Principal's Message

Education Week is a special time on the college calendar — an opportunity not only to reflect on the achievements of our students and staff, but also to actively celebrate the richness and diversity of our learning community.

This year, our Junior Campus buzzed with excitement as we warmly welcomed families to engage in a variety of activities that truly showcased the inclusive and nurturing culture we take great pride in fostering. From the well-attended Kindergarten to Prep Transition Tour to the Open Morning, where parents, grandparents and special friends gathered, a strong sense of belonging and connection was clearly felt throughout. Attendees praised the welcoming atmosphere, the calm demeanour of our students who exemplified our core values, the enthusiasm of both students and teachers and the unique opportunity to experience our vibrant learning environment firsthand. Many remarked on how clearly the college’s commitment to relationships, community and the joy of learning shone through — values that were beautifully evident throughout the entire week.

One of the standout moments was Simultaneous Storytime, where we were joined by college alumni and truck owner Tim Turner, who delighted students with a reading of The Truck Cat. This heartwarming event was a powerful reminder of the role storytelling plays in connecting generations — especially when shared by someone who once walked the same corridors. It beautifully illustrated the strong ties within our school community and the lasting impact of shared experiences.

alk Safely to School Day also brought great energy and enthusiasm. With local police officer Natalie joining in the fun — handing out temporary tattoos as students completed laps of Gilligan’s Island — the morning was filled with laughter and camaraderie. Events like these do more than promote healthy habits; they foster a shared culture of care, support and community engagement.

Lunchtimes offered yet another avenue for exploration and connection. With this year’s theme focussed on the Celebration of Cultures, students enthusiastically participated in activities that encouraged curiosity, understanding, and respect for cultural diversity. They built flags from around the world using LEGO, engaged in cultural sports and games and enjoyed music and dance sessions that introduced them to global traditions.

A particularly meaningful highlight was the exploration of Marrung — a Wemba Wemba word for the Murray Cypress pine tree, symbolising the many branches of education and knowledge. This powerful cultural metaphor encouraged students to reflect on their own stories. Using needles from our own cypress pine tree, they created clay constructions representing something important about themselves and their cultural identity. It was a beautiful, hands-on expression of self and belonging — reinforcing the idea that every culture has a story worth telling and every student has a voice worth hearing.

By celebrating culture in such engaging and meaningful ways, we help students develop a stronger sense of identity, greater empathy for others and a deeper appreciation for the diverse world they are growing into.

Meanwhile at the Senior Campus, students experienced an equally rich and purposeful week. Year 9 students began their career planning journey with Morrisby interviews, setting the foundation for their futures. Senior students took part in vital health education sessions focussed on the dangers of vaping, whilst Year 10 Humanities students visited the Immigration Museum and the Australian Jewish Museum in  Melbourne — a deeply moving experience that strengthened their historical understanding and sense of compassion.

Our Year 7/8 boys’ netball team represented the college proudly at the GWR Netball Finals, demonstrating teamwork, commitment and sportsmanship. Students also took part in Road Smart interactive sessions, building important knowledge around road safety. In another highlight, Year 6 students from our Junior Campus and nearby primary schools participated in Art and PE transition taster sessions — a valuable step toward easing the move into secondary school and building excitement for what lies ahead.

Education Week is about more than showcasing programs — it is about honouring the values and culture that bring those programs to life. It’s a celebration of learning, of belonging, and of the strong partnerships that exist between students, families, staff and the wider community. When we take the time to reflect on who we are and what we value, we strengthen our shared identity and inspire our young people to grow not only as learners, but as confident, compassionate contributors to the world around them.

Vicki Angus, Principal
Friday 30th May 2025