I am delighted to welcome you back for Term 3 which has started positively, with both students and staff returning refreshed and ready for what is a shorter, but very full term. I know that our Principal, Kelly McGurn, is very much enjoying her Term 3 Long Service Leave and I am pleased to be in the role of Acting Principal for the term.

Staff Professional Learning

Our first day back began with a Professional Learning Day for staff, focusing on enhancing teaching practices and student support. The day included a presentation on the new MACS Vision for Engagement, followed by staff led workshops - The Writing Revolution, Disciplinary Literacy in Action (Years 10-12), High Impact Lessons, Disengaged to Driven, Co-Designing for Change: Voice, Identity and Anti-Racism, Assessment Strategies for Interleaving, Lifting Our Students – Targeted VCE Workshop Development, and Simon PL. We finished the day with a presentation from MacKillop Family Services’ Institute on Trauma Informed Practice which was very informative and much appreciated by staff.

2025 College Production

Our 2025 College Production of Guys & Dolls opened last week to rave reviews! We are incredibly proud of our students and staff, under the direction of Mrs Kylie Donnelly, for creating such a vibrant and professional performance. The final performances of the show are this weekend; we encourage you to come along (if you have not attended) and support our talented students in our dynamic Performing Arts Centre.

School Review

We are continuing our preparations for the whole-school review taking place later this year. Staff have been reviewing key areas of the College’s operations and providing valuable insights that will inform our strategic direction moving forward. This work ensures we remain committed to continuous improvement in both learning outcomes and the overall student experience.

Progress Reporting Interviews

On Monday we had the first of our Progress Reporting Days and I thank parents and guardians, along with our students for their participation in this valuable opportunity to check in with teachers and set goals for the rest of the year.

The second round of interviews will be held on Wednesday 20 August from 2:00pm–8:00pm and all students will be dismissed at 12:30pm on this day.

Important Upcoming Events

Grade 6 Welcome Interviews

We will soon welcome our incoming Year 7 students (Class of 2026) for their Grade 6 Welcome Interviews. This an opportunity for parents and their child to meet with a member of staff to talk about any concerns they may have and what they are looking forward to when they commence in Year 7 in 2026.

On this day, 21 August, Years 7–9 will have a Home Study Day, while classes for Years 10–12 will continue as normal.

Staff Professional Learning Day – Friday 22 August

Please note that Friday 22 August is a student-free day as staff engage in further professional learning, with a focus on Trauma-Informed Practice, learning and teaching, and staff wellbeing.

Vinnies Trivia Night – Friday 29 August

A much-loved tradition, the Vinnies Trivia Night is back! This event raises funds for local Vinnies Conferences and is always a fun and meaningful evening. Keep an eye on our socials for event details and ticket booking.

Father’s Day Breakfast

Celebrate Father’s Day with us at one of our campus breakfasts:

• Rosebud – Tuesday 2 September
• Tyabb – Thursday 4 September
• Mornington – Friday 5 September

Bookings will open soon!

Condolences

As a College community we extend our sincere condolences to the Sanderson and Bam families on the recent passing of Rachael Sanderson (nee Davies). Racheal is mother to current student Abigail and past students Jonah and Torin. Rachael’s family have a long connection with the College as she and her siblings are all former students of the College and Rachael’s father, Noel, held the role of Chair of the College Board for many years. We keep Rachael’s family and friends in our thoughts and prayers at this time.

Grant unto Rachael eternal rest O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. May she Rest in Peace.

Thank you for your continued support throughout this busy and exciting term. As always, we encourage open communication between home and school to support the success and wellbeing of every student.

Warm regards,
Marjorie Canal

ACTING PRINCIPAL