Dempsey's Digest
MECS is such a wonderful, bustling community of many activities happening at once. In one day, there are so many different things happening at the same time. The Kinders might have a visitor to teach them something new (like the African drummers), the Preps might be learning a new word, the JPs might be out at PE, the MPs might be learning about community, the SPs might be working on a group project, the Year 7s might be on an excursion, the Year 8s might be doing cool things in the science labs, the Year 9s might be in the city, the Year 10s might be at VET or work placement, the Year 11s might be on a challenge day and the Year 12s might be doing a SAC. Everywhere you turn, there are things happening. Some mundane and part of everyday school life, other things exciting and adventurous. Community is like that. It’s not always fun and games or outstanding experiences, but it is always there. Community is consistent, comforting, good to be a part of. MECS does community well as we seek to reflect Jesus to each other. Let’s never lose that essence.
Here's a snapshot of some of the things in community over the past few weeks..
Our Board
We are served by a very committed and motivated board, who volunteer their time to focus on the essential elements of MECS. Our vision, mission, fiduciary status, reputation and more. The board have been working on the final version of our new Strategic Plan that will be presented at our May AGM. Further to this, the board are also turning their focus to Ranges TEC as they navigate ways forward for our Trade School. Stay tuned for more information!
Legal Conference
Although attending a conference around school legalities is not something that you might think is exciting, Rob and I attended a conference by Moores recently, which gave us great reminders and insights into many areas of school life that have or are changing. It was a great opportunity to celebrate the things we do well and get some good guidance on things we may need to improve or adjust.
School at Work Tours
Our Enrolments Manager Beth, has been busy organising wonderful opportunities to introduce our school to prospective families, by having them join our school at work tours. This week, the focus was Kindergarten and Primary. The parents love to see students engaged in learning and interacting with their teachers. You know, the most common way that people get to know about MECS is through word of mouth. Thanks for the good things you are sharing about our school to others. We’d love to invite more families to join in partnering with us, in the educating of their children. If there are things that you think we could improve or work on, please feel free to drop me an email.
Christian School Principal’s Meetings
From time to time I get invited to attend meetings that bring Christian School Principals together. A few weeks back I attended one that was a combination of Principals from both Christian Education National and Christian Schools Australia networks. It was a great time of sharing and hearing stories of other schools. This was held at Melton Christian College out west.
NCCD Census Post Enumeration Exercise
MECS was notified at the end of last year that we had been chosen for a 'Census Post Enumeration Exercise'. This happened on the 6th March. In a nutshell, this was an audit of our documentation and reporting in relation to enrolments and information around our students who require any level of support. You can imagine in any school context, that is a lot of students. This reporting and capturing levels of support is directly relative to the government funding that we are allocated. We are pleased to note that the Post Enumeration Exercise went well. Thanks to all of our staff involved in this process.
Secondary Swimming Carnival
It was such a privilege to drop in on the Secondary Swimming Carnival and see and experience the great atmosphere and incredible fun that the students were having. In the midst of ribbons and creative costumes, it was the novelty activities that created the most belly laughs and sense of comradery! Congratulations to our students for exemplary behaviour and appropriate engagement in a wonderful day of swimming competition. Congratulations too, to Mr Noy and the extended team for your hard work, dedication and focus on the day being enjoyed by all.