Music is more than just a form of entertainment, it’s a powerful educational tool that enriches the lives of students in profound ways. From early childhood through secondary school, music fosters cognitive development, emotional intelligence, and social skills, making it an essential component of a well-rounded education.

One of the most significant benefits of music is its impact on brain development. Studies have shown that students who engage in musical activities often perform better in subjects like mathematics and reading. This is because music enhances memory, attention, and pattern recognition -skills that are transferable across academic disciplines.

Beyond academics, music nurtures emotional well-being. It provides students with a creative outlet to express feelings, manage stress, and build self-confidence. Whether singing in a choir or playing an instrument, students learn to channel their emotions constructively, which contributes to a healthier school environment.

Music also promotes collaboration and discipline. Ensemble work teaches students to listen actively, cooperate with peers, and respect diverse perspectives. The commitment required to practice and perform cultivates perseverance and time management. These are traits that are invaluable in both school and life.

In schools where music is prioritised, students often report a stronger sense of belonging and engagement. Music connects individuals across backgrounds and cultures, fostering inclusivity and community spirit.

Over the past week, we’ve witnessed the incredible achievements of our Performing Arts Faculty through the outstanding production of Into the Woods. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mrs Melinda Slade for her leadership in bringing this musical to life. Her efforts were strongly supported by Mr Liam Allars, Ms Annette Yates, and Mrs Julie Gillett, whose contributions were invaluable.

Our secondary students truly shone on stage, showcasing not only remarkable dramatic and musical talent but also a deep sense of teamwork and collaboration. Their dedication and passion were evident in every performance.

We encourage all students to explore opportunities in music and the performing arts. These experiences not only foster creativity and confidence but also build lifelong skills that enrich both academic and personal growth.

We are also pleased to announce that later this term, we are hosting the Watoto Children’s Choir. The Watoto Children's Choir is a group of African children's choirs based in Uganda, affiliated with Watoto Church. Each choir typically consists of around 18 to 22 children, all of whom have experienced significant hardship - many were orphaned or abandoned - and have since found healing and hope through the Watoto ministry. For over 30 years, Watoto has sent more than 100 choirs around the world. These children share their stories and faith through music, performing uplifting songs that reflect their journey from brokenness to restoration. The choir will be performing to all of the students at the Tyabb Campus on Tuesday 16 September.

You watch a short clip of the Watoto Choir here: WATOTO CHOIR

Mr Mark Hamilton

Head of Secondary

The recent secondary school production of Into the Woods Jr. was an outstanding success, showcasing the remarkable talents, creativity, and dedication of our students. Across four captivating performances, audiences were treated to a high standard of acting, singing, and stagecraft that reflected months of preparation and teamwork.

A special thank you and congratulations go to Melinda Slade, Liam Allars, Annette Yates, and Julie Gillett for their exceptional leadership, direction, and behind-the-scenes support. Their vision and commitment created the perfect environment for our students to shine, both on stage and off.

Our students demonstrated not only their artistic abilities but also their resilience, cooperation, and professionalism throughout the rehearsal process and performances. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and the joy they brought to our community through this production.

Into the Woods Jr. was more than just a performance, it was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the thriving arts culture within our College. Congratulations to all involved for delivering four wonderful shows that will be remembered fondly for years to come.

Over the past few weeks, our VCE Music students have had the invaluable opportunity to take part in a series of Performance Masterclasses led by a lineup of outstanding professional musicians. These sessions have been instrumental in helping students develop their performance assessment repertoire, with a focus on instrument technique, musical expression, and stylistic approach.

The Masterclasses have been tailored to each instrument, offering expert insight and personalised feedback to guide students in refining their craft. We are grateful to the following guest instructors who generously shared their time and expertise:

David Dower – Piano
Dylan Redman & Liam Bradford – Drums
Ben Wicks – Bass
Lachlan Davidson – Saxophone
Kathleen Halloran – Guitar
Maxon – Vocals
These sessions have not only deepened students’ technical understanding but have also boosted their confidence and creativity as performers.

Vocal Workshop Reminder

We are excited to welcome Maxon to deliver the final vocal workshop on Friday 29th August. This session promises to be another fantastic opportunity for our vocal students to learn from one of the industry’s finest.

A huge thank you to all our guest artists and students for making this Masterclass series such a success. We look forward to hearing the results in upcoming performances and assessments!

Adam Carson
Head of Performing Arts

We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of our talented Grade 3 Strings students who have taken an exciting step forward in their musical journey by successfully completing their latest String Licence milestone!

All students have passed the recent string test with flying colours, demonstrating their growing confidence and technical skills. This assessment involved:

Third Finger test for Cello
Second Finger test for Violin and Viola
Each student displayed focus, perseverance, and musicality; qualities that will serve them well as they continue learning and developing their instrumental technique.

This accomplishment brings them closer to achieving their full String Licence, and we couldn't be prouder of their progress and dedication. Well done to all!

We look forward to seeing (and hearing!) what they achieve next.

Adam Carson
Head of Performing Arts

On Monday 28th July, the Music Department was filled with energy, focus, and the beautiful sound of strings as students from both campuses came together for a Cross Campus Strings Rehearsal.

Members of the Junior Strings Ensemble and the Chamber Orchestra spent the day refining their repertoire and ensemble skills in preparation for their upcoming performance at the Monash Youth Music Festival Eisteddfod, to be held at the Salvation Army Waverley Temple on Saturday 9th August.

Throughout the day, students demonstrated incredible commitment, discipline, and musical maturity as they worked through complex pieces, fine-tuned their technique, and built strong ensemble cohesion. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to collaborate across campuses, share their passion for music, and gain valuable experience in a focused rehearsal environment.

We congratulate all participating students on the continued development of their string playing skills and their positive approach to ensemble learning. It’s inspiring to see such dedication from our young musicians, and we look forward to seeing their hard work pay off on stage at the upcoming eisteddfod.

Thank you to our string staff, Greta and Cathy, for their expert guidance and support throughout the day. We can’t wait to cheer on our ensembles as they represent Flinders at the Monash Youth Music Festival!

Keep practicing and keep shining!

Adam Carson
Head of Performing Arts

A huge congratulations to our Cross Campus Junior Strings and Chamber Orchestra ensembles on their fantastic performances at the recent Monash Youth Music Festival!

Participating in this prestigious Eisteddfod gave our students a wonderful opportunity to further develop their ensemble skills in a dynamic and supportive performance environment. Throughout their preparation and on stage, students demonstrated tremendous growth in instrumental technique, tone and articulation, ensemble balance and presentation, intonation and rhythmic control, and understanding of musical style.

Both ensembles represented the College with excellence, performing with confidence, and focus.

We are incredibly proud of each student for their hard work and dedication, and we thank our instrumental staff, Greta, Cathy, and Julia, for their expert guidance and support throughout the lead-up to the event.

Well done to all involved!

On Thurs 14/8 some of our Joshua Centre students along with the Yr 9 Basketball Academy class enjoyed a training session together. A huge thank you to Mr Wells for facilitating this clinic where our JC students could enjoy a period in the gym playing games and experiencing what a modified academy class might look like. A very special time was had by all

What a way to wrap up the season! Our Sport Aerobics teams have shown outstanding improvement, not only in their results but also in their confidence and stage presence. Every routine was a testament to hard work, resilience, and a willingness to step outside comfort zones.

Results:
1st Place - Flinders Dream
1st Place - Flinders Radiance
1st Place - Flinders Ascend
1st Place - Tahlia W
1st Place - Shanara H
2nd Place - Flinders Shimmer
2nd Place - Flinders Glow
2nd Place - Flinders Pearls
2nd Place - Flinders Fearless
2nd Place - Charlotte & Vivienne
2nd Place - Zoe A
2nd Place - Lucy J
3rd Place - Flinders Bubbles
3rd Place - Flinders Twinkle
3rd Place - Flinders Fierce
3rd Place - Sarah S
4th Place - Flinders Stars
5th Place - Ariana M
5th Place - Flinders Shine

A heartfelt thank you to all parents and families for your ongoing support and for giving students the opportunity to be part of this program. We are incredibly proud of every student for embracing this new sport, developing their skills, and showing remarkable perseverance. Their growth—both on and off the stage—has been inspiring to witness.

Flinders College had a huge week at the Basketball Victoria Champions Cup Qualifying Days, with three days of intense competition and outstanding performances from our teams.

Tuesday – U15 Girls & Boys Our week began with the U15 Girls and Boys teams setting the tone in spectacular fashion. Both teams remained undefeated in their pool matches, showing skill, teamwork, and determination. In the finals, they fought hard to secure victory and successfully booked their place in the prestigious Elite 8’s Day.

Wednesday – U17 Girls & Boys Day two saw our U17 teams take the court. The U17 Girls displayed grit and effort throughout their pool matches but faced a tough opponent in the finals, bowing out after a strong campaign. The U17 Boys impressed with flawless pool performances, remaining undefeated before winning their final to progress to the Elite 8’s.

Thursday – U20 Girls & Boys Our final day featured the U20 Girls and Boys teams, representing Flinders at the senior level. The U20 Boys dominated their pool matches, remaining undefeated before claiming victory in the grand final to secure their spot in the Elite 8’s. The U20 Girls fought hard throughout their pool matches and capped off the day with a finals win, also earning their place in the Elite 8’s.

A massive congratulations to all our players for their efforts across the week and to the teams moving forward to the Elite 8’s. Your dedication and sportsmanship have made the College proud.

Over the weekend we had a friendly Flinders V Flinders under 12 boys game. Some great shots taken!

Calling all new players and returning basketballers to sign up to Summer Season.

Please refer below Expression of Interest (EOI) to sign up to join the Flinders Basketball Club - 2025/2026 SUMMER SEASON.
Deadline: Wednesday 29th August 2025.

Link: Flinders Basketball Club - EOI - summer season 2025/6

Any student interested in being considered for one of our 2026 Flinders Basketball Academy classes are invited to complete the below expression of interest survey by Sunday 31st August.

2026 Flinders Basketball Academy Application form

All current basketball academy students are required to complete the expression of interest survey as re-enrolment is not automatically guaranteed.

The selection process will include:
- An online application
- On court skills assessment
- Consultation with coaches, heads of secondary and heads of students

Skills assessment dates and times will be communicated once all the nominations have been received.

If you have any questions about this class, please contact Ms Natalie Chatfield
natalie.chatfield@flinders.vic.edu.au

Our Prep students celebrated their milestone of 100 days at school this month, marking an important step in their learning journey and school experience.

The JCA students had a fantastic time crafting imaginative creatures from modelling clay, and next week they’ll bring them to life with paint.

As part of Book Week
celebrations, the class had the special opportunity to meet author Patrick Guest, sparking inspiration and deepening their appreciation for storytelling.

JCA also joined the JCC class on a Buddies Trip to the Rosebud Jetty and Park, where they practiced mentoring and teamwork in a fun and relaxed setting.

Back in the classroom, students tackled a hands-on engineering challenge: building a bridge over water for cars to drive on. This activity encouraged problem-solving, collaboration, and creative thinking.

During Book Week on Thursday 7th August, our students were treated to a visit from author Patrick Guest, who shared his book Baboon in a Balloon. But the real twist came thanks to Angus from JCB. With his sharp eye for detail and love of animals, Angus pointed out that the “Baboon” on the cover wasn’t actually a Baboon at all – it was a mandrill!

Patrick was sure Angus must be mistaken… until curiosity got the better of him. That night, he did some research and discovered Angus was absolutely right. The next day, Patrick returned to the Joshua Centre with a brand-new, corrected copy of the book – personally signed for our students.

This Monday morning we were delighted to have an email from Patrick to let his friends at the Joshua Centre know that we inspired him to write a new book in the 'Baboon' series titled Baboon and the Buffoon! One of the pages from the book reads:

‘You’re wrong Patrick Guest
‘You’re a SILLY BUFFOON
I’m a MANDRILL, you goose
I’M NOT A BABOON!
What a thrill for our Joshua Centre students during Book Week!

Over the past couple of weeks, the JCC class has been busy exploring learning opportunities outside the classroom. Through a series of excursions, students have been developing their collaboration skills, engaging with the public, and discovering more about their local environment.

One highlight was a visit to the Mornington Library, where students immersed themselves in the world of books. With Book Week in full swing, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect to celebrate a shared love of reading.

Another memorable outing was a Buddies Trip with the JCA class to the Rosebud Jetty and Park. This excursion focused on mentoring and teamwork, as students learned from one another and strengthened their bonds through shared activities and collaboration.

These experiences have not only enriched their learning but also helped build stronger connections within the school community.

JCD presented their plate to paddock pizza presentations to the class in Agriculture. JCD were learning about where and how each product is grown, produced, manufactured and transported to our supermarkets and markets.

JCD and JCC students gave their all in this week’s triathlon trial, showing great determination and enthusiasm across the ride and run components. It was fantastic to see their hard work and positive attitude in action, and we’re proud of the effort they put into these stages of the event.

JCD had a fantastic session with the VM class this week, diving into hands-on activities and discussions to prepare for next week’s Jobs Expo. Students explored different career pathways, practiced their networking skills, and asked great questions about what to expect. The excitement is building, and we can’t wait to see our students shine at the event!

Dear Flinders Families

Applications for 2027 and beyond are now open!

We have limited places, so best to apply as early as possible especially if you have a sibling.

Submitting an application is just a click away!

If you have any questions, please contact enrolments@flinders.vic.edu.au

Warm regards
Illana Cornell
Enrolments Manager