Student Engagement & Management

Over the course of this term, I have had the opportunity to attend several meetings with Network Principal teams, where a strong focus has been placed on preparing students for future employment pathways and workforce demands. One of the key discussions has centred around the continued expansion of VET (Vocational Education and Training) opportunities for students in 2027. As industries continue to evolve, employers are increasingly seeking students who leave Year 12 with practical skills, qualifications, and industry experience that allow them to transition directly into the workforce. Our VET programs provide students with an excellent opportunity to gain these valuable qualifications while still at school.

As we move towards planning for 2027, we are hopeful that all students will be able to receive their first VET preference, provided all relevant paperwork and applications are completed by the beginning of August. Information regarding VET pathways, applications, and timelines will continue to be communicated to students and families through Compass, Teams, and year-level assemblies.

At the same time, it is important to reinforce the expectations around commitment and attendance in VET programs. Unfortunately, we have had a number of students in 2026 who have not been attending their VET courses consistently. The school remains firm in its position that if students do not successfully engage in and attend their VET program throughout 2026, the school will not make the significant financial commitment required for them to continue the following year. Students who are undertaking the VCE VM pathway require 180 hours of VET to achieve their certificate, making attendance and commitment essential. We encourage students to carefully consider their future pathways, make informed course selections, and remain committed to the opportunities they choose.

This term, I also attended an Assistant Principals’ Network meeting, where Assistant Principals shared the challenges currently impacting schools and discussed key focuses moving forward. A strong theme across all schools was ensuring students are learning-ready and striving for success in every classroom. This continues to be something I am deeply passionate about at Lyndale Secondary College.

As part of this work, we have recently implemented our revamped SWPBS (School Wide Positive Behaviour Support) posters across the school. These resources are designed to support both teachers and students by clearly outlining expectations in and out of the classroom, helping to ensure that learning environments remain productive, respectful, and successful.

It has been pleasing to see many students demonstrating our school values each day and earning merits for their positive efforts. Students with the highest number of merits in each year level will be recognised at assemblies, and students can also continue to use their merits through the Merit Shops within each sub-school.

While it is important to celebrate positive behaviour, we also encourage students to reflect on how negative behaviours can impact not only their own learning, but also the learning of others around them. Teachers want to spend their time focused on quality teaching and supporting student learning, rather than repeatedly addressing behaviours that do not align with our school values. When a minor behaviour is recorded, it is important that students take responsibility, understand why the behaviour was inappropriate, and consider how they can make positive changes moving forward. Supportive conversations at home can play an important role in reinforcing these expectations and helping students develop responsibility and resilience.

As the cooler weather approaches, we want to encourage all students to maintain the positive start we have had at Lyndale Secondary College this year and avoid slipping into negative patterns of behaviour or disengagement. Positive learners contribute to a positive school culture, and together we can continue building an environment where all students feel supported to succeed.

As always, if you would like to provide feedback, discuss any concerns, or simply have a conversation, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Diana Kennedy

Assistant Principal

Student Engagement & Management