I hope you’ve all had a restful and enjoyable Christmas break. It’s my pleasure to welcome you to 2025 at Seymour College, whether you are new to our community or returning for another year.

For those who may not know me, my name is Kelly Quigg-Akkersdyk, and I am the Defence School Mentor here at Seymour College. I’m here to support Defence students and families as you navigate school life. My role involves helping with integration into the school community, acting as a liaison between families, students, and staff, and ensuring that your unique needs are supported.

I’m available during the following hours:

Tuesday and Thursday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Wednesday: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm

Defence Club

I’d like to take this opportunity to invite all Defence students to our Defence Club, which runs every Tuesday and Thursday during second break (1:44 pm – 2:14 pm).

This will commence 2nd week of term.

Tuesdays offer a quiet, welcoming space where students can come to relax, build friendships, and make connections. Defence students are welcome to bring a friend of their choice to join in, and we’ll have a variety of activities such as games, colouring, and arts and crafts available.

Thursdays are always a hit with food provided, so students have an extra reason to come along and enjoy the company of others in a relaxed environment.

If your child has a particular interest or activity they’d love to see included in our Defence Club program, please don’t hesitate to let me know, and I’ll do my best to incorporate it.

I look forward to connecting with you all and supporting you throughout the year. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out.

A big congratulations to Dylan Frost, our Defence School Captain for 2025. Dylan, currently in Year 12, is a remarkable student and an outstanding role model for all at the school. His leadership and dedication shine through in everything he does.

You’ll have the chance to see Dylan in action at our key Remembrance ceremonies, including Anzac Day, Remembrance Day, and Vietnam Veterans Day, where he will be the guest speaker. We are proud to have Dylan represent our school and our Defence community.

Defence Mentor Support for Your Children

As part of my role as Defence Mentor, I’m here to support your children during times of need. If there are any changes in circumstances at home—such as your partner being deployed, outfield, or any family or school-related challenges—my role is to assist your child through these situations.

However, I rely on your help to stay informed. Please keep me updated with any changes, so I can provide the best possible support.

Kelly Quigg-Akkersdyk - Defence School Mentor.

Kelly.Quigg@education.vic.gov.au

Birthday Celebrations for Our Defence Family

We’re excited to celebrate the birthdays of all students in our Defence family! Each student with a birthday will receive a special birthday lunch voucher. To claim it, simply come and see me at Defence Club.

For our primary students, a voucher will be provided for the showcase prizes in the library.

JANUARY & FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS

Birthdays will receive a lunch voucher at Defence Club on Tuesday and Thursday.

January

Leah, Keeley, Ava-May, Claire

February

Harvey, Abby, Max, Jorja, Aiden, Dylan, Savannah, Jeremiah, Joshua

Events

Bookfair is coming