2022 Handbook Junior School - Methodist Ladies' College
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2022 Handbook Junior School
Contents
Welcome to Junior School_______________________________________________________ 4
Student Wellbeing____________________________________________________________________ 24
Structure of MLC_____________________________________________________________________ 6
Counselling Intercultral understanding at MLC________________ 25
School Management Team________________________________________________ 6
Peer relations_____________________________________________________________________ 26
Junior School class times__________________________________________________ 6
Notebook, iPads and technology_____________________________________________ 28
MLC Vision, Mission, Values & Motto______________________________________ 7
Care of computers_____________________________________________________________ 28
Term Dates_______________________________________________________________________________ 8
Mobile Phones___________________________________________________________________ 28
General information_________________________________________________________________ 10
Use of computers______________________________________________________________ 28
Absence / illness _______________________________________________________________ 10
Co-curricular activities ___________________________________________________________ 30
Assembly___________________________________________________________________________ 11
Drama Club________________________________________________________________________ 30
Before and after school care and vacation care programs _ 11
Languages Club_________________________________________________________________ 30
Books, stationery and other supplies________________________________ 12
Speech and Drama Program_____________________________________________ 30
Chapel _______________________________________________________________________________ 12
Sport__________________________________________________________________________________ 30
Communications________________________________________________________________ 12
Uniform____________________________________________________________________________________ 32
Driving and parking _
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General Uniform Guidelines_______________________________________________ 32
Email use____________________________________________________________________________ 13
MLC uniform shop_____________________________________________________________ 32
Excursion rules__________________________________________________________________ 14
Official Occasions/Excursions___________________________________________ 32
Houses_______________________________________________________________________________ 14
Physical Education Classes_______________________________________________ 32
Lost property_____________________________________________________________________ 14
Physical Education and Sports Uniform Policy Prep – Year 6_ 34
Reports and parent teacher and student conferences (PTSC) 14
Prep – Year 2 Students __
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Service learning ________________________________________________________________ 14
Riding Bicycles to School__________________________________________________ 34
Star Café____________________________________________________________________________ 14
Summer Academic Uniform______________________________________________ 34
College map_____________________________________________________________________________ 17
Winter Academic Uniform_________________________________________________ 34
Learning at MLC_______________________________________________________________________ 18
Parents’ Association________________________________________________________________ 35
A Diversity of Achievement_______________________________________________ 18
Curiosity_____________________________________________________________________________ 18
Creativity____________________________________________________________________________ 18
Critical Thinking_________________________________________________________________ 18
Relationships_____________________________________________________________________ 18
Curriculum_______________________________________________________________________________ 20
Art______________________________________________________________________________________ 20
Education outdoors program_____________________________________________ 21
Homework__________________________________________________________________________ 21
Languages__________________________________________________________________________ 21
Learning support_______________________________________________________________ 21
Library________________________________________________________________________________ 21
Music__________________________________________________________________________________ 22
Physical Education_____________________________________________________________ 22
Cover image: Poppy and Aara celebrate Deaf Awareness Week by wearing
their butterfly pins.
Junior School Handbook 2022
Heidi, Molly and Sienna play in the Junior
School’s dedicated Years 3-6 playground.
3
Welcome to Junior School
As the Head of MLC’s Junior School, I am delighted to
welcome you to this wonderful community.
I am sure your daughter will experience a very exciting
year with the stimulating and challenging learning activities,
broad curriculum and extensive co-curricular offering. All this
while supported by our caring and dedicated teaching and
support staff.
This handbook provides you with valuable information regarding
Junior School procedures and is a handy reference to assist you
and your daughter throughout the year. It provides important
information which is relevant to your daughter’s class and year
level. By keeping this document in a safe and easily accessible
place you will be able to plan ahead.
Providing a holistic education requires a strong partnership
between parents and teachers, as well as students. By working
together, we can ensure that your daughter is well supported as
she transitions into the new school year.
Ms Louise Peyton with students in our Junior Additional information regarding the curriculum will be
School Library presented early in the year at our information nights.
I would ask you to encourage your daughter to get involved,
to try new things and meet new people and most of all enjoy
school. I hope that 2022 is a great year for your daughter
at MLC’s Junior School, and I look forward to meeting your
daughter and supporting her through her new learning journey.
Ms Louise Peyton
Head of Junior School
Junior School Handbook 2022
Alice and Florence enjoy
playing together in Junior
School’s dedicated Prep to
Year 2 playground.
5
Structure of MLC
School Management Team Junior School class times
Principal
Ms Diana Vernon
School Commences 8.25 am
Senior Vice Principal
Ms Margaret Horton
Fruit Break 9.45 am
Vice Principal
Mr Mark Gray
Morning 11.05am- 11.25 am
Head of Senior School
Dr Jennifer Bailey Smith Years 11 to 12
Lunch 12.45 on – 1.45 pm
Deputy Head of Senior School
Ms Rebecca Akse Years 11 to 12
School Dismissal P-2 3.10 pm
Head of Middle School
Mrs Melissa Lange Years 9 to 10
School Dismissal Y3-6 3.15 pm
Deputy Head of Middle School
Ms Belinda Buchanan Years 9 to 10 Students eat their lunch under teacher supervision
Head of Junior Secondary School 12.45 pm – 1 pm.
Ms Cathie Ireland Years 7 to 8 A security card is issued to all families of students in Prep
Deputy Head of Junior Secondary School – Year 2. This card is to be used to access the Prep – Year 2
Mrs Penny Church Years 7 to 8 Building.
Head of Junior School The Prep – Year 2 classrooms are open from 8.15 am – 8.25 am
Ms Louise Peyton K to Year 6 for drop-off and from 3.10 pm for collection of students.
Deputy Head of Junior School Please note that students arriving at school before 8 am will be
Mrs Deb Krumples K to Year 6 directed to out of school hours program as staff supervision
begins at 8 am.
Similarly, students not collected by 3.40 pm will be taken to the
The College is divided into four schools, enabling all students out of school hours program.
to identify with their own peer group, whilst also remaining an
integral part of the wider school community. Each of the four
schools has its own buildings, assemblies, wellbeing program
and staff who are identified with a particular school.
The Head of School and the Executive (Curriculum
Coordinators and Specialist Coordinators) are responsible
for the implementation of learning and wellbeing programs
in Junior School.
Junior School
Office Hours 7.45 am – 3.45 pm
T: +61 3 9274 8530
E: juniorschool@mlc.vic.edu.au
24-hour attendance line
T: 9274 6374
Students in Krome House cheer on their peers at the annual House
Cross Country day.
Junior School Handbook 2022
MLC Vision, Mission, Values & Motto
MLC’s Vision and Mission MLC’s Founding Motto
“An MLC education inspires our students to be citizens the Deo Domuique
world needs”
Our vision and mission are underpinned by our founding motto,
MLC students develop the skills, values and confidence to Deo Domuique, which has served MLC well for 140 years. It
embrace the challenges and opportunities at school and provides the link between our place today and the progress
beyond, and contribute meaningfully to society. since our founding.
The motto has a broader interpretation than its literal
“MLC develops and nurtures a community of independent,
translation. ‘For God’ meaning to be true to one’s faith and
resilient, ambitious learners, by providing an unmatched
principles or beliefs, whatever they might be; and ‘For Home’
breadth of learning and wellbeing experiences and
to reinforce the MLC commitment to being of service to our
environments.”
immediate and wider communities of family, friends, nations
MLC’s unmatched breadth of learning and wellbeing and the world. It demonstrates that since the very early days
experiences and environments aim to inspire you to find and of the College, we have embraced a more vocational emphasis
nurture your individual interests and talents, forge your path, on acquiring knowledge - not education for its own sake but
and realise your full potential. service to others.
Our commitment to provide excellence and innovation in
education, combined with our scale, diversity and resources,
offers enriched learning opportunities. This supports you to
become independent, resilient and ambitious learners, through
the opportunity to explore everything that interests, challenges
and motivates you.
MLC’s Values
Our values are the articulation of what we stand for and aspire
to, guiding the culture we foster and the behaviours we expect
of everyone within our community.
Engage with Respect
Aspire with Responsibility
Act with Compassion
Prep - 2 gathers for National Simultaneous Story Time with Ms Peyton
Explore with Courage
and Auslan Interpreter, Mrs De Goldi
Each value is an action-oriented statement. It is not enough to
say that respect, responsibility, compassion and courage are
important to us. We need to demonstrate our commitment to
them through all of our interactions and communications.
7
Term dates 2022
Term 1
Monday 03 January New Year's Day public holiday
Tuesday 04 January College Re-opens for 2022
Tuesday 04 January MLC Kindle Staff Return
Wednesday 05 January MLC Kindle Re-Opens – Students Return
Monday 24 January New Staff Orientation
Tuesday 25 January New Staff Orientation
Wednesday 26 January Australia Day
Thursday 27 January Staff Day
Friday 28 January Staff Day
Monday 31 January Staff Day
Monday 31 January Boarders Return, Tiddeman House Re-opens (12:00 PM - 9:30 PM)
Tuesday 01 February Term 1 Commences - Students Return
Monday 14 March Labour Day
Friday 08 April Term 1 Concludes, Tiddeman House Closes (5:00 PM)
Friday 15 April Good Friday
Sunday 17 April Easter Sunday
Monday 18 April Easter Monday
Term 2
Monday 25 April ANZAC Day
Tuesday 26 April Boarders Return, Tiddeman House Reopens (12:00 PM - 9:30 PM)
Tuesday 26 April Staff Day
Wednesday 27 April Term 2 Commences - Students Return
Wednesday 08 June Marking and Report Writing Day (Y7-12 student free)
Monday 13 June Queens Birthday
Friday 24 June Term 2 Concludes, Tiddeman House Closes (5:00 PM)
Junior School Handbook 2022
Term 3
Friday 08 July New Staff Orientation
Monday 11 July Staff Day
Monday 11 July Boarders Return, Tiddeman House Reopens (12:00 PM - 9:30 PM)
Tuesday 12 July Term 3 Commences - Students Return
Friday 09 September Term 3 Concludes, Tiddeman House Closes (5:00 PM)
TBC (subject to AFL schedule) AFL Grand Final Eve public holiday
Term 4
Sunday 02 October Boarders Return, Tiddeman House Reopens (12:00 PM - 9:30 PM)
Monday 03 October Term 4 Commences - Staff and Students Return
Monday 31 October Mid Term Break (student free)
Tuesday 01 November Melbourne Cup Day
Friday 25 November Marking and Report Writing Day (Y7-12 student free)
Friday 02 December Term 4 Concludes for Prep - Year 11 Students
Friday 02 December Tiddeman House Closes (12:00 NOON)
Friday 09 December Teaching Staff Finish, Term 4 Concludes
Thursday 22 December MLC Kindle Students Finish
Friday 23 December MLC Kindle Staff Finish; MLC Kindle Closes for 2022
Friday 23 December College Closes for 2022
Sunday 25 December Christmas Day
Monday 26 December Boxing Day
Tuesday 27 December Christmas Day Observance
9
General Absence / illness
If students are unwell and unable to attend school, parents are
information
asked to notify the Junior School Office on +61 3 9274 6374 or
email juniorschool@mlc.vic.edu.au. If your daughter becomes ill
during the day, you will be contacted and asked to collect her as
soon as possible.
It is not appropriate for students to come to school if they are
unwell.
In the event of an accident or sudden illness, the College Nurse
in the Health Centre will immediately attend to the student.
If any student is required to take medication on a regular
basis, the medication and instructions need to be given to
the classroom teacher, who will ensure students take their
medication at the appropriate time. Medication is not to be kept
in school bags or in classrooms.
New students are required to produce an immunisation
certificate from The Australian Childhood Immunisation
Register (ACIR).
For assistance on how you can obtain school entry
immunisation certificates, please contact:
T: 1800 653 809
W: health.vic.gov.au/immunisation
Junior School Handbook 2022Aisha is learning how to
model a peacock in her
Year 1 ceramics class
Assembly The sessions are supervised by experienced childcare staff.
The program combines active games with structured and
Each alternate Friday, Junior School students attend an unstructured play, quiet time and a healthy snack. All activities
assembly which is held in the James Tatoulis Auditorium. are safety focused, SunSmart, creative, fun and rewarding for
all children.
Each year level, or class, is allocated a time where they
are given the opportunity and responsibility to organise Students in After School Care who attend co-curricular
and present an assembly. House Meetings are held each activities will be accompanied by an OSHC staff member to and
fortnight following assembly. from the activities.
Vacation care is delivered during the school holiday breaks
and runs from 7 am – 6.30 pm on the MLC school grounds
(excluding public holidays). Students from MLC and
Before and after school care neighbouring schools are eligible for enrolment in the MLC
and vacation care programs Vacation Care program. To register, visit www.teamkids.com.au
Through an external provider, TeamKids, MLC offers an out
of school hours care program. Before and After School Care
operates out of the Junior School Hall on all school days.
Before School Care commences at 7am during the school term
and concludes at 8.15am. Students arriving at school before
8am will be placed into Before School Care unless they have a
co-curricular commitment.
After School Care operates from 3.10 pm – 6.30 pm. Prep to
Year 2 students enrolled in After School Care are collected from
the Prep-Year 2 building at 3.10pm. Any students not collected
by 3.40 pm are included in the After School Care program. 11Mrs Thatcher and her Prep class enjoy story time in the Junior School library
Books, stationery and other supplies Communications
The school fees include a set amount for all students’ supplies The Junior School values open and honest communication
and excursions/incursions. between parents/guardians and staff. We endeavour to keep
parents well informed of what is happening in the classroom,
Supplies are therefore purchased by Junior School staff and
Junior School and the College generally. We do this in
distributed to students on the first few days of the school year
several ways.
and throughout the year.
Formal opportunities include Parent-Teacher-Student
The parents’ responsibility is to cover all books and clearly label
Conferences (PTSCs), parent information events and the
all items.
fortnightly College newsletter, MLC Connections. Informal
Most students in the upper years like to have their own opportunities include emails, meetings and phone calls between
personal work-tools such as a pencil case, textas, eraser and staff and parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are encouraged
sharpener, so we encourage them to bring their own. to share any concerns with their daughters’ teachers so that
we can address matters collaboratively. It is not productive to
Prep to Year 2 students have all stationery supplied and do not
discuss them outside of the school.
need to bring pencils, textas, etc.
Excursions are also included under “supplies”, as are special
guests such as dance groups, musicians, scientists or drama
companies. Driving and parking
When driving and parking your vehicle within MLC please be
aware of the following:
Chapel 1. To reduce traffic congestion, parents are encouraged to
drop students off away from the College and allow them to
The Junior School staff and students gather in Fitchett Chapel
walk to school.
at least once per term for teaching and worship.
2. There is a 5 km speed limit within the College car parks
Year 6 students are invited to join the Faith and Worship team
and help prepare for and lead Chapel services. 3. The College parking bays immediately adjacent to Junior
School are time limited to two minutes. Parents are asked
Students of all faith backgrounds are encouraged to share their
to use these spaces if they are intending a brief drop-off or
gifts, their traditions and celebrations.
pick-up only and to avoid stopping for longer periods
There are occasions during the year when the extended
4. A drive-through drop-off only bay is available within the
community is invited to join us in worship – year level Chapel
MLC Chapel Car Park in the mornings up until 8.30 am
Services, Grandparents/Special Friends Mornings and the
and pick up from 3.15 pm is available outside of the Junior
Junior School Christmas Carol Service.
School. Drivers are asked not to leave their vehicle.
Junior School Handbook 20225. For longer term parking, parents on school business are
welcome to use a car space in the MLC Chapel Car Park for
Email use
the duration of their visit. Email can enhance communication between the College and
6. Security staff are on duty at peak traffic times to ensure safe parents. We are pleased to provide you with a streamlined email
and equitable car park and drive through behaviour. Please service through myMLCfamily.net to facilitate communication
observe directions and seek their advice if necessary. with your daughter’s teachers. Although you may already use
email on a regular basis, here are some guidelines which may help
7. A drive-through drop-off/pick-up only arrangement to minimise confusion and make your email use more productive.
operates in the MLC Kindle driveway 8am – 8.30 am and
3.10pm – 3.40pm. Drivers are asked to not leave their Guidelines
vehicle at these times.
Parents and daughters may access the email addresses of
8. Other than the aforementioned times, the MLC Kindle those staff teaching their daughter through myMLCfamily.net.
driveway is to be used only by the MLC Kindle community When you access this site, a pop up box will appear which you
for MLC Kindle purposes. Further, the MLC Kindle Car will need to complete to indicate that you understand the MLC
Park is available for use of MLC Kindle staff and parents/ email protocols.
guardians only.
- Emails should be brief and courteous.
When driving and parking your vehicle in the vicinity of MLC
please be aware of the following: - The first point of contact for parents regarding general
issues is your daughter’s class teacher.
1. School based speed zones are in place in surrounding streets:
- It is more appropriate to make an appointment to talk to
- Lofts Avenue and Fitzwilliam Streets are 40 k/hr at all staff members over more complex or sensitive issues.
times.
- Given the daily commitments of staff to their classes
- Glenferrie and Barkers Roads are 40 k/hr between 8 am and associated responsibilities, staff will reply as soon as
– 9.30 am and 2.30 pm – 4 pm on school days. possible.
2. Parking is very limited particularly at peak times. - Staff will use an out-of-office reply to explain a delayed
Remember to check council signage in relation to: response due to school holidays, in-services and excursions.
- Drop off zones only - Emails should only be sent to those staff immediately
concerned with the issues.
- 15 minute parking
(Please do not copy email to a number of staff).
- Clearway restrictions
- 2 minute parking MLC Connections
- Residential Parking Only MLC Connections is issued fortnightly on Fridays via
myMLCfamily.net and email. There is a message from the
3. School environs in the Boroondara Council Municipality Principal and items of interest to the Junior School and the
are monitored by Local Laws officers. These officers utilise whole College. This newsletter is one of the most important
videotaping equipment to record motorists failing to comply ways we keep you up to date with what is happening at MLC.
with the local laws. As a consequence, infringement notices
are mailed to the owner of the registered vehicle involved in Notices
the alleged offence.
Emails are sent to families advising of upcoming events,
excursions etc. Parents are required to consent to excursions
via an online system accessed through MyMLCfamily.
Abby and her class are painting some of the sea creatures they’ve Genevieve, Year 4, practices her multiplication tables
learned about this term
13Excursion rules Lost property
Legally the College requires a separate consent form to be To ensure that your daughter does not lose anything of value,
completed for each excursion in which a student participates. there are two simple rules to follow:
Consent forms are to be completed online ahead of time, along
1. Ensure that every item of clothing and every piece of
with detailed information about the proposed excursion.
equipment is clearly labelled with your daughter’s first
Regrettably, any student whose form has not been completed name and surname with permanent pen or labels.
online will not be allowed to participate in the excursion.
2. Do not allow your daughter to bring anything of value to
Parents assisting with excursions/ camps etc. require a current
school apart from those items that are needed. The College
WWCC and must have completed the online MLC volunteer unit.
cannot take responsibility for expensive items that are lost.
In the event of any item being lost, please check at the Junior
School Office and Prep to Year 2 building or the Physical
Houses Education Centre.
All labelled items will be returned to the respective student.
The College has five Houses with mascots, these are:
Any items of clothing or belongings which are not labelled and
Berry – Purple Turtle
remain unclaimed, will be kept at spares, or donated to the MLC
Cato – Blue Bear Uniform Shop or to a charity group.
Fitchett – Yellow Lion
Krome – Green Frog
Nevile – Pink Panther Reports and parent teacher and
student conferences (PTSC)
From 2022, MLC Junior School will adopt a process of
Continuous Reporting to parents. Such a process provides
for more regular information on student progress to reinforce
student learning and ensure regular contact between parents/
guardians and teachers around areas for development.
Formal Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences will also be
facilitated throughout the year.
The names are derived from some of the outstanding
benefactors or leaders in the history of the College. Each
student is a member of a House and encouraged to participate Service learning
and contribute.
MLC has a strong commitment to Service Learning.
Students are not able to choose their House but are assigned to
Each House is allocated a Service Learning Day, where they are
a House maintaining a balance in numbers between each House.
able to raise money for their nominated charities by conducting
The exception is if a close relative is currently or was previously a range of activities.
an MLC student, the new student would be allocated to the
Junior School is also passionately committed to supporting
same House.
KOTO Vietnam (Know One Teach One) and Cambodia Rural
In the Junior School the House system has significance for Student Trust, which both help educate and improve the plight
several special events during the year, such as the Music of disadvantaged and homeless children and youth of Vietnam
Festival, swimming, cross-country and athletics carnivals. and Cambodia.
Star Café
Students may order lunches from the Star Café, which is
located in the secondary school grounds. Orders are placed
online through http://www.flexischools.com.au and are
delivered to Junior School.
Students will receive crackers provided by the Junior School
Office if they have forgotten their lunch.
Lucy’s collage depicts all the marine animals her Year 2 class has
learned about over the term.
Junior School Handbook 2022Lucy, Year 2, is using
collage to learn more about
underwater ecosystems
15Zoe and Adele play on Junior School’s iconic
tram – a favourite spot for lunchtime play
Junior School Handbook 2022College map
FITZWILLIAM ST
DROP OFF / PICK UP
32
33
36 40
31 Tennis Physical
30 38 Courts Education Centre
37
35 41
34 39
29
28 28
Principal’s
Terrace
Garden
26
Jean Perkins Sports Oval
GLENFERRIE RD
Star
27
ROSSFIELD AV
Plaza 25 24 23
LOFTS AV
21
19 20 22 Tennis
Courts
18 12
GROVE AVENUE
11 10
16 15 9 8
17
3
7 DROP OFF / PICK UP
14 13 2
4
TIDDEMAN DRIVE 5
6
1
Front Garden
BARKERS RD
5. Administration 7. Hamley Centre Reception 24. (PEC)
34. Assembly Hall
5. Administration 17. 16. Health
Fitchett Centre
Hall / CCC 10.12. Principal’s
Music School Administration
32. ArtHall
House 22. James Tatoulis Auditorium 28. Print Centre
34. Assembly 40. Gymnasium 26. Nevile Wing
31. Betty Jackson Hall 23. Junior Secondary School Office 36. Senior School Office
32. Art House 7. Hamley Centre Reception 23. Nicholas Learning Centre
15. Boarders’ Dining Hall 1. Junior School Prep – 2 27. Senior Science
31. Betty
27. Jackson Hall
Book Room 16. Health Centre
3. Junior School Years 3 – 6 Physical
39.37. Education Centre Office (PEC)
Star Cafe
15. Boarders’
33. CatoDining
WingHall 4. Junior
22. James School
Tatoulis Office
Auditorium 24.41. StudentAdministration
Principal’s Support Services
27. Book Centenary Building
29.Room 23.30. Krome
Junior Dining School
Secondary Room Office 12.13. Swimming
Print Centre Pool
35. David Loader Centre 19. Language Centre 14. The Residence
33. Cato Wing 1. Junior School Prep – 2 28. Senior School Office
18. Dramatic Arts / Dwyer Hall 27. Library 8. Tiddeman Boarding House
29. Centenary Building 3. Junior School Years 3 – 6 36. Senior Science
20. Dr Wood Learning Centre 9. Maintenance 27. Uniform Shop
35. David
21. Loader Centre
Dr Wood LC Eastern Courtyard Junior
4.25. School
Middle Office
School Office 27. Star Cafe
Woodgate Building
38. Elizabeth
18. Dramatic Tatoulis
Arts / Dwyer HallScience Wing 2. MLCDining
30. Krome KindleRoom 37. Student Support Services
11. Flockart
20. Dr Wood Hall
Learning Centre 10. Music School
19. Language Centre 41. Swimming Pool
6. Fitchett Chapel 26. Nevile Wing
21. Dr Wood LC Eastern Courtyard 27. Library 13. The Residence
17. Fitchett Hall / CCC 23. Nicholas Learning Centre
38. Elizabeth Tatoulis Science Wing Maintenance
9.39. Physical Education Centre Office 14. Tiddeman Boarding House
40. Gymnasium
11. Flockart Hall 25. Middle School Office 8. Uniform Shop
6. Fitchett Chapel 2. MLC Kindle 27. Woodgate Building
17Learning at MLC
Welcome to our learning statement. This sets out what we value
the most about learning at MLC. It will inform expectations
and principles we all strive for.
The statement creates a common language and puts learning at Learning at MLC promotes the curious mind. As we know that
the centre of all that we do. Learning is an active experience here. such minds will be needed to contribute positively to society.
There is an expectation to engage deeply with learning and be an
active participant in the broad experiences on offer. We invite you
to do the same with this statement about Learning at MLC.
Creativity
We value ideas and new ways of thinking. Thinking creatively
A Diversity of Achievement is another key component of the learning experience. This
means there are plenty of opportunities to develop, share and
Learning at MLC provides a range of opportunities for everyone encourage new ideas. These may be an important insight or
to demonstrate what they understand and to express their connection an individual discovers, either way we strive to
ideas. This means helping every learner to comprehend what enable the ideal conditions for creative thinking.
achievement looks like for them, in all of its different forms.
Creative thinkers at MLC learn to persevere in the development
We value diverse measures of educational success. of their ideas, draw on a range of resources and access the
varied expertise on offer. This often means reflecting on what it
Learning at MLC is far more than achieving an end result. Our
takes to accept feedback and to take advice that moves an idea
students are not defined by the narrow measures of educational
forward a developmental step.
achievement.
As a leader in learning we accept the responsibility for
redefining what education success is.
At the heart of our commitment to this at MLC is the presence Critical Thinking
of ongoing assessment and effective feedback throughout the
Learning at MLC helps us continually challenge what we think
learning experience. This emphasises the small steps of learning
we have learned. By being actively involved in learning and
progress that happen moment to moment, every day. We pay
engaging in a meaningful way with ideas, we think deeply about
attention to the small details that add up to big progress.
our experience and develop critical thinking skills.
Every student can independently progress in their learning
Learning has the potential to balance creative and critical
by identifying next steps and by having time to reflect on the
thinking. Opportunities for reflection are common, allowing
process, because learning is centred on the individual learner
us all to reconsider the approach we have taken and the new
and their own journey.
ideas or insights we may have developed. Whether it is students
Engaging with our learning statement gives you a clear sense collaborating on ideas or MLC staff working together in teams;
of what we value most about learning and how we all strive to you will see moments where we stop and reflect on our progress.
engage deeply with learning at MLC.
Relationships
Curiosity Relationships are at the centre of everything that we do at
Questioning the world around us is a starting point for great MLC. Respectful, trusting and caring relationships create the
learning. Learning at MLC encourages everyone to challenge ideal conditions for learning. These include learning from one
the world around us and to appreciate the role a curious mind another, in the company of our peers, partnerships with the
plays in great learning. We know that questions may be the wider world as well as the relationship we have with subject
spark to new ideas. Step into a learning space and you will see disciplines we are learning.
questions being shared, lines of inquiry being developed, and all
Learning at MLC is designed with the learner in mind. Learning
participants deeply involved in learning.
is relevant and purposeful as a result of trusting and caring
Fostering curious minds goes beyond asking better questions; relationships. The relationships we have allow a sharing of
it involves becoming accustomed with the unknown. Learning information and stories, which can be used to ensure learning is
is less about declaring what we know and more about exploring engaging, focused and appropriate for everyone.
the uncertainty we feel as we discover new insights on our own.
Learning is a shared experience. The social endeavour supports
It takes courage to resist the urge to reach for a quick answer
the longer journey throughout MLC and contributes positively to
and to allow a question to lead to further inquiry.
an enduring appetite for learning. Learning at MLC is as much
about our connections with others as it is about establishing an
understanding of who we are.
Junior School Handbook 2022Caterina, Year 4,
practices her creative
writing skills
19Curriculum
MLC provides all students with the opportunity to develop
skills and acquire knowledge in a broad range of subject areas,
including the STEAM based disciplines (Science, Technology,
Engineering, Arts and Mathematics).
Curriculum is constantly being developed and reviewed with
changes occurring in response to insights gained through Art
professional development and research. All Junior School students attend Visual Arts lessons on a
Details of the contents of the curriculum are provided by the weekly basis.
class teacher at Parent Information and Curriculum Evenings, The Visual Art curriculum seeks to develop students’
with regular updates throughout the term. The Junior School intellectual, imaginative and expressive potential in a wide
English Coordinator is Mrs Penny Stephenson, the Mathematics range of two and three dimensional art media.
Coordinator is Ms Michelle Jenkins.
Students sequentially develop their skills and techniques whilst
Section Coordinators Miss Fiona Green, Prep – Year 2, Mrs establishing knowledge of processes which in turn forms a
Melissa Brown, Years 3 – 4, and Mrs Bridget Crough, Years basis for personal expression.
5 – 6 are also happy to discuss any aspects of Junior School
Curriculum or connect Specialist teachers and parents for The students develop an understanding of aesthetics and how
further information sharing. Visual Art relates to particular social, cultural and historical
contexts.
Students at Banskia, our Education Outdoors campus on the Banksia Peninsula
Junior School Handbook 2022Education Outdoors program Years 5 - 6
40 minutes of homework Monday – Thursday. Daily reading.
Education Outdoors is considered an important component of
each student’s education. Participation is compulsory. If you feel at any time that your daughter is spending too much
time on homework, or you have specific concerns about the
Year 3 homework, please consult the class teacher.
Classes attend an overnight camp at The Briars, Mount Martha.
Year 4 Languages
Students attend Camp Waratah at Waratah Bay.
The languages other than English taught in Junior School are
These camps occur towards the end of the year and are an Japanese and French: Japanese for students in Prep to Year 4
additional cost which will be itemised on the tuition fees. and French for Years 5 and 6 students.
The language program in Junior School is designed to promote
Year 5 – 6
and establish awareness of language and the development of
For students in Years 5 to 8, programs are conducted on the language skills.
Banksia Peninsula at MLC Banksia, our classroom on the
Languages are taught using the communicative method and,
Gippsland Lakes.
listening and speaking are of primary importance with reading
Year 5 students spend four days in their class groups at MLC and writing being introduced progressively.
Banksia. There is a bushwalk and an overnight campout on
Opportunities for authentic communication with native speakers
the Peninsula and students develop their fundamental skills in
are provided through the Language Assistant program, special
camp craft.
events and excursions.
The week finishes with a day on the water, exploring Lake
Victoria and Raymond Island areas.
The Year 5 program, which is conducted toward the end of the
year, allows both students and staff to celebrate the year they Learning support
have experienced together.
Learning Support staff work in several ways to promote student
Year 6 students travel by bus with their class and spend five learning. Depending on the needs of the students, teachers
days at a different part of MLC Banksia. work in the classroom to assist students or to team-teach with
the classroom teacher.
Students spend the week focusing on the importance of water.
They engage in activities that allow them to gain an understanding Individual learning programs are developed and implemented to
and insight into the various ‘user groups’ that rely on water. cater for the special needs of students where appropriate and
curriculum is modified and/or extended as required.
Students are introduced to canoeing and travel to the Mitchell
River National Park where they complete their overnight Where necessary, Learning Support staff liaise with other
campout and bushwalk. professionals, classroom teachers and parents to provide
an integrated support network. Learning Support staff may
Each year level program provides an opportunity for students to
work with small groups of students to support specific skill
work together in a unique environment.
development in the areas of reading, writing and maths.
For Year 6 students, the program allows students to make new Specialist staff are also available to work with students who are
friends and get to know one another and their teachers in a fun hearing impaired or have English as a second language.
and relaxed setting at the beginning of the year.
The Compass Program offers additional opportunities for
learning extension. Compass staff work closely with teachers
General information
to ensure that talent is identified and catered for within the
Medical and Consent Forms are required for all students classroom as well as in small group withdrawal sessions.
attending the Education Outdoors Programs. These forms must Compass classes are available for Years 3 to 6.
be completed online prior to the day of departure or the student
For referral to the Compass Program, parents are encouraged
will not be allowed to participate in the program.
to make initial contact with the classroom teacher who may
The cost of the program is added to the school tuition fees. then contact Learning Support staff.
Homework Library
Homework is considered a necessary part of Junior School life The main purpose of the Junior School Library is to nurture
as it helps to develop regular study habits from an early age. As a love of reading and provide access to a comprehensive
many of our students have busy days, homework is limited to collection of print and digital books. Library sessions promote
allow for physical activity, play, music practice etc. literature, information and research skills, whilst also enabling
an awareness of the latest developments in information
Prep resources, technologies and services.
Take home reading books every day and occasional home task. We have a rich and diverse program which includes lunchtime
activities, visits by well-known Australian and International
Years 1 - 2 authors and illustrators, exciting Book Week events, a Book Fair
and many opportunities for students to meet and have books
10 minutes of homework Monday – Thursday. Daily reading.
signed by their favourite authors throughout the year.
Years 3 -4 The library is open before and after school every day and at lunch
times for quiet reading, studying, homework and borrowing.
25 minutes of homework Monday – Thursday. Daily reading.
21Junior School students also have library lessons. Students from - If a parent wishes to attend for an occasional lesson, a note
Prep to Year 4 are required to use a library bag when borrowing should be sent to the Music Instructor by the parent with a
from the library. A cloth bag is preferred, and these can be request to attend for either a specific date or any ordinary
purchased from the Uniform Shop or brought from home. lesson. Once confirmed by the Music Instructor, the date/
time will be confirmed by email or via the Music Record
The Junior School Library contains a wide-ranging print
Book. On the day, the parent should sign-in either at MLC
collection of age-appropriate non-fiction, fiction, picture books,
Main Reception, Junior School or at the Music Office and
graphic novels, folio fiction, audio books, eBooks and DVDs.
receive a visitor’s pass, then collect their daughter from
The MLC Libraries Junior School Digital Library website also Junior School. Please allow extra time to do this so the
contains age-appropriate online resources, databases, eBooks lesson can start on time.
and year level topic guides which can be accessed from school
NB: Only for full-time Suzuki students. If a parent wishes to
or home through the MLC Intranet.
attend for every lesson, a note should be sent to the Music
The Junior School Library also supports various Clubs to allow Instructor by the parent with a request to attend weekly
the opportunity for like-minded students to come together to lessons. Once confirmed by the Music Instructor, the dates/
discuss books, play games and celebrate literature in its many times will be confirmed by email or via the Music Record Book
forms. and the same arrangements will apply as those for ad hoc
lessons.
The parenting collection is also available for loan. The books and
DVDs available (borrowed under your daughter’s name) support Informal drop-ins are not possible.
parents on topics such as resilience, friendships, happiness,
self-esteem, practical parenting, fitting in, raising boys and girls,
autism, health and many other topics by esteemed authors such
as Steven Biddulph, Dr Lea Waters, Andrew Fuller, Michael Grose, Physical Education
and Dr Lyndel Kennedy to name a few.
All students participate in an extensive Physical Education
Program based around encouraging students to do their best.
We aim to create a fun environment, which will allow your
Music daughter’s skill level to flourish, and her passion for activity to
continue to grow. There will be many occasions through our
In classroom music lessons, students are involved in a wide
program for students to explore new activities and refine known
range of music activities which involve singing, speech rhymes
skills. Together with this, opportunities exist for students to
and poems, moving and dancing, playing melodic and non-
move outside comfort zones and experience some challenging
melodic percussion instruments and listening to music.
but rewarding situations.
The program is based on the Orff and Kodaly approaches to
Students all complete a semester of aquatics, which includes
music education and there is a strong emphasis on creative
water familiarisation, stroke technique, water safety and diving.
music making and improvisation.
When the students are undertaking aquatics, this constitutes
All students also participate in choir session and there is a half of their Physical Education Program.
great culture of singing within the Junior School. There is also
MLC Active is a program designed by the MLC Physical
an auditioned choir for Years 5 and 6 students – the Junior
Education staff to assist students in developing and
School Concert Choir, which performs regularly at events both
understanding fitness and it also plays an important role in
within and outside of the College.
encouraging students to strive for their best and then work
Year 2 students participate in a Strings Program learning violin, towards individual fitness goals.
viola or cello. Students in Years 3 and 4 learn the recorder within
the classroom music program. Year 5 students participate in Inter-House and Inter-Class Events
the Band Program, incorporating Strings, Woodwind, Brass and
All Prep to Year 6 students participate in the Junior School
Percussion instruments. They have a weekly, hour long session
Sports Day held in November focusing on fun and participation.
and work in small groups of up to ten students.
Students compete against other students of their own year
Silver Strings, Junior School Strings, Junior School Band and
level in a variety of novelty and athletic events, gaining points
Junior School Percussion Group rehearse weekly and perform
for their allocated House. There is also an opportunity for
at various events throughout the year.
students in all year levels to compete in House gymnastics. In
Students in Year 6 have an opportunity to perform a musical addition, Years 4 to 6 students also compete in year level Inter-
each year. Recent productions include Moana, The Lion King Class and Inter-House athletics and swimming events during
Junior and Aladdin Jnr. their Physical Education classes.
Music lessons
Instrumental music is organised and taught by music teachers
from the Music School, under the directorship of Mr Christopher
Hill. Students wishing to learn an instrument privately should
contact the Music School Office on +61 3 9274 6325.
Parents attending music lessons:
- Music Tuition lessons are timetabled by the Music Instructor
in consultation with the classroom teacher and on an
individual basis to meet the learning needs of the student.
Junior School Handbook 2022Amelie-Rose participates in the
Junior School band, one of the
ways students can extend their
musical interests beyond the
school curriculum.
23Student wellbeing
Student Wellbeing at MLC is based on the understanding
that student wellbeing and student learning are intricately
linked. All teachers at Junior School take responsibility for
the wellbeing of the students.
Students’ social and emotional learning is promoted through These programs are designed under the whole College
developmentally appropriate curriculum, programs and framework of PROSPER, developed by McGrath and Noble.
activities which aim to build a positive sense of identity, a range
of supportive relationships with others and a sense of belonging P = Positivity
within the MLC community.
Supporting students to develop positivity skills and experience
positive emotions
R = Relationships
Supporting students to develop the social and emotional (SEL)
skills and pro-social values that underpin positive relationships
O = Outcomes
Provision of an optimal learning environment to enhance
students’ outcomes and accomplishments
S = Strengths
Using strengths-based approaches
P = Purpose and meaning
Supporting students to develop a sense of purpose and
meaning
Junior School students can get up and move during break times, E = Engagement
with sports equipment provided. Enhancing student engagement
R = Resilience
Supporting students to develop the skills and attitudes that
underpin resilient behaviour
If there are particular issues impacting a student’s wellbeing,
then a supportive and collaborative approach is taken to
address the individual needs of the student, whilst respecting
their privacy and that of their family.
In order to facilitate this approach, we ask that parents/
guardians keep class teachers informed of any issues impacting
their daughter’s wellbeing.
Counselling
Counselling is available to all students of MLC and their
families. The Counsellors assist with a variety of issues,
both related to school and other matters.
It is a private and confidential service. Appointments
can be made directly by contacting Student Services
on +61 3 9274 6393.
Junior School Handbook 2022Holly and her friends have many choices when it comes to break time play, with multiple playgrounds to choose from.
Intercultral understanding at MLC - A sense of universal values for a culture of peace.
- The ability to value freedom and the civic responsibility that
Today’s students work in an atmosphere of different languages, goes with it.
cultures, ethnicity and religions. It is our responsibility to
enable people to develop an orientation that encompasses a - Intercultural understanding which encourages the
willingness to engage with others, have openness to divergent convergence of ideas and solutions to strengthen peace.
cultural experiences and a competence in making their way - Skills of non-violent conflict resolution. Skills of making
in other cultures through listening, looking, intuition and informed choices.
reflection.
- Respect for cultural heritage and protection of the
To facilitate the College in becoming an internationally minded environment.
school, the UNESCO Declaration of 1996 has been adopted to
help develop: - Feelings of solidarity and equity at the national and
international levels.
25Students like Alysha and April
have plenty of opportunities
to make friends: through
classroom connections, as part
of a co-curricular team or on
the playground at lunchtime.
Peer relations Unacceptable behaviour is that which:
- Is dangerous to the student, other students, staff or property.
MLC Junior School aims to provide all students with a positive
learning environment which: - Is offensive or inconsiderate.
- Encourages students to develop self-discipline and a sense - Interferes with the rights of teachers to teach and students
of self-worth, to respect the rights and feelings of others, to learn.
and to take responsibility for their own actions; Unacceptable behaviour can take many forms. One specific
- Ensures that students, staff and parents can clearly unacceptable behaviour is bullying. Valerie Besag (1989) in
understand the school’s expectation of student behaviour; and “Bullies and Victims in Schools” defines bullying as:
- Establishes a set of principles for dealing with unacceptable - A repetitive attack which causes distress not only at the
behaviour. time of the attack but also by threat of future attacks.
Every member of the MLC community is expected to honour - Characterised by the dominance of the powerful over the
and support these aims. powerless in whatever context.
“Action Against Bullying: A Support Pack for Schools” (1992) by
Expected Behaviour – Rights, Responsibilities and Rules M Johnstone, P Munn and L Edwards defines bullying as:
Students at MLC have agreed that they are entitled to expect - The wilful conscious desire to hurt or threaten or frighten
the following rights: someone else.
- We all have the right to be happy, to feel safe, to be treated - Verbal, physical or psychological in nature.
with respect and to learn.
Verbal bullying may include name calling, offensive or
- Students at MLC understand that for all students to enjoy threatening language, picking on people, ridiculing people
these rights, all students have responsibilities towards other behind their backs, racist insults, sexual innuendo or put downs.
members of the school community.
Physical bullying may include fighting, pushing, shoving, invasion
- Parents and staff are expected to encourage and support of personal space or damaging other people’s possessions.
the development of acceptable behaviours within the school
environment.
Junior School Handbook 2022Psychological bullying may include circulating offensive emails, Students
text messages, notes or material (including online material),
Students are encouraged to report any inappropriate behaviour
graffiti, repeated exclusion from peer group or phone calls.
to their classroom teacher, or another teacher with whom the
student feels confident or comfortable, who in turn should
Procedures and Action
report the incident to the Section Coordinator and Deputy Head
It is the responsibility of all students, teachers and parents of Junior School.
within the school community to report incidents of
inappropriate behaviour. Parents
Parents should notify their daughter’s teacher and/ or the
Teachers
Head of Junior School or Deputy Head of Junior School of any
In accordance with the College’s Code of Behaviour teachers incidents which they feel can be construed as inappropriate
are encouraged to: behaviour and which should be addressed by the school.
Parents are encouraged to:
- Investigate and report incidents of concern.
- Ensure that their daughter is aware of the proposed action
- Report the concerns reported by parents and investigate
to notify the school.
where appropriate.
- Present the problem to the class teacher in order to work
- Report the incident to the Head of Junior School.
out a solution.
- Report back to the parent on the outcome of the
- Discuss the action proposed by the teacher and if any
investigation.
involvement of parents is necessary.
- Explore ideas of what might be done and develop a joint
- Arrange for a further meeting if necessary to assess what
plan with the parent to overcome the problem.
has occurred.
- Involve the Junior School Counsellor if required.
- Further information is listed in the Junior School Planners.
27Notebook, iPads and technology
The College has a policy of providing a personal digital device
to all Junior School students. Each student in Prep to Year 2 is
provided with an iPad for their personal use while at school.
The same iPad will be used by the student during her time in
Prep to Year 2.
Care of computers
Computers, bags and their attachments should be
clearly labelled. When not in use, computers are stored in
computer lockers, located in the classroom. Computers left
unsupervised will be confiscated. A substantial fine will be
applied and a letter sent to parents. It is each student’s
responsibility to provide sufficient care and supervision of
her device.
Each student is responsible for ensuring that her battery is
sufficiently charged before class.
The computer should be carried in its bag at all times. The
computer should never be moved when it is turned on. If a
computer has been moved around the College without a bag
and is damaged it may not be covered by insurance. When
transporting a computer to and from school it should be
Miss Bollen leads her Year 4 class through a maths lesson. carried in its bag in the school backpack. Care should be taken
when packing a computer for travelling that there is no weight
or pressure from books or other items on it.
In Years 3 and 4 the students are provided with a notebook
computer for their personal use while at school. In Year 5, all Computer software or games that interfere with the student’s
students are issued with a new notebook that will be theirs to curriculum related software must not be used.
be used at school, but will also be allowed to be taken home.
This notebook computer will be used in Years 5 and 6. A new
notebook computer is then issued every 2 years, in Years 7, 9
and 11.
Mobile Phones
Students and parents must sign an agreement if they are to
The notebook computers are covered by warranty and
bring their mobile phone to school. Student mobile phones
insurance. Software costs are not included in the school tuition
should be stored in the classrooms during the day.
fees and the software requirements change between schools
and also subject areas. Students wearing smart watches connected to their phones are
required to turn their devices to flight mode during the school day.
These costs are added to the fees statement at the appropriate
time. Students needing to make contact with parents during the
school day should request use of the landline from their class
Devices are integrated as learning tools throughout the school,
teacher or at Reception.
and are used for many purposes, including:
- Online Safety and Etiquette; file management skills;
keyboarding, touch typing and word processing skills.
- Searches of the internet for researching skills – Use of computers
bookmarking sites. Students are responsible for appropriate behaviour on
- Programming, coding and using animation packages. school computer networks just as they are in the classroom.
Communications on the network are often public in nature.
- Various programming languages. General school rules for behaviour and communications
- Robotic devices – vehicles such as Bee Bots; apply. The network is provided for students to conduct
research and to communicate with others as part of the
- Pro Bots; Ozo Bots; Hummingbird and Weedo Lego Robotic. educational program.
Junior School Handbook 2022You can also read
