Starting off with a bang: The start of the school year has been filled with plenty of excitement, new faces and a commitment to further strengthen and solidify our learning culture. We've welcomed several new staff members to our team across both Primary and Secondary schools, Kate Marsden, Sonia Vengust, Jotishna Chand, Fiona Clarke, Prafulla Shetty, Casey Lee, Casey Davine, Kerin Zhang, Anya Gross, Andrea Kocevska, Syan Krishnan, Sarah Kinder and Ushani Rodrigo. Each bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to our community and we look forward to the many ways they will help shape the future of our students.
Preparing for Success in VCE: At the beginning of each school year, our Year 12 and Year 11 students participate in their retreats, designed to prepare them for the challenges ahead in their VCE years. These retreats are not only about academic readiness, but also about setting the right headspace, grounding students with purpose, resilience and focus for the year ahead. These experiences include a mix of practical workshops, team building activities and reflective moments, all aimed at creating a strong foundation. Our goal is to ensure that our students feel ready, supported and motivated as they embark on their important journey ahead.
Building Strong Connections: Our school camps are an annual highlight, allowing students to step outside the classroom and immerse themselves in unique experiences that foster personal growth and team spirit. This year, Year 3 students headed to Mill Valley Ranch where they enjoyed outdoor activities and formed lasting memories. Year 5 students visited Sovereign Hill immersing themselves in the rich history of our region, while Year 6 students travelled to Canberra for a deeper understanding of our nation’s capital and its significance. These camps are vital in building important sustainable learning relationships among staff, peers and within our students.
A Record Turnout: We recently held our Open Day at the College and we are thrilled to report that it was our biggest turnout to date. It was a wonderful opportunity for prospective families to explore our campus, engage with staff and learn more about the values and educational offerings of Lakeside College and take home a tasty treat.
Supporting Vulnerable Children: Lakeside College staff recently participated in the ALWS Walk My Way fundraiser held at Good News Lutheran College in Tarneit. This event raises funds to support vulnerable children impacted by poverty and war in regions such as Somalia, South Sudan, Kenya, Burundi, Bangladesh, Nepal and Ukraine. Our College has already participated in various fundraising initiatives, including a Pancake for Purpose event and a casual dress day as part of our Secondary Wellbeing Day with many more fundraising events planned for the future to donate funds to this important cause.
Reconciliation Week: Reconciliation Week at Lakeside College | 12–16 May.
Lakeside College proudly continues the conversation about how we can support and contribute toward the journey of Reconciliation. During our reconciliation week, we began with a whole school Opening Ceremony that featured a powerful Yidaki performance, traditional dance and cultural workshops that brought our community together in learning and reflection.
These connections continued throughout the week with an exciting Indigenous Dance Incursion and our very own Lakeside Corroboree, a time to honour, respect, and celebrate Indigenous culture, identity, history and stories. Together we are bridging now to next, building toward a more united and respectful nation. Together, we respectfully acknowledge, learn, and unite
Farewell to Mr. Noel Pullen: It is with mixed emotions that we bid farewell Mr. Noel Pullen, who has served as the Business Manager of Lakeside College for the past seven years. Noel has been instrumental in overseeing the remarkable growth of the College, including a 70% increase in student enrolment. He also led numerous successful building projects, such as the Primary and Senior Primary Buildings, the Visual Arts and Technology Centre, outdoor recreational areas and the ongoing development of the new Food Technology building works set to commence later in the year. We thank Noel for his dedicated service and wish him all the best in his retirement.
Welcome to Mr. Brian Trumble - Our New Business Manager: We are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Brian Trumble as our new Business Manager. Brian comes to Lakeside College with a strong background in accounting and extensive experience in school management. His wealth of knowledge will undoubtedly serve the College well as we continue to grow and develop in the years ahead.
Looking Ahead: As we continue to move through the school year, we are excited for all the opportunities and experiences that await our students, staff and families. From academic achievements to community engagement and spiritual growth, Lakeside College remains dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are ready to face the future with confidence and purpose.
