Founded in 1856 and established as a girls’ college in 1940, Matthew Flinders Girls’ Secondary College mission is to build a learning community that challenges and supports young people to develop as independent and life-long learners, striving for excellence. The culture of the college is characterised by sharing, teamwork, a collective effort and high standards. Learning and teaching is becoming more focused on better preparing students as more active, informed and discerning learners and problem solvers for the future. Student wellbeing is central to the ethos of the college and an extensive array of support programs are in place to ensure the educational, social and emotional wellbeing of students. Building leadership capacity of staff is also valued and staff members are continually encouraged to develop this capacity through participation in informal and formal professional learning. There is also a clear understanding that the physical environment of an educational setting can support improved student learning hence the continuous improvement approach to facilities, buildings and grounds.
Facilities: The college is housed on two sites in very close proximity of each other. Years 7, 10, 11 and 12 are housed on the main campus, whilst Years 8 and 9 are housed on the Helen Fraser Campus. Learning is supported by a well-resourced library, computer and internet facilities, iPads in Years 7 and 8, a ‘bring your own device’ program in Years 9 – 12, an assembly hall/gymnasium, a dance/drama complex and well-equipped designated specialist rooms. Year 12 students have their own common room and study areas.
Curriculum: Curriculum in Years 7 to 10 is premised on the Australian Curriculum and Victorian Essential Learning Standards (AusVELS) through core and elective offerings. At Years 7- 9, the curriculum comprises an integrated component and other core and elective teaching. Due to technological innovation, the way people work and interact in the 21st century has changed and continues to change and, as a result, students need to be ready to contribute to the knowledge economy. Industry now demands different skills — the ability to work in teams, to think creatively and rapidly adapt to changing conditions and technology. Integrated curriculum models real-world experience, allows students to participate in more sophisticated tasks, makes school work more interesting and engaging through creative teaching, inquiry into real issues and the use of a high level of Information Communication Technology. The college offers a diverse range of VCE subjects, university enhancement studies, VCAL, many courses in VET and other programs to meet student needs. The college is a SEALP provider. The college is the home of the Sweethearts, an exceptionally talented music group, and uniquely supports its musicians in Certificate 1V music.
Sport: Students compete in inter-house, district, regional and state competitions. There are core and elective units in Physical Education and Outdoor Education.
Co-curricular activities: The college offers a broad and comprehensive range of activities that enrich and extend student life in the broader community. For example, performing arts activities, music ensembles, bands, choral groups and performances, key learning area weeks, various state-wide competitions, talent searches and exhibitions, public speaking and debating, sporting activities, camps, tours and excursions, work experience, community and industry links, learning technologies, student publications and productions, student leadership and participation programs.
Student welfare programs: The college supports students through integrated welfare programs. Trained personnel help students and parents. Special studies are provided to assist transition and develop skills. The college actively promotes student involvement in decision-making and has extensive leadership opportunities.