From the Principal

“Why did you become a teacher?”

“Do you miss being in the classroom now that you’re a Principal?”

“What’s your favourite part of being a Principal and your least favourite part?”

Welcome to Year 5’s surprise episode of Q and A with Ms Moloney!

As I made my way down to Junior School earlier this week looking forward to an informal visit to 5F, little did I know what awaited me. In true MLC School style, the students had decided that my visit was an opportunity not to be wasted and upon arrival, I was invited to take a seat at the front of the room and participate in their version of Q and A.

After answering the introductory questions above, the students really ‘turned up the heat’ demonstrating the immense amount of thought, planning and preparation that they had put into their questions:

“What are the advantages of having an Indigenous program at MLC School? Why do you think it is important that students like me are part of the MLC School community? What can the rest of the community learn from having us here.?”

And “how much does the School have to change when visually impaired people join the School? What can the rest of the community learn from having us here.?”

So, what were my answers?

The first question is particularly timely given that Reconciliation Week is upon us. Having Indigenous students at MLC School is important because their presence helps all students and staff grow in understanding, respect and connection, and ensures that our understanding of Indigenous culture is real by bringing valuable cultures, histories, and perspectives into everyday learning. As a Uniting Church school, we are committed to reconciliation by walking together in truth, respect, and mutual understanding with First Nations peoples.

Having visually impaired students has helped us understand inclusion, empathy, adaptability, and different ways of experiencing the world. While we have had to make some small physical adaptations, much of the change has been in us. These students have taught us that there is more than one way to learn, communicate and succeed, and that a strong school community is one where everyone is valued and supported. I have also learnt a lot about communication technology and different ways of teaching.

Fortunately, there were also some less challenging questions,

“You are sometimes part of the MLC School orchestra. We know you are busy, so what made you join the orchestra?”

I love playing music and when possible, I do love to play in our School orchestra although I sometimes find it hard to get to rehearsals. The main reason is that I am a very average double bass player and I love to play alongside our students who are excellent; it is my opportunity to learn from them and for students to see that learning is something that continues throughout life. Being part of a high-quality musical performance is also one of the most memorable things that you can do.

I am exceptionally proud that we have a School where our students feel empowered to ask the Principal about things that matter and things that they want to know about her. Well done, 5F!

National Volunteers Week

As we mark National Volunteer Week in Australia, it is an important opportunity to recognise the many volunteers who contribute so generously across our School. Volunteers through the OGU, P&F and Ambassadors, sport and co-curricular activities play a vital role in creating connection, belonging and momentum as they welcome new families, support events and fundraising, assist staff and students, serve on committees, and help keep Alumni and community relationships alive. Thank you to all those who work so selflessly to support our School community.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal