MWSC College News – Issue 11

We have had a very busy and rewarding beginning to term 3 at both campuses. As always, it has been amazing to witness our students embrace the many and varied opportunities provided to them beyond the classroom, all while maintaining a very high standard of class work.

Premier’s VCE Awards

This week I had the wonderful privilege of attending the annual Premier’s VCE Awards alongside Campus Principal – Senior School Ms Lauren Kelly, and Head of Senior School Ms Sarah Chase. We were thrilled to be able to celebrate the achievements of an astounding eight MWSC students who were recognised for their exceptional accomplishments in the 2025 academic year.

• Jadon T for Biology, Chemistry and German
• Ruixin Z for Biology
• Kimi T for Japanese Second Language
• Brintha B for Legal Studies
• Radin A for Foundation Mathematics
• Carola M for Italian (through VSL)
• Mia W for Indonesian (through VSL)

We were also fortunate to be entertained by Ananya H who performed at the event, as well as being recognised for Music Performance (VCE VET).

State Cross Country

During week one of term, we had 12 students representing the school at the State Cross Country Championships. The highlight of our day came from our team of senior girls, Aisha, Frances, Aleisha and Hannah, competing in the 17-20 age group taking out first place in the team event. Below are our competitors and the times they ran.

Imogen W – 46^th 13:32
Daniel K – 71^st 12:08
Ismail N – 82^nd 13:12
Daisy W – 29^th 13:18
Seth J – 49^th 11:14
Liam B – 39^th 11:05
Aisha H – 11^th 12:31
Frances S – 28^th 13:38
Aleisha C – 32^nd 13:49
Hannah R – 25^th 13:29
Hayden V – 24^th 17:25 (5K)
Julian D – 26^th 17:36 (5K)

Well done to all of these students on their achievements, and thanks to Mr Danny Gwynne and Mr Jay Newport for their hard work behind the scenes.

Languages Day

Wednesday 22 July marked our annual Languages Day, a day to celebrate not just our two school languages of German and Japanese, but the proud linguistic diversity we have at Mount Waverley Secondary College. As always, it was celebrated through a Junior Campus assembly, various cultural activities, the traditional soccer game (Japan vs Germany), and of course a delicious Obento box and Bretzel. Well done to the Languages faculty for putting the day together!

Australian Culinary Federation Secondary Schools Competition

On the last day of Term 2, our Senior Campus proudly hosted the Australian Culinary Federation Secondary Schools Culinary Competition, welcoming talented student chefs from across Victoria. The competition provides students studying Hospitality, Food Technology and Commercial Cookery with the opportunity to showcase their skills, gain valuable industry experience and explore future career pathways in hospitality.

As the Victorian host venue, we were delighted to support an event that celebrates vocational learning and showcases the many pathways available within the hospitality and commercial cookery industries. Congratulations to all students who participated and represented their schools with enthusiasm and professionalism. We also thank the Australian Culinary Federation, participating schools, judges and staff who helped make the day a great success.

Information Evenings in Term 3

As always, term 3 is when we begin our planning for each subsequent year. For students, the most important thing is meaningfully engaging with the various subject and course selection information that comes out through various programs and assemblies at school. For parents/carers, one of the great things you can do is attend the relevant information sessions coming up this term. This helps your young person to be empowered to make the best decisions for their own future, and ensures you understand the systems and expectations they are entering into, whether that be a change of campus, the entry to VCE or VCE/VM, or into tertiary life.

Mr Matt Sheehan
Acting College Principal

Welcome back to Term 3

Welcome back to all students and families for Term 3. I am working on the Junior Campus as Campus Principal this term, while Mr Matt Sheehan is Acting College Principal.

Term 3 always proves to be a busy one, with sport, excursions and the school production just some of the highlights ahead. Year 8 students will also start looking towards next year, with the subject selection process getting underway early in the term. We encourage families to support their child in thinking carefully about the options available to them.

As always, it promises to be a busy and rewarding term, both inside and outside the classroom, and we look forward to seeing our students make the most of everything on offer.

Term 3 PE Program

The year 8 students are currently enjoying their self-defence unit in conjunction with Melbourne Taekwondo Club. Likewise, the year 7s have been heading to aquatic centres in Monash for their swimming lessons. Later in the term our year 8s will attend Flip Out, while the year 7s will be completing a gymnastics unit. These programs are a great addition to the PE curriculum, teaching our students valuable life skills.

Languages Day

On Wednesday 22 July the Junior Campus held our annual Languages Day, where we celebrate the cultures of Japan and Germany. We held our traditional assembly in the morning, where we were treated to some German poetry recitals, and a great Japanese dance by our Year 7s. The Year 8s then took part in either a German Oompah band, or a Japanese comedy performance. Finally, students and staff enjoyed some delicious Obento boxes and German Bretzels for lunch, while watching the traditional Japan vs German soccer game. It was great to see our students celebrating a love of languages. Well done to the Languages Faculty for their organisation.

Year 9 2027 Subject Selection

Next week our Year 8s will participate in the Year 9 2027 Subject Information Evening. This is an exciting time for students as they start to think about their transition to the Senior Campus, and all the new academic opportunities on offer. I would encourage all families to discuss the options and check the website for more information before submitting selections in the coming weeks. We are organising a range of activities at school to support student transitions over the coming months.

Signing in and out of school

This is a reminder to all families that, where possible, all appointments etc. should be arranged outside of school hours. When this is not possible, it is important that you keep us informed via Compass. When collecting your child early, please inform us beforehand so that we can make for a smoother exit from school. At Year 7 and 8, it is compulsory that an approved adult collects the student from the office. We will not allow any student to make their own way off campus before the end of the school day.

House Athletics Carnival

Nearly 1000 students attended House Athletics at the Knox Athletics track on Friday 24 July. Running, jumping and throwing events took place throughout the day, with students participating with great energy and enthusiasm.

Well done to Mr Danny Gwynne and Mr Jay Newport, our Sports Leaders, for their excellent work organising this whole-school event. Thank you to all the staff who helped make the day such a success for our students. We now look forward to District Athletics later in the term.

AusAlert and the National Test

We’ve been advised that a national test of AusAlert will happen across Australia on Monday 27 July at 2 pm.

AusAlert is a new, national emergency warning system. It sends warning messages to compatible mobile devices during emergencies, to keep people informed so they can act quickly. The Australian Government plans to launch AusAlert in October 2026.

On Monday 27 July at 2 pm, all compatible mobile devices will receive a Critical Alert. Compatible mobile devices include phones, tablets, smart watches, safety watches and some vehicle devices. These will vibrate and make a loud, siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds. This will happen even if they are on silent or do not disturb. The message will clearly state that it is a test. No action is required from the test.

To minimise disruption, student phones and smart devices should always be switched off and stored securely in lockers or bags during the school day. Students who use their mobile phone as part of a documented exception can continue to do so. If appropriate, they can turn their phone off during the test.

You may also wish to let your child know that if they see or hear the alert, school staff will support them. You can learn more at AusAlert: children and teens. Information is also available in other languages.

Safe Phones

AusAlert may increase risk for people experiencing violence, especially if they live with someone who uses violence. Alerts may expose safety devices.

If you or someone you know has a hidden device, the best way to stay safe during the test is to:

• turn off your mobile device or put it in aeroplane mode
• keep your device off or in aeroplane mode for 24 hours.

Silent mode and do not disturb will not stop the alert.
For more information, please refer to the Staying safe with AusAlert page.

Mr Ian MacLeod
Acting Campus Principal – Junior School

Welcome back to Term 3

We trust that you have had a wonderful break and enjoyed some much-deserved time to rest, relax and catch up with family and friends.

We look forward to welcoming you back for an exciting Term 3.  There are many events that will be taking place this term in the Middle School, so be prepared as it is going to be a busy term.  Some that have already taken place are:

Year 9 Monash Tech School Visits

Our Year 9’s made their way to Monash Tech School to be immersed in Superimagery!  Students learnt how to use imaging technologies to promote collaborative, efficient and safe workspaces.  Students engaged in activities such as:

• using drones to aerial map disaster zones
• understand the benefits of virtual microscopy and examine differences between virtual and compound microscopes
• use 3D scanning, hyperspectral imaging and thermal imaging to compare and contrast real items from forgery.

A great day out for our students to learn about the world of technology and employment!

Year 10 ‘Power of Sleep’ Incursion

Our Year 10 cohort attended the Power of Sleep incursion last week and the rest will be taking part in it this week.  The highly practical and interactive incursion supports students in learning how to achieve the quality sleep they need for physical and mental health.  Quality sleep assists us to improve concentration and sustained focus.  Quality sleep has been linked to high levels of academic performance and protection in mental health.

Year 9 SYN Radio Orientation

Year 9 Journalism students attended the SYN Radio orientation day.  Students were introduced to the basics of broadcasting and were able to produce a trail radio broadcast!  Students enjoyed this learning opportunity and we look forward to some famous radio jockeys being developed in the future!

Year 10 Work Experience

It’s been wonderful to hear such positive feedback from staff who have visited students in their workplaces, highlighting how well they’ve represented themselves and the school. This experience plays a key role in helping students explore future career pathways and consider their post-school options.  A tremendous amount of work goes into preparing and supporting all our Year 10 students for their work experience placements. Sincere thanks to Mr Phil Newnham and Ms Victoria Tortopidis for their efforts in making this valuable program possible.

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

AusAlert and the National Test

We’ve been advised that a national test of AusAlert will happen across Australia on Monday 27 July at 2 pm.

AusAlert is a new, national emergency warning system. It sends warning messages to compatible mobile devices during emergencies, to keep people informed so they can act quickly. The Australian Government plans to launch AusAlert in October 2026.

On Monday 27 July at 2 pm, all compatible mobile devices will receive a Critical Alert. Compatible mobile devices include phones, tablets, smart watches, safety watches and some vehicle devices. These will vibrate and make a loud, siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds. This will happen even if they are on silent or do not disturb. The message will clearly state that it is a test. No action is required from the test.

To minimise disruption, student phones and smart devices should always be switched off and stored securely in lockers or bags during the school day. Students who use their mobile phone as part of a documented exception can continue to do so. If appropriate, they can turn their phone off during the test.

You may also wish to let your child know that if they see or hear the alert, school staff will support them. You can learn more at AusAlert: children and teens. Information is also available in other languages.

Safe phones

AusAlert may increase risk for people experiencing violence, especially if they live with someone who uses violence. Alerts may expose safety devices.

If you or someone you know has a hidden device, the best way to stay safe during the test is to:

• turn off your mobile device or put it in aeroplane mode
• keep your device off or in aeroplane mode for 24 hours.

Silent mode and do not disturb will not stop the alert.
For more information, please refer to the Staying safe with AusAlert page.

Important Dates

Tuesday 28 July – Year 10 Future Options Day and Year 10 into 11 Information evening
Thursday 30 July – Year 9 Subject Expo day and Year 9 into 10 Information evening
Friday 31 July – Year 10 into 11 Course Selection Interviews
Wednesday 12 – Saturday 15 August – College Production
Friday 21 August – House Athletics
Friday 28 August – Year 10 Wellbeing Day and Gala evening
Thursday 10 September – Student Free Day for Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences
Wednesday 16 September – Run for Rosey Day and MWSC Community Showcase evening
Friday 18 September – Year 9 Wellbeing Day

As always, if you have any questions, issues, or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the Middle School office.

We look forward to a great Semester together.

Ms Asha Vazirani
Acting Campus Principal – Middle School 

Welcome back!

As Term 3 begins we are reminding our Year 12s that whilst they are fast approaching the end of their secondary schooling journey, there is still a lot to get through before we get there. Last term we held an assembly with our Year 12s to encourage them to make “every day count” instead of counting the days. Students were reminded that the subschool and their teachers are here to support them and we would like to encourage all students to reach out if they need help.

2027 Course Selection

The course selection process for 2027 has begun and will continue next week. An information night for VCE VM and VET took place on Tuesday 21 July. Course information sessions were held for parents and students in Years 11 and 12 in 2026 on Thursday 23 July. Slides and key information will be shared to all parents and students following each evening. Most students in Year 11 will continue on with the subjects they are studying this year, any students wishing to change must discuss this with someone from the Senior Subschool.

Next week on Friday, 31 July 2027 Year 11s will have subject selection interviews. They will discuss their chosen subjects with a staff member and receive support with making their subject selections. We encourage any student unsure about subject choice, career options, questions about VCE or life after school to make an appointment to chat with one of our Career Practitioners, either Ms Victoria Tortopidis or Mr Phil Newnham.

Thank you to Ms Sarah Chase (Head of Senior School), Ms Lisa Worthy (Acting Senior School Leader), Mr Wayne Griffin (Head of Senior Pathways) and Mr Phil Newnham (Careers Education Manager) for presenting at the information nights and all their work organising the course selection interviews.

VCE Student/Parent/Teacher Conferences

On Thursday 24 July VCE parents and students were given the opportunity to meet with teachers. This opportunity is provided early in term 3 to our VCE parents to allow for the discussion of students’ Semester One reports, and areas for improvement moving into Semester Two with enough time to ensure that change is possible. We hope the interviews also provided an opportunity for parents, students and teachers of Year 11 students to discuss subjects for 2027.

VCE Premier’s Awards

The annual Premier’s VCE Awards recognises students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). On Tuesday 21 July, Mr Matt Sheehan (Acting College Principal), Ms Sarah Chase (Head of Senior School) and myself had the pleasure of attending this year’s ceremony to celebrate the achievements of eight Mount Waverley Secondary College students who received Study Awards. This is the most amount of students we have had receive Study Awards in recent years and we couldn’t be more proud of these students. The Study Award recognises students who perform at a high level across all Graded Assessment tasks, including School Assessed Coursework (SACs), School Assessed Tasks (SATs) and the end of year exams.

Congratulations to the following students:

• Jadon T (Chemistry, German, Biology) 
• Elaine Z (Biology)
• Kimi T (Japanese Second Language) 
• Brintha B (Legal Studies)
• Ananya H (Music Performance VCE VET) 
• Radin A (Foundation Mathematics)
• Carola M(Italian)
• Mia W (Indonesian Second Language)

Absences

Attendance in VCE is important to ensure students experience success in their chosen studies. The school has attendance policies in place to support our students to meet the required number of hours of class time set out by the VCAA. The Year Level Coordinators monitor attendance and will communicate with parents should concerns around attendance arise. VCE is a team effort and we thank our parents/carers for the ongoing support you provide our students. Please also ensure the correct evidence is submitted within 5 days if a student is absent on the day of an assessment task or SAC/SAT.

AusAlert and the National Test

We’ve been advised that a national test of AusAlert will happen across Australia on Monday 27 July at 2 pm.

AusAlert is a new, national emergency warning system. It sends warning messages to compatible mobile devices during emergencies, to keep people informed so they can act quickly. The Australian Government plans to launch AusAlert in October 2026.

On Monday 27 July at 2 pm, all compatible mobile devices will receive a Critical Alert. Compatible mobile devices include phones, tablets, smart watches, safety watches and some vehicle devices. These will vibrate and make a loud, siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds. This will happen even if they are on silent or do not disturb. The message will clearly state that it is a test. No action is required from the test.

To minimise disruption, student phones and smart devices should always be switched off and stored securely in lockers or bags during the school day. Students who use their mobile phone as part of a documented exception can continue to do so. If appropriate, they can turn their phone off during the test.

You may also wish to let your child know that if they see or hear the alert, school staff will support them. You can learn more at AusAlert: children and teens. Information is also available in other languages.

Safe Phones

AusAlert may increase risk for people experiencing violence, especially if they live with someone who uses violence. Alerts may expose safety devices.

If you or someone you know has a hidden device, the best way to stay safe during the test is to:

• turn off your mobile device or put it in aeroplane mode
• keep your device off or in aeroplane mode for 24 hours.

Silent mode and do not disturb will not stop the alert.
For more information, please refer to the Staying safe with AusAlert page.

Ms Lauren Kelly
Campus Principal – Senior School

Welcome back to Term 3!  We hope that your students were able to enjoy some well-deserved time to rest, relax and catch up with family and friends.

We are looking forward to welcoming you back for an exciting Term 3. There are many events that will be taking place this term in the Middle School, so please see below for some more information and dates to keep in mind:

• Friday 24 July – House Athletics
• Tuesday 28 July – Year 10 Future Options Day and Year 10 into 11 Information evening
• Thursday 30 July – Year 9 Subject Expo day and Year 9 into 10 Information evening
• Friday 31 July – Year 10 into 11 Course Selection Interviews
• Wednesday 12 August – Saturday 15 August – College Production
• Friday 28 August – Year 10 Wellbeing Day and Gala evening
• Thursday 10 September – Student Free Day for Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences
• Wednesday 16 September – Run for Rossy Day and MWSC Community Showcase evening
• Friday 18 September – Year 9 Wellbeing Day, Last Day of Term 3

Lockers

All students should now have a designated locker, please ensure that you use your lockers to store your bags and personal belongings in a safe space.  Bags will no longer be permitted in the classrooms.

If you do not have a locker, please see your coordinators as soon as possible at lunchtime so that a locker can be allocated to you. You can bring your own combination lock or alternatively purchase one from the front office. You will have to carry your bag with you until lunchtime.

Uniform

Terms 2 and 3 are Winter Uniform terms. Please ensure you are in the correct winter uniform on Monday 13th July. Combinations of summer and winter uniforms are not permitted. If for any reason you are not in the proper full school uniform, please bring a note from home and come to the Middle School office for a uniform pass. No visible undershirts permitted. Navy scarfs only. Hoodies are banned and will be confiscated.

Mobile Phones/Ear Pods

As per Department policies, mobile phones are not to be visible on school grounds. Once you come into the MWSC gates please ensure you keep your phones in your bag which are then to be placed in your locker, this also applies to your ear pods. The mobile phone policy will be followed through with in the event of visible phones or ear pods on school grounds.

Attendance

Please ensure that absences are recorded on Compass on the day and for extended absences please inform the Middle School Office so that appropriate support can be provided.

Late to School

If you are running late to period 0 or period 1 classes, please ensure you go to the front office or the Middle School office to get signed in before going to your class.

As always, if you have any questions, issues, or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us at the Middle School office.

We look forward to a great term together.

Mr James Johnston
Acting Head of Middle School

Course Counselling

Next week is an important week for students with many information nights being run.

Choosing subjects is an important step in planning future pathways. Whether students already have a clear career goal, or are still exploring their options, selecting the right subjects can help keep a wide range of opportunities open.

The Careers Team is available to assist students with:

• Subject prerequisites for university, TAFE, and apprenticeship pathways.
• Course and career planning.
• ATAR and senior secondary pathway advice.
• VCE, VCE VM and VET pathway information.
• General careers and post-school options.

We encourage students to visit the Careers Team during these events to discuss any questions about subject selection or future pathways. We look forward to helping students make informed decisions and plan for a successful future.

Future Options day

Our Year 10 students will participate next week in a University Expo held in the Warwick Irwin Hall, where institutions will showcase their courses and answer questions about prerequisites, helping students make informed decisions when selecting their VCE subjects. Along with the Expo, students will attend engaging breakout sessions led by industry experts. These guest speakers have been chosen based on Year 10 student preferences, ensuring the sessions are relevant and aligned with their interests.

Year 12 students are invited to attend the University Expo on Tuesday 28 July in the Hall at 1:00pm.

Year 12 Career Interviews

Year 12 students have been emailed a link to make their Careers appointment. They are encouraged to choose a convenient time to make their 30 minute meeting.  Whether they are looking into university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or employment, we are here to support their next steps.

As always, the Careers Team is here to help, reach out if you have questions or need guidance.

Mr Phil Newnham & Ms Victoria Tortopidis
Careers Education

Next School Tour Reunion in August!

Don’t miss out. Come and see how things have changed since you were last at school.  Meet up with old school friends and teachers.

Bookings essential.

Class of 2016 Reunion
Thursday 20 August 2026
Click here to book your ticket

Stay connected!

Register your details to join our alumni community and receive the latest news and events and our newsletter directly in your inbox. Click the link to sign up. Register

The Alumni Facebook page is another online platform I encourage you to ‘like’ as it highlights achievements by our past students.

 Mount Waverley Secondary College LinkedIn Group 

Ms Victoria Tortopidis
Alumni Coordinator

Mount Waverley Secondary College proudly presents Disney’s “High School Musical” on stage.

When Troy Bolton (basketball team captain) and Gabriella Montez (an academically gifted transfer student) join forces, nothing will be the same again for the students of East High.

Challenging the status quo of the existing cliques becomes a challenge for all involved. How will the jocks, brainiacs, thespians, skater dudes and cheerleaders break free? We’re all in this together, aren’t we?

Performances will be held in the MWSC Unicorn Theatre on the following dates and times:

• Wednesday 12 August at 7pm
• Thursday 13 August at 7pm
• Friday 14 August at 7pm
• Saturday 15 August at 1.30pm (Matinee)
• Saturday 15 August at 7pm

Tickets will be on sale from 10am on Tuesday 29 July.  Link will be email to families via Compass.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Mr Matt Weekes
Production Director

The free, digital Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee is coming to the Junior Campus, giving Year 7 and 8 students the chance to build their vocabulary, race the clock, represent their House and compete alongside students from across Australia.

Last year, a record 82,712 students from 1,436 schools took part – and in 2026, more than twice as many students will progress to the finals!

Students compete in the Red Level for Years 7-8. They receive 30 randomly selected words and have up to 25 seconds to type each answer.  The most accurate spellers with the fastest times may progress from the school round to the State and Territory Finals, and then to the National Finals.

Spelling practice supports more than accurate spelling. Exploring how words sound, what they mean and how they are structured can strengthen vocabulary, word recognition, reading comprehension and written expression.

Help your child get Bee-ready:

Families and carers can make practice quick and enjoyable:

• choose one or two unfamiliar words each day;
• say each word aloud and discuss its meaning;
• use new words in sentences;
• take turns as the “Bee caller”; and
• try a friendly 25-second spelling challenge.

Practice sheets, posters and additional resources are available from the Junior Campus Library.

How to participate:

• Keep an eye out for the Compass event where parents and carers will be able to provide consent for the Spelling Bee activity.
• Once consent has been recorded, students can obtain their one-time competition code from the Junior Campus Library and complete the Bee as a teacher-supervised activity in the Library.

Students can earn certificates, prizes and House points, with class, year-level and Junior Campus champions recognised. National champions win a trip to Canberra to meet the Prime Minister and other major prizes.

Final day to compete in the School Round: Friday 21 August.

For competition details, visit the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee website: https://www.spelling-bee.com.au/
Learn new words. Race the clock. Spell for your House. Come join the hive! 

For further information please email me at rc@mwsc.vic.edu.au

Spelling-Bee-flyer

Mrs Tanya Alderton
Teacher Librarian