Issue 6

Principal’s Report – 1 May 2026

I warmly welcome back all students, staff and families to the start of the new term. I do hope that everyone enjoyed a restful break, with time to recharge and spend quality time with family and friends. As we begin this new term, we’re excited for the extensive opportunities that are ahead for our students both inside and outside the classroom. Our college values continue to underpin our daily interactions. This term our focus continues to be on fostering meaningful connections that support a sense of belonging for all in our school community. In doing so, we support one another to achieve both academically and in terms of personal growth.

With the first two weeks of term already completed, there have already been numerous opportunities for our students to shine and embrace new experiences.

ANZAC Day commemorations

On Friday 24 April, we conducted a number of assemblies to commemorate ANZAC Day. These assemblies provided an important opportunity for our community to come together to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who have served our nation. As is our tradition, these assemblies were entirely student led and I was enormously impressed last week by the efforts of our student leaders and by our students who responded respectfully throughout.

I took the opportunity during our commemoration assembly to ask our students to reflect upon and appreciate the freedoms and opportunities they have. We owe a debt of gratitude to those who have sacrificed their lives so that we may prosper and in turn benefit form a wealth of opportunities.  I shared with our students how taking a moment to be grateful can shift how we approach everyday life. When we show respect for others, value education and appreciate the opportunities that are afforded to us, we are led to make choices that positively contribute to our community.

It was also wonderful to continue our connection with Roseville Retirement Village with Tim Bourke and a number of our Middle School students visiting them on Thursday 23 April to lead their ANZAC Day service. I thank our students for their wonderful contributions to the community of Roseville. I know that the Roseville residents and our students enjoyed appreciated commemorating ANZAC Day together.

Also on Thursday 23 April, Assistant Principal Cameron Campbell and I were honoured to accompany a group of student leaders to the Rotary Club of Templestowe Schools Anzac Day Service at the Templestowe Memorial Reserve. College Captains Taylor and Harris, alongside Middle School Captains Ava and Zoe, laid a floral wreath at the memorial on behalf of all students and staff to honour all our fallen soldiers in a very moving ceremony. It was also wonderful to have our College Vice Captains, Isabel and Rudra, and Middle School Vice Captains, Marcus and Aadya, in attendance. I thank our leaders for being such wonderful ambassadors for our College.

Year 9 City Experience

This week saw half of our Year 9 students participating in the College’s annual City Experience program. With beautiful weather greeting them, students from 9A-9H have been challenged to expand their knowledge of the City of Melbourne and to develop their skills of independence, problem solving and collaboration whilst also demonstrating responsibility for self, and care and compassion for others. As has become a tradition on the first day of the program, the week began with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony at the group’s daily meeting point.  During their week in the city, the students participated in many engaging activities starting with an Amazing Race that assists with their early navigation of the city, and then cycling through other locations including the Melbourne Aquarium, The Old Magistrates Court, The Royal Botanic Gardens, The Shrine of Remembrance, The MCG, Old Melbourne Gaol, City Watch-House, The Big Issue classroom and the Queen Victoria Market.

Our city provides students with a wealth of experiences and insights. Students figure out the city ‘grid’ while moving between locations and get ‘lost’ in hidden laneways that often hold many gems worth exploring. In no time at all they become confident and comfortable as they navigate the tram and train systems, discover the best food locations (I hear that some of our students investigated some of the best desserts the city has to offer!), marvel at the architecture and even enjoy the entertainment from the city buskers. The week-long program certainly provides the opportunity for our Year 9 students to participate in an array of enjoyable and educational pursuits that expand their horizons from the immediate sphere of our local community. This experience also plays a pivotal role in preparing our students for the challenges of our Work Experience Program in Year 10.

I am sure that 9I-9P who participate in the City Experience program in week 5 will also revel in the experiences that await.

Celebrating Student Achievements

2026 Australian Age Swimming Championships

Over the recent school holidays, Year 10 student Ishaaq competed in 8 individual events and 4 relays at the National Age Swimming Championships. Young people came from all over the country to compete in the meet over two weeks up in sunny Queensland. The meet was televised nationally on Nine Now given the popularity of high-level swimming. Many of our current Olympic champions used this event as a stepping stone to their international careers.

Ishaaq’s results were outstanding and he is certainly a young athlete to keep your eye on. He took a national age group record off Olympic champion Kyle Chalmers in the 50m butterfly. A wonderful effort Ishaaq.

200M Freestyle – 2nd

100M Butterfly – 1^st

100M Freestyle – 1st

50M Backstroke – 1st

200M Individual Medley – 2nd

50M Butterfly – 1st (Record of 24.80sec)

50M Freestyle – 2nd

200M Butterfly – 4th

Relays:

4x50M State Freestyle Relay – 3rd

4x50M State Medley Relay – 1st

4x50M Club Freestyle Relay – 3rd

4x50M Club Medley Relay – 2nd

2026 Hockey Australia U16 Championships

Congratulations to Kryshant and Kriish who recently travelled to Hobart to participate in the 2026 Hockey Australia Boys U16 Championships. The event culminated in a hard-fought victory in the final against their long-standing rivals from Western Australia. Quite an extraordinary achievement!

We also congratulate Kryshant who was named ‘Player of the Tournament’ and top goal scorer with 11 goals scored. An incredible accomplishment!

We eagerly await the announcement of the Hockey Australia U16 National Team. We wish both Kryshant and Kriish every success as they pursue their passion for Hocket at this elite level.

State Representation in the Phillip Ginsberg National Championship

Congratulations to Yenji who has been selected by Ice Hockey Victoria to represent the Stage of Victoria in the Phillip Ginsberg National Championship (Australian National Ice Hockey Championship 13 & under).

This prestigious event will be held in Newcastle from July 15th to July 19th with teams participating from all states of Australia.

We wish Yenji every success!

School Zones – See our school zone online

A reminder to our school community, with the primary school transition period currently underway, that the Department of Education has an easy to navigate website that helps parents identify their local public school online.

The Findmyschool.vic.gov.au website was launched with the aim of displaying every Government school zone across the state. The website highlights the choice of public schools available to the Victorian community.

If any parent or student wants to know more about the public secondary school options in our area, or you know someone who is interested in enrolling at our school, try https://www.findmyschool.vic.gov.au today.

Language Translation – now in Compass!

• Chinese Simplified
• Chinese Traditional
• Cantonese
• Korean
• Persian
• Vietnamese

Year 9 into Year 10: Subject choices and VCE Acceleration

Students in Year 9 will soon make some significant choices about their Senior School pathway.

The effort that Year 9 students make now will have an impact on their choices for next year, including potential VCE acceleration and their choice of Maths and Science subjects in Year 10.

We encourage students to work hard across all of their subjects. Year 9 students who would like to accelerate in a VCE subject should be making a consistent effort, responding to teacher feedback, and studying regularly to prepare them for this big step forward.

VCE acceleration criteria

Students can apply to take one VCE study in Year 10, with the exception of ALPHA students who may also be eligible to study Units 1&2 in Mathematical Methods.

The subjects open for acceleration include: Accounting, Art Making and Exhibiting, Biology, Business Management, Classical Studies, Drama, Economics, Environmental Science, Food Studies, Geography, Health and Human Development, History, Legal Studies, Media, Music Performance, Outdoor Education, Physical Education, Politics, Product Design and Technology, Psychology, Visual Communication and Design

To undertake VCE acceleration in Year 10, students must meet the following criteria:

• Excellent academic results.
• An average of 80% across Cycles 1-3 in Year 9 in the subject you wish to accelerate.
• An average of 80% across Cycles 1-3 in Year 9 English/EAL
• An average of 80% across Cycles 1-3 in Year 9 in three related subjects
• Year 8 cycle reports are considered.
• Work Practices– Attitude and Effort on cycle reports are taken into consideration.
• Attendance – a minimum of 90% attendance, excluding approved absences.

Decisions will be based on the extent to which the criteria have been met, as well as the number of places available. Year 11 students will always have priority placement in a Year 11 subject.

Year 10 Maths and Science choices

In addition to the criteria for VCE acceleration, students’ Year 9 Maths and Science results will inform the Maths and Science pathways open to them in Year 10.

Acceleration in Maths and Languages

Acceleration in Maths and Languages, including those studied at weekend schools, is only offered in exceptional circumstances. This is because it is particularly challenging to skip a year of learning in these subjects. To be eligible for acceleration in these subjects, students must not only meet the acceleration requirements but also be achieving an average of 90% in Maths or the Language they wish to study. If students meet these requirements, we run an exam to determine their suitability.

Misconceptions about acceleration

Undertaking a VCE subject in Year 10 does not reduce the workload in Year 12. Students are still expected to complete five subjects in Year 12. The accelerated subject contributes as an additional study, which may provide a bonus contribution to the ATAR and offers valuable early exposure to VCE expectations.

Thinking about acceleration

If you want to start thinking about your subjects now, check out the 2026 VCE/VM Subject Handbook which is published on the College website here.

Applying for acceleration

Application forms for VCE Acceleration will be published via the Compass news feed on June 16. The application form asks you to indicate three preferences for VCE acceleration and to write a handwritten application explaining your suitability.

As students prepare for Senior School, I encourage them – whether they are applying for VCE acceleration or not – to embrace the wonderful learning opportunities we provide by applying themselves consistently across all classes, acting on teacher feedback, building effective study habits, and showing a high degree of organisation and motivation.

Brett Lamb
Assistant Principal – Teaching and Learning

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

Welcome back!

Term 2 is in full swing with students commencing their studies with energy and enthusiasm after the holiday break. The term ahead is full of exciting opportunities to get involved in college life, from clubs and competitions, extracurricular activities and the House Athletics carnival. We urge our Middle School students to get involved in positive and constructive ways this term, further developing their awareness of college life and the wider community.

Our ANZAC Commemoration Assemblies were held last week, hosted by the Middle School Captains. The assemblies provided students with the opportunity to commemorate and show respect to the service and sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand soldiers, veterans, and serving personnel. Students were invited to reflect on their duty as Australian citizens and members of the EDSC community, and to appreciate those who have served in defence of our country and freedoms.

‘Lest we forget’.

Year 9 City Experience

This week, our Year 9 students embarked on their City Experience extended excursion, making the most of this fantastic opportunity to explore key cultural, historical, and modern landmarks, while engaging in hands-on learning experiences.

Form groups A-H headed into the city this week. We were fortunate to have Elder Perry Waldin of The Wurundjeri people, the Traditional Custodians of the land encompassing modern-day Melbourne and the Yarra River catchment, perform a Welcome to Country Smoking Ceremony

On Monday morning, Elder Perry informed students and staff of the Frist Nations connections to the land on which they would be traversing during the week and enlightened the group of his personal connections to the land, waters and country. In concluding his ceremony, Elder Perry invited students to walk through the smoke of burning native eucalyptus leaves, and act that cleanses people and places of bad spirits, offers protection, and provides a safe journey while on Wurundjeri land. All students took the opportunity to do this as Elder Perry kindly wished students the best during their travels on Wurundjeri land, reminding students to first and foremost look after themselves and those around them.

Witnessing the students embrace the varied experiences during this week in the city, we have seen once again how this excursion brings out the best in our young people. This week helped to foster independence, teamwork, problem-solving skills and to develop student’s knowledge of the Melbourne CBD and public transport system, including venues such as the Shrine of Remembrance, Royal Botanic Gardens, the Old Magistrates Court, the City Watch House, the MCG and the Koorie Heritage Trust, just to name a few!

9C Student Reflections of Week 1 City Experience

City Experience was honestly one of the highlights of my schooling so far. Spending a week in the city, talking to people, learning from tour guides, and just navigating the environment on our own really pushed me to become more independent.

One moment that really stuck with me happened during our session with The Big Issue. We met a man named Ray, who had been through a lot in his life. I asked him, “What is the biggest piece of advice you have for everyone in this room?” He didn’t hesitate. He said, “I cannot stress this enough — do not be afraid to ask for help. It’s okay. Everyone needs it.”

That line hit all of us. It was simple, but it carried so much truth. Hearing it from someone who had lived through real hardship made it even more powerful. It’s something I’ll carry with me long after City Experience.

Farbod

Over the past week in the city, all students have taken part in a variety of engaging activities ranging from the cuisine challenge, MCG tour, visits to The Shrine of Remembrance and Botanical Gardens, The Big Issue ‘classroom’ lesson of raising awareness around homelessness and so much more. Many of us have stepped out of our comfort zones, trying different experiences while learning lessons and gaining confidence along the way!

Each experience has not only helped us develop understanding for our community but also the diversity within it. Throughout this trip as Year 9 students, we have also built independence surrounding public transport and learning how to act respectfully in public spaces.

As a cohort, I have noticed we have represented our school positively and we should all be proud of how each student who has approached this challenging yet thrilling experience with curiosity and cooperation!

Zoe

Year 9 Introduction to Senior School Pathways – VCE Acceleration briefing and Morrisby Testing

Year 9 students will start to make some significant choices about their future Senior School pathways in the coming months. With this in mind, Year 9 students were addressed last term by Assistant Principal, Mr Brett Lamb, regarding the importance of their studies this year and the impact that their efforts, attitudes, and achievements will have on their choices for Year 10 and VCE.

This briefing during our Values Assembly specifically explored the criteria that students will have to meet if they would like to undertake a VCE subject in Year 10. In addition, their Year 9 Maths results and Science results will also inform the Maths and Science pathways open to them in Year 10. These early discussions have taken place so that students understand the impact their Semester 1 academic, and attitude and effort results will have on their pathways.

We encourage all students and families to carefully consider the decisions they make now and to start researching and inquiring about potential pathways beyond EDSC, so they are prepared for Course Counselling later in the year.

Finally, I wish all students, staff and families a fantastic term ahead.

Giulia Catalano

Assistant Principal of Middle School

Entering an Attendance Note for Your Child

When your child is absent, you are required to enter their absence on Compass. Please find attached a useful guide on how to enter an attendance note on Compass.

Entering an Attendance Note for Your Child

It is important that you use the right explanation for why your child is absent. We would like all parents/carers to note that the attendance explanation code ‘Sorry Business’ is for Koorie community absences only. Please do not use this code for any other absence. If you have any questions relating to your child’s absence, please contact our Attendance Officer – Amanda Pigdon.

Uniform Reminder

The East Doncaster Secondary College Student Dress Code aims to foster a sense of community and belonging and encourages students to develop pride in their appearance, support East Doncaster Secondary College’s commitment to ensuring that our students feel equal and are dressed safely and appropriately for school activities. Our dress code also aims to reduce student competition on the basis of clothing and enhance the profile and identity of the school and its students within the wider community.

Recently, there has been a notable increase in items being worn to school that are not in line with the EDSC Student Dress Code. These items include branded and plain black tracksuit pants (mostly Elite Eleven), runners (mostly black Nike Air Force 1 and Nike Low Recraft Grade), branded socks (mostly white Nike), hoodies and large and oversized hoop earrings. Please see the visual attached to this newsletter for examples of these non-uniform items.

With the cooler months approaching, please be reminded of our uniform expectations particularly regarding layering for warmth. Students are not permitted to wear any of the listed items above to school or during school events.

Please note that whilst the pants/shorts/skirt are not required to have the EDSC logo, the expectation is that the STYLE, COLOUR and MATERIAL are a close match to those sold at PSW, our official unform supplier. If families

have any questions about this, they should contact Year Level Coordinators for advice prior to purchasing.

If tracksuit pants without the College logo are worn as part of the PE Uniform, they must not contain any visible branding. Only plain navy-blue tracksuit pants are acceptable. Black flare pants and leggings are not permitted to be worn at school.

Students are welcome to wear additional layers underneath their uniforms. These layers must be plain white, with no logos, and covered by the school shirt, jumper or jacket. These additional layers should not replace any official school uniform items. If students choose to remove an outer layer, any non-school items must also be removed and kept out of sight.

Other clothing accessories, religious or otherwise, should be plain black or navy, including scarves, hats and beanies. These items can be worn to and from school when it is particularly cold although are not to be worn indoors. Hair colours should be natural.

Additionally, PE uniform should only be worn on days when Middle School students have a PE or Sport class. Wearing the PE uniform on non-PE days does not align with our uniform guidelines. For Senior School students, PE uniform is only to be worn on designated PE practical days, not every day students have PE. Colder weather in the winter terms does not permit students to wear the PE uniform as an alternative to the formal school uniform.

We kindly ask that families take the opportunity over the school holidays to review their student’s uniform items to ensure they have the correct school uniform. Please prepare adequately for the cooler months ahead and if necessary, purchase winter uniform items accordingly. Middle School students have been reminded of this expectation during their Term 1 Values Assemblies and during classroom visits by their Year Level Coordinators, where consequences for being out of uniform next term and for the remainder of the year were reiterated. Students should expect to be issued a lunch time detention if they are not in the correct school uniform. Senior School students have been reminded through Year Level Coordinator communication and classroom teacher conversations and reminders. We ask that parents and carers support students in being in correct school uniform. Should families require support with uniform items, please reach out the Year Level Coordinators.

College Uniform

For Term 2 and Term 3 only, please refer to the Winter Uniform requirements.
The expectation is for students to wear the dress and shorts only in Term 1 and 4 and 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.

Entering an Attendance Note for Your Child

When your child is absent, you are required to enter their absence on Compass. Please find attached a useful guide on how to enter an attendance note on Compass.

Entering an Attendance Note for Your Child

It is important that you use the right explanation for why your child is absent. We would like all parents/carers to note that the attendance explanation code ‘Sorry Business’ is for Koorie community absences only. Please do not use this code for any other absence. If you have any questions relating to your child’s absence, please contact our Attendance Officer – Amanda Pigdon.

Uniform reminder

The East Doncaster Secondary College Student Dress Code aims to foster a sense of community and belonging and encourages students to develop pride in their appearance, support East Doncaster Secondary College’s commitment to ensuring that our students feel equal and are dressed safely and appropriately for school activities. Our dress code also aims to reduce student competition on the basis of clothing and enhance the profile and identity of the school and its students within the wider community.

Recently, there has been a notable increase in items being worn to school that are not in line with the EDSC Student Dress Code. These items include branded and plain black tracksuit pants (mostly Elite Eleven), runners (mostly black Nike Air Force 1 and Nike Low Recraft Grade), branded socks (mostly white Nike), hoodies and large and oversized hoop earrings. Please see the visual attached to this newsletter for examples of these non-uniform items.

With the cooler months approaching, please be reminded of our uniform expectations particularly regarding layering for warmth. Students are not permitted to wear any of the listed items above to school or during school events.

Please note that whilst the pants/shorts/skirt are not required to have the EDSC logo, the expectation is that the STYLE, COLOUR and MATERIAL are a close match to those sold at PSW, our official unform supplier. If families have any questions about this, they should contact Year Level Coordinators for advice prior to purchasing.

If tracksuit pants without the College logo are worn as part of the PE Uniform, they must not contain any visible branding. Only plain navy-blue tracksuit pants are acceptable. Black flare pants and leggings are not permitted to be worn at school.

Students are welcome to wear additional layers underneath their uniforms. These layers must be plain white, with no logos, and covered by the school shirt, jumper or jacket. These additional layers should not replace any official school uniform items. If students choose to remove an outer layer, any non-school items must also be removed and kept out of sight.

Other clothing accessories, religious or otherwise, should be plain black or navy, including scarves, hats and beanies. These items can be worn to and from school when it is particularly cold although are not to be worn indoors. Hair colours should be natural.

Additionally, PE uniform should only be worn on days when Middle School students have a PE or Sport class. Wearing the PE uniform on non-PE days does not align with our uniform guidelines. For Senior School students, PE uniform is only to be worn on designated PE practical days, not every day students have PE. Colder weather in the winter terms does not permit students to wear the PE uniform as an alternative to the formal school uniform. 

We kindly ask that families take the opportunity over the school holidays to review their student’s uniform items to ensure they have the correct school uniform. Please prepare adequately for the cooler months ahead and if necessary, purchase winter uniform items accordingly. Middle School students have been reminded of this expectation during their Term 1 Values Assemblies and during classroom visits by their Year Level Coordinators, where consequences for being out of uniform next term and for the remainder of the year were reiterated. Students should expect to be issued a lunch time detention if they are not in the correct school uniform. Senior School students have been reminded through Year Level Coordinator communication and classroom teacher conversations and reminders. We ask that parents and carers support students in being in correct school uniform. Should families require support with uniform items, please reach out the Year Level Coordinators.

College Uniform

For Term 2 and Term 3 only, please refer to the Winter Uniform requirements.
The expectation is for students to wear the dress and shorts only in Term 1 and 4 and 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.

Lost property

Once again, the Lost Property room at EDSC is overflowing with personal belongings that are unnamed and not labelled. ☹

See the photos for last term’s property and the latest collection!

Items can be collected from First Aid on regular school days, at recess, lunchtime or before /after school.

Labelling a student’s belongings for school is a simple but highly effective way to prevent unnecessary loss and expense.

Clear labelling significantly increases the chances that belongings will be returned and most importantly, it helps families avoid the ongoing cost of replacing lost items, which can add up over the school year, making labelling a practical and economical habit.

Suggested websites such as Oz Labels and Stuck On You create iron-on and vinyl stick-on labels than can be purchased online.

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

Anzac Day Speeches

It was such a privilege for international students to have the opportunity to share their global perspective on war at our annual Anzac Day ceremonies. This year our Year 12 Captains and Vice-Captains Nicole from China, Sivinn and Jayden (both from Cambodia) all shared how Anzac Day had helped them to remember the sacrifices that people from their nations and even families had made during times of conflict. They also shared how important and respectful they think it is to have a public holiday put aside to acknowledge such an important occasion.

Simon Veerhuis
International Student Coordinator

Welcome back for Term 2!

After a jam-packed start to the year with lunchtime groups, Lunar New Year, and Cultural Diversity Week celebrations in Wellbeing, we’re excited for everything this term has in store.

Here’s what’s coming up:

• We will be acknowledging IDAHOBIT, National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week, as well as celebrating Pride Month with our annual Pride Party.
• ‘Chill Space’ will continue Monday lunchtimes in C07. If you’re looking for a place to relax, play a quiet game, do some craft or simply unwind, we’d love to see you there.
• Breakfast Club is also continuing Monday mornings! Drop in for a toasted sandwich, a chat about your weekend or a friendly game of Uno.

We’re really looking forward to the term ahead and all the exciting opportunities to connect and celebrate together.

As always, remember to prioritise your wellbeing alongside your studies. We’re here to support you whenever you need.

Meg Crupi

Student Wellbeing Coordinator

Exercise can improve your school-work!

Did you know that exercise can improve your memory and concentration?  However sadly it is often the first thing we stop when we get busy.

Here’s how exercise can help:

• Physical exercise can boost your memory and improve the functioning of your brain. So whether you’re revising for an exam or doing class work, you’ll be able to take in and remember what you have learnt much more easily if you have been doing some regular exercise.
• Any type of intense physical activity improves blood to flow to the brain.  This means that just 20 minutes of exercise before studying can improve your concentration and help you focus on your learning.
• Physical activity raises your endorphin levels, the body’s famous ‘feel good’ chemical produced by the brain.  This chemical also reduces your stress levels. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, some regular exercise will help you to maintain a positive mind-set.
• Exercise boosts creativity and mental energy. So if you’re in need of inspiration, your big idea could be just a walk or jog away.

More info see the attached link: Study boosting benefits

Krissy Veerhuis

Student Wellbeing

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.

What is taught in the Secondary Years?

Respectful Relationships in the secondary years focuses on treating everyone with respect and dignity and teaches students about the relationship between gender and power.

The RRRR teaching and learning resources provide tailored materials for years 7 to 12, including age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that help students learn new skills and build empathy, confidence and resilience.

What are the benefits of students learning about Respectful Relationships?

We know that a good education is about more than simply getting good marks. It is about supporting children to become contributing members of our communities, with productive and healthy adult lives.

Evidence shows that respectful relationships education:

• helps to equip children with the skills to communicate positively and respectfully, build positive relationships and challenge stereotypes that don’t support equality.

• positively impacts academic outcomes, mental health, classroom behaviour and student-teacher relationships (Our Watch, 2016).

Diversity and RRRR Calendar dates

23 April – World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day

28 April – World Day for Safety and Health at Work

12 May – International Nurses Day

17 May – International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT)

24 May – World Schizophrenia Awareness Day

26 May – National Sorry Day

27 May – 3 Jun – Reconciliation Week

5 June – World Environment Day

10 June – First Responders Day

15-21 June – Men’s Health Week

20 June – World Refugee Day

5-12 July – NAIDOC Week

IDAHOBIT DAY – 17 May 2026

1. What is IDAHOBIT?

IDAHOBIT is the anniversary of May 17, 1990, when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from the Classification of Diseases. While we celebrate this milestone and other advancements in LGBTQIA+ equality, the unfortunate reality is that these are all too recent in our history:

The first Mardi Gras pride march was held in Sydney in 1978, which was met with violence from police. Those who marched were beaten inside police cells and had their names published by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Tasmania was the last jurisdiction in Australia to decriminalise homosexuality in May 1997. The majority of Australians today were alive during a time when it was illegal to be gay.

The Marriage Equality plebiscite was held in 2017. While marriage equality was passed, 38.4% of Australians who voted (4.8 million people) voted against it.

The first IDAHOBIT was held in 2005 and is today acknowledged by millions of people globally. While IDAHOBIT has evolved over these years, the purpose remains the same – celebrate the progress we have made while also raising awareness for the discrimination that LGBTQIA+ people still face today.

2. What does IDAHOBIT stand for?

IDAHOBIT has had many names and meanings around the world since 2005 when the day was first acknowledged.

2005 – the day was known as IDAHO, standing for International Day Against Homophobia

2011 – The name was updated to IDAHOT, standing for International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

2018 – The name was updated to IDAHOBIT, standing for International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersex Discrimination and Transphobia.

2022 – IDAHOBIT grew to be referenced to as the Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination to specifically include those of us who are lesbian, queer and asexual.

You can refer to the day as any of the above – all are correct. You may refer to the most up-to-date version if you wish, or simply IDAHOBIT.

3. Why is IDAHOBIT Important Today?

The recent nature of the LGBTQIA+ human rights movement means that stigma and discrimination are still prevalent across the world. This is also true in Australia, where:

68% of LGBTQIA+ employees are not out to everyone at work (1)

2 in 3 LGBTQIA+ youth experience abuse due to their identity (2)

35% of LGBTQIA+ Australians have experienced verbal abuse in the past 12 months (3)

While experiences of discrimination most commonly occur in public and at work, there are also many instances where inequality and discrimination are still protected by government. In Australia:

• LGBTQIA+ people can be discriminated against by religious organisations, including LGBTQIA+ teachers and students being expelled from religious schools.
• Many intersex people experience medical procedures performed on their bodies that modify their sex characteristics without their consent.
• LGBTQIA+ people are not adequately included in the census and other government research. This results in less data.
• Trans and gender diverse people in most states experience harsh and unnecessary barriers to updating their birth certificates, and therefore other legal documents.

These are just some of the issues LGBTQIA+ people face in Australia today. An up-to-date list can be found via Equality Australia. Bottom of Form

Manningham Events

Manningham Youth Services – Colour Fun Run – IDAHOBIT DAY

Sunday 17 May 2026

11am – 2pm, Finns Reserve, Free

Free event for LGBTQIA+ young people ages 12 to 25, allies and families in Manningham.

Celebrate IDAHOBIIT Day with a colour run and picnic lunch. Meet new friends and connect with local support services.

https://www.manningham.vic.gov.au/events/colour-fun-run-idahobit-day

 RR Novel of the Week

A brilliant contemporary YA coming-of-age novel about three small-town Aboriginal friends finding their way towards adulthood, from the multi-award-winning author of The Boy from the Mish, We Didn’t Think It Through and I’m Not Really Here.

As we step into the shopping centre car park, white spray-paint on the orange brick wall catches my eye. Two council workers in high-vis shirts are on ladders, scrubbing away the faded WHITE POWER.

In the idyllic coastal town of Carraway’s Point, four Aboriginal boys grew up together on Chopin Drive, carefree and close. But they drifted apart in high school, and everything changed forever the night Brandon was killed by a white cop.

Now racial tension is brewing, and each boy must wrestle with grief and their own complicated lives.

Kallum has lost his sport scholarship and must return from Sydney.

Jordy contends with family responsibilities and a closeted boyfriend.

Dylan was the only witness to Brandon’s death, and he must testify in court.

Struggling to contain their emotions and process the murder of their friend, Kallum, Jordy and Dylan must navigate explosive events in a way that opens up a future they can’t yet see.

A searing and unputdownable YA novel from acclaimed award-winning author Gary Lonesborough.

‘… [a] powerful story exploring events that draw young men together and drive them apart.’ – Books+Publishing

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

New Book of the Year Shadow Judging program open now

We’re looking for students of all year levels to sign up as Book of the Year Shadow Judges.

Shadow Judging is an exciting new program we are launching at EDSC as part of the Children’s Book Council Australia (CBCA) Book Week. Each year during Book Week, a panel of CBCA judges votes on the Book of the Year in several categories.

Students who sign up as Shadow Judges will read as many of the six shortlisted Books of the Year as they can between now and August 1st, then meet with other EDSC Shadow Judges and vote for their favourite. The winning books will be declared EDSC’s Books of the Year.

Students can sign up as Shadow Judges in either the Older Readers or Younger Readers category.

As a Shadow Judge, students will:

• Get priority access to loans of the best new books of the last year
• Meet other students who are keen readers
• Attend an exclusive lunchtime Book of the Year celebration in the library during Book Week in August.

Students can register their interest in being a Shadow Judge on the form on our library website, or come chat to us at the library loans desk.

There is further information on the Shadow Judging program on the library website, including advice to help students pick the right reading category for them. Students can preview the Book of the Year shortlisted books on the CBCA website.

We are very excited to embark on this new project with the enthusiastic readers of EDSC.

Reading Challenge March results

The 2026 Reading Challenge at EDSC is off to a great start. At the end of March, students had already read an impressive 841 books.

Congratulations to Yastika N. of 8N for winning March’s monthly Reading Challenge prize draw. Yastika chose her rewards from our prize box full of notebooks and pins.

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 January 1 until 4pm Tuesday September 1, 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

ANZAC Assemblies

Congratulations to Shaan S, Kai-Er Y, Chamber Strings and the combined vocal groups who performed in the ANZAC Assemblies last Friday. The music these students provided to these special assemblies leant an appropriate standard of solemnity and professionalism.

Music Camp

Our senior ensembles Chamber Strings, Colla Voce and Symphonic Band, head down to Dromana next week for the annual 3-day Music Camp. A reminder to involved students to meet with all your camp gear, including instruments where appropriate, at the PAC at the start of Period 1 on Wednesday.

Please check the event information on Compass carefully to make sure you bring all the required items, including music stands, pencils, spare reeds/strings.

Music Camp, combined with last week’s ANZAC Assemblies and the NEVR Concert in week 4, mean that there are unavoidable disruptions to normal music lessons for this week. Around their commitments, music teachers will try to fit in lessons wherever possible.

NEVR Youth Concert

55 EDSC students have been selected to represent the College in this year’s Northeastern Victoria Region Youth Concert at Hamer Hall on 13 May. If you are involved in this, please make sure to complete parental consent on Compass for the rehearsal days, and the trip into the city during the day on 13 May.

Students are welcome to make their own way into Hamer Hall during the day on 13 May instead of taking the bus with the group, but please inform Carl Williams of this in writing. Exact soundcheck times for each ensemble during the day will be confirmed in the Compass event as soon as they are available.

Symphony Orchestra members will need to make their own way home in the afternoon, or remain in the city for the evening performance.

All students are responsible for getting to Hamer Hall for the evening performance, and tickets for family and friends are available from artscentremelbourne.com.au

Music Performance Uniform Reminder

For students new to the program, a reminder that you will need the black Performing Arts uniform for our first major music concerts on 28 May (senior ensembles) and 24 June (all other ensembles). This uniform is available from psw.com.au, and don’t leave it too late to order in case your size is not in stock

Carl Williams
Instrumental Music Coordinator

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

National Youth Science Forum STEM Hub

NYSF STEM hub was a four-day long holiday program run by the National Youth Science Forum. The program in Melbourne varies, but I went to Swinburne, Australian Defence Force barracks, CSL pharmaceuticals, Monash Clayton, and most excitingly, the Australian Synchrotron.

Apart from the excellent itinerary, I met like-minded peers from all across Australia and chatted with industry professionals in various STEM fields. Examples include, an astronomy professor at Swinburne, a chemical engineering PhD at Monash, various nuclear scientists and technicians at the Synchrotron, and engineers working for the ADF (just to name a few).

Overall, the program was definitely time well spent, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone interested in STEM. There’s also a January program that’s much larger in scale in Canberra and or Brisbane.

Evan – Year 11D

Student Achievement: U16 National Hockey Championships

Congratulations to Year 10 students Kryshant and Kriish, who recently represented Victoria at the 2026 Hockey Australia Boys U16 Championships in Hobart. Following a week of high-level competition, the team secured a national title after a hard-fought victory against Western Australia in the final.

Kryshant was named Player of the tournament and finished as the leading goal scorer with 11 goals. Kriish was also instrumental to the team’s success demonstrating strong defensive play to complement his natural passion to score goals. Both boys are currently awaiting the announcement of the U16 national team of which both were selected in last year. We wish them the best of luck following their performances on the national stage.

Adam Palma

Interschool Sport Co-ordinator

EDSC success at the Whitehorse Division Cross Country!

The EDSC Cross Country team participated in the Whitehorse Division Cross Country on Thursday April 24 at Ruffey Lake Park.

With a strong presence in each age group on the day, our students represented the college in outstanding fashion – with the following results being major highlights from the day:

Boys 12-13 Years Age Group

3rd – Javis C

15th – Gully C

Girls 12-13 Years Age Group

2nd – Alyssa C

4th – Chloe Y

5th – Claire Y

10th – Claudia

Boys 14 Years Age Group
2nd – Ari V

3rd – Cody C

5th – Nick D

14th – Josh T

Age Group Team Winner – East Doncaster SC

Girls 14 Years Age Group
1st – Alyxa S

4th – Annabella K 

Boys 15 Years Age Group

6th – Farbod M

12th – Ryan L

Girls 15 Years Age Group

10th – Cally Y

15th – Tanya K

Boys 16 Years Age Group

11th – Jonathan N

12th – Noah C

14th – Owen L

15th – Louis F

Girls 16 Years Age Group

5th – Anna D

9th – Amanda K

10th – Shi-Han H

Boys 17-20 Years Age Group

8th – Didi C

Girls 17-20 Years Age Group

6th – Agnes M

These students will represent the college at the EMR Cross Country on June 11 at the Yarra Valley Racecourse in late Term 2.

Michael James

House Activities and Carnivals Coordinator

East Doncaster SC finish 9th at the 2026 SSV State Swimming Championship!

The EDSC Swimming team finished 9th at the 2026 SSV State Swimming Championship held at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre on Thursday 23 April.

This is the third top ten finish for EDSC in a row – an amazing effort by all team members, well done!The major highlights from an action-packed, historic day for EDSC were:

Ishaaq I
1st – Boys 15 50m Breaststroke (New SSV Record)
1st – Boys 15 50m Butterfly (New SSV Record)

1st – Boys 15 50m Freestyle (New SSV Record)

1st – Boys 14 50m Backstroke (New SSV Record)
1st – Boys 12-15 200m IM (New SSV Record)

Alyssa

1st – Girls 12-13 50m Breaststroke

1st – Girls 12-13 50m Backstroke

1st – Girls 15 Freestyle Relay
Sia K, Aliyah L, Cally Y, Rachael W

Leona L
2nd – Girls 16 50m Breaststroke

Ethan M

2nd – Boys 12-13 50m Backstroke

4th – Boys 12-13 50m Freestyle

2nd – Girls 12-13 Freestyle Relay
Alyssa C, Claire Y, Chloe Y, Yi Shae G

Cally Y

3rd – Girls 12-15 200m Freestyle

Special mention to Ishaaq who broke five state records on the day (from his five events!) – an amazing performance!

Michael James
House Activities and Carnivals Coordinator

Join Art Club, Get Creative Every Wednesday!

Calling all artists! Looking for a fun and creative way to spend your afternoons? Come along to Art Club, running every Wednesday after school from 3:30 pm in room S03.

Whether you love painting, drawing, sculpting, or just trying something new, Art Club is the perfect place to express yourself, meet new people, and build your skills in a relaxed and welcoming environment after school.

We’ve got some awesome activities planned for you to choose from, rotated every week, including drawing, painting, printing techniques, and lots more!

Sign up by emailing Mr Easton or turn up on the day. No experience needed to join, bring your creativity and a positive attitude!

Come join us, get inspired, and make something amazing. We can’t wait to see you there!

Sienna – Year 12H

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.

25 May 2026 – PFA AGM

The PFA will hold its next monthly meeting on Monday 25 May 2026 at 7.00pm in the school staff room in the main office block.

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.

A friendly reminder to the new members who have joined 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.

Please scan the QR code below to join the PFA community on WhatsApp and stay updated with PFA events.

28 May 2026 – Winter Music Concerts

Its once again time for EDSC’s talented young students to entertain us with their performances at the Annual Winter Music Concerts.

The PFA Committee is also very enthusiastic to set up a refreshment stall between 7.30 pm and 8.00 pm (the break between the 2 concerts).  Whilst you interact with the community present there, please visit the PFA canteen and treat yourselves to some yummy snacks, hot food and hot beverages.

If anyone from the wider school community would like to volunteer their assistance or donation of homemade food for this event, please forward your interest via email to address edscpfa@gmail.com.

10 May 2026 – Mother’s Day 2026

We celebrate Mother’s Day on the 10 May, a special time to show appreciation for the incredible women who support, guide, and care for us every day.

To all our students who will take the time to celebrate their mums, grandmothers, and mother figures we hope you enjoy making them feel special. Whether it is through a handmade card, a kind gesture, or simply spending time together, your efforts will surely mean the world to them.

Let’s continue to show gratitude and love not just on Mother’s Day, but every day.

Special Thanks

The Parent and Friends Association of East Doncaster Secondary College (EDSC) would like to sincerely thank everyone from the wider school community who generously volunteered their time and effort to support the Parent – Student – Teacher Conferences. Your contributions helped ensure the event ran smoothly and successfully, and your ongoing support is greatly appreciated.

Thank-you to everyone who has purchased a Membership from us so far!

To purchase your Membership and support our fundraising please use the following link and order: https://subscribe.entertainment.com.au/fundraiser/1863×41

Current Campaign – Buy One Membership, Get One Free. Plus win a Baltic Cruise.

Promotion Dates:  Friday 1st May 2026 at 5:00 pm – Thursday 14 May 2026 at 5:00 pm

The Offer:  Buy One Membership, Get One Free. Plus win a Baltic Cruise.

From Friday 1st May until 5pm AEST / 7pm NZST Thursday 14th May, when you purchase an Entertainment Membership you will receive an additional Entertainment Membership FREE.

Plus, every Entertainment Membership purchased during May goes into the draw to win a spectacular Baltic cruise including flights, hotel, transfers, and premium onboard inclusions.

*Terms & Conditions Apply. Please visit www.entertainment.com.au/promotions to view.
*Terms & Conditions Apply. Please visit www.entertainmentnz.com/promotions to view

👉 Click below to buy your Membership today:

https://subscribe.entertainment.com.au/fundraiser/1863×41)

And the best part? 20% of your Membership price supports our fundraiser! 🙌

Thank you for your continued support!

If you have any questions the Entertainment Customer Service Team are always available to help.
Please call 1300 159 707 or email contact@entertainment.com.au
For more information about the App, head over to our App FAQs on our website https://www.entertainment.com.au/faq
All Member offers are subject to terms and conditions. Check individual offers on the Entertainment Membership App or www.entertainment.com.au for more information. For all dining offers, it is optional for participating businesses to accept your
Entertainment Memberships on all official Australian and New Zealand public holidays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Valentine’s Day.

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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).
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