Marnebek Newsletter

30th May

Issue 7

Marnebek Week 5 and 6

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Marnebek Week 5 and 6 *

Message from the Principal’s Office

Dear Families,

It has been another action-packed fortnight at our school, with a range of exciting experiences and opportunities for our students to engage, learn, and grow beyond the classroom.

Year 8 Camp to Phillip Island

This week, our Year 8 students enjoyed a fantastic three-day camp to Phillip Island. The camp was full of adventure, teamwork, and new challenges. From the high ropes course to the scenic beach walks and evening activities, students embraced every moment with enthusiasm. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to build independence, strengthen friendships, and create memories that will last a lifetime. A huge thank you to the staff who attended and supported the students throughout the trip.

Prep & Grade 1 Swimming Program

Our Prep & Grade 1 students have been busy splashing, kicking, and learning essential water safety skills as part of their swimming program. It has been wonderful to see their confidence grow in the water, and we are proud of the positive attitude and persistence they’ve shown. Programs like this play an important role in promoting lifelong safety and wellbeing.

AFL Visit from St Kilda Football Club

Excitement was in the air when we welcomed the St Kilda Football Club for a special visit. Students learnt about teamwork, resilience, and the importance of staying active and healthy. The program is running for four weeks, with the final session being at RSEA Park with a player clinic. We thank the club for their time and positive message.

Interschool Cross Country Carnival

Congratulations to the 30 students who represented our school at today’s Interschool Cross Country Carnival. Competing against several other schools, our students showed tremendous determination, sportsmanship, and school pride. Whether placing in the top ranks or simply finishing strong, each student gave their best effort, and we couldn’t be prouder.

Dental Van

A reminder next week Smiles Dentalcare will providing students free teeth checks and providing dental care. If you haven’t already done so, please contact the school office if you would like your child to see the onsite dentist.

As we head into the next few weeks, we encourage all students to continue embracing opportunities and supporting one another. Thank you, as always, to our dedicated staff and supportive families who make all of this possible.

Liam Mara

Campus Principal- Secondary School

Key Dates & Events

Term 2 2025 | Term Dates:

22nd April - 4th July

Important Dates for June & July 2025

2nd - 6th June: Year 2 Swimming
2nd - 6th June: Child Smile Dental Van
2nd - 4th June: Year 7 Surf Camp (Selected Student)
9th June: King’s Birthday Public Holiday
16th June: Term 2 SSG (Student Support Group Meetings)
24th June: Year 7 & 10 Vaccine Session
27th June: Whole School Assembly & Art Showcase
30th June–3rd July: Year 8 Swimming
4th July: Last Day of Term 2, 2pm Finish

Please note: All dates are correct at the time of publishing. Information will be posted on Compass regarding these planned events, nearer to the date.

News from New Holland Drive Campus

Have a look at the Year 7s

Building Confidence, Connection and Independence

What a wonderful term it’s been for our Year 7 students at Marnebek School! They’ve been busy learning, growing, and getting involved in a wide range of programs that support their confidence, independence and wellbeing.

Our focus on Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility continues to guide everything we do. Each day, students take part in short mindfulness activities after recess and lunch to help them settle, reflect, and get ready to learn. We’ve had great success with this routine, and it’s helped students return to the classroom calm and focused.

This term, our Year 7s have loved getting involved in programs like PrePAIR, Coffee Club (where they help serve drinks to staff), Lego Club, Gaming Club, and both Girls’ and Boys’ groups. We’ve also enjoyed exciting excursions to Gumbuya World and Myuna Farm, which were fantastic for team building and fun learning experiences outside the classroom.

Creative activities like Music Therapy, Performing Arts, Dance Group, and one-on-one Cooking sessions have allowed students to express themselves in new ways. They’ve also enjoyed getting active with Basketball, working together in Gardening, and building important social skills during Dog Therapy and Social Work sessions. Some students have also had support from our school psychologist and have spent time in the Engine Room to help with focus and self-regulation.

Finally, many of our students have been working closely with our Allied Health team—including Occupational Therapists, Speech Therapists, and Physiotherapists—to support their personal learning goals.

We’re so proud of everything our Year 7 students have achieved this term. They’ve taken part in so many wonderful opportunities, and we’re excited to keep building on this progress next term.

News from our Specialists

What’s been happening in music

Term 1:
Students built strong foundations in music by learning to share, take turns, and play together using fun djembe games. They explored different cultures by creating music for Chinese New Year, Harmony Week, and playing West African rhythms.

Term 2:
This term, students created relaxing backing tracks, tried drum pad patterns, and played along to Indigenous Australian music. They also explored modern songs on the keyboard, boosting their skills and confidence.

Electives:
In Friday Electives, students had fun experimenting with a range of instruments like djembes, glockenspiels, chimes, and keyboards—expressing themselves creatively and working as a team.

Assembly Performances:
Students wowed the school with songs like Seven Nation Army, Yellow, and 7 Years, showing their talent and teamwork on stage.

Coming Up:
Students will soon be writing and recording their own 'Welcome to Country' music and preparing for a high-energy keyboard performance of Thunderstruck at the final assembly. Rock on, Marnebek!

SWPBS @Marnebek

Celebrating students’ achievements

House Total | Term 2 | Week 5/6

SWPBS Champions | Term 2 | Week 6

Bus awards | Term 2 | Week 6

NDIS Support Services @Marnebek School

We’d like to remind our school community that NDIS Support Services are available to assist parents and carers. If you have any questions about the NDIS or need help accessing support, our friendly NDIS Navigators are here to help. We’re available Monday to Friday, from 8:30am to 4:30pm at both campuses. You’re welcome to visit the school office and ask for a NDIS Navigator, give the school a call, or send us an email: ndisnavigators@marnebek.vic.edu.au.

We're here to support you every step of the way!