Junior School Term 1 Week 9

From the Head of Campus

It has been a joy and privilege to journey with all our parents, guardians and families in Term 1 2024 and, on behalf of the staff, I would like to thank you for your support and trust in our Junior School. Term 1 is a vitally important time in establishing relationships for students, staff and parents and I would encourage you to be in contact with staff, particularly your child’s Homeroom Teacher, whenever required as we work together to support the children over the year ahead.

Reflecting on the nine weeks of our Term 1 together, we have had many exciting opportunities to celebrate special events within our Junior School community. These have included: our Year 4 Leaders Induction and Year 3 Bible Presentation services, Shrove Tuesday celebrations, our Welcome Picnic, Open Day, Discovery Learning program, House Swimming and Athletics carnivals, Year 2 William Buckley excursion, Fire Rescue incursions for Preps, parent sessions offering information on literacy, numeracy and digital device safety tips, the Years  3 and 4 intensive swimming program at the Middle School Sports and Aquatic Centre, Silly Sock Day to support Geelong Mums, lunchtime and Year 2 strings/music concerts, Harmony Day and Year 1 Old World Day. All of these events take place whilst students engage in the many and varied learning opportunities they have at Junior School each day.

Wowee…What a Term!

I have had the pleasure this term of witnessing many moments of connection and celebration unfold across the College and the tapestry of experiences that have enriched our school days, is a testament to our collective commitment to fostering wellbeing and creating opportunities for all individuals to flourish.

From the swimming and athletic carnivals to the colour runs, from the lunchtime clubs to the competitive fervour of House challenges, the opportunities to explore the great outdoors, the camps, the incursions, the excursions, the music performances, and the production rehearsals…well needless to say it has been a whirlwind of activity and achievement. Our Project Care teams passionately championed important philanthropic causes, dedicating their efforts to raising awareness and funds for worthwhile initiatives and our Year 9s began their journey of experiential learning via the farm and transformation program.  Our Prefect Investitures afforded us the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate our new student leaders of our College and Harmony Day and International Women’s Day reminded us of the importance of inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. We sang and we danced, we performed and rehearsed, we studied, we tried, we laughed and we cried, we paraded and hunted for easter eggs. You name it…I think we did it!

Geelong Mums Visit

On Monday March 25, we went with Mrs Dunlop and Mrs Braun to visit Geelong Mums to drop off 850 pairs of socks that we had donated by running ‘Silly Sock Day’. Some staff and volunteers walked us around and helped us to understand how they help people in Geelong, and we would like to tell you about our time there.

At Geelong Mums, the first thing we noticed is that they have two main rooms with lots of books and clothes. While we were there, we learnt that Geelong Mums help people who don’t have what they need, and we also learnt that the workers there are very dedicated and very kind to people. We felt inspired at Geelong Mums when we saw how much stuff needs to be donated to help people and how if everyone donated something, there would so many items to help. Did you know that Geelong Mums helps over 900 children every month?

It was good to see how the socks we collected help people and all the hard work that happens at Geelong Mums to make sure people have what they need. We hope we can continue to donate things to Geelong Mums in the future.

Ivy Thompson and Sam Zampatti, Year 4

What’s on at Junior School

Term 2; Week 1
Tuesday April 16 – Term 2 Commences

Week 2
Tuesday April 23 – Year 2 Camp
Wednesday April 24 – Year 2 Camp
Wednesday April 24 – ANZAC Service, 9am, front roundabout. All Welcome!
Thursday April 25 – ANZAC DAY Public Holiday

Week 3
Tuesday April 30 – Lunchtime Concert, 1:10pm
Thursday May 2 – Marvelous Maths in May, 3.30-4.30pm (Refer to article in this edition of The Vine)
Friday May 3 – Prep 50 Days of School Celebrations

‘Marvelous Maths in May!’ Fun for the Family

We are very excited to announce that we will be having a Marvelous Maths afternoon in May!

Families are invited to join us on Thursday May 2, 3:30pm – 4:30pm to participate in a range of fun games, puzzles and activities all based on Mathematical concepts.

There will be opportunities to engage in some hands-on Mathematics together with your child/children in various rooms throughout the Junior School Campus.

Click the link below to tell us that you’re coming along, or alternatively scan the code on the flyer below.  https://www.trybooking.com/CQHYS

We look forward to celebrating the world of Mathematics with our families!

Always Learning

Last Saturday a group of staff from Junior School-Belmont and Surf Coast Campus attended the ResearchEd conference day in Ballarat. This was the largest ResearchEd event to be held in Australia. ResearchEd was originally set up in the UK to bring education researchers and educators together, ensuring that the research is translated into relatable and practical terms.

The speakers presented on a range of topics from behaviour management to English and Mathematics. All speakers presented from a research-informed and evidence-based pedagogy. 

Tim McDonald, who has led change through Catholic Education in WA opened, unpacked the impact that classroom routines have on behaviour in the room. Amy Haywood was there from the Grattan Institute unpacking the recent report about reading in Australia. Sarah Richardson and Cate Whiting presented from AERO, Australian Education Research Organisation regarding the practical papers they provide educators about best practice. 

There were a number of presentations that overlapped and reinforced the importance of key pedagogy. Presenters on The Writing Revolution linked explicit writing instruction to reading content which is what we are currently implementing as part of our knowledge-rich curriculum, using an EDI framework, Explicit Direct Instruction.

It was a day of wonderful learning and opportunities to reflect on our own pedagogy. There were lots of smiles and nods as we could confidently speak into key elements presented, identifying how these are part of what we do! It was great to have sessions targeted to classroom teachers and school leadership and that we were able to have representation at these various sessions.

Days like this help us as educators to continue to grow and learn. They also give us opportunities to network and hear from researchers and experts in education. 

Success In the Pool – Nellie Gray

We are thrilled to announce that one of our Year 4 students, Nellie Gray had a wonderful day in the pool on Tuesday. Nellie competed in the Western Metro Regional Finals, placing second in the 50 Metres Breaststroke and fourth in the 50 Metres Freestyle.

We congratulate Nellie on her tireless efforts in training and her achievements.

Best Buddies!

The Preps gathered excitedly for their final buddy session of the term, filled with lots of fun board games the Year 4s created for them. The games had a focus on Christian Education, the students delved into board games which told the Easter Story. Laughter filled the room as together, they navigated through the narratives, deepening their understanding of the Easter story while having fun.

But beyond the games, it was the bonds with their buddies that truly enriched the experience. As they played, they enjoyed each other’s company, strengthening their connections not only with their peers but also with teachers and parts of the school they may not often encounter. These sessions were heartwarming moments of friendship and discovery, leaving the Preps already asking when our first Term 2 buddy session is!

Old World Day in Year 1

To celebrate the conclusion of our Interdisciplinary Learning unit, ‘Change over Time’, the Year 1 students celebrated ‘Old World Day’! The children spent the afternoon participating in various games and activities their grandparents may have enjoyed in Year 1. The children arrived at school in style, wearing something that their grandparents may have worn to school at the same age!  There were lots of hats, ties and cardigans!

It was wonderful to see the children so enthusiastic about the different activities. They were eager to play marbles, noughts and crosses (using chalk boards), skipping, ring toss, dominos, and dress ups! The Chapel and courtyard were buzzing with excitement as the students moved from one activity to another.

To conclude what was a lovely afternoon, the children enjoyed a shortbread biscuit and a cup of lemon cordial. What a treat! Well done to our wonderful students!

Historical Explorers in Year 2

The history curriculum requires Year 2 students to examine a significant local individual and to explore the reasons for their importance.  To meet this requirement, we finished off the term with an in-depth interdisciplinary study of William Buckley, an escaped convict linked to the early history of our local area.  Indeed, an exploration into William Buckley’s life proved to be a fascinating study for the children, especially because of his connections to the local Wathawurrung tribe with whom he lived for 32 years.

Over several weeks, the students gathered information about Buckley’s life which was also linked to a study of Information Texts. The students wrote Buckley’s biography in their own words under subheadings, and once the rough drafts were completed and conferenced, the children then published their amazing work as little posters, which they were incredibly proud of.

Library News

We have had a wonderful start to the year in the Library. The students have been very enthusiastic about their borrowing, and the Library has been abuzz in library lessons, and lunchtimes. A huge thank you to some of the Year 4 students who have been assisting at lunchtime in the library.

We are excited to announce a new initiative for Term 2. We would like to invite parents to accompany their children into the Library on a Monday afternoon, after school. Parents will have the opportunity to borrow books with their child to share together at home. There is a real benefit in parents and children choosing books together and then sharing those books at home. We hope you take up this offer as we trial it in Term 2.

The most borrowed book for Term 1 was The many lives of Pusheen the Cat, followed by The Brain is Not always Right. The most active class for borrowing was 3B with 352 books followed closely by 4G with 320 books.

We wish you a fabulous Easter Break and look forward to welcoming you to our Library next term.

Happy Reading…

House Athletics

This week, Year 4 students participated in the House Athletics Carnival at Middle School. It was a particularly large event with students from Years 4-9 from three campuses competing in a range of running, throwing and jumping athletic events.

It was great to see the attitude and effort of all students whilst supporting their peers. There were some outstanding results on the day with Burrows House the winners on the day.

A big thank you to the Year 4 classroom teachers, Mrs Laura Hollingsworth, Mrs Jessie Stap and Mr Foran along with Grant D’Altera for their support of the students and help running events.

We will be presenting medals to the top three boys and girls early next term. Well done to all our Junior School students for your participation on the day.

Congratulations to our Swimming Medalists!

On Wednesday this week, we had an opportunity to present the Year 4 medalists from the House Swimming Carnival. It was a special occasion for all our students as we were able to hear from Nicole Briscoe, one of our CCG Sport Assistants this year.

Nicole is striving to be selected on the national swimming team. She will be competing in the National Championships on the Gold Coast next month. We wish her all the very best leading up to and competing in the event.

A huge congratulations goes to the following Year 4 students who were awarded medals.

Year 4 Girls                                                                                                

First – Nellie Gray (Flynn)                                                              

Second – Madison Cahill (Taylor)                                          

Equal third:

Macy Forbes (Burrows)                                                                  

Savannah Reynolds (Burrows)                                                

Jenny Zhao (Taylor)

Qustodio Parent App

As part of the College’s commitment to supporting students and families with positive digital interactions in the home, we provide access to the Qustodio Parent App for all College parents and carers.

Relationship, clearly established boundaries, and adult modelling of healthy interactions with digital technologies form the best foundation for supporting young people’s own positive digital interactions. eSafety identifies parental controls as an important tool for parents in support of home digital wellbeing and provides an excellent parent guide to parental controls.

• Parental controls | How to keep your child safe (esafety.gov.au)

Parental controls tools, such as the Qustodio Parent App, can help to enforce agreed rules, provide safety barriers, and better empower parents and carers by providing visibility over their children’s digital activity. Parents are encouraged to consider how the Qustodio Parent App can support them and their young people at home.

Video Link: A Parent's Initial Introduction to Qustodio

Interested parents who have not already registered their Qustodio parent account can learn more about how to get started below. This includes video guides on registering your parent account as part of our school program and getting started.

• Getting Started with the Qustodio Parent App

Qustodio is a valuable tool for parents which can be used in a range of ways depending on your child’s individual age, needs and context. I encourage parents and carers to consider and explore how Qustodio can support you and your young people with positive digital interactions and wellbeing at home.

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!