Principal Report

Term 3 is always a busy term and this year is no different.  The first four weeks of the term has provided new opportunities for all students at Mooroolbark College.

New beginnings, course counselling and 2019 Subject Selections

I hope the Year 7 and 8 students have enjoyed their new round of elective Art and Technology subjects. Year 7 and 8 rotations provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the range of curriculum offerings before they begin choosing electives in Year 9. Year 8 students have also just completed their counselling and elective selections for Year 9 2019. Sometimes the hardest part of this process is limiting selections to the required number with so many options available.

Year 9 and 10 students have also swapped electives at the beginning of this term and begun the course counselling process. I hope our current Year 9 students have considered the option of accelerating in Year 10 by applying for a VCE subject.  Our Year 10 students have a very important choice in the next week to make; VCE or VCAL. Both are great pathways. Please ensure you make the most of the counselling time provided to you.

Year 11 students are choosing their final year subjects. This is often a difficult decision. It is essential that all students check prerequisite for possible University courses for 2019. 

I would like to thank the House and Pathways staff who have worked with our students to make sure they are making informed decisions.

Happy Days

There has been a hive of activity around the College, particularly with our school production of Happy Days. The preparation and dedication the students put into the production was exceptional and the performances were wonderful.  However, it was the smiles from all performers, band members and back stage crew that made my day. We had well over 100 students involved this year.  I would also like to thank the staff who dedicated their time to ensure the students had this wonderful opportunity. Peter Marz as usual did an amazing job as Director and Naomi Van Brenan an exceptional Producer. Jordan Van Keulan and Janet Whitby had the band performing at the highest level. Congratulations to Sarah Rosendale who choreographed the production and my gratitude to the many staff who sold tickets, prepared costumes and sets, applied make up and so much more. Again, it is pleasing to see so many of our past students return and provide assistance as well, making it a community effort.

Debutante Balls

Many Year 11 students are spending their Tuesday afternoons practicing for the 2019 Debutante Ball. If you would like to sneak a preview, go to the Mooroolbark College Official Facebook page where you can view a video of the students practicing their dance moves. They are definitely well on their way to perfecting their dances ready for the Ball on Saturday 18th August. 

Wujiang Senior Middle School Visit

It has been wonderful to have our visitors from Wujiang Senior Middle School join us this week.  When they arrived on Saturday afternoon, there were many nervous Chinese students however they soon settled in to the Australian Culture.  Thank you to the families that the students have had a positive impression of Australia and Australians and have certainly supported the two schools in further enhancing the developing relationship between our schools.  

We look forward to more exciting activities and events throughout Term 3.

Ann Stratford
Principal

College Captain

Caitlyn Kavanagh- Middle Green House Captain 

What do you hope to achieve this year in your role:
This year I hope to inspire people, whether it’s to compete in carnivals or to go for a captain position in the future. I hope people will be inspired by the work the captains and I do throughout the year.  I also hope to become a better role model for the school.

Who is a leader you admire and why do you admire them:
A leader who I admire is Malala Yousafzai. I admire her because she is courageous and she stands up for the things she cares the most for. She is both intelligent and an advocate for simple human rights, I admire her because she is an inspirational young woman.

What are some of your goals for the future?
In the future, I wish to go to University and get a Bachelor of Physiotherapy. I then hope to help people with injuries, deformities and diseases through the form of physiotherapy. One of my goals is to travel around the world and to indulge in some of the many cultures the world has to offer.

Final sentence for readers:

“Dream big, work hard, make it happen.”

Reminders

ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT

A reminder to families on a Direct Debit Payment Plan, the final instalment for 2018 is due to be deducted from your account on Thursday 16th August 2018.

Please ensure funds are available in your nominated account.  If you need to update or change your account details, please contact the General Office on 9727 8100.

Semester 2 Instrumental Music fees are due Tuesday 21st August.  Payment can be made via Compass or at the General Office/Student Admin Office.

GTAC Excursion - Years 9-11

Mooroolbark College was successful in obtaining the opportunity to attend the Gene Technology Access Centre's (GTAC) Applying genetic knowledge in prenatal and predictive genetic testing program. Mooroolbark College was allocated 75 places through a ballot process. This was a fantastic opportunity, which is highly sought after and available to a limited number of schools across Victoria.

The program for the day was a highly interactive and supportive environment in which students collaborated on a variety of activities. It was wonderful to see our Year 9 and 10 students extending their scientific knowledge while completing the program, which is designed for Year 11 Biology students.

Denise Raven
Science KLA Head

Click for photos 

Duke of Ed

Great Amazing Race 2018 

On Monday 23 July, our 2018 Duke of Ed team completed the annual Great Amazing Race through the city. We split into 5 teams with team ‘SMILE’ coming out on top in 1st place. Only 10 seconds behind in 2nd place was team ‘MOOZIE BEES'.

A great effort and once again a sensational attitude from all. Our Duke of Ed team represented our College brilliantly with thanks to Mr Lorkin and Mr Mann for coming along to facilitate and support.

Click for photos 

Warburton Trail Ride

On Thursday 28th of June our amazingly resilient Duke of Ed team of 2018 braved the freezing conditions on the beautiful Warby Trail.

We rode from Mt Evelyn to Warburton (34km) in a very good time and were almost able to feel our fingers and toes by the time we got there.

This experience is yet another addition to the mental and physical strength and courage this team is building this year!

Click for photos 

Camp #1

Our Year 9 Duke of Edinburgh class completed their practice journey to the Cathedral Ranges State Park on the 28th to 30th of May 2018.

How did they describe it? Exciting. Spectacular views. Cold. Wet. Campfire. Challenging. Tiring. Fulfilling. Sunshine. Grateful. Empathetic. Mindful. FUN!

A big thank you to Mr Van Keulen and past Duke of Edinburgh students, Paula & Jade Hubben and Jack Van Horn.

Click for photos 

Year 10 Pathways Day 2018

Our Year 10 students had their Pathways Day on Tuesday 19 June. The day began with students deciding on VCE or VCAL in 2019 and beyond and heard about University and TAFE life from Deakin and Box Hill Institute Representatives.   

Students were then treated  to special guest – Cam Greenwood (Monsta Surf Founder/Director). Cam told us all to “Live Passionately” by:

•  Setting your Compass – walking with purpose. 

•  Packing Lightly  - letting go of things with no purpose

•  Stepping out of your comfort zone – wild adventures all start with little steps.

•  Expecting storms – choose how you deal with them.

•  Keep moving – life is about positive persistence.

Click for photos 

Year 8 Boys Football

During Week 10 we had our Year 8 Boys football team compete at the Eastern Region Football quarter finals. The team were high in confidence coming off winning the Maroondah Division title. Our first game was against Vermont SC, which started off shaky with Vermont kicking the first 2 goals. The team lead by Marcus De Martino Rosaroll switched on and kicked 4 goals in the first half to take the lead. The boys extended their lead in the second half to take the win. Jackson Addicott was important down forward kicking 4 goals and Ashton Foulis was outstanding in the midfield.

The final game was against long-time rivals Lilydale SC. This match would decide who would progress through to the Eastern Region grand final. Once again, the team started slow, allowing Lilydale to get a 2 goal lead at half time. Aidan Gomiscek and Lachie Breen were vital in the midfield and once again, Ashton Foulis had plenty of the ball. In the second half Mooroolbark  kicked 4 goals to 0 and the boys held on to a 4 point victory. They have now progressed to the Eastern Region Grand final.  Every student should be extremely proud of their achievement and we wish them all the best in Term 3! Go Barkers!

Unit 4 Biology – Genetics Excursion

On the 17th July the Unit 4 Biology classes headed into Melbourne University with the final destination being the Genetics Laboratory. Students spent the morning separating DNA fragments based on size using gel electrophoresis. Measuring these fragments allowed the length of a particular gene be determined. Microscopes were also used to determine a mutation present in Drosophila melanogaster (the fruit fly) and students considered how this would impact its life span and ability to pass its genetic information to future generations. An issues workshop completed the day and students were given the opportunity to debate the pros and cons of genetically modified organisms and how their presence has biological, social and ethical consequences. We had many tired students on the train home.

Skye Jennings
Science KLA Head

Click for photos 

Library News

PREMIERS’ READING CHALLENGE 2018 – 3 WEEKS TO GO

The end of the Premiers’ Reading Challenge for 2018 is fast approaching. Less than 3 weeks remain! All students in Years 7-10 are automatically registered.  To complete the challenge students only need to read 15 books before the end of August.

Congratulations to the following students that have completed the challenge since out last newsletter.

Holly Waite
Melanie Tisch
Alexander Jackson
Emily Reid
Tyla Tarrant
Samantha Tan
Thang Zung Tha Thang
Maddy Heffernan
Caitlyn O'Rorke
Rhiann Grey
Acacia Pearce
Mikayla Mcinnes
Cara Schofield
Dylan Lamb
Amy Oliver
Ciara Delaney
Jesamine Newman

The Year 7 competition is also heating up with 7A taking the lead.

If you require more information, please contact Mr Neil-Holland at the College on 97278100 or via Compass.

Masterclass Sessions for VCE Units 3&4

This year’s Masterclass sessions for VCE Units 3&4 will be held at Lilydale High School PAC.

Bookings via Trybooking are now open; however, due to the date range closing times vary for each subject so please check carefully.

Online bookings are essential, as we will not be accepting cash payment on the door this year.

To book your place please visit https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=398110&

Click here to see the classes on offer

Calendar Term Three 2018

College Office Hours

College Office Hours

MONDAY- THURSDAY: 8.15AM- 4.00PM

FRIDAY 8.15AM- 3.30PM

Calendar

TERM THREE

 AUGUST

10th Yr 10 (2019) course counselling Yr 9 (2019) selections due
11TH -19TH - SCIENCE WEEK 
12th - 14th Yr 12 OES Mt Stirling Camp 
13th Yr 11 (2019) course counselling (no Yr 10 classes)
14th Resources 7pm
15th Year 10 selections due
16th Yr 12 (2019) course counselling (no Yr 11 classes)
17th ASPIRE Science Excursion
18th Debutante Ball 
20th Yr 12 VCAL (2019) course counselling
21st  College Council 7pm
22nd Yr 12 selections due
27th SRC Free Dress Day
31st End of Premier’s Reading Challenge

SEPTEMBER

4th Education 4.30pm
4th PTCA 7pm
7th YR 10 Social
7th Newsletter
11th VCAL (2019) preparation evening 7pm
13th Mooroolbark College Annual Ski Day
18th Carnival Day (TBC)
18th Community Relations (4.30pm)
18th College Council (7pm)
19th Yr 10 mock interviews
20th Yr 12 practice English exam
20th Parent Teacher Interviews- Students not required at College they are to accompany Parents/Guardians to interviews
21st  Last day of Term Three (Students dismissed 2.30pm)

Community Circle

Mooroolbark College is committed to supporting our local community. Please see below for our community notices:

WEP
Montrose Netball Club
Headspace Yoga Program
Cricket
EPC (Eastern Palliative Care)
Mooroolbark Junior Cricket 
Danielle Sargent Photography

WEP

Not-for-profit student exchange organisation, WEP Australia, is giving away our ever-popular upside down world maps. To request your maps, please click here. Our maps encourage students to see the world from a different perspective, considering our place on the globe and igniting classroom discussion.

Who are we?
WEP Australia provides high schoolers with the opportunity to complement their secondary studies with a summer, semester or year abroad. For students wanting to learn a second or third language, improve their current language abilities or simply wanting to experience a new culture, a WEP student exchange opens a world of possibilities.

This term, not-for-profit student exchange organisation, World Education Program (WEP) Australia, is holding a free information session .

For students interested in an exchange program, scholarships and specials are currently available and more information can be requested at WEP.ORG.AU.

Click here for details 

Montrose Netball Club

Montrose Netball Club are offering an All Abilities netball program in 2018.  All Abilities netball provides the chance for people with a physical or intellectual disability to participate directly or indirectly in local clubs and associations.  These programs are run by accredited coaches with working with children checks.
A ‘Come and Try Netball Day’ was successfully held on Friday 25th May 2018 from 4:00 to 5:00 pm.  Feedback, photos, flyers and information can be located on our website under the ‘All Abilities Program’ menu tab.
Free Fortnightly Netball Skills Clinics will be running from Friday 24th August 2018 from 4:00 to 5:00 pm.  Attached is a flyer containing more details about this exciting event.  Clinic dates are:  Fridays 24/8, 7/9, 21/9, 12/10, 26/10, 9/11, 23/11 and 7/12.
The focus will be basic skill development in a fun and friendly atmosphere.  No previous netball experience is required.

Click here for details 

Headspace Yoga Program

Headspace is super excited to announce our upcoming Yoga Program at headspace Knox. They will take young people through yoga sequences followed by some psychoeducation to help integrate it into daily life as a regulation and grounding tool. Young people do not need to have done yoga before or be flexible. You don’t need to attend all the sessions but we ask participants to be present for a full session when they do come.

Click here for details 

Cricket

Cricket season is fast approaching and with your help, we can let the community know there are options on where they can play and what programs are available, so we have developed this ‘Cricket Trade Fair’, if you will, to offer this opportunity to everyone, get children active and open up possibilities for families to become part of new support systems.
https://playcricket.com.au/junior

https://www.cricketvictoria.com.au/

Click here for details 

EPC

EPC (Eastern Palliative Care) works in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne with people who are dying.
We work in their own homes and we depend on an army of volunteers in order to be able to care effectively for our clients.
We are recruiting for our next round of volunteers and I was wondering if you or anyone in your communities would be interested in volunteering with us.
Our vols love the work they do – but they need help.

The roles we are recruiting for are:

• Award winning biography program – biographers, transcribers, formatters

• Companionship

• Transport

• Dog walking

• Carer Support

Click here for details 

Mooroolbark Junior Cricket 

Join the Mighty Barkers! Come down to meet the coaches and enjoy a sausage sizzle on Sunday the 12th of August between 11am and 2pm

Click here for details 

Danielle Sargent Photography

Looking for a photographer to capture special memories of the family, newborn, glamour, portfoilio or event?  Contact Danielle Sargent 

Click for details

Partnership with The Professionals Real Estate

Mooroolbark College has developed a partnership with The Professionals Real Estate – Mooroolbark through former student, Regina Atkinson.

On behalf of The Professionals Real Estate – Mooroolbark, a donation of $500 will be made to Mooroolbark College for every house sold through the Mooroolbark College community. If you are considering selling your home, Regina can be contacted on 0417 565 624 and mention that you belong to the Mooroolbark College community.