CAPTAIN'S CORNER

SENIOR SCHOOL CAPTAIN 

What a packed first week of Term 3! I hope all students had a smooth transition back into learning and studying, and that parents are enjoying the peace and quiet with their children back at school.

Term 3 has an exciting schedule for both the junior and senior school. The Year 12s received a nice welcome-back gift in the form of a trial English exam on their first day back, followed by an intense week of oral presentations. This involved students researching a topic that interested them and presenting a five-minute speech to a panel of teachers. It has certainly been a busy start for the Year 12s as they begin their final full term of school ever. 

How exciting!

All of the McKinnon Captains worked together to plan and run McKinnon’s first ever Fight MND Big Freeze Fundraiser. This was such a creative way to raise awareness of the dangers of motor neuron disease (MND) by recreating the AFL’s Big Freeze where a number of teachers volunteered to dress up and be dunked with ice cold water. 

Rounding out this jam-packed start to the term is the Athletics Carnival, a whole-school event where students are encouraged to dress up and showcase their athletic ability at the Duncan Mackinnon Reserve. The theme selected by our Sports Captains is the 2000s, so think Backstreet Boys, Justin Bieber, Spice Girls and One direction for some inspiration. 

For all Year 12s this marks another special occasion as it is their last Athletics Carnival. Year 12 students will have the opportunity to try Quidditch and other team sports to win points for their houses, while students in other year levels are encouraged to participate in all events to earn points for their house, and hopefully make it to the next round of athletics. 

On behalf of McKinnon Secondary College, I hope everyone has found the return to school accommodating and are ready to learn as well as embrace the challenges ahead. We are already halfway through the school year, but there is still plenty of time to study harder, make new friends and try new things. 

Benny Baldwin

Year 12 Student

JUNIOR SCHOOL CAPTAIN 

Before the holidays, from 24 - 26 June, all Year 9 students participated in the Wisdom and Service Job Skills Program. Across the three days, students took part in a variety of workshops and excursions designed to help them jump into action and develop some new valuable workplace and life skills.

Students enjoyed a range of exciting excursions, including a hospitality training session in the city, where they learned how to make coffee like a barista, and serve tables like a professional and froth milk to perfection. 

Students also visited SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium and the RSPCA, where they explored different career pathways and gained hands-on experience. 

Back on campus, students completed engaging courses such as Retail Skills, Leadership Training, Sewing, Customer Service, and Life Hacks, while building communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

The program was an enjoyable and rewarding experience that encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, develop confidence, and prepare for future employment. It provided valuable skills that students can use both in the workplace and in everyday life.

Sid Noble

Year 9 Student