshops

On Monday, August 11th, our Year 7 students participated in engaging and informative workshops delivered by Dom from Optus- Digital Thumbprint, focused on Generative AI (GenAI) and Online Safety.

Each Year 7 class took part in hands-on sessions designed to educate and empower students in this rapidly evolving digital landscape. Using real-world scenarios, interactive discussions, and AI tools, students explored how GenAI is changing the world around them—and how to navigate it safely and responsibly.

What is GenAI, and Why Does It Matter?

Students first learned the difference between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI, gaining a clear understanding of how GenAI can be both a powerful tool and a potential risk. From content creation to image manipulation, they saw first hand how these technologies can enhance creativity and problem-solving, but also how they can be misused.

Key topics covered included:

• The definition and real-life applications of AI and GenAI
• Spotting deepfakes and AI-generated scams
• Understanding how scammers use AI to manipulate or deceive
• The importance of laws surrounding AI use
• Recognising red flags online and how to respond to them
• Why AI can’t replicate human feelings, emotions, or relationships
• Empowering Safe and Smart Use

The workshops encouraged students to be critical thinkers and safe digital citizens, offering practical steps they can take when navigating online spaces.  These practical steps included:

• Being sceptical of unusual messages or content
• Strengthening privacy settings on devices and apps
• Never engaging with suspicious individuals online
• Collecting evidence and reporting anything that feels unsafe

The workshops sparked meaningful conversations and gave students the confidence to use GenAI responsibly while staying alert to online risks.

A big thank you to Dom and the Digital Thumbprint team for equipping our Year 7 students with the knowledge and tools to thrive in the digital world.

For more resources, visit the below link.

Alex Mackenzie

Year 7 Coordinator 

Year 7 Indoor Premier League Lunch Time Soccer Competition

The first round of our Year 7 Premier League lunch time soccer competition kicked off in the stadium at lunch time on Wednesday August 13th. The competition will run for the next 6 weeks with finals being played in the last week of Term 3. There are 6 teams in the competition with three games being played each Wednesday lunch time. 

The students were very excited and took to the court with lots of energy and determination. The first game played was Chelsea v Manchester City which resulted in a 0-0 draw. The second game was our only girls’ team in the competition, Manchester United, playing against Liverpool. It was a very tight contest with both teams having many scoring opportunities, but Liverpool found the back of the net winning 1-0. 

The third game played was Arsenal against Aston Villa, which was the highest scoring game of the opening round, and saw Aston Villa win 5-0. Aston Villa and Liverpool are top of the table after Round 1 on two points each but after winning 5-0, Aston Villa are ahead on goal difference. 

We are looking forward to the Round 2 to be held next Wednesday. The top two teams in the competition will be rewarded with $10 canteen voucher for each player. The prizes for the competition are being funded by Active Schools Victoria, who aim to increase the activity levels of Victorian school students, which is an Education Department initiative.

John Walker

College Sport Coordinator

Year 7 Food Tech - Scone Practical Cook & Assessment

This week students in 7B cooked their chosen scone recipe in Food Technology. There were a variety of scones in the mix; savoury, chocolate, raspberry and chocolate, and more! As well as enjoying the process and freshly cooked scones, our students were assessed on preparation, method, teamwork, and presentation.

Year 8 Humanities City Experience 

Thursday 14th August saw our Year 8 cohort embark on Melbourne City to investigate the changes that have occurred over time in response to an increasing population and infrastructure development. 

We began the day at the Docklands, exploring the shopping precinct, ice skating arena, studios and water-front area. Students then moved on to Marvel Stadium and Southern Cross Station. From there, 8A and 8D discovered a new bridge connecting Docklands to South Wharf – Webb Bridge, whilst 8B and 8C moved through the CBD, visiting Bourke Street Mall, with a cheeky stop in the new Mecca store (which was huge – three levels of makeup, perfume and accessories!)

All students were allocated time to do some shopping and buy their lunch. A few of our talented musicians even had a go at playing the Grand Piano in Melbourne Central, drawing a crowd.

Then it was down Swanston Street, passing Flinders Street Station, on their way to Federation Square, where all four classes met up. We finished the day off with a walk by the Yarra River and around Melbourne Park.

Our Year 8’s once again demonstrated their excellence, through their enthusiasm, kindness, eagerness to learn and excellent behaviour.

A big thank you to Adam Pirrie, Lara Adams, Lewis Lynch, Lavonne Neal, John Molino, Kobi, Zach, Annette and Brianna who made the day so enjoyable for our Year 8’s. 

Kim Rattue

Year 8 Coordinator

Year 9 Course Counselling Interviews 

On Friday August 1st, Year 9 students completed their Course Counselling Interviews. These interviews provide an opportunity to explore options, receive tailored advice, and ensure subject choices align with each student’s goals and interests.

I spoke with some students following their interviews to hear what they had to say.

"Yeah, it was good. We went through my subjects and talked about what I might want to do after school. They gave me a few new ideas I hadn’t really thought about, and I feel a bit clearer about what I’m doing next year."

"It went pretty well. We talked about my subject choices for next year and how they link to what I might want to do after school. The counsellor explained the options I hadn’t thought about and gave me some advice on keeping my workload balanced. I feel a bit more confident now about my plan moving forward."

"The interview was very helpful. We reviewed my subject selections and discussed how they align with my future study and career goals. The counsellor offered valuable suggestions and guidance, which has given me greater confidence in my academic pathway."

Shaun Doherty

Year 9 Coordinator

Year 10 Outdoor and Environmental Studies

Year 10 OES - Cooking with the Trangias

This week our Year 10 OES students spent time learning to cook with Trangias. With pasta packets and forks in hand, our students learnt and followed safety protocols whilst whipping up a tasty mid morning snack. This exercise is great practice for our students fending for themselves at their upcoming Otways Camp in Term 4.

Year 10 OES - Indoor Rock-Climbing

On Thursday 14th August the Year 10 Outdoor and Environmental Studies class went to Bayside Rock Indoor Rock-Climbing Centre. The class learned how to put on a harness and attach themselves to the rope system. The students practised the skill of belaying a climber which was tricky at first, but they soon became very proficient at it. Communication between the students was incredibly positive and encouraging, helping each other to navigate their way to the top of the climbs. Many students challenged themselves to climbing the rope ladders which is way more difficult and challenging than it first appears. After climbing several climbs, the students began to appreciate the fitness of climbers as their arms started to become very tired. The big challenge of the day was the transfer across to the hanging rock which was a great achievement for those who accepted the challenge and succeeded.

John Walker

Year 10 Outdoor and Environmental Studies teacher

Year 12 

Year 12 Outdoor and Environment Studies Land Management Excursion

Huge shout-out to our amazing Year 12 OES class! 🌿 

We had a fantastic day on our Land Management excursion to Main Ridge. It was awesome to see everyone get their hands dirty and contribute to the brilliant Biolink project by planting trees on the Landcare property. Your hard work has helped continue the incredible effort to plant over 80,000 trees! 🌱

Madison Nicholls

OES Teacher

Year 12 Dress Up Day

On Tuesday August 12th our Year 12's held another fundraiser for the school's charity: Home Ground Cafe.  The theme of the day was "Dress as something beginning with the first letter of your name".  The students did not disappoint and you could see the effort they put in to dress their best.  We had Fred Flintstone pop in, Woody and a group of Cowgirls swing by, our dinosaurs, gangsters, divas and more.  Once again, it was great to see the staff get involved.  

Year 12 Guest Speaker - The Impact of Gambling 

On our Dress Up Day, we also had a guest speaker, Claire Emmanuel, speak to our students about Gambling. Students were asked lots of interesting questions and were happy to get involved in guessing the answers to the statistics of gambling and young adults.  Over the next few weeks our students will be given the opportunity to meet with lots of guests who will talk to them about some of the pressures young people face as they head out into the wider world. 

Jo Reeman

Team Leader Year 12

Production 2025 - Frozen Jr

Thank you to everyone who attended our production last week. It was wonderful to receive rave reviews, from audience members big and small.

In the words of one of our many 'mini-Elsa' guests, "The best bit was ALL of it!" She even gave it 100,000 stars out of 5 ⭐️

CFA Junior Volunteer Development Program

On Friday August 8th our students were visited by representatives from Mt Eliza, Mornington and Mount Martha CFA where they learnt about the Junior Volunteer Development Program (JVDP). 

The JVDP is run for 11 to 15 year olds, with 16 and 17 year olds able to volunteer as Senior CFA volunteers, with some restrictions. Activities within the JVDP give youths first hand experience and insight into the possible future career of firefighting, and include:

• practical firefighting drills 
• map reading and radio use
• first aid training 
• fundraising
• fire safety awareness
• community service
• leadership development
• fire brigade competitions and championships

Our students, and staff, thoroughly enjoyed their visit and hands on experience!

Hands on Learning

HoL Planting Project

Last week our HoL students were excited to fill up the large pots outside the cottage and plant citrus fruit trees and herbs in them. The team also worked more widely doing some garden maintenance throughout the school grounds, mulching, and started planning the HoL stall for the upcoming Year 12 Market Day (spicy plum jam and Anzac biscuits). Lunch on the day involved learning to cook napoli sauce on chicken parmas.

HoL New Project - Redevelopment of the Cottage Front Entrance

On Wednesday August 13th the HoL team got busy preparing the ground to start stage 1 of the revamp. We also did some more grouting, mulching, and garden maintenance. Home made chicken schnitzels were on the menu, and afterwards the team worked on finishing the art designs on the doors. 

Anastasia Maragakis

Hands on Learning Assistant 

Available Programs and Camps

To learn more or to reach out to us