Junior School Term 1 Week 6

From the Chaplain

Silly Sock Day

Today at Junior School, we celebrated our very first ‘Silly Sock Day’ and it was so much fun! There were socks covered in bright colours, fun pictures and even some pom poms. This was an initiative run by our Year 4 Project Care team in response to a need shared by Geelong Mums who provide support to local families.

Students were invited to join in with a ‘silly sing-along’ in the courtyard at lunchtime with Mr Horman wearing their silly socks. Each class also spent time decorating their own paper sock as part of the fun.

As a campus, the Project Care students collected over 850 pairs of donated children’s socks which is such an incredible effort. Some of our Project Care Leaders will have the opportunity to visit Geelong Mums in the coming weeks to deliver these donations and see where and how this organisation supports local families. Thank you for partnering with us to provide families in need with essential clothing items.

Future Enrolments 

We are now completing our planning and confirming enrolments for next year and for 2026. Parents are reminded that siblings of current students, expecting to start at Christian College in 2025 or 2026 at any year level, must complete the online enrolment process by clicking on this link https://enrol.ccg.vic.edu.au As you will already have had an interview and tour you are not required to do so again unless you wish to discuss the enrolment with Mrs Ann-Marree Weigl, Head of Campus. 

Student Learning Conferences

Student Learning Conferences are being held online on Tuesday March 12, 4:00pm-7:00pm and Thursday March 14, 4:00pm-6:00pm. Please note: Bookings are currently open and will close on Monday March 11, 4:00pm.

Please see the attached file below on how to book a student learning conference with your child’s teacher.

We encourage you to forward any queries regarding accessing the online conferences to our IT Specialists by contacting helpdesk@ccg.vic.edu.au

Please also find a link to a document which outlines the steps for you to participate in the online Teams conferences: Parent Guide, Joining a Teams Meeting

What’s on at Junior School

Week 7
Monday March 11 – Labour Day Public Holiday; Student Free Day
Tuesday March 12 – Student Learning Conferences , 4:00pm-7:00pm (Please refer to           Edsmart notification)
Wednesday March 13 – Preps at school,  Discovery Learning
Wednesday March 13 – Naplan, Writing
Thursday March 14 – Student Learning Conferences, 4:00pm-6:00pm
Thursday March 14 – Naplan, Reading
Friday March 15 – Assembly, 3B class item
Friday March 15 – Year 3 Bible presentation (Please refer to Edsmart notification)

Week 8
Monday March 18 – Harmony Week begins
Monday March 18 – Naplan, Conventions of Language
Tuesday March 19 – Naplan, Numeracy
Tuesday March 19 – Lunchtime Concert, 1:10pm
Tuesday March 19 – 4G Students to visit Sirovilla
Tuesday March 19 – 2B Class Strings Concert, 11:20am
Thursday March 21 – Harmony Day, Casual Dress Day
Friday March 22 – Prep – 2 Chapel Service, 9:00am
Friday March 22 – Year 2 Excursion, William Buckley Experience (Edsmart to come)

Week 9

Monday March 25 – Preps Fire Rescue Victoria Visit 2, 9:15am
Tuesday March 26 – Year 4 attend Middle School Athletics Carnival
Wednesday March 27 – Preps at School
Thursday March 28 – Easter Bonnet Parade, 9am
Thursday March 28 – Easter Service, 11:30am
Thursday March 28 – Conclusion of term 1; 2:30pm

Interdisciplinary Learning – Exploring the Past

Our students are currently delving into an engaging exploration of the past and present, comparing the evolution of technology, transport, and toys. This immersive journey is fostering a profound understanding of the transformative changes that have shaped our world.

In the range of technology, students were in awe at the revelation that smartphones and personal computers were once non-existent. Through hands-on activities and the examination of artifacts, they gained insight into the evolution of communication tools.

The exploration of transportation has been a thrilling journey, as students contrast horse-drawn carriages with the sleek efficiency of contemporary cars.

Toys, ranging from traditional wooden blocks to modern electronic gadgets, serve as a nostalgic window into changing childhood experiences. The rediscovery of timeless games cultivates an appreciation for the enduring joy of imaginative play. As our students navigate through the threads of the past and present, they are not only gaining historical insights but also developing an awareness of the rapid changes that define their world.

Stay tuned as our students continue their captivating exploration of the past and present.

Indigenous Artists and Storytelling Symbols

In an exploration of Indigenous culture, our Year 4 students have embarked on a study of famous Indigenous artists as part of their Interdisciplinary Learning (IDL) studies. This task aimed to deepen their understanding of Australia’s rich cultural heritage and foster a sense of appreciation for the significance of Indigenous art within the Australian art scene.

Students delved into the works of renowned Indigenous artists, discovering the unique styles and stories behind each masterpiece. This immersive experience not only broadened their artistic horizons but also provided valuable insights into the diverse cultural tapestry of our nation. Students were also able to represent an example of the artist’s work using the fresh paint program on their own device.

As a pivotal aspect of the lesson, students explored Indigenous storytelling symbols, unravelling the visual language embedded in these cultural narratives. Learning the importance of symbols such as circles, dots, and lines, students were able to grasp the meanings these elements held within Indigenous storytelling traditions. Students applied their newfound knowledge to create a visual representation of their family’s journey using Indigenous storytelling symbols. The results were both captivating and personal, showcasing the students’ creativity and connection to their own heritage.

By studying and appreciating the works of these artists, our students not only develop a keen eye for artistic expression but also gain a respect for the diverse Indigenous cultures that have shaped our nation.

Year 4s Make a Splash!

On Thursday, our Year 4 students joined the Middle School Campus at the House Swimming Carnival at the Kardinia Aquatic Centre.

The weather was perfect, not too hot with plenty of students participating in the swimming and novelty events. Students had the option to swim in freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly events.

There were some pleasing results, and it was great to see so many students attempt a swimming event for the first time. Individual and house results are being finalised and will be announced next week.

A big congratulations to our Year 4 students who were amazing in and out of the pool, to the many Junior School staff who assisted in running events and supervising students. Thank you to our parents for coming along to support the day, thank you!

Prep and Year 4 – Unlocking Digital Potential

Students across Junior School have made a wonderful start to the year with their learning in Digital Technologies classes.

Preps have been exploring exactly what Digital Technology involves and how we use technology for a purpose. We have loved discovering all the parts of the computer, especially the keyboard to type our names, and we have compared our paper drawings with our attempts at digital drawing using Paint 3D. With more to cover throughout the year, our Preps will be experts in no time!

Year 4 students have taken on extra responsibility this year, with the addition of their very own device. This term, we have been exploring how to use programs and apps like MS Teams, MS Word and MS Outlook, as well as how to care for and maintain our devices both at school and at home. As our confidence grows through program exposure and interaction, you can be sure these students are building their digital literacy skills with every session.

A reminder that not every activity during DigiTech classes, uses a computer. Weekly tasks alternate during sessions to include ‘unplugged’ activities, to balance our onscreen-offscreen time, allowing for ‘hands-on learning’ and movement throughout the lesson structure.

Year 3 Music and Performing Arts

The yard is alive with the sound of music here at Junior School. Year 3 students have been learning how to play the recorder this term and have approached the challenge with great enthusiasm. Students have been practising both at school and at home to refine their technique and create beautiful music. This week, students collaborated with their classmates and practised playing their recorder songs in duos and trios, as well as creating original compositions. I have been very impressed with the amount of improvement the students have shown in such a short amount of time and am looking forward to continuing this work with them throughout the term.

Year 3 students have also been practising dramatic improvisation, exploring the many different ways that voice, movement and facial expressions can be used to communicate thoughts and ideas. Students have been engaging in a wide range of games and activities designed to help develop improvisation skills. Improvisation requires students to think on their feet, use their imagination and make adjustments according to the context of the dramatic play. It is wonderful to see students approaching challenges with a range of unique perspectives and creative ideas.

Scholastic Book Club News

Issue 2 of Scholastic Book Club has been distributed to students and orders should be placed online by Tuesday, March 12. 

Our preferred payment method is via LOOP either using the mobile app or the desktop site which can be found here.

Please do not send cash as we are unable to process cash payments. 

Thank you for your assistance and support of Book Club. 

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!