Welcome back to our Senior School students, particularly to any new students and families who have joined the college community in 2026.
Staff returned on 27 January and started their day by hearing from Scott Darlow. Scott is an Aboriginal singer songwriter who shared his music, culture and his heart for Reconciliation. His key word “FLUTE” (Forgiveness, Love, Understanding, Tolerance and Empathy) resonated with our staff, particularly as our School Vision calls for us to celebrate our diverse learning community.
Senior School Special Programs
Last week, Year 11s participated in the ‘Flying Start’ program that focussed on setting themselves up for success in 2026. It included guest speakers, sessions run by Elevate Education and school run sessions on careers and wellbeing. Students also spent a day at Deakin University to give them a taste of university life, and to hear about the different pathways current Deakin students took to end up studying their chosen degree.
Year 12 students attended The Summit camp, with the most talked about activity being ‘The Monster Course’. It was fantastic to see all students embrace the challenges this camp offered. A great time was had by all, and it was an excellent opportunity for the year level to bound prior to the start of their final year of formal schooling.
Thanks to all staff who supported the running of the Year 11 program on campus and at Deakin, as well as the staff who attended the Year 12 camp. A special thanks to Head of Senior School Ms Sarah Chase, Senior School Leader Mr James Johnston, Year 12 Coordinators Mr Chris Bamford and Mr Adam Wheeler, and Year 11 Coordinators Ms Sunita Sewani and Ms Lisa Worthy for all the work in setting up these valuable programs.
Compass
Announcements about important year level events, excursions, sport days and other information are all communicated via Compass. It is also used by teachers to communicate student learning progress in assessment tasks, any concerns around learning and to recognise students who demonstrate our College Values. Please ensure you have downloaded the app and have announcements turned on to avoid missing any important communications.
Student Diaries
All students should have now received their 2026 MWSC student diary. Students are encouraged to record homework, due dates for assessment tasks, as well as events they are participating in to assist with their organisation. Their diary is also required for them to leave class to use the bathroom, see the nurse or access the Resource Centre. The diary also includes study tips, wellbeing advice and goal setting strategies.
Safety and Parking
The college is a busy place, particularly at drop off and pick up times. Students are reminded that they should be using the dedicated crossings where possible and taking care when crossing side streets. The carparks on both campuses are for staff only and parents are not to use these as a drop off or pick up point.
Student accident insurance, ambulance cover arrangements and private property brought to school
Parents/carers are reminded that the Department of Education does not provide personal accident or ambulance cover for students. Parents and carers of students, who do not have private health insurance or ambulance cover, are responsible for paying the cost of medical treatment for their injured child.
Private property brought to the college by students, staff or visitors is not insured and the Department of Education is not responsible for any loss or damage. This can include mobile phones, calculators, sporting equipment and cars parked on school premises.
It is recommended that parents/carers consider insurance policies that can be purchased from commercial insurers.
E-Scooter Safety – What Students and Parents Need to Know
E-scooters are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport for students and community members alike. With their growing use, it’s important that both parents and students understand the safety requirements and legal responsibilities that come with riding an e-scooter in Victoria.
Below is a summary of the key rules, as outlined by Transport Victoria:
What You Must Do When Riding an E-Scooter
E-scooter riders are required to:
- Be 16 years of age or older
- Wear a helmet at all times
- Ride at a maximum speed of 20 km/h
- Ride single file – not in tandem or side by side
- Ride only on:
- Shared-use paths (not footpaths)
- Bicycle paths
- Roads with a speed limit of 60 km/h or less
- Not carry any passengers
- Use front and rear lights (steady or flashing) when riding at night or in low-light conditions
- Park responsibly, ensuring the scooter does not block pedestrian paths or create safety hazards
Why It Matters
These rules are in place to help keep riders and others safe. Failure to follow them can result in fines and puts both the rider and others at risk. As e-scooter use grows, it’s essential we all do our part to promote safe and respectful riding in our community.
For more information and updates, please visit:
Transport Victoria – E-Scooter Road Rules
Ms Lauren Kelly
Campus Principal – Senior School