Dempsey's Digest

Dempsey’s Digest

One of the many things that I have appreciated about MECS is the way that our community kicks in when there is need. Last Monday, following the wild weather and winds that reminded us of the 2021 winds through the hills, we were left with no power here at MECS. It was also a miserable day; cold, wet and dark, which left our classrooms cold and not particularly light. It was amazing to see the way that our teachers got creative and made the most of the light that we had (the Bilbies had little battery-operated lanterns on their tables). Thanks to parents who encouraged our staff during a challenging day and thanks to our staff for supporting each other. 

Industry Week

I was so impressed with the way that our Year 9 students managed themselves and others during Industry Week, which culminated in a wonderful celebration on Market Evening. With Eli B at the helm as the General Manager (and what a firm and encouraging manager he was), the students thrived in their work spaces and created so many exciting products. I was personally very pleased with my screen printed tea towel, my succulents in a fancy Chanel teapot, my small cheese board and I sampled plenty of fudge (the mint one was my favourite). On the Market Evening, the food on hand was delicious (I thought I hated corn dogs, but I don’t). Congratulations to the entire Year 9 team who allowed the students to shine in this hands-on opportunity for learning. 

Jam Junction

Who doesn’t love a bit of live music to sit back and listen to? Our Theatrette was packed with parents and students from Years 7 – 12 who took opportunities to give playing piano, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, electric guitar, drums, percussion, or voice a go! There was definitely a buzz in the room and lots of nerves as well. What’s important to note is that these evenings are about giving things a go. They are not about super polished performances (though there were a number of those, as well). If you can’t practice your craft in real life settings, you simply can’t improve. So, mistakes were made, and our young people were guided and celebrated. I love that we can be real, together. 

CEN State Forum

I appreciated attending the Christian Education National State Forum with members of our board. This was an opportunity to hear about what is happening with CEN at both a state and national level. It was great that the new CEO, Mark Steyn could be there to give some intel into some changes across CEN in relation to governance support and local state level support. He is a great guy with an incredibly warm persona. 

During the evening, we heard reports from various schools around how they had used state grants that they had accessed, through CEN. This included us. We were able to access a small grant to send two people to the recent ITEC conference in Perth and one of our staff members, Emma Allison, was also able to report on how grant funds had assisted her in the ongoing pursuit of her studies through the National Institute for Christian Education. Emma spoke beautifully as she shared the impact of her journey through Christian Education. 

Reflections on the Indo trip

If you’d stepped into the Staffroom last Thursday evening, you would have felt like you’d stepped into an Indonesian restaurant or spa. There were plants and lamps and small tea lights on the tables to create a lovely atmosphere as the back drop to hearing wonderful stories of the impact of the Indo trip on our young people. Clearly, as with any cultural experience, it is the people that have a huge impact on us and it was lovely to hear our students reflect so warmly on the kind nature and inclusive behaviour of the Indonesian people that they met and spent time with. 

It was also delightful to hear the staff reflect on the behaviour and attitudes of our students who attended the trip. What a memorable experience this was for our students and staff. 

Strategic Planning

Following the feedback received from staff, students and parents in relation to MECS, it was great to get started on the strategic planning process over last weekend. Facilitated by Mark Steyn and Yvonne Bradley from Christian Education National, it was great to spend time with our board and members of staff, digesting the feedback and begin to build a new strategy for MECS, moving forward. You will hear much about this in the coming months as we firm up the plan and begin to provide feedback, to you. There is much to celebrate about MECS and much to apply ourselves to in the coming years as we seek to honour God first, in our endeavours. 

Working Bee

It was great to hear that many families came out for the Working Bee last weekend and to see the work that had been achieved! Congratulations to Daniel Chatelier and the team for coordinating this successful morning and thanks so much to all of you parents who picked up a shovel, secateurs, brooms, hoses etc to clean up the school. There was so much leaf litter and branches around thanks to the storms, so this was no simple task.