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Newsletter Edition 3 – Monday 29 May 2023

29th May 2023

In this Issue:

Upcoming Events
Next College Principal’s Report

College Principal’s Report

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Commencing with National Sorry Day on Friday May 26, National Reconciliation Week will see a number of events at our college to mark the injustices done to first nations peoples between colonisation today, celebrate the strength and continuity of indigenous cultures, and to further the reconciliation process. I am inspired by the commitment of our own indigenous students and the level of pride in their own culture. I can announce that at the Middle Years Campus, across the second half of this year a student led, community-based project will be working to restore an unused part of the school grounds into a ‘Yarning Circle’ – a place for students, staff and the community to come together to talk, share and reflect. While it will be student led, we are also looking for community members who may wish to be involved in this initiative and I encourage you to make contact with me here at school if you are interested in being involved and supporting our students. 

At the Senior Campus we will also be commencing a mural project, on the theme of culture and reconciliation, with the support of the acclaimed local Aboriginal artist Ray Thomas. This will be going up across the wall of our Student Wellbeing Hub and I look forward to sharing this with you and launching it when it is complete.  

Last week on Thursday May 18, students from the Standout Groups on both campuses raised the Pride or ‘rainbow’ flag to mark IDAHOBIT day. The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia helps raise awareness of the discrimination that that marginalised young people in these groups continue to face and the negative outcomes that this can create. Discrimination and harassment is not ok within our school community, whether it is related to race and religion, gender, sexuality and identity or for any other reason. I am not naive in pretending that it never occurs at our school, but I am proud of the way our diverse community generally works together and looks at each other as a person, rather than a ‘label’. Please call it out if it is occurring and let us know – working together over time will create a safe and genuinely inclusive community for all students. 

I am pleased to report that our first School Council meeting with our new council was held last week. It was great to welcome a new member, Mr Hawking – a Year 7 parent, to the group and we were also able to elect new office bearers including Mr Blewett – a Year 8 parent as our new President. Cameron takes over from Ms Filev – Year 9 parent, who has served our school community for seven years in this role, and I would like to publicly acknowledge her commitment and support during this time. Kathy played a central role in the development of our current school strategic plan, has a deep understanding of the strengths of our college, as well as the next steps that we need to take to make it even better. She remains a member of School Council and I know we will continue to benefit from her support, perspective and expertise. Thanks Kathy! 

Next week all of our Year 12 English students will participate in a revision lecture with Ross Huggard, a highly experienced teacher, examiner and now educational consultant. He is working with our team of Year 12 teachers this year and we are very lucky to be able to have him present to our students. He will also be running a masterclass for students who have completed all of their coursework in English and are working at a higher level. These are fantastic opportunities to push their thinking, skills and understanding to the next level and I look forward to attending myself and see them in action. We are now more than halfway through the year of classes for our Year 12 students, and I know the pressure is building. We all need to wrap around these young people, encourage them to persist, celebrate their growth and help them stay focused on end goal at the end of this year. If you have any concerns about how your child is progressing or travelling, do not hesitate to contact us here at school – our team of Student Engagement Leaders is keen to assist. 

Finally, I am pleased to report that our Performing Arts Centre is finally rising out of the ground with the pre-cast concrete panels being delivered over the course of this week. It is so exciting to see the building take shape after many months of planning. I was able to drop in and see our current Production, ‘Rock of Ages’ in rehearsal, and while the theatre will not be ready for their performances in August, our students will soon have the state-of-the-art facility for the performing arts that they deserve. 

Here is an update on our Performing Arts Centre at our Middle Years Campus. Exciting times ahead as it starts to take shape! 

PreviousCover PageNext Senior Years Campus – Principal’s Message

Senior Years Campus – Principal’s Message

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It has been a busy time for students at the Senior Campus as the end of Semester 1 looms closer. Most Year 12 students are preparing for their final SAC’s for Unit 3 in all of their classes over the next two weeks after which they will begin their Unit 4 topics, two weeks before the end of this term. For Year 10 students who are gearing up for their Semester 1 exams, they are completing the last topic of work will be quickly followed by revision for the first semesters work. Although attendance is important at all times throughout the year, attendance is most critical as this major assessment time approaches.

Uniform

After much consultation with students last year, I am pleased to be able to inform you that the new Mill Park Secondary College uniform jacket is now available from the uniform shop, PSW, at 4/5 Danaher Drive South Morang. This jacket is another option to the current uniform jacket or uniform jumper and is a ‘bonded’ material that is windproof.

Students are expected to be in full uniform every day or bring a signed note and wear similar style and colour clothes if they do not have correct uniform on any particular day. If parents want assistance with purchasing uniform, please contact the Wellbeing team at either campus.

Sports

Senior Campus students have competed in a range of sports over the last few week. Netball, AFL Football, Badminton, Athletics and Soccer. One of the outstanding results was the Senior Boys Soccer. They won each of their game and now go onto the next round.

Outdoor Education Camp

Last Friday 26 May, eleven of our Year 10 students went on an overnight hike to Kinglake with two of our staff members. Although the weather was not in their favour, they all enjoyed the experience which will give them memories that will last a lifetime.

Cultural Diversity Day

On Friday 19 May was out of uniform day to celebrate Cultural Diversity our at Senior Campus and College. The student leadership team encouraged students to wear clothing that represents their culture. It was a fantastic day and we raised $276!

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Middle Years Campus – Principal’s Message

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It has been a busy and exciting start to Term 2 at Middle Years Campus.

We have launched Regulation Stations in all classrooms. These stations provide a range of sensory tools to our students that can assist them to be ready to learn. We are continuing to re-teach and emphasise our positive learning routines including; lining up quietly at the beginning of a class, having a settled and focused start to all lessons and leaving no footprint at the end of a class, so the next group can begin their learning. We encourage our parent/carers to have conversations with your young people at home to encourage and support these routines at school.

We also remind our families about the importance of students coming to school in correct uniform. Students can choose which uniform items they wear; however, they must be Mill Park Secondary College items. Students can wear a long black or white sleeve top under their uniform for extra warmth, however, this must not have a hood.

Cultural Dress Day

Our students, towards the end of Term 1, took part in Cultural Dress Day, coming to school dressed in clothing reflecting their culture. This was an incredible day, with students sharing a piece of their culture with the wider school and demonstrating the amazing diversity that exits within our Mill Park Secondary community.

Reclink

Our College Wellbeing team have also been working hard to ensure students have access to a range of activities at lunchtime. They have enlisted the services of Reclink, a community, non-profit organisation, who are able to come into the school and run a range of lunchtime activities with our students that foster collaboration, connection, and enjoyment. As well as this, we recently celebrated the Eid festival at Mill Park Secondary College with a lunchtime event involving a basketball competition and a range of other activities. Again, a huge thank you our Wellbeing team for working hard to ensure our students can have positive experiences throughout their school day.

Our Middle Years Engagement Hub is due to open the coming weeks. This space will bring our student engagement team into the one working space and foster collaboration between them, as well as be another space in the school where students can access support in the areas of learning, wellbeing and engagement. We look forward to seeing this space come to life.

Over the last few months, we have hosted several opportunities for our wider community to come into the Middle Years Campus and see all the amazing things we have to offer. Our Showcase evening late last term was a huge success with eighty families in attendance, despite the horrible weather. We had over fifty families attend our Accelerated Learning Program information night, and we also had a group of primary school children, and their parents attend our Connecting to Secondary Transition experience. This allowed local families to get a taste of secondary school life.

This term our focus continues to be on instilling positive and learning focused routines in our young people, to ensure that we maintain high levels of attendance and engagement in learning and that our students feel connected to their school. We will continue working through our curriculum review to ensure we are meeting the learning needs of all our students. We are also beginning to embark on a refurbish of the Middle Years Campus with a focus on new classroom furniture, carpet and painting of the classroom and foyer areas.

In other exciting news, I have been in touch with PAWS Australia, a Department of Education endorsed organisation supporting purchasing and training of therapy dogs in schools. They have confirmed that we will be the proud owners of a Groodle puppy later this year, who will be trained as a therapy/connection dog and be an important part of our positive school culture and environment at Middle Years Campus. I look forward to announcing the arrival of the newest member of our Mill Park community a bit later this year.

I acknowledge the hard work of all staff and students at our Middle Years Campus and look forward to an exciting term ahead!

PreviousSenior Years Campus – Principal’s MessageNext Physical Education/Health

Physical Education/Health

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Northern Metropolitan Region Year 8 Boys’ Tennis Competition

May 1 was an eventful day for the Year 8 Boys’ Tennis Team who, thanks to parents Stella and Jaspreet, made their own way to Oak Park Tennis Club. Once there, the boys’ hard work during the term was rewarded with wins of 6 sets to love against Aitkin College and Coburg High School. Although the third team, St Helena College, proved a little more of a challenge, a 19 to 14 games win to Mill Park took us to the finals against Hume Anglican Grammar, our old nemeses in last year’s regional finals.

Once students Ali, Yuvraaj, Nehan, and Jayden got into the groove for the finals, their win of 5 sets to 1 (21 games to 10) clinched their spot for the State Competition to be played a little later this year at Dendy Park Tennis Club Brighton.

A special thanks once again goes to parent Stella who today not only acted as a taxi driver for the students, but also impressed us with her baked goodies. Her encouragement as our resident cheer squad and team assistant coach was much appreciated.

The Intermediate Boys went out on the Monday 22 May. They had a full fixture of four games to navigate. The day started off well with a 2-0 victory against a well drilled Epping team, Nicholas scored an amazing free kick to give the team some breathing room. In the second game the boys showed off their talents a bit more fluently against The Lakes, the free flowing play allowed for four goals to be scored and one conceded, the game ended up 4-1. The most challenging game of the day proved to be against Hazel Glen, chances were created at both ends with some great saves from both school’s goalkeepers, the game ended 0-0. Entering the last game of the day against Gilson, Mill Park needed a win and a big swing in goal difference to advanced to the next round. Hazel Glen were tied with Mill Park on points, however had a two goal advantage on goal difference. Leading 5-0 at halftime the team had taken the lead over Hazel Glen who were up 3-1 in their own game. An exceptional second half that saw the team knock in eight goals, all but assuring progression to the next round with the 13-0 victory. The boys played in a respectful manner and worked well as a cross campus team. The team was led by Meeka from Year 9 and Lucas from Year 12 was an excellent assistant coach to Mr. Lewis. Every member of the team can hold their head high after representing the school in such high esteem. Good luck for the next round!

The Year 9 Boys and Girls Badminton team also went out on Monday 22 May they had a great day playing badminton at the Diamond Valley Sports Centre. Unfortunately, we lost but we had some very close games, and our star player Sajjal was undefeated in singles! It was overall a fun day.

Sexuality Education – Staff Professional Development

During the last week of Term 1, approximately 30 staff including members from the Principal Team, Student Engagement Leaders, Student Welfare & Mental Health and PE/Health teams attended an insightful and informative professional development session aimed at building staff capacity to develop and deliver a safe and engaging Sexuality Education program across Years 7 – 12 at the College to be delivered throughout Term 3. The session was facilitated by Elephant Education. Although this can be a very sensitive and difficult conversation for adults to have with young people it is an important topic that is required to be addressed as part of the Victorian Curriculum. Below I have outlined the rationale and aims of an effective Sexuality Education program.

Why do we need Sexuality Education?

  • The latest national research has revealed that most young people learn about sex and sexual health (93 per cent) from school-based sexuality education programs.
  • Family members were also found to be a significant source of information at 61 per cent.
  • Students reported low levels of confidence to discuss sexuality or contraception with parents.
  • Research tells us that school children are turning to schools and their families for reliable information.
  • Research tells us that many young people are sexually active in some way, and this has increased over the last decade
  • There are numerous competing messages about sexuality in the world.
  • Comprehensive, whole-school sexuality education, that provides consistent and accurate information to all young Victorians from an early age and is respectful of diversity, can contribute to positive behaviour change.
  • Young people can make good decisions about their sexual health if education policies, programs and services are available to help them.
  • A shared partnership approach between schools, parents and the local community will ensure sound, evidence-based and responsible sexuality education is readily available for all Victorian young people.

Educational goal of Sexuality Education

1.    The primary goal of the school-based sexuality education program is to build on knowledge, skills, and behaviours, thus enabling young people to make responsible and safe choices.

2.    Sexuality education aims to prepare students for a sexually healthy adulthood. Assessment of student achievement is reported against the learning standards within the health and physical education domain of the Victorian essential learning standards.

Questions and Answers on Sexuality Education

Senior and Middle Years Outdoor Table Tennis Tables

The College has recently purchased and installed two outdoor table tennis tables designed to promote physical activity and engagement during recess and lunchtime. Students can borrow bats and balls from either the Student Engagement Hub at Middle Years Campus or from Block 13 office at the Senior Campus. Students are encouraged to bring their own bats and balls if they wish to do so also. The table tennis tables look great with their customized artwork. We would love to see lots of students getting involved in the activity and making use of the new resource.

 Year 8 Physical Education / Health

Year 8 students have all been participating in a range of Cultural games throughout the last few weeks in practical classes. These include games like Bocci and Finska and Indigenous games such as: Edor and Gorri. Whilst participating in these games students learn about the history and culture of different games and how they have been modified into the sports we know today.

Year 10 Physical Education Elective

Year 10 PE students were introduced to the rules, tactics and strategies involved in a modified version of ‘American Football’ which has been gaining popularity over the years in Australia and across the College. Students were placed into teams and were responsible for creating and calling their own offensive and defensive plays as part of their teams playbook. The lesson was a great success and I was impressed by the creativity the class demonstrated when designing set plays either to score a touchdown or defend their territory.

Year 11 VCE Physical Education 

In Year 11 PE,  students have been examining the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the human body and how the heart, blood vessels and lungs function at rest and during physical activity. Through practical activities students have explored the structure and function of the cardiorespiratory system and their contributions and interactions during physical activity, sport and exercise. To build their understanding of the key concepts, Ms. Ashby’s PE class created an obstacle course of the cardiorespiratory system and the movement of an oxygen molecule around the body.

HOW TO BOOST YOUR STUDY SCORE (Health and Human Development)

PreviousMiddle Years Campus – Principal’s MessageNext Language

Language

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Our English Language Centre students recently wrote pen pal letters to students at Lakewood Public School in Canada. The students were excited to learn about each other’s cultures and share their experiences. They wrote about their families, hobbies, and their schooling experience. The letters were a great way for the students to connect with each other and learn about different parts of the world.

Dante Alighieri Poetry Competition

Our Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 students are preparing for the Dante Alighieri poetry competition, held by the Dante Alighieri Society every year. In fact, on Tuesday 30 May, we will travel to the University of Melbourne, where our students will recite the Italian poem of their choice to the judges. All adults involved in the running of the competition have been briefed on Child Safe standards and the DA Society has a Child Safe plan in place.

Our students will compete against other students from Victorian schools; there are roughly fifty schools participating in the competition, the final number of participants is 1413. There are three different sections: Italian-Australian, Non-Italian, Native. Our students have been allocated to their corresponding group.

A big thank you to all those parents/carers who have encouraged their children to participate; it is an experience which will help them to build resilience, in addition to developing mental skills and abilities which will be very helpful in the future. With your support, your children have learned to win every fear and embrace a healthy competition.

On the 30 May we ask that all students participating in the competition be dropped off at the Middle Years Campus, 9-25 Moorhead Drive, Mill Park, they need to arrive at 9.00am and wait in the foyer near the reception desk. Once the roll has been called, we will leave around 9.15am. We will return to school by 3.05pm at regular dismissal time, but not before having paid a visit to the wonderful patisserie Brunetti, which is next door to the competition.

We are delighted to have Mr. Natoli accompanying us, who is looking forward to hearing our students reciting Italian poems in the bus! It has been a sheer pleasure as a teacher to see the enthusiasm that our students have demonstrated in learning well, in order to excel. I am so proud of each student for trying hard and giving their best. Let’s wish all the students good luck and to come back victorious!

In bocca al lupo, ragazzi!

PreviousPhysical Education/HealthNext STEM

STEM

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Whittlesea Tech School

This semester in the Year 9 Project STEM class, the semester project is to design an innovation lab that focuses on three areas: Well-being, Sustainability, and space for collaborative learning. The students participated in an all day workshop with the Whittlesea Tech School. 

“On a crisp, sunny morning, we the students of Ms Alexander’s Project STEM class, embarked on a memorable excursion to Whittlesea Tech School with Ms Ferris and Ms Alexander. Packed with anticipation, we were eager to explore the world of technology and witness first hand the power of Autodesk and 3D design. Little did we know that this day would be filled with inspiration, creativity, and a glimpse into the future of innovation.

After a smooth bus ride, we arrived at Whittlesea Tech School promptly at 9:15 am, our knowledgeable guide for the day, greeted us warmly and wasted no time in introducing us to the wonders of Autodesk. With passion and enthusiasm, he explained how this leading company revolutionized the realm of 3D design and its applications in various fields worldwide. We were thrilled to discover that Autodesk offers free access to students, unlocking endless possibilities for our own creative journeys.” – Aquinas (Year 9)

Fusion 360 Familiarization and Design Exploration:

Eager to dive into the world of design, we were guided to the computer labs where Fusion 360 awaited us. Whittlesea Tech School had thoughtfully prepared walkthroughs and helpful videos to familiarize us with the software. With each click and keystroke, we delved deeper into the realm of 3D design, immersing ourselves in the potential of bringing our ideas to life. The hands-on experience empowered us to envision our projects and embrace the possibilities of innovation.

Starting off designing the “Sustainable Innovation Lab”

Following a rejuvenating lunch break, the attentive staff at Whittlesea Tech School provided us with writing materials and encouraged us to start designing our very own “Sustainable Innovation Lab”, as part of our school assignment. Guided by our facilitator, we marveled at the fusion of creativity and technology, as he showcased how different parts of the tech school had been meticulously designed using Fusion 360. Inspired by his demonstration, we eagerly set to work, designing intricate components that would later be transformed into tangible objects through the magic of 3D printing.

As the clock neared 2:10 pm, we reluctantly wrapped up our projects, realising that time had flown by in the midst of our creative fervour. Though we wished we could have stayed longer, the bus awaited our return to school. However, the impact of the day lingered, and we eagerly shared our experiences during the bus ride back. Upon arriving at school, we gathered in the library, excitedly recalling and reflecting on everything we had learned and achieved throughout the day.

The excursion to Whittlesea Tech School was a day of discovery, inspiration, and hands-on exploration. From the warm welcome by our teachers and the facilities staff, to our immersion in the world of Autodesk and Fusion 360, we experienced first hand the power of technology and design. Our minds brimmed with newfound knowledge and our hearts with a sense of creative possibility. This excursion proved to be an invaluable experience, offering us insights into the innovative future that lies ahead.

On Friday 12 May, Year 11 Vocational Major students visited Whittlesea Tech School and participated in The Future of Work inquiry program. Students were given the opportunity to explore a topic that will directly affect them in the future and were able to gain an insight into some of the key changes to the workforce. They explored the impacts of artificial intelligence, big data, automation, and globalisation. Lily D’Ambrosio, the Minister for Climate Action and representing the electorate of Mill Park was also visiting the tech school on the day and spoke to some of our students about the Future of Work program as well as their future career plans.

Progressive Achievement Test

Over the past two weeks, students in Years 7-10 have been actively participating in the ACER PAT testing program.

This program is aimed at assessing the skills and knowledge of students in various subject areas, including Reading, Science, and Mathematics. It has been impressive to see the students’ level of engagement and commitment towards improving their academic performance.

One of the significant benefits of the Acer PAT testing program is that it provides detailed reports on students’ performance, which can be used to identify their strengths and weaknesses. This information can then be used to tailor the teaching approach to each student’s specific needs and help them achieve their academic goals.

It is essential to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of teachers who have been working tirelessly to organise and conduct the ACER PAT testing program in our school.

As the testing program continues, we encourage students to continue putting in their best effort and to approach the tests with a positive mindset.

We look forward to receiving the results and using them to improve the teaching and learning experience in our school.

Bake Off

The heightened state of excitement, pressure and pure competition filled the food room of Mill Park Secondary College on Thursday 11 May. The class of Year 10 Urban Cuisine students paired up to put their baking skills to the test and participated in a Bake-Off.

The Bake-Off competition asked students to investigate, design and produce a fully decorated cake in celebration of an event of their choice. On the day of the competition, our Food Technology kitchen transformed into a lively blend of intense concentration and creativity, where students constructed cakes and demonstrated their talents.

The judging was performed by a team of Mill Park Secondary College staff members; Ms Quayle, Ms Serdar and Ms Gorsevski.

Congratulations to students Viktoria and Ana who won the competition and Shibaani and Siraprapa who were our runners-up. 

Year 8 Food Tech students Katia, Willow and Lilian completed their ‘Design your own pizza’ practical task which was a massive success! Congratulations everyone. 

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Humanities

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Senior Campus Humanities

This term the Year 12 Ancient History class visited the Hellenic Museum in the CBD on Tuesday 9 May to attend a workshop on Ancient Greek warfare during the Peloponnesian War. The curators guided the students through an analysis of written sources and provided them with the opportunity to interact with ancient coins, arrowheads, knives, and helmets. The students enjoyed the experience and felt more confident in understanding the Peloponnesian War.

“I learnt quite a bit about the physical materials that contributed to the war and military tactics – such as how they smelted down their bronze statues in order to make weapons to fight.” Emma I.

“I learnt more about the culture and the artefacts, not only ancient but semi-modern, while exploring the museum. I also learnt more about Thucydides recording the war as a historian while he was there and continued to record it even after he was exiled as he didn’t make the right call; he watched from a distance and still tried to record the relevant parts of the war from the people who helped him giving him information from their thoughts and sides.” Leisha D.

“I liked learning more about the statue of Rhodes. I also learned about how during the war, Athen’s drachma was forced on its allies and became a national currency.” Aaron H.

The Year 12 students can explore their passion for the Peloponnesian War in their upcoming Historical Inquiry SAC. They will be able to conduct extensive research on a particular topic related to the war, using the newfound knowledge and interest they gained from this excursion.

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Visual and Performing Arts

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The annual College Production is a spectacular event and the cast and band members have been learning to play the classic rock songs from the 1980s performed by the glam metal bands of the time. They are continuing to learn the script, songs, and choreography for the two part act of ‘Rock of Ages – Teen Edition”. The production team are working with the talented cast and band in preparation for the five amazing live performances on stage at the Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre in July. We are excited to bring this musical to stage soon!  Join the audience and enjoy the show. Two evening performances only. Book your Tickets early to avoid disappointment. 

Year 8 and 9 Music

Year 8 and 9 Music students have been rehearsing and refining their music skills and getting ready to perform in one of the most anticipated music events of the Term, School of Rock! The “17TH SCHOOL OF ROCK MUSIC EVENT” for the Northern Western Victorian Region, will showcase the depth of our students musical talents.

This exciting gathering brings together students of all ages, including our talented Year 8 and 9 students who have been working diligently to prepare for this event. The stage will be graced by a diverse range of students, including instrumental music enthusiasts and those driven by their deep passion for music.

Year 8 Visual Arts

Students have been developing their understanding in Visual Communication design. Their focus has been looking at various design elements and principles such as line, shape and repetition that make up effective designs. They have engaged in various line activities including creating interesting illusions and two dimensional effects in design.

Year 9 Media

Students have been developing their understanding of important elements of story boards by analysing the different elements that should be included in their story, to create interesting stop motion animations using the mobile devices as a recording tool.

They are also learning to use the technology by collaboratively working with group members, to design and produce a stop motion animation using still images, coherent movement of characters, audio effects and background music.

VCE Art Making & Exhibiting

As part of the new study design, students are actively engaged in art making using materials, techniques and processes. They are exploring contexts, subject matter, and ideas to develop artworks in imaginative and creative ways. They also investigate how artists use visual language to represent ideas and meaning in artworks. The materials, techniques and processes of the art form the students work with are fundamental to the artworks they make.

Students are using their Visual Arts journal to record their art making. This includes recording their research of artists, artworks and collecting ideas and also document the aspects of art making to connect the inspirations and influences they have researched. The Visual Arts journal includes the students’ exploration of contexts, ideas and subject matter and their understanding of visual language. They also document their exploration of and experimentation with materials, techniques and processes. From the ideas documented in their Visual Arts journal, students are in the process of planning and exploring ideas for their artworks, whilst reflecting on their own ideas and developing a style.

Year 9 Ceramics Pop Art Inspired Sculpture

Students designed and produced Pop Art inspired sculptures in Ceramics. They were inspired by the way Pop Art took inspiration from everyday objects and popular culture. The class had lots of fun but felt a bit hungry being around such delicious ‘food’ before the lunch bell.

Student Perspective: Year 12 Visual Arts Captain

“I have explored symbolic themes by using flora and its life cycles to represent powerful emotions. I have developed an abstract style by using colours and textures in an expressive way. Some of my textures are so coarse that you can almost physically grasp the dried paint. I used impasto medium to give the roughness of petals and drying leaves. Like plants, we are born fresh and new but we all have our time under the sun. Above all, I want my artwork to bring joy to the viewer in addition to their own interpretation”. – Madina

VCE Visual Communication Design

Year 11 Visual Communication Design students have been learning about the effective use of design elements and principles and how to incorporate these into effective poster designs. They are developing an understanding of the key features and functions of design elements by analysing and interpreting existing designs. They are working on generating ideas and using creative and critical design thinking tools to develop their own ideas in response to a brief based on the environment and sustainability. Students are also learning about techniques in the use of markers and the most suitable digital/adobe programs to refine and communicate their ideas and awareness of aspects that affect the environment.

Year 12 Visual Communication Design students have been busy working on their folio work and learning about the practice of contemporary designers. They have been learning how to develop a brief and generate ideas based on their identified needs of a fictitious client. They have been involved in creating observational and visualization drawings and designs for their folio work and learning about the importance of the design process and the effective use of design thinking strategies. Students studying Visual communication gain an understanding of the professional practices in Communication, Environmental and Industrial design. It also provides students with a broad range of skills and knowledge in preparation for a future career and further education and training in the architecture, interior design, graphic design, advertising, branding, marketing, publishing and product design industry.’ Future creatives are students who have a passion for design and creativity and seek human centered design solutions.

Architecture and Design

Year 10 Architecture & Design students have been learning about the role of an interior designer and creating a design of a living space of their own choice. This has included an understanding of a mood board and the redevelopment of a space within a building/structure. This also involves learning about the importance of communication with clients and architects to work out the needs of the clients. To develop designs that are functional and aesthetically pleasing for the space e.g. living room, bedroom or an entertainment space.

Students have been preparing drawings and selecting specific materials, furniture, lighting and planning of the space using research and mood boards and creating their impression of the space with markers and one point perspective drawings.

Student perspective:

“I have enjoyed doing the one-point perspective drawings and in particular being able to design the interior of a bedroom into a three-dimensional drawing. I have created an interior space which features windows on the back wall, display shelves, timber flooring with an ensuite. This is based on my mood board which is based on classic modern styling” – Armina

“I enjoyed researching and exploring aspects of a modern living room as that was what I drew and designed. I created a living area with a sunken lounge, a wooden feature with food to ceiling windows and marble tiling. The room had its challenges drawing wise but this got me to understand the thought processes that interior designers go through throughout the design process” – Purity

“For architecture I have created a modern living room. I have enjoyed being able to use my creativity to make a great 1-point perspective drawing, which represents a contemporary space with a fireplace, paintings, TV screen, TV unit, sofa, coffee table and a rug” – Cameron

VET Dance

The VCE VET Dance students are preparing for their end of term semester assessments by rehearsing for their ensemble dance routines. Students have been learning about incorporating artistic expression into their dance performances and are also developing creative contemporary dance techniques. They are also learning about key technical skills/procedures to the standard required in the workplace. Students doing the program gain qualifications which are recognised throughout Australia and it provides students with a broad range of skills and knowledge in preparation for a future career  and training in the live performance industry.

Valerie T: I love VET Dance! Dancing with my friends and other people from external schools is a great opportunity to grow. The dances are fun and create a sense of team togetherness.

Louise K: VET Dance is a good opportunity to learn from our teacher and other dancers in the class. The theory allows me to approach dance studies from a different perspective and it teaches me aspects of the creative arts industry that will be beneficial for a future career in Dance.

Angelina D: VET Dance is a great opportunity to get an inside look into the performing arts field. I love the uniqueness of the class, we learn through practical based tasks and have opportunities to learn from professionals in the industry. VET Dance allows me to further develop my dance skills with my peers… plus the dances are super fun!

VCE VET Fashion

Vet Fashion in Term One was very busy with 1st year students developing their skills in the textiles work room, gaining knowledge of the machinery and processes used in construction and 2nd year students were learning about millinery and creating their own head pieces. Our Term1 finished with an excursion to the Alexander McQueen Exhibition at the NGV, where students took part in an interactive forum learning about the how this designer established himself and how he designed and used inspiration for his designs. We then explored the exhibition, shopped in the gallery and had lunch in the great hall at NGV.

In Term Two, 1st year students have been working on pattern knowledge and modification techniques and are currently creating their own products/skirts and will conclude with cargo pants as their second garment for this project. The 2nd year students are developing a design concept folio to create their own choice of garments such as tops, cargo pants, dresses and cultural attire. Students studying the VCE VET Applied Fashion Design and Technology program, gain a qualification which is recognised throughout Australia. This provides students with a broad range of skills and knowledge to pursue a career or further training in the fashion industry.

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Wellbeing

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Farewell Sarah

Unfortunately, this term, we have had to farewell one of our mental health practitioners, Sarah Hull-Brown. She has made an amazing contribution to the school and wellbeing team, establishing wonderful systems and relationships at Middle Years Campus. We wish her all the best in her new role in Careers Advisory at another high school.

The wellbeing team and contacts are:

Term 2 Lunchtime Activities

Term 2 has seen the official wellbeing launch to support students via various lunchtime activities and programs. The wellbeing centre provides daily opportunities for students to utilise the space including:

  • Open sessions during recess or lunch, where students can drop in for an informal chat, access resources, or learn how to get more formal support.
  • Breakfast club at Senior Campus on Friday mornings via Food Bank
  • Art program: paint by numbers or free paint on canvas, jewellery making, soap making or face mists (facilitated by Innovation Youth Centre).
  • Morning Meditation: students can start their morning with intention setting, guided meditation, tea and hangs before heading off to class.
  • Yoga at Middle Years Campus
  • Gardening at Senior Campus where students can learn how to grow fruits and vegetable, when is best to plant certain seeds and maintain a health garden.
  • Giant games and board games including Jenga, connect 4, corn holes (bag toss), sequence, uno, chess, to name a few.
  • Toasties, smoothies, or fresh juices on Tuesdays during recess
  • Sport / Gym activities facilitated by Reclink Australia

All activities rotate weekly with attached timetable for the term.

It was wonderful to see many students and staff attend the lunchtime wellbeing launch which we hope to continue and expand ongoing with more opportunities for students to participate in various activities of interest.

Students who are interested in joining any of the lunchtime activities can express their interest via the below forms:

Middle Years Campus

Senior Campus

On Wednesday 3 May at lunchtime there were cultural celebrations that included many activities hosted by the team at the Innovation Youth Centre (IYC) who came to visit Mill Park Secondary College. The activities included a basketball competition, loom band making, lantern making, tug of rope and the cornhole game. There were also lolly bags and prizes!

Celebrating our differences, as well as our common interests, helps unite and educate us, reducing discrimination and intolerance. These celebrations were in honour of EID but also as a general celebration of the diversity at Mill Park Secondary College.

Here is a passage from our Year 9 wellbeing ambassador Mustafa, regarding Ramadan and EID:

“Ramadan is a month from the Islamic calendar where Muslims fast from sun rise to sunset for 30 days. The start or end of this month can depend on the moon as well as when to start and end fasting. It is a month not only for fasting, but to strengthen Islamic bonds and to be respectful (e.g., no swearing, drinking etc). Once the 30-days is over, Eid begins. Eid (also known as Eid Al Fitr) is a 3-day celebration to mark the end of Ramadan and celebrate the blessings of the holy month. During Eid, people dress up, kids receive money and/or gifts, and there are many international calls made and family gatherings. There are also many public gatherings, which families can attend with food, carnival rides and games. Once Eid is over, it is not an invitation to go to ‘old habits’, it’s a time to continue those Islamic habits in the future.”

    Information for Students and Parents/Carers

Parent/Carer sessions – Innovation Youth Centre (IYC)

Parentzone and Innovation Youth Centre are hosting a FREE in person 6-week program in Bundoora titled “Parents Building Solutions – Teens”. This program will provide parents the opportunity to discuss challenges they’re experiencing and explore topics including understanding their teen and strengthening their relationship with their teenager. Please see below flyer for details:

What’s on in the community

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Careers

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Congratulations to student Liam in Year 11 who commenced his school based apprenticeship through the Head Start pathway program. Liam is undertaking a Certificate III in Stonemasonry.

Congratulations to student Dean in Year 11 who commenced his school based apprenticeship through the Head Start pathway program. Dean is undertaking a Certificate III in Plumbing. 

Congratulations to student Vasiliki in Year 12 who commenced her school based apprenticeship through the Head Start pathway program. Vikki is undertaking a Certificate III in Early Childhood and Education.

Well done Liam, Dean, and Vasiliki!

We look forward to supporting you through this journey.

If you would like information regarding the Head Start pathway program please contact Maria from the Department of Education on 0488 991 164 or maria.zagari@education.vic.gov.au

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Community Noticeboard

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If you hold a current Health Care or Pension card, please complete a CSEF form, and return it to the General Office with a copy of the card. The closing date for applications is Friday 23 June 2023.
CSEF is an amount of $225 which is given to the school, to use for children of Pension card or Health Care card holders. CSEF can only be used towards the cost of Camps, Sports and Excursions, without exception.
Please be advised that any unused CSEF rolls over for future school years.
If you have any queries, please contact the Middle Years Campus on 9407 9700 or the Senior Campus on 9404 8222. Alternatively you can email us at: mill.park.sc@education.vic.gov.au
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