To our parents and carers, thank you for ensuring that student laptops were fully charged each morning and that students arrived on time and ready to participate. Your support makes a significant difference to how smoothly these sessions run.

A special thank you to Ms Vanessa Connolly, our Deputy Principal, Dr Lucy Cassar, and all teaching and support staff who assisted in individual classrooms. Your calm attitudes, organisation, flexibility, and willingness to help everyone ensured that students felt supported in every test.

While we experienced a nationwide technical issue on day one, the remainder of the testing window ran smoothly, and our students and staff handled the situation with patience and resilience.

NAPLAN results will be released to families in Term 3, and the school will undertake a detailed analysis of the data once it becomes available. I look forward to sharing our analysis and key insights in a future newsletter.

Looking ahead, families of students who will be in Years 7 and 9 in 2027 may wish to note that NAPLAN will run from 10 to 22 March 2027. We will share more detailed information with you at the beginning of the 2027 school year.

As we head into the holiday period, I would like to wish all families a wonderful Easter and a relaxing break. I look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready for a productive Term 2.

Mr Matthew Edwards

Director of Learning (Year 7 to 9)

Mid-semester reports will be available to families on 2 April. These reports provide an important checkpoint for both students and families to track progress and identify areas of strength and improvement. If there are any concerns, we strongly encourage families to reach out to subject teachers so that we can continue to build strong partnerships that support each student’s learning journey.

It was fantastic to see so many families attend our recent Senior Learning Conversations. These meetings were a great success, providing valuable opportunities for students, parents, and teachers to connect, reflect on progress, and set goals for continued improvement. Thank you for taking the time to engage in these important discussions and for your ongoing support of your child’s learning. We strongly encourage all families to continue this partnership by attending the essential Senior Learning Conversations in Term 3. These meetings will play a critical role in preparing students for their upcoming exams and ensuring they are well supported in achieving their best outcomes.

Recently, our students also participated in study skills sessions delivered by Mr Luke Featherston. These sessions provided practical strategies to help students develop effective study habits, including planning and maintaining homework schedules. It is important to remember that students in Years 10, 11, and 12 will consistently have work to complete outside of the classroom. Establishing strong routines and time management skills is key to their success.

We encourage parents and carers to regularly engage with PAM to:

As we progress through the year, it is essential to regularly check your PAM and emails regularly to stay up to date with communication from subject teachers and Year Level Coordinators. The school has clear processes in place regarding attendance, task completion, and authentication. If any concerns arise, families will be contacted so that we can work together to support your child.

Thank you again for your continued partnership in your child’s education.

Mrs Karen A Hart

Director of Learning (Years 10-12)

To support recovery efforts, our student leaders organised a Bushfire Recovery Fundraiser, with proceeds donated to Blaze Aid to assist communities as they rebuild. The lunchtime event created a vibrant atmosphere across the school, with live music and a range of house activities taking place on the oval, encouraging strong participation and community spirit. We even saw a few Year 7 students gather the courage to perform a song.

We were also pleased to welcome Mark Billing, Sam Simpson, and Lachlan Sutherland from the Larpent CFA, who visited with a fire truck and provided students with the opportunity to try the hoses. This hands-on experience was a highlight for many and helped deepen students’ understanding of the important work carried out by emergency services.

In the afternoon, several of our Year 10 leaders: Bella, Charli, Pippa, Stella, and Lily, delivered slices prepared by students to Kawarren, where Blaze Aid Coordinator Steve Matthews warmly welcomed them. He expressed his sincere gratitude for the contribution, which was greatly appreciated by the volunteers supporting recovery efforts in the region.

A special thank you must also go to our dedicated kitchen team and teaching staff, who consistently go above and beyond to ensure these cook-ups run smoothly. Their support plays a vital role in making initiatives like this possible.

We are proud of the way our school community continues to come together to support those who support us.

Mrs Natalie Holt

Director of Wellbeing

Over the three days, students participated in a wide variety of activities, including canoeing, the giant swing, archery, the leap of faith, and milk crate stacking, as well as several other team-based challenges. These experiences encouraged students to step beyond their comfort zones, develop resilience, and strengthen their confidence while having a great deal of fun.

A true highlight from the camp was the way students demonstrated teamwork, respect, and inclusivity. It was great to see students supporting one another, celebrating successes, and working collaboratively across all activities. The positive attitude and willingness to give everything a go contributed greatly to the success of the camp.

I would like to extend a special thank you to the 14 staff members who attended and supported the camp. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and care ensured that all our students felt safe and encouraged and were able to engage in every aspect of the experience fully.

Overall, the Year 8 Camp at Log Cabin Camp, Creswick, was a resounding success, with plenty of laughter, challenges, and memorable moments shared by all. We look forward to returning to this wonderful camp with our Year 7 students in 2027 for another fantastic experience.

Mr Lachy Bail

Year 8 Coordinator

Over the course of the program, students embraced a wide range of outdoor activities designed to build resilience, confidence, and cooperation. From balancing on stand-up paddleboards to tackling waves during surf kayaking and surfing sessions, students discovered new strengths while learning to persist in the face of unfamiliar challenges. Many also enjoyed the unique experience of horse riding and navigating scenic bushwalking trails, deepening their appreciation for nature and the outdoors.

One of the highlights of the camp was watching students work collaboratively in their cooking groups. With portable camp stoves and limited supplies, teamwork and communication were essential, and our students rose to the occasion, preparing delicious meals together each night. Sleeping in tents for two nights added another layer of adventure, offering an authentic camping experience that encouraged independence and responsibility.

Across every activity, students demonstrated enthusiasm, courage, and a willingness to support one another. It was inspiring to see them step into leadership roles, try new things, and reflect on the personal strengths they discovered along the way.

The Year 10 Adventure Camp was more than just a fun getaway. It was a meaningful opportunity for students to develop resilience, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of themselves. We are incredibly proud of each student for the positive attitude they brought to camp and the way they represented our school community.

We look forward to seeing how these newfound skills and experiences shape their journey throughout Year 10 and beyond.

Ms Sarah Borch

Year 10 Coordinator

This year, we were privileged to welcome keynote speaker Sam McGuane, General Manager of The Brain Cancer Centre and a proud alumnus from the Class of 1998. The theme for the day, “If I could tell myself when I was in Year 10,” offered meaningful and relatable advice, encouraging students to reflect thoughtfully on their future directions.

Following the keynote address, Sam facilitated an engaging Q&A panel featuring industry professionals: Liam McCullagh, Simone Hay, Lochlan Hart and Isabella Mason. The panel shared valuable insights from their career journeys, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities, embracing challenges, committing to lifelong learning, and seeking mentorship and feedback.

Throughout the day, students participated in structured ‘speed dating’-style interviews with representatives from a wide range of local industries. This interactive format enabled students to gain firsthand knowledge of various professions, ask insightful questions, and explore areas such as job satisfaction, qualifications, essential skills, and career pathways.

The day concluded with a student self-reflection session and further exploration of the Morrisby Program, which helps students identify their strengths and future directions.

Information regarding the 2026 Year 10 Work Experience Program was also presented. Students have now received their Work Experience packs and are encouraged to begin sourcing placements. Work Experience will take place during the last week of Term 2, from Monday 22 to Friday 26 June 2026.

The Work Experience Program provides a valuable opportunity for students to:

We extend our sincere thanks to our guest speakers, industry representatives, and the wider community for their ongoing support. Their contribution ensures that Trinity College Colac continues to provide meaningful opportunities that empower our students to pursue their future aspirations with confidence.

We also thank the following organisations for their support:

Mr Ryan Geary

Careers Counsellor

Mrs Julie Demasi

Careers Officer & VET Coordinator

This valuable event provided students with the opportunity to hear from a panel of tertiary representatives, TAFE providers, and independent colleges, who shared insights into pathways beyond Year 12. Students also explored the expo, engaging with exhibitors from Victorian universities, TAFE providers, and independent colleges to support their planning for further study and future careers.

For more information about TIS, please visit: www.tis.org.au/about/

Mr Ryan Geary

Careers Counsellor

Mrs Julie Demasi

Careers Officer & VET Coordinator

The course covered key skills such as grind management, dosing, and milk frothing, giving students hands-on experience throughout the day. These practical skills will support those seeking part-time employment while studying, as well as students considering a future in the hospitality industry. Upon completion, all participants received accredited certificates. Congratulations to our students on developing real-world skills that will support them in their future pathways.

Miss Pamela Scott

Learning Community Leader: Vocational Major & Vocational Pathway

Drawing on his own journey as a writer, Mark spoke candidly about how he developed The Road to Winter , from initial ideas through to publication. Students gained a valuable understanding of character development, world-building, and the discipline required to craft a compelling narrative. His practical tips for creative writing were both accessible and inspiring, encouraging students to take risks and develop their own authorial voice.

In addition to his presentations, Mark generously signed copies of his books, creating a memorable experience for many students.

We are incredibly grateful to Mark for sharing his expertise and enthusiasm, and for helping to bring the study of English to life for our Year 9 cohort. Many thanks to Mrs Jennifer Colbron for organising Mark’s classroom visits.

Mrs Courtney Williamson & Mr Daniel Rodway

Learning Area Leader: English

Tennis Australia Hot Shots Coaching Accreditation- Both VCE VET Sport, Aquatics and Recreation classes attended the practical component of the Hot Shots coaching accreditation run by Aidan and Vanessa from Tennis Australia. The students learnt about the different levels of coaching in junior tennis and how to run and adapt coaching sessions to suit different ability levels.

Life Saving Victoria Beach Safety Program - On a beautiful Friday morning in Torquay, both VCE VET Sport, Aquatics and Recreation classes attended a beach safety course facilitated by Life Saving Victoria. Eden and the life-saving crew from LSV took our students through first aid and CPR, general beach safety, how to spot a rip from the beach and performed some water rescues using everyday items to show the students how anyone can be rescued in an aquatic environment.

Mr Peter Harrington

Teacher

What started you on your musical journey?

As a young kid at school (Year 7 or Form 1 back then), I put my hand up to be the drummer when a group of friends decided to start a band.

What do you love about playing your instrument?

I loved everything about being a drummer. I realised later that the drummer was the driving force behind the band.

Why did you become a tutor?

I was given an opportunity to teach (or tutor, rather) at Lavers Hill School (back in the 80s) through a fellow band member who was teaching guitar in Colac at the local music shop he owned, Colac Sound Centre and School of Music, where I also taught drums.

What do you love about tutoring at Trinity?

At Trinity College, I have again been allowed to teach in a school environment and now have more experience that I can pass on to my students.

If you could attend any music concert anywhere in the world, which one would it be, and where?

Deep Purple was the first band I loved and was influenced by, but I never saw them live, so I would like to see them in Australia, although it is a bit late now.

One fun fact about you?

Going on a Pacific cruise on the ‘ORIANA’ cruise ship on my own!! I was in my early 20s and had a great time despite the seasickness.

We had two age group champions for the day, with terrific performances from Leo (Year 8), who won the 14-year age group, and Leon (Year 9), who won the 15-year age group.

Congratulations to all students who won an individual event or relay and progressed through to the next level.

Huge congratulations to our Greater Western Swimming team that competed on Wednesday, 25 March. Our Boys 14-Year-Old Freestyle Relay team consisting of Nash, Leo, Walker and Ted, achieved an outstanding 2nd-place finish. All students competed exceptionally well, demonstrating great effort, determination, and team spirit throughout the competition. You represented the school with pride and should be very proud of your performances. Well done to all involved!

Thanks to the staff who gave up their PD Day to support our students and assist with the running of the Coastal Championships.

Mrs Jane Hawker

Sports Coordinator