At the heart of our community, courage shines brightly through the talent and dedication of our students.

This year’s annual Art, Design & Technology Show was a testament to the incredible creativity and hard work of our young artists. From evocative paintings to skilled use of textiles and woodwork and intricate ceramic sculptures, each piece reflected the unique vision and determination of its creator. Our students in Primary, Secondary and at the Joshua Centre embraced the spirit of artistic expression, and their courage to share their work with the world is commendable.

Equally inspiring were the performances in the Primary Production. Our young performers brought stories to life with vibrant energy and enthusiasm. Their willingness to step onto the stage and showcase their talents is a remarkable display of bravery and confidence. The dedication they have shown in rehearsing and perfecting their performances has not gone unnoticed. Each student, whether in a leading role or as part of the ensemble, contributed to a production that was nothing short of spectacular.

As we celebrate these achievements, we also extend our heartfelt support to our Year 12 students who are currently undertaking their exams. This period is undoubtedly a challenging one, requiring immense fortitude and perseverance. We stand with them, offering our prayers and encouragement. The strength they exhibit in facing these academic milestones will serve them well in their future endeavours.

We each have talents, but it takes courage not to be afraid and hide our gifts. Rather, let us encourage one another to put our talents to work, to bring our gifts to fruition; not for our own glory, but to the glory of God – Matt. 25:14-30

Let us take a moment to acknowledge the courage displayed by all our students – those who dared to create, to perform, and to persevere.

Our school community is built on the foundation of Christian values, and it is our mission to cultivate an environment where faith and learning go hand in hand. We are blessed to witness the growth and development of our students, not only as performers, artists and scholars but as individuals who we hope will walk in the light of Christ.

Mr Luke Swain - Head of Campus

A busy start to term four in the Birdrock Beach classroom. We had an incursion about being safe around dogs, learning how to approach a dog and when not to touch dogs.
The Kids Roar organisation also presented to our children on the importance of being body aware and feeling body safe and asserting ourselves if we ever felt unsafe. This important information assists children in learning to speak up if they ever were in a situation where they felt unsafe.

The children have also been learning about metamorphosis as we released a butterfly from its chrysalis we had been watching as it emerged. This scientific learning supports our conceptual understandings about changes as we get ready to move onto Primary school. We always love our visits from Mr Swain.

On the 30th of October, our primary students took to the stage for the first ever primary production, 'A Night at the Movies'. This musical extravaganza featured performances from every year level, with each group showcasing their unique talents. The event began with a captivating opening number that included all students, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.

Throughout the night, each year level delivered their own performance, delighting the audience with their enthusiasm and creativity. The grand finale brought all the students together once again, ending the show on a high note. Special mention goes to our students who took on acting roles, they did a fantastic job, adding an extra layer of excitement to the production.

This event has set a new benchmark for what our school can achieve, and we are already looking forward to hosting next year's primary production in the new chapel. The success of 'A Night at the Movies' would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our staff and students. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to our families for their unwavering support and for making this event so special by coming to cheer on our students.

Well done to everyone involved!

From Tuesday, 29 October to Thursday, 31 October, our school organised an incredible Art, Design, and Technology Show that featured the outstanding work of our students from Kinder, Primary School, Secondary School, and the Joshua Centre. This event was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the creativity and talent of our students across all age groups. Each piece reflected the hard work, dedication, and passion of our students, and it was truly inspiring to see their creativity come to life.

The Art, Design, and Technology Show was not just an exhibition but a celebration of our students' achievements. It provided a platform for them to share their work with the wider school community and receive well-deserved recognition for their efforts. The event also fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment among the students, encouraging them to continue exploring their creative talents.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students, teachers, and staff who contributed to making this event a success. Your hard work and dedication are truly appreciated. We are already looking forward to next year's show and can't wait to see what our talented students will create next!

A selection of our talented concert band and string students spent Monday 14th jamming with the Concert Band students a Mount Eliza North Primary School. The workshop is a long standing tradition between MENPS and Flinders that provides beginner to intermediate concert band students the opportunity to share their passion for music.

The workshop involved students learning arrangements of "Thriller" by Michael Jackson, and "We Will Rock You" cover by FIVE. The arrangements written by Flinders flute teacher, Tonino Berghella, and the Head of Performing Arts, Adam Carson, were arranged specifically for the student playing level, and instrumentation layout. This helps foster the musical learning abilities and needs of each individual student.

The staff worked closely with the students in both sectional and full ensemble rehearsals. This allows the students to benefit the most from the experience and provides them with a range of ensemble and technical skills.

The day ended with an energetic and entertaining performance to all the classes of MENPS. Students in the audience joined in with singing along to memorable lyrics and enjoyed an encore of "Thriller".

The Music Department would like to thank Tonino Berghella and Kate Makrikostas for their musical direction and assisstance with the workshop. We'd also like to thank Mel Garbers from MENPS for her continued support and dedication of music education.

We’re thrilled to share that Mrs. Batey, a beloved teacher at the Joshua Centre, and her family welcomed a beautiful new addition last week—a baby girl named Polly! Both Mrs. Batey and Polly are healthy and doing well, and we couldn't be happier for them. Please join us in congratulating the Batey family on their wonderful news. We look forward to meeting little Polly and wish the family all the love and blessings during this precious time.

This term, seven teams are competing in the SIS Weekly Sport competition. Thank you to all students for representing the college with such positive sportsmanship and teamwork. Win or lose, we are proud of your efforts.

Our Swim Squad Program runs annually in Terms 1 and 4 coached by elite swimmers. The program runs on Friday mornings before school at the Pines Forest Aquatic Centre. The purpose of the Flinders Swim Squad is to improve each student's competitive swimming performance at the Term 1 House Swimming Carnival in 2024 and to adequately prepare students for racing. Please note that this optional opportunity is not a learn to swim program, as students are expected to be able to swim competently for multiple laps of a 50m pool. The sessions will focus on preparing students for future competitions. There is a cost of $70 for the sessions that is subsidised by the College. This squad will begin Friday 1st November, and will continue for 6 weeks.

To register, please contact Natalie Chatfield Natalie.chatfield@flinders.vic.edu.au
or Emily Fellows emily.fellows@flinders.vic.edu.au

On Thursday 31st October, a selection of Tyabb students represented the college at the SIS Golf Championships at the Mt Martha Golf Course.

Head down to Bunnings - Frankston to buy a sausage and support our teams who are heading to the Australian School Basketball Championships in Queensland in early December.

On Friday the 11th of October our two Flinders chaplains together with each campus' ministry captains woke up at a very early hour (5am) to drive together to the annual Prayer Breakfast held in the heart of the city.

We were able to mingle with people from organisations and ministries across the city and state, spend time in prayer together led by representatives, for young people, those in need, world events and people struggling in areas of their life.

We had the privilege of hearing the Voice winner Tarryn Stokes sing, leading us in songs to unite us and to reflect.

The highlight was the ministry captains from Tyabb and Carrum Downs getting to know each other better and having an excellent cooked breakfast.

Anyone is able to attend so if you're interested for 2025, follow this link next year.

https://www.melbourneprayerbreakfast.com/

The recent alumni event was a heartwarming celebration that brought together graduates from the classes of 2023, 2019, and 2014. The atmosphere was filled with joy and nostalgia as old friends reunited and new connections were made. The event was a testament to the enduring bond shared by our alumni. We look forward to many more of these wonderful events.

2024

Term 4

• Mid Term Break - Monday 4 November
• Student Free Day - Friday 22 November
• Grade 6 Graduation - Friday 29 November
• Secondary Presentation Night - Thursday 5 December
• Primary Presentation Night - Friday 6 December
• Last Day of Term 4 - Friday 6 December

2025

Term 1

• Year 7 and 12 Commence - Thursday 30 January
• 3YO and 4YO Kinder Orientation Day - Thursday 30 January
• Prep to Grade 6, Year 8 to Year 11 Commence
• Last Day of Term 1 - Friday 4 April

Term 2

• Term 2 Commences - Wednesday 23 April
• Student Free Day - Friday 27 June
• Last Day of Term 2 - Friday 4 July

Letter from Paul Mercurio

The State Government will deliver a new social media education program to keep kids safe online, as we open consultation on new national laws around age limits.

Parents have told us they’re worried about their kids using social media, but they feel powerless to push back against the tech giants.

That’s why the Government will work with the Commonwealth to introduce age limits, so kids aren’t using social media before they’re ready.

An online survey which opened earlier this week gives parents, teachers, young people and the general public the opportunity to share their experiences and concerns about social media use.

Groups can also participate through self-guided discussions, using an online guide.

But age limits are only part of the equation.

Social media is a reality of modern life, and we need to make sure young people have the tools to navigate it safely.

Findings from this consultation process will shape a new social media safety program. Safe Socials will be delivered in schools as a resource for students, teachers and families about how to navigate social media.

The survey engage.vic.gov.au/safesocials is open until the 1st of November 2024.

In today's world, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has infiltrated almost every aspect of our lives, including relationships. The rise of AI-powered romantic and companion bots is particularly popular among young people, offering a new frontier in human interaction. Initially emerging in the gaming world, AI companionship has evolved into mainstream culture, with apps providing personalised experiences that range from platonic friendships to romantic encounters. These apps allow users to create and interact with virtual partners, raising significant privacy and ethical concerns, particularly for younger generations.

Research highlights potential risks associated with AI companions, including the normalisation of inappropriate conversations and the possibility of grooming. Criminologists warn that children as young as 12 are accessing dating apps, often bypassing age restrictions, exposing them to sexual content and predatory behaviour. These interactions can blur the boundaries between real and virtual relationships, creating confusion and potential psychological harm.

Adolescents, in particular, may turn to virtual partners for validation, risking unhealthy emotional attachments that can affect their real-life relationships. These relationships often lack the mutual respect and effort required in real-world connections, which are crucial for personal growth.

As AI technology continues to shape social dynamics, it's important for us all to stay informed and involved. AI has the potential to enrich educational experiences and foster creativity, but it also poses challenges related to privacy, mental health, and misinformation. By maintaining an open dialogue and promoting a balanced approach, we can help young people navigate this new digital landscape, allowing them to benefit from AI's advancements while protecting them from its potential risks.

Read more HERE