CAPTAIN'S CORNER

SENIOR CAPTAIN 

As we move further into the term, the pace of the year is most certainly starting to pick up. Classrooms are starting to become a bit quieter as the first round of SACs has already begun for our senior students. While this time can feel a bit overwhelming to some, these SACs aren't just assessments. They are an opportunity for us to challenge ourselves, and reflect, and to build skills that we can carry through to our end of year exams.

As we begin our next unit of study, the Year 12 English cohort had the opportunity to take our learning outside the classroom with an excursion into the city. We visited ACMI to watch Sunset Boulevard, an experience that offered valuable insight into the themes and screenplay we will be exploring throughout the unit. 

It was a nice reminder for us that learning doesn’t always happen in a classroom. I couldn’t think of a better way to start a topic than watching a movie with 400 of your friends. A big thank you to ACMI for making this possible and being so insightful on the day.

On Wednesday, the school held our incredible annual House Music Night. House Music is one of those nights that truly brings our whole school together, and this year was no exception. Whether you were performing or cheering from the crowd with your friends, just being there was a blast. Over the past few weeks, our amazing House Music Captains have been working hard behind the scenes organising rehearsals and making sure every detail of their house’s performance was perfect. Their effort and dedication was evident on the night with memorable performances from all houses. Like every year House Music was an unforgettable night for the McKinnon community. 

I hope everyone came along to support their house (Go Monash!) and be a part of one of the most exciting nights of the school year.

So, as we move through the weeks ahead, I encourage everyone to keep supporting one another, get involved in the school community where you can, and make the most of the opportunities that come your way. The year is only just getting started, and there’s still so much to look forward to.

Gus Booth

Year 12 Student

JUNIOR CAPTAIN

As we get further into the first term, there are many significant events taking place across the school.

This year, our swimming carnival was held on Wednesday 25 March. It kicked off with the theme “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!” and the amount of energy and enthusiasm each person brought showed the true McKinnon spirit! From the cheers echoing across the pool to the determination shown in every race, the atmosphere was truly unforgettable. Students engaged in multiple diving and swimming competitions to win points for their house. 

First place went to Gilmore, followed by Flynn, Chisholm, and Monash. To add to the fun, the Interact Club ran a traditional sausage sizzle! Overall, the carnival was a fantastic success and a memorable experience for the entire school community.

This week, Years 7 and 9 students finished up NAPLAN testing for 2026. While NAPLAN assessments can sometimes feel overwhelming, they are an opportunity for students to show how they have developed in reading, writing, language conventions, and numeracy. Just remember, breathe, and give it your best effort. NAPLAN testing is not an end in itself, but an opportunity to reflect on how you have developed in these areas.

Other year levels have been very active in recent times with some fantastic opportunities. Our Year 8 students have started their Kummargee Challenges, which involve teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance. These challenges are an excellent opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones and build confidence while working together with their peers.

In addition to this, our Year 9 students have recently completed their Morrisby testing and career interviews during Wisdom and Service. This experience provides students with an opportunity to gain valuable insights into their strengths, interests, and potential future career paths.

It has been fantastic to see so many students getting involved in these opportunities.

Trisha Mehta

Year 9 Student