Issue 4

Principal’s Report – 20 March 2026

Harmony Week

This week, our school proudly celebrates Harmony Week, an opportune time to recognise and honour the cultural diversity that makes our school community so vibrant and unique. Harmony Week provides an important opportunity to reflect on the values of respect, inclusion, and belonging. The diverse backgrounds within our school community are one of our greatest strengths. Our students, families, and staff members bring their own stories, traditions, and perspectives, creating a rich environment where young people can learn not only from their teachers, but from one another. This diversity provides our students with invaluable opportunities to develop empathy, understanding, and a broader worldview-skills that will serve them well as active and thoughtful citizens both within our school and in the wider community.

Throughout Harmony Week, and indeed at all times through an unwavering focus on our College values, we place a strong emphasis on what it truly means to be inclusive. It is more than simply acknowledging difference; it is about embracing it with curiosity, kindness, and respect. We encourage our students to be open to new perspectives, to celebrate what makes each individual unique, and to stand against exclusion in all its forms. These are lifelong values that shape not only the culture of our school, but the kind of society we hope our students will help build.

There have been numerous activities throughout the week. On Tuesday students were able to wear free dress with proceeds of a gold coin donation going to charity. Positive Futures classes also focused on multiculturalism and enabled students to engage in a range of fun activities to highlight the key messages of the week and celebrate our school community.  A further highlight of the day was certainly the Dragon Dance which took place during lunchtime. Other activities throughout the week included face painting and a spaghetti eating competition on Friday which was messy to say the least!

As we celebrate together, we thank our families for the role they play in fostering such a welcoming and supportive community. Our College proudly embraces and seeks to foster inclusion, respect and dignity for all. As a College, we value and respect the diversity of our community, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported and understood. Harmony Week may shine a light on this, but it is something we strive for every day.

On this note, I would also like to extend warm wishes to our Muslim families as the month of Ramadan concludes. As we come to the end of this special time, we extend our warmest wishes to our Muslim families as they celebrate Eid al-Fitr today. May this joyous occasion bring peace, happiness, and togetherness to you and your loved ones. Eid Mubarak to all who are celebrating.

2026 School Production

Rehearsals are officially underway for our school production, which will go to stage in August 2026. The excitement is already building! This year’s musical, still to be named, is extra special, as it is being written by professionals specifically for our dedicated and talented students.

From the very first auditions, it has been wonderful to see students bringing energy, creativity, and enthusiasm to the process. Whether they are performing on stage, working behind the scenes, or helping shape the production as it develops, every student plays an important role in bringing this unique show to life.

We can’t wait to share more updates as rehearsals continue and the production begins to take shape. Stay tuned!

Parent – Student – Teacher Conferences

With Cycle 1 reports now published to students and families, this is a further reminder that our Term 1 Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences are to be held on Tuesday 31 March 2026.
We encourage parents and students to avail themselves of this important opportunity to meet our teachers to discuss student progress. All bookings must be made via Compass.

Interview Times are:

Interviews 12.30pm – 2.30pm
Interviews 2.45pm to 4.45pm
Interviews 5.30pm – 7.30pm

The Parent – Student – Teacher Conference Booking System is now accessible from:

Year 12 Student Bookings – 12.00pm Wednesday 18 March until 12.00pm Monday 30 March.

Year 7 to 11 (including Year 11 students doing a Unit 3/4 subject) Student Bookings – 12.00pm Friday 20 March until 12.00pm Monday 30 March.

We acknowledge that the logistics of the afternoon and evening make it difficult for all parents to meet with each teacher, I would therefore advise parents to be selective and prioritise their bookings.

**Please note that bookings are essential – there will be no opportunity for unscheduled interviews. We also ask that only parents and enrolled students attend. Please be aware that bookings fill quickly, and you may not get the opportunity to see all teachers during these sessions. However, you are able to readily contact teachers via the Compass system if you have any concerns or questions.

Outstanding Student Achievement – an invitation

Can I take this opportunity to remind the families of our school community that we are always willing to hear of and share the deeds of our students in their sporting, academic, performing arts or community-based pursuits external to our College. We have, on a regular basis, students who are involved in a quite extraordinary array of activities and it is always a pleasure and with great pride that we seek to share those outcomes with our wider school community.

2026 Student ID Cards

2026 Student ID Cards are currently being distributed to students in class time. It is essential that you keep your student card safe and bring it to school every day.

In 2026, you will need your student card to:

• Top up your printing credit
• Sign in at the Compass Kiosk
• Sign out at the Compass Kiosk
• Borrowing books and resources from the library
• Release print jobs from the photocopiers
• Provide identification for public transport (PTV)
• Resetting your password with IT
• Exam identification
• 2027 School Photo process and identification
• Certain camps and excursions require you to carry your Student ID Card

Your student ID card is valid until April 2027. If a student misplaces their card, parents/carers will need to re-order one through the Compass Parent Portal under Tools – CompassIdentity Card.

2026 cards will be activated once they have all been distributed.

Brett Lamb
Assistant Principal

Anaphylaxis Policy

East Doncaster Secondary College has reviewed and updated our Anaphylaxis Policy to reflect changes implemented by The Department of Education.

Please find attached the recently updated Anaphylaxis Policy for 2026. Updated Anaphylaxis Policy – 3 March 2026

If you have any questions, please contact Assistant Principal, Cameron Campbell via email at east.doncaster.sc@education.vic.gov.au

Annual privacy reminder for our school community

CCTV at our College

East Doncaster Secondary College has recently upgraded the closed-circuit television (CCTV) system at our school.

Our school has an obligation to ensure the school environment is safe and secure, and fulfil our duty of care to students, staff and visitors. The CCTV system assists our school to fulfil these obligations and to prevent and manage other inappropriate behaviour on school grounds. CCTV will also provide enhanced capability to protect our school’s assets against vandalism and theft.

We will follow Department of Education policy requirements for the design, installation, management and use of the CCTV systems. This policy is available at: CCTV in Schools – Installation and Management.

We will also place a CCTV Privacy Notice on our school website with more information about our school’s use of CCTV.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Reception on 9842 2244 or via email: east.doncaster.sc@education.vic.gov.au

Cameron Campbell
Assistant Principal

School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS)

School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) is an evidence-based framework that has been implemented in many Victorian schools over the past 5 years. A number of our local primary schools have been using this approach so the terminology may be familiar to many. The SWPBS approach aims to foster positive, safe, and supportive learning environments.

In 2024, East Doncaster Secondary College started to explore this framework as a means to explicitly focus our attention on supporting positive behaviours. At our school we call them expected behaviours. We aim to create a predictable learning environment and ensure that our learning areas remain safe, calm and dignified. The SWPBS model brings together students, teachers, and families to promote a culture where positive behaviour is explicitly taught, acknowledged, and celebrated.

What have we done so far?
Last year, teachers and student focus groups collaborated to develop the EDSC School Wide Positive Behaviour Support matrix. This matrix identified a number of areas within the College where an explicit focus on how students and staff interact with each other and their community. We developed a number of statements that describe behaviours we want to see and we aligned these to our existing College values. The end result is a set of expected behaviours that guide how we do things at EDSC “at all times”, “in the classroom”, “in the yard”, “out in the community” and “while online”. A copy of the matrix is attached to this newsletter and can also be seen on the Compass newsfeed.

What does this look like?
SWPBS is a whole-school approach designed to improve social, emotional, behavioural, and academic outcomes for all students. By establishing clear behavioural expectations and consistently reinforcing them, our aim is to create an environment where positive behaviours are the norm. In class and during Positive Futures sessions, teachers are explicitly teaching the behaviours expected of our students in various settings, ensuring clarity and consistency.

When staff see students meeting these expectations, they post a chronicle which triggers an email to students and their families outlining what the staff member has observed. The College leadership team continues to reinforce the power of promoting expected behaviours and we are seeing a decrease in negative student interactions. The SWPBS approach combined with explicit classroom entry and exit routines and a consistent approach to managing student misbehaviour, is having a positive effect on our students. By establishing clear behavioural expectations and consistently reinforcing them, we are creating an environment where positive behaviours are the norm.

How can parents and carers get involved?

Engagement from families is crucial for the success of SWPBS. Parents and students can:

Stay informed: Understand the school’s behavioural expectations and positive reinforcement systems.

Reinforce at home: Encourage and acknowledge positive behaviours at home that align with school expectations.

Communicate: Maintain open lines of communication with teachers and school staff regarding behavioural expectations and student progress.

We will regularly update families on our progress with SWPBS via the Compass newsfeed so please keep an eye out. By embracing SWPBS, we aim to create an environment where positive behaviour is the foundation for academic success and personal growth.

East Doncaster Secondary College Policy Handbook 2025/2026

Our School Policy Handbook has been updated and approved by School Council.

For further document information and the College’s policies, please follow the below link:
School Documents and Policies

Please find below the link to the East Doncaster Secondary College Policy Handbook which is also available on our website.
2025/2026 Policy Handbook

Cameron Campbell
Assistant Principal

Please click on the links below for more information about EDSC

Camps, Sports and Excursions (CSEF) Fund

For further information on applying for 2026 Victorian Government CSEF Fund assistance please see the below links

Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund CSEF information

CSEF Resources and Information in different languages

College Philosophy

Compass Parent Guide

Compass allows you to access up to date and meaningful information about our College and your child’s progress.  

Compass Education Website Guide

Compass Parent Guide

Compass Parent Passwords

Cyber Safety and Responsible use of digital technologies

Kids Helpline

E-Safety – Young People

E-Safety – Counselling / Support Services

Child Safety and Wellbeing at EDSC

Damage to Students’ Personal Items/Property

Parent contact details

Have you moved house, changed phone numbers, email address?

If so, please remember to fill in the attached ‘Change of Details’ form. Please return this form as soon as possible. 

Change of details form

School Saving Bonus

Paying for school activities in Compass using outstanding SSB Funds from previous years.

Second-hand Textbooks and Uniforms

Sell and Buy Textbooks and Uniforms with Sustainable School Shop

EDSC – Second Hand Uniform Shop

EDSC – Second Hand Textbooks Shop

Sustainable School Shop

Student Absences

If a student is unable to attend school, is going to be late or needs to leave early, the school must be informed of ALL absences.

Compass Login

Student Absence Notification Form

Chinese – Student Absence Notification form

Fact Sheet for Parents and Carers

Student Lunches

Student Medical Expenses

Uniform Group – Product and Size Availability

Privacy reminder for our school community

Schools’ Privacy Policy

Schools’ Privacy Collection Notice – VIC Government

Schools Documents – Policies – Reports — Information for parents

Compass

Microsoft 365

Google Workspace for Education 

Office 365, Edapt, Oliver Library Management System and Halaxy

Year 8 Enchanted Adventure Garden Excursion

We would love all Year 8 students to embrace the opportunity to go to the beautiful Enchanted Adventure Gardens! As part of our Term 1 Year 8 program, we are offering students the opportunity to attend an excursion to Enchanted Adventure Garden in Arthurs Seat, Victoria. Aimed at promoting curiosity, physical activity, and environmental appreciation, this excursion will provide a fun and educational experience, allowing students to engage with nature, team-building activities, and outdoor adventures in a beautiful environment.

Details regarding this excursion have been posted on the Compass newsfeed and emailed to parents and students.

Please provide consent and payment via Compass by Monday 23 March 2025.

The year level will be separated into two groups, and each group will attend the excursion on their designated day.

Group 1 – 8K-8T. Date of Excursion: Monday 30 March

Group 2 – 8A-8J. Date of Excursion: Wednesday 1 April

To support families’ financial planning of these events, please note that the Victorian School Saving Bonus (SSB) and Camps, Schools, Excursion Fund (CSEF) can be allocated to this excursion. Using the bonus is a fantastic way for students have the opportunity to experience educational trips. The bonus can also be applied to other events or school-related experiences throughout the year should you wish to use it at an alternative time.

Year 9 City Experience

Year 9 City Experience is coming up in the first half of Term 2. This unforgettable extended excursion offers students the opportunity to explore key cultural, historical, and modern landmarks, while engaging in hands-on learning experiences. Students will meet in the city each day for a whole school week to engage in a program designed to foster independence, teamwork and develop students’ knowledge of the Melbourne CBD.

Dates for City Experience are as follows:

Term 2: Week 2, 9A-9H:

Monday 27 April – Friday 1 May

Term 2: Week 5, 9I-9P:

Monday 18 May – Friday 22 May

City Experience helps students learn about Melbourne’s rich history, cultural diversity, and urban life in a practical, engaging setting. It also fosters teamwork and problem-solving skills while allowing them to discover the city’s unique identity. Year 9 families are encouraged to review the recent Compass post for further information about this extended excursion and keep an eye out for the City Experience Payment/Consent Compass event which will appear in your Compass feed later this week. Please note that the Victorian School Saving Bonus (SSB) and Camps, Schools, Excursion Fund (CSEF) can be allocated to this excursion.

Giulia Catalano
Middle School Assistant Principal

College Uniform

For Term 1 and Term 4, please refer to the Summer Uniform requirements.
The expectation is for students to wear the dress and shorts only in Term 1 and 4. Please note the Winter skirts are for Winter Term 2 and 3.
Shorts and Pants must be tailored and Navy.

Student Attendance / Absence Reminder

The school must be informed of ALL absences, whether it be illness, appointments, holidays or any other reason. You can do this via the following options.

• The easiest way, is to login to Compass with your Parent Login and add submit an ‘Attendance Note’ for the time of absence
• Calling the Absence Line BEFORE 8:30am on the day of the absence. Phone: 9842 2244 (dial option 1)
• Sending a note with the student for early departures. Teachers will not allow students out of class without a note or an approval on Compass
• Fill in a ‘Student Absence Notification’ form for any extended length of absence including holidays, overseas travel etc. (The College must have any extended leave submitted in writing)

If you have any attendance concerns or questions regarding an SMS message you have received, please call the College absence line and leave a message with your child’s details and we will follow up your enquiry. Please do not reply to the SMS as this service is not available.

Please remind your child/ren that they must sign out at the Middle School (Years 7,8,9) Compass Kiosk machines if they arrive late to school or have to leave early.

Unwell

Please remind your child/ren not to contact you directly during the day to let you know they are unwell.  Instead, if they are feeling unwell, they need to ask the teacher to visit our Sickbay and our First Aid Officer will contact you accordingly.  If you need to pick them up this will be organised via Sickbay.

Extended Absences

Please remember to fill in and return a ‘Student Absence Notification Form’ (Please see below) for any extended absences over 3 days.  Please ask your child to drop a copy into Reception or you can email this form to our school email address east.doncaster.sc@education.vic.gov.au

VCE students

Please remember to provide Medical Certificates for VCE students for any medical absences.  This is to help maintain their VCE Attendance requirements for all students who are in Year 11 and Year 12 and students that are in Year 10 and completing a Year 11 or 12 subject.  Please forward certificates to our school email address east.doncaster.sc@education.vic.gov.au

Student Absence Notification Form

Mandi Pigdon
Attendance Officer

Student Lunches

Just a reminder to parents that we are unable to deliver lunches to students during school time.  It is the student’s responsibility to come and collect their lunch if it has been dropped off at Reception. Hot food is not suitable to be left at Reception.

PLEASE NOTE: Take-away food is not allowed at the College during school hours.  Under no circumstances are students to be ordering take-away food to be delivered to the College.

Student Compass ID / Library / PTV Cards

Please remind all students that they must carry their Student Compass ID/Library/PTV Cards with them at all times.

ALL students must sign in with their card at the Middle School Office when they are arriving late and sign out at the Middle School Office when they are leaving early for any reason.

The cards are also used for any student photocopying that is done at school. The EDSC Student Compass ID/Library card can be used as ID for student PTV (Public Transport Victoria) travel. They are required to carry this card as student identification while travelling on public transport.

If a student loses their card, parents/guardians are able to re-order a replacement card via the Compass parent portal.

College Uniform

For Term 1 and Term 4 only, please refer to the Summer Uniform requirements.
The expectation is for students to wear the dress and shorts only in Term 1 and 4. Please note the Winter skirts are for Winter Term 2 and 3.
Shorts and Pants must be tailored and Navy.

Student Attendance / Absence Reminder

The school must be informed of ALL absences, whether it be illness, appointments, holidays or any other reason. You can do this via the following options.

• The easiest way, is to login to Compass with your Parent Login and add submit an ‘Attendance Note’ for the time of absence
• Calling the Absence Line BEFORE 8:30am on the day of the absence. Phone: 9842 2244 (dial option 1)
• Sending a note with the student for early departures. Teachers will not allow students out of class without a note or an approval on Compass
• Fill in a ‘Student Absence Notification’ form for any extended length of absence including holidays, overseas travel etc. (The College must have any extended leave submitted in writing)

If you have any attendance concerns or questions regarding an SMS message you have received, please call the College absence line and leave a message with your child’s details and we will follow up your enquiry. Please do not reply to the SMS as this service is not available.

Please remind your child/ren that they must sign out at the Senior School (Years 10,11,12) Compass Kiosk machines if they arrive late to school or have to leave early.

Unwell
Please remind your child/ren not to contact you directly during the day to let you know they are unwell. Instead, if they are feeling unwell, they need to ask the teacher to visit our Sickbay and our First Aid Officer will contact you accordingly. If you need to pick them up this will be organised via Sickbay.

Extended Absences
Please remember to fill in and return a ‘Student Absence Notification Form’ (Please see below) for any extended absences over 3 days. Please ask your child to drop a copy into Reception or you can email this form to our school email address east.doncaster.sc@education.vic.gov.au

VCE students
Please remember to provide Medical Certificates for VCE students for any medical absences. This is to help maintain their VCE Attendance requirements for all students who are in Year 11 and Year 12 and students that are in Year 10 and completing a Year 11 or 12 subject. Please forward certificates to our school email address east.doncaster.sc@education.vic.gov.au
Student Absence Notification Form.

Mandi Pigdon
Attendance Officer

Student Lunches

Just a reminder to parents that we are unable to deliver lunches to students during school time. It is the student’s responsibility to come and collect their lunch if it has been dropped off at Reception. Hot food is not suitable to be left at Reception.
PLEASE NOTE: Take-away food is not allowed at the College during school hours. Under no circumstances are students to be ordering take-away food to be delivered to the College.

Student Compass ID/Library/PTV Cards

Please remind all students that they must carry their Student Compass ID/Library/PTV Cards with them at all times.

ALL students must sign in and out with their card at The John Landy Centre (Senior School Building) when they are arriving late or leaving early for any reason.

The cards are also used for any student photocopying that is done at school. The EDSC Student Compass ID/Library card can be used as ID for student PTV (Public Transport Victoria) travel. They are required to carry this card as student identification while travelling on public transport.

If a student loses their card, parents/guardians are able to re-order a replacement card via the Compass parent portal.

English Language Centre Relationship Building

During Positive Futures on 3 March, we organised an icebreaking event for the ELC students with local students. Each ELC student was grouped up with one to two local students. We ran two rounds of icebreakers with prompts to aid them, a “stand if you…” activity, and lastly, a trivia to encourage teamwork between the students.

The primary goal of this event was to give the ELC students the opportunity to meet some local students around the college in advance before they go on to join normal classes in Term 3; we hope that it will make their experience of adjusting smoother and they gain the most out of their International schooling experience.

Overall, the event went smoothly, and we all had a lot of fun! It was a really good experience organising and running the event.

Written by Amanda and Kiana (supported by Austin)

English Language Centre Positive Futures Session

On 17 March, during the Positive Futures session, students engaged in mindful colouring with a twist. Alongside taking a brain break and engaging in artistic skills, we learnt names of sophisticated colours (thanks to our wonderfully labelled felt-tip pens) such us ‘Aqua Green’ ‘Rock Ash’ and ‘Hydrangea’!

Brenda James
EAL / ELC Coordinator

Year 10 Welcome Activities

Over the last two weeks our wonderful International Wellbeing inclusion leaders organised some activities for newly arrived Year 10 International Students to get to know some local Year 10 students. ‘Get to know you’ games with snacks as prizes were awarded during Positive Futures and then we followed this up by a Year 10 Welcome Lunch in the library. Everyone enjoyed the company and the food. Thanks to all students and staff for supporting these events!

Simon Veerhuis
International Student Coordinator

Music, Dance and Inspiration at MJ The Musical

Recently Year 9 and 10 performing arts students and captains attended MJ (Michael Jackson) the musical at Her Majesty’s Theatre.

The show was thrilling in every aspect. The music, choreography, special effects and set design reflecting various decades of music and aspects of Michael Jackson’s life and personality. Everyone left feeling alive, singing songs and excited by the visually spectacular show.

Afterwards, some students were fortunate enough to meet cast members, one very talented performer was only 9 years old! Students were inspired and energised by the experience. Thank you everyone for a great day out.

Megan Thompson
Performing arts Coordinator

What to do if a student is injured or sick at school

East Doncaster Secondary College has a dedicated Sick Bay which is located in the main Administration Building. It is there to service the needs of both students and staff. If a student requires medical attention during class time, that student will be sent by their teacher to the Sick Bay accompanied by another student (who will be sent back to class immediately). We will then assess the student and determine a course of action. If necessary, we will contact a parent or an emergency contact to provide them with the relevant details.

Students are NOT to contact their parent(s) by phone or text message before coming to the Sick Bay.

This causes undue stress for parents or carers, who understandably want to know the specifics about their child’s condition. We can assure parents that if their child is sick or injured and requires further intervention, they will be contacted. If a student is not feeling well or is injured, they are to come directly to Sick Bay.

Students are NOT to undertake it upon themselves to ask their parents to collect them from school.

Students are NOT permitted to walk, cycle, catch public transport or arrange for a ride home from school if they are injured or sick at school.

Adeline Seta
First Aid Officer

Year 7 Food Technology: Building Skills for Healthy and Sustainable Futures

This term, our Year 7 Food Technology students have been busy exploring the foundations of healthy eating and sustainability through the application of practical skills.

Practical cooking sessions have been a highlight of the term. Students have developed essential kitchen skills such as safe knife handling, measuring ingredients, following recipes, and maintaining kitchen hygiene and safety. They have prepared a variety of simple, healthy dishes that align with the AGHE guidelines with a focus on each of the food groups, allowing them to put their learning into practice.

It has been wonderful to see students grow in confidence and independence in the kitchen. These experiences not only support their understanding of food and nutrition but also equip them with valuable life skills that they can use at home and in the future.

Included is the year 7 sausage rolls recipe for you to try at home.

Sausage Rolls

Makes: Individual 8 Sausage Rolls

Ingredients ●     1/2 C breadcrumbs ●     200g sausage mince ●     1/2 onion, finely diced ●     1/4 carrot, grated ●     1/4 zucchini, grated ●     1 sheet puff pastry ●     Milk for glazing Optional decoration ●     Poppy seeds ●     Sesame seeds

Method 1.         Preheat oven to 220°C Fan Bake 2.         Combine the breadcrumbs, sausage mince, onion, carrot and zucchini and mix thoroughly 3.         Cut the pastry sheet in half to create two equal rectangles of pastry 4.         Roll the sausage mixture into two equal rolls, the same length as the pastry 5.         Place the sausage on the pastry lengths and moisten the edges with a little water to make them sticky 6.         Roll the pastry over the meat and ensure the fold is on the bottom of each roll 7.         Cut each long sausage roll into 4 short sausage rolls, equal in size so that they cook evenly 8.         Brush each sausage rolls lightly with milk to assist with browning in the oven 9.         Optional: top with poppy or sesame seeds 10.      Bake for 15 minutes, or until crispy, puffed and deep golden brown 11.      Serve hot with your favourite sauce

Melanie Morrish
Food Technology Domain Leader

The 2026 Reading Challenge is now open

The Reading Challenge is back at EDSC for 2026! The library team is excited to announce that the Challenge is now open for all students and staff.

The Reading Challenge at EDSC is the Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge (VPRC) plus extra added prizes and rewards. We are counting all the books that students and staff read from Thursday 1 January until 4pm Tuesday 1 September 2026.

To get started, students just need to log in to the VPRC website with their Edupass details (@schools email and password). They can then search for and add any books that they have read in 2026.

Any student who reads 15 books will be invited to our pizza party in October and will receive a certificate from the Victorian Premier. Prizes, including books and book vouchers, will be up for grabs in the random monthly prize draws, Mid-Challenge Awards and End of Challenge Awards.

Students can include any books they like (excluding children’s picture story books, dictionaries and textbooks). Students can include graphic novels, manga, English/EAL class novels, poetry, non-fiction, eBooks, audiobooks, and more!

There are more details on the EDSC Library website. Students should be sure to check their email and the Reading Challenge noticeboard in the library regularly for dates and other important information.

Emily Andersen
Acting Library Coordinator

23 March 2026 – PFA AGM

The PFA will hold AGM on Monday 23 March 2026 with some new parents joining us on 7.00pm in the JLC.

Those who have already expressed interest will be sent an email invite.  If any more members of the school community would like to join, please email the PFA committee at edscpfa@gmail.com and we will very happily add you on to the distribution list.

Kindly note that all the positions for the committee will be open for election at this time.

A friendly reminder to the new members who will join this year, if you do not possess a WWCC (for volunteers) please apply for it and once obtained, forward it to the email address edscpfa@gmail.com.

20 March Muslim Eid

The PFA extend their warmest congratulations to all Muslim students and families in our school community as they celebrate Eid. This special occasion marks a time of joy, reflection, gratitude, and togetherness, following a period of dedication and spiritual growth. May this Eid bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to all who are celebrating. We are proud to celebrate the diversity of our community and wish everyone a safe and joyful Eid.

What is the EDSC Positive Futures program?

Positive Education brings together the science of positive psychology with best-practice teaching.

The school’s journey with Positive Education began in 2012 with Positive Education focuses and values implemented across each year level and over time has evolved into the whole school approach launched in 2020.

Our Positive Futures program has some very clear goals:
• We want to improve student quality of life and their engagement with others, including with their teachers
• We seek to develop students in a more holistic way, with a stronger focus on wellbeing.

There are six tenets of Positive Psychology that are embedded into our model:

Positive Health – Positive Self

Developing knowledge, understanding and skills to promote health and well – being.

Positive Relationships

Nurturing positive relationships based on respect.

Accomplishment

Generating hope and optimism through the accomplishment of personal and community goals.

Positive Emotion

Building and experiencing positive emotion.

Meaning

Believing in serving something greater than ourselves.

Positive Engagement

Developing critical thinkers by promoting challenge, curiosity and creativity.

More resources and information can be found here: Positive Futures More Info

Georgina Hammond
Positive Futures Coordinator

Chisholm win thrilling 2026 House Cross Country!

Chisholm have won a thrilling 2026 House Cross Country in a close contest all day. In perfect weather conditions at Ruffey Lake Park, scores flipped between all houses – all leading at various times throughout the competition. However, it was Chisholm who held on late to claim their first title since 2023!

Overall Team Scores:
919 – Chisholm
904 – Sutherland
750 – Bradman
749 – Dunlop

Congratulations to all participants, especially the following age group and year level winners:
Boys 12-13 Winner and Year 7 Winner – Theodore – 7A (SUTH)
Girls 12-13 and Year 7 Winner – Alyssa – 7J (DUNL)

Boys 14 and Year 9 Winner – Foster – 9L (DUNL)
Boys Year 8 Winner – Cody – 8J (DUNL)
Girls 14 and Year 8 Winner – Alyxa – 8S (DUNL)

Boys 15 Winner – Ryan – 9H (SUTH)
Girls 15 and Year 9 Winner – Tanya – 9L (DUNL)

Boys 16 Winner – Jonathan – 10E (SUTH)
Girls 16 Winner – Anna – 10N (CHIS)

Boys 17-20 Winner – Didi – 12E (CHIS)
Girls 17-20 Winner – Agnes – 11L (CHIS)

These students and the top ten in each age group will represent the college in the Whitehorse Division Cross Country early in Term 2 – well done!

Michael James
House Activities and Carnivals Coordinator

Australian Grand Prix Excursion

All students had a great experience participating in the educational activities and listening to the tech talks available at the Australian Grand Prix. A big thank you to the supervising teachers who were able to attend. One of our STEM captains, Kyle, has shared his experience below. Anson – 11M, an avid student photographer, has included some photos from the day.

Evelyn Xu
Learning Specialist – STEM

Student Reflection

It’s lights out and away we go! After a year of waiting, Formula One is finally back in Melbourne. Being the only F1 race in Australia, the Melbourne Grand Prix has attracted F1 fanatics both domestically and internationally. With the 2026 regulation changes, the 2026 Formula One Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix is arguably one of the most anticipated upon motorsport events in history. The season opener in Melbourne has fans on the edge of their seats, eager to see whether their favourite team and driver would have a fighting chance at the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships.

Selected Year 10, 11 and 12 Science students were given the opportunity to attend the Formula One Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix, where they were able to witness science in motion. The Innovation Hub, located in the Albert Park circuit, showcased how Formula One relies heavily on science and engineering – understanding on the impact of different variants of parts such as front wings, side skirts, and spoilers on the car’s performance, and the enormous strategical effect on every pit stop were gained by students, allowing them to have greater insight into the motorsport industry. Furthermore, students were able to meet their favourite drivers such as Oscar Piastri, at Melbourne Walk, where the Melbourne-born driver and many others like Charles Leclerc greeted fans. Lastly, students were given the opportunity to witness racing in action, they were able to experience the thrill and noise of the Formula 2 cars as they powered down the main straight during system checks before Free Practice 1. Overall, the event allowed students to gain valuable insight and knowledge regarding the travelling of Formula One.

Kyle – 11M

2026 Canteen

Online ordering is through the QKR app. Please find attached the QKR how to brochure. With the QKR app, you can place orders right up until 8.45am. We also welcome lunch orders directly at the canteen before school and at recess. Remember the most efficient way to beat the queue at lunch is to place a lunch order.

We do accept both cash and card as form of payments at the canteen. Please remember phones are not permitted as a method of payment, so please bring your card.

Study Without Stress

Study Without Stress is a 6-week program that teaches techniques to help students get the most out of their final years at school while keeping stress at a manageable level.

The program covers the following topics: understanding stress (including causes, symptoms and the role of the stress response)

• goal setting
• managing expectations and beliefs about exams
• creating effective timetables
• learning how thoughts can impact performance
• challenging negative or unhelpful thinking patterns
• understanding perfectionism and procrastination
• building good study habits

Study without Stress will run on Monday starting the second week of Term 2. This is an after-school program running from 3:20 pm to 4:20 pm. Snacks will be provided. To register for this program Please complete the attached google form (limited places are available). Study without stress – google form

Maddie Sill
Wellbeing Team Leader

Cybersafety and Responsible Use of Digital Technologies

The following resources are available to parents and carers to assist them with guiding their children with the use of digital technology in a safe and responsible way. Parents and carers are their child’s first role model when it comes to online behaviour. Please find information to assist parents and carers when dealing with Cybersafety issues on the following websites:

https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents
https://www.education.vic.gov.au/parents/services-for-parents/Pages/parentline.aspx
https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/counselling-support-services

The following fact sheet may assist in encouraging the safe and respectful use of social media and to provide tips to parents for being a positive role model:

https://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/about/programs/bullystoppers/parentsocialmediaschoolcommunity.pdf

If parents/carers have any questions regarding Cybersafety or Digital Learnings in Schools and our Mobile Phone Policy, please contact Reception.

Cameron Campbell
Assistant Principal

Food & Financial Support

As we are all aware, the cost of living is increasing. We realise that this might be causing some distress to members of the EDSC community. If you are experiencing financial difficulties or food insecurity, please look at the website www.askizzy.org.au. This website can help you locate services for food, money, clothing, health and housing in your area.

The College is able to provide a range of food to families within the community. Foodbank Victoria provide EDSC fresh fruit, cereals, milk, different types of ready meals, fruit cups and Messy Monkey snacks. If you and your family are experiencing food insecurity, please contact the school to arrange a food collection. For a confidential conversation, please call Maddie Sill on 9842-2244.

Please also note that if your child forgets their lunch they can come to the Wellbeing Hub to access the pantry.

Child Safety Standards

East Doncaster Secondary College is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. This will be the primary focus of our care and decision making.

East Doncaster Secondary College has zero tolerance for child abuse.

East Doncaster Secondary College is committed to providing a child safe environment where children and young people are safe and feel safe, and their voices are heard about decisions that affect their lives. Particular attention will be paid to the cultural safety of Aboriginal children and children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, as well as the safety of children with a disability.

Every person involved in East Doncaster Secondary College has a responsibility to understand the important and specific role he/she plays individually and collectively to ensure that the wellbeing and safety of all children and young people is at the forefront of all they do and every decision they make.

In our planning, decision making and operations, all personnel at East Doncaster Secondary College will:

• Take a preventative, proactive and participatory approach to child safety;
• Value and empower children to participate in decisions which affect their lives;
• Foster a culture of openness that supports all persons to safely disclose risks of harm to children
• Respect diversity in cultures and child rearing practices while keeping child safety paramount;
• Provide written guidance on appropriate conduct and behaviour towards children;
• Engage only the most suitable people to work with children and have high quality staff and volunteer supervision and professional development;
• Ensure children know who to talk with if they are worried or are feeling unsafe, and that they are comfortable and encouraged to raise such issues;
• Report suspected abuse, neglect or mistreatment promptly to the appropriate authorities;
• Share information appropriately and lawfully with other organisations where the safety and wellbeing of children is at risk; and Value the input of and communicate regularly with families and carers.

For more information about Wellbeing at the College, please visit the following link: Student Wellbeing Information

What is Respectful Relationships?

Respectful Relationships education is a core component of the Victorian Curriculum from foundation to year 12. It is all about embedding a culture of respect and equality across the entire school community.

The Respectful Relationships program supports schools and early childhood settings to promote and model respect, positive attitudes and behaviours. It teaches our children how to build healthy relationships, resilience and confidence.

While many different strategies are needed to contribute to this population-wide approach, the Respectful Relationships initiative is a key example of successful primary prevention work to prevent gender-based violence in education settings.

Schools are unique as a setting in which primary prevention, early intervention, response and recovery operate alongside and in connection with one another. To be effective, Respectful Relationships must take a whole-of-school approach that works with leadership, systems and practices to support positive school cultures, age-appropriate curriculum delivery, policy development and community engagement.

Diversity and RRRR Calendar dates – Term 1

March
20/3 Close the Gap Day
21/3 Nowruz New Year
21/3 International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
29/3 Palm Sunday
31/3 Trans Day of Visibility

April

1-9/4 Passover
2/4 Maudy Thursday
3/4 Good Friday

Rebecca James

(Pronouns: she/her)

Respectful Relationships Coordinator

Everyone in our community deserves to be respected, valued and treated equally. We know that changes in attitudes and behaviours can be achieved when positive attitudes, behaviours and equality are embedded in our education settings.

Respectful Relationships is about embedding a culture of respect and equality across our entire community, from our classrooms to staffrooms, sporting fields, fetes and social events. This approach leads to positive impacts on students’ academic outcomes, their mental health, classroom behaviour, and relationships between teachers and students.

Together, we can lead the way in saying yes to respect and equality and creating genuine and lasting change so that every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

The EDSC Respectful Relationships Pledge:

“All members of our school community have a responsibility to stand up against family violence and the misuse of gender power and control. We foster relationships that are respectful, caring and fair.”
If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic violence the following services are available.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000 and ask for the police.

For non-urgent help, please contact:

• 1800RESPECT: The national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service. Phone and online services available 24/7.
• Doncare: (03) 9856 1500
• Free From Family Violence Service (FVREE): (03) 9249 4200 OR 0466 748 880
• Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre: 1800 015 188
• Migrant Information Centre support for people from diverse cultural backgrounds: (03) 9285 4888
• inTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence at 1800 755 988
• Men’s Referral Service: 1300 766 491
• Eastern Community Legal Centre: 1300 325 200
• The Orange Door: 1800 354 322
• Rainbow Door: 1800 729 367 Free specialist LGBTQIA+ helpline

More resources/agencies can be found on our Wellbeing, Student Resources page of the East Doncaster Secondary College website
https://www.eastdonsc.vic.edu.au/wellbeing/student-resources

The Department of Education Victoria and East Doncaster Secondary College does not endorse the products or services of any private advertiser. No responsibility is accepted by the Victorian Department of Education and East Doncaster Secondary College for accuracy or information contained in advertisements or claims made by them.

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Our fortnightly e-newsletter has space available and can include direct links to your website (no social media sites).
Pricing:
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Email the attached form to:
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