Mornington Secondary College Newsletter

From the Principal

Good morning everyone, I hope you have had a productive week. Many of our students certainly have, with the Year 7 students attending camp at Golden Valley, Flinders, the District Athletics day where 117 students competed from all year levels, Year 9 students attending a presentation to learn more about mental health from the Speak and Share organisation and Breakfast Club serving smiley face pancakes for Do It For Dolly Day.

 

Today, I would like to remind our school community about 2 policies. The first one is the uniform policy. 

 

As the weather is getting cooler and soon Winter will be upon us, students are required to wear full school uniform at all times, this includes travelling to and from school and on school excursions. Wearing tracksuit pants under a skirt is not permitted and students will be asked to remove them, so please wear trousers or tights under the skirt. Students wearing non uniform items may incur a consequence. There is plenty of choice for all students and Shellie Farnill at Student Services may be able to assist with providing items of uniform.

On April 3, 2024, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Education Minister, Ben Carroll jointly announced – along with Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy – new policy changes that will make school uniforms more affordable. As from next year students at Victorian public schools will be allowed to wear non logoed below the waist uniform items e.g. shorts, pants, skirts, socks. This does not mean students can wear what they like from the waist down. It could mean tailored trousers can be purchased anywhere. This is the decision of School Council. ‘The Department's Student Dress Code Policy explains that school councils have the authority to develop a student dress code for their students. School councils must work with their school communities in developing and reviewing dress codes.

 

In terms of roles and responsibilities for the development of this policy:

  • The school council has the power to develop a student dress code, in consultation with the school community’.

Mornington Secondary School Council will work and consult with our school community to ensure the uniform policy is in accordance with State Government.

 

The other policy I would like to remind you of, is the Mobile Phone policy. 

 

The definition of a mobile phone is a telephone with access to a cellular (telecommunication) system, with or without a physical connection to a network. For the purpose of this policy, ‘mobile phone’ refers to mobile phones and any device that may connect to or have a similar functionality to a mobile phone such as ‘smart watches’. This also includes wireless headphones and ‘Airpods’.

 

In accordance with the Department’s Mobile Phones Policy issued by the Minister for Education, personal mobile phones must not be used at Mornington Secondary College during school hours, including lunchtime and recess and at the Canteen.

 

Students may apply for an exemption only on medical grounds. Recently there has been an increase with students wearing headphones. This is clearly in breach of the Ministerial policy formally issued by the Minister for Education under section 5.2.1(2)(b) of the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 (Vic).

 

Students who use their personal mobile phones inappropriately at Mornington Secondary College may be issued with consequences consistent with our school’s existing student engagement policy. At Mornington Secondary College inappropriate use of mobile phones is any use during school hours. Consequences may include detentions, seizing of mobile phones (to be collected from the student services office at the end of the school day), and suspension.

 

Please understand my reasons for highlighting both the uniform and mobile phone policies. We are a great school, with a great community. I want to continue to make our school the best school on the Peninsula. Both policies are evidence based. 

 

Uniform creates a sense of belonging. It identifies students within the wider community and should be worn with pride.

 

The Mobile Phone policy is a Ministerial policy (as mentioned previously). As a Victorian Government school we are bound by this policy. Mobile phones are extremely distractive.

Please work with me in support of these policies. The policies are not unreasonable.

 

Have a great week.

 

 

 

 

Linda Stanton

Principal

 

 

Important Dates

Term 2 2025

 

May

May - Friday 16th Year 9 Morrisby My Career Insights

May - Thursday 22nd  Year 12 Formal

May - Friday 23rd  Curriculum Day, pupil free day

May - Monday 26th  Year 7 and Year 10 Vaccinations

 

June

Jun - Monday 9th  King's Birthday public holiday, student free day

Jun - Tuesday 10th to Friday 13th  Year 7 to Year 10 PAT testing

Jun - Wednesday 11th to Thursday 19th  Year 10 and Year 11 Exams

Jun - Tuesday 17th  GAT Day for students studying VCE Units 3 and 4

Jun - Friday 20th  Report writing day, student free day

Jun - Monday 23rd  Semester 2 commences

Jun - Thursday 26th to Friday 27th  Year 12 Snow Camp - Mt Buller

 

July

Jul - Tuesday 1st  Course Information Evening for 2026 Year 9 to 12 students

Jul - Friday 4th  End of Term 2, 2.30pm dismissal

Middle School

Dear Parents and Guardians,

 

Our Year 7 students had a fantastic time at camp in Flinders! It was wonderful to see them fully engaged and enjoying all the activities. We’ve captured some great moments, and we’re excited to share them in this week's newsletter and on our social media accounts @Mornsc.

 

A huge thank you to Evangeline Romage and Alex Mackenzie for leading and overseeing the camp. We’d also like to acknowledge the incredible support of Kellie Nottle, Paul Papettas, Johnnie Walker, Emma Kirkos, Kai Zhang, and Simone Henry—your commitment and care made this experience so positive for our students.

 

To our wonderful parents—thank you for working in partnership with us to ensure your child had a memorable and rewarding camp experience.

 

Looking ahead:

  • Year 7 Cross Country: All Year 7 students will participate in our school-based cross-country event on Monday. Students in Years 8–12 who wish to take part can sign up via Mr. Walker’s newsfeed on Compass.
  • Speak & Share: Yesterday, our Year 8 and 9 students participated in a session with Speak & Share, a not-for-profit mental health organisation promoting open and honest conversations. The students were highly engaged and took a lot from the experience.
  • Year 9 Morrisby Profiling: Coming soon, our Year 9 students will be involved in the Morrisby Career Profiling program. Please ensure you have provided consent via Compass so your child can take part in this valuable initiative.
  • Primary School Visits: Next week, we’re welcoming local primary schools to the College for two days of hands-on science experiences in our laboratories—a great opportunity to spark curiosity in our future students!
  • Year 7 2026 Enrolments: Today is the submission deadline for Grade 6 families to lodge their Year 7 placement forms. We’re looking forward to welcoming the next cohort of students.

With the colder weather now settling in, we encourage all students to wear their winter uniform to stay warm and comfortable throughout the day. We are proud of how our students represent the College, and it’s great to see them wearing their uniform with pride. If you are experiencing financial difficulty in providing uniform items, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to support you.

 

Wishing all our families a lovely weekend ahead.

 

Warm regards,

 

 

 

Denise Leggett

Assistant Principal

 

 

Senior School

To students and families of the Mornington Senior School,

 

Congratulations

I wanted to start this week’s article by acknowledging the terrific efforts of our senior girls’ aerobics team who qualified first at the regional level over the weekend and are now off to the State Finals on the 31st May. They all train really hard before and after school on multiple days each week (and came in during the holidays) to ensure they are ready for competition. They are trained by a former student and now staff member, Indie Jowett, who does a fabulous job with them all (as well as several other teams at the school). Also wanted to mention two amazing Year 11s; Sophie Van Der Meer and Seren Chespy, who were our first ever duo representatives, who also were awarded a gold medal and will be heading to the State Finals! The teams compete against mainly independent and faith-based schools and MSC out-perform them year in, year out. Great work girls and good luck in the lead up to State Finals.

 

Last big push for Year 12s in Unit 3

The next three weeks will see a large number of SACs (and Applied Learning Projects for our VCE VM students) for our Year 12 cohort as they finish up their Unit 3 assessments. As they prepare for this busy period, they should consider how best to set up their lives to fit in adequate study and preparation time. It is expected that each student is spending 3 hours per week, per subject outside of school hours to maximise their results in Year 12. The students they are competing with across the state will all be in a similar position. It might be time to take one less shift at work or to come home a bit earlier from those ‘important’ social gatherings that I hear are happening at weekends. Year 12 students get one crack at getting their ATAR (although I would welcome anyone who wants to come back and try and improve on it in 2026 😉).

 

Year 10 and 11

Our students should now be starting to gather enough evidence of their strengths and areas for improvement as they start to think about their programs for 2026. While course counselling won’t officially launch until later this term, Year 11s should be starting to form an idea of which 5 subjects they’ll do in Year 12. These decisions should be based on which subjects they are doing well in, which ones they enjoy and then consider any pre-requisites they must have for university entry (if that is their intended pathway). I’d encourage students to make a careers appointment if they want to check any entry requirements or to access Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC - https://vtac.edu.au/) resources online to help guide their thinking. 

 

Key Senior School events

22nd May (Thurs) – Year 12 Formal. No year 12 classes after lunch

23rd May (Fri) – Curriculum Day

11th – 19th June (Wed – Thurs) – Year 10-11 exams and VCE VM semester 1 presentations (year 11)

17th June (Tues) -VCAA GAT – all students studying a year 12 VCE ATAR or VM subject required

20th June (Fri) – Report writing day (no classes)

23rd June (Mon) – Start of semester 2 rotations (years 7-11)

1st July (Tues) – Senior Pathways Course Information Night

4th July (Fri) – End of term 2

 

 

 

Nick Evans

Senior School Assistant Principal

Tell us what you really think….

 

Its survey season again. Each year the Department of Education runs a series of surveys to gauge how the school is going and to provide us with information which we use for planning.  During May we will be conducting the “Student Attitudes To School Survey”.  The students are asked a series of questions about their learning, about how they are supported at school and about their general happiness at school. The survey is completely anonymous and gives us a vital insight into the things we should celebrate and opportunities for improvement.  Last year the survey showed a marked improvement in how students were feeling about school and their learning, we are confident that this year we will see more of the same. If you would like further information I have included the official communication from the department of education at the end of this news letter.

 

 

 

Mike Parker

Assistant Principal

 

 

Students of the Week

 

Year 7 Leyton George  

 

Favourite food: Sushi

 

Hobbies out of school: Basketball   

 

What sports team do you follow? NBA - Golden State Warriors.  Footy- Richmond 

 

Favourite TV show: Anything sports 

 

Do you have any pets? no pets

 

What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? All the clubs and sport opportunities 

 

What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? Something in sport

 

 

Year 8 Emma Bassett       

 

Favourite food: Chicken burger from Schnitz

 

Hobbies out of school: Shopping, cricket and going to the gym

 

What sports team do you follow? Geelong and Melbourne Stars

 

Favourite TV show: Outer Banks

 

Do you have any pets? Yes a border collie named Olive

 

What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? I enjoy the sport programs. I am doing Aerobics and production this year.

 

What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? I would like to be a senator.

 

 

Year 11 Hannah McCormack 

 

House: Tuerong

 

Hannah recently gave an excellent short talk for Have a Say in Year 11 VM Literacy. This was her group work:

 

At Mornington Secondary College, we think it’s important to change how much pressure is put on students to get work done. A lot of the time, teachers don’t really know what might be going on in a student’s life outside of school, and that pressure can feel overwhelming. Instead of stressing students out with strict deadlines, it would make more sense to meet halfway and find a compromise. That way, students still get their work done, but in a way that’s fair and manageable for everyone. It’s about being more understanding and making school a bit less stressful.

 

 

Year 12 Amelia Vecchi, Year 12 Vice Captain

 

Favourite subject: Health and Human Development

 

Favourite food: Pasta

 

AFL team: Melbourne

 

Why do you like being a captain? I like being the voice for my year level and having my say in different matters.

 

What is the best thing you have done in your 6 years at MSC? 

Camp and interschool sport

 

Future career: Nurse

Year 10 Outdoor Environmental Science Otway Ranges Camp 

An Unforgettable Journey: Great Ocean Walk Adventure

From Monday 28th April to Wednesday 30th April, a group of adventurous Year 10 students from Mr Walker’s Outdoor and Environmental Studies class embarked on a three-day hiking expedition along the breath taking Great Ocean Walk. Covering the first 33km of the trail, from Apollo Bay to the iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse, this journey was not just a physical challenge—it was an opportunity for students to build resilience, self-reliance, and camaraderie in one of Victoria’s most stunning natural landscapes.

 

Day One: From Apollo Bay to Elliot Ridge

The adventure began under clear skies as students laced up their boots and set off along the coastal stretch from Apollo Bay. The day’s hike took them across expansive and picturesque beaches, with waves crashing beside them and sea breezes at their backs. Spirits were high as the group made their way into the cool temperate rainforest of the Otways, reaching their first campsite at Elliot Ridge. Here, nestled among towering eucalypts and ferns, students set up their tents and cooked their own meals using Trangia stoves alongside their tent partners. It was a rewarding experience that demanded both teamwork and practical skills—something every student tackled with enthusiasm and growing confidence.

 

Day Two: Elliot Ridge to Blanket Bay

The second day brought a shift in terrain as students hiked from Elliot Ridge to Blanket Bay. The track challenged the group with steep inclines and muddy paths, but it also rewarded them with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Koalas dozed in the treetops, and wallabies darted through the undergrowth, offering magical moments of connection with the natural world.

Upon reaching the campsite at Blanket Bay, students were greeted with sweeping ocean views and the soothing sound of waves just metres from their tents. Evening brought time for games and laughter as students participated in riddles and campfire brainteasers, sparking lots of friendly competition and many laughs. One curious wallaby even made a surprise visit to the campsite, delighting everyone. When the tide rolled out, the shoreline revealed intricate rock pools, perfect for exploring and discovering tiny sea creatures before nightfall.

 

Day Three: The Final Push to Cape Otway

With alarms set for 5:45am, the final day began in darkness. Guided by torchlight and surrounded by the early morning hush of the bush, students hit the track early and were treated to a spectacular sunrise as they walked. The last leg of the hike—a challenging 11km stretch—included what quickly became known as “Heartbreak Hill,” a steep incline that tested every hiker’s endurance. Yet, it was here that students truly demonstrated grit and determination, pushing through fatigue and encouraging one another to reach the top.

Reaching Cape Otway Lighthouse marked a triumphant end to the expedition. With a sense of accomplishment and tired but happy smiles, students accessed their long-awaited bus bags—filled with snacks, clean clothes, and well-earned treats. After a quick lunch stop in Apollo Bay, the journey back to school began. Thanks to excellent teamwork and an early start, the group made great time and even managed to beat the city traffic, arriving back an hour ahead of schedule.

 

A Shared Success

Throughout the three-day adventure, the group’s positive attitude, perseverance, and mutual support were on full display. Whether navigating muddy tracks, preparing meals, or climbing steep hills, students rose to every challenge with courage and commitment.

A huge thank you goes out to Mr Olarenshaw and Kobi, whose leadership, guidance, and energy played a vital role in making this camp such a memorable and successful experience. Their support helped foster a safe, fun, and enriching environment where students could thrive.

 

The Great Ocean Walk adventure will long be remembered not just for the landscapes and wildlife, but for the friendships strengthened, the lessons learned, and the unshakable sense of achievement felt by all.

 

 

 

John Walker

Outdoor and Environmental Studies teacher

Divisional Boys Netball

Year 9 and 10 Intermediate Boys

Our Year 9/10 Boys Netball team competed on the 1st of May in the Division level. The boys showcased excellent skills right from the start, with strong defensive efforts from Brodie, Lachie, and Caiden, and fantastic mid-court support. Charlie and Nick were instrumental with their feeds into the attacking end, creating some great opportunities for our goalers, Andy and Jack. 

 

While we didn’t place in the competition, the boys had an enjoyable day, with plenty of energy and spirit, engaging in friendly rivalries against other schools. 

 

It’s been a great season, and I’m proud of the team’s growth and enthusiasm on and off the court. Well done boys!

 

 

 

Madison Nicholls

Teacher

 

 

Year 7 Camp - Golden Valley

On the morning of Monday 5th May, our Year 7 students arrived at school with suitcases, pillows, and plenty of excitement as they prepared to head off on their first High School camp. The buses were filled with chatter—students talking about who they’d be sharing cabins with and what activities they were most looking forward to.

We stopped at Sorrento Park for lunch and a chance to stretch our legs before continuing to Golden Valley Adventure Camp in Flinders, our home for the next three days. From the moment we arrived, students threw themselves into the experience with energy and enthusiasm.

 

The camp activities challenged students in the best ways. Whether launching themselves off the giant swing, taking a leap of faith, or flying down the zipline, students showed great courage and resilience. Many stepped well outside their comfort zones, supported by encouraging cheers from their peers—and even a few brave teachers joined in! Damper making was another highlight, showing of some of the student’s culinary prowess and a few very creative interpretations of “cooked.”

Evenings were filled with group activities including a twilight walk, a campfire with marshmallow toasting, and a trivia night that had everyone working together and sharing laughs. These moments helped strengthen friendships and foster new connections among students.

The camp was not only about adventure, but also about building relationships, learning to work as a team, and developing independence. Students returned home with new friends, stronger bonds, and a sense of pride in what they had achieved.

We are incredibly proud of how our Year 7s represented Mornington Secondary College. Their enthusiasm, kindness, and willingness to take on new challenges made it a truly memorable camp experience.

 

 

 

 

Evangeline Romage

Year 7 Team Leader

 

Year 9 Wellbeing Day - Speak and Share Incursion

On Thursday 8th of May, the MSC Wellbeing team organised for Speak & Share, a local mental health organisation, to come and speak to the Year 9 students about the importance of having deeper conversations with friends and sharing their troubles with others to support their mental health. 

 

The students actively participated in each of the activities. 

 

The first was a team building activity that highlighted the importance of communication when it comes to mental health. 

The second involved small groups participating in a ‘dinner date’ where they asked each other questions that encouraged vulnerability. 

The final activity was a creative exercise in which they all drew a sunflower, highlighting the people, places and activities that make them themselves, and what values they have.

The students in both groups behaved exceptionally, demonstrating kindness and respect towards each other and the facilitators Amy & Lachie.

 

 

 

Maddy Collinge

Student Wellbeing

 

Aerobic State Qualifiers

On Saturday the 3rd of May, our Aerobics Squad attended the State Qualifiers at Patterson River Secondary College. 

It was such a positive day for all staff, students and families involved. We couldn't be prouder of the 30 students who represented MSC, and congratulate them all on the effort and energy that was brought to the stage. 

 

We were lucky enough to have 3 teams, as well as our duo performance qualify for the State Finals! Our results were as follows:

  • Party Starters (Duo) - 1st Place (progress to State Finals)
  • Atkinspire - 1st Place (progress to State Finals)
  • Steptacular - 4th Place (progress to State Finals)
  • Adrenaline - 5th Place (progress to State Finals)
  • Step One - 6th Place 

A huge thank you to all of the families for their support on the day. It's fair to say that MSC had one of the best cheer squads there! Also, a big thank you to Jenny Vanin for her attendance and support at the competition. Our students are very lucky to be surrounded by so much support and encouragement. 

 

We are looking forward to the State Finals on the 31st of May. Go MSC!

 

 

 

 

Indie Jowett

Aerobics

 

Congratulations 

Congratulations to Ella Holcombe on being selected as training partner for the U15’s Victorian State Netball Team! An amazing achievement and opportunity.

Hands on Learning

Our Hands on Learning students have been enjoying the fine weather in the garden; building garden beds, weeding, planting new lavender, watching the corn grow and creating rock sculptures. To keep their energy levels up, it's been wood fire pizzas cooked onsite!

 

 

 

Matthew Butcher

Hands on Learning

 

Immunisation Program 2025

Please find attached important information from Mornington Peninsula Shire relating to the Year 7 and Year 10 Immunisation Program planned for Monday 26 May 2025. The letter details the Shire's request that the college sends parent contact details to them so they can follow-up any student who has missed their immunisation.

Please read carefully.

Year 7 Immunisation Program Information 2025.pdf
Year 10 Immunisation Program Information 2025.pdf

Please consent or decline for your child to take part in the Immunisation Program using the following links: 

 

Year 10 Immunisation 2025 Consent Link

 

Year 7 2025 Immunisation Consent Link

 

A help sheet from the Shire is attached.

Immunisation Program - 26 May 2025 - Link to consent help sheet.pdf

 

 

 

Shellie Farnill

Education Support - Student Services

 

 

2025 Production - FROZEN JR

 

Announcing our MSC Cast for 2025 for FROZEN JR! 

 

This week we would love to introduce our hardworking backstage crew.  They are currently in creation mode working on the props, costumes and sets for Frozen Jr. Putting in the hard yards behind the scenes and working on some very cool projects that we cannot wait for everyone to see in the show.

 

Tickets are available to purchase now!  Remember we have a sing-a-long session on our open night so you can join in the fun!

When:        Tuesday 5 August 2025 SING-A-LONG SESSION     7-8:30pm

                     Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th August 2025     7-8:30pm

                     Saturday 9th August 2025     2-3:30pm

 

Location:   Performing Arts Theatre1051 Nepean Highway, Mornington Vic 3931

 

Tickets can be purchased via trybooking, on the below link.

Buy Tickets

National Careers Week - 12th to 16th May

National Careers Week is an initiative of the Career Industry Council of Australia to celebrate career development, a process of managing learning, work and leisure to progress through life. It includes gaining and using the skills and knowledge needed to plan and make informed decisions about education, training, and work. Everyday decisions and priorities affect career development. 

 

National Careers Week is held between 12th – 16th May, where students can participate in a range of activities that include:

Book in or pop into the career pathways office during recess, lunchtime or after school! We can assist with course counselling, work experience, university information, VTAC, VET courses and much more. If you require a longer consultation, please book in Student appointment 

 

 

 

 

Kylie Lebrasse

Career Practitioner

School Saving Bonus reminder and allocation to school activities

The Victorian Government is delivering the School Saving Bonus (SSB) – a one-off support of $400 for eligible government school students from Prep to Year 12 in 2025. The SSB can be used for uniforms and textbooks until Monday 30 June 2025. Any funds already allocated to school activities do not expire.

 

To use any remaining SSB funds to cover the cost of school activities in July, please refer to the SSB online system and allocate the funds to school activities before 30 June 2025. 

 

Any unspent funds remaining on the portal after 30 June 2025, including online voucher amounts that have not been redeemed, will become a credit to use on school activities. However, the unallocated credit will not be available on your family account at our school until late July. 

 

 

To learn more about the SSB online system, download the step-by-step System guide for parents and carers or watch this School Saving Bonus video. System guide translations are also available in 14 languages.

school-saving-bonus-system-guide-for-parents-and-carers-2975.pdf

 

The Department of Education’s SSB contact centre will remain available until 30 June 2025. After this date, please contact Erin.Dixon3@education.vic.gov.au for any SSB related questions. The contact centre can be reached by: 

Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund

The Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) helps eligible families to cover the costs of school trips, camps and sporting activities.

 

If you have a valid means-tested concession card, or are a temporary foster parent, you may be eligible. A special consideration category also exists for asylum seeker and refugee families. Means-tested concession cards must be valid on the first day of Term 1, 2025 (Tuesday 28 January 2025) or Term 2, 2025 (Tuesday 22 April 2025). A student aged 16 years and over who is considered a mature minor and holds a valid concession card is also eligible to apply.

 

Eligible families will receive a payment of $256 per year for secondary school students . The funds will be paid directly to the school to be used towards camps, sports and excursion costs for the benefit of your child.

 

If you would like to apply, please contact the school office on Ph. 5970 0200 and ask for an application form. Please return completed application forms to the school office as soon as possible.

2025 Student Attitudes to School Survey - Parent / Caregiver / Guardian Information and Consent Letter

The below letter is to inform parents / caregivers / guardians about the 2025 Student Attitudes to School Survey (AtoSS), which all government school students in Years 4 to 12 will be invited to complete.

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