Welcome
McKinnon Secondary College lives by its motto ‘Wisdom and Service’. We foster a love of learning and respect for diversity. We strive to nurture empathetic, creative and confident young people who are connected to our community and Indigenous heritage. We want our students to embrace opportunities for continuous improvement and accept the challenges of a complex and globalised world.
News
Annual Winter Concert Tickets
The McKinnon Secondary College Annual Winter Concert is a showcase of musical excellence within the Victorian State Education system, held each year at Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University. As a public government school, McKinnon SC exemplifies the high standard of music education provided in Victoria, with students from all year levels performing in a variety of ensembles. The concert unites the school community—families, friends, and staff—to celebrate student achievement and the vibrancy of the arts in Victorian state schools. Robert Blackwood HallMonash University Clayton Campus When: Thursday 28 August 2025, 6:00pmTickets On Sale NowTickets: https://www.monash.edu/performing-arts-centres/?post_type=cpt_events&p=15550&preview=true Tickets for this event are strictly limited to 4 per family.Please note: tickets are NOT required for students who are performing
Languages News
SPANISH EDUCATION CHANCELLOR VISIT On Thursday 24 July, we had the opportunity to get a visit from the Spanish Education Chancellor, Rosa Maria Prieto y Andres Gomez, Technical Assessor. They came to visit the school and to talk to students about the culture and the benefits of learning Spanish. Students got a great understanding of the Camino the Santiago, one of the most famous pilgrimages in the world. Students explored its origins, historical facts and its importance in today's tourism world. Ana GomezSpanish TeacherYEAR 8 FRENCH CLASS EXPOS At the end of the semester, some of our Year 8 French classes participated in classroom expos on topics associated with the cultures of the French-speaking world. There was some wonderful work, and everyone learned something new and interesting. There was information about a range of topics, from snails, through desserts, onto the Eiffel Tower, and including a presentation about Eurovision contributions from a range of French-speaking countries. Jennifer LyndLanguages Learning Area ManagerKUMMARGEE EDUCATION PERFECT CHALLENGE During the last two weeks of term, our Year 8 language students were busy building up Kummargee points in their own Education Perfect challenge. This was limited to the three languages taught at McKinnon - French, German and Spanish. The winning class is 8D. Second place goes to 8A, and third to 8E. The following students earned certificates and were placed as listed: Gold - Meredith (1st) & Evelyn (2nd)Silver - Davide (3rd)Bronze - Eloise (4th), Shahar (5th) & Charlie (6th) Jennifer LyndLanguages Learning Area Manager
French Model UN
On Friday 25 July, seven of our Year 12 students proudly represented our school at the French Model United Nations event, held at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership in Melbourne. This prestigious event, conducted entirely in French, brought together students from across Victoria to roleplay as delegates from various countries, tackling pressing global issues in a simulated UN setting. This year’s theme, Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development: Harnessing the Benefits – Safeguarding Human Rights, sparked dynamic debate and thoughtful discussion among participants. Our students took on the challenge with enthusiasm and flair, representing three countries: South Korea, the USA and Ireland. They spent the day negotiating, presenting speeches, and drafting resolutions - all while speaking French from start to finish! It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to put their language skills to the test in a real-world context and gain insight into international diplomacy. They had an absolute blast embracing their roles as global delegates and left the event inspired and proud of their achievements. Bravo to our talented linguists for their impressive efforts and commitment! Cedric ChamontinFrench Teacher
Frankston Jazz Bands Showcase
On Saturday 28 June, the Senior Stage Band participated in the Jazz Band Showcase at Frankston High School’s junior campus, an event dedicated to outstanding jazz ensembles from across the region. The concert opened with an energetic performance by the McKinnon Senior Stage Band, featuring a diverse setlist; Taking the stage first, the band set a high standard for the afternoon with dynamic playing and impressive solo features, including a vocal spotlight by Olivia (Year 12) and flugel horn feature by Arnav (Year 12). The program also included the three talented Frankston High School stage bands, each bringing their own style and musicality to the showcase. A particular highlight was the guest performance by the Westernport Big Band, a community group known for their vibrant sound and spirit. McKinnon musicians even had the unique opportunity to sit in and play alongside Westernport Big Band members, creating a memorable and hands-on experience. The Jazz Band Showcase was an amazing day of music making, marked by outstanding performances and a shared passion for jazz. Thank you to Mr Serebrianik for organising this opportunity and Mr Rex for the support on the day. The event was a fantastic chance to collaborate and a reminder of the energy and camaraderie that makes jazz so special. Dmitry SerebrianikActing Head of Performing Arts
German Model UN
On Wednesday 23 July senior students of German went to the German Model UN, held at the Bastow Institutes' North Melbourne centre. The German Model UN simulates a General Assembly meeting of the United Nations in New York and is conducted completely in the German language. This year's focus was efforts to end global poverty and hunger, and our students in two teams represented the views of South Korea and of the United States of America. There was quite a bit of spirited debate, with some national delegates gently having a go at another nation's point of view, and it was great to see students eagerly mixing with others from other schools, when the unmoderated caucus enabled them to find possible allies and negotiate with them for support for an amendment to the draft resolution. A great opportunity to use the German language with other students in a guided setting. One of our students, Benny (Year 11), says: "The German Model UN experience is like no other, a great way to improve your language skills and explore different countries in a new view. From debating different amendments to creating your own. We highly recommend getting involved." David NuttingGerman Teacher
McKinnon Debaters Sharpen Their Skills at Winter Debate Camp
On Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 of July, during the school holidays, members of the Year 9 McKinnon Secondary College Debating Team had the exciting opportunity to attend the annual Winter Debating Workshop, hosted by the Debaters Association of Victoria at City Cite on Flinders Street. Throughout the two days, we mingled with some of the state’s most accomplished debaters, including students from leading independent schools such as Scotch College, Carey Grammar, and the selective-entry Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School. It was an inspiring environment that enabled us to test our skills against strong competition while also learning from experienced adjudicators and speakers. Each day was structured around four key sessions:A topic seminarA secret topic debateLunch breakA debate skills seminarFollowed by a second secret topic debate. This intense schedule gave us the chance to sharpen our debating abilities, especially in the form of impromptu speaking as well as gaining valuable insights ahead of our upcoming State play-offs. As a proud member of the McKinnon Debating Team, I can confidently say the camp was an enriching and motivating experience. We not only improved our debating techniques but also built connections with the wider debating community. A huge thank you to Miss Zappner and Miss Ozcagli for making this opportunity possible and for their continued support of our team. Arnav, Year 9 Student
Senior Girls Soccer Team SMR Champions!
Our Senior Girls Soccer team put on a brilliant display of skill, teamwork and determination, winning all four of their games yesterday to claim the title of SMR Champions. They capped off the day with a tense 1-0 victory over MacRob in the final. The team was led superbly all day by our rock-solid defence and outstanding goalkeeping. Kaia (Year 12), Olin (Year 11), Dayna (Year 12), Talia (Year 12), Jessica (Year 12) and Emily (Year 12) were near-impenetrable, conceding just one goal across the entire competition. Their calmness under pressure and strong communication laid the foundation for success. In the midfield, Harley (Year 11), Shauna (Year 12) and Sienna (Year 8 student who did not look out of place in the Year 12 team!) dominated play with energy, composure and clever ball movement, consistently setting up attacking opportunities and winning crucial contests. Up front, our wingers and forwards Tani (Year 11), Clara (Year 11), Anasia (Year 12) and Jaime (Year 12) worked tirelessly, making smart runs, applying forward pressure and threatening the goals all day. Importantly, the team was boosted by a positive and supportive bench who brought energy and encouragement at every opportunity, playing a key role in keeping the team focused and connected throughout the competition. It was a full squad effort, and the team can be incredibly proud of their undefeated day. With this victory, McKinnon now looks ahead to the State Championships in September – and if this performance is anything to go by, the team is ready for the challenge! Michael WoolhouseCoach
Junior Ensembles Concert
Congratulations to everyone who contributed to the success of the Junior Ensembles Concert held on Wednesday, 2nd July. The evening was a true celebration of musical talents, featuring outstanding performances from all Year 7 Band and Strings groups, Extension Strings, Junior Choir, and the Intermediate Stage Band. With over 200 students taking part, the concert was a showcase of our school’s musical community. For our Year 7 students, this concert marked their very first performance—a testament to their dedication, hard work, and countless hours of rehearsals and practice since the start of the year. The enthusiasm and joy shared by both the performers and the audience created an unforgettable atmosphere. Thank you to our incredible Performing Arts staff for their unwavering commitment to preparing the students for this special night. We also extend our gratitude to the AV and facilities teams for ensuring everything ran smoothly behind the scenes. Well done to all involved. It was a wonderful way to end the term! Here is a reflection from Year 7 student Daniel: Nerves and excitement echoed throughout the hall as they sat down and prepared to play their instruments. The bright lights shone down on the performers. This was the night of Wednesday 2 July, a night that the Year 7 participants of junior ensembles would never forget, as it was their first ever ensembles concert. The Year 7 Combined Concert Band commenced the event with the pieces ‘Centurion’ by Mark Williams and ‘Shine’ by Rob Grice. They were conducted by Ms Tracy Videon and Mr Paschal Lee. Even though it was their first time, they performed with enthusiasm and focus, delighting the crowd with their energetic opening pieces. Next came another level of experience, with the Year 7 Extension Strings. This group was more advanced as they had previously learned their instruments outside of school. They played the piece ‘Mamba Samba’ by Keith Sharp and was conducted by Ms Clare Bugeja. They performed with precision and dedication, showing their proficiency. After the Extension Strings, the mood shifted to the spirited voices of the Junior Singers. The talented group was directed by Ms Laura Main and they sang ‘Why We Sing’ by Greg Gilpin and ‘Roar’ by Katy Perry, arranged by Roger Emerson. Their joyful vocals harmonized throughout the hall, providing the audience with a spectacular performance. The stage was then passed on to the Year 7 Combined String Orchestra, who were conducted by Mr Michael Lee. Although it was also their first time, they performed their pieces ‘Olga Square Dance’ by Pat Legg and ‘First Scale March’ by Mark Williams with great expression and technique. To end the night, the Intermediate Stage Band, consisting of Year 10 to Year 12 students, performed ‘Shiny Stockings’ by Frank Foster, arranged by Sammy Nestico, ‘Strollin’ by Nick Mulder and ‘1-800-Got-Funk’ by Vince Gassi. They were directed by Mr Stuart Byrne and performed with great expertise and artistry. In conclusion, the students performed exceptionally well and should be incredibly proud of themselves. Many thanks to Ms Megan Papworth, Head of Performing Arts and the two Instrumental Music Managers, Ms Clare Bugeja and Mr Dmitry Serebrianik, as well as all the other Performing Arts staff for their efforts preparing students for this concert. This performance marked not only the culmination of every student’s hard work, but also the beginning of many musical journeys ahead. Daniel X, Year 7
Students Lead the Fight Against Vaping
McKinnon Secondary College is featured in the July edition of Glen Eira News for its involvement in the Fresh Take Initiative, a youth-led campaign tackling vaping. As part of a council-run program, students attended a creative workshop in May to plan, design and launch an anti-vaping campaign with support from professional designers. Year 11 student Anthe shares her reflection on the experience in the article. This workshop was the first of two, where students researched, developed and planned ideas for a creative project that aims to prevent vaping in young people. The students worked with creative mentors to learn about the facts and realities of vaping and then were guided through the creative process of designing a product. These products will be completed in the second workshop in August and will aim to not only prevent vaping in young people but also highlight the various supports in place for those trying to quit. Ms Anna BourkeAssistant Learning Area Manager for the Visual Arts Here’s a reflection of the day from one of our Year 12 Art Captains, Radhe: Attending the Fresh Take Design Project, I wasn't really expecting to feel moved whilst walking into Glen Eira Town Hall, but boy was I wrong. What I'd thought to be a simple youth focused design event, had progressively turned into something much much more: a showcase of raw talent, honest storytelling, and the kind of community connection we don’t often stop to notice nowadays. Hosting a variety of schools, McKinnon Secondary College was one which were selected to attend, with a variety of Art, Visual Communication Design, and Health students. In attending the expo, we hoped to plan for a design idea that will promote good health and wellbeing in the VicHealth-funded project. The project ultimately encouraged students to develop and deliver creative campaigns to raise awareness and come up with solutions to educate and support their peers to reject vaping. One moment that stuck with me was an anecdote about one of the host’s battles with rejecting vaping, and the struggles that it brought upon their life. This story of resilience allowed me and other students to recognise and de-stigmatise the battle of addiction and help promote wellbeing and healthy recovery for struggling individuals. Ultimately, the best part about the design expo was the feeling that every single voice within the room was welcome and heard. It wasn’t about perfection. It was about expression. I personally really appreciated the experience. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, students from neighbouring schools and creative designers, all convening to address integral issues which impact us young people as a whole was extremely fulfilling. From Tie-Dying T-Shirts and munching on pizza and muffins, to designing and illustrating ideas for our design campaigns, the experience was able to support me greatly in understanding the creative design process. The mentorship and the opportunities that this initiative by The City of Glen Eira and The City of Stonnington have opened up for students, have helped liberate not only me, but other students in progressing in their design journey, unveiling and uplifting the newest generation of Australia’s designers. This opportunity wasn’t just a design initiative for youth, it’s a reminder that young people within contemporary Australia still have something to say. And more importantly, that we’re finally being given the space to say it. Radhe, Year 12Senior Media Capta
Myth and Fable Reenactments
During the final week of the term, we did something different in Year 9 English. We split into groups, and we were given a myth or fable that we had to act out to the class. Every group would act and at the end the class would decide which performance was the best and that group then performed in front of four Year 9 English classes. My group got the Greek fable, The Honest Woodcutter. In the fable, a woodcutter accidentally throws his axe into a river. The god Mercury then appears and pulls a gold and silver axe out of the river. The woodcutter turns down both as they weren’t his. Impressed by the man’s honesty, the god Mercury rewards him with all three axes. As a group, we had to work together to write a script and assign roles. We also had to be creative in turning the fable into a play, making it interesting and engaging while still getting the story and message across. Overall, it was fun and a nice way to end the term. Joshua, Year 9 Student
Sport News
SMR CROSS COUNTRY On Wednesday 25 June, 40 McKinnon students represented McKinnon at Ballam Park as part of the SMR Cross Country event. These students braved cold, wet and windy conditions to compete. There were some exceptional performances on the day, and we are pleased to announce the following students who have qualified for the State Finals: Students Qualified for State FinalsLayn S (11th) in 17-20 GirlsLuka S (10th) in 17-20 BoysOlin B (5th) in 16 GirlsKiara M (9th) in 15 GirlsSophie A (2nd) in 14 GirlsThe 14 Boys Team of Zavier M (2nd), Luca S (12th), Matvey R (9th) and Aiden K (34th)Magdalena U (10th) in 12-13 GirlsFlynn W (5th) in 12-13 BoysGood Luck to these students who will be running against the best runners in the state on Thursday 24 July at Yarra Valley Racing Track. Alice Breidahl Cross Country Coordinator
