Welcome to Issue 8 of the College Newsletter! This includes: - Semester 1 Principal Report - Primary & Secondary Captain Report - Accessing Reports - ICAN Imagination Club - School Council Update - SRC Fundraising Update - Duty of Care Policy - What’s on @ The Lakes
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter
Term 2, Week 11
ISSUE 08 2025
Semester 1 Principal Report Accessing Reports Primary & Secondary Captain Report ICAN Imagination Club School Council Update SRC Fundraising Update
Click here to watch a slideshow
Image : Hall of Fame Performing Arts Showcase
PRINCIPAL REPORT
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
BILL PANAS COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
01 Principal Report
05 Compass Update
MID - YEAR REVIEW
06 School Council
Congratulations to all of our students for their outstanding efforts in learning, teamwork and collegiality over Term 2 . The Leadership Team at the College continues to be inspired by the way our students support one another — mentoring, leading activities, coaching sports, encouraging and motivating peers to do their best, and stepping up when needed so others don ’ t miss out. Most importantly, they do so with a positive, solution - focused mindset — a value that has become a hallmark of our College culture and vocabulary over the past three years.
08 Student Perspective
12 College Contributions
13 SRC Report
14 Sports Scoreboard
16 Primary Awards
18 Policy Spotlight
A special congratulations to our Primary Term 2 Award Winners . This is a tremendous achievement and a credit to both you and your families.
19 Social Scene
The Lakes South Morang College respectfully acknowledges that beneath the significant River Red Gums that feature across our school's landscape lay the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri - Willam people of the Kulin Nation.
20 What ’ s on @ The Lakes
22 Community Noticeboard
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COLLEGE REPORT
You exemplify the values and virtues that underpin our four key pillars and reflect the vibrant and aspirational culture we are building together. Our students continue to drive our cultural shift towards excellence in learning , and in turn, we are committed to continually improving our practice — through teacher professional learning, policy review, and strategic planning with our active School Council — all in the pursuit of improved facilities, learning environments and programs that bring out the best in every student.
clear — learning is our priority. While most students feel positively supported by peers and staff, we are closely reviewing learning practices, addressing barriers, and looking for exponential opportunities to enhance engagement and outcomes. What we do know from student responses to these questions is: students feel engaged in their studies; most have valuable peer support; and generally, students feel safe in their learning environments. The College has clear policies in place regarding leaning dispositions and student behaviour that reflect our College Values, high expectations and school pride.
ACADEMIC RIGOUR
Primary Attitudes to School Survey data remains very strong and reflects high levels of engagement and wellbeing across all areas. In Secondary, while we ’ ve seen a dip in Attitudes to School Survey data compared to previous years, this shift aligns with our move from broad student agency to a more directed learning model grounded in explicit teaching.
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Well done to our Year 10 – 12 students who have just completed their mid - year exams. We are immensely proud of their focus and perseverance. Our teachers have provided exceptional support during this rigorous period and continue to guide and inspire our senior students through high - quality teaching and assessment. This year, we ’ ve expanded our Learner Coach program and student leadership training opportunities. Timetabled sessions for feedback and reflection are enabling students to take ownership of their learning — reviewing progress, setting goals, and seeking support when needed. Our Discovery Interviews also provide valuable insight into the student experience, shaping how we continue to improve. The College captures student feedback through various tools and forums. Through the introduction of Clarify Ed , a real - time feedback tool, students can share quick reflections after each class. The program forms part of our instructional model for teaching, and the data is analysed regularly by teachers. This helps teachers refine their practice and keeps learning responsive and engaging. Our current focus is improving consistency and the timeliness of assessment across all learning areas — a key priority for Semester 2 . We are continually asking: What are our students telling us about their learning? Are they engaged? Over the past three years, our focus has remained
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We are proud to report significant progress in VCE outcomes:
Median VCE score increased from 24 (2023) to 30 (2024) — making us one of only three schools in the North - Eastern Melbourne Area (Whittlesea, Nillumbik, Darebin and Yarra) to reach this benchmark, and the highest performing school in the Whittlesea Region for Median Study Scores. Our VCE English results are particularly strong, with the proportion of students scoring above 30 growing significantly — a testament to the high expectations we share for performance, and a major triumph that underpins our level of student and staff expectation to performance at VCE level.
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Interest in our VIA program continues to grow, with Year 7 enrolments now capped . For 2025, we ’ ve already enrolled the top - performing students from Mill Park Primary and several other network schools. To date, 14 high achievers from our feeder Primary schools have secured a place in next year ’ s elite program. We are also proud of the expanding support made possible through $235,000 in Disability Inclusion Funding — providing targeted staffing, professional learning, and stronger inclusive practices across our College.
with complex support requirements.
Staff engagement and commitment remain exceptionally strong. Our Staff Opinion Survey data continues to improve, particularly in areas of Instructional Leadership, Collective Efficacy and Academic Emphasis. The College now ranks as one of the highest performing schools for teacher responsiveness to school life and expectations. Low staff turnover has allowed us to sustain programs that many other schools have had to pause due to workforce shortages. This consistency is a major contributor to our success.
HIGH EXPECTATIONS
SCHOOL PRIDE
We ’ ve implemented a more consistent staff code of conduct covering professional presentation, respectful communication (including surname use), and the transparent sharing of performance data to guide improvements — all underpinned by our Annual Improvement Plan. Each student now has an Individual Education and Pathway Plan , supported by continuous reporting and biannual Learner Review Meetings for students and their families, so that they have real - time information and ownership of learning progress. These meetings provide an important check - in on academic progress and social - emotional wellbeing. This year the College has seen an average family participation rate of 75% in Primary and 66% in Secondary — this is something that we can all work together on to improve. We encourage all families to attend and continue building strong active partnerships with us so that our students feel the support, safety net and guidance from adults throughout their schooling. A strong partnership between students, families, and the wider College community, reinforced by an active School Council advocates for school pride, continuous improvement, and high expectations. We are also pleased to highlight the strategic use of $288,970 in Equity Funding , supporting our most vulnerable students. These funds allow us to run smaller literacy and numeracy groups, increase specialist staffing, and meet the needs of students
We ’ ve invested more than $300,000 in facility upgrades , guided by our School Council . Projects completed this year include:
New carpet installations
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Air conditioning upgrades
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CCTV and security enhancements
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New lockers and wall partitions
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Fencing improvements
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Refreshed concrete pathways
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New Primary Campus basketball courts
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Digital learning continues to improve with new ICT upgrades and designated computer labs on both campuses, alongside Primary Campus SMART TVs and modern devices. Celebrating student success remains a top priority. Our College Awards Night , Graduation Ceremonies , and growing Alumni Network showcase our commitment to recognising achievement and building lasting connections.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COLLEGE REPORT
A POSITIVE CLIMATE FOR CHANGE
THANK YOU
We continue to see stronger family involvement across the College, evidenced through:
Thank you for helping us shape such a vibrant and positive College community. Your support — whether attending events, encouraging participation in school life, or promoting our ethos and values beyond the gates — makes all the difference. A heartfelt thank you to Ms Short , who has led with enthusiasm and excellence as Secondary Campus Principal this Term. She has stepped into the role with confidence and clarity, ensuring a smooth continuation of Ms Lee ’ s fantastic work, while Ms Lee has similarly transitioned into the Primary Campus Principal position during Mr Abney - Hastings ’ leave. We are fortunate to have such experienced leaders supporting our community, and there is no doubt, the College is in good hands with years of teacher experience that makes a difference to operations and effective practice. Wishing all of our students and families a safe, warm, and relaxing holiday break. We look forward to welcoming you back in a fortnight for the important second half of the school year.
Welcome BBQs, Colour Run, Mother ’ s and Father ’ s Day Breakfasts
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Performing Arts Showcases, College Production, and Athletics Carnivals
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Classroom volunteering, facilities support, and fundraising efforts
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We ’ ve also strengthened transition programs in key areas:
Kinder–Prep: Early tours, play - based visits, and access to our College grounds
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Years 5 – 7: Dedicated transition classes and increased Leadership engagement
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30 Preps are already enrolled for 2026 — well ahead of this time last year
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Excitingly, our new onsite Kinder is scheduled to open in 2026. This project is now entering the tender stage, with construction set to begin in the space currently occupied by the scout shed. A new facility for the scouts will be built next to the Secondary Gym. We ’ ve also transitioned smoothly from Sentral to Compass , which is now our primary platform for communication, payments, and parent/carer access to learning information.
Warm regards,
Mr Panas
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PRIMARY & SECONDARY CAMPUS PLEASE VIEW OUR CAMPUS HANDBOOKS
COMPASS UPDATE
ACCESSING LEARNING TASKS AND ACADEMIC REPORTS
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter SCHOOL COUNCIL
SCHOOL COUNCIL REPORT
AMANDA FARRELLY SCHOOL COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Dear Families,
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Endorsed a decision for our uniform supplier to continue ordering and selling the current uniform ‘ bottoms ’ (ie, the shorts and trackpants), but without our school logo, as part of the implementation of the Victorian Government ’ s recent uniform policy changes. Discussed another recent Victorian Government decision on new Principal powers to suspend/expel students for bullying behaviour outside of school. Mr Panas clarified the situations on how and when that policy can be applied. It was also interesting to hear from our staff reps on their perspective of this decision. Acknowledged drainage issues at the end of the rear pathway (leading from the top gate) on Primary and actioned for a temporary solution to be found, noting that this path will be impacted by the new Kindergarten construction in the near future.
Firstly, huge congratulations to everyone involved with our Semester 1 Performing Arts Showcase, Hall of Fame – A Celebration of Music Legends, this week. Everyone did an amazing and fabulous job. Similarly, to our bi - annual Production, the night not only showcases our school ’ s talented students, but there is also the intangible benefit that it brings both Campuses together as a united school and boosts pride, all of which align with the core areas of our school ’ s Strategic Plan. We are all really looking forward to the Semester 2 Performing Arts Showcase later this year, plus our star Production event, Freaky Friday, in August, with tickets going on sale next week. Our Secondary Campus has been buzzing with exams this week and last week. Best of luck to all of our students and I hope once they are over, everyone takes a moment to reward themselves during the school holidays, relax and recharge. Lastly, please don ’ t forget to put an order in our Fundraising Committee ’ s Pie Drive! Tony ’ s Pies of Essendon have a large variety of savoury pies, sweet pies, pasties, quiches and sausage rolls to order. Orders close on Tuesday 22 July , with delivery on Friday 25 July (week 1 of Term 3).
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Discussed the challenges facing schools with hosting school camps.
As always, if you have any issues, ideas, questions that you would like raised at our next Council meeting, or any other support, we are more than happy to hear from families so please feel free to send me an email to amanda.farrelly@education.vic.gov.au. Council meets twice per Term on a Tuesday at 5:30pm and visitors and observers are always welcome!
Our most recent School Council was another very productive meeting. Key highlights are:
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Endorsed sending a letter to the Victorian Government from School Council, on behalf of the parent/carer community, advocating to reverse their decision to delay funding contribution increases to Victorian Government schools until 2031. Heard from our Secondary Captains and Year 7 - 12 Term highlights. Our Captains also raised with us their top four Secondary campus issues, on behalf of students, for School Council to consider. Reviewed the recent Education Week Open Morning on Primary and how it could be improved for next year.
Enjoy the July break and hope to see everyone again in Term 3,
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Amanda Farrelly School Council President
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The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter STUDENT PERSPECTIVE
PRIMARY REFLECTION KENZI, J E RUSHA, MANEEL & LACHLAN YEAR 6 CAPTAINS
Term 2 has been a long, busy, and exciting one! As your Primary College Captains - Kenzi, Jurusha, Maneel, and Lachlan - we ’ ve loved seeing all the incredible learning, events, and memories being made across our school. There ’ s been so much happening, and it ’ s been awesome to be part of it all. The Preps have been absolutely loving their buddy sessions with the Year 4 students. It ’ s been so special watching them build connections, learn new things, and have fun with their big buddies. Those friendships are something really special. The Year 1 students have been working hard on their towns, and if you ’ ve walked through Learning Street lately, you ’ ll know it ’ s starting to look like a mini city! Their creativity and teamwork have been amazing. Year 2 had a great time visiting Westgarth Town , learning all about history in a hands - on way. They ’ ve also been participating in the URSTRONG program, a fantastic program that helps students build and maintain strong friendships, manage conflict, and develop resilience. It ’ s been a powerful and fun way to grow together as a team. Year 3 went on an exciting Mini Beasts incursion , where they got to see and interact with some amazing Australian animals. We heard that Ms C and Ms G had a great time, especially with the snakes slithering around!
Year 4 also took part in the URSTRONG incursion , and they had such a great time. The workshops gave them valuable tools and language to navigate friendships and build strong connections. It ’ s been great seeing students using these skills every day. A big highlight for the Year 5/6 students was definitely camp at Forest Edge ! From the awesome activities to the delicious food, it was an experience we won ’ t forget anytime soon. We built stronger friendships, challenged ourselves, and had so much fun along the way. We ’ ve also been lucky to get some amazing new picnic benches across the school, which have been a hit during break times, they ’ ve created more spots to relax, chat, and enjoy being outside. Assemblies have been packed with action this term too! As captains, we ’ ve loved developing our leadership skills through speaking, organising, and working with staff and students. It ’ s been a great way to grow and learn.
Looking ahead, we ’ re super excited for a shorter but still very busy Term 3 — just 9 weeks !
Year 1, 2, and 3 students are looking forward to starting swimming .
Year 3/4 students are gearing up for camp , which is sure to be full of fun and adventure.
And Year 5/6 students can ’ t wait to get back into 5/6 Sport !
Thank you to all our teachers and students for making Term 2 so special. Let ’ s keep working hard, supporting one another, and making the most of every opportunity.
Here ’ s to an awesome Term 3 ahead!
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter STUDENT PERSPECTIVE
SECONDARY REFLECTION ANHAD, AIDEN, ZAF & HASTI SECONDARY CAPTAINS
We have had a fantastic term, full of learning, assessment and amazing events. We were fortunate enough to present a report to School Council on June 17 and thought that we would share it with the wider school community. Have a great holiday break everyone! Looking forward to seeing you all back, fresh in Term 3
We are here this evening to report to you on what has been an incredible Term 2 on the Secondary Campus. We ’ ll start with our Year 7 Camp, the Year 7’ s really enjoyed their camp down to Phillip Island it was a great bonding experience for them all and a great chance to build a relationship with our Year 10 Peer Support Team who also attended. The Year 7’ s have also been busy adjusting to Secondary Schooling and have particularly enjoyed working on their SOMA cube projects in maths. The Year 8’ s have really spent this Term settling in to their schooling and by all reports have had a settled and focused Term 2. The Year 8’ s have participated in a few activities this Term including an excursion to Melbourne Museum where they explored the Melbourne Story and First People ’ s exhibitions. The Year 8 girls also had the opportunity to participate in the “ She - Maps ” project where they got to program and fly drones, the aim of the program is to encourage more young women into the STEM field. The Year 9’ s have spent this term really focussing in on their assessments. Just this week the Year 9’ s had an assembly to discuss subject selection for next year,
an important step as a number of them will be considering early entry VCE or VET placements. The Year 10 students are gearing up for their first round of really formal exams that will start tomorrow morning. They have also been busily preparing for their upcoming Work Experience, they have certainly been busy calling and emailing a number of potential employers and filling out all the required paperwork. This week the Year 10’ s also were given information about 2026 subject selection. This is a really important decision for lots of them as they consider VCE, VM, VPC and VET options. Our Year 11’ s and 12’ s have had a busy term as well. Year 11 Drama students attended a performance of Beetlejuice and completed a performance analysis SAC based on it. Chemistry students had the privilege to attend VSECC to complete a Contamination Analysis, this was a great opportunity to use industry standard chemistry machinery. VCE - VM Personal Development Classes have been working hard on their community projects including raising money for a number of charities by running sausage sizzles and dunking the teachers with ice cold water.
We are currently in the middle of mid - year exams, most of us here just completed the GAT today and even though our mid - year exams can be stressful and we have been busy preparing for these, we believe that they will prepare us for the stresses of exams at the end of the year. We are all looking forward to the end of exams and the switch of Units where we ’ ll be able to explore new topics in our classes.
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Our ‘ Hall of Fame ’ Performing Arts showcase is happening this Tuesday at PRACC Interschool Basketball is the sport of choice next term, try outs for this will take place next week A group of Year 9 & 10 students will be going on a tour to Peter Lalor early next Term to explore their VET programs And of course, the big one, our production of Freaky Friday on August 18 & 19 with intensive rehearsals in the week before. We hope to perform in front of sell - out crowds!
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We had a number of students from different year levels participate in Interschool Sport
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Soccer & Netball this Term, they all represented the College with pride.
Production rehearsals are in full swing and with over 100 students participating in different forms they have certainly been busy!
We have some issues that we have been asked by our peers to raise at School Council for consideration and future thought:
As a School Captain team this term we have:
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A number of students have raised concerns about the current state of our undercover basketball court and drink taps on the Secondary Campus, we are hoping that school council could consider some upgrades and maintenance. We are particularly concerned about over - crowding on the basketball court and risks of injuries. We also have a number of students have raised concerns about our current school jacket, some of the complaints are that they are not very warm or waterproof. We are asking if we as a student leadership can investigate some new school jacket alternatives and present a proposal to school council at some stage in Term 3 for consideration.
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Sent out surveys for feedback on a proposed Formal
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Started to set up a “ suggestion box ” survey.
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Presented to Year 5’ s & 6’ s at Morang South Primary School on expectations for Secondary School, while spruiking our school in the process!
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There are a number of upcoming events that we ’ d like to share with you:
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Year 9 City Experience in the last week of Term 3, a great opportunity for our Year 9’ s to explore the city and build their independence Year 10 Work Experience will also take place in the last week of term 3, as mentioned earlier the Year 10’ s are all currently in the process of organising their placements
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Thanks for allowing us to share with you tonight, we look forward to presenting again to you soon.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COLLEGE CONNECTIONS
ICAN IMAGINATION CLUB Throughout Term 2, selected students from Years 3 to 6 participated in ICAN ’ s Imagination Club program. Imagination Club is a group mentoring and social skills program designed to empower learners to have an “ I CAN ” attitude and inspire their peers with their big imaginations.
Over eight weekly sessions, students worked with ICAN ’ s facilitators and the Primary Campus Youth Worker to develop their skills in modules covering topics such as: Teamwork (belonging and connection), Personal Strengths (motivation and goal setting), Communication (active listening, networking, and public speaking skills), and Planning (organisation skills). Students completed surveys at the beginning and end of the program. Data from The Lakes demonstrated that participating students perceived improvements in their: openness to trying new things, self - esteem, relaxation
strategies and communication skills. It was incredible to see students who were nervous about public speaking build their self - esteem and end up presenting to the group on topics they were passionate about. The program ended with a group celebration to acknowledge the awesome brains, attitudes, and ideas we were able to share throughout the program. Well done to all the participating students – we are proud of all the work you have done to inspire each other with your awesome imaginations!
THE LAKES SOUTH MORANG COLLEGE: CHANGES AMONG MENTEES
SRC REPORT
FUNDRAISING REPORT
Wow, Term 2 has been super busy and exciting for our SRC team! We kicked off the term with the Winter Woolies fundraiser, and it was awesome, we raised over $420 for The Lakes! Thanks so much to everyone who donated and got involved. With the money we raised (and some extra funds), we ’ ve been able to make some really cool purchases that are already making a difference at school. Here ’ s what we ’ ve done so far:
We bought 8 pinewood picnic benches for the Primary Campus so students have more places to hang out and enjoy their breaks.
Every classroom now has over 150 mini whiteboards , along with markers and erasers, so each student can have their own whiteboard to use during lessons. This has made learning a lot more interactive!
We ’ ve also got some awesome flexible seating like balance cushions and lots of fidget toys to help students focus and feel comfortable in class.
For sports, we purchased soccer balls, basket- balls, netballs, skipping ropes, tennis balls, and whistles for each classroom. And a big one, we finally got soccer nets for the Primary soccer oval ! This has been on our wish list for ages, and it ’ s so great to see it happen. But now, we need your help! We want to hear your ideas for our next fundraiser and what we should buy next. What do you think The Lakes needs? What would help make our school an even better place? Please talk to your SRC team members or find Ms Hayton on the Primary Campus to share your ide- as. We ’ re all ears and can ’ t wait to hear what you come up with! Thanks again for all your support this term. Let ’ s keep working together to make our school more amazing!
— Your SRC Team
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter SPORT SCOREBOARD
SECONDARY INTERSCHOOL SPORTS TERM 2 SPORT SUCCESS!
Term 2 was a fantastic celebration of sport, teamwork and school spirit as our students proudly represented our school across a number of interschool sporting events. With teams competing in Year 7, Year 8 and Intermediate Girls Netball , Year 7 and Intermediate Boys Soccer , and the District Interschool Athletics Carnival , it was an action - packed and inspiring term for our school community. Each and every student gave their best on the day, displaying outstanding dedication, resilience and sportsmanship. Whether it was chasing down a goal on the soccer field, fighting for possession on the netball court, or sprinting down the track, our students truly lived out our school values of throughout all competitions. A special highlight came from the District Athletics Carnival , where a number of our students won their individual events – a huge achievement! These students will now move on to the next round of competition and we can ’ t wait to see how they go. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the dedicated staff who made these opportunities possible. A massive thank you to Ms Duggan for her time and energy in coaching all of our netball teams . Your support and leadership were outstanding. Thank you also to Ms Spence, Ms Hislop and Ms Gessas , whose behind - the - scenes assistance was invaluable in helping the teams get onto the court and perform at their best. Our boys ’ soccer teams were also able to compete thanks to the generous efforts of Mr Colins, Ms MacGreggor and Mr Sicurella , who supported and supervised our players on the day. Without the commitment and support of staff like you, our interschool sports program simply wouldn ’ t be possible. A huge well done to all students who took part this Term – you did yourselves and your school proud. We look forward to more success and great memories in Term 3!
PRIMARY INTERSCHOOL SPORTS
During the term our Primary students had plenty of opportunities to participate and represent the school in a variety of interschool sports.
Firstly, we had our Friday morning year 5/6 sports, where the students competed in either handball, AFL or netball. All our teams put in an awesome effort each week playing against many larger schools in our district. It ’ s been great to see so many students wanting to represent the school at this level. We also had Cross Country that was held at Bundoora Park. Here students ran either the 2km race or the 3km race. We had 2 students advance to the next round (division), Miah MT in Year 6 who finished 11th, and Axel T from Year 5 who finished second in their age groups.
Axel T, went on to make it through division and onto the region finals where he placed 27th overall. A fantastic effort to make it that far! The 5/6’ s also got to enjoy an interschool Tee ball round robin event, where students practised and improved on game strategy and skills throughout the day.
Finally, our year 3/4 students got a taste of interschool sport, some for the first time, in Hooptime! Hooptime is a basketball competition and this year we entered 4 teams consisting of students who hadn ’ t played basketball at a competitive level before. Overall, students have done a fantastic job representing our school, and hopefully will continue to strive to be a part of our interschool sports program.
PRIMARY SWIMMING Next Term our King Swim program will commence on Tuesdays, beginning WEEK 1, information about what to bring will be sent out to families in the last week of Term 2. Thanks to all families who responded and returned paperwork in a timely manner.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter PRIMARY END OF TERM AWARDS
LEARNER OF THE TERM AWARDS
PREP:
Making consistent effort to learn her letter / sound relationships to help her decode words and sentences.
Prep A
Porsha G
For making a great effort to apply her letter sound knowledge to independently decode words and write sentences.
Prep B
Dinethmi
YEAR ONE:
For making significant improvements in his ability to make positive behavior choices.
1A
Levi B
1B
Justin J
For significant improvement in approaching academic challenges.
YEAR TWO:
For being a hardworking and dedicated student who takes great pride in her learning and completes every task with care. She shows our school values each day through her respectful attitude, positive mindset, and commitment For consistently completing her work to a high standard, demonstrating excellent effort and setting an example to her peers. For showing outstanding dedication and self - motivation in his learning. William always goes above and beyond, takes pride in his work, and gives his best in everything he does. Well done!
2A
Emily K
2B
Ana T
2C
William P
YEAR THREE:
For showing care in planning, editing, and refining her work and going above expectations to add creativity and detail, particularly in writing. For showing a positive attitude towards learning, displaying all The Lakes values. We are so proud of you! Well done Remi.
3A
Evelyn M
3B
Remi T
YEAR FOUR:
For showing dedication, focus and a positive attitude toward her work. It is wonderful to see her confidence grow as she approaches new learning tasks. Well done, Sofia! For being an all - rounder superstar. Olivia is kind, hardworking, and a fabulous friend. She ’ s had an amazing, positive, and successful Term 2! Well done, Olivia! For showing fantastic growth in confidence and believing in his abilities. Isaac approaches each task with determination and always gives his best effort to complete his work. Keep up the great attitude and hard work—well
4A
Sofia T
4B
Olivia S
4C
Isaac Marsh
YEAR FIVE:
Katelyn consistently demonstrates a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a genuine love of learning. She is a role model to her peers and a deserving Learner of the Term. Well done! For making a great effort to seek new learning opportunities and take on teacher feedback with a positive attitude. For demonstrating excellent effort and producing a well - researched and thoughtfully written information report.
5A
Katelyn B
5B
Ryan L
5C
Pranadh R
YEAR SIX:
For consistent outstanding achievement across all areas of the curriculum and for demonstrating strong leadership skills.
6A
Addison M
6B
Sophia C
For taking ownership of her learning and setting high standards for herself.
CITIZENSHIP AWARDS
Respect
Learning
Teamwork
Leadership
Ivan S
Nugah K
Jovan J
Prep
Penny F - G
Rafael G
Yonal P
Harper B
Akira D
Year One
Colin Y
Erina S
Mia M
Vedansh R
Year Two
Chelsea J
Ray T
Stella V
Nathan N
Year Three
Year Four
Layal B
Leeban F
Xander M
Ria M
Avery Joy E
Amani B
Axel T
Aubrey H
Year Five
Kenzi E
Jerusha L
Kian S
Connor P
Year Six
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter POLICY SPOTLIGHT
DUTY OF CARE
http://www.thelakes.edu.au/uploads/8/3/9/0/83901006/duty_of_care_policy_2022.pdf
“ Duty of care ” is a legal obligation that requires schools to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk of reasonably foreseeable harm, which can include personal injury (physical or psychological) or damage to property. The reasonable steps that our school may decide to take in response to a potential risk or hazard will depend on the circumstances of the risk.
Our school has developed policies and procedures to manage common risks in the school environment, including:
Yard duty and Supervision
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Bullying Prevention
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Camps and Excursions
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First Aid
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Tree Maintenance
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Grounds Maintenance
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Personal Property
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Child Safe Standards
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• External Providers (including RTOS delivering VET/VCAL)
Emergency Management
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Volunteers
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Visitors
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Working with Children and Suitability Checks
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Mandatory Reporting
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Occupational Health and Safety
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School staff, parents, carers and students are encouraged to speak to the principal to raise any concerns about risks or hazards at our school, or our duty of care obligations.
Policies are available to all families via our website http://www.thelakes.edu.au/policies -- reports.html
SOCIAL SCENE
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter WHAT ’ S ON @ THE LAKES
Breakfast Club on Primary Campus Every Wednesday 8.15am - 8.45am (Except for the first week and last week of the term)
JULY:
WEEK 1
Monday 21st
Term 3 Commences
Tuesday 22nd
Year 1, 2, 3 Swimming
Thursday 24th
Year 7 Homework Club
Friday 25th
Distribution of Pie Drive orders
WEEK 2
Primary Assembly 9.15am in Gym
Monday 28th
Tuesday 29th
Year 1, 2, 3 Swimming
Wednesday 30th
Year 1 Excursion
School Readiness Program 2.30pm on Primary
Thursday 31st
Year 7 Homework Club
Friday 1st
Year 5/6 Interschool Sport
Book Now for Primary or Secondary Tours on
9404 9000
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
OFFICE HOURS AT THE LAKES
BELONGINGS, AMBULANCE & INSURANCE
Parents/carers are welcome in our office areas when they are making payments, bringing a child in late or picking up a sick child from sick bay.
Private property brought to school by students, staff or visitors is not insured and the Department of Education does not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage. Parents and carers are reminded that the Department of Education does not provide personal accident insurance or ambulance cover for students. Parents and carers of students who do not have student accident insurance/ ambulance cover are responsible for paying the cost of medical treatment for injured students, including the cost of ambulance attendance/transport and any other transport costs.
Students are not to use these areas before school or after school.
The Lakes South Morang College ’ s grounds are supervised by College staff from 8:45am until 3:15 (Secondary Campus), or 3:30pm (Primary Campus). Outside of these hours, College staff will not be available to supervise students. If a student is not collected before supervision finishes at the end of the day, the Principal or nominee staff member will consider whether it is appropriate to:
CSEF (CAMPS, SPORTS & EXCURSIONS FUND)
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attempt to contact the parents/carers
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attempt to contact the emergency contacts
The Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund helps eligible families to cover the costs of school trips, camps, and sporting activities. If you have a valid means - tested concession card, such as a Veterans Affairs Gold Card, Centrelink Health Care Card, or Pensioner Concession Card, or are a temporary foster parent, you may be eligible. There is also a special consideration category for asylum seeker and refugee families. Payment amounts this year are $150.00 for eligible primary school students and $250.00 for eligible secondary school students. Payments are made direct to the school to use towards expenses relating to camps, excursions, and sporting activities for the benefit of your child. Prep and Year 7 government school students who are CSEF recipients are also eligible for a uniform voucher. Schools are required to make applications on behalf of parents, so please register your interest at the school. It is important that funding made available in 2025 supports students to participate in school trips, camps, and sporting activities this year rather than being held for future years. This funding can also be used in conjunction with any funding accrued from previous years. If you applied for CSEF through our school last year, you do not need to complete an application form this year, unless there has been a change in your family circumstances. If you would like to apply for the first time, please contact the College on 9404 9000 and ask for an application form. You can also download the form, and find out more about the program and eligibility, on the Department of Education and Training ’ s Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund web page. Check with the school office if you are unsure, and please return completed forms to the school office as soon as possible.
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place the student in an out of school hours care program (Primary Campus only)
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contact Victoria Police and/or Child Protection to arrange for the supervision, care and protection of the student.
Please also be aware that both the Primary and Secondary Campus offices will close at 4:00 pm each day.
Please support us in making sure all students are safe.
ATTENDANCE - EVERY DAY COUNTS If you are aware that your child will not be attending school due to illness or other circumstances, please contact either office to ensure our attendance records are accurate.
Ways of communicating absences include:
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Placing a future Absence Request through the Compass Education Portal;
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Calling the office;
As required by the Department of Education, all schools must notify parents/carers informing that their child is absent. Please inform the office of absences before 10am each morning.
Please call 9404 9000 if you have a service or upcoming event you would like to promote through our Newsletter.
PHOTOGRAPHING, RECORDING AND FILMING CONSENT
thelakes.edu.au/uploads/8/3/9/0/83901006/photographing_filming___recording_of_students_policy_2024.pdf
The Photographing, Filming and Recording Students Consent Form is provided by The Lakes South Morang College at enrolment. Recent Departmental changes to this policy mean that this now only has to be completed once during your child ’ s educational journey at The Lakes. As a component of our transition to Compass, all families across the College will be sent a message on Compass or contacted by a member of staff in regards to Permission to Publish for your child provided at enrolment. If at any time parents/carers wish to give or withdraw their consent, they can by contacting the College or completing the form below.
To update or make changes to your Photographing, Filming and Recording consent, please download and complete this form before returning to the front office.
SCHOOL SAVINGS BONUS (SSB)
Department of Education will email you twice:
In Term 4, 2024 families with a child enrolled in Government schools from Prep to Year 12 in 2025 will have receive the one - off $400 School Saving Bonus. The $400 School Saving Bonus provides families with support for education - related costs, such as school activities and/or school uniforms and textbooks. The School Saving Bonus is not available for full fee international students, home schooled students, TAFE students and students attending kindergarten in 2025.
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October to verify you email address
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November, providing details on how you can access the $400 bonus.
Please check your junk email regularly to make sure you do not miss an important email. To learn more about the SSB please see attached sheet for government school parents and carers or visit https://www.vic.gov.au/school - saving - bonus
Actions for parents and carers
Parents and carers of children who meet the School Saving Bonus eligibility above are required to do the following by Friday 18 October 2024:
Click here for more information.
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Complete enrolment If your child, or children are changing government school for Term 1 2025, or starting Prep or Year 7 in 2025, please complete enrolment. For more information, read about Enrolling in School. Check your contact information Ensure your contact information is up to date with your school. You can check this information by contacting your school directly.
Your feedback is valued. Please use the following link to provide our College Council and Leadership Team with feedback to help make The Lakes a positive learning community for all.
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THE LAKES COMMUNITY FEEDBACK
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
CANTEEN ORDERS This year the school canteen is offering lunch orders through the Flexischools app.
Scan the code to setup an account and select The Lakes South Morang College. Orders need to be in by 9am on the day.
Follow the steps below to setup an account and select The Lakes South Morang College.
CAMP AUSTRALIA
COLLEGE CONTRIBUTIONS
SUPPORT OUR SCHOOL – EVERY CONTRIBUTION COUNTS! If you haven ’ t yet paid this year ’ s voluntary or elective levies, we kindly ask you to reconsider.
WHY IT MATTERS
High performing schools are built on one key strength - the parent/carer - school partnership. Our College proudly offers some of the lowest levies in the state—heavily subsidised to make education accessible for all. But to maintain and improve the quality of your child ’ s experience, your contribution makes a real difference and underpins our pillar to enhance school pride at every opportunity.
WHAT YOUR SUPPORT HAS HELPED FUND
Primary Campus
Secondary Campus
Across Both Campuses
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A brand new synthetic oval
Gym and classroom painting
Upgraded air conditioning in classrooms
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Refurbished student toilets
New bin lifters and goal posts
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Enhanced security systems
• Smart TVs with faster connectivity in classrooms
• New exam centre and computer lab
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New accessibility ramps
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A vibrant new art room
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Internal painting and lighting upgrades
• Significant technology upgrades
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Communication system improvements, including a move to Compass
THE BIGGER PICTURE
PAYING YOUR LEVIES
Smaller Class Sizes: We continue to prioritise smaller class sizes to ensure more personalised learning and better outcomes. Enrichment & Leadership Opportunities: From camps to student leadership programs, we ’ ve maintained a wide range of offerings that many other schools have had to scale back.
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Visit your Compass Portal
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Click on Payments Centre
30%
Click on 2025 Curriculum Contributions
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LOOKING AHEAD
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Opening of an onsite Kindergarten in 2026
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Planned refurbishment of the Technology Centre on the Secondary campus
Your support helps us deliver on our commitment to high standards and school pride. If you ’ re in a position to contribute, please support our College community as we head into the second half of the year.
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Ongoing transition to energy - efficient LED lighting
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
Thank you again for your school ’ s wonderful participation in the PRACC foyer art display at the City of Whittlesea Community Festival. Your students' creativity helped bring the space to life and was admired by hundreds of visitors. As a gesture of appreciation, we ’ d love to invite your students, families, and staff to enjoy Fritz – a school holiday theatre performance filled with fun, laughter, and heart. The show is suitable for children aged 4 to 12 and will be staged at the Yan Yean Theatre this July.
About the Show Step into the charming and comical universe of FRITZ, an eccentric and lovable magician rabbit. Witness the unfolding of a ‘ one - rabbit show ’ as FRITZ earnestly strives to recreate the mesmerizing magic tricks of their suddenly vanished Magician Master, Fronzo.
Show: Fritz Date: Thursday, 10 July 2025 Time: 11.00am Venue: Yan Yean Theatre, PRACC (Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre) Tickets: $16 (no booking fee – use code FRITZFUN at checkout) Bookings: www.pracc.com.au/Whats - On/All - Events/Fritz
Magic, mayhem, and many things gone wrong, can FRITZ somehow save the day and the show?
FRITZ is a nonstop, high - energy 50 - minute roller coaster ride of the ridiculous. Chock full of slapstick comedy, object puppetry and clowning, this heart - warming story is entertainment from start to finish for the whole family.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
To thrive, children need a safe and supportive environment at school, at home and in the broader community; no exceptions. At The Lakes South Morang College, we believe meeting the physical and emotional needs of our students is paramount in laying the foundations for a fulfilling future. We pledge to provide an environment that has zero tolerance to child abuse and will strive to work in partnership with our parents/carers and community members to keep our students safe every day, in every way.
The Lakes South Morang College Child Safety Statement
PRIMARY CAMPUS: Telephone: 9404 9000 275 Gordons Road South Morang 3752 SECONDARY CAMPUS: Telephone: 9404 9000 80 Jardier Terrace South Morang 3752 ABN 52 938 171 499 PO Box 207 South Morang 3752 lakes.south.morang.co@education.vic.gov.au
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