Middle School

A Positive Start and Seizing Opportunity

It has been wonderful to see how well our Middle School students have settled into the year. Across all year levels, there has been a calm and positive start, with a strong sense of kindness, inclusion and support evident in classrooms and around the yard — something our whole community can be proud of.

We continue to reassure students that settling in looks different for everyone. If they are still finding their place or “their people,” that is completely okay. Our message is simple: keep showing up, keep being yourself, and trust that the right connections will come.

Recently, I have been encouraging students to think about seizing the opportunity, particularly when things do not go to plan. Whether it is a disappointing result, a friendship challenge, or a mistake, instead of asking “Why me?”, we are encouraging them to ask, “What can I learn from this?” Growth often comes from trying again, practising more, being brave, or taking responsibility. While it is easy to complain, it is far more powerful to improve.

Thank you to our students for their continued efforts in wearing the correct uniform, including hats when outdoors. A reminder that students without a hat will need to remain in shaded areas rather than active play spaces.

Thank you to our families for your ongoing support. It has been a positive start to the year, and we look forward to seeing our students continue to grow in both character and confidence throughout the term.

Parent/Teacher Interviews Tuesday 10 March 

Strong partnerships between home and school are vital in supporting each student’s growth academically, socially and emotionally. When we work together with shared purpose and open communication, students benefit enormously.

Our teachers are very much looking forward to meeting with parents and carers whether online or in person on Tuesday 10 March for Parent/Teacher Interviews. These conversations are an important opportunity to celebrate progress, discuss goals and strengthen the partnership that underpins a successful Middle School journey.

School Attendance Matters

Your child’s attendance is on or above 95%

They are likely to be a “Star Performer” as well as an excellent attendee. They will almost certainly achieve the best grades for their ability and have a real opportunity in further education and the world of work.

Your child’s attendance is 90 - 94%

“Green for go” for good attendance. They are likely to achieve grades that will give them real opportunities for continuing their studies and their future in the world of work.

Your child’s attendance is at 85 – 89%

“Amber, Take Care!” They will be missing up to 20 days each year, and this will make it difficult for them to achieve their best level educationally.

Your child’s attendance is 80 - 85%

“Red light – Be alert!” They are missing so much school that it will be very difficult for them to keep in touch with lessons or schoolwork.

Your child’s attendance is below 80%

“At Risk – immediate action needed!” They are missing so much time from school that it will be almost impossible for them to keep in touch with lessons or schoolwork.

Calendar Dates

Monday 9 March - Labour Day Public Holiday

Tuesday 10 March - Parent/Teacher Interviews 12pm - 7:30pm

11-23 March - NAPLAN TESTING WINDOW

Saturday 14 March - College Open Morning 9am – 12pm

23-25 March - Year 5 Sovereign Hill Camp (depart 8am, return Fri 3pm)

Friday 27 March - Years 5-12 House Athletics Carnival – The Oval

Tuesday 31 March - SEISA Swimming, Table tennis & Badminton Carnival MSAC

Thursday 2 April - Last Day Term 1 - 2:20pm finish

Ralph Arceo

Head of Middle School

SEISA Middle Years Leadership Day  

On Wednesday, 18 February, my fellow school leaders and I had the opportunity to attend the SEISA Leadership Day in Traralgon. It was an inspiring and valuable experience that brought student leaders together to learn, grow, and challenge ourselves.

Throughout the day, we participated in a range of workshops that helped us develop new leadership skills. These workshops encouraged us to step outside our comfort zones, think critically, and work together as a team. We were faced with challenges that tested our communication, problem-solving, and resilience. Each challenge reminded us that leadership isn’t always easy - but it is always worth it.

One message from the day really stood out to me: “Don’t take the easy way, take the RIGHT way.” This quote reminds us that being a leader means making responsible choices, even when they are difficult. It means setting a positive example and standing up for what is right.

The SEISA Leadership Day helped us grow not only as leaders but as individuals. We are excited to bring what we’ve learned back to our school community and continue striving to lead in the right way.

Ivy Addison 

Middle School Captain

The Middle School student leadership travelled about two hours to St Paul’s in Traralgon for a leadership day with several other schools, including St Paul’s Traralgon, St Paul’s Warragul, Gippsland Grammar, and Beaconhills College from both Pakenham and Berwick.

When we arrived, we had the chance to meet all the student leaders from the other schools. It was really interesting to see how different schools operate and the different ways students show leadership in their communities.

We rotated through classrooms and took part in fun activities, all run by teachers who also taught us about the key qualities of a good leader. By the end of the day, we had made some great connections, and it honestly felt like we were saying goodbye to new friends. It was a fun and valuable learning experience.

I would encourage any Year 7 students thinking about a leadership role next year to go for it, because opportunities like this are truly worth it.

Annabelle Fallu 

Middle School Captain