Principal’s Report
Strengthening relationships creates positive academic outcomes.
This week I have spent two days at a Principal Forum. As a lover of learning there was lots for me to engage in.
One of the presenters was Louka Parry, CEO and Founder of the Learning Future – thelearningfuture.com/. Louka is a former teacher and school principal. He is highly regarded for the work he has undertaken to transform learning environments, systems, and structures. His theoretical framework leans heavily on psychophysiology, and the convergence of social, emotional and academic learning.
Simply put, it is about ensuring our learners are developing positive social skills and relationships; building their emotional intelligence and resilience; and subsequently engaging in their academic pursuits with composure, focus and stamina.
This is why I am investing in the Berry Street Education Model. It may not have all the answers (no program has), however, it provides a framework around which to design teaching and learning. The following diagram captures the key elements.
Father and Son Night
Many of our activities this week have had a focus on helping students build their social and emotional capabilities.
A sincere thank you to Assistant Principal Mr Andrew Sloan for coordinating a very successful Father and Son Night. Led by presenter Mr Bill Jennings, and supported by Mr Sam Dachs our Mental Health Practitioner, over 100 fathers and their sons engaged in a very powerful workshop aimed at strengthening the communication and bond between them. The feedback was very positive and demonstrated the importance of such activities.
Year 9 Parent Information Night and Expo
Our Year 9 students were doing the teaching on Tuesday night, walking their parents through their Wominjeka projects. It was great to see how well our Year 9 students have settled in and able to lead scholarly conversations using knowledge from a wide range of academic disciplines.
Chinese Culture Club – Bubble Tea Stall
We got our sugar fix on Wednesday. Thank you to Mrs Phung Bui (Ivan Lu’s mum) for providing the expertise in the kitchen and thank you also to the Chinese Culture Club leaders for organising the event.
MHS/Mac Rob Year 12 Cup
On Wednesday, our seniors engaged in an afternoon of social sport at Forrest Hill. It was a great event and provided an opportunity for our graduating classes to blow off some steam, build friendships and demonstrate their sporting skills. As expected, whether in the classroom or on the field, our students are a competitive bunch. A sincere thank you to the staff and student leaders from both schools who made it all happen.
Student Representative Council Training Day
Thank you to Ms Capon and the student leaders for the work undertaken to organise the annual SRC training day. The 2024 leaders have shown they are very eager to lead their peers through a range of initiatives. The training day provided an opportunity to discuss ideas and sharpen their leadership skills and capabilities.
Curriculum Day – Wednesday 6 March
Next Wednesday our staff will have a day of professional development on the Berry Street Education Model. It will be a pupil free day. Students can use the day to catch up on sleep and assignments!
Dr Tony Mordini
Principal
News
- VCE Art Making & Exhibiting Success
- Career News Term 1 Week 5
- Special Exam Arrangements (repeat)
- Second Hand Uniform Shop: The SHUS is open in the Dining Hall at lunchtime every Friday in term 1 for sales. The SHUS is also currently looking for new volunteers to help out each week. If you would like to join the team please email mhssecondhanduniformshop@gmail.com.
- Canteen: The canteen is open every day except Thursday.
Events
- 27 March: Family Concert
