PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

DRUG AWARENESS INCURSIONS

In Term 2, the Mind, Body & Soul curriculum is focusing on Drug & Alcohol Awareness, educating our students on the potentially harmful risks and outcomes surrounding drugs and alcohol, as well as other risk-taking behaviours. 

As part of this program, Michael Raydan presented to the cohort, telling the story of his past life with addiction and what he believes led him to this life. Michael’s presentation is unapologetically raw and hard hitting. His story and experiences speak the truth of a period of life spent engaging in risk taking behaviour and criminal activity; a life that is not glorified, sugar-coated, nor celebrated. On his road to recovery, Michael focuses on wholesome, meaningful activities, which is another important lesson for young people growing up in a fast-paced society. 

It is this genuine delivery that captivates his audience and allows his message to be delivered, one that we hope allows our students to make healthy decisions for themselves and in support of their friends, family and community.

Thank you to Paul King for organising these incursions, which are an important part of our Mind, Body & Soul program.

YEARS 11 & 12 MUSIC NIGHTS

In Weeks 7 and 8, the VCE Music cohorts had their performance nights. Students presented works from their programs to a live audience to receive feedback on their performances. Both evenings featured a variety of genres, showcasing a mix of group and solo works. 

These performance nights are an essential step in preparing the students for their external exams at the end of Unit 4. In addition to assessed students, many students performed as accompanying players for our VCE cohorts. It was fantastic to see the passion and talent of our music community. 

Thank you to Leah Humphrey, Andrew Albanis, and all the instrumental staff who work tirelessly with these students to prepare them for these enriching experiences. Thank you also to Blanka West for accompanying students and to the MAV team for their ongoing support.

YEAR 9 LANGUAGES EXPO

On Wednesday 11 June, the annual Year 9 Languages Expo was held at our East campus. This event began when Year 9 moved to East campus and has gone from strength to strength every year since.

This year, our seven Year 9 language classes (four French classes, two German classes and a Spanish class) came up with a fascinating range of topics related to the cultures of the languages they are studying - from TinTin to Tanks, and traversing, amongst many others, the Day of the Dead, Haribo, Chupa chups, the Berlin Wall and Napoleon Bonaparte. Food is always popular - groups researched pains au chocolat, sausages, desserts and chocolate.

The atmosphere is always dynamic at the Expo, and this year was no exception. Visitors were able to vote for their favourite group via Google form, and the announcement of the winners is eagerly awaited.

Thanks go to the team of Year 9 language teachers - Ana Gomez (Spanish), Karin Paal (German), Aurianne Brandely (French), Madeleine Remont (French), Jenny Lynd (French), but especially to the Year 9 students for all their efforts.

VM BLIND SOCCER

Last Tuesday, the senior VM class organised a community event featuring a staff vs. student blind soccer match. This student-led initiative was a part of their community project work, and the result was a fantastic, engaging experience for all involved.  The gym was buzzing with energy as a large crowd gathered to watch both students and staff showcase their soccer skills — all while blindfolded! In a thrilling finish, the students narrowly defeated the teachers 2–1. 

Alongside the exhibition match, the VM class also raised funds for Guide Dogs Australia. A wonderful effort and an inspiring example of teamwork, leadership, and community spirit.  

Thank you to Pip Andrieux, Jess Dixon, and the senior VM students for organising this fantastic event, and to the staff and students who participated.

EXAMS

Good luck to our Years 10 and 11 students who are undertaking exams over the next few weeks, with Year 11 commencing tomorrow. These exams are an important part of our Teaching and Learning Program and I know our students will work hard to achieve their best.

NEW GENERAL OFFICE HOURS

Please note that the school General Office hours will be 8:15am - 4:00pm. This will be effective from next Monday 16 June.