Acknowledgement of Effort

As a very busy few weeks draw to a close, it is fitting that we acknowledge the hard work of students, teachers, parents, and carers, who have worked together to ensure that all members of our community are engaged and supported in their learning.

On Tuesday, 20 February, our Year 7 students and their families attended a 'Welcome Evening' where, amongst information related to our lessons and home study expectations, staff discussed our 'Music Artists Program' for instrumental music and preparation for the Year 7 Orientation Camp. The camp was well-attended and proved to be a highly enjoyable experience for students and staff, despite the steep hill climbs. While Year 7 students were on camp, Years 8 and 9 students enjoyed participating in our 3-day Challenge Program at school.

On 27 February, we welcomed back Chris Daicos for a highly interactive and informative evening for Years 8 and 9 parents and carers. Chris's experience as a social worker, coach, lecturer, and presenter was valued by everyone in attendance.

"Chris's presentation on building resilient young people was both interactive and inspiring. She is very knowledgeable and encourages families to navigate conversations in the right direction, discussing the highs and lows of confidence and anxiety. During the short time I spent with her, I feel grateful for the discussions we had on self-awareness, positive goal setting, boundaries with realistic foundations, and guidance resource tools. I wish more families took the opportunity to attend tonight as Chris's qualified perspective helps families walk away and reflect on household conversations and mindsets." - Katrina, Year 9 Parent

This week, the VCE Information Evening was held for parents/ carers and students undertaking all three streams of the VCE Senior Secondary Certificate. The evening provided important information regarding VCAA and college policies and their relationship to successfully completing coursework, attendance, authentication, homework study, the GAT, and examinations. There was an opportunity for parents/carers to meet key staff, gain valuable insights about the changes to the senior secondary programs, and learn how to manage potential stress associated with the expectations of VCE, along with the multiple supports available for our students. Mr Mark Corrie shared his expertise as a current VCAA State Reviewer, providing a valuable overview of the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) with Ms Michelle Deboer, discussing how students can maximize their preparation and build their aspirations for their best performance, upcoming Elevate Education study skills sessions, senior school study hub, careers supports, extracurricular activities, and key dates.

The Junior School students also participated in sessions conducted by Elevate Education staff, who worked alongside teachers to provide strategies for developing positive work habits for students from Years 7 to 9.

The students involved in the Blue Edge (Educate, Develop, Grow, Empower) program have been building their resilience and well-being. It has been rewarding to see how the students have continued to extend themselves and work well as individuals. After participating in many group problem-solving tasks, exercises, workshops, breakfasts, and peer support with their Blue EDGE Facilitators and mentors, the students are now preparing for the final day of their program, which includes a full day's activity in the last week of term. Thanks to our local Victoria Police who put in time to support this program and Each.

Beyond the classroom, our senior and intermediate students represented the college, competing in interschool sports and the Knox Regional Division Swimming Carnival.

After a very busy few weeks, it is fitting that we acknowledge the hard work of students, teachers, parents, and carers who have worked together to ensure that all members of our community are engaged and supported in their learning.

NAPLAN

Next week, NAPLAN begins for Year 7 and 9 students. To encourage our students to do their best, there are some things you can do at home. Encouraging students to have a good night’s sleep and consume breakfast can support their concentration and thinking to complete the assessments. Also, check that laptop batteries are on full charge each day. Students are asked to try their hardest and answer the questions to the best of their ability but should not have too much pressure placed upon them. NAPLAN is a tool that measures students' performance at a given point in time. In conjunction with other tools such as PAT testing, teacher observation, and other forms of assessment, teachers identify each student's strengths and/or areas for further development or opportunities for extension to personalize each student's future learning and maximize their learning growth. Teachers will be present to ensure that the environment is quiet and to assist with any login issues. Students have had a practice run to ensure that the technology works as required so that they can concentrate without distraction.

Mr Ayman Youssef

Assistant Principal - Teaching and Learning

Whole School Assemblies

On Monday 4 March, we held our second whole school assembly for the term. These assemblies are an important opportunity to come together as a whole college community and to celebrate individual and collective achievements.

Assemblies are planned and led by school captains and vice captains providing authentic leadership opportunities for our students and a a welcoming forum for our performing arts students to perform and for other presentations.

Monday’s assembly was very well run by our Vice Captains Anna Harper and Zach Bissett. Anna and Zac together with our college captains, Brayden Corey, and Lauren Watson, provide the perfect conduit for students to contribute to provide a strong voice for all students.

Our assembly format has also evolved over the past year with all present standing at the beginning and conclusion of our assemblies as we welcome our official party.

This is a sign of respect for our principal, and student leaders, and raises the formality of these occasions.

At Monday’s assembly Iasinta Faasoo Aiolupotes and Susitina Von Heidebrandt presented the highlights of the recent senior school volleyball tournament, which sounded like an enjoyable day for all who attended.

We also celebrated 100% student attendance awards from Term 4 2023.

As audience members we should be proud of the achievements of our peers at these formal occasions, I know I am!

Mr Mark Corrie

Assistant Principal - Operations

Community