From the Principal
Dear families,
We have had so many amazing things taking place at Mornington Secondary College recently — from student awards and achievements to recognition from the Department of Education for our high performance across both learning and wellbeing. These acknowledgements reflect the collective effort and dedication of our students, staff, and families.
Our Year 12 VCE students are now fully immersed in their exams, and while it is always a little sad to say goodbye, we are incredibly proud as they prepare to take their next steps beyond school. This time of year, highlights the strong bonds between students and their teachers, and the deep appreciation they hold for the guidance and support they have received throughout their journey.
With World Teachers’ Day being celebrated this Friday, I would like to take a moment to thank all our teachers for their unwavering dedication and commitment to your child’s education. We truly value the care, effort, and passion they bring to their work every day.
I am currently on leave, and Denise Leggett will be Acting Principal in the mean time. I would like to thank the leadership team for their continued work and support in ensuring the smooth running of the College during this time.
Warm regards,
Linda Stanton
Principal
Important Dates
Middle School
Dear Parents and Carers,
It’s been another busy and exciting time for our Year 7, 8 and 9 students! Over the past few weeks, all students have completed their PAT Literacy testing. These assessments provide valuable insights into each student’s progress and help teachers better understand their learning needs. The results are used alongside other data sources to ensure that every student is supported and challenged at their point of need. A big thank you to Ms Lewis for her wonderful organisation and leadership of this important process.
Next week, on Thursday 6 November, our Year 7, 8 and 9 students will complete their PAT Numeracy testing. Thank you to Mrs Watchorn, who is coordinating the day and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Our VM (VCE Vocational Major) students have also been working hard behind the scenes, organising a movie session for each year level. This has been an excellent opportunity for them to develop their teamwork, communication, and organisational skills — and it’s been wonderful to see how successfully they’ve brought this idea to life.
As part of our transition program, our team is visiting Mt Martha Primary School this week. We’re delighted that Jackson Sweatman, one of our Year 8 students, will be speaking at their assembly about his own experience starting secondary school and the exciting opportunities available at Mornington Secondary College.
We’re also incredibly proud that Jackson will be performing The Last Post on trumpet at our upcoming Remembrance Day Service. Jackson has been practising diligently every day, and it’s wonderful to see such commitment and pride from one of our young musicians.
A reminder that Monday is a Professional Learning Day for staff, and Tuesday is the Melbourne Cup public holiday. We hope all families enjoy the extended weekend and take some time to rest and recharge.
There are also some fantastic events coming up in the next few weeks:
- Year 7 Portfolio Day – Friday 14 November A wonderful celebration of learning where students will showcase their achievements to families.
- Year 8 Shark Tank Business Panels – Monday 17 November Our budding entrepreneurs will pitch their creative ideas as part of their Economics project.
We are so proud of the effort, enthusiasm and teamwork our students have shown across all year levels. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement as we move into the final weeks of term.
Warm regards,
Denise Leggett
Assistant Principal
Senior School
To students and families of the Mornington Senior School,
It’s officially exam season, with our ATAR Year 12s underway with the English exam completed on Tuesday, to be followed by Psychology and the first General Maths exam on Friday. I met with and greeted the 12s prior to the English exam. As you would expect, there was a bit of nervous energy. All students made it through the exam and most reported that it was a pretty good exam. The Year 12 team met the students on their exit from the exam and gave them a ice cream and a small gift.
Our Year 10 and 11s will commence end of year exams on the 12th November, with the coming weeks to be spent in class on exam preparation, revision of key topics and rehearsing the skills required for VCE success.
2026 Elective allocations
The MSC timetabling team is busy working through the process for creating our 2026 timetable. A new 2-week structure for senior school has added complexity to the process but opened access to many more electives for students in Years 9 and 10, while increasing face-to-face instructional time in VCE ATAR subjects. While we work through these changes we are meeting with students who have timetable clashes or have picked subjects that won’t be running in 2026 (due to low student interest). We hope to have finalised student programs during next week and then we’ll send out that information via Compass (in the billing contributions section).
Year 11 VM Personal Development Movie Days
Our Year 11 VM students have been running movie days for our younger students over the last week, selling popcorn, lollies and drinks as they learn as part of one of their Applied Learning projects. Thank you to the facilitation and guidance of our Year 11 VM PDS teachers, Julie Cameron, Lewis Lynch and Mick Williams.
Arrangements for Year 11 and 12 students during SWOTVAC (study without teaching vacation)
Now that the final classes for Year 12 classes have finished teachers will be available during their usual scheduled Year 12 class time for any student who wishes to come in for support in preparation for their exams. The teacher of their Year 12 class will be available in those times up until the exam for that subject. In my teaching career, I saw a direct correlation between students who came in for extra support and better exam results and thus study scores. Year 11 students studying a Unit 3&4 subject will continue to attend classes as scheduled up until their exam. Year 11s who have a Year 12 exam may have the day before their exam as a nominated home study day if they wish. These students will have the day coded as a study day in Compass. Students are welcome to attend their classes if they wish on that day but a full day of preparation before their first Year 12 exam would generally be very useful for them.
Key Senior School events for Term 4 2025
Kind regards,
Nick Evans
Senior School Assistant Principal
Year 10 and 11 Exams – An Opportunity to Shine
As we approach the upcoming Year 10 and 11 exams, students have an excellent opportunity to demonstrate how much they’ve grown and what they truly understand from their studies this year. These assessments are not just a test of knowledge—they’re a chance to show pride in their learning, preparation, and effort.
The lead-up to exams is an important time for students to make the most of their study routines. Using class time effectively, seeking clarification from teachers, revisiting past assessments, and creating realistic revision schedules all make a significant difference. Small, consistent efforts over the next few weeks can greatly improve confidence and performance.
Students are encouraged to view exams not as something to fear, but as a moment to show how good they really are—to display their progress, resilience, and depth of understanding. Whether it’s consolidating key concepts, refining problem-solving techniques, or simply staying organised and calm, every step taken now contributes to success.
Parents can support by helping students maintain a balanced routine—encouraging rest, healthy meals, and time away from screens. Together, we can help our Year 10 and 11 students finish the year feeling proud of what they’ve achieved and ready for the next stage of their learning journey.
Mike Parker
Assistant Principal - Curriculum and Student Wellbeing
Students of the Week
Year 7 Piper Cunningham
Favourite food: Sandwiches
Hobbies out of school: Drawing, spend time with friends and family
What sports team do you follow? I don’t follow a sporting team
Favourite movie/TV show: Arcane
Do you have any pets? A cat named Chester
What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? All the opportunities, the Clubs, Humanities and Food Tech
What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? Some type of medical professional- nurse/ doctor or paramedic
Year 7 Lucian White-Alker
Favourite food: Carbonara
Hobbies out of school: Joining soccer, spending time with friends
What sports team do you follow? Rugby- New Zealand All Black & AFL- Melbourne Demons
Favourite movie/TV show: Grown Ups
Do you have any pets? A fish named Gengiskhang
What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? My friends, Science and English
What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? Architect
Year 8 Atuich Machar
Favourite food: Lasagne
Hobbies out of school: Soccer, Basketball and Video games
What sports team do you follow? Liverpool & Melbourne Victory
Favourite TV show/movie: The Rookie
Do you have any pets? Red nose pit-bull named Rambo
What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? My friends and PE. I am looking forward to doing electives in Year 9
What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? Join the military or study Medicine at University
Year 8 Juliette Parker
Favourite food: GYG – burrito bowl
Hobbies out of school: Footy and the gym
What sports team do you follow? Hawthorn
Favourite TV show/movie: Rom Coms
Do you have any pets: A mixed breed named Rosie
What do you enjoy most about being at Mornington Secondary College? How inclusive our school community is.
What career do you wish to follow when you finish school? Child psychologist
World Teacher's Day
Today we take our 'Hats Off to Teachers' on World Teachers' Day in celebration of the amazing teachers across Australia, and in particular at Mornington Secondary College, who inspire, support, and empower our children and young people every single day.
Headstart - 2025 SBAT of the Year Award
The Head Start Program supports students completing a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT) while at school and then with the transition from school into the workforce. Students who are undertaking a School Based Apprenticeships/Traineeship must manage their time between completing school, (usually VCE VM or VPC), completing a Certificate III, and often outside commitments such as sport and part time work.
Noah Thompson - Award Winner
We have the pleasure of saying a few words on behalf of his employers Tim and Joel, who’d like to congratulate Noah Thompson on successfully completing his carpentry schooling — an achievement that reflects not only his skill, but also his dedication, perseverance, and great character.
From the beginning, Noah has shown himself to be a hard worker — focused, reliable, and always willing to give his best. What really makes him stand out, though, is the combination of his strong work ethic and great attitude. He’s polite, caring, respectful, and genuinely a pleasure to work with.
Now, of course, we can’t go without mentioning one of Noah’s more unique talents — his strength. There aren’t many people who can break as many tools as quickly as he can! Whether it’s a saw, a drill bit, or anything that dares to get in his way, Noah’s power has definitely kept the tool suppliers busy. But honestly, it’s just a sign of the enthusiasm and energy he brings to every job.
Tim and Joel also wanted to acknowledge Noah’s wonderful family. They’re all such lovely, supportive people who have not only encouraged Noah along the way, but have been incredibly kind and welcoming to us as well. That support clearly shines through in the way Noah carries himself each day.
His eagerness to learn, natural talent, and attention to detail make him a standout in his trade. Tim and Joel are both very proud of what he’s achieved so far and are looking forward to seeing him continue to grow and develop his skills.
It’s been a pleasure working alongside him, and there’s no doubt he’s got a bright future ahead in carpentry.
Congratulations, Noah — and here’s to many more great projects ahead… and hopefully a few less broken tools.
Rebecca Slater
Applied Learning Leader
Year 11 Business Management Hot Springs Excursion
Our Year 11 Business Management students recently enjoyed an exciting and educational excursion to the Peninsula Hot Springs as part of their studies. The day began with an insightful presentation from the Human Resources Manager, who spoke about how the Hot Springs recruits, trains, and supports its staff to provide the outstanding service the business is known for. Students gained valuable first-hand knowledge to help them prepare for their upcoming SAC on Human Resource Management and Recruitment Methods.
After the presentation, students were lucky enough to experience the beautiful facilities and relaxing atmosphere of the Hot Springs themselves — a well-earned reward after a busy term of study!
All students represented the college with pride, showing great behaviour, respect, and curiosity throughout the day. It was a wonderful opportunity to combine learning with a unique real-world experience.
John Molino
Head of Humanities
Year 11 Vocational Major Personal Development
Students Shine in Planning and Executing Community Engagement Event
This semester our students have been exploring the concept of community engagement, learning to understand both its benefits and challenges. Through hands on experience, they have discovered what it takes to create an event for their peers that brings students together and creates a meaningful connection within our school community.
As part of their studies, students worked in small groups to design, plan, and implement a movie session for their peers in Years 7, 8 and 9. This project required them to apply their learning by collaborating, problem-solving, and considering the needs of their audience every step of the way.
The groups demonstrated creativity, organisation, and leadership as they collaborated with the planning and delivery of the event. The students showcased exceptional teamwork and initiative throughout the processes of:
- brainstorming movies,
- seeking students’ feedback of movie selection,
- preparing the venue, promoting the event, and
- delivering a fun and inclusive experience for their peers.
Following the event, students reflected on their experiences, evaluating both the successes and challenges of their planning and execution. Many commented on the satisfaction of seeing their peers enjoy the activity, while also recognizing the lessons learned about communication, time management, and engaging in a community effectively.
It was a great way for the students to complete their Final Outcome for Unit 2, while also creating an enjoyable experience for their peers.
Congratulations to all students involved for their dedication and effort in bringing this project to life. Their hard work not only created an enjoyable experience for their peers but also provided valuable insights into the importance and impact of community engagement.
Julie Cameron
VCE Vocational Major & Humanities Teacher
Year 10 Humanities - Law and Order Excursion
Last week our Year 10 Humanities Law and Order students travelled to the city for an excellent opportunity to see the law in action. The class is currently studying Criminal Law, and this outing allowed them to further enhance their understanding of the Australian Legal System and Parliamentary Process. Below are reflections on the day from four of our students; Avantika Ale, Regan Bolger, Owen Burgess, and Layla Fleming.
On our Year 10 city trip, we went to the Shrine of Remembrance and the courts, and it was really interesting.
At the Shrine, it was kind of quiet and serious, and it made me think about all the soldiers who fought for Australia. Seeing it in real life was a lot different from just reading about it in class. I liked how everything was set up to make you feel respectful and reflective.
Then at the courts, it was cool to see how the legal system actually works. Being in a real courtroom made it feel more real, and I could see how complicated the law can be. It was interesting watching how judges, lawyers, and witnesses all do their part.
Overall, I learned a lot from seeing these places in person. It made history and the law feel more real, and I think it will stick with me more than just learning from books.
I enjoyed seeing the County Court in Melbourne. The cases presented in the first court about armed robbery were very interesting and helped me to see the order of operations in the court. In the 3rd court the judge spoke to us, and asked if we had any questions, which was very helpful (even though no one wanted to ask any questions). I enjoyed going to the Shrine of Remembrance and learning about the history of the Eternal Flame. I now know that it is used to commemorate soldiers.
Visiting the County Court in Melbourne was a good experience! Before visiting I didn’t know a lot about how real court cases worked but seeing it in person helped me understand the inner workings of the legal system much better. I enjoyed visiting the library and Shrine, and especially learning more information about specific parts of it. This excursion helped me appreciate how the law works and the significance of places in Melbourne. At the end of the day I felt more informed about the people who work to bring justice every day.
For Year 10 Legal Studies, we went on an excursion to the County Court in Melbourne.
When we arrived, we had to go through security like that of an airport. The court rooms were given numbers such as 5.3, 4.3 etc. When we entered the first court we had to bow to the judge. The trial was on armed robbery, committed by 4 individuals. The incident had occurred in 2023 and was a plea. Whenever a barrister/lawyer spoke to the judge, they stood up. We also had to bow when we left the court room.
The second case was on an individual who possibly shot another man. He also had a history of carrying fire arms. At the end when the jury had left for a break, the judge asked us if we had any questions.
We left the County Court and made our way to the Law Library, where we once again had to go through security. The library was beautiful, still retaining the architecture of the past.
After lunch we headed towards the Victorian State Library, which had a much more modern design compared to the Law Library; here we saw Ned Kelly’s Armour.
Lastly, we explored the Shrine of Remembrance, which consisted of multiple bits of information such as :
- The fire that never goes out
- The museum inside
- The pyramid structure it has because ANZAC soldiers fought in Egypt
- The glass opening at the top of the pyramid which sunlight filters through to land on the grave of the unknown soldier.
- An olive tree, as that is what the ANZAC’s would have seen in the foreign lands they were sent to.
Paul Papettas
Humanities Teacher
Year 10 Environment and Marine Science Excursion
On Tuesday October 28th the Year 10 Environment and Marine Science class went to Mills Beach to collect data for their Crab Survey Performance Task. Students enjoyed finding many crabs under rocks, and had a go at catching the crabs, which proved to be a little challenging. Students gave their best efforts and a wide variety of local crabs were collected, including the Little Shore Crab; the Mottled Shore Crab and the Burrowing Shore Crab.
Emma Kirkos
Maths/Science Teacher
Year 8 English
Our Year 8 cohort have been studying Resilience for their Personal Response Unit this term. As part of the Unit students have watched and analysed the movie Cool Runnings, including the characters and themes relating to resilience. Tuesday this week they watched Soul Surfer, a great real life example of resilience.
This week students began preparing and learning how to structure their essays. 8A worked in groups, brainstorming examples of resilience and delving deeper into how resilience was built during the movie in the lead up to the final scenes.
Our Year 8’s have embraced the theme and the movies they have been exposed to, and even with a very tight timeline leading up to our Presentation Day, the Year 8 English teachers are looking forward to seeing our student’s final essays.
Kim Rattue
Year Level Coordinator 8
End Of Year Activities Week: 16th - 18th December
In the last week of Term 4 we move to celebration mode and encourage our students to enjoy a range of off-site and on-site fun activities in the wind down to school holidays. These events include, but aren't limited to
- Tree Surfing at Enchanted Adventures,
- Le Mans Go Karting and Laser Tag,
- Learn to Surf at Phillip Island, and
- Gravity Zone Jump and Laser Tag.
In previous years many activities have booked out quickly, so to avoid disappointment, please use the below link to book tickets.
Bookings for the End of Year Activities Week opened via trybooking on Wednesday 22nd October, and close on Sunday 23rd November, unless sold out.
Emma Kirkos
Activities Week Co-ordinator
Year 7-12 2026 Resource List
Campion is the school resource supplier for Mornington Secondary College. To receive first choice of school needs and FREE delivery, orders must be placed online by Wednesday 17th December 2025. Please find links to the Year 7-12 Resource lists at the bottom of this newsletter article. Note: 2026 subject confirmation for Year 9-12 will be communicated mid November, date to be confirmed.
To order, please head to: https://order.campion.com.au/
Your school resource code: VVRH
Your order-by date is 17th December 2025
The How to Order flyer is below.
The Campion Parent Hub includes How to Order video & How to Order PDFs in 11 languages https://campion.com.au/parents/how-to-order/
Family help:
FAQs: https://campion.com.au/support-help/support/
Email help@campion.com.au
Tel 1300 433 982
Remembrance Day Invitation
MSC students, staff and special guests will be in attendance at our Remembrance Day service on Tuesday 11th November, and we extend an invitation to all members of our school community to attend this event. If you would like to attend please RSVP by Friday 31st October via email to mornington.sc@education.vic.gov.au.
2026 Aerobics Squad Sign Up
All current students interested in joining the Aerobics Squad in 2026 are invited to our Come & Try Session on Wednesday the 19th of November, from 3:15-4:30pm in the Herbie Gym. Please ensure you submit your interest through the below link prior to the session.
Indie Jowett
Aerobics Squad Coach
Wellbeing
Junior Rangers
On Wednesday 29th October the Junior Rangers were at Police Point Portsea. With it being such a beautiful day, we went on a cultural walk and then were lucky enough to spend some time at an archaeological dig, where they were finding Indigenous womens' tools from thousands of years ago. We were able to ask questions about the land, archaeology and history. It was such a special day.
Nicole Boland
Mental Health Practitioner
ReachOut - Helping young people feel better
Anonymous and confidential, ReachOut is a safe place where young people can openly express themselves, get a deeper understanding and perspective on what’s happening in their lives, connect with people who will provide judgement-free support, and build the resilience to manage their challenges now and in the future.
Designed with – and specifically for – young people, ReachOut is 100% online, anonymous and confidential, and lets young people connect on their terms. From one-to-one peer support to tips, stories and resources, ReachOut offers a wide range of support options that allow young people to engage in the ways they want to, when they want to.
ReachOut Links and Topics relevant to our Senior School students and families:
- Guide for parents: How to manage teens’ expectations after exams
- Guide for parents: What to do if your teen is stressed about the future
World Kindness Day - 13th November
Hands on Learning
HoL Friday October 24th
Waterproofing our bricks for the garden retainer was kept to indoors this morning until the sun came out and we were able to work outside. Mr Butcher bought a BBQ grill and showed the crew how to make a BBQ using the outdoor fire pit, so sausages in bread were on the menu today. We also did some garden maintenance and marvelled at our organic, home grown, odd bunch carrots and spring onions. Thanks to the sunshine we had a very productive day.
HoL Wednesday October 29th
A perfect sunny day for the crew to get busy and work outdoors laying down rocks, mowing the lawn, painting the fence and picking up rubbish. Abby kept busy organizing indoor cupboards and draws, and Breiana refused to let her injury to her left hand stop her from participating with painting and cooking. Mr. Pirrie’s delicious bolognaise sauce recipe went down well, followed by brownies dished up by Johnny and Brei. A well-earned game of cricket ended the day nicely. A shout out to Nikki Huebers who worked solidly (consistently). He is the quiet achiever!
Anastasia Maragakis
Hands on Learning Assistant
To learn more or to reach out to us