27 Mar 25

Continuing On Mission

Newsletter | Toolern Vale Update

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been really impressed by how quickly and beautifully our students have settled into the 2025 school year. As I walk around our beautiful campus and visit classrooms, it almost feels like we’re nearing the end of the year rather than just starting, given how engaged and focused the children are.

When students feel safe and settled, learning thrives. Our dedicated staff at MCC do an exceptional job of creating an environment where students feel comfortable sharing their ideas and expressing themselves. Research tells us that this type of nurturing environment leads to increased engagement, creativity, and collaboration among students—ultimately fostering better learning outcomes. How exciting it is to be part of an educational journey like ours, one that prioritises making students feel secure and valued.

Forty years ago, our College embarked on a mission to create a safe, engaging, and uplifting learning environment, and it is so lovely to be a part of that vision today. Our College’s foundation is built on values that reflect who we were forty years ago—and who we continue to be in 2025. In case you’ve missed them (though I’m sure you haven’t!), our Core Values define us and are at the heart of everything we do: Respect, Excellence, Community, Passion for Teaching and Learning, and Christ-centeredness. Every decision we make and every plan we create is grounded in these values. For forty years, we’ve had the privilege of nurturing our community with these values at the centre.

There is a risk that we might take for granted what we have—a safe, beautiful, and nurturing environment that is truly unique. This place is a part of our journeys, whether for a short time or for many years to come. We hope and trust that the legacy and impact of this College community will continue to shine brightly for generations to come. How special it is to be part of the history of this incredible learning environment.

kellie giannes, head of toolern vale campus