End of Term

Thank you to everyone for a successful Term 3. It has been a very busy time, with lots of events, excursions, camps and the production!

We would like to wish all of our staff and students a relaxing term break. We hope you get some time to relax and spend time doing things you enjoy.

Best wishes to the Class of ’24 as they complete their final preparations for the VCE exams.

Ms Andrea Coleridge & Ms Vicki Bunce will be on Long Service Leave for Term 4 and we extend best wishes to them for a enjoyable time.  We look forward to seeing you back in 2025!

Youth Day

Every year, the College celebrates Youth Day as a way to acknowledge our young people and their achievements. We organise an extended lunch break and provide a range of fun activities and food items to students to purchase. This massive event held on  21 August, was a smashing success. Thank you to our VCE-VM team for their hard work in putting this day together. Also a big thank you to staff who bravely volunteered for the dunk tank!

Wear it Purple Day

Friday August 30, was  Wear it Purple Day. Wear it Purple Day was founded in 2010 in response to global stories of real teenagers, real heartache and their very real responses. In 2010, several rainbow young people took their own lives following bullying and harassment resulting from the lack of acceptance of their sexuality or gender identity. This day is  about showing LGBTIQA+ young people that they have the right to be proud of who they are. It is about creating safe spaces in schools, universities, workplaces and public spaces to show LGBTIQA+ young people that they are seen and supported.

 

At our school, this is fundamental to all students feeling Connected Protected and Respected. To celebrate the day the College shared a short slide show presentation in classes to promote Wear it Purple Day and its important message. Staff wore purple and students were invited to wear Purple accessories on the day to publicly show their support for rainbow students at the College. There was also a lunch time market day with music, activities, purple hair spray and nail stations run by our VCE-VM students and Wellbeing Staff. Congratulations to all involved as inclusion is what our school is all about!

R U OK Day

The last day in our College Connect Protect Respect (CPR) calendar for this Term was R U OK? Day.  

R U OK? Day was celebrated at the College on Friday 13 September. R U OK? Day is a national day of action when we remind Australians that every day is the day to ask, ‘are you OK?’ and start a meaningful conversation whenever they spot the signs that someone they care about might be struggling with life. It is also a timely reminder that R U OK? Day, is just one day. For meaningful change R U OK? Day is also about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and making R U OK?, part of your everyday!  

You don’t need to be an expert to reach out – just a good friend and a great listener. Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:

1. Ask R U OK?
2. Listen
3. Encourage action
4. Check in

During this day, at SASC we shared a mini-lesson with students on how to support their peers. Our VCE-VM students and Wellbeing Team also organised a lunchtime event with live music, a sausage sizzle, external visitors and activities.  Well done to all involved!

If you need some help with your wellbeing  click here for support services that you can access.

National Child Protection Week – 1 to 7 September 2024

National Child Protection Week is about raising awareness for child safety with the overarching message that ‘Every child, in every community, needs a fair go’. In 2024, the National Child Protection Week message will be complemented with the theme- Every conversation matters.

As we all know, children and young people thrive when they grow up safe, connected and supported in their family, community and culture. They have the right to grow up in environments that support them according to their needs, now and into the future.

As a College we take our responsibilities for Child Protection very seriously. Our child safety policies, are regularly reviewed by staff and all teachers complete annual training on child safety and mandatory reporting. Our child safety policies can be found on our website.  

Child Protection week is a good time to stop and reflect on the role we all play in creating a supportive environment for every child so they feel Connected, Protected and Respected not just this week, but every week.

Yr 9 City Experience

This year’s city experience has proven to be a resounding success, thanks to the exemplary behaviour of our students, their reliability and the overwhelmingly positive feedback we’ve received from venues and the public.

One of the standout aspects of this City Experience was the outstanding behaviour exhibited by our students. Their enthusiasm and respect were evident from day one when they turned up on time and in full school uniform. We even received an email congratulating the school on the excellent behaviour of our students on the train. The email claimed that “their collective behaviour in every respect on that train was a credit to each of them and to your school”.

The success of the City Experience would not have been possible without the expert organisation from Katelyn Smith who presented at the parent information meeting. She made sure that every aspect of the program was planned to perfection.  Katelyn was supported by Katie O’Connell who outlined the event and made all the initial bookings before taking leave this term.  We thank them both for their dedication and commitment to the city experience program. Thank you also to the Middle Sub School team, the Humanities teachers, Inclusion team, and all staff who attended city experience and for making this year’s venture into the city such a success.

 

MAC We Will Rock You

This year St Albans Secondary College Music Appreciation Club presented the Queen inspired, We Will Rock You, as our performance piece. There were plenty of laughs and a great mix of well-known Queen songs as well as many lines from other songs and artists, cleverly woven into a dystopian future.  The production ran over 3 evenings along with two matinee performances.  We would like to take this opportunity to thank the cast and crew who did such a professional and entertaining job with the production. We particularly acknowledge the wonderful work of Ms Melissa Tamraz as the Director and Mr Nick D’Aglas as the Producer who was also the Artisitc Director and in charge of set design. The fabulous music was overseen by Ms Melrose Tran the Musical Director ably assisted by Mr James Orchard, Assistant Director.  The band, consisting mainly of existing students were amazing, and we thank all those involved with the musical accompaniment. There were memorable performances by the lead singers and actors consisting of Qhnsa Ahmed, Talia Bui, Dt Cairns, Ryan Chang, Thien Doan, John Nguyen, Api Nicol and Luca Phuong. Well done to all involved.

You can see more about the MAC performance, including photos of the cast in action, further in the newsletter.

 

 

 

 

General Office Hours 

8:15am to 4:15pm   

Compass Communication

Any important information will be sent to parents and families via the Compass News Feed.  Parents are asked to ensure that they have access to Compass.

 

 

 

 

General Office Payments

Preferred method of payment for School Events and Curriculum Contributions is via the Compass school management system.  Parents will log in to this system using their allocated unique User ID and a temporary password.  Payments can be made through the Action Centre from the home screen.  Please contact the General Office on 9366 2555 should you need further information. 

 

 

 

    

ID Cards

Students are reminded that they require their ID cards with them when they present to the front office.

Lost or Damaged Id Cards

• go the ‘Organisation’ menu (grid icon)
• select ‘Identity Cards’.
• in the ‘Orders’ section, click ‘Individual Orders’.
• complete the details to order the card

A payment will be required when placing your order.

When the card arrives, it will need to be activated.  Follow the steps below to activiate the card.

• go the ‘Organisation’ menu (grid icon)
• select ‘Identity Cards’
• click on ‘Individual Activation’
• complete the information on the screen to activate the card.

The office will no longer be taking payment for replacement cards.  Please contact the office on 9366 2555 if you have any queries.

Student Lunches at the General Office

Families are advised that the General Office is unable to accept lunches for student collection.  Please discuss and prepare for a different course of action with your child, should they forget to bring their lunch to school.

If your child has forgotten their lunch at home, parents can leave money in an envelope for their student to collect at the office.  The canteen has an array of choices for your child to purchase their lunch.

College Expectations 

Attendance, Uniform, Punctuality  

We greatly appreciate the support we receive from parents to make sure that your child attends school regularly and punctually, is in full uniform, and is well prepared for all classes with books and equipment.

 Attendance  

Students must have a minimum of 90% attendance in all classes at each year level.

Uniform  

Full uniform must be worn to and from school, at school and on all school excursions, including interschool sports.

Punctuality  

Students are expected to be punctual at the start of each day and for all classes. Any student who is late more than 4 times will have a Friday detention from 3:20pm to 5:20pm. 

Sustainable School Shop

The Sustainable School Shop website is available to purchase and/or sell second-hand uniforms and used textbooks.

 Parents can log in or register at any time at  www.sustainableschoolshop.com.au

When selling items, click the Sell Uniforms button and follow the prompts. Assistance is given to construct your “For Sale” ads including a pricing guide.

To see the ads for items currently on sale or to obtain the seller details, you will need to log-in to the Sustainable School Shop website, click the blue Stocktake button and then click the item you need. Buyers contact the seller directly.

 Sellers are asked to delist For Sale Ads as items sell.

Student Absence 

Parents and guardians are now able to leave student absence messages directly with the relevant Sub School.

Follow the telephone prompts to be connected to the Sub School needed.

• Wait for the beep before leaving a message
• State who you are, eg:  I am the parent of ……..  and clearly state your child’s name and home group
• Clearly state the reason for your child’s absence and how long they will be absent for

Please ensure that your message is audible (not on speaker phone) and there is no background noise.  

Camps, Sports, Events Fund (CSEF)

Parents with a valid Health Care Card may be eligible to apply for the CSEF.  The CSEF is a yearly payment for each child in the family attending our College.  This payment is to assist with the cost of Camps, Sports and Excursions for your child to attend. 

Applications for the 2024 CSEF have now closed.

State School Relief (SSR)

Should you have a valid Health Care Card and require assistance to purchase school uniform and/or school shoes; you may be eligible for SSR. Health Care Card holders with students enrolled in the VCE VM program may also be eligible for assistance with the purchase of personal protective gear. Please enquire at the General Office.

 

 

Friday, 20 September 2024

Last Day of Term 3 – Dismissal 2:30PM

09:45AM – 10:35AM Lockdown Drill

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Term Break – Yr 12 Practice Exams

 

Monday, 30 September 2024

08:55AM – 12:10PM Yr 12 English Practice Exam

08:55AM – 12:10PM Yr 12 English as an Additional Language (EAL) Practice Exam

01:15PM – 03:00PM Yr 12 General Maths Practice Exam 1

Tuesday, 1 October 2024

08:55AM – 11:40AM Yr 12 Biology Practice Exam

12:15PM – 01:30PM Yr 12 Maths Methods Practice Exam 1

03:30PM – 05:15PM Yr 12 Legal Studies Practice Exam

Wednesday, 2 October 2024

08:55AM – 11:40AM Yr 12 Chemistry Practice Exam

12:15AM – 02:30PM Yr 12 Health & Human Development Practice Exam

12:15PM – 01:30PM Yr 12 Specialist Maths Practice Exam 1

03:00PM – 04:45PM Yr 12 General Maths Practice Exam 2

Thursday, 3 October 2024

08:55AM – 10:40AM Yr 12 Art Making & Exhibiting Practice Exam

08:55AM – 11:40AM Yr 12 Physics Practice Exam

12:15PM – 02:30PM Yr 12 Business Management Practice Exam

12:15PM – 02:30PM Yr 12 Maths Methods Practice Exam 2

03:00PM – 04:45PM Yr 12 Visual Communication Design Practice Exam

03:00PM – 05:15PM Yr 12 Economics Exam

Friday, 4 October 2024

08:55AM – 11:40AM Yr 12 Psychology Practice Exam

12:15PM – 02:00PM Yr 12 Food Studies Practice Exam

12:15PM – 02:30PM Yr 12 Vietnamese (1st Language) Practice Exam

12:15PM – 02:30PM Yr 12 Physical Education Practice Exam

12:15PM – 02:30PM Yr 12 Specialist Maths Practice Exam 2

03:00PM – 05:15PM Yr 12 Accounting Practice Exam

03:00PM – 05:15PM Yr 12 Japanese (2nd Language) Practice Exam

03:00PM – 05:15PM Yr 12 History (Revolutions) Pracice Exam

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Monday, 7 October 2024

Term 4 Begins

11:00AM – 11:50AM Emotional Regulation Skills Group

01:30PM – 02:20PM Yr 10 & 11 CPR Ambassador Program

Tuesday, 8 Ocotber 2024

11:00AM – 11:50AM Yr 7, 8 & 9 CPR Ambassador Program

Wednesday, 9 October 2024

08:30AM – 03:00PM WMR Athletics

08:35AM – 03:10PM Buxton Gallery VCA Access Program

08:45AM – 03:10PM Yr 8K Strathbogie Camp

08:55AM – 09:45AM Yr 7 Assembly

09:45AM – 10:35AM Yr 8 Assembly

11:00AM – 11:50AM Yr 9 Assembly

11:50AM – 12:40PM Yr 11 Assembly

01:30PM – 02:20PM Yr 10 Assembly

12:40PM – 01:30PM Yr 11 Captain Speeches

12:40PM – 01:30PM Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing Workshop

Thursday, 10 October 2024

08:45AM – 03:10PM Yr 8K Strathbogie Camp

08:15AM – 04:00PM Yr 7 & 8 STEM Edge

08:55AM – 03:10PM Yr 11 Psychology ArtVo 

08:55AM – 12:00PM Travel Training Swinburne

11:50AM – 12:40PM STOMP

12:40PM – 01:30PM Silent Reading Party in the Library

Friday, 11 October 2024

08:45AM – 03:10PM Yr 8K Strathbogie Camp

11:00AM – 12:40PM Brush and Bloom

12:40PM – 01:30PM SRC Carnival

Monday, 14 Ocotber 2024

All Day Yr 12 VCE VM Portfolio Interviews

11:00AM – 11:50AM Emotional Regulation Skills Group

12:40PM – 01:30PM Mental Health Movie Session

Tuesday, 15 Ocotber 2024

All Day Yr 12 VCE VM Portfolio Interviews

08:30AM – 03:10PM Forensic Science GTAC

11:00AM – 12:15PM Foodbank Supermarket

12:40PM – 01:30PM Mental Health Movie Session

Wednesday, 16 October 2024

All Day Yr 12 VCE VM Portfolio Interviews

08:55AM – 03:10PM Yr 8J Strathogie Camp

11:50AM – 12:40PM Africause Program

12:40PM – 01:30PM Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing Workshop

02:20PM – 03:10PM SHINE

Thursday, 17 October 2024

All Day Grade 6 – Big Day In

08:30AM – 03:10PM Junior Boys Baseball

08:30AM – 03:10PM Junior Girls Softball

08:55AM – 03:10PM Yr 8J Strathbogie Camp

11:50AM – 12:40PM STOMP

12:40PM – 01:30PM Silent Reading Party in the Library

02:20PM – 03:10PM Ganbu Gulin Program

Friday, 18 October 2024

Last Day Yr 12 Classes

08:55AM – 03:10PM Yr 8J Strathbogie Camp

11:00AM – 12:40PM Brush and Bloom

07:00PM – 09:00PM Yr 12 Awards Night (Flemington Reacecourse)

Monday, 21 October 2024

08:45AM – 10:35AM Whole School Assembly

11:00AM – 11:50AM Emotional Regulation Skills Group

Tuesday, 22 October 2024

08:00AM – 03:10PM Yr 10 History – Melbourne Holocaust Museum

08:15AM – 03:15PM Yr 9C & 9M Marine Discovery Centre

Wednesday, 23 Ocotber 2024

08:00AM – 03:00PM Yr 10 History – Melbourne Holocaust Museum

08:30AM – 03:15PM Yr 8F Strathbogie Camp

12:40PM – 01:30PM Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing Workshop

03:30PM – 05:00PM Yr 11 Medea by Complete Works Theatre

Thursday, 24 October 2024

08:15AM – 03:15PM Yr 9A & 9E Marine Discovery Centre

08:30AM – 03:15PM Yr 8F Strathbogie Camp

08:55AM – 12:00PM travel Training Swinburne

11:50AM – 12:40PM STOMP

12:40PM – 01:30PM Silent Reading Party in the Library

02:20PM – 03:10PM Ganby Gulin Program

Friday, 25 October 2024

08:15AM – 03:00PM WMR Yr 7 Girls Table Tennis

08:30AM – 03:15PM Yr 8F Strathbogie Camp

08:30AM – 03:00PM Yr 7 Boys Futsal

08:45AM – 03:15PM Yr 7C & 8C Design Thinking – Creating a Bionic Arm

11:00AM – 12:40PM Brush & Bloom

Monday, 28 October 2024

08:45AM – 04:00PM Yr 9L Marine Discovery Centre

11:00AM – 11:50AM Emotional Regulation Skills Group

Tuesday, 29 October 2024

All Day Yr 12 VCAA Exams Begin

Wednesday, 30 October 2024

08:30AM – 03:15PM Yr 8G Strathbogie Camp

12:40PM – 01:30PM Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing Workshop

02:20PM – 03:10PM SHINE

Thursday, 31 October 2024

08:15AM – 03:00PM WMR Yr 8 boys Table Tennis

08:30AM – 03:15PM Yr 8G Strathbogie Camp

11:50AM – 12:40PM STOMP

12:40PM – 01:30PM Silent Reading in the Library

02:20PM – 03:10PM Ganbu Gulin Program

 

 

 

                                   

 

 Yuika Yamada

Hi, my name is Yuika. I’m excited to join St Albans Secondary College as I pursue my goal of becoming a teacher, with plans to begin teaching next year. My background is in animal care, and I have a great love for dogs. I have few dogs and love spending time with them as much as I can. 

I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and am always open to chatting about anything.

Thank you. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuan Le

My teaching journey began in 1990 at Hoppers Crossing Secondary College, since then I have taught in six other schools in Victoria.

As an asylum seeker, I faced many challenges, including being denied educational opportunities in Vietnam after the Vietnam war. I arrived in Australia as a refugee in 1981, pursued music performance studies at WAAPA and later earnt a Bachelor of Music Education at the University of Melbourne.

I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher, especially supporting young people who have been denied educational opportunities in their home countries.

Now I feel that St. Albans Secondary College is the school where I can continue to inspire and make a positive contribution to our students.

 

 

 

                           

 

  Jaderick Calimlim

Hello, my name is Jaderick and I am extremely grateful and excited to be joining St Albans Secondary College as part of the Education support team. I have previous experience from placements assisting students in their learning and am excited at using this experience to further student learning.

As a former student I am very excited to see what has changed and what has remained the same as, and to further develop new and more positive memories of the school as an aid.

I am looking forward to seeing you and meeting you all!

 

 

 

 

 

 

School Saving Bonus (SSB)

 

In Term 4, 2024, families with a child enrolled in a government school from Prep to Year 12 in 2025 will 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.   
 
Actions for Parents and Carers

Before 18 October 2024, the Department of Education is asking parents and carers to:

• Complete enrolment: If your child, or children are changing government school for Term 1 2025, or starting Prep or Year 7 in 2025. For more information, read about Enrolling in School. 
• Check your contact information: Ensure your email address and phone number is up to date with us. If your contact information needs updating send an email to update.my.details@stalbanssc.vic.edu.au 

In your email include the following information:

• – Student/s name/s
• – Parent 1 – Name, mobile number and email address
• – Parent 2 – Name, mobile number and email address

We need to ensure your contact information is up to date as the Department of Education will email you twice:

• in October, to verify your email address
• in November, with your $400 School Saving Bonus.

Please check your junk mail regularly to make sure you do not miss an important email.

To learn more about the School Saving Bonus, download the School Saving Bonus Information sheet for government school parents and carers or visit vic.gov.au/school-saving-bonus.

 

This term the Junior School students were treated to an incursion from Brainstorm Productions.  They performed a two person show called Sticks and Stones.  This production explored themes of bullying, harassment and aggression.  The energetic team examined the influence of peers, family, social media and gaming to provide an engaging and thought provoking show.  Further, the show provided modelling of a range of strategies to deal with some of these problems, such as emotional regulation, assertiveness, resilience and seeking help.

 

The show worked in tandem with a recent presentation from Digital Thumbprint, that dealt with safe online behaviour. 

The issues raised by both Brainstorm Productions and Digital Thumbprint are a daily reality for some of our students.  We acknowledge that this can be a difficult period in the lives of young people and are committed to providing assistance and helping with strategies.  We request the assistance of parents, guardians and carers in dealing with these issues as well.  We acknowledge that governments may also have a role to play and follow recent discussions regarding banning young people from social media with interest.

On another note the Year 8 students have been attending the Strathbogie Camp through Term 3.  This will continue into Term 4.  Please ensure that consent forms, payment and medical forms are completed and returned either via Compass or in hard copy in a timely manner to assist with camp planning.  The camps are a vital part of the curriculum.

 

 

Mr Craig Moore – Junior Sub School Leader

And just like that Term 3 is behind us. The second half of the term has had a real focus on students in the classroom and maximising their academic learning. With Parent Teacher Interviews at the end of this term and Year 9 Semester Tests and Year 10 Exams running in the middle of next term, working through the curriculum has become the main target. The middle school students have persisted through the term and are hopefully progressing towards these big academic milestones next term.

 

Even though Term 3 has had a heavy academic focus there has still been plenty of extracurriculuar events for the students to participate in. Our school was very well represented at the district level athletics carnival with many students progressing to the regional level next month. The Africause Program has been running and has provided skills in leadership and decision making for the students involved. The REST program for a select group of Year 9 students, overseen by a teacher external to the college, has also been regularly running. The latest excursion to the 1000 Steps in the Dandenong Ranges provided a physical challenge that cannot be provided in the classroom.

One of the largest events of the year in the middle school is the annual Year 9 City Experience, which was held in Week 9 this term. The program took students out of their comfort zone and exposed them to many of Melbourne’s tourist attractions. The Melbourne Goal, Ice Skating and a cruise down the Yarra River to Williamstown a few of the highlights. We are incredibly proud of how the students conducted themselves. It is clear they are a respectful, organised and enthusiastic year level and we look forward to future events with them. We hope it was an enjoyable experience for them and has hopefully taught them a few useful life skills that they can begin to put into practice as they continue to gain their independence.

 

The Term 3 holidays are here so I’d like to take the time to wish our students and families a safe and enjoyable break. The weather will only improve from here and we look forward to welcoming our students back at the beginning of next term. It is a big term for both Year 9 and 10 so let’s hit the ground running and finish the year off as well as we can.

 

Mr Owen McIntyre – Middle Sub School Leader

 

This time of year is usually filled with lots of study, hard work and anticipation as our Year 12 students are preparing to conclude their final year of study. We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and resilience, and we wish them all the best as they prepare for their practice and end-of-year exams/portfolio interviews. As they navigate this important time, we encourage our students to lean on their support networks—friends, family, teachers, year level coordinators and the wellbeing team, who are all here to help them succeed. We look forward to celebrating their milestones and the bright futures that lie ahead.

Last Day of Classes

The last day of classes for Year 12 students is Friday 18 October. Classes will run as per normal from periods 1 – 3. The period 3 teacher will take the class to the front of the school for “uniform signing” at 11.30am. Students will be dismissed from the front gardens at 11:50am. Students are expected to go straight home to prepare for the Awards Evening. Lockers must be cleaned out by this date. Any items remaining in lockers after this date will be thrown out or donated. Last day of Year 11 classes is Friday 1 November 2024.

Units 3/4 September Exams

Will be held during the second week of the school holidays from Monday 30 September to Friday 4 October 2024. All students sitting the VCAA exams are expected to attend. The timetable for the exams can be found on the student’s individual schedules on Compass.

Year 12 Awards Evening

We have a new venue this year for our Year 12 Awards Evening – The Atrium, Flemington Racecourse, 448 Epsom Road, Flemington VIC 3031. Students are able to invite two guests free of charge. Please book your tickets at https://www.trybooking.com/CURKW by Monday 7 October 2024.

A further release of one ticket per student at $20.00 will be available early next term.

Students are required to be at the venue no later than 4:00pm for gown fitting and rehearsal. Doors will open for guests at 6:40pm for seating. The Ceremony will start at 7:00pm SHARP. Guests who arrive after 7:00pm may need to wait in the foyer until instructed by the ushers for seating during a suitable time. We look forward to celebrating with you all on this special occasion.

Whole School Assembly & Celebration Day

The whole school assembly will run during periods 3 and 4 on Monday 21 October. Students can dress up in school-appropriate fancy dress attire, if they like. Students are not to wear items that obscure the face, are offensive or carry fake weapons.

The Year 12 students will assemble in the gymnasium from 10:00am to 10:30am. A photobooth will be available for use. During the ceremony, students are to remain seated, listen respectfully and adhere to the usual protocols. Students will be provided with a lunch. The celebration will conclude at 1:30pm.

VCAA Exams

The VCAA written exams will run Tuesday 29 October to Wednesday 20 November 2024.

Students have been provided with the following instructions:

• Arrive at the venue 30 minutes before the start of each exam.
• Check seating plan on Compass for details of seating/rows BEFORE each exam.
• Water bottles must have no labels and are clear.
• Pencil case must be totally clear.
• No white-out allowed in exams.
• Check Exam Navigator for details of what is allowed into each exam. Exam Navigator can be found on the VCAA website or by clicking this link: https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Documents/Navigator/VCEExamsNavigator2024.pdf
• Mobile phones, smart watches or any electronic device where information can be transmitted MUST NOT be taken into the exam room. They are to be left at home or in your bag during examinations.
• No hats, hoodies, scarves, jackets with pockets are to be worn in the exam room.

Performance and Languages oral examinations start on Monday 7 October to Sunday 22 October. Students have been given individual times.

Year 12 VCE VM Interviews

The VCE VM students will be required to present their portfolios on Monday 14 October to Wednesday 16 October. Students will be allocated a 15 minute time slot to present in front of a panel. Students will need to bring their completed portfolio and notes to the interviews. Students are to wear neat business attire.

Year 11 & Year 12 Orientation Programs

Students will start their Units 1 or 3 coursework during the orientation block. Year 11 into Year 12 Orientation starts on the 13 November to 27 November. VCE VM orientation will be held 18 to 20 November. Year 10 into Year 11 Orientation starts 28 November to 5 December. Year 11 VCE VM orientation will be held from 28 to 29 November.

Year 11 VCE VM Workplacment Block

A work placement block will run from 6 November to 15 November for all Year 11 VCE VM students. If your child is in Year 11 VCE VM, please ensure they have secured a placement with their employer and a contact and all relevant paperwork has been completed.

Year 12 Formal

The Year 12 Formal is a beautiful celebration – the culmination of the students’ St Albans Secondary College journey. It will be held on Friday 15 November at Luxor Function Centre, 503 Sydenham Road Taylors Lakes, 3038. Tickets will be available for purchase at $90.00 from the front office next term. Formal dress attire is required for this alcohol-free event. Students are to arrive at 6.30pm, for a 7:00pm start. Finishing time at 11:30 pm.

ABCN Program

The ABCN program is a leadership program organised by Mr Olthof, which focusses on goal setting, networking and mentorship. Twenty emerging Year 11 student female leaders participated in the program. It was a huge success, and we would like to share the results of the program with you. See below.

Student Evaluation Summary Focus Program

The following are summarised student response results demonstrating the percentage improvement from the program’s start to the end.  (Note: the rating scale is a 1 to 7 measure with 1 being the lowest and 7 being the highest. i.e., 5 to 7 is ‘agree’ to ‘strongly agree’.)  These results demonstrate that the students gained a lot from the program and their time with their mentors.

Here are some Student Comments:

• Managing time and learning new things about people and about leadership, what is it and how it can be viewed in a range of new perspectives and receiving feedback on how to be better on yourself
• I learnt that failure is ok and necessary for us to grow and improve
• That I am capable of doing anything as long as I know the strengths I need
• That people are capable of doing great things if you keep going and never doubt or give up on your ambitions and dreams
• Finding out the different skills that I possess
• I think its important to appreciate the little wins and that making mistakes is ok
• It’s good to develop our social skills and learn to work with different people
• Take your time, there are different paths you can choose and the one you enjoy the most with make you happy

 

 

Ms Marlene Cassar – Senior Sub School Leader

 

Yr 10 & 11 Biomedical Sciences Day

 

On Thursday 15 August, twenty-four Year 10 and 11 students, along with Ms Phuong Le and Mr Myers Nguyen, attended the Biomedical Sciences Day excursion at the University of Melbourne & GTAC.

Below are various students’ thoughts of the day:

‘Attending Biomedical Sciences Day at GTAC and Melbourne University was an eye-opening experience that deeply enriched my understanding of the multifaceted exploration of human anatomy and pathology. The opportunity to view real anatomical specimens and observe intricate pathological anomalies in the museum was fascinating to witness. Similarly, the microscope investigation of different diseases enlightened me on the subtle differences of abnormal and normal cells. While engaging with VR technology, it helped me visualise the heart’s complex mechanisms and provided valuable insights into seeing the functions of the heart including: the intensity of heartbeats, the shape of the heart, etc. Throughout the Q&A session, consisting of several Melbourne University students, I was able to resonate with the aspirations of those students who achieved their placement in the course, inspiring me to work diligently and persistently in class. These experiences collectively highlighted the complexity and diversity of human biological systems, deepening my appreciation for the field of biomedical sciences.’ – Stephanie Truong (10D)

‘Our day began at GTAC with an enlightening presentation by Professor Wilkinson-Berka, the head of the Biomedical Sciences department, who provided an in-depth look into studying Biomedical Science at the University of Melbourne. This presentation highlighted the various pathways and majors available, which helped me consider my future academic options. The highlight of the day was our exclusive visit to the Harry Brookes Allen Museum of Anatomy and Pathology at UniMelb. Since the museum is not open to the general public, this visit felt incredibly special and like an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Seeing the human body and its abnormalities up close, in a field I’m passionate about, was truly surreal. Overall, the excursion was both enjoyable and inspiring, heightening my excitement for university life.’ – Dennis Tran (11F)

‘Being able to have the opportunity to spend the day extending my knowledge in the biomedical field with the utilisation of various simulations, tours, and the GTAC laboratory to assist, has certainly made me grow my interest in the field of pathology. In particular, the Harry Brookes Allen Museum of Anatomy and Pathology was my favourite, as I was able to freely look at an assortment of real preserved human tissue specimens, and was able to see different bones that have experienced trauma and thus malunion. I also enjoyed the GTAC laboratory, as it was the first time I was able to use a fluorescence microscope to look at skin cells, which resulted in an alluring galaxy-like image.’ – Kaitlyn Au (10D)

‘The tour of the Harry Brookes Allen Museum of Anatomy and Pathology fascinated me the most out of the entire day. The museum provided me more insight on how the human body works and the effects of certain conditions on the body. I found the museum the most interesting as it aligns with my future dream careers, forensic medical examiner/pathologist. Overall, my experience on Biomedical Sciences Day at GTAC & Melbourne University was very interesting and entertaining, if I had an opportunity to go again, I would.’ – Ajouk Akol (11A)

‘…we had a fascinating and immersive experience at the exclusive museum of anatomy and pathology exhibit, that allowed us to see real human body parts up close, where we had a peculiar perspective on the intricacies of the human body. The Q&A session with student ambassadors from Melbourne University was particularly insightful, especially as students studying VCE and aspiring to pursue a higher degree of education, as we gained a deeper understanding of life as a Melbourne university student and learned about the various courses offered. The highlight of the day was the realistic VR experience, which simulated real-world scenarios and gave us a taste of the innovative technology used in biomedical sciences. Overall, the day was filled with engaging and interactive experiences that not only expanded our knowledge but also sparked interest in pursuing a career in biomedical sciences.’ – Ngoc Trinh (11F) & Angela Vu (10D)

 

 

Mr Myers Nguyen – Science Teacher

 

Oh, what an extraordinary journey it was to direct my very first MAC production at SASC! I was truly surrounded by the most incredible team, a group of passionate souls whose unwavering dedication ignited our journey. My heartfelt gratitude and thunderous applause go to the extraordinary Mr. D’Aglas, the brilliant Ms. Tran, the inspiring Mr. Orchard, and the radiant Ms. Shone. They are nothing short of extraordinary! And let us not forget the divine choreography of the awe-inspiring Ms. Vincent, the graceful Ms. Seely, and the incredible Ms. Hocking—whose artistry lights up the stage and dances through our very hearts! Without this phenomenal team, the anthem “We Will Rock You” would have “rocked” no one! Their collective spirit and relentless energy breathed life into our vision and transformed it into something profoundly unforgettable!

My heart swells with pride as I reflect on the students, who poured every ounce of their passion and dedication into this endeavour. By the time we reached that breathtaking final performance, they were not just shining; they were radiating pure light, brimming with confidence and joy! It was nothing short of a miracle to witness the magic of theatre weave its spell over us all, uniting everyone in a breathtaking celebration of creativity and spirit. What an indescribable joy to see their faces alight with happiness, as they embraced the art that had brought us all together!

I have been part of the MAC crew since Year 10, and with “We Will Rock You” as my last performance, I made sure to go out with a BANG!

For 3 years, MAC was my escape from school and home. Rehearsal would never be boring for you have things to learn, practice and perfect; Sure, this year there were clashes between rehearsals, my work experience and VET class, however, I didn’t let those drag me down.

I was a bit iffy about joining this year’s productions, for I wanted to focus on my studies and portfolio; However, with many encouragements from teachers and students, with pressure from certain people (*Cough* DT, *Cough* Thien, *Cough* Ryan.), I decided to once again sign up; Boy was this year a wild ride.

I delved into the history of rock, an essential aspect of the musical. I researched the real-life person behind my character, Buddy, and learned the slang of that time. I even had to mispronounce ‘Video Tape’ on purpose! And yes, if a microwave had been available on set, you can bet I would’ve said it like “Mik-ro-wa-vey.” Oh! And don’t forget my excessive Improv, I felt Ms Tamraz’s glare, but hey! The show must go on, and It absolutely did!

As the audience, what you see on stage is glamorous and effortless- but there’s hardwork, dedication, sweat and tears (Yes, we actually shed tears) poured into the making of the production. You learn to work as a team outside your standard classroom, gain skills and advice in productions/theatre, while also making new friends, bonding over your time in MAC.

The fact I have people wanting me to fail year 12 so I could do MAC once again, warms my heart, but no! I’m sorry to disappoint, my adoptive junkyard children, I WON’T be repeating the year… but the urge to come back after graduating and help out next year’s production is strong. – Qhansa Ahmed Yr 12

 

Ms Melissa Tamraz – English | Humanities | Dance | MAC Director

The following article appeared in the Westsider Newspaper on Sept 1, written by teacher Ms Amra Pajalic showcasing our school’s young talent in the field of art.

 

 

Mr Nick D’Aglas – Arts Coordinator

 

Year 7 Girls Table Tennis Team

Congratulations to our Year 7 Girls Table Tennis Team—Manaal Waqar, Nyah Tao, Alanna Quach, Kathlyn Phan, Mya Pham, and Cailyn Leong—on their outstanding performance at the Western Region Table Tennis Competition! After three weeks of dedicated training, the girls faced off against Keilor Downs College and secured a flawless 6-0 victory.

This fantastic win advances our team to the metro finals in Geelong, where they will compete against the best schools in the western suburbs. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and teamwork.

Let’s go, girls—onto the finals!

 

Year 8 Boys Table Tennis Team

Our Year 8 Boys Table Tennis Team—Kaden Leong, Andy Tai, Dat Ma, Srish Naidu, Jadyn Nguyen, and Nathan Nigatu—have been on an incredible journey in the Western Region Table Tennis Competition! After three weeks of rigorous training, the boys faced off against Keilor Downs College and Springside West Secondary College, dominating both schools and securing their place in the grand final.

In the final showdown against Victoria University, the team once again showcased their skills, winning every match to move on to the Western Region Finals. Their undefeated streak and remarkable teamwork have brought them to the metro finals in Geelong, where they will compete against the best schools in the western suburbs.

Let’s go, boys—bring home the trophy!

 

 

Mr Vo & Mr Dang – Table Tennis Coaches

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Junior and Intermediate Girls Basketball

On Tuesday 27 of August the Junior and Intermediate Girls attended the first round of Interschool Basketball. Both groups played Springside West and Sydenham in their respective rounds with the Intermediate Girls winning one of their games. This allowed them to play in the 3^rd place playoff against Victoria University. The Junior Girls played very well but were unable to make a 3^rd place play off. Both teams worked well and improved with each game they played.

Ms Meaghan Hocking – Basketball Coach

 

Animation in Language

This term students of Italian at Year 9 and 10 are using an animation Platform called Animaker to present their learning on the topics of Music and Work and future plans.

Students are required every Semester to display their learning of vocabulary and grammar through an oral presentation where they also showcase their pronunciation, pacing and register.

This year they have the opportunity to display their learning using a variety of animation platforms where they are able to create a short video, personalizing characters, backgrounds and features whilst also producing a voice-over for text.

Student feedback indicated that they enjoyed the planning and editing program and that it allowed them to have some agency around their presentations.

We look forward to watching all the videos in class and sharing in their success.

 

Mrs Piera Bentley – Italian Teacher

 

The Library wishes to thank all staff who dressed up for the 2024 Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book Week theme Reading is Magic. As usual, St Albans staff truly made it a magical occasion with their costume creations. Thank you to all who celebrated. We believe reading is magical! 

As part of the CBCA celebration, we had West Australian author Mark Greenwood come to our library to present to students.  Students and staff were taken on a historical journey across Australia.  We also learned some homegrown stories that we may not have been aware of.  We were indeed fortunate to have Mark.  We believe a few, new, history hunters walked out the door after his presentation. Happy reading and history hunting!

 

Ms Natalya Hawrylak – Teacher Librarian | English

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