Vision Statement
McKinnon Secondary College lives by its motto ‘Wisdom and Service’.
We foster a love of learning and respect for diversity. We strive to nurture empathetic, creative and confident young people who are connected to our community and Indigenous heritage. We want our students to embrace opportunities for continuous improvement and accept the challenges of a complex and globalised world.
Vision and Values
McKinnon Secondary College fosters a life-long love of learning. We celebrate Australia's diversity and indigenous heritage. We nurture excellence and empathy in our students as global citizens, ready to participate and be leaders in a complex world. Our students are confident and creative individuals with a strong sense of community and social responsibility. For more information on Vision and Values click here. OUR VALUES
McK Respect Community Walk Friday 12th September
Join us next week for our annual McK Respect Community Walk as we walk 16 laps, bringing our community together to take a stand against gender-based violence and to promote kindness, equality, and respect. This event supports the Respectful Relationships initiative, which aims to create a culture of respect and safety for everyone. Why 16 laps? The walk symbolises the 16 Days of Activism – a global campaign to end gender-based violence. 🔸Students and staff can register via the link on Compass.
Winter Concert 2025
Congratulations to everyone involved in the Annual Winter Concert—a remarkable event that highlighted the impressive scale, spirit, and excellence of music education in our community. The concert featured over 620 student performers from all year levels, coming together in a dazzling array of ensembles that truly reflected the diversity and vibrancy of the program. The evening’s program showcased months of hard work, creativity, and teamwork, with performances spanning classical, contemporary, and multicultural offerings. Families, staff, and friends filled the hall, sharing in the pride and inspiration generated by each student’s courage and commitment on stage. Special recognition goes to the dedicated music faculty—especially Dmitry Serebrianik with the support of Clare Bugeja, and Zoe Bartholomeusz — whose leadership and tireless efforts were instrumental in bringing this event to life. Behind the scenes, the concert’s seamless flow was orchestrated by the accomplished stage crew, expertly managed by Ellie Adler, Lucy Angell and Paschal Lee. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and poise under pressure ensured that every transition ran smoothly, contributing to the magical atmosphere experienced by all. This year's concert also celebrated the achievement and resilience of our senior students, many of whom began their musical journeys during the uncertainty of Covid. Their strength and adaptability were evident as they joined their peers in creating a memorable night for all. Well done to everyone involved.
Multilingual Videos Now Available on SchoolTV
Because wellbeing shouldn’t get lost in translation, SchoolTV has introduced a powerful new feature — multilingual videos. Until now, families could access written content in more than 60 languages. Now, expert-led videos are also available in Chinese, Hindi and Arabic, with more languages to be added next year. This new feature ensures every family can access trusted, practical guidance in a way that feels familiar, inclusive, and easy to understand. Explore this feature for yourself by clicking the link below to view SchoolTV content in your preferred language. http://mckinnonsc.vic.schooltv.me/stv-multilingual-feature
NGV: French Impressionism Exhibition
Visible brush strokes, vivid use of colours and lack of detail are the key aspects of French Impressionism; things that the Year 11 and 12 French students had the wonderful opportunity to learn about when we attended the NGV on the 27th of August. This excursion meticulously delved into the world of French culture and art, proving to be an inspiring and enriching experience. The exhibition covered the era of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism in French art, allowing us to learn about the different artists that pushed the boundaries of what was considered ‘art’ in the late nineteenth-century. We got to walk through carefully constructed thematic galleries, discovering different artists and their inspiration and muses. Pieces by Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, Manet and Degas were beautifully arranged as we marvelled over the talent exhibited in the 19th and 20th century works. The gallery was designed after the extravagant houses of American collectors, where the pieces were once on display, as well as spaces enjoyed by the artists themselves. This created an experience like no other; one which we are all glad to have had the chance to witness. Everyone who participated walked away from the exhibition with a broadened appreciation for art and French culture, and we’re all extremely grateful to Monsieur Chamontin for arranging this excursion. Amelie and Emma, Year 12
We Are Hiring!
Opportunities are now available to join McKinnon Secondary College, a premier school with an outstanding team and culture. Apply via School Jobs Vic (formerly Recruitment Online) using the Job ID. English Teacher (Years 7-10)Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491396, 1491397 and 1491366Apply by: 14/09/2025 General Maths (10-12) / Maths Teacher (7-10)Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491640Apply by: 15/09/2025 Maths Teacher (Years 7-12)Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491404Apply by: 14/09/2025 Maths / IT Teacher (Years 7-12)Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491423Apply by: 14/09/2025 Maths (Years 7-12) / Science Teacher (Years 7-10) Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491428 and 1491429 Apply by: 14/09/2025 Physics (Years 7-12) / Science (Years 7-10) TeacherFull-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 1491417Apply by: 14/09/2025 Biology (Years 10-12) / Science Teacher (Years 7-10) Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491408 and 1491409 Apply by: 14/09/2025 English / Geography Teacher (Years 7-12)Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491348Apply by: 14/09/2025 Food Technology Teacher (Years 7-10) Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491345 and 1491340Apply by: 14/09/2025 EAL Teacher (Years 7-12)Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491325 Apply by: 14/09/2025 Business Management / Legal Studies Teacher Full-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491324 Apply by: 14/09/2025 Politics (Years 10-12) TeacherFull-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491318Apply by: 14/09/2025 Physical Education (Years 7-10) TeacherFull-time | Ongoing PositionStart date: 27/1/2026Job ID: 1491290, 1491291 and 1491292 Apply by: 14/09/2025 Enquiries can be directed to Marie Landini, Personnel Manager via lm@mckinnonsc.vic.edu.au or on 8520 9057.
Berthe Mouchette Competition
The start of Term 3 brought about the Berthe Mouchette Competition earlier this week, which French students across all year levels undertook, and in particular the senior French students undertook for the last time in their schooling lives. The Competition consisted of two components: a written section and an oral section. On Tuesday 29 July, we undertook the oral section. From reciting a poem in the junior school, to a general conversation about family, hobbies, school life and all things French, as well as a discussion on the push towards Independence in New Caledonia, the exam-like structure was certainly a step up. Anxiously awaiting our designated time slot, image and name sheet in hand, it could only be a beneficial experience that holds doubtless skills in listening and speaking in French, as well as gaining a greater understanding of French culture and its uniqueness. Each assessor brought a warmth and enthusiasm to the competition, and it took no time to settle into its rhythm. We are all grateful for their time and assistance in helping us improve our language skills. The Berthe Mouchette Competition that McKinnon has participated in for the entirety of our French schooling has been an invaluable experience that has undoubtedly broadened our knowledge of French culture and sharpened our language skills - ready for the Year 12 exam in mid-October this year. Merci beaucoup to Monsieur Chamontin for his undivided support, encouragement and plenty of fun times all throughout our journey in Berthe Mouchette. Alex Rowe HansenYear 12 Student
Mary Poppins
For more than a year, countless students and staff members have been working tirelessly to create the most practically perfect performance of Mary Poppins The Musical. With a cast of over 60 students, ranging from Year 7s all the way to Year 12s, and four dedicated teachers who took on directorial roles, we had seven months to rehearse and prepare everything. Sets had to be painted, props had to be collected, costumes had to be resourced and fitted, and songs and dances had to be learned. Everyone had huge responsibilities, but what made this process so incredible was the community we had created together. Everyone was always helping each other out and looking out for one another. Even on days when everyone was tired and rehearsal was the last thing on our minds; we found a way to lift each other and continue working harder than ever. Quickly, we became a huge family, a family of kind and supportive people. This show brought out the best in us, not only with our talents of singing, acting and dancing but also with our ability to express love in every step of the journey. I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to finish my schooling year with this amazing family by my side. Even with the busyness of Year 12, stepping into the theatre space and seeing my cast mates felt like a moment of tranquillity, and simply smiling was inevitable. Thank you to everyone who was involved: The MAV team, the backstage crew, the costume crew, the principal team for their support and everyone else behind the scenes. Finally, the biggest thank you to four incredible teachers who have brought to life a masterpiece of a performance, without whom the theatre world at McKinnon would not thrive to this extent. Thank you, Ms Adler, Ms Angell, Mr Baldwin and Ms Barber. You are the true talent of this show. Hope you all enjoyed watching this supercalifragilisticexpialidocious performance of Mary Poppins! MilanaYear 12 Student
Music News
RECOGNITION OF SERVICE 2025 AWARDS CEREMONYOn Wednesday 30 July the McKinnon Secondary College Senior String Quartet traveled to the Dingley Hotel to provide music for the participants of the Recognition of Service 2025 Awards Ceremony as guests arrived. They enjoyed some light refreshments while treated to live string music. The students played a selection of pieces; Underground Tango, Sweet Child of Mine, The Masterplan, Cook Strait Crossing, Colour of the Wind, and Apocalyptica. The students performed their first gig with pride and professionalism, showcasing our school at its best. 2025 CLAREMONT TERRACEOn Wednesday morning of 30 July, the Units 3 and 4 VCE Music students, accompanied by Mrs Bugeja and Mrs Mead, walked to Claremont Terrace to perform for the residents. There was a large crowd who enjoyed singing along to a variety of pieces ranging from Broadway to the Classical Period. There was also a variety of instruments; vocals, saxophone, violin and the Senior String Quartet. The students showed great self-sufficiency as they set themselves up with the necessary equipment and performed with confidence and enjoyment. We hope to visit Claremont Terrace every year with both VCE Year 11 and 12 students to build relationships and give back to the community and to create more performing opportunities for the students. VSMF SENIOR STRINGSOn Monday night the Senior String Ensemble traveled by bus to the Hawthorn Arts Centre to participate in the Victorian Schools Music Festival. They performed Someday by Perry Holbrook with a beautiful violin solo played by Manoli Adamakis and The Golden Gateway by Brian Balmages. After their performance the chief adjudicator workshopped the ensemble for 30 minutes. She encouraged them to think about different concepts to enable them to further develop their ensemble skills. While Mrs Mead went off for a conducting lesson to help hone her skills, the ensemble sat and watched the following school perform. The Senior Strings received a Bronze award and we thank all the students for putting in hard work and staying up late! Georgina MeadInstrumental Music Teacher
Languages News
SPANISH EDUCATION CHANCELLOR VISIT On Thursday 24 July, we had the opportunity to get a visit from the Spanish Education Chancellor, Rosa Maria Prieto y Andres Gomez, Technical Assessor. They came to visit the school and to talk to students about the culture and the benefits of learning Spanish. Students got a great understanding of the Camino the Santiago, one of the most famous pilgrimages in the world. Students explored its origins, historical facts and its importance in today's tourism world. Ana GomezSpanish TeacherYEAR 8 FRENCH CLASS EXPOS At the end of the semester, some of our Year 8 French classes participated in classroom expos on topics associated with the cultures of the French-speaking world. There was some wonderful work, and everyone learned something new and interesting. There was information about a range of topics, from snails, through desserts, onto the Eiffel Tower, and including a presentation about Eurovision contributions from a range of French-speaking countries. Jennifer LyndLanguages Learning Area ManagerKUMMARGEE EDUCATION PERFECT CHALLENGE During the last two weeks of term, our Year 8 language students were busy building up Kummargee points in their own Education Perfect challenge. This was limited to the three languages taught at McKinnon - French, German and Spanish. The winning class is 8D. Second place goes to 8A, and third to 8E. The following students earned certificates and were placed as listed: Gold - Meredith (1st) & Evelyn (2nd)Silver - Davide (3rd)Bronze - Eloise (4th), Shahar (5th) & Charlie (6th) Jennifer LyndLanguages Learning Area Manager
French Model UN
On Friday 25 July, seven of our Year 12 students proudly represented our school at the French Model United Nations event, held at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership in Melbourne. This prestigious event, conducted entirely in French, brought together students from across Victoria to roleplay as delegates from various countries, tackling pressing global issues in a simulated UN setting. This year’s theme, Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development: Harnessing the Benefits – Safeguarding Human Rights, sparked dynamic debate and thoughtful discussion among participants. Our students took on the challenge with enthusiasm and flair, representing three countries: South Korea, the USA and Ireland. They spent the day negotiating, presenting speeches, and drafting resolutions - all while speaking French from start to finish! It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to put their language skills to the test in a real-world context and gain insight into international diplomacy. They had an absolute blast embracing their roles as global delegates and left the event inspired and proud of their achievements. Bravo to our talented linguists for their impressive efforts and commitment! Cedric ChamontinFrench Teacher
