04 July 2025
Newsletter
Issue 6
Discover Lakeside College
In a world that moves fast and often demands more, more achievement, more perfection, more of our time and energy, it’s easy to forget a simple but powerful truth: You are enough.
For our children and teenagers, the pressure to perform socially, academically and personally can be overwhelming. This can often leave our children feeling overwhelmed, confused and wanting for security and peace of mind. Likewise, as parents and caregivers, we often place enormous expectations on ourselves to be everything to everyone. The result? A quiet inner voice that begins to whisper, “I’m not doing enough. I’m not good enough.” Regardless of how much we do, how hard we work and how much we try, these feelings of inadequacy can sit with us for a long time, sometimes, even a life time.
But here’s the truth we want every member of the Lakeside College community to always keep in mind and remember: You are already enough, exactly as you are.
Social media, peer comparisons, school assessments, extracurricular achievements, it’s no wonder our young people (and we as adults) can feel like we’re falling short. The constant pressure to measure up can undermine self-worth and leave us feeling anxious, inadequate or burnt out. The interesting thing about this phenomenon is that regardless of our age, this feeling prevails over time. In my younger years, the pressure from social media was replaced by magazines, TV commercials and images on billboards. Nowadays we are hit with a constant array of unrealistic images and pressures through the use of social media of which there are too many forms to name.
At every age and stage, children absorb messages, sometimes subtly, sometimes loudly; that their value is tied to what they do, not who they are. As a school community, we believe it’s vital to challenge that narrative.
Your child is not defined by their grades, their sporting achievements, or how many friends they have. And you, as a parent, are not defined by your productivity, your career status, or how perfectly you juggle the responsibilities of life. You are enough.
When children feel secure in their worth, they’re more resilient, more engaged and more emotionally balanced. Helping them believe that they are “enough” doesn’t mean we stop encouraging growth, effort or high standards, but it does mean we approach these things from a foundation of acceptance and self-compassion.
Here are some practical ways to nurture this belief in your home:
It’s not just our children who need to hear this message, we do too. Parenting is a complex, emotional journey and there is no such thing as perfect. There will be days when you feel like you’ve nailed it and days when you feel like you’re falling short.
But your love, your presence and your effort matter deeply, even on the tough days - especially on the tough days.
If your child knows they are loved, supported and accepted for who they are, then you are doing something extraordinary. That, in itself, is enough.
As a school, we’re committed to fostering a culture where students, staff and families feel safe to be themselves and where success isn’t just about performance, but about wellbeing, integrity, kindness and connection.
“You are enough” isn’t about lowering the bar, it’s about shifting the focus from endless striving to recognising our inherent value. It’s about knowing that we are all worthy of love, rest, support and belonging, just as we are.
So this week, take a breath. Remind yourself and your child:
You are not behind. You are not lacking. You are enough.
Gracious and loving God,You have created us in Your image,and by Your grace, You have called us beloved children.
In a world that often tells us we are not enough,remind us, O Lord, that in Christ we are fully known and fully loved. Not by our works or achievements, but by Your boundless mercy, we are enough.
Help us to rest in the assurance of Your grace, that our worth is not measured by what we do, but by what You have done for us on the cross. In our weakness, You are strong; in our doubts, You are steadfast.
Grant us peace in the knowledge that You have claimed us and that nothing can separate us from Your love. Let this truth fill our hearts and renew our spirits, so we may live boldly and humbly in Your service.
Thank You, Lord, for being our refuge and our strength, for making us enough through Jesus Christ, our Savior.
Amen.
We kindly ask for your support in ensuring a safe and smooth start and end to each school day. Please take note of the following reminders:
Primary students should not enter school grounds before 8:30am. We’ve noticed some students arriving early, especially with older siblings and heading straight to class. To maintain safety and supervision, all primary students must wait at the school gates until 8:30am.
Playgrounds and the oval are out of bounds before and after school. Even if parents are present, we ask that students do not play in these areas during these times.
Thank you for helping us keep all students safe by following these important guidelines.
Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
Dear Families,
At Lakeside College, we love celebrating the wonderful achievements of our students – both in and out of school!
If your child has recently accomplished something special – whether it's academic, sporting, creative or community-related – we’d love to hear about it. These moments may be featured in our school newsletter and shared with our wider community on our official Facebook page.
To nominate your child for our Student Spotlight, please email details and any relevant photos to marketing@lakeside.vic.edu.au
Let’s continue to support and uplift the amazing talents and efforts of our students together.
If your child is interested in music lessons, we have incredibly talented and professional teachers and opportunities for students to perform throughout the year.
Singing Lessons with Sandra De Reland, flute lessons with Nelle McLean, guitar or drums with Alejandro Aldana Espino and piano with Jess Van Raay.
Please visit the administration office if you’d like to sign up your student for lessons.
If you live more than 4.8 km’s from Lakeside College you may be eligible for a Conveyance Allowance payment from the Department of Education and Training (DET). The purpose of this allowance is to ensure that schools support eligible families to receive financial assistance with the cost of transporting students to and from school.
To be eligible to receive conveyance allowance, a student attending a non-government school must:
• be of school age (between 5 and 18 years);
• reside 4.8 km or more by the shortest practicable route from the school attended; and
• be enrolled at the nearest primary, secondary or specialist school of the same denomination as the school they attend.
The rate of payment is determined by the distance you live from the College, and the mode of transport you use. As an example, if you travel by private car you may be eligible for a payment of $470.00 per annum if you live between 4.8 kms and 10 kms from the College. This payment increases if the distance from the College is greater than 10 kms. For an additional student travelling with the same family, the additional payment is currently $235.00 per annum.
To apply for the conveyance allowance you need to complete the application for Private Car travel attached, or, if you travel by public transport, you need to complete the application for Public Transport attached. If your application is successful we are obliged to pass these payments onto you to assist with your travel costs, but there is an option to apply these to your College fees if you wish.
To apply this payment towards your tuition fees you need to sign the last page of the application (PARENT/GUARDIAN CONSENT FOR SCHOOL TO WITHHOLD CONVEYANCE ALLOWANCE). Otherwise, we will need your bank account details to transfer funds as we receive them.
If you think you may be eligible, please complete the relevant application form and return to the Business Manager, Brian Trumble, by email at brian.trumble@lakeside.vic.edu.au or, return the completed application form to the front desk at the College Reception.
Thank you
Privacy Collection Notice for Parents Address Collection 2025
Dear families,
At Lakeside College, there is nothing more important than the safety and wellbeing of our students. The College places our commitments under the Child Safe Standards at the top of our priorities as a school.
As part of this commitment, our staff regularly undertake training regarding the standard and the actions to be taken to maintain a Child Safe environment.
Our students are also educated so that they know what to do if ever they feel unsafe. To help with this, these two resources are discussed with our students.
Secondary
Primary
It is important that our families are also aware of the part they play in creating a Child Safe environment. All parents volunteering at the College are required to undertake our online volunteer course (which includes Child Safe training).
You may soon notice that our teachers will be guiding our students to offer high fives/fist bumps/handshakes in preference to a hug. While hugging is not a practice that teachers and staff have actively encouraged, in keeping with our obligations and these new standards, we are required to further minimise physical contact with students. There are times when physical contact is appropriate, such as a brief side hug to comfort an extremely distressed child, or holding a child to keep them from danger.
Should any community member have concerns regarding the safety of a child, please act immediately using the details available here: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/parents/safety/Pages/child-protection.aspx
The College has a number of Child Protection Officers who can support community members to make reports as required.
Please don’t hesitate to contact any of the Child Protection officers should you have any questions or concerns.
Student safety
Please ensure that all students cross the road using the crossings outside the administration building and near the Primary oval. Students should only cross at other points with parent supervision.
Parents should not be stopping in the no-standing zones to drop off / wait to pick up their child/ren.
Dogs on Campus
Dogs are not permitted on school grounds.
This is in place for two key reasons:
Allergies: Some students have serious allergic reactions to dogs. Even brief exposure can lead to significant health concerns.
Fear of Dogs: While many dogs are friendly, some individuals, both students and staff, have a genuine fear of them. Their presence may cause unnecessary stress or anxiety.
To ensure the safety and comfort of all, we ask that dogs not be brought onto school property at any time, including during drop-off, pick-up, or school events.
Student birthday celebrations in Primary School
In previous years many Primary families have provided birthday cakes, lolly bags, other food and toys for each child in the class.
We ask parents not to send cake, food, lollies and/or gift bags to school. This policy has been adopted for the following reasons:
Birthdays are an excellent chance to celebrate the uniqueness of every child in our community. In each class, teachers and students acknowledge each student’s birthday in their own fashion. We have made this change to ensure the safety and well-being of all students in our community.
Communication
Families are reminded that their child’s homeroom teacher is the first point of contact for all questions. If you require the contact details of any of your child’s teachers, please consult the College Staff Directory available on Parent Lounge.
Volunteers
The College is blessed by volunteers serving in many roles in order to provide a number of great experiences and support to our students and community.
If you are able to volunteer in any capacity at the College in 2025, please email student.services@lakeside.vic.edu.au and this can be arranged.
Volunteer training
If you are a regular volunteer with the College, please ensure you complete your online training module. Please contact the office and provide a copy of your working with childrens check and training will be assigned.
There are a number of communication tools the College uses to ensure our families are kept in the loop. Please cross check the list below and contact Administration should you require any assistance.
• Parent Lounge - This is our online portal for families and has a wealth of information including the school calendar and important notices. There is a link to the parent portal on the College website https://tass.lakeside.vic.edu.au/parentlounge.
• Facebook - Please like us on Facebook to ensure you see the daily celebration of the great things going on around the campus. Search ‘Lakeside College’ and hit the ‘like’ button.
• Student Spotlight - The College loves sharing student news and success stories. If you would like to see your child featured in our newsletter or on facebook, email marketing@lakeside.vic.edu.au with a photo and details.
Due to the unique location of Lakeside College, we do not have an abundance of parking available on the school grounds. For the safety of College students, staff and families, please observe the following parking guidelines in the attached images and notes.
20 June 2025
Dear Lakeside College Families,
I hope this message finds you well.
As Principal of Lakeside College, I am delighted to share that our College continues to experience strong growth in enrolments and increasing recognition within the community. Our commitment to providing high-quality education and a rich school experience has resulted in unprecedented demand across many year levels.
If you wish to enrol another child at Lakeside College, we strongly recommend submitting an application at least two years in advance of the intended year of entry. As we transition to an early offers process, timely applications are more important than ever. Applications must be received before the published closing dates to be considered in the first round. Applications submitted after these dates may not be prioritised, even for current families, and may be placed on a waiting list.
To manage this growing interest fairly and effectively, we have introduced official closing dates for enrolment applications. This measure is designed to ensure fairness and to ease the application process for all enquiring families. As part of our enrolment policy, we wish to prioritise current families, but we can only do so when:
Applications that do not meet these requirements within the set timeframe may not be prioritised and could be waitlisted.
Sibling Enrolment Priority
If you wish to enrol another child at Lakeside College, please ensure you submit an application at least two years prior to the intended year of entry. As mentioned, we are now operating under an early offers system, and timely applications are critical.Applications received after this timeframe may not be prioritised, even for current families, and may be placed on a waiting list.
Enrolment Application Closing Dates
To ensure a fair and transparent process, the following official closing dates apply:
Applications must be submitted before these dates to be considered in the first round of offers and to avoid placement on a waitlist:
Applicants selected for an interview will be advised via email prior to the interview stage. The email will include a link to book a 30-minute enrolment interview. Offer outcomes will be issued at the end of the interview process, following the completion of a formal assessment.
Year 7, 2027 Enrolments
Due to high demand, we are bringing Year 7, 2027 enrolment interviews forward by six months. If your child currently attends another school and you would like them to begin Year 7 at Lakeside in 2027, please submit a complete online enrolment application, including all required documentation, by the closing date listed above. We anticipate only 25–30 new places will be available for external students.
For Current Lakeside Families – Year 6, 2026 Students
If your child is currently enrolled and continuing their education in Year 6 at Lakeside College in 2026, you do not need to reapply. Their enrolment into secondary school is automatically secured.
Prep, 2027 Enrolments
If your child will turn five by April 30th of the year they start school, please submit your Prep 2027 application as soon as possible. There are 50 Prep places available for the 2027 intake. Applications close on Friday, 27 March 2026.
For students entering in Year Prep, a formal offer of a place in the School may be made, once all required information has been provided, a satisfactory enrolment interview has taken place, and the child meets the requirements of being Prep ready.
a) Prep students should turn 5 by April 30th of the year of entry into the Prep class.
b) All Prep students must demonstrate the following before commencing at the School.
(i) The child can follow directions and act in a manner that maintains their own safety and the safety of others;
(ii) The child can engage in learning activities for an acceptable period of time without support; and
(iii) The child can toilet themselves whilst at school.
c) Should the child be unable to demonstrate Prep readiness, the College will postpone their enrolment to the following year.
Important Reminders - School Connection
If you have any questions or need support with your application, please don’t hesitate to contact our Enrolments Office email: enrolments@lakeside.vic.edu.au We are here to help.
Thank you for your continued support and for being an essential part of the Lakeside College community.
Kind regards,
For any further questions, contact Rebecca McAleese enrolments@lakeside.vic.edu.au
Sibling enrolments will be processed according to the Enrolment Policy and Terms and Conditions.
If families submit the enrolment application for siblings, please indicate that you are a current family on the enrolment application form.
If you have any further questions, please email enrolments@lakeside.vic.edu.au
Kind regards,
Netball
The Year 5/6 girls’ netball team delivered an outstanding performance at the 2025 Winter Lightning Premiership, finishing in a remarkable three-way tie for second place.
Across the day, the team played five games and secured three impressive wins. Their fourth game was a nail-biter, with the girls narrowly going down 24–22 in a hard-fought contest. In their final match, they staged an incredible second-half comeback, showcasing their resilience and team spirit.
The girls played with passion, gave their all in every match, and demonstrated fantastic improvement by applying their coaches’ feedback effectively. A wonderful display of teamwork, determination and growth – well done, girls!
Teresa, Yar & Buk
Year 10 Coaches
Our Year 5/6 Boys Netball team showed amazing skills, teamwork and determination at the Lightning Prem netball tournament. The team performed great and made us proud, finishing second overall.
Throughout the day, the boys won 3 out of their 5 games, drew 1 and lost one match. They stayed strong, determined and used their skills in the game. The boys listened to us coaches throughout the tournament and consistently applied feedback and coaching points into their game.
Their sportsmanship, positive attitude and teamwork were very good to see and they should all be proud of how they played.
We want to say a big congratulations to all the players and thank you for coming to our sessions with a smile, a growth mindset and continuing to be patient and respectful to us.
Well done!!
Stella and Mia
Year 10 Coaches
Teeball
During the Winter Lightning Premiership on 13 June, our team competed against Pakenham Springs and Pakenham Hills.
While we narrowly lost to Pakenham Hills, we secured a solid win against Pakenham Springs, finishing second on the ladder with one win and one loss.
Although this result meant we didn’t progress to the finals, our students remained upbeat and demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and determination throughout the day. Their positive attitude and strong effort were commendable and reflected the true spirit of school sport.
Japnoor, Seth, Michael, Kyngston & Marley
Year 10 Coaches
AFL
We had a fantastic term coaching the Year 5s and 6s AFL team and having the opportunity to coach the best group of kids. At the start of the term, almost all the kids were new to the sport, but that didn't stop them; they were all willing to give it a go, showing us, as their coaches, their determination to be good at the sport.
As the term progressed, so did the kids.
Their teamwork and communication were outstanding—everyone worked well together which greatly contributed to building strong team-based skills.
On the day of lighting prem, the kids were mostly nervous but very excited to get out there. They had demonstrated many skills, plays and strategies that the coaches had told them, but unfortunately, they lost their first two games, kicking no goals but scoring a few points.
Showing us that regardless of winning or losing they where here to give it a go and make the best of their day in our other games coming the kids were able to kick a few goals in their games but ultimately it was not enough but that never ruined the kids or the coaches spirits everyone enjoyed themselves and had a fun day.
Liv, Dakota & Lily
Year 10 Coaches
Soccer
Our Lakeside College boys’ soccer team showcased outstanding skill, sportsmanship and determination at this year’s Soccer Lightning Premiership. Competing against a strong field of schools, our team finished an impressive third overall.
Throughout the day, the boys remained undefeated, recording two solid wins and four closely contested draws. They opened the day with a fantastic 1-0 win over Pakenham Springs, followed by a tense 0-0 draw against Pakenham Hills. A tight 0-0 result against Pakenham Primary and a convincing 4-1 victory over Nar Nar Goon demonstrated the team's defensive strength and goal-scoring ability. The boys finished with another 1-1 draw against Pakenham Primary and a final 0-0 draw against Cairo.
Despite narrowly missing out on first place by just two goals on goal difference, the team should be extremely proud of their efforts. They played with heart and resilience, and their teamwork stood out throughout the day.
Congratulations to all players involved!
Gurshabad & Zac
Year 10 Coaches
Over the past three weeks, our Year 5/6 students have had the exciting opportunity to participate in a special karate incursion, led by experienced coaches James and Fill from the Australian Shukokai Karate Association.
Held during group sport, the sessions introduced students to the fundamentals of karate, focusing not only on physical techniques but also on the development of essential defensive life skills. The program emphasized self-awareness, confidence, discipline and respect—key values at the heart of martial arts.
Coaches James and Fill created a fun and supportive learning environment where every student was encouraged to challenge themselves, try something new and learn how to stay safe in different situations. Through hands-on practice and interactive discussions, students explored strategies for staying calm under pressure, setting boundaries and using their voices confidently.
This incursion has not only been one of the highlights of the sporting term, but also a valuable learning experience that students will carry with them beyond the classroom. A big thank you to the Australian Shukokai Karate Association and to Coaches James and Fill, for sharing their knowledge and passion with our students.
Mrs Elisha Langdon
Spoty Teacher
What a day for Lakeside at the Inter-school Soccer Tournament held on Monday, 16th June! The Year 8 inter-school soccer tournament brought energy, excitement and some unforgettable moments — especially with an all-Lakeside girls’ final!
Congratulations to both girls’ teams for their amazing performance and sportsmanship. It was a closely contested match that showed the strength and depth of talent at Lakeside.
Our winning girls’ team will now go on to represent us at the Regional Tournament and we wish you the very best as you take on the next challenge!
Let’s also give a big round of applause to our Year 8 boys’ team, who faced some tough competition but played with heart and determination. You gave it your all and represented Lakeside with pride — well done!
A special thank you to Mr K, Ms Gross, our Year 10 coaches and also Dylan in Year 9 for capturing the highlights of the day — your photos truly brought the tournament to life.
Proud to be Lakeside!
On Tuesday 25th June, nine dedicated secondary students braved the icy conditions to represent our school at the Southern Metro Regional Cross-Country, held at Ballam Park. With relentless rain and chilly winds making for a very wet and cold day, it was a true test of endurance and determination.
Despite the tough weather and challenging course, all students gave their absolute best and ran with great spirit and resilience. While none of our runners managed to qualify for the next round, their commitment to representing the school with pride and positivity was truly commendable.
We congratulate all participants on their efforts and thank them for showcasing our school’s values through sport.
Lakeside Students RISE Up
As part of our endeavours to acknowledge and highlight positive behaviour, we present RISE Awards at Flag Assembly each Monday. RISE is an acronym for Resilience, Integrity, Service and Empathy. Each teacher identifies one student who has made a concerted effort to display the attribute of the week. This might be someone who exemplifies it readily, or it might be given to someone who has worked hard to really improve themselves in that area. These are our key character traits for the Primary School which help to reinforce our school behaviour expectations.
R - Resilience
I - Integrity
S - Service
E - Empathy
Parents are welcome to attend our Flag Assemblies, held on the Primary basketball court.
It is my great pleasure to announce that the following children recently received awards:
| Resilience | Integrity | Integrity |
| Week 9 | Week 10 | Week 11 |
| Prismpreet K | Meransh K | Diing A |
| Zoey G | Arman G | Dikanna C |
| Elyan J | Zora J | Lolita F |
| Aarav P | Gurnimrat S | Rian C |
| Audrey B | Okindu J | Ryan S |
| Avitaz S | Smera M | Abra K |
| Jaxson B | Mellina K | Komya C |
| Blaise D | Logan M | Sharon Z T |
| Mia M | Isaac S | Anhad G |
| Ivy M | Maycie D | Nyala P |
| Saihj D | Tial C | |
| Leo X | Mariam G | |
| Nadev K | ||
| Tobias R |
Our Prep students recently enjoyed their very first school excursion with a magical visit to the Museum of Play and Art (MoPA) in Sandringham. Excitement buzzed through the air as the children boarded the bus, ready for a day full of exploration and fun.
MoPA provided a sensory-rich, immersive environment that brought learning to life in the most engaging way. The children were captivated by the colourful, interactive exhibits, where they could touch, move and experiment freely. From creative art-making stations to building zones and light displays, every space was designed to spark imagination and encourage hands-on discovery.
Play-based learning was at the heart of the day. Children worked together to build structures, solve puzzles and explore cause-and-effect through movement and play. They developed important social, cognitive and motor skills—all while having an incredible amount of fun!
A highlight of the excursion was story time in MoPA’s cosy reading nook. Surrounded by soft lighting and plush seating, the children were transported into imaginative worlds through engaging stories read aloud by MoPA staff. The calm, nurturing environment allowed for a quiet moment of reflection and listening.
Some Prep comments:
This excursion was not only a joyful day out, but also a meaningful extension of our learning in the classroom. It supported creativity, collaboration and curiosity—core foundations of early education. We’re so proud of how confidently our Preps approached their first school outing and can’t wait for the next adventure!
Year 4 students have been deeply engaged in their Project-Based Learning (PBL) unit titled "Sharing Joy", and we’re thrilled to share their progress with you.
Students have been busy researching their special person, planning meaningful gifts and exploring how to bring joy through thoughtful design.
As part of the creative process, they have been:
This unit has not only strengthened academic skills but also built empathy, gratitude and creativity.
Thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement throughout this project.
In the final week of Term 2, students from Years 3–12 participated in the ALWS Walk My Way fundraiser, held on July 1st, 2nd and 4th. This special event was an opportunity for our school community to live out our core values of Service, Compassion, Love and Excellence and was organised by our Year 5 students as part of their Project-Based Learning unit.
Students from Years 3 to 12 walked laps around the lake, with distances adjusted for each year level. Meanwhile, our Prep to Year 2 students completed a shorter, supervised walk within the school grounds, supported by Year 5 student mentors. The event helped students of all ages understand the power of walking with purpose and unity.
Through this initiative, our school raised funds for Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS), helping provide access to education for children living in poverty around the world. Each student was invited to bring a gold coin donation and many embraced the opportunity to contribute to a cause bigger than themselves.
A special shout out goes to Youssef in Year 5A who wrote a letter to the Pakenham MP Emma Vulin. Emma forwarded Youssef’s letter onto the Prime Minister and donated $260 to the Walk My Way fundraiser.
Walk My Way was more than just a fundraiser—it was a heartfelt demonstration of compassion in action. We are proud of the way our students walked with intention and purpose and we thank our families for their support in making this event such a success.
Mr Andrew Cavalin
Year 5 Homeroom Teacher
This term, the Upper Primary cohort participated in a comprehensive full-day Aspire Higher Leadership Workshop. Facilitated by the experienced team at Unleashing Personal Potential, this workshop delivered an engaging and interactive experience designed to unite our senior students in fostering a positive school community.
The workshop was structured into three focused sessions, each drawing upon the foundational acronym A.S.P.I.R.E:
A - Take Action to have a go
S - Serve, be kind and give others a go
P - Persist through struggles and setbacks
I - Influence others and set the example
R - Respect for people, groups and equipment
E - Encourage each other
The three workshop sessions focused on the following key areas:
Leading With or Without the Badge: Students explored the meaning of leadership by example, examining how to lead through influence and kindness regardless of formal titles or positions.
The EPIC Race: This fast-paced, engaging team challenge required all students to actively encourage and support one another, celebrating collective effort and achievement.
Knowing Me, Growing Me: This final session provided students with the opportunity to develop deeper self-awareness by identifying their strengths and learning to recognise and appreciate the diverse strengths of their peers.
All participants concluded the day with renewed energy and enthusiasm to lead by example, serve as positive role models and aspire to reach their full potential within our school community.
We are excited to announce the launch of the Victorian Premiers Reading Challenge on Monday, 24th March, and will run until 30th August this year. This initiative aims to foster a love of reading among children and students, encouraging them to engage with a variety of books throughout the year.
Since its inception in 2005, the Victorian Premiers Reading Challenge has seen over 4.5 million students participate and collectively read more than 63 million books. It is a wonderful opportunity for your child to not only enhance their literacy skills but also to discover the joy and wonder that comes from reading.
The Challenge is designed to cater to the varying reading stages of our students. For children in Prep to Year 2, the goal is to read or 'experience' 30 books alongside their parents and teachers. Students from Year 3 to Year 10 are challenged to read a total of 15 books. To participate, students can either read independently or share the reading experience with a family member or educator. Once a book has been read, you can log into your account to record your child's progress.
In the coming week, we will be sending individual logins to each family, allowing you and your child to track their reading journey. We strongly encourage all families to involve themselves in this initiative, as it not only helps in developing reading skills but also builds a supportive culture around literature within our school community.
Thank you for your continued support in promoting literacy and encouraging a life-long love of reading in our students. Should you have any questions regarding the Victorian Premiers Reading Challenge, please feel free to reach out to your Classroom teacher/English Teacher.
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we end another busy and productive semester, it’s a great time to reflect on the achievements, growth and experiences that have shaped the past few months here at Lakeside College.
Highlights of the latter half of this term have included our Winter Soiree, Inter-school table tennis and our Year 9 camp to Cairns.
In the final weeks of this term, teaching and learning have remained the central focus for us, with our wonderful staff continuing to deliver engaging, high-quality programs that support student success.
Our Year 7-11 students recently completed Semester 1 exams, a first for our Middle school students. We wish to congratulate them on the academic progress and growth they have demonstrated in their exams, assessments and projects. Our teachers have also continued to support all students in areas of social and personal development, supporting our learners to build levels of resilience and protective measures that address all key areas of their health and wellbeing needs.
As we head into the school holidays, we encourage our students to take some well-deserved time to rest, recharge and reflect on all that we have been blessed to experience this Semester. For our Year 12 students, the break can also be an opportunity to consolidate learning and prepare for the challenges of the next term, as their academic school year is drawing to a close.
We wish all families a safe and relaxing holiday and look forward to an exciting Semester 2 full of new opportunities and continued success.
Yours sincerely,
Our Year 9 students left bright and early Sunday morning for their exciting adventure in Cairns and what a fun-filled first day they had!
After landing, they headed straight to the Cairns Aquarium where they were treated to an incredible variety of ocean life — hopefully just a sneak peek of what’s to come at the reef on Tuesday!
Students and teachers have settled into a stunning resort that’s all about comfort and relaxation for the week ahead. With sunny skies and a balmy 25 degrees, they capped off the day with a refreshing swim in the beautiful lagoon pool.
Year 9 had an action-packed day 2 exploring the best of Far North Queensland!
First stop: Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, where they braved a lagoon boat cruise and watched crocodiles leap out of the water for a feed – an unforgettable sight!
They then cruised along the stunning Northern Beaches to the Daintree Discovery Centre, and explored the rainforest from both above and below the canopy – a magical experience in one of the world’s oldest rainforests.
To finish off the day, they treated themselves at the Daintree Ice Cream Company, sampling unique and delicious flavours.
An amazing day of wildlife, nature, and sweet treats – Year 9 are making memories to last a lifetime!
While Melbourne braved the cold and rain, our Year 9 camp cohort was soaking up sunshine and reef vibes in Far North Queensland!
Spirits were high as students set off on their Great Barrier Reef adventure. With a reserved space on the top deck, they were treated to breathtaking views during the 1.5-hour journey to the Moore Reef Pontoon.
And the pontoon didn’t disappoint! Students jumped straight into an exciting range of activities, including:
🐠 Snorkelling
🚤 Glass-bottom boat rides
🛝 A fun water slide
🔭 An underwater viewing platform
🔬 A guided Marine Biology snorkelling expedition
Our students made the most of every moment and represented our school with pride.
To top it all off, everyone enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch on the pontoon — the perfect way to recharge after a big morning of adventure.
What a truly memorable day!
What a stunning day for our Year 9s, with sunshine and a perfect 25°C setting the scene for an unforgettable experience on Fitzroy Island!
Students spent the day with Marine Biologists, diving deep into the wonders of the reef.
Activities included:
🐢 A visit to the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre
🛶 A fascinating glass bottom boat tour
🌿 Learning about the indigenous culture of the reef and Fitzroy Island
🌊 Exploring how experts are working to protect the reef from cyclone damage
There was also time for snorkelling, swimming and enjoying the beautiful island surroundings.
To cap off the day, students headed into Cairns Night Market for dinner and some souvenir shopping.
A long and busy day, but truly a memorable one!
What an amazing way for our Year 9s to wrap up their camp!
They started their day on Thursday with a scenic train ride to Kuranda, taking in the spectacular views of the rainforest and waterfalls. Once they arrived, students visited the Rainforest action Nature Park, where they enjoyed an Indigenous dance show. Special shout outs to Emily, Rai and Jai, who bravely volunteered to join in the performance!
Students also had the chance to learn how a didgeridoo is made and played including the meanings behind the different sounds. They also tried their hand at spear throwing and had a go at throwing a boomerang!
Lunch was an incredible Aussie BBQ buffet, complete with a wide range of salads, veggies, meats, vegetarian curry, rice and noodles—something for everyone!
The day ended with a breathtaking Skyrail ride back down the mountain, giving us one last look at the stunning rainforest canopy.
Today, our Year 9s say goodbye to the beautiful Cairns sunshine and return to a wintery Melbourne, just in time to start the Term 2 holidays.
A huge thank you to all our dedicated staff for ensuring every student was safe, supported, and had the opportunity to make unforgettable memories.
Enjoy your well deserved break!
Victorian Premier’s reading Challenge
The challenge is on! Lakeside College is proud to participate in this year's Premiers' Reading Challenge, encouraging all Prep to Year 10 students to read as many books as possible between now and August 30th.
Primary school families should have already received login details, while secondary students will be assisted with logging in during their upcoming library sessions.
How to Access the Challenge
Students can log in through the Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge portal to track their reading progress and discover new books. VPRC Login Page Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge
Reading Resources
Need books during the school holidays? Here are some convenient options:
Let's make this our biggest reading year yet! Happy reading, Lakeside families!
Here are the links to our libraries and online resources:
Lakeside College Library (students) Use your college email credentials
Lakeside College Library (guest)
Username: firstname.lastname
Password (P-3): lakeside
Password (4-10): library1
Username: lakeside3810
Password: lakeside3810
Local Library Links
A two-day day rehearsal time is scheduled on the following dates and times:
DAY1 - Thursday 10th July
Leads/dancers: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
Full ensemble from 12:00PM - 3:00PM
DAY2 - Friday 11th July
Full ensemble: 9:00AM - 3:00PM
Bring healthy snacks, waterbottles and something to do in any downtime, like homework or a book.
Lunch provided on Friday, but you'll need to provide your own HEALTHY lunch on Thursday.
We understand some people may not be available, but this must be communicated by 3rd July to performingarts@lakeside.vic.edu.au
All rehearsals are held on Thursday afternoons from 3.15-5pm for the whole cast, and some main characters and/or dancers may be needed on Friday.
Main Characters will be made aware the Thursday prior if they are required for Friday's session.
The schedule has been uploaded to the performing arts google classroom and can be accessed with each student's login.
All rehearsals are held in the middle school building or the senior music classrooms.
After rehearsals, students will be escorted out the front of the school and will be allowed to leave from here if we have parent permission, and otherwise will be supervised until a parent collects them.
Please email the performing arts email if you have concerns or your child can no longer make a rehearsal.
Thank you so much for your support and creativity!
Congratulation to our lead roles:
Cat in the Hat: Ashley V
Horton the Elephant: Josh S
Jojo: Yousseff B
Gertrude McFuzz: Emily S
Mayzie La Bird: Jacinth S
Mr Mayor: Jasper F
Mrs Mayor: Par H
Wickersham Monkeys: Marli B, Logan B, Joel S, Ashton P, Amelia Z
Bird Girls: Giselle B, Indy F, Keth M, Caitlin C
All other cast members are either Jungle Citizens or Who Citizens and are involved in lots of songs and dances.
Location:
Cardinia Cultural Centre
Dates:
Thursday 11th Sep @ 7pm
Friday 12th Sep @ 7pm
Saturday 13th Sep @ 11am
We're thrilled to celebrate Austin, who has been selected by Playmaker Tours AUS to represent and play basketball in the USA this July 2025!
After months of commitment with an Intense training program this opportunity gives young athletes opportunities to build connections, memories and life skills that will last them a lifetime
Austin is now gearing up to make his international debut. He’ll hit the court in Los Angeles (July 5–6) for his first tournament, before heading to Las Vegas for two more exciting competitions.
His dedication, grit and passion for the game are truly inspiring. His journey is a shining example of where hard work can lead.
We can't wait to hear all about his experiences and achievements when he returns in Term 3—and we look forward to sharing them with our community!
Congratulations Aussie – we're so proud of you!
We were honoured to welcome Emma Voulin’s assistant to the College to personally deliver a remarkable letter to Youssef, Year 5 — printed on Emma’s exclusive gold letterhead, reserved only for the most significant occasions.
This heartfelt response was prompted by a powerful and eloquent letter Youssef wrote to Emma, advocating for the rights and dignity of refugees. She was so deeply moved that she not only responded with a personal message but also contacted the Prime Minister’s Office to share Youssef’s letter who were equally impressed and have formally requested a copy of his letter for their review.
What an exceptional young man we have at the College!
We are incredibly proud of his compassion and commitment to making a difference.
We’re incredibly proud to shine a light on Katie, Year 5, for her inspiring acts of kindness and community service.
Katie generously gives her time to support The Bless Collective, helping serve meals to those in need at Pakenham Hall on Thursday nights and sometimes at Pakenham Train Station on Tuesdays.
From serving food, to playing with the children who attend and helping with the cleanup —Katie brings joy, care and compassion to every task.
Her actions are a beautiful reflection of the values we cherish at Lakeside College—kindness, respect and a heart for others.
If you’d like to learn more or get involved, visit 👉 https://bless.org.au
Thank you, Katie, for making a difference and being a shining example in our community. We’re so proud of you!
A big congratulations to Harlan, who recently played his 50th game of AFL with Officer Kangaroos!
Reaching this milestone is a fantastic achievement and a testament to Harlan’s dedication, teamwork and love for the game.
Well done, Harlan — we’re proud of your commitment and can’t wait to see what’s next in your footy journey!
Since Lakeside College’s establishment in 2006, a body that would unite, connect, and support graduates after their final year of schooling did not exist. Late last year, a discussion arose around the need to fill this gap, to complete the Lakeside College community and network. It was decided that Lakeside College was finally going to have an equivalent entity as what was mentioned before, known as: the Lakeside College Alumni Organisation (LCAO). Alongside the formation of the LCAO, three Alumni Coordinators were also appointed: Elijah Vanderputt, Tanisha Mishra and myself, all of whom are also members of the graduating class of 2024. As the founding Alumni Coordinators of the LCAO, we wish to build the organisation into a strong and robust part of the broader Lakeside College community.
This article serves to explain why the LCAO has been founded and some of things to expect from us in our inaugural year.
Alumni associations have been a core part of educational bodies for the last 200 or so years. Although the location and size of each association may differ from one another, they were all founded with the same goals in mind:
Aligned with other alumni organisations, the LCAO was established with these same objectives.
As Alumni Coordinators we wish to see the LCAO thrive and become an active part of a Lakeside College graduate’s identity. We aim to reach these goals by hosting a range of events throughout the year, as well as, including an interview with a Lakeside College alumni in every new edition of the college newsletter.
Additionally, we always strive to promote the many successes and achievements of the college’s alumni, giving credit where it is due for the excellent educational, emotional, and social foundation on which we have begun our adult lives and will continue to carry with us as lifelong learners.
Although as Alumni Coordinators we differ in our aspirations in life and our further educational pathways, we represent the diverse make up of the
alumni body and the way in which our alma mater has set us up for success.
Elijah Vanderputt is currently a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) student at Monash University. Tanisha Mishra is studying a Bachelor of Information Technology, majoring in Cybersecurity at RMIT. She was also one of the College Captains in 2024. I am completing a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Commerce at Monash University. I also had the privilege of serving as co-captain with Tanisha last year.
We can only extend our gratitude to Lakeside College and the amazing teaching staff that assisted us in reaching our goals and entering into these highly competitive courses. We also hope that we will be able to expose more of our university lives and the way in which our Lakeside education has shaped us to be the people we are today.
Elijah, Tanisha, and I eagerly look forward to the future of the LCAO and the lasting impact we can make by giving back to this community. We are committed to achieving the organisation’s goals, helping others reconnect with cherished memories of the past, and fostering new connections for the future.
Written by Jeremy Spataru
Exciting Upcoming PTFA Events!
We are thrilled to announce a series of fun and engaging events hosted by the PTFA! It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow parents, teachers and students while supporting our school community. Mark your calendars and get ready to join us for these awesome events!
📅 Saturday 16th August: 80s Trivia Night
Test your knowledge and join us for a fun-filled Trivia Night! There’ll be great prizes, good company, and lots of laughs. A huge thank you to Aaron Westny from Ray White Pakenham for generously sponsoring this event and Terry from Terry’s Pakenham Discounts for hosting this event.
Location:
Secondary Middle School Building
Lakeside College, 2 Portobello Rd, Pakenham
Time:
Doors Open: 6:30 PM
Trivia Starts: 7:00 PM
Ends: 10:00 PM
Cost:
Tickets: $15 per person / $100 for a table of 10
Buy via Spriggy by Friday 15th August, 9:00 AM(Tickets may be available at the door unless sold out)
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Please be advised of the following updates to the PTFA second-hand uniform shop consignment policy in line with the college’s sport uniform changes communicated November 2023.
From the end of Term 4 2024, the second-hand uniform shop will cease accepting discontinued colour/style primary and secondary sport uniforms to be sold on consignment, due to the current stock level of these consignment items.
Families are welcomed to submit good condition unneeded discontinued items to the Collection Bin, located out the front of the uniform shop.
Please note, the second-hand uniform shop continues to accept and sell good condition ‘bone/cream’ colour shirts on consignment. These items are not discontinued and remain approved formal uniform.
For all second-hand uniform enquiries please contact uniformsptfa@lakeside.vic.edu.au
Thank you! Have a great day!
TERM 3, 2025 – Opening Hours:
Mondays 8:30am – 9:30am
Wednesdays 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Summer Uniform with Hats to be worn in Terms 1 and 4
College sports socks are required as part of sports uniform, plain white socks with no logo visible can only be worn if PSW are out of stock.
If you wish to place uniform item/s on consignment to sell in the Second hand Uniform Shop you will be required to complete a Second hand uniform lodgement form. You can request this form by sending an email to: uniformsptfa@lakeside.vic.edu.au
Copies are also available from Administration office. Terms and conditions of sale are outlined on the form.
Enclose the form with the uniform item/s in a bag and drop off to the Administration office. The item/s will then be processed, placed on consignment and you will be notified by telephone when the item/s have sold. Money from the sales can be collected from the Administration office or put towards your fees.
If you have any questions, have ideas to share or would like to get involved in the PTFA please send an email to secretaryptfa@lakeside.vic.edu.au and a PTFA member will get back in contact with you.
We are excited to join you on a journey of fun and learning, supporting your child with enriching experiences that Guide their Growth.
Discover Your OSHC Before and After School Care with carefully curated programs that are tailored to the interests of your child that enrich their learning and enhance their school days.
Our Rocketeers Extraordinary Holiday Adventure (Vacation Care) will take your child on an extraordinary journey during the school holidays with over 250 showcase experiences that include team sports and challenges, creative exploration, outdoor excursions and more!
Register your child for free with us today to get started!
About Camp Australia
Here at Camp Australia, children are at the heart of everything we do. We understand that parents are often juggling multiple things in life, and we want to take the pressure off when it comes to caring for your children. Fostering a safe, inclusive environment, Your OSHC encourages each child to have fun and grow with their peers through enriching and engaging experiences.
Your OSHC Before and After School Care
From Before and After School Care to Pupil Free Day programs, every activity is tailored to the interests and needs of the children in our services. Every week is different and in any one week, children could be participating in science experiments, active play, creative expression and more! We also provide nutritious breakfast options as well as delicious afternoon snacks with a variety of fresh, seasonal ingredients that also meet the dietary requirements of our children.
For more information on fees, session times and the map of your service, click below.
Rocketeers Extraordinary Holiday Adventures (Vacation Care)
With over 250 locations around the country, you're sure to find a Rocketeers service near you! Offering extraordinary adventures during the school holidays, you can book your child into any school in any program, meaning your child doesn't need to be attending a particular school to attend our program.Let your child learn something new, make new friends and have fun through hundreds of unique experiences! You'll discover various activities that involve fun team challenges, outdoor excursions, arts & crafts, cooking, coding and many more.
Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
The Australian government provides assistance to eligible families with the cost of approved childcare. The CCS helps to reduce the fees you pay, before you are billed. This means more money in your pocket, whilst your child enjoys the variety of experiences we provide through Your OSHC and Rocketeers. For more information, please visit the CCS page on our website.
To register your interest for before or after school care, please click here: OSHC Parent Portal
Lakeside College is proud to be in partnership with a number of family and community businesses.
 | A+ School Hair Accessories Specialising in school hair accessories. |
 | Asagai Gifts & Home Decor Specialising in refurbished hardwood and other timber to make beautiful inspirational signs for your home or celebrations 0415 423 620 |
 | As Builts Victoria Pty Ltd Operations and Maintenance Manuals for the Construction Industry |
 | BMB Beauty Lash extensions, lift, tint and wax |
 | Hummingbird and Tate Customised gifts for all Occasions https://www.facebook.com/hummingbirdtate/?ref=page_internal https://instagram.com/hummingbirdandtate?utm_medium=copy_link |
 | Hanks Painting & Decorating Specialising in all your painting needs, interior and exterior painting, plaster repair, garage floors and much more. Contact Hank on 0409 561 992 or Garrod on 0447 267 868 hankspainting@outlook.com |
 | I on Nutrition Individualized nutrition therapy for gut health, fertility, and pregnancy. |
 | Jasmine Support Services Providing personalised NDIS support coordination and support worker services with a focus on compassionate care and engaging experiences. School holiday programs also available. 0413 186 856 |
 | Lakeside Scout Group Scouting encourages children to lead from as young as five years old. |
 | Moore Cookies Sugar cookies with fondant icing |
 | Physiokinetic Mr Kay Kim Physiotherapist Lakeside Square Medical Centre |
 | Pie and Mighty Delicious pies, cakes and coffee https://www.facebook.com/Pie-and-Mighty-Pakenham-VIC-192938164068565 |
 | Sew Much Love Specialising in school uniform alterations, school hair accessories and quality hand made children clothing. |
 | Shay-Zaam Cleaning & Home Maintenance Services Offers a range of domestic and commercial cleaning services, Also offers gardening services, maintenance, rubbish removal, gutter cleaning, window cleaning, small demolition, yard tidy ups. |
 | Sign and Print Solutions For all your Signage and printing need, neon signs, LED signs, acrylic signs, aluminium signs, banners, office rebranding, new factory/ business signage, Light boxes, Billboards, shop fit outs, office re branding, printing, vehicle decals + more |
 | Pakenham Mechanical Automotive Repairs, Automotive Services and Roadworthy Inspections |
 | Christina’s Personalised Gifts Mrs Christina Christofides Personalised gift creation |
Officer – School Holiday Program
Dates: Friday, July 11th
Venue: Officer Recreation Reserve, Officer (Robert Porter Recreation Reserve)
Time: 9am-3pm
NAB AFL Auskick 4-7 in this calendar year
NAB AFL Superkick 8-12 in this calendar year
Cost: $55
Registration: play.afl/school-holiday-programs!
Hansel & Gretel – A Magical School Holiday Experience!
Presented by Upstage Theatre Company and Cardinia Cultural Centre
Cardinia, VIC – Upstage Theatre Company, in collaboration with the Cardinia Cultural Centre, is delighted to announce a brand-new modern pantomime adaptation of Hansel & Gretel, penned by playwright Scott J. Hili. This exciting production is part of a two-week school holiday program designed to inspire and engage young performers and theatre enthusiasts, offering an unforgettable blend of learning, creativity, and live performance.
Running during the July school holidays, this exclusive program provides participants 8. – 16 years of age with the unique opportunity to work alongside experienced theatre professionals to develop their skills in acting, singing, and stagecraft. The program is structured to nurture young talent and foster a deep appreciation for the performing arts. Under the expert direction of Nick Sherridan, young performers will bring the beloved tale of Hansel & Gretel to life in a fresh, engaging, and interactive production, filled with humour, music, and enchanting storytelling.
“We are so excited to offer this unique opportunity for young people to immerse themselves in the magic of theatre,” said Scott J. Hili, Executive Producer and Committee Member at Upstage Theatre Company. “Not only will they learn valuable performance skills, but they’ll also gain confidence, make new friends, and take part in an unforgettable live theatre experience.”
· Comprehensive Training: Participants will receive training in acting, singing, choreography, and stagecraft from industry professionals.
· Creative Expression: The program encourages creative expression and helps young artists explore their potential in a supportive environment.
· Live Performances: The program will culminate in live performances at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, where family, friends, and the wider community will be invited to experience the magic of this reimagined fairy tale on stage.
· Limited Availability: With only 50 places available, early bookings are essential to secure participation in this highly sought-after program.
Bookings for the Hansel & Gretel school holiday program will open on April 16, 2025. Parents and guardians are encouraged to secure spots early to ensure their children don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity.
· What: Hansel & Gretel – A Modern Pantomime & School Holiday Program
· When: July School Holidays 2025
· Where: Cardinia Cultural Centre
· Directed by: Nick Sherridan
· Musical Direction by: Tim Bland
· Choreographed by: Sarah Cullen
· Written by: Scott J. Hili
· Bookings Open: April 15, 2025
Join us for an adventure into the enchanted forest and experience the magic of live theatre! This modern take on the classic fairy tale of Hansel & Gretel promises to captivate audiences of all ages with its innovative storytelling and captivating performances.
For more information or to express interest, please visit https://www.upstagetheatrecompany.com/hansel-gretel or contact us at info@upstagetheatrecompany.com