Middle School News
Year 7 to 9
Year 7
What a fantastic beginning to 2023! I could not be prouder of the way this group has settled in and begun their secondary schooling on such a positive note. It really is a testament to students, staff and parents all working together to provide a positive climate to foster strong positive connections to school and learning.
Year 7 Anglesea Camp
Wow, what an adventure!! The highlight of the year so far (I think) for this group. It was amazing to see how galvanised the students came back after this camp. Getting out amongst nature, pushing their limits, stepping outside their comfort zone in the company of each other, really is the making of solid foundational relationships for many years to come. The students participated in a range of activities including surfing, skateboarding and other various adventure activities, with surfing the highlight for the majority of students. Now that the dust has settled on camp and Semester 1, it is time for students to set their sights on making the most of their educational opportunities for remainder of 2023 and beyond.
Year 8
Year 8 have also made a strong start to their learning this year and continue their educational journey after a successful transition in 2022. The focus for 2023 for this group, is not only maximise their learning but to develop strong respectful relationships with each other and staff. We really want Year 8 to focus on the College values of Respect, Fairness and Care and Compassion throughout the remainder of 2023.
Next term during Week 9 we are looking forward to the Camp Rumbug Year 8 Camp. Year 8 families please continue to check Compass for details.
Year 9
City Experience was the highlight for most Year 9 students so far this year! We met each morning at St Augustine’s Parish on Bourke Street. The week kicked off for both groups with a bit of City Experience history from College Principal John Roberts or Assistant Principal Karen Boyle, who also gave students their Amazing Race folders and saw them off for the opening challenge (The Amazing Race). Students participated in a range of activities from Koori Heritages tours, exploring Queen Victoria Market, MCG tour, visiting and role playing at the Old Magistrates Court, City Watch House and Old Melbourne Gaol to Sealife Aquarium and observance of historical significance at The Shrine.
During these events I am pleased to say that EDSC students demonstrated great respect for staff, guides and each other and displayed curiosity in asking valuable and probing questions, throughout a range of contexts.
Students were also given a Cultural Cuisine Challenge to undertake as well, which provided many interesting conversations between staff and students about what their lunch would be for that day. I am again pleased to say students really digested these instructions and didn’t make a meal out of our challenge. Students were seen enjoying meals together and provided pictures of sushi, pho, spicy noodle soups, Mexican burritos, curry laksa, wood fired pizzas, boureks, gozleme, vegetarian curries, ramen and much. I thank the students for really tucking into this part of the experience.
Friday came and the experience came to an end with a presentation/graduation ceremony at the parish. Students were given a City Experience certificate and we announced the winners of the Amazing Race for both groups.
Values Assemblies
Values awards are an integral part of our College program. Recognising students who display College values, reinforce their importance and reward those who display them both in and outside the classroom. For Year 9 the Values Assembly took place on Thursday 15 June. Students were presented with a range of information regarding processes for exams, VCE acceleration advice and we celebrated those students involved in Mermaids, Murder and Mayhem and of course the Values Award winners. (See below for the list)
Year 9 Value Awards - Term 2 2023
Curiosity
9C Melina
9D Lilly
9D Lola
9D Samar
9L Atiya
Excellence
9F Adlee
9L Alroy
Fairness
9B Margherita
9K Bilawal
9K Didi
9K Jasper
Respect
9J Amanda
9J Jasmine
9J Jenica
Resilience
9A Michael
9I Andrew
Teamwork
9C Kirat
9D Heidi
9D Victoria
9F Tsz Ching Monique
Care and Compassion
9B Sienna
9E Hiba
9E Kaylee
9L Kelly
Year 7 and 8 will hold their Values Assembly during PF Week 1 next term. We will hold a joint Year 7 and 8 welcome back assembly with a focus on celebrating the award winners from Term 2 and setting the tone and focus for a new semester of teaching and learning.
Class Captains
Congratulations to all those who received positions of responsibility this semester, in particular the Middle School Class Captains who were presented with their badges at the end of term Values Assemblies. Class Captains will be called upon more throughout semester 2 and in particular will plan an event for each year level. We look forward to see what each group decides to run with.
B Good Fridays !!
Throughout the first part of Term 1 we noticed a trend of poor behaviour at the end of the week, in particular, on Fridays. We found that students were tired and their emotional regulation declined towards the end of the week, including their behaviour. So we trialled B Good Friday with some encouraging results so far. We will continue this into next semester.
The focus for each Friday is to display College values such as:
- Resilience: Get through the last day of the week without an incident and start the weekend happy and with no angry parents to worry about
- Respect: Demonstrating respect for each other in the school yard and of course in the classroom
- Teamwork: Remind each other what day it is…”remember its B Good Friday, come on lets pay attention”
- Fairness: Fairness for everyone involved, including coordinators who don’t want to point out and deal with poor behaviour, rather hero and celebrate excellent behaviour
- Excellence: Getting the most out of the teaching and learning program
- Care and Compassion: For each other and for staff/coordination teams
- Curiosity: Always striving to learn more about the world around us everyday
So…B Good Fridays is here to stay!! Coming to a Friday near you 😊
Justin Bond
Head of Middle School
Mathematical Adventures in the VHAP Masterclass
East Doncaster Secondary College recently played host to an exhilarating Victorian High Ability Program (VHAP) Masterclass, led by the passionate and dedicated teachers, including Ms McLellan, Mr Carpenter, Mr Rabaja, Ms Lewis and Mr Lamb. This event marked the conclusion of a 10-week online extension and enrichment program conducted by Virtual Schools Victoria. The Masterclass welcomed high ability students from Koonung Secondary College for a captivating day of mathematics exploration, featuring a range of engaging activities designed to challenge and inspire.
The Masterclass aimed to provide an enriching experience for students, encouraging them to delve deeper into the world of mathematics and expand their problem-solving skills. The event served as a platform for collaboration and shared learning, bringing together students from different schools to foster an environment of academic excellence.
Throughout the day, the teachers orchestrated a series of captivating activities, each designed to showcase the exciting possibilities inherent in the field of mathematics. One standout challenge was the enthralling code-breaking exercise, where students were tasked with solving a compelling murder mystery. Under the guidance and expertise of their teachers, the students applied their mathematical knowledge to decipher codes and unravel hidden clues, engaging in critical thinking while experiencing firsthand the real-world applications of mathematical problem-solving.
Another highlight of the Masterclass was the practical application of linear graphs to solve real-world problems. The teachers guided the students in understanding the power of graphs in tackling complex scenarios, emphasising the relevance of mathematics in everyday life. By connecting mathematical concepts to practical situations, the students gained a deeper understanding of the importance and utility of mathematics.
Activities also explored the intriguing relationship between mathematics and strategy in various games. Through hands-on experiences, the students honed their logical thinking skills and applied mathematical principles to enhance their gameplay strategies. The teachers provided guidance and support, showcasing how mathematics can be both challenging and enjoyable, revealing new dimensions of engagement and understanding.
Reflecting on their experiences, the students expressed their enthusiasm for the program and the valuable insights gained from it. Aaryan said, "We had VHAP for the whole six sessions which were filled with lots of learning curves and fun. We solved puzzles, played card games which weren't luck-based and used methodical ways to win."
Kingsley expressed his enjoyment of the activities, saying, "I enjoyed today's activities, especially the card game and the murder mystery because they were interesting and exciting."
Johnny echoed this sentiment, saying, "I enjoyed today's experience of challenging myself with math problems while also having fun while doing these things, especially the activities at the Wellbeing Centre and the murder mystery."
The Masterclass at East Doncaster Secondary College reflects the school's commitment to academic excellence and the belief in the potential of its students. Through the guidance and expertise of their teachers, students were provided with opportunities to engage with mathematics in exciting and meaningful ways, fostering a love for learning and opening doors to exciting future prospects.
Brett Lamb
Acting Assistant Principal
Subject Selection Process For 2024
During Term 3, students will plan their program of study for 2024. It is our intention for students and their parents to have a good understanding of the available options.
We want students to select programs that maximise their opportunity for success in their studies, as well as prepare them for post-secondary school success.
By the start of the school holidays, the Subject Selection Course Handbooks will be available on Compass Newsfeed via a link.
The first step in the Subject Selection process, is for students and their parents to read through the subject options and gain a good understanding of the content of each subject to see if it fits with both student interests and aspirations.
The upcoming school holidays are the perfect time for starting this research into the available subjects.
To further assist students in making informed choices, we will be running the following Information Evenings, where students and their parents will participate in small group information sessions to gain an understanding of the process of subject selection and have the opportunity to have their questions answered. These sessions will be hosted by members of the College Leadership Team. Parents and students will also be invited to The John Landy Centre for a Year 10/VCE Subject Expo, where they can explore different courses in more detail.
Year 9 students entering Year 10 in 2024
Year 10 2024 Information Evening: Thursday 20 July 7pm – 8:30pm
Year 10 students entering Year 11 in 2024
Year 11 2024 Information Evening: Thursday 27 July 7pm -8:30pm
Following on from the Information Evenings, students will be asked to submit their subject selections online. They will then participate in a Course Counselling Interview with a member of the College Leadership Team, the purpose of which is to confirm the most appropriate program of study is being considered for each student. Most of these interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams.
Course Counselling Interviews will be held on the following dates:
Thursday 27 July: Year 11s (going into Year 12 2024)
Tuesday 1 August: Year 9G to 9L (going into Year 10 2024)
Wednesday 2 August: Year 10 (going into Year 11 2024)
Thursday 3 August: Year 9A to 9F (going into Year 10 2024)
More detailed information will be provided to students and parents early next term regarding the above-mentioned events.
Kate Leaumont
Head of Senior School
Cybersafety and Responsible Use of Digital Technologies
Cyberbullying is direct verbal or indirect bullying behaviours using digital technologies. This includes harassment via a mobile phone, setting up a defamatory personal website or deliberately excluding someone from social networking spaces. It is important to stay safe when you are online. It is also important to know where to ask for help and guidance if you are experiencing Cyberbullying. Please find below links to useful information and guidance on seeking help regarding Cyberbullying.
https://kidshelpline.com.au/kids
https://www.esafety.gov.au/young-people
https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/counselling-support-services
If students have any questions regarding Cybersafety, Digital Learnings in Schools, or our Mobile Phone Policy, please contact the Middle School office or the Student Wellbeing Office.
Cameron Campbell
Assistant Principal
1 to 1 Digital Learning Program 2023 and Laptop Configuration Bookings
In 2023 we continue with our whole school 1 to 1 Digital Learning Program for all students.
The purchase of these devices is crucial to the learning program as students will access eBooks rather than an extensive number of expensive textbooks.
Details of the 1 to 1 Digital Learning Program for all students and important information regarding suitable devices are detailed in the attached policy.
**Please note that the JB Hi Fi Solutions portal is no longer open for the sale of devices. This service is not available for 2023 purchases.
Parent Payment arrangements for 2023
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Please find attached the Parent Payment arrangements for 2023. They are available for payment via Compass on your home page under “Course Confirmation/Payments”.
Alternatively, payments can be made directly to the College via credit card or cash using the College Payment Envelope. Please ensure you download the attached form for the appropriate 2023 year level. Payment envelopes can be dropped off at the College in the locked drop box at Reception.
Your ongoing support of the College allows us to continue to offer a broad range of programs and enhanced curriculum experiences.
Please refer to the attached Parent Payments Policy and further links to information via https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/parent-payment/policy
John Roberts
Principal
Child Safety and Wellbeing at East Doncaster Secondary College: information for families and the school community
The Victorian Government has announced new Child Safe Standards to further strengthen child safety across organisations, including schools. The new standards recognise the critical importance of families and the broader school community in maintaining and promoting child safety and wellbeing.
East Doncaster Secondary College has reviewed and updated our child safety policies and procedures to ensure they meet the requirements of the new standards. These are available to view on our school’s website, on a Compass News Feed, at the school’s Reception.
We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to child safety and wellbeing and welcome feedback from families and members of our school community on ways we can further strengthen our child safety policies, procedures and practices.
If you have any suggestions, comments or questions, please contact the Principal, John Roberts or Assistant Principal, Cameron Campbell.
https://www.eastdonsc.vic.edu.au/our_school/child-safety-standards
Student Medical Expenses
Parents/carers are reminded that they are liable for all medical expenses incurred as a result of a student’s injury or medical need, including transport costs such as ambulance costs (this may include an air ambulance should that be considered necessary).
Parents/carers are responsible for any medical expenses (including ambulance costs) incurred if their child is injured or requires medical treatment or an ambulance while at school or participating in a school activity.
Parents/carers may not be called if an ambulance is required, until after an ambulance is called, depending on the situation. The College staff will use their judgment as to what action to take in cases of a student’s accident or sudden illness.
We encourage parents/carers to have up-to-date ambulance cover and medical insurance.
Damage to Students’ Personal Items/Property
Parents/guardians are reminded that any personal item/property that is brought to school by a student is the responsibility of the student and is not the responsibility of the school and is not covered by school insurance. Refer to Personal Possessions Of Students Policy in the EDSC Policy handbook on the College website. Students are responsible for personal items/property they bring to school. Neither the Department nor the school is responsible if any student’s personal item/property is lost, stolen or damaged.
Privacy and Data at East Doncaster Secondary College
East Doncaster Secondary College uses several digital platforms to support your child’s education, such as Compass, Google Drive, Office 365, Edapt, Oliver Library Management System. The College has an Information Security Policy and complies with the Department of Education and Training Privacy Policy. The attached documents provide further information about these services, privacy and how data is managed.
Privacy information for these platforms can be viewed here:
Student Compass ID/Library/PTV Cards
Please remind all students that they must carry their Student Compass ID/Library/PTV Cards with them at all times.
ALL students must sign in/out with their card at the General Office when they are arriving late or leaving early for any reason. A reminder that Year 12 students are required to sign in/out at The John Landy Centre Compass Kiosk.
The cards are also used for any student photocopying that is done at school. The EDSC Student Compass ID/Library/PTV is also the student PTV (Public Transport Victoria) cards. They are required to carry this card as student identification while travelling on public transport.
If a student loses their card, parents/guardians are able to re-order a replacement card via the Compass parent portal.
