MY News

Good afternoon Lakes Families,

I have to say that our students have been extremely well settled and conscientious considering the ongoing hot and humid weather. They have behaved magnificently which is a credit to them and to you as parents and carers. I feel very proud on duty at lunchtimes and after school. Many positive conversations are had and there is an incredibly supportive atmosphere that permeates throughout the campuses. I would also like to thank our teachers for a very strong start to the year. Planning is meticulous, students have clearly defined plans and expectations, and there is a commitment by all to learning and student outcomes. You can support your children by reminding them to check their diaries for materials needed at school, reading with them on a regular basis and going through key dates each week as numerous events are on that engage and challenge our students in and out of school, highlighting our traditional aim for authentic learning at all times.

Thank you to our families who attended the Year 9 to 10 information Evening on Tuesday. This is often a stressful time because key decisions need to be made regarding the senior education of the students. At The Lakes, this meeting signals the beginning of this process. We always provide ongoing individual support and a transition process that most other secondary students will receive in year 10. Throughout the year, students will have visited our key school providers and had numerous talks from careers staff. The Year 9’s will also experience life on a university or tertiary campus and Melbourne Polytechnic. We also had the return to school BBQ with our 2017 Year 9 cohort. It is wonderful to catch up with many of our alumni and to hear how they have settled in to their schools.

Please be advised that appointments through the general office are required for teacher meetings. It is not appropriate to engage teachers just before the bell begins for school or straight after school. This will enable effective dialogue and accurate information to be passed on without distractions at this critical time in the day. Similarly, we need to focus on punctuality at the start of the day as there is no Home Group time. Leave plenty of time for safe travel to school. Our surrounding roads are getting very busy with local traffic and construction vehicles. This has been raised with the City Of Whittlesea for their review. The warning music begins at 8:55 am and classes start at 9:00 am sharp. Advocates meet with their students in other sessions and at Home Group assemblies. It is also critical for school accountability that all absences are explained. Do not send your child back to school without a note unless a phone call or medical certificate has been administered in advance. Your continued cooperation in this space is greatly appreciated.

We have two vacancies for parents/carers on School Council. This is a two year appointment, requires you to attend two meetings per term and be an active sub-committee member. It is a very rewarding experience because it provides a valuable insight to school operations and an opportunity to participate in projects and decision making that shapes the future direction of the school. Please contact the general office for further information.

Have a great weekend!

Bill