From the Principal
Today we remember the sacrifice of our veterans and current serving personnel at our annual Remembrance Day service. Today we welcomed our special guests,
Ms Katie Wilkie representing - Ms Zoe McKenzie MP Federal Member for Flinders
Renee Heath MP - Member for Eastern Victoria
Chris Crewther MP – State Member for Mornington
President Mornington RSL - Ms Meryn Cooper
Mr David Youl – representing Mornington Lodge
Mayor of Mornington - Councillor Steve Holland
Deputy Mayor of Mornington – Councillor Debra Mar
Councillor Despi O'Connor
Members from Rotary Club of Mornington and Lions Clubs of Mornington and Dromana
General Manager of Mornington District Basketball Association – Ms Sam Browne
Representatives from Bunnings Mornington
Mr Colin Mason – School Council President
I have provided a snippet of my speech to our school community.
‘I acknowledge that we are meeting on the traditional country of the Boonwurrung people of the Victorian region and pay respect to Elders past and present. I recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land, which continue to be important to the Kulin Nation people living today.
At 11 am on 11 November 1918, the guns on the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare. The allied armies had driven the German invaders back, having inflicted heavy defeats upon them over the preceding four months.
The Allies’ victory would not have been possible without the five divisions of the Australian Corps, who were at the forefront. With their spectacular victory at the Battle of Hamel in the summer of 1918, turning the tables of the war at Amiens, capturing Mont Saint-Quentin and Perrone, and overcoming German defences at the Hindenburg Line, the Australian troops displayed true valour.
By the time the exhausted soldiers had withdrawn, they had achieved a reputation as a force to be reckoned with. Their sweet success came at a heavy cost, however. Almost 48,000 Australian casualties were reported during 1918, including 12,000 deaths.
In the four years of the Great War, more than 330,000 Australians had served and 60,000 of them were killed.
The service today lets all those who have served know how grateful as a nation we are for what they did. We do remember them, for if they had lost, our country would have been very, very different from the one we know now.
The memories of our veterans, and those who made the greatest sacrifice should live on forever in our hearts and minds.
On Remembrance Day, flags are flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning and respect. It is said that this tradition stems from sailing ships that lowered their sails at sea to honour an important person or mark a death.
A thoughtful and peaceful Remembrance Day to you all.
“Lest we forget”.
Thank you’.
Linda Stanton
Principal
Important Dates
OCTOBER
24/10/23 - 15/11/23 | VCAA Exams
NOVEMBER
23/11/23 | Year 10 Graduation
24/11/23 | Student free day
27/11/23 | VCE Launch Night 6pm-7pm
27/11/23 | Fast Forward commences
29/11/23 - 1/12/23 | MSC Art Show
DECEMBER
08/12/23 | Last day for Year 10 and Year 11 students
11/12/23 | Presentation Evening
12/12/23 | Orientation Day 2024 Year 7 students
20/12/23 | Last Day of school for 2023
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Middle School
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As part of our Staff Professional Learning Day, we focused on data sets and high expectations and what it looks like in the classroom.
The overwhelming response from staff regarding high expectations in the classroom was ensuring that students completed the work in class to a high standard. Staff also discussed high standards for academic performance and high standards of behaviour as well as encouraging students to strive for excellence while doing their best. We also discussed supporting students to reach their full potential and cultivating a growth mindset. High expectations also start with students coming to class on time and with the right equipment. We want to encourage every child to do their best every class, every day.
I have just returned from visiting a Year 7 class where the students were working on writing a personal response to 'Bridge to Terabithia'. The essay structure was clearly outlined, and the students were working on their responses. The teacher was being explicit about how to write the response and modelling the writing process. The students were thinking of answers and sharing. The expectation was that every student completes the questions before commencing the writing process. I was reading the students work and it was clear that the teacher had met her objectives of students completing the set questions before commencing the essay. It was wonderful to see the students working and demonstrating their high expectations of learning.
For you to gain a valuable insight into your child’s learning you can ask questions like “what is an interesting topic you are studying at school?” or “can you tell me about an assignment that you are working on at the moment?”
Our fantastic Year 8 cohort spent Thursday this week at Martha's Cove. Even though it was a little overcast, the students had a great time kicking the football, playing beach cricket and generally having some downtime together to end the year before they move on to Year 9.
Our students had time to peruse the local shops and the teachers in attendance were complimented many times during the day on how well behaved our students were.
Wishing you a great week.
Denise Leggett
Middle School Assistant Principal
Senior School
To students and families of the Mornington Senior School,
Hopefully you all enjoyed the long weekend (for those of you who had one) and a chance to spend quality time with friends and family. Friday is the last day of classes for our Year 11 VCE ATAR students with a short SWOTVAC on Monday and Tuesday before starting exams from Wednesday 15th November. I spoke to the Year 11 ATAR students on Wednesday about the high expectations of them in these exams as this will be the last low stakes opportunity to practice their revision and examination skills before it counts.
Our Year 10s will be doing revision-based activities in classes on Monday and Tuesday before their semester two exams commence from Wednesday the 15th November. As always, students are required to attend for their scheduled exams only, in full school uniform. Missed exams will be re-scheduled for students and all exams are expected to have been completed by the 23rd November.
Yesterday the 2024 College Captains and I launched the Student Leadership Package for 2024. We have expanded the number of leadership positions for 2024 and have created new positions that are designed to have more diversity in skills and interests represented within the leadership team. Applications for all student leadership positions close on Friday the 17th of November and the College Captains look forward to reading the applications.
Have a fantastic weekend. Only a couple of weeks until our 2024 VCE Launch night on the 27th November where I’m looking forward to seeing many of you.
Kind regards,
Nick Evans
Senior School Assistant Principal
Every moment counts
Every moment at school is valuable and can have a significant impact on a student's learning and personal development. School provides a structured environment where students not only acquire knowledge but also develop essential life skills, social skills, and character traits. As parents your role is essential in ensuring that students get to school every day. Here are a few reasons why every moment counts at school:
Learning Opportunities:
Each class and lesson in school presents opportunities for students to learn new concepts, acquire skills, and expand their knowledge base. Every moment spent actively engaging with the material can contribute to a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Social and Emotional Growth:
School is a place where students interact with peers, teachers, and other staff members. These interactions help them develop social skills, empathy, and emotional intelligence, which are crucial for their current and future success.
Character Building:
Traits such as discipline, teamwork, responsibility, and respect are important soft skills. Every interaction and experience in school can shape a student's character, helping them become a responsible and compassionate person.
Preparation for the Future:
The skills and knowledge acquired in school lay the foundation for future academic and professional pursuits. Being attentive and engaged in class ensures a strong foundation, making it easier for students to tackle more advanced concepts in higher education or in their careers.
Extracurricular Activities:
School is not just about academics. Participating in extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, music, and clubs provide students with valuable life experiences, teach them teamwork, and help them discover their passions.
Teacher-Student Interactions:
Teachers are valuable resources for students. Every interaction with a teacher, be it in class, during office hours, or in extracurricular activities, can provide students with guidance, mentorship, and support.
Building Confidence:
Successes and challenges in the classroom and other school activities can boost a student's confidence. Overcoming obstacles and achieving goals in school can instil a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance.
It's important for us to recognize the value of a student’s time at school and make the most out of every moment. Active participation, curiosity, and a positive attitude can enhance the learning experience and contribute to their personal growth and development.
Kind regards,
Mike Parker
Assistant Principal
Year 10 Ottway Camp
Year 10 (5B) Outdoor Education group took on the first three days of the 100km Great Victorian Road Hike starting at Apollo Bay and ending at Cape Otway lighthouse. Due to strong winds on day one, the group used their training to rearrange the hike using Apollo Bay as base camp for night one. Over three days the students hiked over 35km with heavy packs which ensured they were self-sufficient, carrying everything from tent, food, water, clothing and a Trangia's to cook with. All the students used their training to ensure they 'left no trace' taking everything with them and even picking up rubbish left behind by others.
It was an amazing camp due to the excellent attitudes of every student who showed great resilience, team work and a love for nature. The camp was made even more enjoyable due to the great laughs we had over camp games such as Uno, Mafia, handstand competitions, talent shows and alphabet games just to name a few. I am sure life long memories and friendships were formed. A big shout out to all the parents who ensured their sons/daughters were well organised and also hung around for the extra 15 minutes of pack up.
Year 10
Mr Jake Uhlenberg
Exams are nearly upon us and we hope that our students will push themselves to do and be better than they were in June of this year, to prove to their teachers and themselves that they have grown and are ready for the challenges ahead.
With so few teaching days left with this cohort it is beginning to feel bittersweet that we have all shown incredible growth over this year, but that we will soon be handing them to a new team for support as they begin their VCE journey.
We will hold a final assembly and celebration after their final exam on the 23rd of November before they become Year 11 students on the 27th November.
Year 11
Dr Jasmine Keough
We had our final assembly for our lovely ATAR students on Wednesday. It was wonderful to celebrate such a great year level. Students were awarded gold stars for their outstanding efforts. Everyone enjoyed looking at the photographs that showcased what the students enjoyed.
The end of year exams begin next Wednesday. Year 11 students only need to attend school for their exam. Classes are working on revision and it is important for students to engage fully with the exam process. These exams are vital for students to understand what the process is like to prepare them for the BIG one next year - their VCE exams.
The VM students had their last day of formal school on Thursday. They will be coming into school next week for their presentations.
The Year 11 Coordination Team has enjoyed supporting this year level. We will miss them as they move into Fast Forward and wish them well.
Our Gold Stars winners with Mr Nick Evans at the final assembly on Wednesday.
Year 12
Mr Scott Kirkby
VCAA exams are in full swing and students have been preparing well and remaining calm. All Year 12 exams will be complete by 5:15pm on November 14. As students finish, this can be a challenging time, to go from heavy study to completely finishing study for now. Taking time to reflect, celebrate and set new goals is important in this time.
VCE ATAR results will come out on December 11. For information regarding access to results, please click this link VCAA FAQ’s
We are proud of our students and their ATAR does not define them. We ask that they do themselves proud, try their best and put in the work to know they did all they could and are satisfied with the outcome.
The Year 12 team is available to share successes and support pivots in preferences and discuss new goals with all our students.
