Term 1 Week 6

What’s Happening at Bellarine

Week 7

• Monday 11 March Labour Day Public Holiday
• Tuesday 12 March Face to face Student Learning Conferences – 4:00PM
• Wednesday 13 March Naplan testing begins
• Thursday 14 March Yr 9 Marine Studies Dolphin Swims Boat Tour
• Thursday 14 March Brass Performance Night
• Sunday 17 March Cinderella College Production Rehearsal, full cast 10:00 – 5:00PM

Week 8

• Monday 18 March Piano Performance Night
• Tuesday 19 March House Athletics Carnival
• Tuesday 19 March Digital Student Learning Conferences – 4:00PM
• Wednesday 20 March Digital Wellbeing and Cybersafety Parent Forum
• Thursday 21 March Harmony Day
• Thursday 21 March Woodwind Performance Night
• Sunday 24 March Cinderella College Production Rehearsal, full cast 10:00 – 5:00PM

Introducing your Bellarine School Captains for 2024: Abhi and Alex

Through this year already, we have had many opportunities as Prefects to come up with possible initiatives to start throughout the school and had opportunities to get to know the students in many different year levels at our school. Then, on March 1, we were formally recognised in these roles, receiving our Prefect badges in the Leadership Investiture.

When you are up on the stage you can feel the anticipation building as you walk on to receive your badge, everyone is already trying to guess who will be announced as School Captain. We all knew two names would be called out, but out of 10 Prefects up on stage, no one knew who it would be. We all stood and waited, holding our breath until we were privileged enough to have our two names called and, at that point, you can’t help but feel elated. A huge weight is lifted off your chest and the excitement immediately hits you.

Abhi Sanjeev and Alex Norgard, Bellarine Campus School Captains

Preps’ Writing is Taking off!

The Prep students have been learning to write letters of the alphabet. Handwriting is a huge challenge for our smallest students and something they love practising every day. The Preps are learning to write on ‘dirt / grass / sky’ lines which helps them finesse their letter placement. The pride is evident on the children’s faces as they share their work!

Devotions in Years 3 and 4

Year 3 and 4 students have been enjoying their devotion time each morning during homeroom. They have been using their Jesus Story book Bibles to explore different Biblical themes, as well as looking at different leaders from the Bible. They have also been learning about the upcoming celebration of Easter. Devotions and Christian Ed lessons each morning is a wonderful time where the students can reflect and think about their own connection with God and his plan for their lives.

Sam Kennedy, Hayley Keogh, Mark Jacobi, Amanda Clark

Spotlight on Science

It has been a wonderful term of Science with Middle School students immersing themselves in their studies.

Year 5 students have been learning about states of matter and investigating the rate of water evaporation. The weather forecast for this upcoming long weekend will ensure that there is a lot of evaporation happening. Keep watering those gardens!

Year 6 students have been investigating energy, with a focus on electrical energy and circuits. Students have investigated the concept of electrical conductors and insulators and have collected data to analyse.

Year 7 students have been busily familiarising themselves with the safe usage of scientific equipment, particularly the use of Bunsen burners. Students have also focused on identifying fair investigation protocols.

Year 8 students have been studying cells and the use of microscopes, which has then led into a deeper look at the circulatory system, with sheep heart dissections being conducted in recent lessons.

Year 9 students have also investigated a biological topic, focusing on the control systems used in our bodies to enable our bodies to operate within a fine optimal range. Students have studied the endocrine and nervous systems, which culminated in sheep brain dissections.

 It is always wonderful to witness a student’s sense of joy when they recognise the connections between their scientific studies and how it relates to them and the world in which they live.

Year 6 Camp – Adventure, Collaboration, and Fun

We hopped off the bus at the Airey’s Inlet skatepark and everyone was ready for adventure. We started with a 3km walk that began with a stroll along the beach, then journeyed ‘Around the Twist’, aka, The Airey’s Inlet Lighthouse, and we finished with a walk into the Angahook Holiday Camp. There were a couple of tired faces, but they all contained a smile.

It was a true blessing to be on the Year 6 camp. The students showed resilience and creativity as they participated in the various activities. During the bonfire on our first evening, students sat around and listened quietly as their peers shared jokes, scary stories, and whodunnits. It was especially delightful to observe the kindness shared with others as they encouraged those that were a little hesitant.

The Year 6s showed tenacity and endurance as they mountain-biked in the local bush, canoed, and climbed a climbing tower. While leading the climbing tower activity, I was proud the students’ ability to support and care for one another. When someone was showing fear, the other participants cheered them on, and some even climbed up, beside their scared friend, as they said reassuring words and guided them up the wall. This support made it easier for many students to reach the top, so they could all enjoy the thrilling decent on the zip line.

Several camp staff made mention of how friendly and kind our students were. The Year 6s demonstrated leadership skills as they helped set up and clean up at mealtimes. During trivia on our last night, several students danced and sang between rounds.

We heard many student voices declaring that ‘this was the best camp ever’ throughout the three days.

Theresa Drewer, Samantha McKenzie, Liam Monagle, Tom Sheehan, Joel Dillon (Sport Assistant)

Year 5/6 Summer Carnival

On Thursday, 7 March, the Year 5 and 6 students travelled to Geelong College to compete in the Year 5/6 Summer Carnival. It was wonderful to be able to welcome the students from the Surf Coast campus to join us on the day. The students were given the opportunity to compete across a range of sports, including cricket blast, swimming, hot shots tennis, tee-ball and dodgeball. As always on these days, the competition was fierce, and it was great to see so many of our students active and involved in their sport. I was proud of the way the Christian College students conducted themselves in games and activities, demonstrating great sportsmanship, a positive team spirit and an attitude of teamwork. Thank you to the 5/6 sport staff who helped this day run smoothly.

Exploring Ancient Australia

On a hot Thursday morning in Week 4, our enthusiastic Year 7 Humanities students and teachers embarked on an educational adventure to the Melbourne Museum. Their destination? The captivating First Peoples exhibition, a treasure trove of stories, culture, objects, and images that vividly depict the life of Indigenous Australians.

As part of their curriculum, Year 7 students delve into the mysteries of ancient civilisations, with a special focus on Ancient Australia. This excursion was a pivotal moment for them, allowing them to witness firsthand the rich heritage of our continent’s First Nations people.

Upon entering the exhibition, students were greeted with a warm “Wominjeka,” or ‘Welcome’ in the language of the Woi Wurrung People, the traditional owners of the land. From that moment, students’ journey had begun.

Chaplain’s Check-in

It was an exciting time this week for two Year 9 students who received a new Bible. What a wonderful opportunity we have at Christian College to be able to do this.

The students also were able to contribute to the Easter canvas by marking it with their thumb print. All students and staff are involved in this as a way of being a part of the Easter story throughout the College. As a community it is a privilege to be a part of this whole College initiative. The photos give you an idea of what this involves. Bellarine Campus has a drawing of the empty tomb where Jesus Christ rose from the dead, thus giving each of us great hope and meaning to life.

I’m reminded of this passage from the Bible. In all the Gospels we have the story of the empty tomb. Here is a glimpse from the book of John, Chapter 20.….

ANZAC Day March: April 25

To all our families, here’s something for the diary…

Each ANZAC Day a number of students and staff attend the ANZAC Day service, wreath laying and march in central Drysdale at the epitaph next to the old law courts.

I would love you to consider coming along with your family together with your child/children in full College uniform and march together with staff, students and me.

The date is Thursday, 25 April, during Week 2 of Term 2.

I’ll let you know more details as the date gets closer.

Take care

Senior Girls Cricket

The Senior Girls cricket team recently participated in the annual GISSA competition. With the ever-increasing popularity of cricket amongst females, the day was expanded this year to include six teams, with two pools of teams each playing two T10 games.

Our first game against Geelong Lutheran College was a close one, but the more accurate bowling of our team, combined with some slick moves in the field (Alice running like the wind) to restrict scoring, gave us a 12-run win. The batting effort was strong from our two Year 9 team members, Jess and Phoebe, with Suzanna also scoring freely.

We anticipated that the Sacred Heart team would be formidable, as they had a large number of girls who play club cricket at both junior and senior level, but our girls faced it with a positive attitude, playing with great spirit and encouraging each other along the way. Abbey and Tilly weathered the storm of a super-fast opening bowler and Ally took a couple of body blows for the team – all with a smile on her face! Despite the very accurate bowling, we only lost 5 wickets in our innings, which was a testament to the girls’ improved batting technique and determination. Although Sacred Heart passed our score with some big hitting, Tilly took an amazing caught and bowled, losing a fingernail from the impact.

With one win and one loss, the team finished second in their pool. Tilly was awarded the medal for best player, with captain Emily – whose wicketkeeping saved countless runs and bowling took valuable wickets – also recognised for her efforts. In fact, the day was such a team effort that all of the girls deserved a medal – for their skills, outstanding sporting attitude and for making it a fun day for us all.

Project Care – Coin Trails and Pictures

We are currently in the Christian calendar period of Lent.

Lent’s three pillars are prayer, fasting and almsgiving–meaning we are called to reconcile with God though prayer. To fast, this can be viewed as not just abstaining from a particular food or activity, but what we’re willing to take on. Almsgiving can be achieved through our fast to save the money not spent on ourselves and to give it to the poor. 

This year we are supporting the Jesuit Mission and hope to give families chickens to provide for them a food and income source and to provide clean water to communities.

Junior school will do a money trail and the classroom with the longest trail with receive an Easter treat.

Middle School will create an image for each homeroom and the winning image will also receive an Easter Treat.

We ask that students bring coins in to each homeroom collection box over the next two weeks.

The Coin Trail /Pictures will take place on FRIDAY  March 22 as we end our focus on Harmony Week.

Swimming Carnival Age Group Champions Awards

A week on from the excitement pool side, our swimmers were recognised at our middle school assembly yesterday for their wonderful achievements in the water. Congratulations to all our students who challenged themselves and contributed to their house points and to those selected to compete at the GISSA Swimming Championships.

Age Group Champions:

We are now looking forward to our House Athletics Carnival in Week 8 on Tuesday, 19 March 2024! 

Bean Break

The Bean Break baristas have been training since Term 4 2023 and are now an efficient running team.

Each student has two shifts and they have learnt the basics about work as a barista. They specialise in making hot chocolate, iced chocolate, and milkshakes for students and of course a variety of specialised coffees for staff. The Hub has a student-led group who make slices for our café every Monday, which is greatly appreciated.

I am so proud to witness their growth in both confidence and interactions with the Middle School cohort.

Prayer Group

I’m extending an invitation to anyone who would like to be a part of a prayer group of parents and myself who pray each week for you.

We meet every Monday between 9 and 9:30am in my office just next to the front reception area. We pray for families, students and our staff. It’s a wonderful time to get together and pray for our community.

Please let me know if you are interested. I look forward to hearing from you.

Library News

Dr Seuss Day

Students joined in the fun of celebrating Dr Seuss Day with a Dr Seuss Book Bingo held at lunchtime. There were many excited children seeing who could be the first to yell “Bingo”! So much fun was had that three rounds had to be played.

Scholastic Book Fair

Years Prep to 6 should have received the latest Scholastic Catalogue. A reminder orders close on 12 March and all orders are to be placed online with payment via credit card.  We do not take cash payments. Once books have been received, library staff will hand them to the classes.

International Women’s Day

In recognition of International Women’s Day on the 8 March, the library has a display and “Guess these Inspirational Women” competition. A silhouette has a number of women’s faces and students are encouraged to see how many inspirational women they know. 

Term 1 Learning Conferences  

Our Term 1 Parent Student Learning Conferences will run a little bit differently this term. As a trial, we plan to run our conferences over two nights. 

Tuesday, March 12, will be a person-to-person, face-to-face meeting (Pre COVID), while Tuesday, March 19, will be an online TEAMS meeting. Please note, the change of date for one of our Conference evenings. Times for the sessions are March 12 (face-to-face) 4:00 – 6:00pm; March 19 (Teams) 4:00 – 7:00pm. 

Parents and Guardians will have the choice to book in to either evening.  We will be looking for feedback on these evenings, thus helping us to make decisions for subsequent Learning Conferences later in the year. 

Further details, including how to book and operational matters, will be sent in coming weeks.   

NAPLAN 2024

NAPLAN or The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy is an annual nationwide test for students in years 3, 5, 7 and 9 in the four areas of Reading, Writing, Conventions of Language and Numeracy. This year marks the seventeenth year of NAPLAN, which is now in an entirely digital and adaptive platform.

The tests will be run throughout a two-week window from March 13 to March 25.

The results of the tests provide information for students, parents, teachers and principals and can be used to support student achievement.

“Our young people are learning in many different ways, and at their own pace.”

Whilst the NAPLAN provides informative data, it is but a ‘snapshot’ of our students on a certain day. Our young people are learning in many different ways and at their own pace. It is important to remember that the learning at Christian College is rich and diverse and embraces the student in ALL aspects of the person and there is no national test or box and whisker graph big enough to account for the ‘Learning that Matters’.  There is no special preparation required and students can be reassured that NAPLAN tests are just one part of their school program, and they should simply do the best they can on the day.

Those Important Moments of Reflection and Connection

As we continue our journey of preparation for the Easter season, I am reminded of the importance of connecting with loved ones in a meaningful and joyful way. Moments of reflection and connection are central to our capacity to live well as they allow us to pause amidst the chaos and deepen our understanding of ourselves and others. In the hustle and bustle of everyday living, it can be easy to lose sight of the need to prioritise our wellbeing and finding moments of true connection can be a challenge, particularly in our digitally driven world. As highlighted by Dr Kristy Goodwin, one of Australia’s digital wellbeing and productivity experts, many of us are struggling to tame our tech habits and it is impacting our health and wellbeing. She acknowledges how difficult it is to unplug when we live in a world saturated with screens, pings, and alerts and furthermore, with every ping, scroll and interaction, our brain is rewarded all in a digital minute! In her manifesto, she reminds us of the importance of attention as being the most precious resource we have. She encourages us to own it and protect it at all costs so we can be present where we are and when we matter. It goes without saying that there are tremendous benefits to technology, and it has enriched our lives in a myriad of ways, but when we are able to be more mindful of our digital habits, we are well positioned to protect our digital wellbeing. By unplugging from screens and engaging in meaningful conversations and interactions we can create the space we need to connect with loved ones and be genuinely present.

‘The next time you get ready to snap a photo with your camera, put it down and thank God for blessing you with this moment instead’ – Linda Hanstra

Doing the Right Thing on our Buses

I have noticed a decline in the overall behaviour of some students on our bus network, which is something we take very seriously. We have seen some significant damage to bus seats (cuts / slashes) and an increase in graffiti on seats and other surfaces of the bus. Please note, this behaviour will not be tolerated, and appropriate disciplinary action will follow, including the reimbursement of costs associated with repairing damage, if applicable.

We ask all parents to please remind your children that damaging the buses disadvantages everyone who uses them, and to encourage those who witness this sort of behaviour to either email schoolbustravel@ccg.vic.edu.au or talk to their home room teacher. We will ensure that their identity remains anonymous.

Most importantly, appropriate behaviour on our buses is vital for the safety of all passengers and drivers.

Please click on this link to a YouTube video as a reminder of how to travel safely on our bus network:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FN5SfNHr37s

I would like us all to work together to ensure that we are operating the safest possible bus service every day and thank you in anticipation for your assistance in achieving this.

Reconciliation Action Plan Working Party

In late 2022, Christian College Geelong formed a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Party in a commitment to addressing, supporting and implementing our journey towards Reconciliation.

Late last year, due to this College priority, our Reconciliation Plan was ratified by Reconciliation Australia and published on their website. It will soon be appearing on our College website.

Our RAP Committee meet as one body once per term and comprises Acting Principal Rick Geall, a Chairperson, a College Board member, College staff, First Nations students and other interested students, and parents of First Nations students.

While we meet as one group, we incorporate two specific areas: Curriculum and Resources; and Community and Events. Each plays a role in planning, creating and sharing opportunities for Reconciliation in the classroom, around our campuses and across the broader community.

CCG Digital Wellbeing and Cybersafety Parent Forum

Thank you to the parents and guardians who have responded and registered for this upcoming event next Wednesday evening. Based on your responses to date, here are the top 5 topics parents are most interested in exploring on the night:

• Protecting my child from harmful or inappropriate content
• Screen time - finding a healthy balance
• Parental controls
• Cyber bullying
• Making informed parental decisions about specific apps and games

We’re especially excited about the opportunity on this evening for some rich sharing and discussion amongst parents attending and will also share information on how the school can support you and your children in this space, at school and at home.

As this event is intended for interactive participation by attendees in a forum-style format, there will not be a recording available.

This event will be suitable and relevant for parents of students of all ages, from Prep through to Year 12. This one-hour forum will involve a combination of information and support from the College, as well as an opportunity to share and discuss challenges and strategies with fellow parents.

Cinderella – Be Quick - Tickets are Disappearing Fast!

There are still tickets available for our major College production this year, but they are going fast, so to ensure you don't miss out - book now! Join us as we present three very special performances of this delightful story featuring students from Years 6 – 12 with exceptional talent throughout the cast, and an orchestra brimming with outstanding student musicians, all backed up by a wonderful community of staff, students and families backstage.

Performances are at Geelong Arts Centre Play House Theatre on May 3 and 4.

To purchase tickets, visit our website and click on the hotlink on our homepage, or go straight to ticket sales by clicking here. 

Camps, Sports and Excursion Fund

Financial Assistance for Eligible Parents

School camps provide children with inspiring experiences in the great outdoors, excursions encourage a deeper understanding of how the world works and sports teach teamwork, discipline and leadership. All are part of a healthy curriculum.

Every Victorian child should have access to the world of learning opportunities that exist beyond the classroom. The Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) helps ensure that no student will miss out on the opportunity to join their classmates for important, educational and fun activities. Support from CSEF is provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips, camps and sporting activities and forms part of the State Government’s commitment to breaking the link between a student’s background and their outcomes.

If you hold a valid means-tested concession card (HCC) or are a temporary foster parent, you may be eligible for CSEF. A special consideration category also exists for asylum seeker and refugee families. The allowance is paid to the school to use towards expenses relating to camps, excursions or sporting activities for the benefit of your child.

The annual CSEF amount per student is: • $150 for primary school students • $250 for secondary school students

How to Apply

Application Forms are available online through the Parent Portal (Go to ‘Student Information’ > ‘Important Forms for Parents’) these forms can be downloaded, completed then uploaded according to the instructions. Hard copy forms are also available from reception at each campus or by emailing enquire@ccg.vic.edu.au

More Information

For the CSEF application closing dates and more information about the fund please visit this webpage

CSEF_Application_Form_2024

Class of 2014 10 Year Reunion

The Class of 2014 10 Year Reunion is set for Saturday, April 13, 2024. Join us at Blackman's Brewery Geelong from 5:30pm-8:00pm. Tickets are $15 each and RSVPs close on Thursday, 28th March 2024 at 5:00pm. 

This will be a great opportunity for you to reconnect with your peers, catch up with past teachers, and reminisce about your school days. 

Tours of the College Clocktower at Middle School - Highton will also be optional on the day of the reunion, if you would like to climb the Clocktower and find your brick, simply book in when you register. 

For those who would like to have a tour of the College grounds, please head to our website to arrange a tour. 

We look forward to catching up with the Class of 2014. If this is your year group, spread the word and register for your 10 Year Reunion today!  

https://ccgfoundation.org.au/2014

Foundation Gathering Hope Appeal Luncheon

The Foundation Gathering Hope Appeal Luncheon is back on and has been scheduled for Friday, 24 May 2024.

You are invited to join us for lunch at the stunning Provenance Wines in Fyansford.

This is a fundraising event for the Foundation and an opportunity to hear about the success and progress of the College.

Our guest speaker is Jossy Chacko, Founder and President of Empart, a global ministry that exists to ignite holistic community transformation among needy communities.

Giving leadership to a team of over 13,000 people and offices in nine countries, Jossy travels around the world inspiring and challenging leaders to capture a larger God-size vision and not to waste gifts and opportunities. He is also the author of Madness! and Dare to Partner.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to come together. 

Secure your seat and book online today! 

https://ccgfoundation.org.au/gh

Golf Tournament 

Join the Christian College Foundation for an exciting four-person Ambrose Golf Day, including a $30,000 hole in one prize on Thursday, 24th of October at 13th Beach Golf Links, Barwon Heads.

Set on the stunning Bellarine Peninsula, the day provides an opportunity to enjoy the award-winning creek course, known for its undulating couch fairways, deep bunkers and interesting swales and hollows.

You will be treated to a scrumptious breakfast on arrival and an opportunity to participate in several fun activities including the longest drive, nearest to the pin etc.

There is plenty of prizes up for grabs, including a cash prize of $30,000. Score a Hole in One on the 12th Hole and you can win. *

You will also be treated to a delicious buffet lunch and learn more about the incredible work of the foundation. Every dollar raised will be dollar matched!