The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter
Term 4, Week 11
ISSUE 16 2025
Principal Report School Captain Reflections Are you 2026 Ready? End of Year Awards School Council Report What ’ s on @ The Lakes
Image : Secondary Art
PRINCIPAL REPORT
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
BILL PANAS COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
01 Principal Report
06 Message from the Editor
07 Student Perspective
Congratulations to our students, staff, parents/carers and our School Council for a wonderful year. 2025 has been a year of consolidation: College processes, communication systems and the implementation of consistent policies have enabled us to operate with high levels of proficiency, building confidence, capacity, and a culture underpinned by goodwill, understanding and a solution - focused mindset. Our focus on academic growth and learning for impact has reaped rewards across programs on both the Primary and Secondary Campuses.
08 School Council
10 Curriculum
07 Policy Spotlight
12 End of Term Awards
16 College Contributions
18 2026 Organisational Chart
20 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.
22 Social Scene
24 Community Noticeboard
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter PRINCIPAL REPORT
The markers I have used to make this assessment are as follows:
with similar enrolments. Our social media pages continue to thrive, providing timely updates on excursions, camps, achievements and community events.
1. Consistency of Practice
This has been strengthened by an embedded curriculum program with clear learning intentions and success criteria, and continuous assessment based on learner point of need and driven by a defined instructional model. High expectations for student and staff performance, along with measures and targets, ensuring that we work collectively to improve student outcomes.
5. Family Feedback
Both formal and informal feedback indicates overwhelming family support for our College goals, programs and processes. We continue to emphasise the importance of the triangular partnership between student, family and College—an essential ingredient that will guide our work as we strive to meet the evolving needs of our students. We will be reinforcing our expectations to all of our families at our “ Meet & Greet ” Day at the beginning of next year.
2. Student Behaviour Expectations
Students are presenting to school with enthusiasm, a desire to learn and to actively participate. There is a distinct sense of calmness, cooperation and care for one another. Visitors—whether for enrolment tours, Principal group visits, departmental audits or professional learning—consistently comment and compliment on the positive behaviour of our students. Students understand our expectations and Values, and when consequences are required, they are implemented consistently and supported by families. Incident reports and suspensions have continued to decrease. This has been a significant focus of our work and our behaviour processes are rigid and clearly understood.
6. Staff Demographic
We have recruited and retained a highly experienced team, with only minor turnover. Each of our 85 (3 Leadership/57 teaching/25 Education Support staff) are empowered to lead, to make decisions that enrich student learning, to assess academic data with diligence and care, and to create opportunities for every child to grow academically and emotionally. Our teachers use data informed practices to plan, have student profiles to set goals, collaborate on tasks and assess progress for reporting. We are increasing opportunities for student feedback and reflection using data from the Attitude To School Surveys to run Discovery Interviews in an effort to capture student voice.
3. Enabling Learning
Students are increasingly coming to school prepared with the correct equipment, charged devices and textbooks. The recording of attendance and punctuality have improved markedly this year, and our soft start on the Primary Campus has been particularly successful. The College has invested heavily in attendance follow - up, asking families to be accountable and provide appropriate documentation for absences. Family partnership is critical in ensuring our ongoing commitment to improved standards in learning and wellbeing. Effective and timely communications between families and school are essential if we are to create an environment conducive for learning.
Completing a Vision for an Educational Precinct in South Morang
In recent years, the Leadership Team has worked with determination to realise a vision of a “ one - stop schooling ” model for our community.
Since 2022, the precinct has expanded to include:
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A VCE program at the Secondary Campus
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An onsite language school
4. High Levels of Communication
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A new kindergarten opening in 2026 under the State Government ’ s Best Start, Best Life initiative. Enquire at Kids First Tel:(03)94500900 or reception@kidsfirstaustralia.org,au who are managing our new Kinder. There have already been extensive enquiries and applications for next year.
Our community has transitioned extremely well to the Compass communication platform. Information is now centralised and accessible, allowing families to easily navigate timetables, reporting, announcements, payments and events. Data shows high levels of engagement and indicates that our response times exceed those of schools
There is a strong sense of pride in these achievements and confidence that the community will continue to grow stronger, more connected and better resourced as a result. This success is strongly linked to numerous improvements in facilities, ICT and devices, access to exponential learning opportunities, senior academic outcomes, strengthened security and a consistent approach to policy implementation.
We refer to this unique narrative as our Leadership Through the Four Pillars:
High Expectations
Leadership upholds professional standards through a clear Code of Conduct, transparent data practices and equitable resourcing aligned to AIP goals. Students have Individual Education and Pathway Plans supported by continuous reporting. Staff have clearly defined measures and targets underpinned by a commitment to each of our pillars that invariably represent our moral purpose and enthusiasm to be successful.
Academic Rigour
A whole - school commitment to rigour through impactful learning, school structure and a culture of achievement has strengthened academic excellence. VCE policy and procedure has cascaded throughout the College to drive the necessary learning behaviours critical for success. In a short time frame, the College is proud to report that:
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Median VCE study score increased from 24 (2023) to 30 (2024), the highest in the Whittlesea region (including catholic and independent schools)
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Median VCE English score of 32 —the highest in the North East Metropolitan Area
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VCE General Maths median score of 30 – the second highest in the North East Metropolitan Area Our high abilities VIA enrolments continue to grow, attracting high - performing students from feeder primary schools
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Introduction of Years 5 – 6 VIA in 2026
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter PRINCIPAL REPORT
School Pride
School Council has overseen $300,000 in facility upgrades, improving ICT capability, learning environments and upgrading communication channels— including newsletters, Compass, the Inspire Magazine and social media—to strengthen connection and community pride. School publications including Inspire are presented to the highest quality and our productions reflect a level of excellence so that our students shine with each and every showcase event. Our College grounds are maintained in the highest order so that our community feels and shares our pride and our School Council effectively audits and responds in a timely fashion to parent/carer requests through “ Hot Topics ” and issues that impact their child or their College.
Positive Climate for Change
Community partnerships are thriving through family fundraising events, strong transition programs and preparations for the 2026 Kindergarten opening. Our transition programs are now extensive and our College consistently identifies resources and opportunities to engage all learners in numerous courses beyond those offered at the College. We encourage our Alumni and wider community to provide their expertise to curriculum programs and engage our leaders, staff and students, to present their achievements at conferences and events.
Our Goals
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Strong levels of transparency and inclusive leadership
• Individual learner growth and agency, supported by high expectations
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Optimised student wellbeing initiatives tailored to need
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Strong community partnerships and school pride
2026 is shaping up to be a vibrant year filled with growth, innovation, and exciting opportunities for everyone in our community. Together with our School Council— and with your ongoing support as parents, carers, grandparents, and families—we remain committed to providing every child at our amazing College with a high - quality education in a beautiful environment that inspires learning, wellbeing, and personal growth.
New Leadership Responsibility Positions
To strengthen our shared vision for consistent, high - impact teaching and learning, our Leadership Team is expanding to four members. We are delighted to announce that Ms Short has been appointed Assistant Principal, Teaching & Learning, and will lead curriculum initiatives across both Campuses. In addition, we are enhancing our commitment to data - informed practice with Mr McLean stepping into the recalibrated role of Leading Teacher – Data, Assessment and Reporting, working in close alignment with our new Assistant Principal.
Student Leadership
On the Primary Campus, a new interview room will be constructed within the staffroom to accommodate our vision of establishing our main administration headquarters on site. With advancements in AI and new technologies, we will also streamline front office operations—creating pathways for our highly skilled staff to retrain and grow into exciting, contemporary roles that will be in high demand in the years ahead.
After extensive consultation with our students, we have re - energised our student leadership programs and structure. Our expanded student leadership team will comprise of over 20 students on each Campus who will now work within the “ Learning ” and “ Wellbeing ” pillars, ensuring students play an authentic and active role in shaping decisions and driving positive change across the College. Our recent Discovery Interviews highlighted a strong student desire for more opportunities beyond the classroom—and we ’ re excited to deliver. In 2026, we will introduce three new programs: Athletic Development, Arts: Dance and Visual Art. These additions will further enrich our already diverse extracurricular landscape. Importantly, these programs will run outside the current school timetable and will not impact the existing curriculum.
2026 Prep Vacancies
There is availability for 10 more Prep students for next year. We are officially running 3 x cohorts. If you are aware of families who may wish to enrol their child for Prep, please enquire at the Primary General Office as the spots will most likely be filled after the holidays.
Congratulations to our VCE class of 2025.
Middle Leaders
We are so proud of our 2025 VCE student ’ s outstanding results and achievements. We wish them continued success in the next stage of their life journey at university, TAFE, apprenticeships or employment.
Our Middle Leaders will continue to grow their influence through expanded coaching, modelling, and professional learning. A comprehensive Professional Learning Coaching program will empower our Middle Leaders to guide meaningful conversations around teaching practice, learning design, and staff development. They will work closely with teachers to analyse key student performance data and drive progress toward our school targets—an exciting step forward for our entire community.
Strong Performance Benchmarks
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61% of all study scores were 25 or higher, indicating solid academic achievement across the cohort.
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34% of study scores were 30 or higher, placing these students in the top 50% of the state.
Facilities
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Over 11% of study scores were 35 or higher, placing students in the top 15% statewide.
Enhancing safety remains a top priority. Following a recent assessment by the Department of Education Security Division—which identified several key risks—we have applied for additional funding and are working closely with the VSBA and School Council to improve security across both Campuses. We are also thrilled to be upgrading our ICT infrastructure. Primary students will receive new devices, and a refreshed Year 5 – 6 digital learning program will help our young learners become confident, capable technology users as they transition to Secondary school. At the Secondary Campus, a new computer lab equipped with contemporary hardware will support students in VCE, Media, Materials Technology and Digital Technology.
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Multiple study scores were achieved in the 40s, reflecting high academic excellence.
Staff Farewells
As the end of the year draws close, we wish to thank the four staff who will be leaving the College in 2025. We thank Ms Sharna Spence, Mr Nathaniel Lamb, Mr Cham Wickramasinghe and Ms Kat Slater for all of their work throughout the year, contributing to our College community and enriching the lives of our students with learning and extracurricular opportunities. We wish them all the best on their future endeavors.
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter PRINCIPAL REPORT
Meet & Greet Day
Our welcome - back “ Meet & Greet ” interviews will be held on January 28, 2026. You will receive plenty of notice via Compass to book your appointment. This day is an essential part of building the strong partnership between college and family, and we proudly prioritise it in our calendar each year. On behalf of the Leadership Team—Mr Abney - Hastings, Ms Lee, and myself—we wish you a joyful festive season and a prosperous new year. Stay safe, stay connected, and continue looking out for one another.
We thank you for your support, your feedback, and your goodwill. We are on this journey together—stronger than ever!!!
Mr Panas College Principal
MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR I just wanted to take this opportunity to celebrate not only the final issue of the College Newsletter for 2025, but also acknowledge and thank all who have contributed to the 16 issues over the year. In particular I would like to
thank the Principal team; Mrs Lee, Mr Abney - Hastings, Mr Panas, Mr Zull, Mr McLean, Ms Short, Mrs Greeves, Ms Sutton and Mr Taylor for their ongoing support and regular reports. Thankyou also to Mr Taylor and Ms Hayton, along with their fantastic student leaders who have also ensured each issue celebrates student voice and learning across the College. Thankyou to Amanda and the members of School Council who have embraced the newsletter and have worked collaboratively with me to develop articles and ideas for future issues. Each fortnight the College Newsletter provides our community with not only a snapshot of what has been achieved but also a celebration of connections we are building and opportunities and events coming up. In our final issue of The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter we have our 2025 Primary and Secondary school captains reflection, filmed at our Awards Night, along with a celebration of all the End of Year award winners from the night. If you are unsure of what your child needs to begin 2026 or how the beginning of Term 1 will look, you will also find this information in this issue.
Thankyou to everyone who takes the time to read what is put together each issue. From myself and my team of staff who support each issue, have a wonderful and safe holidays.
Ms Wilson
STUDENT PERSPECTIVE
2025 SCHOOL CAPTAIN REPORTS
PRIMARY SCHOOL CAPTAINS
LACHLAN, JERUSHA, MANEEL & KENZI
SECONDARY SCHOOL CAPTAINS
ANHAD & AIDEN
INTRODUCING OUR 2026 SCHOOL CAPTAINS!
Scan code for digital Awards Night program
PRIMARY: OSCAR L, THAEMELA, SIENA & HAMZA SECONDARY: ZAF, ADELE, ZAF & CARMEL
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter SCHOOL COUNCIL
SCHOOL COUNCIL REPORT
AMANDA FARRELLY SCHOOL COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Hi Parents/Carers,
At our last meeting we also:
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Endorsed the 2025 Annual Implementation Plan;
As we wrap up another incredible year, there ’ s so much to celebrate across our school community. Our Year 12s have completed their school journey — congratulations on this milestone and best wishes for the exciting paths ahead, whether that ’ s study, work, or new opportunities. Well done to our Year 6s for wrapping up primary school too. We also wish you all the best as you head off on to your secondary school adventures. Lastly, a huge congratulations to our award winners and Valedictorians at our School Awards Night tonight. Congratulations too to our families and staff who have played a part in these successes. At our final School Council meeting in November, each representative shared a personal reflection on the year. Remarkably, our responses echoed one another — a sign of the strong cohesion within our group. Key highlights included:
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Endorsed increasing hirer fees by 5% across all of our facilities hirers commencing in 2026.
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Endorsed purchasing 30 document readers across both Campuses. These readers will integrate with the existing digital screens in classrooms and will enable teachers to model and teach more effectively to students.
I would like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of our parent representatives. Special thanks to Anna - Lisa Tewma, Grant Voss, Helen Skendaris, Jenny Archibald, Josie Benfari, Kathryn Lieschke, and Veronica Marsh for providing leadership and direction, and always keeping our students and families front of mind. I would also like to acknowledge Katrina Hartley and Karen Gilchrist for their contributions to the Welcome BBQ at the start of the year, and to Laura Johnson, Jenevieve Soria, and Caitlyn Cox who have now taken up the fundraising challenge. The sense of teamwork is amazing. We are grateful to our Leadership team — Mr Panas, Ms Lee, and Mr Abney - Hastings — along with Business Manager Mrs Saliba, for their openness to ideas and initiatives and wonderful support. Thank you also to Mrs Thompson and Mrs Potocnik for their admin support; Ms Wilson for promoting our activities; and Mrs McIntyre and Mrs Sutton for representing staff. Thank you also to our Primary & Secondary captains and the reports they provide at our meetings. Strengthening community connections will always remain a key focus. Parents and carers are vital partners in our school, and your involvement in initiatives and events makes a real difference. Early next year, nominations will open for the new School Council term. Joining School Council is a fantastic way to contribute and have input to buildings, grounds and maintenance; school governance, fundraising, and facilities planning. If you ’ re interested, please reach out to me at amanda.farrelly@education.vic.gov.au. Lastly, I would like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday break – I hope you get a chance to relax and rejuvenate and School Council looks forward to seeing everyone again at our Welcome BBQ in February 2026!
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The installation of air conditioning on the Secondary Campus.
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The growing collaboration between Primary and Secondary Campuses.
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The rising enrolment enquiries and community interest in our school.
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Ongoing upgrades to make our facilities more welcoming.
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Positive feedback for the Prep school readiness program.
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Increased parent/carer and staff use of Compass to support learning and communication.
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And, of course, our seamless and professional newsletter (thank you, Ms Wilson).
Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be another exciting year with:
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The opening of the Kindergarten;
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The start of the 5/6 VIA program; and
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Funding set aside for new carpets in admin areas, replacement drinking taps on both Campuses, security upgrades, and a new meeting space on Primary.
Cheers,
Amanda Farrelly School Council President
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter CURRICULUM
ARE YOU READY FOR 2026? Please use the following checklist to ensure that your young person is set for success at the start of 2026. DEAR LAKES FAMILIES...
ALL YEAR LEVELS:
BOOKLISTS 2026
Prep - 12 Booklists have been emailed to families, or alternatively can be found at https://www.thelakes.edu.au/ curriculum - charges -- payments.html All orders are to be completed online via www.campion.com.au by Friday 19th December 2025 for delivery on 23rd January 2026.
FEE SCHEDULE 2026
2026 Fee Schedules have been emailed to families, or alternatively can be found at http://www.thelakes.edu.au/ curriculum - charges -- payments.html Please note, for students undertaking elective subjects in Years 9 - 12, curriculum contributions may apply. The final date for payments for these subjects is Friday 13th February 2026 . Payments not received by this date may result in students being switched to other elective classes.
UNIFORM
Please note our uniform supplier LOWES Schoolwear - Plenty Valley , 415 McDonalds Rd, Mill Park 3082 (9404 3651) Excitingly, our Indigenous Polo tops designed by our College Koori Group and artist Peter Hood are now available to purchase as a uniform item. We look forward to seeing students wear these with pride as we walk together in celebrating connections to both Country and culture.
Please log into the Compass app and click on the contributions link.
MEET & GREET IN 2026
The Lakes South Morang College Meet and Greet Day will be held on Wednesday 28th January 2026 from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm. Parents/Carers have an opportunity to meet with Learner Coaches from Prep to Year 12 to share information regarding your child and program information for 2026. Appointments are 15 minutes each and bookings can be made via Compass (Prep families are not required to complete this step as individual bookings have been made). VCE students and families (including Early Entry VCE) also have a scheduled information session between 4.30 - 5.30pm in the Secondary Campus PD room, so we ask families to book appointments with Learner Coaches around these times. BOOKINGS OPEN TUESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2025 Additional information regarding bookings will be communicated to families shortly.
STUDENT COMMENCEMENT DATES: STUDENTS IN PREP: Prep families will be allocated a Meet & Greet time and do not need to book via Compass. This will be given to you at the last transition session on Wednesday 10th December
ON PRIMARY:
BEING SUNSMART
We will be enforcing our ‘ No Hat, No Play ’ policy in Term 1 on the Primary Campus. Hats must be wide - brim (with the school logo), which is available at the uniform shop.
Students commence school on Thursday 29th January 2026
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Group 1: 9.30am –
12.15pm
BYOD DEVICES
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Group 2: 12:30pm –
3:15pm
Edunet and JBHiFi are the College ’ s preferred providers. More information regarding iPad ’ s can be accessed via www.thelakes.edu.au/byod - program.html
Students participate in individual entry testing on:
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Wednesday 4th February 2025
STAYING CONNECTED
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Wednesday 11th February 2025
Please ensure the school has the correct contact details for you so that all correspondence, notes or relevant information for your child is received. Compass is the primary method for home - school communications at The Lakes so please make sure you have access to this.
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Wednesday 18th February 2025
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Wednesday 25th February 2025
Prep students are only required to attend school for their allocated assessment time. Parents/carers are not required to attend this one - hour session.
From Monday 2nd February 2026 Prep school hours are 9:00am – 3:15pm.
YEAR 7 TO 12:
Please ensure that you send enough food for your child along with a labelled hat and water bottle in their school bag
LAPTOP
Edunet and JBHiFi are the College ’ s preferred providers. More information regarding laptops can be accessed via www.thelakes.edu.au/byod - program.html
STUDENTS IN YEAR 1 TO 12:
Students and families participate in a Meet & Greet appointment between 10:30 am and 6:30 pm with their Learner Coach on Wednesday 28th January 2026
DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
We have launched our 7 - 9 Development Programs for Artists, Athletes and Dancers. Applications are now open for 2026. Development Program application - The Lakes South Morang College
Students commence school at 9:00 am on Thursday 29th January 2026.
PLEASE HAVE A SAFE HOLIDAYS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN 2026!
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter END OF YEAR AWARDS
PREP - YEAR 10 SUBJECT AWARDS
LITERACY
NUMERACY
PREP: Emmy Dodd YEAR ONE: Thieven Soobrayen YEAR TWO: Mia Crane YEAR THREE: Evelyn Muscat YEAR FOUR: Amelia Vu YEAR FIVE: Misha Murthy YEAR SIX: Addison Mercuri YEAR SEVEN: Charlee Muscat YEAR EIGHT: Ashwin Bhutani YEAR NINE: Ruhani Chada YEAR TEN: Omar Kakar
PREP: Viaan Yadav YEAR ONE: Loran Mahmoud YEAR TWO: Mia Crane YEAR THREE: Martin Ristevski YEAR FOUR: Xander Mason YEAR FIVE: Ryan Longhurst YEAR SIX: Jerusha Lijo YEAR SEVEN: Charlee Muscat YEAR EIGHT: Tijana Markovska
YEAR NINE: Kris Terpou YEAR TEN: Omar Kakar
HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION PREP: Ivan Stojanovski YEAR ONE: Chief Kavapalu YEAR TWO: Logan Henwood YEAR THREE: Cooper Zabiegala YEAR FOUR: Eli Mccoid YEAR FIVE: Axel Tenson YEAR SIX: Lachlan Mccoid YEAR SEVEN: Grace Tsimiklis YEAR EIGHT: Alexia Plata YEAR NINE: Kris Terpou YEAR TEN: Omar Kakar
HUMANITIES
PREP: Penelope Ferreira Gilbert YEAR ONE: Theodore Chapman YEAR TWO: Matzu Chin Holt YEAR THREE: Rylee Greaves YEAR FOUR: Rantej Singh YEAR FIVE: Destan Naude YEAR SIX: Kian Shah YEAR SEVEN: Charlee Muscat YEAR EIGHT: Alice Petrilli YEAR NINE: Mannat Randhawa YEAR TEN: Hannah Scott
PERFORMING ARTS
TECHNOLOGY
PREP: Dafne Rogers YEAR ONE: Marlee McDonell YEAR TWO: Indiana Gilmour YEAR THREE: Stella Vu YEAR FOUR: Layal Belal YEAR FIVE: Elijah Taua YEAR SIX: Jerusha Lijo YEAR SEVEN: Samira Bizmovski YEAR EIGHT: Mia Cleary YEAR NINE: Mannat Randhawa YEAR TEN: Carmel Serra
PREP: Alexander Smith YEAR ONE: Cormac Langton YEAR TWO: Victor Jovevski YEAR THREE: Eleftheria Giglas YEAR FOUR: Austin Horne YEAR FIVE: Oliver Muscat YEAR SIX: Kyle Wood YEAR SEVEN: Tre Hepper YEAR EIGHT: Tijana Markovska
YEAR NINE: Logan Jones YEAR TEN: Nicolas Marsh
SCIENCE
VISUAL ARTS
PREP: Danny Bailey YEAR ONE: Evan Mercuri YEAR TWO: Luke Di Vincenzo YEAR THREE: Bea Chapman YEAR FOUR: Olivia Soria YEAR FIVE: Noah Mistica-Knapik YEAR SIX: Trinity Andrewartha YEAR SEVEN: Nathan Hay
PREP: Maddie Morris YEAR ONE: Justin Jiang YEAR TWO: Emily Kei
YEAR THREE: Ray Terolli YEAR FOUR: Olivia Soria YEAR FIVE: Thaemela Soobrayen YEAR SEVEN: Kathy Nguyen YEAR EIGHT: Savannah Phillip- Comfort YEAR NINE: Rubi Armstrong YEAR TEN: Omar Kakar
YEAR EIGHT: Mia Pavic YEAR NINE: Zahra Belal YEAR TEN: Omar Kakar
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter END OF YEAR AWARDS
VCE & VCAL SUBJECT EXCELLENCE AWARDS
ALGORITHMICS
ENGLISH
Year 12 - Anhad Singh
Year 11 - Atakan Yurtsever Year 12 - Angela Tran
ART
FOOD STUDIES
Year 11 - Christina Tran
Year 11 - Adele Sprague Year 12 - Angela Tran
APPLIED COMPUTING Year 12 - Anhad Singh
FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS
Year 11 - Asal Rezaei
BIOLOGY
GENERAL MATHEMATICS
Year 11 - Hasti Kamran Year 12 - Marta Susino
Year 11 - Teagan Neary Year 12 - Angela Tran & Ayaan Muhammad
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Year 11 - Teagan Neary Year 12 - Ayaan Muhammad
HEALTH & HUMAN DEV. Year 11 - Christina Tran Year 12 - Jesse Haranas, Teagan Neary & Mehar Sandhu
CHEMISTRY
LEGAL STUDIES
Year 11 - Hasti Kamran Year 12 - Anhad Singh
Year 12 - Harmony Osiecki
DRAMA
MODERN HISTORY Year 11 - Malia Fale Year 12 - Arsh Chadha
Year 11 - Harmony Osiecki
COLLEGE AWARDS
SCHOOL SPORTS VICTORIA AWARD Kyle Wood AMPOL - ALL ROUNDER AWARD Jorja Pike KWONG LEE DOW YOUNG SCHOLARS PROGRAM Omar Kakar
MATHEMATICAL METHODS Year 11 - Hasti Kamran Year 12 - Anhad Singh PHYSICAL EDUCATION Year 12 - Jesse Haranas & Alannah Cleary PSYCHOLOGY Year 11 - Christina Tran Year 12 - Ayaan Muhammad
VET EXCELLENCE
Marcus Cianciarulo
VCE VM LITERACY Year 11 - Adrian Marsh Year 12 - Chloe Head
YEAR SIX VALEDICTORIAN
VCE VM PDS Year 11 - Olivia Tong Year 12 - Aiden Jolly
Addison Mercuri
VCE VM WRS Year 11 - Ashton Negrin Year 12 - Mia Vescio
YEAR TWELVE VALEDICTORIAN
Anhad Singh
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COLLEGE CONTRIBUTIONS
Dear Parents and Carers,
We are excited to embark on another year of teaching and learning at The Lakes South Morang College in 2026. As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we would like to advise you of important information regarding the College ’ s voluntary financial contributions for 2026.
While Government schools provide free instruction to meet standard curriculum requirements, assuring that all contributions are voluntary, the ongoing financial support from our families is crucial. Your contributions enable us to maintain high - quality teaching and learning programs, enhance extracurricular offerings, and ensure the upkeep of our buildings and grounds. These resources significantly enrich the educational experience for all our students.
School Council, along with its Finance Committee, collaborates closely with our Leadership Teams to establish recommended student fees that align with the College's budgetary needs. Your support has allowed us to implement vital student wellbeing programs, make upgrades to our facilities, and enhance classroom technology—all of which directly benefit our students.
We are committed to transparency regarding the allocation of school funds and will continue to provide regular updates through school communications and official School Council reports.
Attached you will find details of the 2026 contributions. For additional information on the Department ’ s Parent Payments Policy, please refer to the one - page overview attached.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to enriching the educational environment at The Lakes South Morang College.
Regards,
Bill Panas
Amanda Farrelly
College Principal
School Council President
2026 CURRICULUM CONTRIBUTIONS
PREP Prep Curriculum Charges Prep Booklist
VIA Year 5 - 6 VIA Booklist Year 7 VIA Booklist Year 8 VIA Booklist Year 9 VIA Booklist
YEAR 1 Year 1 Curriculum Charges Year 1 Booklist
YEAR 7 Year 7 Curriculum Charges Year 7 Booklist
YEAR 2 Year 2 Curriculum Charges Year 2 Booklist
YEAR 8 Year 8 Curriculum Charges Year 8 Booklist
YEAR 3 Year 3 Curriculum Charges Year 3 Booklist
YEAR 9 Year 9 Curriculum Charges Year 9 Booklist
YEAR 4 Year 4 Curriculum Charges Year 4 Booklist
YEAR 10 Year 10 Curriculum Charges Year 10 Booklist
YEAR 5 Year 5 Curriculum Charges Year 5 Booklist
Year 10 - 12 Early English Booklist
YEAR 6 Year 6 Curriculum Charges Year 6 Booklist
YEAR 11 and 12 Year 11 and 12 Curriculum Charges
Year 11 Booklist Year 12 Booklist
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION How to order resources with Campion Education Understanding the Parent Payment Policy BYOD Program
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter 2026 STAFF ORGANISATION CHART
The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COLLEGE CONNECTIONS
ART ON SHOW The Lakes ’ Visual Art students shone brightly at the Whittlesea Agricultural Society ’ s art competition on the theme “ Jobs in Agriculture. ” We ’ re absolutely delighted to announce that our students brought home four awards — a wonderful testament to their dedication, creativity, and old - fashioned hard work. Our selected students, whose artworks were judged by the competition ’ s art panel, proudly earned: 1st place in the category “ Best Exhibit by a Group .” This outstanding result was made possible thanks to the thoughtful and skillful work of: May Staples, Noah Bizimovski, Raina Reta, Raean Reta, William Thom, Aashna Gurung, Christina Tran, Phoenix Staas Hawkins, Ari Diver, and Rubi Armstrong.
But the celebrations don ’ t stop there!
2nd place in the 12 – 14 - year category went to Archer Paterson for his acrylic painting “ Simple Farm Life. ” 3rd place in the same category was awarded to Miriam Morris for her detailed pencil drawing of farm life — and, as the cherry on top, Miriam also received the judges ’ Overall Award for “ Best Artwork Depicting Careers in Agriculture .” A huge congratulations to all our talented young artists — you ’ ve done The Lakes proud!
The 2025 issue of Inspire is out now!
SOCIAL SCENE
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 UNIFORM PRICING
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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