海角大神

Activities Week - a great end to Term 2

What a delight it was to be able to join students in each of their Activities Week events across the final week of Term 2. Not only were they exposed to wonderful learning and community-building events, as I joined them I also had a number of 鈥榝irst-time鈥� experiences. For some reason, students seemed eager for me to try anything involving heights or controlled risk - including the 鈥楨dge鈥� experience with Year 9 and Axe-throwing with Year 11 - perhaps ensuring I鈥檝e taken to heart the advice I鈥檝e provided about stepping out of one鈥檚 comfort zone.

 

Term 3 - a time of discernment

For every year level, Term 3 provides opportunities for discernment both for this year and for 2025. The impending Subject Selection period opens increasing choices for students in the Middle Years. Year 10 students have the experiences of their Futures week to help guide them into their VCE or VCE VM pathways as they looks towards their post-school vocational pathway or tertiary studies. Year 12 students will be examining possible VTAC preferences, or workplace and apprenticeship opportunities.

Semester 1 Reports published next week

A great starting point for discerning future directions is your child鈥檚 Semester 1 report, released next week (via PAM). I encourage you to use the report to discuss with your child the successes of Semester 1, and examine the opportunities for improvement. What factors helped the successes? What changes can they make to enhance their learning further in Semester 2?

High School Musical: The Musical

We are all looking forward to seeing the many months of hard work and the talent of our students on display in High School Musical:The Musical, whose tickets went on sale this week. Please see below for details of purchasing tickets for the 7 - 10 August performances.

David Broadbent

Principal

Welcome back to Term 3

The Subject Selection process will begin immediately as term 3 commences. The Subject Selection Web (SSW) is now available on PAM in School Links and all students from Years 8-11 will receive an in class presentation on July 18. You can see each Year Level鈥檚 presentation on the SSW in the Resources section. Our Subject Selection Expo will run on August 15 where students and families will have the opportunity to discuss with teachers their choices for 2025.


Here is the timeline.

Good questions for considering subjects are:

• What do you like?
• What are you good at?
• What do you need for the future?

The more time students and families allocate to making good choices at this stage the more likely a meaningful course of study will be selected.

Reports

Semester 1 Reports will be available on PAM from 2pm Wednesday July 24.

Michael Box

Deputy Principal - Learning

Helping your child set goals for the semester

I hope that the start of the term has begun well for you and your child. Undoubtedly, starting the school term well can set the tone for a successful Semester in the lead up to the transition to the next stage of schooling. As parents, there are some practical approaches that may assist you in enhancing the success of your child.

Establishing a consistent daily routine for bedtime, wake-up time, meals, and homework to help children adjust to the school timetable, particularly with younger students is important. As the term gathers momentum, it is important that students have all necessary school supplies, including all items of the College uniform, stationery, books and electronic devices.

Talking to your child about their goals for the school term, both academic and personal is a key for their success. Setting realistic and achievable goals can motivate them and provide the parameters under which they can make positive progress. The College is about to embark on subject selections and more and more opportunities will emerge as the students progress through the years. Having clear plans and goals will assist the process.

In my experience, setting up a quiet and organised study area at home, where your child can focus on homework and study without distractions, is a great asset. Learning without distractions is fundamental to progress. In our current context, access to necessary resources such as books, internet, and educational materials is vital and reflective of the learning strategies that we promote at 海角大神.

Promoting a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep is crucial for concentration and learning. This is more effective when combined with effective time management skills. Checking in with your child鈥檚 teachers is also a positive step which promotes working partnerships. Regularly checking in with your child about their school day, homework, and any challenges they might be facing, together with open communication with your child鈥檚 teachers to stay informed about their progress and any areas needing attention are keys to enabling your involvement in a positive way.

Keeping track of your child鈥檚 academic performance and social well-being are also very important. This will be aided by the open communication that I mentioned earlier. Teach your child resilience by helping them cope with setbacks and encouraging them to keep trying. Remember that the YFC offers counselling support if needed.

By effectively supporting your child, staying engaged and supportive throughout the term, and addressing challenges proactively, you can be a part of the success our students will achieve during the term and semester. As the school reports are issued, I strongly recommend that you discuss last term and that you assist your child in developing SMART Goals for the term. These strategies will lead to great success and achievement.

Best of luck during the subject selection process, the progression of your child and their achievements as learners and members of the College community.

Nap Rodezno

Deputy Principal

Spiritually Speaking - The busyness of life.

This Sunday鈥檚 reading sees the disciples rejoin Jesus after a period of time preaching and teaching. They have lots to tell him about everything they have been doing. It had been so busy that Jesus suggested they go and find a deserted place so that they can rest. I am sure this logic is something we can all relate to. Needing time away from crowds, a quiet place to reflect, unwind and de-stress. From the young mother with toddlers who dreams of being able to go to the toilet in peace to the student with three major assessments due - we all need to take a break.

The Christian practice of 鈥渞etreat鈥� is one that we do with many year levels at 海角大神. At the end of last term both our Yr 7 and our Yr 12鈥檚 experienced forms of retreat. It is a time for our students to leave their regular daily activities and focus on time for themselves, for reflection, and to reconnect with God. Students can challenge themselves, try new things and express gratitude for others.

How do you get to retreat?

By the end of the reading we discover that the crowds find Jesus and instead of shooing them away he shows compassion. He sits down and begins to teach, for he realises that these people are retreating to him; to find solace and meaning in their daily lives. To stop and quietly sit in the presence of God, can be the moment of retreat that rejuvenates the soul.

Tania Grace

Assistant Principal Mission

Year 7 and 10 immunisations

The Secondary School Immunisation Program offers free National Immunisation Program schedule vaccines to all eligible Year 7 and Year 10 students. The Maroondah Council Immunisation Team will deliver immunisations to consented students onsite at 海角大神 College.

Year 7 students鈥�鈥�鈥� - Tuesday 30th July 2024

• Diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (whooping cough)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Year 10 students - Tuesday 27th August 2024

• Meningococcal ACWY

Consent form link for Year 7 and 10 students

Please click on the links below for the relevant year level of your child. This will give you information regarding immunisations and a link to the CIRV online consent portal. Please read through the information and complete all sections. Consent forms should be completed regardless of whether you grant or decline consent.

Should you have any questions regarding the immunisations please follow contact information provided by the Maroondah Council on the information and consent form link.

Health centre team

Monday saw us at the college with a guest speaker from Success Integrated followed by a 3 hour practice English exam. Darren, from Success Integrated delivered an engaging and fun seminar, filled with valuable information regarding study techniques and goal setting. From this, we were provided with important skills, vital to the success of many of our year 12 VCE journeys. DJ Tim, also didn't fail to make the session entertaining and enjoyable with his turntables and beats. The skills we gained this day will without a doubt become very helpful as the year progresses.

After the seminar, we made our way to classrooms to complete a practice English exam. This was a great experience to get some insight into what our exams will look like in later months, hopefully easing any stress surrounding the unknown of exams. This was a great chance to gauge what needs to be worked on and improved as we get a feel of how the VCAA marks work as our exams were externally marked.

On Tuesday, we visited a range of universities based on our personal preferences as a part of our Big Day Out. This included places like Deakin, Swinburne, Monash, La Trobe and much more. The 3 of us had the chance to spend the day at Deakin Uni in Burwood. It was an awesome experience with tours around campus, providing insight into what uni life is like. Current uni students were leading the day and were very helpful with any questions we had about particular courses or degrees and not forgetting to mention their popular food and coffee spots on campus.

Going into Tuesday, I was unsure on what pathway I wanted to take, however, coming away from Deakin, I was given some clarity on some options I previously wasn't aware of. Thank you to the school for providing this opportunity for us. It will greatly benefit us next month when completing uni applications and applying.

On Wednesday, we headed off to Phillip Island for a two-night retreat. After a term of hard work and study, this break was a much-needed opportunity to connect with friends, peers and teachers. Throughout our time there, we participated in various mentor activities that encouraged us to collaborate in new ways and allowed us to be more vulnerable than we typically are with our mentor groups at school.

We spent Thursday participating in multiple different activities the camp ground provided. Some conquered the giant swing and the high ropes. Others went on a wholesome beach walk or played kick to kick with mates. Some of the best fun I鈥檝e ever had was the 鈥楾eam Rescue鈥� where a group of us had to rescue a dummy and drag him from one side of a course to the other without touching the ground or dropping our dummy. But the most memorable part of the retreat was when we sat down on Thursday night to write letters to our friends, peers and to our teachers. We expressed our appreciation and shared how much each person has meant to us during our high school years. Reading these letters was deeply emotional, as it reminded us of the strong connections we've built and the impact we've had on one another. As well as letters to each other, we were surprised with letters from our parents and our year 10 selves. These letters again were very emotional, not only showing us how far we鈥檝e come, but how proud our parents really are of everything we鈥檝e achieved. Our final camp at 海角大神 was truly unforgettable. The experiences, friendships, and heartfelt letters we took home are something we will always cherish.

It was a jam packed week, full of both fun and reflection. A week we鈥檒l never forget looking back on our high school experiences. Thank you to all those involved in the organisation of the week.

Georgia Scheer, Indiana Curtis and Lily Ebbage.

Kak was probably one of the best experiences for me. I really enjoyed the company of everyone and was able to make new friendships and form stronger bonds with both teachers and students. My favourite part had to be when we visited Mindil Beach market and also the waterfall. I really didn't like the 9pm bedtimes and I think I was the teacher's biggest pain at bed time. I also never actually realised how big Uluru was and can go on and on about how photos and videos just don't do it justice. Overall the trip was a once in a lifetime experience and I'm so grateful I had the opportunity to go. Thank you to all the teachers and students for planning and making the trip 10x better, missing it already. 

Izzy Cooper

The South trip started off with a very early start with everyone having to be at school by 3 am, with the excitement levels high as we discussed what adventures the next 13 days would bring us. We were not disappointed as we made our way to the Florence Falls Waterhole in Litchfield National Park before finishing off day two at the markets and watching the sunset at Mindil Beach. At the midpoint of our trip, a handful of brave students took on the Mataranka Half Marathon, with recovery in the hot springs before a medal ceremony for the runners, complete with the singing of the national anthem and a podium for the place winners. The first half of our trip contained many cruises and crocodiles, whilst the second half brought beautiful hikes with some stunning views. The trip brought about new friendships as we had the chance to talk to people we wouldn鈥檛 normally chat with and branch out to form new connections with others in the year level. Overall, the trip was an amazing experience and I wouldn鈥檛 change a second of it! It鈥檚 very full on, with activities and tasks to do each day that help you grow and connect with others, but at the end of the day, there was always a lovely meal prepared by the amazing cooks to eat.

Gabriella Linton

Kak was a great experience. I had so much fun building more friendships and strengthening others. It's something that I enjoyed and I recommend everyone doing it. My favourite parts were the bus rides all together.

Drew Baker

The Kakadu trip for me was definitely the highlight of my year so far, if not the highlight of my schooling career. From seeing Uluru right up close, to taking boat trips at Katherine Gorge, seeing massive crocodiles jumping out at my face and swimming under the beautiful waterfalls at Litchfield National Park. Kak will be something I will forever remember with many great memories coming out of the trip. The trip made me realise how excited I am to travel in the future with my mates, as well as travelling around Australia which I plan to do after school. On our rest day at Mataranka it was anything but, I have accomplished running a half marathon with my peers and teachers which is something I will never forget. Kakadu was one of the best experiences in my life so far, a great time for having a laugh and seeing our beautiful nation. I highly recommend it for future students.

Joseph Campbell

Kakadu was by far one of the most special experiences in my life. The trip was filled with lots of different fun activities, bonding experiences, beautiful views, cultural education and amazing memories made. What I loved about Kak was the opportunity we got to discover Australia and see some of its beautiful national parks while also learning about its important historical significance. Places such as Ulu峁焨, Watarrka and Kata Tjuta were major highlights too, because of how remarkable and breathtaking they were. The trip definitely inspired me to connect with nature more often and put things in life into perspective (also to travel!). The memories we all made together are unforgettable, from karaoke singing to mascot snatching and bus chants, it was all so much fun and many laughs. Although it was a long, hot, and sometimes slightly tiring, it was all worth it for the special experience. I left feeling very grateful for the opportunity. One of the best parts of the trip was the mini family we made for 13 days. Connecting with new people, friends and teachers made me feel so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing people. A huge thanks to everyone who helped put the trip together for us!

Evie Evans.

Visiting the Northern Territory for Kakadu was an unforgettable adventure. We explored ancient rock formations with Aboriginal artwork, learning about the rich cultural history of the space was such a beautiful experience. Although some of the walks were challenging and it was way too cold it was easy to remain positive in such a supportive environment. I wouldn't change anything. I am incredibly grateful for the chance to create new connections with classmates I might never have interacted with if not for Kak. The memories we made together during our time in the Northern Territory not only strengthened our bonds but also made getting to know each other ten times more enjoyable and effortless.

Hannah Prete

During activities week a group of 90 Year 11s ventured into the Melbourne CBD for our annual City Camp. The goal of the trip was to build student connection through experiencing a wide range of activities not commonly undertaken by Year 11s when they head into the city. 

From Wicked the musical to axe throwing at Maniax, escape rooms to IMAX, students and staff enjoyed a jam-packed schedule filled with opportunities for continued social connection and growth. 

Overall the trip was another big success and feedback was very positive.

Year 7 Connect Week 

STEM - Building Bridges with Knex

With the Documentary 2040 discussed prior, in a double lesson Year 7 students within their team were given the challenge to work together to build the strongest bridge using Knex pieces. The nature of the task was an introduction to the world of Systems and Engineering and assisted the students to work in collaboration with one another to test the strength of their design and construction. The ultimate goal was to ensure that after 60 mins of building, the bridge would be tested with wooden block weights to see which style of engineering would be the most effective.

Humanities Melbourne Museum

Who doesn鈥檛 love a day at the Museum with so much to marvel at. The day was broken up into six unique sections of exploration covering a wide variety of history, art, nature and culture:

• First People鈥檚 Gallery - an engaging exploration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, showcasing their rich history, art, and traditions. Students will learn about the profound connection between the First Nations and the land, as well as their enduring contributions to Australian society.
• Melbourne Story - The exhibit transported students through the city's fascinating history, from its Indigenous origins to its modern-day vibrancy. This exhibit showcases significant events, people, and developments that have shaped Melbourne into the bustling city it is today.
• IMAX Theatre Show - 鈥淲ild Australia鈥檚 Wild Top End鈥� - took students on a thrilling 3D cinematic journey through the untamed landscapes of Northern Australia, showcasing its unique wildlife and ecosystems. This captivating film highlights the region's biodiversity and the importance of preserving these natural wonders.
• Forest Walk - immersed students in a living forest ecosystem, complete with towering trees, diverse wildlife, and a flowing creek. This exhibit highlights the intricate relationships between plants, animals, and their habitats, illustrating the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship.
• Milarri Gardens - a serene outdoor space where students discovered the traditional plants used by Aboriginal people for food, medicine, and tools. It provides a visual learning experience about the natural environment and the cultural knowledge passed down through generations.
• Mini Mega Model Museum - a collection of intricately detailed miniature models, showcasing various scenes and objects from history and popular culture. Students will be captivated by the craftsmanship and creativity behind these tiny yet elaborate displays.

Language Day - Exploring French and Chinese Culture

Language Day provided the opportunity for students to experience French and Chinese cultures. It was a free dress day where students wore clothing which matched the colour of their chosen countries flag. Students participated in activities ranging from making Chinese fans to French miming and acting. The day concluded with a costume parade and as you can see from the photos, there were some amazing outfits. A great day was had by all.

STEAM - Junk Guitars

The year 7 junk guitars activity involved building a guitar using recycled, reused materials that met the following constraints: 

• The guitar must be constructed out of mostly recycled and re-purposed materials
• The guitar must be tunable (i.e. have strings that can be tightened and loosened)
• The guitar must have frets marked
• The guitar must contain a resonating cavity
• The guitar must be robust enough to be played

The guitars were created and then were presented to the class. Students performed using their guitars and got to play some real ukuleles.

RE - Retreat/Pilgrimage

Year 7 students spent a day out at the Edmund Rice Centre (Dominic and Rice) and Pallotti College (Mackillip) on a retreat. The theme of this retreat was 鈥楥atch the Wave鈥� This is an analogy for our faith journey. We are all on our own journey and at different stages. Some might still be all the way back at home in bed. Some might be standing way back in the car park watching the people surf. Some might be sitting in the sand, some dipping your toes in the water. Some might be waist deep, paddling out. And some might be catching the wave. Students played icebreaker games, listened to live music, and participated in guided meditation.

 During 2024 the Unit 1 and 2 Dance class has had a great experience working with professional choreographer and dancer Ruby Winters. We have developed our technique in conditioning classes as well as choreographic skills learning group dance works from her. This semester we explored contemporary floorwork and travelling combinations. We are currently also working on a Learnt Work (whole class dance work) that is titled 'The Stages of Grief' and will be performed at our VCE Dance Performance Evening on Monday the 16th of September at 7.00pm in the Mahon Theatre.

Ciara Healey

Year 11 VCE Dance Student

On Wednesday the year 12 Biology class travelled to the Melbourne University school of biosciences to complete some laboratory work essential to Unit 4 that we are unable to do in a school setting.

The first activity demonstrated how evolution can occur in drosophila melanogaster (Fruit Fly). Students counted the anaesthetised the flies then counted the number with different traits present in different generations.

The second activity used the ELISA technique to measure the number of antibodies for influenza in samples from 6 different patients. The students were able to compare the immunity to influenza in individuals who had had influenza, were vaccinated against influenza recently and 12 months ago, had never had influenza, and breastfed babies whose mothers had been vaccinated or unvaccinated.

Sandy Johnstone

VCE Biology teacher

The VCE biology excursion to Melbourne University was a great experience to get to work in a proper lab environment. Getting to conduct experiments using fruit flies to determine the change in phenotypes across generations was a good way to further develop our understanding of the topic of genetics. Furthermore, the experiment where we investigated flu immunity and how to tell if antibodies are present in a person was really intriguing as this was a new practical to us. It was also a great way to improve our skills using things like microscopes and micropipettes. Overall it was a good insight into what life may be like beyond high school and going to uni.

Lachlan Trigt

VCE Biology Student

GREAT NEWS- TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW!

Here is the Link to book your seat today! Get in early as tickets always sell fast...

Dates of the Performances

Wednesday 7, Thursday 8, Friday 9, Saturday 10 August, 2024.
 
Time - 7.30 pm - 10 pm

Venue - Mahon Theatre - 海角大神 College

Disney Channel's smash hit movie musical comes to life on your stage!

We are excited to share some 'behind the scenes' photos of the cast of High School Musical, who have been putting all their energy into rehearsals for this exciting production!

The Disney production of High School Musical is guaranteed fun for the whole family.

We can't wait to see all their hard work come to life on the Stage in August!

'Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities. It's the first day after winter break at East High. The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations and look forward to the new year. Basketball team captain and resident jock, Troy, discovers that the brainy Gabriella, a girl he met singing karaoke on his ski trip, has just enrolled at East High. They cause an upheaval when they decide to audition for the high school musical that is being led by Ms. Darbus. Although many students resent the threat posed to the 'status quo,' Troy and Gabriella's alliance might just open the door for others to shine as well.'

GREAT NEWS- TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW!

Here is the Link to book your seat today! Get in early as tickets always sell fast...

Dates of the Performances

Wednesday 7, Thursday 8, Friday 9, Saturday 10 August, 2024.
 
Time - 7.30 pm - 10 pm

Venue - Mahon Theatre - 海角大神 College

海角大神 College is thrilled to share some exciting news, 2023 student Ellen Menzies was awarded the Premier's Award for Hospitality (VCE VET) and received the state's top mark for her studies.

Ellen, from Luther College studied VET Hospitality with us at 海角大神 College, showing that all the hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence have truly paid off. We couldn't be more proud.

Let's take this moment to revel in Ellen's outstanding achievement and continue encouraging our students towards excellence.