From the Acting Principal
This week, returning from the holiday break, I’ve been reminded of the incredible privilege I have to work at a school that has five campuses across our region and approximately 2000 students from Prep all the way to Year 12. I had the pleasure of being accompanied by our College captains, Brianna Bolger and Jett Milburn, as I visited each of the campuses for their Term 2 commencement assemblies. It was wonderful to observe Brianna and Jett receiving such warm and enthusiastic welcomes from students of all ages and, likewise, for the two captains to engage so effortlessly in meaningful, positive interactions with their audiences.
One of the highlights was a visit to a Junior School Prep classroom, where Brianna and Jett got down on the floor with the students to learn how to draw polar bears. It was a special moment, one that had Brianna and Jett, knowing what they know about life, adolescence and growing up, reflecting afterward how important it is to preserve childhood innocence.
In a world that often seems so chaotic and fast-paced, even for our two school captains, moments like these serve as gentle reminders of the importance of nurturing and protecting our young people, allowing them to explore, create, and imagine without the weight of the world's troubles on their shoulders.
Today’s younger generation are increasingly exposed to the perils of social media and digital technology. While these platforms offer many benefits, they also present significant risks to the innocence and wellbeing of our young people. The pressure to fit in, the constant comparison to others, and the prevalence of cyberbullying can all take a toll on their mental health and ability to flourish.
As adults, it's our responsibility to guide and support our children in navigating these challenges. We must teach them to use technology wisely, to recognise the difference between reality and the carefully curated content they see online, and to seek help when they need it.
Proverbs 22:6 says: "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it." May we, as a community, continue to uphold and protect the innocence of our young people, guiding them on a path toward fulfilment and accomplishment.
I commend Brianna and Jett for their genuine care and concern for students of all ages at Christian College, from little preppies all the way up to their Year 12 peers. As I said at the start, it’s an absolute privilege to be part of this community, especially knowing we have such caring and compassionate students in our midst.
Rick Geall, Acting Principal
Unearth Your Treasure Within!
Open Day and Prep Discovery Days
For those considering a Christian College education for their children, regardless of year level, we believe the best way to get a true 'look and feel' of our College is to come and see us in action. That’s why we offer open days where interested parents and guardians have the opportunity to tour our campuses, see real classes in real time, meet students, teachers and campus leaders and have their specific questions answered.
Our second Open Day for 2024 at all five campuses, plus Butterfield House Kindergarten, is on May 7. Opening times have been planned so there is an opportunity to visit more than one campus on the same day. Bellarine Campus will open its doors from 9:30 to 11:00am; Middle School-Highton from 10:30am to 12 noon; Senior School-Waurn Ponds from 11:30am to 1pm; Junior School-Belmont from 9:15 to 10:45am and Surf Coast Campus and Butterfield House from 11:30am to 1pm. Evening sessions are offered at two campuses on the day – Junior School (at 5:00, 5:15 and 5:30pm) and Surf Coast Campus (at 4:30, 4:45 and 5:00pm).
Then on May 8 and 9, we are again offering a Prep Discovery experience at our Bellarine, Belmont and Surf Coast Campuses. These days are for those parents and guardians interested in enrolling in Prep. There is an opportunity for them, and their children, to actually join a Prep class for an immersive experience – and find out more about our amazing Prep program at three campuses. For those interested in attending one of these free sessions, we ask for a booking so we can properly accommodate everyone who wants to attend. More details on both Open Day and Prep Discovery sessions, including a link to book a Prep Discovery place, can be found on our website.
We would ask all current Christian College families who have friends, other family members or colleagues who are making choices about the right school for their child(ren), to spread the word and encourage them to visit one or more of our campuses on May 7, and/or be part of our Prep Discovery program on May 8/9.
From the Head of Campus
It has been wonderful to see the Senior campus come to life after the Easter break. With COVID restrictions now properly in the rear-view mirror it is fantastic to be enjoying the very full program of activities the Christian College is renowned for.
During the break our Indonesian Study Tour returned after a week in Lombok at our sister school, SMA2 Mataram and a second week in Yogyakarta. The connections made on these programs extend well beyond exceptional educational outcomes. Following this, one of our Y10 Our World First Nations classes departed for their immersion into Community in Central Australia. Thirdly, we are enjoying supporting the cast and crew of the College Production of Cinderella as they prepare for what is sure to be an exceptional production at the end of Week 3.
Each of the three events mentioned above are monumental undertakings, yet they represent just three opportunities, amongst many, that are available to our Senior students at this time.
At our commencement assembly on Tuesday, I spoke to our students about Discipline.
When someone says they want to talk about discipline, I wonder, what is the first thing our students think? Discipline has a bit of a negative connotation sometimes, and we might think of it as something that is all about correcting poor behaviour.
I asked our students to think of it in a different way. As something personal. Something they own and that is for their own benefit.
We are often told that discipline is important, but why? I urged our students to think of it as a strong form of self-care. Of ignoring something they want now for something better later on. Discipline reveals the commitment you have to yourself and where you want to go, especially on the days you don’t feel like it. Only the disciplined ones are free in life. The rest are a slave to their moods.
I urged our students to pick something simple they would like to improve for themselves and stick with it long enough to make it routine. I believe the more healthy things they can get to the “routine stage” the easier and more full their life becomes.
Best wishes for the term, and don’t hesitate to contact me at any time.
Jason O'Loughlin, Head of Campus
What’s Happening at Senior School
Wednesday April 24 – ANZAC Service 8.50am
Thursday April 25 – ANZAC Day – No school
Monday April 29 to Saturday May 4 – College Production of Cinderella at Play House Theatre
Tuesday April 30 – GISSA Senior Boys AFL
Thursday May 2 – Year 10 students departing for Our World – Finke Trip
Tuesday May 7 – College wide Open Day
Wednesday May 8 – Year 12 English SAC 3.45-4.55pm
Tuesday May 14 – GISSSA Senior Boys AFL
Friday May 17 – Staff Development Day – No Students on campus
Monday May 20 – East Timor Independence Day
Tuesday May 21 – GISSA Intermediate Boys AFL
Thursday May 23 – GISSA Senior Girls AFL
Monday May 27 – Year 10 Outdoor Education Trip to Arapiles
Tuesday May 28 – GISSA Intermediate Girls AFL
Wednesday May 29 – GISSA Cross Country
Thursday May 30 – House Music
Tuesday June 4 – Year 10 Immunisations
Wednesday June 5 – World Environment Day
Monday June 10 – Kings Birthday – No school
Wednesday June 12 – Unit 1 Examinations begin
Friday June 14 – Year 10 Examinations begin
Tuesday June 18 – General Achievement Test for Unit 3 and 4 students (otherwise student free day)
Friday June 21 – Presentation Ball
Friday June 21 – Term concludes 3.30 pm
Saturday June 22 – Presentation Ball
Monday June 24 to Wednesday June 26 – Staff Retreat
Wednesday June 26 – Semester 1 reports live to Parents
Year 12 Literature
“A sad tale’s best for winter. I have one of sprites and goblins.”
Earlier this week, our Year 12 Literature students were part of a Complete Works in school workshop exploring the 17th century Shakespearean play The Winter’s Tale. Part of their Unit 3 studies involves considering the play as it was intended for its original audience, and then applying a more contemporary lens to a second reading of the text. Sarah and Andrew performed several scenes from the play and led us in a discussion of the possible interpretations that audiences – then and now – might develop in response. From Leontes’ jealous rage to Antigonus’ heroic actions through to Hermione’s miraculous reappearance, the students were able to compare and contrast gender roles, Shakespearean tropes, and the mischievous antics of William Shakespeare himself.
A big thank you to Sarah and Andrew from Complete Works Theatre Company, and well done to all of our Lit students on their participation in this incursion.
Trish Saffin
Matilda Takes top Gordon Award
Congratulations Matilda Inglis on Winning The Gordon VCE/VET Excellence Award!
“The Gordon Awards for Excellence is the most prestigious event on The Gordon Institute’s calendar and an exceptional opportunity for our students. An important celebration and recognition of academic achievement and personal triumph throughout their time at The Gordon.”
Year 11 student Matilda Inglis is a second year VET student studying Certificate II in Animal Studies at The Gordon. She was initially nominated for this award last year by her VET teacher and was then shortlisted and interviewed. Matilda was selected out of a possible 2000 students to attend the awards night at GMHBA Stadium on Wednesday March 27, where she was declared the winner of The Gordon VCE/VET Excellence Award. This award is presented to a student who has demonstrated an outstanding achievement in The Gordon VET in Schools Program as a part of their secondary school studies in 2023. Matilda is to be congratulated on this outstanding accomplishment.
Kerryn Fearnsides
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.
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
Jennifer Freind, Foundation Manager
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!
Event: Christian College Foundation Golf Day
Date: Thursday, 24th of October 2024
Dress: Casual
Cost: $195
Format: Ambrose – team of 4 players
Location: 13th Beach Golf Links, 1732 Barwon Heads Road, Barwon Heads
You can individually register or register up to a team of 4 players
This event is proudly sponsored by AECS.
Event Information:
For Players, registration commences at 7:00 am.
Breakfast provided; coffee & tea available.
Ambrose Golf (shotgun start): 8:00am – 12.30pm.
Lunch and formalities: 1:00pm – 3:00pm – auction items available to bid!
*Terms and conditions apply
CLICK HERE to register
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