PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

Last week we recognised and celebrated National Reconciliation week which is recognised on 27 May - 3 June each year. This is an important time to reflect on our indigenous heritage.

The theme for Reconciliation Week this year was “Now, more than ever” reminding us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will and must continue.

It is a time all Australians can learn about our first nations peoples' histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

WEAR IT YELLOW 

As a part of our commitment to building understanding and respect for First Nations peoples, the McKinnon community came together during Reconciliation Week to participate in the Wear It Yellow/Red/Black Day campaign. This event, where students and staff wore a splash of red, yellow or black and brought a gold coin donation for the not-for-profit organisation Children’s Ground, raised awareness and much-needed funds for Indigenous communities.

The event was supported by our student led Interact Club, who held a festive and very successful BBQ fundraiser at lunchtime on both campuses. 

At the end of the week, I was very pleased to be able to announce that these joint efforts meant we raised over $3000 for Children’s Ground. Through Children’s Ground, our money will contribute to creating long-term change for at-risk Indigenous children, their families and communities. 

Thank you to Ms Emily Condell, the Global Youth Forum, our Student Councils and the entire McKinnon community for supporting this important cause. 

VCE MUSIC NIGHT 

Congratulations to all our VCE Music Performance students, for their outstanding performances last night at the VCE Music Night. The standard was at the highest that we've seen, we are so proud of you. The dedication and commitment to your instrument is impressive, as is the hard work that was clearly demonstrated last night. We look forward to watching you perform throughout the year, as you continue to reach your potential.

Thank you to the audio-visual team, the staff who attended and helped out with the evening. Also, the friends and families who attended and their continued support. 

Thank you to Andrew Albanis for organising this great event.

VOLLEYBALL SCHOOLS CUP

On Monday 3 June - Wed 5 June McKinnon Volleyball entered 17 teams into the Three Days Schools Cup for Years 7-9. 

Congratulations to our Victorian Champions Year 9 Boys Honours and Year 9 Girls Honours for taking home the gold medal. 

Well done to our Year 8 Boys Honours earning a bronze medal and our Year 7 Boys Division 1 bringing home a silver medal. 

The support and commitment from all of our teachers, athletes, coaches and families was absolutely  incredible. Well done to all involved and to Sandy Hope who oversees this amazing program.

SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA

Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to represent Team Vic through the School Sport Victoria pathway. 

These students will be competing in national competitions in the coming months: 

• Ishi Tiwari, Year 9 (Cricket)
• Harish Salwathura, Year 9 (Cricket)
• Brooklyn Riwaka, Year 10 (Softball & Baseball)
• Olin Buisman, Year 10 (Triathlon)
• Michael Gordeyev, Year 9 (Volleyball)
• Kynan Enwright, Year 9 (Volleyball)
• Jayvier Yang, Year 9 (Volleyball)
• Rosie O'Brien, Year 9 (Volleyball)

This is a huge achievement to be recognised as one of the top performing athletes in their field in the state. Congratulations on your success!

EXAMS

Our Years 10 and 11 exams will be undertaken in the coming weeks. These exams are an important part of our Teaching and Learning Program and I know our students will work hard to achieve their best.

Year 11 exams

Will be held from Friday 7 June - Monday 17 June

Year 10 Study Day

Tuesday 11 June

Year 10 exams

Will be held from Wednesday 12 June - Monday 17 June

VCAA GAT (all students undertaking a Unit 3 / 4 subject) and Correction Day Thursday 18 June (pupil free day for all students not undertaking the GAT).