The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter
Term 4, Week 4
ISSUE 14 2025
College Report Peer Mediator Reflections Science of Learning in Math Peer Coaching in VIA Compass Updates What ’ s on @ The Lakes
Image : New Kinder being built on Primary Campus
COLLEGE REPORT
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
SCOTT MCLEAN PRIMARY TEACHING & LEARNING
01 College Report
03 School Council
04 Student Perspective
As Term 4 unfolds, our school community is buzzing with celebration, reflection, and preparation. From heartfelt farewells to forward - looking initiatives, this season marks a pivotal moment for students and staff alike.
06 Student Perspective
08 Curriculum
FAREWELL TO YEAR 12: A CELEBRATION OF GROWTH & GRATITUDE
10 College Connections
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. On Monday 20th October, our Year 12 students attended their final day of classes—an emotional milestone marking the end of their secondary schooling journey. The following morning, Tuesday 21st October, they were honoured with a celebratory breakfast, followed by a symbolic walk down Learning Street. Lined with a student Guard of Honour, this tradition
12 Social Scene
13 Policy Spotlight
14 Compass Update
16 What ’ s on @ The Lakes
18 Community Noticeboard
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COLLEGE REPORT
STEP-UP PROGRAM: LAUNCHING INTO 2026
allowed younger students and staff to applaud the achievements and resilience of our graduating cohort.
Following the conclusion of exams, Secondary students will transition into our Step - Up Program— a vital initiative that marks the beginning of their 2026 studies. This program introduces learners to new subjects, teachers, and expectations, providing a valuable head start before the new academic year. Attendance is compulsory, and the work completed during Step - Up will form the foundation for Term 1 next year. Students will also receive holiday homework designed to reinforce their learning and ensure a smooth return to study in 2026. We encourage all students to engage fully with this opportunity and embrace the chance to begin the next chapter of their education with confidence.
This farewell was more than a send - off—it was a moment to reflect on the friendships, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped these students over the years. As they now turn their focus to final exams, we extend our warmest wishes for success and fulfillment in the futures they will create.
EXAMINATIONS: A TIME TO SHINE
Year 12 exams commence on Tuesday 28th October with English and conclude on Wednesday 19th November with VET Engineering. These assessments represent the culmination of years of learning, and we encourage all students to approach them with confidence, determination, and self - belief. Meanwhile, our Year 7 – 11 students will begin their own examination period starting Monday 17th November. Year 11 students will lead the way, with exams continuing through to Thursday 4th December, when our Year 9 students will complete their final assessments. We commend all students for their hard work and preparation and remind them that these exams are stepping stones toward their future goals.
2026 BOOKLISTS: TOOLS FOR SUCCESS
Secondary booklists for 2026 have now been published, and families are encouraged to review them carefully. Among the new inclusions is a USB - C Power Bank for Student Notebooks. While optional, these power banks are highly recommended to ensure devices remain charged throughout the school day, as students are not permitted to use power outlets at school. Another important addition is the use of ring binders across all subjects. These will support students in maintaining organised notes and resources, fostering better study habits and easier revision. We believe these tools will contribute to a more efficient and productive learning experience.
WORLD TEACHERS ’ DAY: HONOURING DEDICATION AND IMPACT
Next Friday, 31st October, we will be celebrating World Teachers ’ Day—a cherished opportunity to recognise the incredible work our educators do each day. Whether guiding students through complex concepts, nurturing curiosity, or offering a listening ear, our teachers are the heart of our learning community. We invite students and families to join us in expressing gratitude to our teaching staff. A simple thank you, a note of appreciation, or a shared memory can go a long way in acknowledging the profound impact teachers have on shaping lives.
YEAR 5/6 VIA PROGRAM FOR 2026
We ’ re excited to announce the launch of our new Year 5/6 VIA (High - Abilities) Program, commencing in 2026. Over 60 students recently completed the AGAT testing, and formal offers have now been sent to eligible Year 4 and 5 students. Congratulations to all who aspired to gain a place — your commitment to learning and excellence is truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing our 2026 VIA cohort flourish as they engage in this innovative and challenging program.
KINDERGARTEN DEVELOPMENT PROGRESS
REMINDER – STUDENT-FREE DAY
There has been exciting and significant progress on the new Kindergarten facility along Lakes Boulevard. This state - of - the - art early learning space will open in 2026, providing a much - needed addition to our educational precinct. The new facility will strengthen the learning journey from early years through to Year 12, right here in our community. BUILDING INDEPENDENCE – YEAR 1 DINNER & YEAR 2 SLEEPOVER Our upcoming Year 1 Dinner and Year 2 Sleepover mark an important milestone in developing independence and fostering strong school and peer connections. These much - anticipated events are a wonderful way for students to build confidence and create lasting memories with their friends and teachers.
Families are reminded that Monday, November 3rd is a student - free day, except for students sitting the VCE Biology and General Mathematics examinations. We wish our senior students the very best as they continue their exams and approach the end of their VCE journey.
LOOKING AHEAD
As we approach the final weeks of Term 4, we are reminded of the strength, spirit, and ambition that define our school community. Whether you are a Year 12 student preparing to take your next big step, a younger learner building toward future goals, or a teacher guiding the way—this is a time to celebrate progress and embrace possibility.
We thank all families for their continued support and partnership, and we look forward to finishing the year with pride, purpose, and positivity.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter SCHOOL COUNCIL
SCHOOL COUNCIL REPORT
AMANDA FARRELLY SCHOOL COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Hello Lakes families,
In other news, at School Council ’ s most recent meeting on 21 October, we:
A huge congratulations to our Year 12 students on completing their final week of formal classes! This is a significant milestone, and we ’ re incredibly proud of all they ’ ve achieved throughout their schooling journey. We also extend our thanks to the parents and carers who have supported them every step of the way. Your encouragement and guidance have played a vital role in helping them reach this point. As our students prepare for the next chapter—whether that ’ s sitting exams for an ATAR, pursuing further education or training, or stepping into the workforce—we wish them every success. No matter the path they choose, we know they ’ ll carry the skills and resilience they ’ ve developed into the future. Best of luck as well to our Year 11 students who are beginning their exams! A huge congratulations to everyone involved in last week ’ s Women in Music showcase—our second Performing Arts night of the year. The event was a resounding success, thanks to the incredible talent, dedication, and teamwork of our students and staff. You all did a fantastic job! Much like our biannual Production, this showcase not only highlighted the artistic strengths of our students, but also fostered a strong sense of unity across both Campuses. Events like these play a vital role in building school pride and community spirit—key pillars of our College ’ s Strategic Plan. In fundraising news, The Lakes Fundraising team are excited to announce that preparations for our 2026 Welcome BBQ are underway —and we would love to feature the incredible businesses within our school community. If you're a parent/carer or family member who runs a business—whether it's delicious food, engaging activities, or beautiful handmade crafts—we want to support you and share your work with our wider community. We ’ re particularly interested in partnering with businesses that offer:
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Endorsed Curriculum Charges for 2026;
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Reviewed the results of the recent Parent/Carer Opinion Survey and were pleased that feedback was overwhelmingly positive across all areas. Areas identified for improvement was parent/carer–teacher communication and a greater understanding of how students are assessed, which received less favourable responses. School Council and Leadership would greatly value further input from parents/ carers on how we can improve parent/carer - teacher communication moving forward. Noted the Victorian Government ’ s recent announcement to changes to digital devices in Primary schools, noting that our plans for BYOD laptops in Years 5 & 6 will not be affected in 2026. Endorsed projects to come out of the School Council Initiative funding budget in 2026. As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing our facilities, several projects are planned for 2026. These include:
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Improving security in general office areas across both Campuses.
Completing re - carpeting in administration areas.
Adding a new meeting/interview room on the Primary Campus.
Upgrading drinking taps at both sites.
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Upgrading the hockey pitch on the Secondary Campus.
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Endorsed a change to the College ’ s Excursion Policy, being that every activity, excursion or camp must be linked to assessment and reporting and linked to a learning outcome.
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Endorsed expenditure for the 2026 Welcome BBQ.
Food services and tasty treats
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Endorsed 2026 Curriculum Days.
Fun, interactive activities for all ages
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Endorsed our agreement with Camp Australia to provide before and after - school care onsite at our school for another three years.
Craft sellers with handmade goods
Entertainment that brings people together
As always, if you have any issues, ideas or questions that you would like raised at our next Council meeting,
This is a fantastic opportunity to connect, promote your business, and be part of a day that celebrates the spirit of our school community. If your business aligns, we would love to hear from you!
or any other support, please feel free to send me an email to amanda.farrelly@education.vic.gov.au. Our last meeting for 2025 will be on Tuesday 18 November. Visitors and observers are always welcome!
Amanda Farrelly School Council President
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter STUDENT PERSPECTIVE
PRIMARY REFLECTION FLETCHER, ELOISE, KIAN & JONAH YEAR 6 PEER MEDIATORS
This year, being a Peer Mediator has been a really rewarding experience. Our role has been all about helping students across the school, from Prep all the way to Year 6, to feel safe, supported, and included during recess and lunch. Every day, you could find Peer Mediators out in the yard, wearing our bright vests, ready to help anyone who needed support. One of the main parts of our job has been helping students solve small problems that come up in the yard. These might include friendship issues, disagreements about game rules, or reminding others about our Lakes Values: Respect, Learning, Teamwork and Leadership. Sometimes, it ’ s just about listening and helping others talk it out calmly. We always try to make sure everyone feels heard and treated fairly. Another part of our role that ’ s been really fun is helping out with sports. Some Peer Mediators have been umpiring and scoring basketball and soccer games at recess and lunch. This has helped to make sure the games are fair, and that everyone gets a turn. It ’ s been awesome seeing students include each other, respect the rules, and enjoy sport in a positive way. We ’ ve also worked closely with the SRC students this year. Together, we ’ ve helped plan and support school events like fundraisers, dress - up days, and lunchtime activities. It ’ s been great collaborating with other student leaders to come up with new ideas that make school more fun and inclusive for everyone.
Peer Mediators have also been going into younger year levels to help students with reading and classwork. Whether it ’ s helping a Prep sound out words, or sitting with a Year 1 during writing time, it ’ s been a great way to build connections across the school and be positive role models. Finally, we ’ ve been working hard to keep our school environment clean. During recess and lunch, we ’ ve teamed up with other students to pick up rubbish and encourage everyone to be environmental warriors. We ’ ve reminded others about looking after our school grounds and using the bins correctly. It ’ s amazing to see how much cleaner and greener our school is when we all work together. Being a Peer Mediator has been an awesome leadership opportunity, and we can ’ t wait to see even more students join the team next year!
SECONDARY REFLECTION TORI, RUBI, KIARA & SIERRA YEAR 9 & 10 PEER MEDIATORS
Our Year 10 Peer Support Team has been entrusted with the important role of helping our Year 7 students transition smoothly and confidently into Secondary School life. Recognising the significance of this responsibility, several members of the peer support team were given the exciting opportunity to attend the Year 7 Camp at Phillip Island. This experience was not only a chance for us to lead but also a valuable moment to connect with the new students and guide them as they begin their secondary journey. Below is a report reflecting on our time at camp and what it meant for us as leaders. As peer support leaders, we arrived at the Year 7 Camp ready to take on our roles as mentors and role models, embodying the school ’ s core values of Learning, Leadership, Teamwork and Respect. Throughout the three - day camp, we were actively involved in running a variety of engaging activities designed to foster teamwork and build friendships among the Year 7 students. One of our key responsibilities was planning and leading the activities for the Year 7’ s special beach day. We chose to organise a series of fun and inclusive games that encouraged cooperation, communication, and mutual support—qualities that we believe are essential for a positive school community.
Beyond the structured activities, one of the highlights of the camp was the time we spent together away from the usual school environment. It was refreshing and rewarding to experience moments that wouldn ’ t typically happen during the school day, such as going on night walks along the beach and through nearby trails. We still laugh about the unexpected encounter with a group of cows during one of those walks, which made the experience even more memorable and brought us closer as a team. These shared moments created a sense of camaraderie and helped strengthen the bond between both the Year 10 leaders and the Year 7 campers. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to participate in this camp and want to extend our gratitude to the teachers and camp organisers who made it possible. Being able to lead activities, support younger students, and share in their first camp experience was truly rewarding. We believe this opportunity is incredibly valuable, not just for us, but for future Year 10 peer support leaders as well. It allows us to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and make a positive impact on the school community, setting a strong foundation for the years ahead.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter CURRICULUM
NUMERACY ON PRIMARY: THE SCIENCE OF LEARNING
At The Lakes, our approach to teaching Mathematics is guided by the latest research in the Science of Learning and the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0. In our Primary classrooms, lessons are designed to build confidence in young learners, using explicit teaching, carefully chosen worked examples, and a gradual release of responsibility. Teachers begin by explaining and modelling concepts, then guide students through examples together, before supporting them as they work independently. Throughout this process, teachers continually check for understanding, provide timely feedback, and offer targeted support and extension, ensuring every student is challenged at just the right level and develops a strong foundation in Mathematics.
DAILY REVIEW
One of the most effective ways to strengthen learning is through retrieval practice—recalling previously learned knowledge so it can be securely stored in long - term memory. At The Lakes, each Mathematics lesson begins with a Daily Review that revisits key concepts in a structured and logically spaced sequence. This routine reinforces retention, highlights areas where students may need further support, and prepares them for new learning. Using mini whiteboards, students actively engage with questions and receive instant feedback, making learning visible for both students and teachers.
ENGAGEMENT
Engagement in Mathematics is crucial for students to consolidate learning and grasp new concepts. After the Daily Review, students observe the teacher modelling new ideas, then practice alongside the teacher with guidance before moving into independent work. Mini whiteboards, along with active engagement cues (hand signals, questioning, etc.), encourage all students to stay involved and allow teachers to quickly assess understanding. Independent tasks may include consolidating a new skill, applying it to real - world problems, or exploring ideas through concrete materials, ensuring learning is both meaningful and accessible.
TIMES TABLES ROCK STARS AND NUMBOTS
Fluency with number facts is essential for success in Mathematics, as it frees up working memory to focus on more complex concepts. Programs such as Times Tables Rock Stars and NumBots provide engaging opportunities for students to practice number facts until they become automatic. This automaticity reduces cognitive load, allowing students to concentrate on higher - order thinking, reasoning, and problem solving in Mathematics and beyond. At The Lakes, we believe that great learning happens when we work together. Our teachers continually reflect on their practice, drawing on research, assessment, and student feedback to refine and improve the way we teach Mathematics. Just as importantly, we value parents and carers as partners in learning and know that by sharing strategies and supporting each other, we can give students the strongest possible foundation in Numeracy. Together, we are building confident learners who are ready to apply their skills both in the classroom and in everyday life.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
PEER COACHING: LEADERSHIP IN ACTION ACROSS CAMPUSES
This Semester, our Peer Coaching program has proven to be a powerful example of leadership in action— bringing together our high-ability students from Years 4, 5, 6, and 8 in a shared learning experience that builds confidence, connection, and collaboration across Campuses. Guided by the principles of Learning, Leadership, Teamwork, and Respect, our Year 8 Peer Coaches have worked alongside younger students to support their learning goals in both Literacy and Numeracy. Through active listening, encouragement, and reflective practice, they ’ ve modelled what it means to “ grow by helping others grow. ”
“ I ’ ve loved working with the Year 4s, 5s and 6s. The Year 4s have been so open and honest, the Year 5s were full of fun—especially during transition week—and the Year 6s were so smart and helpful that I even learnt a few things from them! I ’ ve loved this program so much. ” — Tessa B “ Throughout these sessions, I ’ ve really learnt from the younger high - ability students—things about myself, how I teach, and how I work with children. It ’ s been so fun watching how different students learn in their own ways. Overall, this experience has been really interesting to be a part of. ” — Yvonne Y “ I enjoyed this program because I liked working with the other year levels. I ’ ve learnt that I can help other students with their work—so long as I understand it! ” — Noah B “ This program has been a really good experience. It ’ s taught me to understand and acknowledge the different skills and levels of other students while also helping them at their own pace. ” — Alexia P “ I enjoy this program because it offers Primary students a friendly face when they get to Secondary school. The opportunity to help the younger grades is fun and helps us build bonds with them. ” — Millicent R “ Being part of the High - Abilities Program as a peer coach was a really fun experience. Teaching younger students strengthened my leadership skills and raised my confidence in mentoring others. I ’ ve also realised that I work really well with younger students .” — Janavi N “ I learnt that younger students enjoy my company and find me respectful and fun. I ’ ve also learnt how to adjust how I explain things so that they better fit each student ’ s learning style. ” — Ashwin B
LEARNING THROUGH LEADERSHIP
Every Friday, the Year 8 VIA students act with passion, patience and with energy as our Peer Coaches who mentor younger high - ability learners on the Primary Campus. These sessions have given the Year 8s the opportunity to strengthen communication skills, practise emotional intelligence, and see firsthand the joy of learning through service.
VOICES OF OUR PEER COACHES
“ Being part of the Peer Coaching program has been such a great experience. Working with the Year 4s, 5s and 6s has helped me build my confidence and leadership skills, and I ’ ve really enjoyed connecting with students from the younger Campus. I ’ ve learnt that I ’ m actually a really good tutor, especially when it comes to helping with Maths, and it ’ s been awesome seeing the students improve and have fun. This experience has shown me that I can step up, be a leader, and make a difference. ” — Tijana M
“ From my experience, I learnt how to start conversations easily and understand what truly interests the students. I ’ ve also learned how to motivate them and give hints instead of answers when they ’ re stuck. ” — Bertrand N “ Being in the Year 8 Peer Coaching program has helped me realise how much I ’ ve grown in teamwork and connection with my mentees. It ’ s been a blast, and I look forward every Friday to continuing to build on my strengths and weaknesses. ” — Elliston T “ This program was fun because I got to bond with Primary students and get to know them. I learnt that I can give good advice and help them stay on track when distracted. ” — Hanan D “ Being in this program helped me realise how fun it can be to work with younger students—and how something that ’ s easy for me might be tricky for someone else. It taught me to adapt to different learning abilities and even helped me learn some new things myself. Overall, it was a great experience. ” — Jana P
A SHARED JOURNEY
The Peer Coaching program continues to highlight the strength of our learning community—where leadership isn ’ t about titles, but about empathy, curiosity, and growth. We ’ re proud of every student who took part and look forward to expanding this initiative in 2026 as we continue to nurture leaders who learn and learners who lead.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter SOCIAL SCENE
POLICY SPOTLIGHT
PERSONAL BELONGINGS POLICY
http://www.thelakes.edu.au/uploads/8/3/9/0/83901006/personal_property_policy_2022.pdf
The Lakes understands that students may sometimes like to bring items of personal property to school. The Department of Education and Training does not have insurance for personal property of staff, students and visitors. The Lakes does not take responsibility for items of personal property that are lost, stolen or damaged at school or during school activities. Damage to personal property brought to school is the responsibility of the owner of that property. The Lakes South Morang College encourages students not to bring items of value to school, or to obtain appropriate insurance for such items. If students bring items of value to school, they should be handed to school administration for secure storage at the office until the end of the day, when the items may be collected by the student and/or parent/carer.
Policies are available to all families via our website http://www.thelakes.edu.au/policies -- reports.html
PHOTOS FROM THE EVENING !
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COMPASS UPDATE
HOW TO ACCESS COMPASS LEARNING TASKS VIA THE APP
HOW TO ACCESS COMPASS LEARNING TASKS ON A BROWSER
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter WHAT ’ S ON @ THE LAKES
Breakfast Club on Primary Campus Every Wednesday 8.15am - 8.45am
OCTOBER:
WEEK 4
Primary Assembly 9.15am in Gym
Monday 27th
Year 4 Excursion
Year 12 Exams begin!
Tuesday 28th
Year 6 Excursion
Year 7 VIA Excursion
Year 3/4 Soccer Gala Day
Thursday 30th
VCE Food Studies Excursion
NOVEMBER:
WEEK 5
Monday 3rd
Pupil Free Day
Tuesday 4th
Melbourne Cup Day
Year 3 Excursion
Friday 7th
Year 1 Dinner
Year 2 Sleepover
WEEK 6
Primary Assembly 9.15am in Gym
Monday 10th
Wednesday 12th
2026 Prep Transition Program
Thursday 13th— Friday 14th
Glasses for Kids Program
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.
YEAR 5/6 NOTEBOOK PROGRAM - 2026
NO HAT - NO PLAY We will be enforcing our ‘ No Hat, No Play ’ policy in Term 4 on the Primary Campus. Wide - brimmed hats (with the school logo), are available at the uniform shop.
We ’ re writing to inform you of an important change to our technology program for Year 5 and 6 students starting in 2026. After careful consideration and in consultation with the School Council and broader school community, The Lakes South Morang College has made the decision to transition from iPads to Windows touchscreen notebook computers for students in Years 5 and 6. This move aligns our Primary and Secondary learning experiences and brings our technology use in line with most primary schools across Victoria, who have already adopted Windows - based programs. It also ensures our students are better prepared for the digital expectations of Year 7 and beyond .
ROAD SAFETY AROUND THE LAKES SOUTH MORANG COLLEGE The Lakes South Morang College is situated near busy roads with heavy traffic throughout the day, with particular attention to the front of our school, where we have several busy intersections and shared pathways with Coles, Collingwood Language School, Merriang SDS and the Kinder. We strongly remind all families that students must always use the designated school crossings. We are increasingly noticing students exiting or entering vehicles while crossing or weaving through traffic, which poses a serious risk. Please use the designated drop - off zones and encourage your child to cross only at supervised crossings. Holding your child ’ s hand near roads and vehicles is a simple but effective way to support their safety. Please also take the time to talk with your child about how to stay safe near parked cars, footpaths, and driveways. Please note that the designated entry and exit gate on Lakes Boulevard will be closed in Term 4. This is due to construction starting on The Lakes South Morang College Kinder. Students and parents/carers are asked to either enter/exit the school through the Gordons Road gate or the front office.
Why Are We Transitioning to Notebooks?
While iPads have served many learning purposes, they are limited in supporting the broader skills needed in upper primary and secondary education. Windows - based touchscreen notebooks:
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Offer a full desktop computing experience
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Support keyboard proficiency and multitasking
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Provide compatibility with the software and systems used from Year 7 onwards
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Offer improved file management, software flexibility, and better integration with our college systems
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Devices purchased through our approved portals will be supported at The Lakes in Years 7 and beyond.
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Support stylus use for handwriting and drawing
SIBLING ENROLMENT FORMS This is the final call for any sibling enrolments for Prep in 2026. With 2026 planning in full swing, this is essential for the school to be able to allocate appropriate class structures and set our students up for success. It is vital that if you have a student starting school next year that you put in an enrolment form and come in and speak with me at school.
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
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter UNIFORM PRICING
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter UNIFORM PRICING
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
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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