Vision Statement
McKinnon Secondary College lives by its motto ‘Wisdom and Service’.
We foster a love of learning and respect for diversity. We strive to nurture empathetic, creative and confident young people who are connected to our community and Indigenous heritage. We want our students to embrace opportunities for continuous improvement and accept the challenges of a complex and globalised world.
NGV: French Impressionism Exhibition
Visible brush strokes, vivid use of colours and lack of detail are the key aspects of French Impressionism; things that the Year 11 and 12 French students had the wonderful opportunity to learn about when we attended the NGV on the 27th of August. This excursion meticulously delved into the world of French culture and art, proving to be an inspiring and enriching experience. The exhibition covered the era of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism in French art, allowing us to learn about the different artists that pushed the boundaries of what was considered ‘art’ in the late nineteenth-century. We got to walk through carefully constructed thematic galleries, discovering different artists and their inspiration and muses. Pieces by Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, Manet and Degas were beautifully arranged as we marvelled over the talent exhibited in the 19th and 20th century works. The gallery was designed after the extravagant houses of American collectors, where the pieces were once on display, as well as spaces enjoyed by the artists themselves. This created an experience like no other; one which we are all glad to have had the chance to witness. Everyone who participated walked away from the exhibition with a broadened appreciation for art and French culture, and we’re all extremely grateful to Monsieur Chamontin for arranging this excursion. Amelie and Emma, Year 12
Year 8 Boys Soccer SMR Finalists
On Thursday 14 August the Year 8 Boys Soccer team travelled down to Kingston Heath to see if they could progress to the State Finals by winning through as the SMR representative. The team went unbeaten at Kingston Division in Friday sport with many boys taking part in the team over Term 2 on a Friday afternoon. It is fair to say that Year 8 boys can be wildly exuberant at times, but I have also seen them grow as people over the term as I have at times, dispensed some tough love to a few to ensure that their behaviour is respectful and they fully understand what it is to be a member of a team. I have also seen them play some brilliant football and score some stunning goals as they took onboard my ideas and structures. At SMR, due to the late arrival of another school we changed pool groups and had to play our first game 40 minutes earlier than expected without a proper warm up. The boys responded by winning that opening game six nil. All team members were involved in the opening game as I able to switch many members of the team and give them all a taste of SMR soccer. McKinnon won the second game 3-1 and once again due to the team’s strength, I was able to rest and rotate all players again in preparation for our final pool game against Gleneagles. McKinnon only needed a draw to go through to the final and played well in the final pool game. However, despite creating many chances they were undone by the most brilliant free kick having witnessed in almost 30 years of school sport with a Gleneagles free kick sailing into the net from 30 metres at speed and height which was unstoppable. McKinnon almost equalised a few times afterwards, but it was not to be as the Year 8 boys lost 1-0 to Gleneagles and did not progress to the SMR final. The Year 8 McKinnon boys had lost just the solitary game all year and played some brilliant football, but it was not to be. Having said that, I was really impressed by the spirit, skill and growing maturity of the 19 boys who were part of the squad. There were some fabulous goals scored throughout the whole year with Jackson having the good fortune to have his cracker captured on video by the school photographer but there were many others who displayed the McKinnon Magic. Miklos was brilliant in goals, Theo and Daichi marshalled the midfield with superb support from Harry, Jackson, Jake and Jude. Our defence was ably led by captain Thomas whose calmness and great touch was great to see with great support from Aiden, Lio, Caleb, Tim and Zachary. Attacking wise Gabriel's movement off the ball, presence and great goals served the team well where he was ably supported by Daniel who scored some great goals as well. Alon and Zach also played their part in many positions. Special thanks to Thomas and Faris who came along and ran a line and supported the team so well. I was really proud to see the growth of these boys and I want the whole school community to know how proud I was of these boys. Well done. Jonathan JhoomunCoach
Berthe Mouchette Competition
The start of Term 3 brought about the Berthe Mouchette Competition earlier this week, which French students across all year levels undertook, and in particular the senior French students undertook for the last time in their schooling lives. The Competition consisted of two components: a written section and an oral section. On Tuesday 29 July, we undertook the oral section. From reciting a poem in the junior school, to a general conversation about family, hobbies, school life and all things French, as well as a discussion on the push towards Independence in New Caledonia, the exam-like structure was certainly a step up. Anxiously awaiting our designated time slot, image and name sheet in hand, it could only be a beneficial experience that holds doubtless skills in listening and speaking in French, as well as gaining a greater understanding of French culture and its uniqueness. Each assessor brought a warmth and enthusiasm to the competition, and it took no time to settle into its rhythm. We are all grateful for their time and assistance in helping us improve our language skills. The Berthe Mouchette Competition that McKinnon has participated in for the entirety of our French schooling has been an invaluable experience that has undoubtedly broadened our knowledge of French culture and sharpened our language skills - ready for the Year 12 exam in mid-October this year. Merci beaucoup to Monsieur Chamontin for his undivided support, encouragement and plenty of fun times all throughout our journey in Berthe Mouchette. Alex Rowe HansenYear 12 Student
Mary Poppins
For more than a year, countless students and staff members have been working tirelessly to create the most practically perfect performance of Mary Poppins The Musical. With a cast of over 60 students, ranging from Year 7s all the way to Year 12s, and four dedicated teachers who took on directorial roles, we had seven months to rehearse and prepare everything. Sets had to be painted, props had to be collected, costumes had to be resourced and fitted, and songs and dances had to be learned. Everyone had huge responsibilities, but what made this process so incredible was the community we had created together. Everyone was always helping each other out and looking out for one another. Even on days when everyone was tired and rehearsal was the last thing on our minds; we found a way to lift each other and continue working harder than ever. Quickly, we became a huge family, a family of kind and supportive people. This show brought out the best in us, not only with our talents of singing, acting and dancing but also with our ability to express love in every step of the journey. I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to finish my schooling year with this amazing family by my side. Even with the busyness of Year 12, stepping into the theatre space and seeing my cast mates felt like a moment of tranquillity, and simply smiling was inevitable. Thank you to everyone who was involved: The MAV team, the backstage crew, the costume crew, the principal team for their support and everyone else behind the scenes. Finally, the biggest thank you to four incredible teachers who have brought to life a masterpiece of a performance, without whom the theatre world at McKinnon would not thrive to this extent. Thank you, Ms Adler, Ms Angell, Mr Baldwin and Ms Barber. You are the true talent of this show. Hope you all enjoyed watching this supercalifragilisticexpialidocious performance of Mary Poppins! MilanaYear 12 Student
Music News
RECOGNITION OF SERVICE 2025 AWARDS CEREMONYOn Wednesday 30 July the McKinnon Secondary College Senior String Quartet traveled to the Dingley Hotel to provide music for the participants of the Recognition of Service 2025 Awards Ceremony as guests arrived. They enjoyed some light refreshments while treated to live string music. The students played a selection of pieces; Underground Tango, Sweet Child of Mine, The Masterplan, Cook Strait Crossing, Colour of the Wind, and Apocalyptica. The students performed their first gig with pride and professionalism, showcasing our school at its best. 2025 CLAREMONT TERRACEOn Wednesday morning of 30 July, the Units 3 and 4 VCE Music students, accompanied by Mrs Bugeja and Mrs Mead, walked to Claremont Terrace to perform for the residents. There was a large crowd who enjoyed singing along to a variety of pieces ranging from Broadway to the Classical Period. There was also a variety of instruments; vocals, saxophone, violin and the Senior String Quartet. The students showed great self-sufficiency as they set themselves up with the necessary equipment and performed with confidence and enjoyment. We hope to visit Claremont Terrace every year with both VCE Year 11 and 12 students to build relationships and give back to the community and to create more performing opportunities for the students. VSMF SENIOR STRINGSOn Monday night the Senior String Ensemble traveled by bus to the Hawthorn Arts Centre to participate in the Victorian Schools Music Festival. They performed Someday by Perry Holbrook with a beautiful violin solo played by Manoli Adamakis and The Golden Gateway by Brian Balmages. After their performance the chief adjudicator workshopped the ensemble for 30 minutes. She encouraged them to think about different concepts to enable them to further develop their ensemble skills. While Mrs Mead went off for a conducting lesson to help hone her skills, the ensemble sat and watched the following school perform. The Senior Strings received a Bronze award and we thank all the students for putting in hard work and staying up late! Georgina MeadInstrumental Music Teacher
Languages News
SPANISH EDUCATION CHANCELLOR VISIT On Thursday 24 July, we had the opportunity to get a visit from the Spanish Education Chancellor, Rosa Maria Prieto y Andres Gomez, Technical Assessor. They came to visit the school and to talk to students about the culture and the benefits of learning Spanish. Students got a great understanding of the Camino the Santiago, one of the most famous pilgrimages in the world. Students explored its origins, historical facts and its importance in today's tourism world. Ana GomezSpanish TeacherYEAR 8 FRENCH CLASS EXPOS At the end of the semester, some of our Year 8 French classes participated in classroom expos on topics associated with the cultures of the French-speaking world. There was some wonderful work, and everyone learned something new and interesting. There was information about a range of topics, from snails, through desserts, onto the Eiffel Tower, and including a presentation about Eurovision contributions from a range of French-speaking countries. Jennifer LyndLanguages Learning Area ManagerKUMMARGEE EDUCATION PERFECT CHALLENGE During the last two weeks of term, our Year 8 language students were busy building up Kummargee points in their own Education Perfect challenge. This was limited to the three languages taught at McKinnon - French, German and Spanish. The winning class is 8D. Second place goes to 8A, and third to 8E. The following students earned certificates and were placed as listed: Gold - Meredith (1st) & Evelyn (2nd)Silver - Davide (3rd)Bronze - Eloise (4th), Shahar (5th) & Charlie (6th) Jennifer LyndLanguages Learning Area Manager
French Model UN
On Friday 25 July, seven of our Year 12 students proudly represented our school at the French Model United Nations event, held at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership in Melbourne. This prestigious event, conducted entirely in French, brought together students from across Victoria to roleplay as delegates from various countries, tackling pressing global issues in a simulated UN setting. This year’s theme, Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development: Harnessing the Benefits – Safeguarding Human Rights, sparked dynamic debate and thoughtful discussion among participants. Our students took on the challenge with enthusiasm and flair, representing three countries: South Korea, the USA and Ireland. They spent the day negotiating, presenting speeches, and drafting resolutions - all while speaking French from start to finish! It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to put their language skills to the test in a real-world context and gain insight into international diplomacy. They had an absolute blast embracing their roles as global delegates and left the event inspired and proud of their achievements. Bravo to our talented linguists for their impressive efforts and commitment! Cedric ChamontinFrench Teacher
Frankston Jazz Bands Showcase
On Saturday 28 June, the Senior Stage Band participated in the Jazz Band Showcase at Frankston High School’s junior campus, an event dedicated to outstanding jazz ensembles from across the region. The concert opened with an energetic performance by the McKinnon Senior Stage Band, featuring a diverse setlist; Taking the stage first, the band set a high standard for the afternoon with dynamic playing and impressive solo features, including a vocal spotlight by Olivia (Year 12) and flugel horn feature by Arnav (Year 12). The program also included the three talented Frankston High School stage bands, each bringing their own style and musicality to the showcase. A particular highlight was the guest performance by the Westernport Big Band, a community group known for their vibrant sound and spirit. McKinnon musicians even had the unique opportunity to sit in and play alongside Westernport Big Band members, creating a memorable and hands-on experience. The Jazz Band Showcase was an amazing day of music making, marked by outstanding performances and a shared passion for jazz. Thank you to Mr Serebrianik for organising this opportunity and Mr Rex for the support on the day. The event was a fantastic chance to collaborate and a reminder of the energy and camaraderie that makes jazz so special. Dmitry SerebrianikActing Head of Performing Arts
German Model UN
On Wednesday 23 July senior students of German went to the German Model UN, held at the Bastow Institutes' North Melbourne centre. The German Model UN simulates a General Assembly meeting of the United Nations in New York and is conducted completely in the German language. This year's focus was efforts to end global poverty and hunger, and our students in two teams represented the views of South Korea and of the United States of America. There was quite a bit of spirited debate, with some national delegates gently having a go at another nation's point of view, and it was great to see students eagerly mixing with others from other schools, when the unmoderated caucus enabled them to find possible allies and negotiate with them for support for an amendment to the draft resolution. A great opportunity to use the German language with other students in a guided setting. One of our students, Benny (Year 11), says: "The German Model UN experience is like no other, a great way to improve your language skills and explore different countries in a new view. From debating different amendments to creating your own. We highly recommend getting involved." David NuttingGerman Teacher
McKinnon Debaters Sharpen Their Skills at Winter Debate Camp
On Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 of July, during the school holidays, members of the Year 9 McKinnon Secondary College Debating Team had the exciting opportunity to attend the annual Winter Debating Workshop, hosted by the Debaters Association of Victoria at City Cite on Flinders Street. Throughout the two days, we mingled with some of the state’s most accomplished debaters, including students from leading independent schools such as Scotch College, Carey Grammar, and the selective-entry Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School. It was an inspiring environment that enabled us to test our skills against strong competition while also learning from experienced adjudicators and speakers. Each day was structured around four key sessions:A topic seminarA secret topic debateLunch breakA debate skills seminarFollowed by a second secret topic debate. This intense schedule gave us the chance to sharpen our debating abilities, especially in the form of impromptu speaking as well as gaining valuable insights ahead of our upcoming State play-offs. As a proud member of the McKinnon Debating Team, I can confidently say the camp was an enriching and motivating experience. We not only improved our debating techniques but also built connections with the wider debating community. A huge thank you to Miss Zappner and Miss Ozcagli for making this opportunity possible and for their continued support of our team. Arnav, Year 9 Student
Senior Girls Soccer Team SMR Champions!
Our Senior Girls Soccer team put on a brilliant display of skill, teamwork and determination, winning all four of their games yesterday to claim the title of SMR Champions. They capped off the day with a tense 1-0 victory over MacRob in the final. The team was led superbly all day by our rock-solid defence and outstanding goalkeeping. Kaia (Year 12), Olin (Year 11), Dayna (Year 12), Talia (Year 12), Jessica (Year 12) and Emily (Year 12) were near-impenetrable, conceding just one goal across the entire competition. Their calmness under pressure and strong communication laid the foundation for success. In the midfield, Harley (Year 11), Shauna (Year 12) and Sienna (Year 8 student who did not look out of place in the Year 12 team!) dominated play with energy, composure and clever ball movement, consistently setting up attacking opportunities and winning crucial contests. Up front, our wingers and forwards Tani (Year 11), Clara (Year 11), Anasia (Year 12) and Jaime (Year 12) worked tirelessly, making smart runs, applying forward pressure and threatening the goals all day. Importantly, the team was boosted by a positive and supportive bench who brought energy and encouragement at every opportunity, playing a key role in keeping the team focused and connected throughout the competition. It was a full squad effort, and the team can be incredibly proud of their undefeated day. With this victory, McKinnon now looks ahead to the State Championships in September – and if this performance is anything to go by, the team is ready for the challenge! Michael WoolhouseCoach
Junior Ensembles Concert
Congratulations to everyone who contributed to the success of the Junior Ensembles Concert held on Wednesday, 2nd July. The evening was a true celebration of musical talents, featuring outstanding performances from all Year 7 Band and Strings groups, Extension Strings, Junior Choir, and the Intermediate Stage Band. With over 200 students taking part, the concert was a showcase of our school’s musical community. For our Year 7 students, this concert marked their very first performance—a testament to their dedication, hard work, and countless hours of rehearsals and practice since the start of the year. The enthusiasm and joy shared by both the performers and the audience created an unforgettable atmosphere. Thank you to our incredible Performing Arts staff for their unwavering commitment to preparing the students for this special night. We also extend our gratitude to the AV and facilities teams for ensuring everything ran smoothly behind the scenes. Well done to all involved. It was a wonderful way to end the term! Here is a reflection from Year 7 student Daniel: Nerves and excitement echoed throughout the hall as they sat down and prepared to play their instruments. The bright lights shone down on the performers. This was the night of Wednesday 2 July, a night that the Year 7 participants of junior ensembles would never forget, as it was their first ever ensembles concert. The Year 7 Combined Concert Band commenced the event with the pieces ‘Centurion’ by Mark Williams and ‘Shine’ by Rob Grice. They were conducted by Ms Tracy Videon and Mr Paschal Lee. Even though it was their first time, they performed with enthusiasm and focus, delighting the crowd with their energetic opening pieces. Next came another level of experience, with the Year 7 Extension Strings. This group was more advanced as they had previously learned their instruments outside of school. They played the piece ‘Mamba Samba’ by Keith Sharp and was conducted by Ms Clare Bugeja. They performed with precision and dedication, showing their proficiency. After the Extension Strings, the mood shifted to the spirited voices of the Junior Singers. The talented group was directed by Ms Laura Main and they sang ‘Why We Sing’ by Greg Gilpin and ‘Roar’ by Katy Perry, arranged by Roger Emerson. Their joyful vocals harmonized throughout the hall, providing the audience with a spectacular performance. The stage was then passed on to the Year 7 Combined String Orchestra, who were conducted by Mr Michael Lee. Although it was also their first time, they performed their pieces ‘Olga Square Dance’ by Pat Legg and ‘First Scale March’ by Mark Williams with great expression and technique. To end the night, the Intermediate Stage Band, consisting of Year 10 to Year 12 students, performed ‘Shiny Stockings’ by Frank Foster, arranged by Sammy Nestico, ‘Strollin’ by Nick Mulder and ‘1-800-Got-Funk’ by Vince Gassi. They were directed by Mr Stuart Byrne and performed with great expertise and artistry. In conclusion, the students performed exceptionally well and should be incredibly proud of themselves. Many thanks to Ms Megan Papworth, Head of Performing Arts and the two Instrumental Music Managers, Ms Clare Bugeja and Mr Dmitry Serebrianik, as well as all the other Performing Arts staff for their efforts preparing students for this concert. This performance marked not only the culmination of every student’s hard work, but also the beginning of many musical journeys ahead. Daniel X, Year 7
