I am sure that our students and teachers are looking forward to shutting the computers and getting off zoom for at least some time over the next two weeks. It is important that we all take some time over this term break to get off electronic devices and spend some time with family and friends. We all need to ensure that our work and social life has good balance so we are the best that we can be.

It appears that the health crisis we have been facing this year is beginning to improve and I am hopeful that all students will be back to face-to-face learning before the end of Term 4. We have all learnt a lot about ourselves and others over the last two terms and, over the coming months, we will take time to reflect on our own learnings and the research and learnings of others. It will be important for us to use these findings to make any changes that will assist us in supporting students, staff and families.

There is no doubt that this year has been very difficult for all of us. However, for our Year 12 students, it has been particularly disappointing and sad. They have missed out on so many milestones and celebrations that are very much a part of Year 12. I know as a community we all really feel for them and are extremely proud of how they have shown so much maturity and resilience throughout the year. We are very excited that they will be returning to face-to-face learning on Monday 12 October and we are looking forward to spending that day reconnecting with them. We have also been working hard to plan celebratory activities that can take place before the commencement of VCE exams.

Once again, the students have found new and creative ways to stay connected and to demonstrate the MSJ way! R U Okay Day was planned and organised by a group of Year 11 students, over 130 students participated in the MSJ Remote Sleep Out, a number of students and staff are participating in our Race around Australia, on line competitions are being completed by students and they continue to demonstrate their many creative and sporting skills in a myriad of different ways!

I am so very grateful to be the principal of such a wonderful college. It is a community that truly values and supports each other. Our students have been so courageous, positive and resilient over the last few months and our staff continue to have the students at the centre of all that they do.

Please note that at this stage, the current arrangements will be in place for the commencement of the term.

Week 1 – Week beginning 5 October:

Remote learning for all students. VCE students attend school for the GAT on Wednesday 7 October.

Week 2 – Week beginning 12 October:

Years 11 & 12 students return to face-to-face learning.

Years 7–10 students to continue remote learning until further notice.

I hope everyone has some time over the coming two weeks to rest and relax until we commence Term 4.

Kate Dishon - Principal