Principals Report 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

These past weeks feel as though there is a resemblance of pre-COVID times and everyone appears to have settled into the rhythm of school. Our Year 12's started their final exams this week and there was much excitement and nervous energy. We wish them well with their exams. 

During this term, where we can and within COVID restrictions, we are focusing on providing students with opportunities and programs that have been missed throughout the year. Our Year 11 cohort were able to participate in their Retreat Program at Halls Gap last week. The feedback was very positive and having experienced some time with them over the three days, I was very impressed with their engagement and enthusiasm. I would like to thank, in particular, Mr Danny Franc, Director of Faith and Mission, who organised the retreat and all of the staff who supported him and the students. Year 10 work experience begins next week and students have been busy organising work placements in the local area. This has been a challenge for some students who had arranged their work experience in areas like Melbourne and needed to change to a local business. Mr. Michael Harms, Careers Co-Ordinator, has been extremely pro-active in supporting our Year 10's in finding suitable placements and I thank him for this. The annual Army Cadet Dinner went ahead on Saturday 7th November. This celebration recognised the efforts of our senior Cadet leaders and the challenges they have had during the year. Again, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff involved in running the Monivae Army Cadet Unit and Major Phillip O'Keefe for his leadership throughout the year.

Online Parent/Teacher interviews scheduled last night (Thursday 12th November) are an ongoing trial to determine whether we continue with them into the future. This year has enabled the College to re-think our traditional ways and to explore other possibilities to connect and communicate with our community. Parent/Teacher interviews online are one area that we recognise may have a benefit for all. Many students travel great distances to attend Monivae, and that tyranny of distance impacts a parent's ability to attend events such as this. The College welcomes any feedback from the online Parent/Teacher night which will enable us to improve the experience for all. A link for feedback is provided in this Newsletter from Mrs. Yvette Colquhoun, Director of Studies.

This week, the College completed Literacy and Numeracy testing of all our Year 7-10 students. The data gathered from the students will guide and inform the College in identifying any gaps in your childs learning as a result of learning from home. This is a priority moving into 2021,  to make sure no student has been disadvantaged. 

With the year rapidly coming to a close, I can only reinforce what a delight it is to have our students back at school this term. Our community is strong and vibrant.

Kind regards,

Jonathan Rowe

Principal.