From the Principal

Welcome to Term 3 

It is with great excitement that I officially welcome everyone to Term 3. I feel incredibly privileged to have been appointed Principal of this wonderful school. Having worked with the Mornington Secondary College community last year, I developed a genuine appreciation for our students, staff and families, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to return and lead the school.

While I am excited about what lies ahead, I also recognise the significant responsibility that comes with this role. Every decision we make as a school will be centred on one question: How does this improve outcomes for our students?

The mantra, Relationships Matter in Learning will continue to underpin everything we do at Mornington Secondary College. When students feel known, valued, supported and challenged, they are far more likely to flourish—academically, socially and personally. Strong partnerships between students, families and staff create the foundation for learning, wellbeing and success. Building and strengthening these relationships across our community will remain one of my highest priorities.

This week begun with a Whole School Assembly on Tuesday that was MC’d by our College Captains Emmerson and Isobel who did an amazing job. My message to students centred around our college values of Achievement, Respect and Community. These values will continue to guide our decisions, our behaviours and the culture we create together.

Achievement means striving to be your best every day. Success looks different for every student. For some, it may be achieving outstanding academic results, while for others it may be improving attendance, developing confidence, mastering a new skill or stepping outside their comfort zone. My expectation is that every student gives their best effort. Effort, persistence and a willingness to keep improving are qualities that everyone can demonstrate, regardless of their starting point.

Respect is demonstrated in the way we treat ourselves, each other and our learning environment. It means listening to others, valuing different perspectives, showing kindness, taking pride in our school and creating classrooms where everyone feels safe to learn and contribute. The small choices we make each day have a significant impact on the culture of our College.

One of Mornington Secondary College's greatest strengths is its vibrant and inclusive community. Community means looking after one another, celebrating each other's successes and making everyone feel that they belong.

It also means embracing the many opportunities our College provides. Whether through academic achievement, music, Drum Corps, performing arts, sport, outdoor education, student leadership, VCE, VCE VM, VET or our many clubs, I encourage every student to become actively involved. Some of the most rewarding experiences and lifelong memories come from participating beyond the classroom.

My commitment to our students, staff and families is simple: I will work hard every day to ensure Mornington Secondary College is a place where every student feels safe, valued, challenged and inspired to achieve their personal best.

Thank you for the warm welcome I have already received. I look forward to working alongside our students, staff, parents and carers as we continue to build a school community where excellence is experienced by every student in every class every day.

I look forward to meeting many more of you throughout the term.

Adam Slater

Principal

Important Dates

Dates correct at time of posting and subject to change.

From the Principal Team

To students and families of the Mornington Senior School,

Welcome Back!

Welcome back to Term 3. I hope all our students and families had the opportunity to enjoy a well-earned break and return refreshed for the semester ahead.

Term 3 is always an exciting time at Mornington. It is a term filled with opportunity, whether that be preparing for course selection, completing workplace learning, tackling new units of work, continuing to build positive learning habits or taking the next step towards post-school aspirations.

At Mornington Secondary College, we encourage our students to embrace a "get better every day" mindset. Success is rarely about one outstanding lesson, one SAC or one examination. Instead, it comes from consistently making small improvements, learning from challenges and striving to be a little better today than yesterday.

As a school community, we will continue to challenge and support our students to achieve their personal best while also encouraging them to look after their wellbeing and enjoy the journey. Every new term provides a fresh beginning, an opportunity to reset goals, establish positive routines and make the most of the learning opportunities ahead.

We look forward to another successful term and wish all students the very best as they continue to grow, learn and achieve throughout Term 3.

Course Counselling Reminder – Next Steps for 2027 Pathway Selection

The course selection process for our 2027 Year 10 and Year 11 students is now well underway, and we would like to thank the many students and families who attended our recent Course Information Evening. It was fantastic to see so many engaging in thoughtful conversations about future pathways, subject choices and post-school aspirations.

As we move into the next stage of the process, there are two important actions for students and families to complete before attending their course counselling appointment.

1. Students should enter their preferred program on Griddle.

Students have been emailed a login link to their Mornington Secondary College school email account. Once they have reset their password, they can access Griddle and enter their preferred pathway and subject selections. Students have until Wednesday 23 July to submit their preferences. All selections are treated equally, so there is no advantage in submitting early. Course information can be found in the course information book or online at Mornington Secondary College I Secondary School Course Selection

2. Parents and carers should book a Course Counselling appointment through Compass via their students Compass portal.

Parents and carers are encouraged to attend these Course Counselling appointments, as they provide an opportunity for students, families and staff to collectively discuss pathway choices, review learning data, explore future aspirations and ensure the selected program is well suited to the student's interests and strengths.

To support students in this important process:

• Friday 24 July will be a dedicated Course Counselling Day for Year 9 students, with no Year 9 classes running.
• Monday 27 July will be a dedicated Course Counselling Day for Year 10 students, with no Year 10 classes running.

Families are encouraged to refer to the Course Counselling information for appointment times and details.

Choosing subjects is about more than simply selecting classes for next year. It is an opportunity for students to reflect on their strengths, interests and future goals, and to begin building a pathway that supports success beyond secondary school. We encourage families to continue these conversations at home before attending their counselling appointment.

If you have any questions regarding course selection or pathways, please don't hesitate to contact the College. We look forward to working with each student and family as we plan for a successful 2027.

Uniform Reminder: Representing Mornington Secondary College with Pride

At Mornington Secondary College, our uniform is more than just clothing. It promotes a sense of belonging, reflects pride in our school and helps create an equitable and positive learning environment for all students.

As we have settled into the new term, we have noticed a small number of students wearing tracksuit pants and hooded jumpers, neither of which form part of our everyday College uniform. We ask families to please support us by ensuring students arrive at school in the correct uniform each day.

What are "College Approved" uniform pants? To help provide clarity, College-approved long pants should be:

• Tailored trousers
• Navy blue in colour
• Non-skintight
• Non-wide leg
• Not made from denim or tracksuit material
• Not flared
• Made from a twill cotton weave fabric
• Minimal branding (less than 2 cm)

We have noticed a small number of students wearing navy tracksuit pants to school this term. While Mornington Secondary College does have an approved navy tracksuit pant, this item forms part of the PE uniform and may also be worn by students representing the College in external sport. It is not part of the standard everyday school uniform.

We also remind families that hooded jumpers, including those worn underneath the College fleeced jumper or spray jacket, are not part of the approved uniform. 

We understand that there will occasionally be genuine circumstances where a uniform item is unavailable, such as when clothing has been damaged or is in the wash. In these situations, students should wear clothing that is as close as possible in colour and style to the College uniform, bring a note from home, and see their Year Level Team before school to obtain a Uniform Pass. Student Services may also have a range of uniform items available for short-term loan to assist students in these situations. This process allows us to distinguish between students who have a genuine reason for being out of uniform and those who simply have not met the College's uniform expectations.

Maintaining consistent uniform standards helps create a positive learning environment where the focus remains on learning and where all students represent Mornington Secondary College with pride.

Thank you for your continued support in maintaining the high standards of our MSC community.

NAPLAN Results Available Next Week

Individual NAPLAN results for our Year 7 and Year 9 students will be distributed to families next week.

We are delighted to share that Mornington Secondary College has once again demonstrated strong growth from Year 7 to Year 9 across the NAPLAN assessment areas. These results reflect the consistent effort of our students, the dedication of our teaching staff, and the strong partnership we share with families in supporting learning.

While NAPLAN provides a valuable snapshot of student achievement in literacy and numeracy, it is just one measure of a student's progress. At Mornington Secondary College, we continue to focus on helping every student grow, challenge themselves, and achieve their personal best through high-quality teaching and a commitment to continuous improvement.

We encourage families to take the time to discuss the results with their child, celebrating their progress and recognising that learning is a journey. We are proud of the growth our students continue to demonstrate and look forward to building on this success throughout the remainder of the year.

Study Tip of the Week

Visualise the end goal: Your ATAR, your apprenticeship, your pathway.

Kind regards,

The MSC Principal Team

Adam Slater

Principal

Nick Evans

Senior School Assistant Principal

Mike Parker

Assistant Principal - Curriculum and Student Wellbeing

Students of the Week

Shye Berryman - Year 7

Favourite food: Pasta

Hobbies out of school: Swimming and seeing friends 

What sports team do you follow? Western Bulldogs

Favourite movie/TV show: The Rookie

Do you have any pets? 2 dogs named Bentley & Mooshie 

What are you excited for at Mornington Secondary College? Making new friends & trying new subjects

What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? Humanities

Your greatest strength: Swimming

What three words best describe you? Funny, friendly, happy 

Theo Tout - Year 7

Favourite food: Homemade Pizza

Hobbies out of school: Soccer

What sports team do you follow? Manchester United 

Favourite movie/TV show: Stranger Things

Do you have any pets?  A dog named Winston

What are you excited for at Mornington Secondary College? The lunch time Year 7 Soccer Competition

What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? Seeing friends 

What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? Professional soccer player 

What's one skill you have that makes you unique? Soccer skills

What three words best describe you? Funny, kind, energetic 

State Cross Country Championships 

 A huge congratulations to Ethan, Rafa, Kai, Bailey and Hannah who qualified for the 2026 State Cross Country Championships, held yesterday at the Yarra Glen Racing Club.

Qualifying for the State Championships is a fantastic achievement and reflects many hours of training, determination, resilience, and commitment. These students have demonstrated all of these qualities throughout their preparation.

The conditions were ideal for cross-country running, with the rain holding off and only a muddy track to challenge the competitors. All of our students handled the nerves of competing at the state level exceptionally well, embracing the atmosphere of the day and giving their very best effort. We are incredibly proud of the way they represented both themselves and the MSC community.

Results

15 Girls – 3km

• Hannah Cooper – 28th place

16 Boys – 5km (State Champions – 1st Place Team)

• Ethan Sheen – 10th place
• Rafa Merchan – 12th place
• Kai Peel – 35th place
• Bailey Barrett – 44th place

Congratulations to all of our runners on their sensational results. A special congratulations goes to our 16 Boys team, who were crowned State Champions for the third consecutive year—an outstanding achievement and a testament to their hard work, dedication, and teamwork.

Alex Mackenzie

Health and PE Teacher

Whole School Assembly

We began Term 3 by coming together as a whole school community for our Whole School Assembly on Tuesday 14 July.

Our new Principal, Adam Slater, welcomed students and staff, reinforcing the importance of our College Values of RESPECT, COMMUNITY and ACHIEVEMENT.

The assembly celebrated student achievements, with wonderful performances from our MSC Vocal Group and Year 11 Band. 

We were also proud to recognise our Silver Merit Award recipients, who were presented with badges and certificates for their ACHIEVEMENTS in The Arts, Community & Service, and Sport & Recreation. A Silver Merit Award represents more than 225 hours of involvement. Congratulations to all of our deserving recipients on this well-earned recognition.

The Arts: Elise Waring 

Community & Service: Max Mathy, Jackson Sweatman

Sport & Recreation: Hannah Cooper, Lily Hall, Phoebe Harris, Lacey Rattue, Noah Sheen, Chelsie Surridge, Heath Tiller, Jimmy Tiller

Our value of COMMUNITY was also highlighted with the presentation of a community-donated trumpet to Jackson Sweatman. Jackson was a deserving recipient in recognition of his dedication to the MSC Drum Corps and his involvement in ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services, including performing the Last Post. Congratulations, Jackson, on this well-deserved honour.

Excursions

Year 12 Legal Studies Melbourne Supreme Court

At the end of last term, our Year 12 Legal Studies students visited the Melbourne Supreme Court for an authentic insight into the Victorian justice system. After reviewing the court's daily listings beforehand, we were able to observe proceedings in a murder trial. Although the trial had recently commenced, it was a retrial of a case from 2025 that had previously been overturned.

Students had the opportunity to see the roles of the judge, barristers and jury in action, gaining valuable real-world context for their classroom learning. During our visit, we observed evidence being presented by witnesses who lived next door to the crime scene, as well as testimony from the victim's son. Experiencing a live court case was both engaging and thought-provoking, and with the trial still underway, we will have to wait to learn the final verdict.

The visit sparked great curiosity among the students, with many eager to research the background of the case and deepen their understanding of the legal process. It was a valuable and memorable learning experience for everyone involved.

A sincere thank you to Ms Reeman for accompanying the group and myself and helping make the day such a worthwhile and enjoyable experience.

Sian Jones

Team Leader Year 9

Year 10 Monash University Clayton Campus

On the last day of Term 2, our Year 10 students visited Monash University's Clayton campus, where they received a warm welcome from the Monash Access Mentoring team.

The day provided students with an exciting insight into university life through a range of interactive faculty workshops inspired by real-world applications and current student experiences. Students participated in one of two engaging sessions:

• Humanities: The Ethics of AI and Driverless Vehicles, exploring the social and ethical implications of emerging technologies.
• STEM: Biomedical Sciences – Prosthetic Prototyping, where students investigated how science and engineering combine to improve people's lives.

Following the workshops, the Monash Access Mentoring team shared their personal experiences of university life, providing valuable advice about studying at Monash, choosing courses, and balancing academic and social commitments. Students asked thoughtful questions and were particularly interested in hearing about the Global Immersion Guarantee (GIG)—a unique overseas learning opportunity available to all Monash undergraduate students.

The GIG is a fully funded, 12-credit point fieldwork unit (MON2100) that enables students to travel to one of nine countries at the end of their first year. Working alongside local communities and leaders, students explore global challenges such as environmental sustainability, economic development, and social impact while developing valuable intercultural and professional skills. Destinations include India, Indonesia, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, Malaysia, Italy, China, and Vietnam.

Families can learn more about this incredible opportunity in the below link.

Students also enjoyed a guided campus challenge, encouraging them to explore key facilities and experience the vibrant university environment. Lunchtime gave students the opportunity to choose from the wide range of food outlets on campus while chatting with the Monash Access Mentors about university life and future study pathways.

It was a fantastic day filled with learning, exploration, and inspiration. We extend our sincere thanks to the Monash Access Mentoring team, along with our teachers and support staff, whose efforts made the excursion such a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all students.

Our next Year 10-11 Careers excursion is the Melbourne Careers Expo (17.07.26), where students are having the opportunity to connect with a wide range of universities, TAFEs, training organisations, employers, and industry professionals. We look forward to MSC students having another valuable day of career exploration and future planning.

Kylie Lebrasse

Careers Practitioner

Learning Snapshot

Year 12 English Oral Presentations 

Our Year 12 students recently completed their English oral presentations, showcasing incredible public speaking skills, deep research, and intellectual maturity. This major assessment required students to deliver a persuasive speech on a contemporary issue from the media that enabled them to form a sophisticated contention and detailed supporting arguments backed by evidence and complimented by visual aids to maximise engagement with the VCE adult audience. 

The cohort tackled a diverse and engaging range of topics that resonated strongly with the audience. Key issues explored included:

• the ethics of artificial intelligence in schools, 
• the impact of fast fashion on the environment, 
• nuclear power and renewable energy, and 
• the debate surrounding political issues current in Australia today. 

Students also passionately debated local community issues, including:

• cost of living crisis, 
• domestic violence, 
• use of e-scooters, 
• women’s sports coverage, 
• the validity of an ATAR, and 
• the importance of youth mental health resources, amongst many others.

The standard of delivery this year was exceptionally high. Speakers captivated their peers/teachers using powerful rhetorical devices, sophisticated framing, and well-reasoned rebuttals. Teachers were highly impressed by the students' ability to maintain strong eye contact, utilise natural body language, and speak confidently without relying too heavily on notes.

We congratulate all Year 12 students on their hard work, thorough preparation, and personal achievements. They demonstrated great courage proving themselves to be thoughtful and informed citizens.

Jackie Lewis

Literacy Leader

Middle Leaders Conference 

During the term break, I had the opportunity to attend the Middle Leaders Conference at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership with Jo Reeman (Year 12 Team Leader), Jackie Lewis (Literacy Leader) and Jen Rolls (Acting Art KLA Leader). The conference, themed Leading with Influence, was a valuable opportunity to step away from our everyday roles, reflect on our leadership practice and connect with educators from across the state.

Throughout the day, we explored the important role middle leaders play in improving teaching and learning, strengthening school culture and supporting positive outcomes for students. The keynote presentations and workshops provided practical, evidence-informed strategies that we can apply within our own teams. We left the conference feeling inspired, with new ideas and a renewed confidence in our leadership.

One of the highlights of the day was the interactive session with Impro Melbourne Theatre Company. Jen and I had the opportunity to participate in the audience activities, making for an enjoyable and laughter filled experience. The experience reinforced the importance of effective communication, collaboration, adaptability and being willing to step outside our comfort zones as leaders.

Overall, the conference was an engaging and worthwhile professional learning experience. It provided a meaningful opportunity to invest in our own professional growth, and I look forward to sharing what I learned with colleagues and putting these ideas into practice at our school.

Julie Cameron

Leading Teacher: Inclusion Leader – Disability & Behaviour Specialist

Year 7 Aquatics 

Our Year 7D students have made a great start to their second Aquatics unit this term, demonstrating impressive confidence, skill and enthusiasm in the pool.

Throughout the unit, students have showcased a high level of competency across a range of aquatic activities. They have developed and refined their paddle boarding techniques, demonstrated strong freestyle and survival stroke swimming skills, and worked collaboratively while learning the fundamentals of water polo.

It has been fantastic to see students challenge themselves, support their classmates and display excellent sportsmanship during each session. Their positive attitude and willingness to improve have contributed to a highly successful unit so far.

Rob Horwill

Head of PE

Year 9 Science: Electrical Circuits

Our Year 10 Studio Arts students have begun the term by developing their observational drawing skills through the work of David Hockney. During the lesson, they completed a series of timed drawing exercises focusing on shape, line, form and tone before creating a 20 minute sketch using all of the practice skills. Next lesson, they will explore Hockney’s use of colour to further develop their artwork.

Shani Hodson

Art Teacher

Year 11 Physics: Practical on Acceleration Down a Ramp

2026 Contributions Friendly Reminder

The Department of Education provides schools with funds to assist in the running of a school.  All government schools rely on parent subsidies that enhance and extend what our school can offer ensuring the best possible education and support for your family. 

It would be greatly appreciated if you could review all of the recommended contributions we have requested as well as any other payments requested, for example Music Lessons.

To assist you with reviewing this on Compass please follow these instructions.

Compass Portal on a computer

Please follow the CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION link in the Payments Centre box.  In this section, you will see all upcoming event and contribution links.

Click on the arrow next to ACTION REQUIRED to see more information and make any payments. 

Compass Portal using the phone app

Please find below a link to the Compass Parent User Guide for the mobile app.

Wellbeing

Doctors in School

MSC Staff Achievements

During the recent holiday, staff members Sarah Jeffs, Emily Parker and Alex Healey pursued their 'outside passions' with involvement in The Lightning Thief - The Percy Jackson Musical. Sarah directed, Emily was on-stage and Alex was involved with costumes.

All three staff members are heavily involved with our upcoming MSC Production: High School Musical. Tickets are on sale now for the Thursday 6 August 7pm, Friday 7 August 7pm and Saturday 8 August 2pm sessions via the below link.

Footy Tipping

Don’t Miss a Moment at MSC!

Follow Mornington Secondary College on Facebook & Instagram for news, events, and more so you never miss a moment of your student's learning journey.

Community News & Opportunities

Supporting a Cause Close to Home

Mornington Secondary College parent Natasha Dreger is taking on an incredible challenge to support Deaf Children Australia, walking 60km in a single day from her home in Mt Martha to the organisation's St Kilda Road office on 14 October.

Natasha's youngest son, Hamish, was born deaf and is now a typical14-year-old; an outgoing and competent teenage boy who loves sports and gaming. Earlier this year, Natasha joined Deaf Children Australia as a Parent Mentor, supporting families with the benefit of her own lived experience. Inspired by the important work the organisation does for deaf and hard-of-hearing children and their families, she decided to give back by raising much-needed funds.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help Deaf Children Australia continue providing programs, resources and support that foster connection, confidence and inclusion.

If you would like to support Natasha's fundraising effort, donations can be made via the below link.

Youth Road Safety Fact Sheet: Victoria Police

FREE LIVE Parenting Webinar Invitation for Parents: School Disengagement Support

Foster Carers Needed

If you have thought about foster care, please get in touch and ask the questions you have always wanted to.

Ring: Key Assets 1800 932 237 or 1800 WE CARE

Email: info@keyassets.com.au

Web: canifoster.com.au or keyassets.com.au

RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment) - Camp for 14-17 Year Olds

RYPEN is a 3-day camp running 18-20 September at The Briars Outdoor Ed Camp in Mount Martha, where students take part in workshops and team challenges designed to build confidence and help them discover their potential.

RYPEN is completely free for participants and their families! Rotary clubs will sponsor young people to attend, which completely covers the cost of students to attend RYPEN. 

Key details:

RYPEN: A life-changing camp for empowerment and personal growth

Who: 14-17 year olds (in years 9-11)

When: 18-20 September 2026

Where: The Briars Outdoor Ed Camp, Mount Martha

Apply: https://linktr.ee/ryla9815

Willum Warrain Program Guide: Term 3

To learn more or to reach out to us