Senior School – Term 1 Week 7

From the Acting Principal

In my interactions with parents at various events over the past couple of weeks – welcome picnics, swimming carnivals and leadership inductions – I’ve taken the opportunity to ask a few questions about this very newsletter, The Vine. “Are you a regular reader?” “What’s your feedback on the content?” And “Is Friday afternoon the right time to receive it?”

It has been pleasing to learn that almost all parents I spoke to read The Vine weekly. They love learning of all the classroom and non-classroom activities taking place on their child’s campus each week – not just the ones relevant to their year level, but all the goings on, mindful that their child might partake in such activities in the not-too-distant future. And as for the Friday timing? Well, again, the vast majority expressed a strong like for receiving it at the end of the week. A welcome wrap-up, if you will, offering a glimpse into the highlights and achievements of the week. And, according to some, a great way to wind down on a Friday evening!

Like you, I’m also seeing The Vine hit my inbox on a Friday afternoon. I never tire of reading the latest happenings across all our campuses. The feedback from parents underscores the significance of The Vine as a means of fostering unity and connection within our broader school community. And the breadth of content, across subjects, year levels and campuses, in and out of the classroom, showcases the rich tapestry of experiences available to our students.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated teachers for their commitment to keeping you, our parents, informed and connected through The Vine. Each week, staff at each campus go to great lengths to ensure that the content resonates with you, offering an insight into your child’s schooling experience and the wonderful community to which they belong.

Assessments, Learning and Growth

Over the last couple of weeks at Senior School there has been a lot of focused essay writing, tests, case-study analyses, practical work and more taking place in classrooms as at least one cycle of learning and assessment comes to completion.

Whether Year 10, VCE or VCE VM, students have had the experience of completing specific tasks to demonstrate satisfactory completion of outcomes as well as indicate level of achievement in their learning. Some students may be feeling very pleased, others may have a sense of discouragement that they have not achieved at a level they hoped. Regardless of the grade or mark, it is worth all students taking some time to reflect on the experience and identifying where they could seek to improve as they enter the next learning and assessment cycle. Next week’s student learning conferences are one excellent opportunity for this.

Seeking improvements could mean looking at organisation, using class time more wisely, asking more questions when help is required and ensuring timely completion of homework. Equally important, if not even more so, is growing the understanding that everyone has the capacity for improvement.

What’s Happening at Senior School

Tuesday March 19 – Student Learning Conferences All Day online (No students on campus)

Wednesday March 20 – Digital Wellbeing and Cybersafety Parent Forum

Thursday March 21 – World Harmony Day

Thursday March 28 – Senior School Easter Service – Period 1

Thursday March 28 – Term 1 concludes – 2:30pm dismissal

Student Learning Conferences

All Senior School parents/guardians will have received an email regarding our upcoming Student Learning Conferences, to be held on Tuesday, March 19 from 10.00am to 8.00pm.  Classes will not be running on this day and students are therefore not required on campus. Booking details were provided in the email.

The objectives of the Senior School student learning conferences are to:

• Involve parents and guardians in the educational process
• Hear from students about their views on their progress in each subject
• Add value to feedback and results that are already available to parents on SEQTA
• Promote ongoing communication between the teacher, parent, and student
• Give teachers, parents and students the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns

We encourage you to make bookings at a time when students are available to attend with you. While many bookings have been received already, they will remain open until Monday next week. As a Senior School we are looking for students to take responsibility for their own learning, hence feedback and discussion will be most valuable if the student is a participant. Students will have had the opportunity to complete a self-assessment for each subject prior to the conferences, which they will be encouraged to bring to their appointment.

We look forward to these opportunities to partner with you in supporting your child’s academic and pastoral development throughout 2024.

Which House are you in?

Which house you belong to is often a hot topic in Term 1 at Senior School. Students from our Bellarine and Highton Campus merge to form one Year 10 cohort and the house system suddenly becomes interesting in new and vital ways with “Which House are you in?” being a very important question…

Our College-wide theme for devotions this Term has been “Christian Leadership”. Naturally when it came to our Senior School House services, we didn’t have to look far for inspiration and encouragement as our legendary “House Heroes” David Penman, Eva Burrows, John Flynn and Hudson Taylor are absolutely epitomes of healthy and engaged Christian Leadership.

Each House service this term has focused on their particular House Hero, for many students, even those who have been with the College and their House since prep, this is their first robust introduction to the leader who has given their name to this particular House/cohort of students. It has been a joyful privilege to introduce these epic Heros of Faith to our Senior School students. Learning and relearning about the significant roles these Christian Leaders played in their context, how they changed Australia, the world and their lasting legacy of faithfulness and integrity helps us to uphold and imitate their positive impact as current students, staff and alumni. During COVID we really saw the alumni presence and investment in their House of origin with many signing up to support the current students by getting involved with the remote walking/riding/running initiatives that were held at that time. These formative leaders that influence the Senior School experience leave lasting impressions on our students.

A Canoe Journey

Last week, the Year 10 Outdoor and Environmental Studies students embarked on a three-day canoe journey along the Murray River. This key component of the Outdoor and Environmental Studies course allows students to test their skills and understanding of concepts discussed in the classroom, take well-managed risks and develop a deeper connection to the natural world around them.  Students enjoyed the opportunity to experience the magic of early morning paddles, connect with new friendship groups and overcome the challenges that arise from being self-sufficient for three days. Please enjoy just a small snapshot from the students’ perspectives. 

“Through being on the Murray River specifically in Cobram I have been able to develop so many skills and reignite feeling towards nature. Through being with so many people who just last year I did not know it was challenging going into it, how would being around new people for three days go? It was not a worry though because through the camp I was able to develop team-building skills and communication, and through that I made new friendships. Also, through the camp, I was able to pray in moments, through being in such a nice area and the nature around me, I thanked God for the world he had made for me and us.”  Ben Eden 

“Canoeing on the Murray River was a great experience. I really enjoyed looking around at the trees and recognised the river red gums that the Indigenous people used to make bowls and canoes. I learnt how to read the map and find where we were on the river, using the river markers. I learnt how people interact and use the water for different activities. I also learnt how people disrupted the environment. During the trip I developed friendships with other people in the group. Looking up at the stars on the second night was my favourite part! Tiggy Goldsmith

Health and Human Development Excursion

The Unit 1 HHD classes recently headed to Pt Addis Marine National Park to explore the beautiful coastal area – in particular we were interested in the Koori Cultural walk.

 In Unit 1 HHD we study perspectives and priorities surrounding Health and Wellbeing.

With a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing, the Koori Cultural walk provided the perfect location to visit some significant sites including a Midden and reflect on how connection to country and culture has an influence on the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

We were greeted with perfect weather and students were able to enjoy the walk and connect with nature themselves. We stopped along the way to reflect on each of the signs that provided some excellent information, and the students were also able to learn about the history of the Wadawurrung, Gulidjan and Gabubanud people and how they cared for Point Addis and surrounding regions.

Overall, it was a successful excursion, and we recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a beautiful walk only a short trip from Geelong.

Important VET Information

The training organisations are reporting a high number of parents picking students up early from their VET courses. This is problematic for the trainers and the students. The courses are designed to deliver the number of hours to contribute to the students VCE or VCE VM as well as achieve their qualifications. It is difficult for trainers to ‘catch students up’ and puts pressure on students to complete tasks that they have missed, which can be a unit of competency.

The training organisations have asked for schools to pass this message on to parents in the hope of reducing the number of students missing or leaving classes early.

Police Career Expo

The Recruitment Team at Victoria Police is excited to announce one of its largest career expos yet – Victoria Police Career Expo – Your ‘Made for More’ Pathway. This is an all-ages event and is a fantastic experience in creating your own pathway into Victoria Police.

This is a rare opportunity where all the Victoria Police working units gather as one to provide answers to burning questions and tell you about all the exciting ‘on-the-job’ stories.

Especially for students, this event is extremely beneficial as our Recruitment Team, Exam Provider (ACER) and Medical Team will all be in the one place to assist with any career questions or application questions.

There will be members attending from a large range of units, such as;

• Air Wing
• Water Police
• Dog Squad
• Crime Scene Services 
• Police Academy
• Road Policing Drug and Alcohol Section
• Search & Rescue
• Detectives
• Medical Advisory Unit
• and more!

When: Saturday April 13 2024
Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre – 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf VIC

Time: There are many session times to choose from, all sessions run for 15 minutes as an introduction into your pathway experience. Note: all sessions contain the same information.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER!

We hope to see you there!

Victoria Police Recruitment Team

Spotlight on Music – Felix Drums up a Storm!

Felix Rankin from Year 10 was invited to perform as a “Young Guest Artist” with the Daryl McKenzie Jazz Orchestra featuring a piece of his choice at the Paris Cat in Melbourne. 

The DMJO has been a cornerstone of the Australian Music scene since the 1980's, supporting countless local and international solo artists. They came into their stride in the 90's as the studio band for "Hey Hey Its Saturday". 

A week before Felix's performance, when the resident drummer became unavailable, he was asked to step up and play the entire two-hour gig. Members of the DMJO (who are music directors themselves) were blown away by Felix’s preparation and performance on the night. 

Here is a snapshot of his feature piece "Magic Flea" by Sammy Nestico, from the Count Basie recordings

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.

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!