Secondary School News

End of Term Update

I would like to congratulate all the students for a fantastic end to 2023. It's been wonderful to see all of them participate in the Color Run today as the final celebration of the 2023 school year.

Semester Two Reports are available for download from Compass. Please take time to read these with your child and have a conversation around their learning.

It was fantastic to have all of our 2024 Year Seven students at school for orientation day. It was wonderful to see all of our current Year Six students in brand new classes and interacting with brand new teachers, getting ready for their secondary school education. We are excited for all of them to join us next year in secondary school.

It was a day of celebration for our Year 12 results last Monday when they received their Year 12 results and the final conclusion to their secondary education. I'd like to congratulate our Dux of Wurun who scored 98.05 on their ATAR. I'd also like to congratulate the five students who have been shortlisted for the Seasons of Excellence series in 2024 across different Art subjects.

Many thanks to the following staff who are departing at the end of this year. I would like to thank them for their hard work and dedication to our students this year and the many years prior. They will be missed.

- Ken Watson

- John Gioskis

- Vince Vignuoli

- Tom O’Connell

- Mel Truman

- Rebecca Hodder

- Penny Marangos

We are excited for 2024 to introduce new teachers joining us:

- Simon Negrelli (Maths/Coding)

- Mihiran De Silva (Maths)

- Euan Morton (English/Humanities) – returning from leave

- Sophie Tayton (Senior Health)

- Felix Beck-Swindale (Outdoor Education, Health & PE)

Wishing all families a very safe holiday period. We look forward to seeing you back at school on Wednesday, the 31st of January.

Kind Regards,

Angela Watters

Secondary Assistant Principal

More Secondary News

It’s been a BIG term and all students are congratulated on their efforts and achievements.

Another successful examination period recently took place for Year 9 and 10 students. Year 9 students completed an additional exam this time - undertaking exams in Science, Math and English - as it is important for students to gradually build confidence and skills in managing the demands of completing assessments under examination conditions. Well done to all!

Academic and achievement certificates were also awarded to students at end of term assemblies where students were acknowledged for their dedicated approaches to learning.

Takeover Melbourne Writing Competition

Last week I was fortunate to attend the celebration evening for the Takeover Melbourne writing competition with Charlotte Bailey, Senior English Leader, where two Collingwood College students were finalists - Kai Stephenson-Lum and Sophia Twigg-Edward. Both students were selected to work with ABC Producers to turn their story into a piece of media for play on the ABC. Please visit the website for more information and to view the entries: https://www.abc.net.au/takeover/programs/takeover-melbourne/meet-the-2023-winners/103053782

An amazing achievement Kai and Sophia - thank you for sharing your stories with other people 🙂

I was very excited to share information with parents at the end of Orientation Day about the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) that will start with all Year 7 students enrolled in mainstream classes next year. This will be the start of a very exciting journey for our college and I look forward to implementing the programme and working with families to provide positive educational experiences. It was also a delight to meet our incoming students throughout the day and undertake a class together.

All the best for a wonderful break with family. I look forward to starting next year with you.

Lori Michael

Teaching and Learning Leading Teacher

Melbourne University Dookie Farming Camp 2023

From Wednesday, the 29th of November, to the 1st of December, a group of Year 9 students embarked on a memorable journey to The University of Melbourne, Dookie campus, located just 30 minutes from Shepparton. The Melbourne University Farming Camp was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Cybec Foundation. Despite arriving an hour late, we were warmly welcomed as they walked through the doors. The camp kicked off with a safety intro and a group game, followed by the division of students into two groups: A-K and L-Z. The first day was filled with engaging activities, including a milk protein and cheese-making class in the lab and a visit to the Dookie Robotic Dairy.

Afterward, we enjoyed a two-hour free time session and a delicious dinner offering choices of schnitzel or roast lamb with veggies and chips, all topped with gravy. The evening ended with a movie night, providing a relaxing atmosphere before curfew. The second day began with a hearty breakfast, followed by a bus trip to Mount Major for a hiking adventure that lasted just over an hour. Morning tea was enjoyed before heading back to the bus for a visit to a wheat crop. Activities included matching soil colours, observing water in the crops, and other insightful tasks. Lunch was served back on campus, and the day continued with pig and wheat workshops, offering hands-on experiences and valuable insights. For the second night, we had the option of spaghetti or chicken, with many happily opting for the nostalgic choice of spaghetti—a classic camp favourite. A trivia night followed dinner, bringing teams together for a fun and stimulating activity. The night ended with a card game, creating lasting memories for all involved.

On the final day, we packed up and attended a sheep and wool workshop for their last class. The workshop included learning about wool and sheep, complete with a demonstration of sheep shearing. After lunch, the group took a final photo, exchanged goodbyes, and expressed gratitude to the team that looked after them during the three days. Special thanks were extended to the Cybec Foundation for making the Melbourne University Dookie Farming Camp possible.

Written by:

Mackenzie Arnold 9A

Rotary Youth Sailing Challenge

Earlier this year, Casey Mathieson and I were sponsored by Collingwood Rotary. This enabled us to embark on a 7-day voyage on a tall ship, the One & All, from Melbourne to Port Adelaide in June. This program, the Rotary Youth Sailing Challenge, aims to get young people outdoors and out of their comfort zones. We were two of twenty-four other young people onboard, plus approximately 10 other adults. We were split into three groups and each group would take turns being on watch, even throughout the night! Being on watch included steering the ship (helming), keeping a lookout and furling/unfurling sails.

In the mornings we’d wake up and get straight into team building exercises on the foredeck. We’d also spend a great deal of our days cleaning, whether that be on deck, in the saloon or down below in the bathrooms (the heads).

We learnt so many new things, including all about the sails, the ropes, and navigation. We saw plenty of wildlife such as albatross and lots of dolphins too!

We met so many great friends from this experience and are still keeping in touch. It was a fantastic opportunity and we are so grateful!

Sari Williams

Aish's (Rotary Interact) Presidents Words

Dear Fellow Interactors, Supporters, and Community Members,

I am immensely proud to share the remarkable achievements and impactful initiatives accomplished by our dedicated team at Rotary Interact. Our collective efforts have truly made a difference, demonstrating the power of collaboration and compassion within our school and beyond.

Firstly, our Food Drive for the local food bank stands as a testament to our commitment to addressing food insecurity. Through the generosity and unwavering support of our school community, we were able to collect an astounding amount of provisions, providing essential sustenance to those in need. Your contributions have directly alleviated hunger for many individuals and families, embodying the spirit of service and empathy.

In addition to our philanthropic endeavours, our creativity shone through in the design of our Varsity Jacket, a symbol of our unity and pride in our Interact community. The distinctive design not only represents our club but also serves as a reminder of our shared dedication to service above self.

Our venture into the vibrant world of 80s fashion was not only a lively and enjoyable experience but also a meaningful fundraiser for homeless youth.

The culmination of our efforts was evident in our spectacular Music Festival, Swing into Spring, where talent and passion merged to create an unforgettable experience.

Our participation in the Flag Bearing opportunity at the Rotary Interact International Conference was a true honour and privilege. Representing our club on such a prestigious platform allowed us to exhibit our dedication to Rotary values while connecting with like-minded individuals from across the globe.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every individual who contributed their time, resources, and enthusiasm to make these initiatives a resounding success. Together, we have proven that when we unite with a shared purpose, we can create a positive and lasting impact on our community and the world.

Let us continue to strive for excellence in service and uphold the principles of Rotary Interact, embodying the motto, "Service Above Self."

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication.

Sincerely,

Aish

Rotary Interact President

Listening Deeper - Year 9 Journeys Program

Our final journeys program camp had three groups, two setting off on Monday, one on Sunday. Something in me felt that we had already learnt all that this program was to teach, or at least me personally. This time I just wanted to take it all in. We all wanted to remember this forever even if no one said it aloud. It was one of our last chances to embrace what the Steiner program has to offer. All its magnificent details. I think that this trip taught me more even when I only tried to take in the view.

As we made our way up the coast, past rocky beaches filled with life, and shrubby bushland lookouts of the Bass Strait, I learnt to listen. Not only for the expected sounds of the dirt beneath my boots, waves rolling onto land or insects chirping, but something further.

There was already an ambience to this little world, the sound of its greatness all around you. On Tuesday, we set out early for Aire River, so as not to be caught in the sun. We broke out onto the coastline high above the ocean, soon finding a lookout point to grab some brekky. Our guide Maddie read us a story, from a small paperback book as we just sat in the moment. This story was about a man, one that could hear every sound. Even the ones that are hidden: the singing of the trees and hills, the roots that run beneath us and the water that cycles in and out in constant motion. I tried very hard to hear the sounds the man heard. I let my thoughts float away and listened. For ten minutes we sat in pure silence. But all I could hear were the usual suspects of sound. The ones common to human ears.

I think there is something to learn from listening like this, a knowledge that is unexplainable. I would love to hear the singing of nature, that is what this experience gave me. I believe that you have to have a deep sentiment for the thing you wish to hear; a respect. I applaud those who can connect like that with their environment. The Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung people, custodians of this beautiful stretch of land up the south-west coast of Victoria. Understand this connection, to be one with your environment, to have a civility so broad and everlasting. The land is what gives us our food, resources and joy. That is something First Nations People understand about Australia. Gathering from plants and studying their effects, hunting animals with dignity and humanity. How could these things not bring you closer to your home?

The ability to listen deeper is a skill I will try to improve, it’s also something I have never felt so in tune with as on this camp. I thank Collingwood for this amazing opportunity. And the chance to see this thriving part of the country.

Written by

Raf Blount

Reflections on 2023 from Students - Years 7-9

Reflection #1

Homework and school work will always be hard, but in life those life skills and their outcomes will turn out for the best.

Seeing people go, and grow up… and seeing people change takes a work of heart.

But as I say, isn’t life about change? Because changes will become the best things you ever experience.

But, you can't tell the future.

But you can tell which path you go on.

The decisions you make, make you who you want to become.

But in life you will experience good vibes, and negative vibes. But you don’t have to rely on everyone that comes your way. Just follow what you believe in.

But during this year, a lot of people went from being an over-thinker to becoming an achiever. All of this happened at Collingwood College throughout the year filled with lessons, excursions and peers.

Jaymee Potini 7A

Reflection #2

2023 has been a big year for seven steiner. It was everyone’s first year of high school, which can be frightful at times, but with such friendly peers and helpful teachers, we all made it to the end of the year.

Towards the end of each term, we had our eurythmy performances. Although most found eurythmy boring, Rie continued to make it a fun class and was extremely good at teaching us. Despite our performances not being the best, Vera always tied it together with her lovely piano skills.

Another hurdle we had to jump was NAPLAN. Although most of us were not enthusiastic about it, we all persevered and made our best efforts. Not only does this go for NAPLAN, but for all tests done throughout the year.

Tony Farchione 7D

Reflection #3

This piece is about my year 8 journey. At the beginning of the year I was new to Australia, and I knew nothing about Australian schools. We had been given a timetable at the beginning of February.

In that timetable we had some teachers such as: Nick, Felicia, Yonghee, Amy and Emily. A part of our time table was all Wednesdays we were going to excursions. Another thing was we had some special events as well like one where we went to fun fields, lake mountain, swimming carnival and so on.

In term two I moved to Year 8 because before that I was in ELC (English Language Center). When I moved to year 8 I was a bit nervous because most of my classmates were new to me. For the rest of the year, we didn’t go on as many excursions but that changed in the last week during which we had a lot of activities. Monday we had an amazing race. We went to the city to do some activities then we went to Melbourne Central and we had fun. On Tuesday we went to the zoo and we saw animals. We had fun and we bought some stuff for ourselves. Wednesday we had a talent show; we made jokes, and did some singing. Thursday was movie and stencilling day and on Friday we had the Athletics carnival. We played sports and it was fun, even though my legs hurt a bit at times.

Matin Tarokh 8A

(Started in the ELC and moved to Mainstream)

Reflection #4

My year 8 journey was a blast and my class, the year 8 Steiners, did a lot of things. On the first day of school I was a bit nervous about year 8 because I thought we were going to get a lot more homework. Surprisingly it wasn’t that bad and I didn’t get that much homework. After a few weeks of school we had our swimming carnival at Collingwood pool. People from year 5-9 swam in competitive races and raced for prizes; we also had sausage sizzle and a bunch of smaller activities.

In term 2 the year 8s presented their year 8 projects they have been working on since December 2022. All the presentations went well and people were happy to finish them.

In term 3 my class (8C) performed a play called A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. We’d started learning our lines back in term 2 and had a few weeks to rehearse in the theatre. We performed our play to the year 7s and the parents.

In term 4 our class had our camp. We went on a hike in the mountains at a place called Wollongara. We went out for a week and it was a blast! We caught the train from Collingwood station to Southern Cross then we got off and caught a train to Traralgon station then the staff at Wollongara picked us up then we drove about an hour out then hiked into the farmstead. We sat down and got separated into two different groups, my group was the Wombats and the other group was the Kangaroos. The next day my group left for a two-day hike through the mountains. The first day was long and rainy but we got to our destination in the end. The second day was rough! We climbed very steep rocky slopes but it was worth it. We stayed near an old run down shack near a river we went down and skimmed some rocks. We came back and cooked dinner at camp and slept. The next day we had a big climb and we had to leave early as it was long and hot but we had a good lunch when we came back and a big yummy dinner where we dressed up and had lamb stew and we had to eat with different types of utensils like a whisk or tongs. On the last day we left it was very fun but I think everyone wanted to go home.

Aubrey Keen 8C

Reflection #5

I am a Year 9 student and have been at Collingwood College since Year 7. I love it here and appreciated all the opportunities that were given to me. Since I started here I have been a Steiner student and I have been able to participate in excursions and camps. My favourite camp was a recent one where I went for the GOW which in full is the Great Ocean Walk, where we hiked from Apollo Bay to Johanna Beach. It was altogether very exhausting, but I learnt lots of new things that expanded my knowledge about camping. I would recommend someone from the outside to go to Collingwood College as it has great teachers and you will be introduced to many opportunities. I also acted in a Shakespearean play called Romeo and Juliet. I acted as Benvolio, the cousin of Romeo. If you are interested in science, specifically agriculture, make sure to sign the forms for the Dookie Camp in Year 9. I enjoyed it, especially the fact we were given our own dormitory room. I learnt how to shear sheep and make cheese on my own. This was part of a ‘Science Experience’ at the University of Melbourne. These are just a few of the highlights of the year 9 Steiner program.

Ami-Aseda Adediran 9C

Reflection #6

Throughout the year, students in year 9 had the opportunity to participate in a range of different activities, including the following.

A group of year 7 to year 10s participated in volleyball at Pascoe Vale Girls and came 3rd out of 5 teams.
All of the year 9s participated in the My Career Insights. We did multiple online tests in 1 day and all the answers were based on what we answered to the questions.
NAPLAN was a big success over the 3 days we completed it.
We had a visit from the author Tony Birch who wrote one of the books we studied in English called Shadowboxing. We enjoyed listening to the book and about what was happening when he was younger. We also visited the Melbourne museum as part of the Tony Birch visit.
We had a Know your Rights incursion where a few people came into the school and talked about our rights when working at a job.
Swing into Spring was a big success this year. The rotary stall was one of the biggest stalls to raise money.
Subject selection was an important event in term. I was lucky enough to get into all the subjects for which I applied. I’m excited for 2024.
The year 9s had a visit to the University of Melbourne in Footscray where we did a few fun things like a scavenger hunt, and solved a mystery case.
RIJI (Real Industry Job Interviews) mock interview happened not that long ago where all the year 9s walked over to the Town Hall and did a fake interview to get us ready for getting a job in the real world.
Our first enhancement meeting was a big success. We met up with our Enhancement mentor, Xiaoming, and talked about what we should expect in our VCE or VET subject next year.
The exams we sat in recent weeks as well as those last semester were successful. Personally, I thought the English and the Science exams were the easiest.
Ashanti and I travelled to Camberwell Grammar for a Rotary Interact conference. We had a really good day and came up with some good ideas including some good collaborations with Melbourne Girls’ College as they are a neighbourhood school.

Mackenzie Arnold 9A

INSTRUMENTS FOR SALE (updated 18 May) - Contact Person - Steve Wu

Please click on the attachment below to see a list of Stringed instruments for sale. If you have an instrument for sale please email Steve at: fengchih.09@gmail.com

List of instruments for sale - 18 May 2023.pdf

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