2024 issue #1

Issue#1

Welcome

We are excited to present the first edition of the Buzz which is packed with stories and anecdotes from the busy start of the year. However, we decided to delay publishing this edition, as the final few weeks were filled with exciting student activities. We believe that the delay was worthwhile, and we hope you enjoy reading it.

The Buzz Issue #1 captures the many facets of college life across our two campuses, where over 150 staff members lead 1100 students. As the 2024 school year is in full swing, we are proud of the community and the academic life of the college. The pages of Buzz Issue #1 testify to this, showcasing the many opportunities available to Braemarians.

We encourage you to explore the breadth of experience and opportunity available to all our students and hope that you enjoy reading the Buzz Issue #1.

Mr Russell Deer Principal

Braemar College Communications

The College communicates via various platforms. At the start of term, as we settle into the academic year, I thought it might be worthwhile providing a summary.

The Braemar Buzz is our twice-termly newsletter. So much is happening in the first four weeks that we will delay our Issue 1 until a little later in the term. In the meantime, you can keep up with college activities via our social media on Facebook and Instagram.

The Braemar Bulletin is a text-based summary of the week ahead. This comes to you via SEQTA. This easy-to-load summary contains the week ahead in a snapshot.

You can find social media updates on:

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/BraemarCollegeWoodend

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/braemarcollegewoodend

Leaders and teachers use SEQTA communications, and these arrive via email. We do not use the Direct Messaging feature. It remains online, should the email system fail.

Finally, SMS is used to alert parents and guardians when a high-priority matter requires your attention. For example, our student absence management team uses SMS when a student is listed as absent without explanation. SMS is also used when College operations are disrupted; for example, closure due to a total fire ban.

I hope this summary helps students, parents, and guardians access and use the College’s communications effectively.

“If you follow the classical pattern, you are understanding the routine, the tradition, the shadowyou are not understanding yourself.”

Our return to 2024 and the routine of life in the Middle School has highlighted the amazing and varied activities on offer for our students. Each week so far this year we have seen some change to the regular cycle of schooling, as students have engaged in immersive experiences both on campus and beyond. It has been pleasing to see the way in which students have embraced each and every learning opportunity for themselves but also connected with each other with kindness and respect.

Connecting with families at the Welcome Evenings in the first week of term offered an opportunity for members of the community to come together and begin building connections between parents and staff. The experiences of our students this term have included a week in Anglesea for the Year 7 cohort on their Exeat Program where they enjoyed time in the water bodyboarding and surfing, visited the lighthouse and learnt about the ecosystem of the waterways. In Year 6, students explored the geology of Organ Pipes National Park and Hanging Rock whilst engaging in an interdisciplinary activity alongside their art studies. Our Year 5 students have continued forging new connections with their peers, navigating the new environment of the College and learning about life in the Middle School. In Year 8, the Experiential learning activities for students have included an exploration of the Melbourne CBD connected to their learning in Investigate around cells and organisms.

It is important to acknowledge the efforts of our staff who have been focused on providing an experience for students where they feel known, connected and supported. As a team in the Middle School, we are continuing to embrace an approach to working with a collaborative and consistent mindset through engaging activities in the classroom and beyond. The efforts of our educators continue to bring to life a thriving learning community where students are continually able to better understand themselves and their community.

Whilst the experiences of students have been varied, the changes to routine have encouraged our young people to be independent, self-regulating and flexible in their approach to their time at the College. Developing this skillset in a world that is VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous) is an important part of the development of our future generations. I am looking forward to seeing our students engage with this same mindset in the terms to come.

Mr Rob Jenkins Head of Middle School

Welcome back to 2024. It has been wonderful to welcome the Year 9 cohort into Senior School formally, where for these past few weeks, the Year 9 students have been busy assimilating into the Senior School and working with their new teachers to understand the changes and demands within the campus. I am impressed with the strategies and approaches the students have applied during this transition period, and many Year 9 students have spoken about the changes and growth they have experienced.

The Year 10 students are preparing for their work experience programs. The College now offers more flexibility and opportunities for students to pursue authentic work experiences. The aim is to provide real-life experiences and opportunities for students beyond the classroom, in place of rigid weeks. These work experiences allow students to experience and consider future subjects, careers, and alternative programs. They are integral in developing long-term outcomes for the student’s educational goals and outcomes.

I am pleased to announce the student leaders for 2024 have been selected and welcomed into the College. The leaders from Year 12 students were formally recognised at the Commencement assembly, while the Year 11 leaders have been recognised in assembly. The College has appointed Bus, Subject, Sport and Extracurricular captains. Although there were many deserving candidates, not all could be selected for a position. I would like to congratulate all the students who applied for these roles and recognise those who were successful. Furthermore, the Senior School students have undertaken a mentor program, connecting the Middle and Senior School leaders. These students have shared goals, programs and days to celebrate together as a College alongside the House Captains for house events.

Senior School, have planned and prepared for the Years 9 to 12 EXEAT week. During the first senior school assembly, I discussed how lucky we are to have the options and experiences offered within the EXEAT program, specifically the learning opportunities beyond the classroom they provide. I am mindful these experiences may encourage students to step outside of their comfort zones, while others will thrive. As a College, we have worked closely with students to seek feedback about the week and altered programs to address any concerns. I thank the students for their valuable insight. We aim to provide choice wherever possible, and students also select a peer they wish to work with as a critical aspect of EXEAT. This ensures all students feel comfortable and supported during the week.

Finally, I am proud of the Senior School students who have all largely attended and led their Student Parent Teacher conferences. Taking the time to reflect upon their learning progress, strategies and focus on the students in discussion with their teachers, along with the support of home is always invaluable.

Ms Lisa Fritz Head of Senior School

Hi, my name is Caelan Theodore and I am lucky to be one of Middle School Captains. I am grateful for the opportunity to be Middle School Captain and am looking forward to many new experiences. At school I really enjoy P.E, Investigate and Indonesian. In my spare time I play basketball and swim 5 times a week and compete at State Level. I have an older older brother and sister as well as Dog called Ralph, I am the youngest in my family.

Hi, my name is Emily McKernan, and I am one of the Middle School Captains for 2024. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and I am really looking forward to many new experiences. This year I am hoping to make the Braemar community even stronger by getting more people to participate in school events and clubs. I also hope to create more opportunities so everyone can do something they enjoy. Outside of school, I enjoy dancing and playing netball for my local club. I also enjoy travelling with my family in our caravan and exploring different places and towns across Australia. I live with my mum, dad, brother, two cats and dog. At school I enjoy Humanities, English and Science.

College Captains

Hi! My name is Tadhg Condron, and I am grateful to be a College Captain for 2024. For those who don’t know me, I am often playing basketball, I currently play for Bendigo, and you may have also seen me working at the Woodend Ice Cream Shop over the years, (a very fun job).

Even more importantly, I am an avid and patriotic Farley house member, and I love seeing the smiles, fun competitiveness, and togetherness that house events bring. That’s something I’ve always loved since Year 7 when I came to Braemar, and to me that culture, and that feeling of belonging and acceptance that our togetherness brings, is what makes Braemar so special.

I want to help cultivate that culture as a role model, and I want to help lead Braemar in a way that is authentic, enthusiastic, and fun. At the same time, I want to learn as much as I can in this role, and I want to walk out of this year, a better leader, student and most importantly, with the rest of Braemar, a better person. In the meantime, I’ll keep, proudly, telling my jokes at assembly where nobody laughs, (it’s a work in progress).

Thank you for the opportunity to be your College Captain, and I can’t wait to bring to life all the plans what Em and I, and the rest of the leadership team have been working hard on, for 2024.

Hi everyone, my name is Emily Miles, and I am lucky enough to be one of the College Captains for 2024. Having commenced at Braemar in Year 5, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the College so far and will be saddened when it comes to an end. PE and Business Management are my favourite subjects this year and I’m looking forward to exploring the opportunities that present themselves after I have finished Year 12. Next year, I am hoping to study Veterinary Medicine at university. Playing netball takes up the majority of my time outside of school, I play for the Romsey Redbacks and the City West Falcons. I also umpire and coach netball during the season. However, when I’m not at netball I enjoy spending time on my farm, hanging out with friends or with my dogs Pixie and Tess. I am looking forward to continuing to develop and nurture the returning and newly formed traditions within the College community over the course of my final year at the College.

“A new school year means new beginnings, new adventures, new friendships, and new challenges. The slate is clean, and anything can happen.”

As we venture through on a new school year, let us adopt the empowering mantra of “Be More in ‘24.” This mindset infuses our journey with a fresh outlook, inspiring us to approach each day with renewed energy and a commitment to personal growth. It is a time to shed the routines of the past and greet the opportunity for reinvention with open arms. For some, it may mean transitioning to a new year level, while for others, it could mark the start of a whole new educational journey. Regardless, the possibilities are endless.

The year ahead at Braemar College, encourages us to forge new connections and build meaningful relationships within our school community. As we meet new classmates, teachers, and staff, let us embrace the chance to broaden our horizons and learn from one another. These connections not only enrich our educational experience but also lay the foundation for lifelong friendships and collaborations.

Term 1 provides each of us with an opportunity to set ambitious goals, pursue our passions, and push ourselves beyond our comfort zones. Whether it is trying out for a sports team, joining a club, or taking on leadership roles, let us seize every opportunity to grow, learn, and excel.

As we navigate the exciting journey ahead, let us embody the spirit of “Be More in ‘24,” embracing the challenges, celebrating the successes, and striving to become the best versions of ourselves. With determination, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, the possibilities for growth and achievement are truly limitless.

Together, as the Braemar College community, we strengthen our commitment to creating an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Welcome to Braemar, where every beginning is filled with endless possibilities and opportunities for growth.

Mrs Emma Grant Dean of Wellbeing and Culture

Teaching and learning is an exciting place to be within a school setting because it is the intersection between students, teachers and the broader community. At the heart of teaching our young people, is the knowledge that all of them are individuals who have their own stories and their own pathways to uncover. This can at times seem at odds with the schooling system where a part of us getting to know our students relies on the systematic collection of standardised data.

At the start of this school year, most students and families will have received correspondence detailing the collection of data using the platforms of either NAPLAN or Academic Assessment Services (AAS) testing. As part of our academic support and tracking of students at the College, students complete one set of academic tests each year. These tests are either NAPLAN in Year 5, 7 and 9, or those provided by AAS in Year 4, 6, 8, and 10. Both provide a snapshot of valuable insights into our students’ understanding of key concepts, critical thinking abilities, and problemsolving skills. This data is then tracked, providing longitudinal evidence for both the individual and the cohort.

Most of the time, this data corroborates what teachers see in the classroom, and the reliable and objective measures validate the teaching and learning that is happening daily. While the results do not define our students, they do help us evaluate individual growth and identify areas where additional support may be needed. By participating in these assessments, we also contribute to a system of accountability that helps us continuously improve and maintain high educational standards.

It is also worth acknowledging that standardised testing breaks from the routine of our school days and students may sometimes find this unsettling. For this reason, during the testing we took care to offer a supportive environment where individual needs are considered. Our teachers and testing facilitators guide and encourage students, and the structure and support offered is steady and unswerving. This in turn helps to destigmatise standardised testing and provides an opportunity for students to develop their academic buoyancy where future challenges can be met with self-efficacy and resilience.

While standardised testing usually does occur at the beginning of a school year, it is also just one small part of what we do in teaching and learning. So far in the 2024 school year, it has also been wonderful to watch our young people engage in their classes, meet teachers, lean in to the cocurricular activities and embrace the thriving learning environment of the College. Additionally, Student-Parent-Teacher conferences have provided us with invaluable information and connections to our families. We appreciate the time families have taken to create these ongoing partnerships and the opportunity to get to know us as a community. Standardised testing, positive environments, bustling activities and parent engagement are just a few of the tools and supports needed to scaffold the learning environment, and these have met by students and teachers in 2024 with an enthusiasm for what lies ahead.

Mrs Sharon Hitti Dean of Learning and Teaching

If you hear the music...

2024 is off to a flying start for the Music Department.

Firstly we welcome Ms Natalie Ireland into the Braemar College community. Natalie is our new classroom music teacher Years 5 to 8, taking Middle School Choir and starting a new Middle School Orff Percussion Ensemble. She explains “ This type of ensemble … is based on a technique known as Orff/ Schulwerk. It’s a great method because it is inclusive and therefore students don’t already need to have an instrumental background – but they can be involved in making music which we know is therapeutic, and, they can be part of a group, which we know is really important for our students.” Ms Natalie is highly trained and experienced in teaching the Kodaly/Orff methods and she is already making an impact. Welcome Natalie!

We congratulate Isabella Shaw and Ari Scheltema for being our joint College pianists. They have started the year working hard accompanying at our major assemblies and events. You will see and hear a lot more of them during the year. Our 2024 Music Captain Tom Lineham has already made himself indispensable supporting the myriad of activities in the music department. Go Tom!

Our fabulous music tutors are nearly at capacity with their teaching loads. If you are thinking of trying out an instrument I highly recommend sending me an email j.ogeil@braemar.vic.edu.au at your earliest convenience to reserve a place. Lessons need to be pre-purchased. For payments please use the Xplor payment portal via the below link to access this.

https://braemar.xportal.myxplor.com/

Once you have purchased a term of lessons please let me know and I will allocate a teacher asap.

Term 2 lesson pays are due by end of Term 1. Please note that there is a slight increase in fees and that a bulk purchase attracts a discount.

30 min - $49.00 (30 min * 4 bundle – $196.00 |30 min * 8 bundle - $392.00)

60 min - $91.00 (60 min * 4 bundle – $364.00 | 60 min * 8 bundle - $728.00)

Ensemble rehearsals are happening across both campuses.

In Middle School we have MS string ensemble, MS choir and MS percussion ensemble; mainly on a Wednesday. These are open to all students whether you learn an instrument at the College or outside the College.

Senior School Ensembles are: Senior School Choir (Tuesdays), SS Percussion (Wednesdays), SS Strings (Wednesdays) and Jazz ensemble (Fridays).

The 19th Woodend Winter Arts Festival was launched on 24 March with a recital by singer/songwriter LIOR at St Ambrose Catholic Church. The VCE music class will be attended the performance as an incursion. LIOR is also famous for his co-commissioned composition with Nigel Westlake called Compassion which has been performed by all major symphony orchestras.

A reminder to support and put the Jacksons@Braemar restaurant nights and lunches in your diary; these provide another important opportunity for performances for students.

Yours, with good vibrations,

Dr Jacky Ogeil Director of Music

Sport Update

Introduction: The term has been an exhilarating whirlwind of sports activities at Braemar College. With our two major House Carnivals successfully concluded, interschool sport events attended, and sign-ups commenced for Term 2 sports, the term has been filled with excitement and competitive spirit.

House Swimming Carnival: The House Swimming Carnival saw record numbers of enthusiastic participants, braving a hot day forecast. Congratulations are in order for Darling House on securing a solid victory. The final standings are as follows:

Several records were set during the event, notably by Zoe Kucic and Samuel Russell. Zoe Kucic from Year 11 set a new record in the 50m Butterfly with a time of 32.90 seconds. Samuel Russell from Year 5 showcased exceptional skills by setting records in multiple categories: 25m Backstroke (19.43 seconds), 25m Breaststroke (23.10 seconds), and 25m Butterfly (18.70 seconds). Additionally, the Clyde Year 10 Female Freestyle relay team achieved an impressive time of 2 minutes and 26.20 seconds.

ICCES Swimming, Badminton & Table Tennis: Our representatives at the ICCES competitions at MSAC displayed commendable performances across swimming, badminton, and table tennis.

The swim team competed well, securing 5th place overall. The badminton teams battled fiercely throughout the day, making it to the finals and providing strong competition to the winners. Similarly, the table tennis teams exhibited determination, with special congratulations to our Senior Girls team for winning their division for the second consecutive year.

Thank you to all students, staff, and supporters for making this term a memorable one filled with sportsmanship, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments.

Mr Matt Ellis Director of Sport

VET Student of the Year

Bailey Thorne, an Old Collegian of Braemar College graduating in 2023, has recently been honoured with the prestigious VET in Schools Student of the Year award in Engineering from Bendigo TAFE. This remarkable achievement was celebrated at the 2024 Industry Excellence Awards night held in Bendigo.

Throughout his time at Braemar College, Bailey displayed exceptional dedication to both his VCE studies and his vocational education at Bendigo TAFE. Despite the demanding schedule, Bailey’s commitment never wavered, earning him admiration from his peers and educators alike.

Bailey’s success in receiving this esteemed award is a testament to his hard work, determination, and passion for engineering. His talent and drive have not only been recognised by his teachers but also by the wider community.

Simon, Bailey’s teacher at Bendigo TAFE, spoke highly of his commitment and enthusiasm for learning. Bailey’s ability to balance his academic pursuits and excel in both realms is truly commendable.

The Braemar College community extends heartfelt congratulations to Bailey Thorne on this outstanding achievement. His dedication serves as an inspiration to current and future students, showcasing the possibilities that arise from hard work and perseverance.

As Bailey continues to pursue his academic and professional endeavours, he carries with him the pride and support of his alma mater. Braemar College is immensely proud of Bailey’s accomplishments and looks forward to witnessing his continued success in the field of engineering.

Get to know us...

Mrs Jennifer Cowan

Jennifer has worked in mental health for 12 years before coming to Braemar, mostly in youth roles; she has a small private practice focusing on pet bereavement. living just outside of Daylesford, she loves bushwalking with my dogs, Olive and Banjo.

Ms Mikki Maheras

Mikki lives in Gisborne South with her family. She worked for 13 years as a teacher in Melbourne’s west before taking a break to start her own business in the Adult Education Sector. After having done this for 10 years she has decided to re-enter the education system at Braemar, teaching Investigate at Year 8.

Ms Alice Nixon

Alice Nixon, is an accomplished educator and literacy specialist, bringing over a decade of dynamic leadership and teaching experience. Adept at curriculum innovation and fostering holistic student development, she has enjoyed a variety of roles across her career such as Leading Teacher, Director of Studies, and Acting Assistant Principal. A devoted mother of two young boys, Alice finds joy in reading, bushwalking, and spending time in the garden with her greyhound, Marilyn.

Ms Liz Smith

Liz is an Educational Support Staff Team member and loves Science and Math and has worked in Pharmaceuticals for almost 20 years, both here in Australia and in the USA. She has spent three years in Education support in mainstream and specialist schools, and adores gardening, cooking, all animals, and laughing, each as much as possible.

Swimming Sports Wrap...

The Braemar community basked in fine weather and warm temperatures, setting the stage for an unforgettable event.

Despite the looming total fire ban that eventuated the following day, over 1000 members of the Braemar community gathered to participate in a day filled with camaraderie and competition. The main highlight was the quality racing that unfolded across two pools, showcasing the talent of competitors spanning eight year levels and all strokes. Records were shattered, marking this event as one for the books.

But the excitement didn’t end there. A tug-of-war challenge and a volleyball competition added to the day’s festivities, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of community spirit and sportsmanship.

Congratulations to Darling House on the first inter-house competition win and the first points towards to 2024 Stan Payne Cup.

Following the successful event, the Year 5 and 6 swimmers represented Braemar at the Macedon Ranges District Carnival with great enthusiasm. Their stellar performance and team presence earned them recognition, propelling many of them to the next level of competition.

The age champions and record-breaking swimmers were celebrated at the Principal’s Assemblies, highlighting to the community the depth of talent in the College. The Years 7 to 12 swim team wasted no time resting on their laurels, promptly boarding a bus bound for the ICCES carnival at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC). This peak interschool competition for Years 7 to 12 students promised fierce competition in the pool. The MSAC facilities were utilised to their fullest as the badminton, and table tennis teams joined the swimmers for their events.

Despite the challenges posed by the weather and the looming fire ban, the Braemar community showcased resilience and determination across the pool as the fierce competition for the Stan Payne Cup commenced.

Bunjil and Stockdale Trophies

At the recent Commencement Assembly, there was an air of anticipation as a very special presentation was about to unfold, one that would mark a significant moment in the history of the College.

Reflecting back to the College’s inception in 1976, the audience was reminded of the four original houses: Baker, Darling, Harry, and Ward. These houses symbolised some of the founding families of Braemar College. Over two decades ago, Farley and Clyde houses were added, expanding the College’s sense of community and belonging.

In 2021, the College embarked on a new Strategic Plan, aiming to address the challenge of maintaining a close-knit community amidst its growth. After much deliberation, it was decided to introduce Middle School Heads of House, bridging the gap between the Middle and Senior Schools.

The expended opportunities allowed the memory of Thomas Stockdale, a remarkable individual who embodied the spirit of Braemar College, to be honoured. His legacy, characterised by resilience and camaraderie, inspired the creation of the Thomas Stockdale Trophy, symbolising determination and friendship.

Additionally, the Bunjil Trophy, crafted with meticulous detail, paid homage to the majestic Wedge Tail Eagles that grace the skies above Braemar College. This trophy created by the exceptionally talented Mr Dan Flynn and his team, serves as a reminder of the College’s connection to the land and its rich Indigenous heritage.

As the recipients of these inaugural trophies were announced, the unity and spirit of Braemar College shone brightly. The three pillars—Senior School, Middle School, and the future Junior School—each represented by a pillar of the trophy, stood as a testament to the College’s commitment to holistic education and community engagement.

With the unveiling of the Thomas Stockdale and Bunjil Trophies, Braemar College embarked on a new chapter of unity, excellence, and shared purpose, ensuring that its past’s legacy would continue to inspire generations to come.

Year 7 EXEAT Anglesea

Despite being delayed by a day due to the declaration of a TFB, our Year 7 - 2024 cohort headed for Anglesea for some beachside adventure.

The Year 7s are the first of our Exeat programs for the year. The Latin word exeat (“he/she may leave”) is most commonly used to describe a period of absence from a centre of learning. While the physical location for that “centre of learning” may be in the rearview mirror at the start of the program, the experiences do not resemble an absence from learning; in fact, they are the polar opposite.

Our Year 7s engaged in many activities gathering skills or being exposed to different activities, but most importantly, they were mixing with the new forming cohort. This is not always an easy camp for our students. Being away from home and mixing with a group they have only just met could have been a little intimidating. However, our teachers and leaders did a fantastic job of making the experience both enjoyable and memorable.

Arriving home on Friday, the group, although tired, appeared to have had a great time and were more prepared for the year ahead.