CCG Sport Hall of Honour
On Thursday, October 5, our College community celebrated a very special event, the opening of the Christian College Geelong Sport Hall of Honour. Families, past and present students, staff and other friends of the College gathered last night for a gala dinner and celebration of the outstanding achievements of current students who have reached national or international status across a wide range of sports. Twelve of these students received our ‘Rising Eagle’ awards, being recognised for their skill, application and teamwork in their chosen sport.
Furthermore, in 2023, the recipient of the Tegan Philip Medal is Abbey O’Hanlon, ‘Most Valuable Player’ of the 2023 Senior Female Netball team, and the recipient of the Gary Ablett Jr Medal is Spencer Jones, ‘Most Valuable Player’ of the 2023 Senior Male AFL team. The recipient of the Top Flight Eagles Award is the 2023 Senior Male AFL team.
A huge congratulations goes to all of these students, and this is to be accompanied by a heartfelt thanks to the teams behind the stars, the parents, guardians, coaches and other inspiring people who have enabled these wonderful opportunities for our talented young people.
In addition, a particular highlight of the event was the induction of the first members of our CCG Sport Hall of Honour, Mrs Tegan Philip and Mr Gary Ablett Jr.
A student at Christian College Geelong from 2001 to 2006, Tegan Philip (nee Caldwell) enjoyed a highly successful and decorated career as a professional netballer. Starting at the Bellarine Netball Association, and rising to State League level, Tegan first earned a spot representing Victoria in 2008. The next year, she was named in the gold medal winning Australian Under 21 squad for the World Championships. Joining the Melbourne Vixens in 2010, she quickly made a name for herself as Rookie of the Year and ended her career as a one-club player in 2020. During this time, she amassed 131 appearances and scored 2,729 goals. Both Vixen records at the time. Notable highlights include winning premierships in 2014 (as ‘Grand Final Player of the Match’) and 2020. She also served as Vixens’ Vice Captain from 2017 to 2020, while being named ‘Best Goal Attack’ in the National League in 2017.
Tegan’s achievements extended to the Australian Diamonds Netball Team, securing a gold medal at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, as well as contributing to their success during the 2017-2019 international seasons including a Constellation Cup victory.
A student at Christian College Geelong from 1990 to 2000, Gary Ablett Jr is celebrated as one of the most decorated players in Australian Rules Football history. He first played football with a Christian College team, then for local club Modewarre. Gary went on to play 357 games in the AFL for the Geelong Cats (247) and the Gold Coast Suns (110) and kicked 445 goals after being drafted out of the Geelong Falcons in the 2001 National Draft under the League’s father-son rule. His list of individual accolades includes winning the Brownlow Medal in 2009 and 2013, the AFL Players Association ‘Leigh Matthews Trophy’ five times, the AFL Coaches Association ‘Player of the Year’ Award three times, Geelong FC Best and Fairest Award twice, Gold Coast FC Best and Fairest Award four times and earning ‘All Australian Team’ honours in eight seasons. Gary, nicknamed the ‘Little Master’, also won two premierships with Geelong in 2007 and 2009, and served as Captain of the Gold Coast Suns between 2011 and 2016.
I am grateful to all across our community who have contributed to this initiative, and to last night’s event. I would especially like to thank our former Head of Sport, Mr Andrew Richardson, our Acting Head of Sport, Mr Matt Murnane, our Events Coordinator Fiona Provan, the Master of Ceremonies for the evening, Mr Wes Cusworth, and our inductees, Tegan and Gary, both of whom were exceptionally generous with their time, and the spirit with which they continue to share of themselves with our CCG family. Thank you.
The Sport Hall of Honour will now serve as a permanent feature within our school, displaying the names, photographs, and achievements of our extraordinary sports stars. This will not only inspire our current students but also serve as a testament to the values and dedication instilled within them during their time at Christian College.
Of note, this was only a first step towards a wider recognition of past CCG students who have achieved elite-level accomplishments in other, non-Sport fields, and our current students who appear well on the way to doing the same. Stay tuned for further information over the coming months and years, as this important part of our College grows.
Daryl Riddle OAM, CEO Christian College
From the Acting Head of Campus
As we step into the fourth and final term of the academic year our focus turns to finishing off the year with high levels of motivation and dedication to our studies.
Our commencement assembly on Tuesday focused on three essential themes that we hope will assist our community to finish the term well with academic success, positive mental health and personal achievement.
Students were reminded that the start of a new term provides a sense of freshness and renewal. It gives all of us a chance to reset and reestablish our goals and directions. It was clearly identified that their educational journey is somewhat like a race, and they are in the final stretch. Even though we are at different stages in this educational journey everyone has a choice on how they choose to finish their journey.
Our Year 12 students finish their official classes on Thursday 12 and return on Friday for their traditional Celebration Day which may provide a sense that the end is near, however, it was reiterated the importance of all of us to maintain our focus and motivation as they have done throughout this academic year. As we enter the final term, we encourage students to continue honing their focus, be it in their studies, extracurricular activities, or personal pursuits.
It was highlighted that their motivation is the driving force behind their achievements. During the year we have witnessed countless instances of students pushing their boundaries, fuelled by their aspirations and passion for learning. In the final term, we must continue to harness this motivation to reach new heights of academic excellence and personal growth.
During the assembly our community was introduced to our new Deputy Head of Campus – Ms Elissa Huddart who will lead the teaching and learning programs at Senior School. Ms Huddart is very excited to be working with our community and presented to the students on making every moment count. We welcome Ms Huddart to this role and wish her well.
The final focus for our campus in Term 4 is a fundamental value that underpins any community and that is respect. To gain deeper insights into the significance of respect, let us turn to the wisdom of the Bible, which offers guidance on how to treat one another with reverence and dignity.
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” – Matthew 7:12 (NIV)
Respect is the cornerstone of a thriving and harmonious community. Throughout the semester we have emphasised the importance of respecting one another’s differences, ideas, and backgrounds. In the final term, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture of respect within our community by ensuring all expectations are followed, we are kind and compassionate and encourage that we seek reconciliation and forgiveness by resolving conflicts with respect and empathy. This will result in an ability to strengthen our relationships and promotes a peaceful environment.
I wish all families and students a successful Term 4 and look forward to celebrating our achievements throughout the term.
Drew Oliver, Acting Head of Campus
Wellbeing Through Exams
As we approach the examination and final assessment season, whether that be VCE exams, final components for the Vocational Major, or assessments in the Australian Curriculum, we understand that it can be a challenging time for both your teenagers and your entire family. To create a positive and supportive environment and help your teenagers thrive during this period, we recommend reading the attached article from Reachout, entitled “5 Ways Parents Can Help Teenagers Study for Exams.”
This article offers practical advice on how parents can contribute to their teenagers’ wellbeing and exam preparation. While the culmination of subjects can be a demanding time, it is essential to remember that it is temporary. By implementing these simple and practical tips and maintaining a supportive atmosphere at home, you can help your teenagers navigate this period successfully.
To read the full article and gain more insights into supporting your teenagers during exams, please click on the link below:
5 Ways Parents Can Help Teenagers Study for Exams
We hope you find this resource valuable.
Jason O’Loughlin, Deputy Head of Campus
Unit 3 and 4 Practice Examinations: A Path to Success
In our ongoing commitment to nurturing and empowering our students, Christian College Senior Campus recently introduced a structured practice examination period spanning three days at the commencement of the September holidays. This initiative is designed to provide our students with an authentic experience of what the actual VCAA examinations will be like. It offers them the opportunity to study, prepare, and sit examinations in the very rooms that will host their final assessments, for the same duration as the official exams, to better equip and support our students as they prepare for their pivotal final year examinations.
Why are we doing this?
The goal of this examination experience is twofold. Firstly, it serves as a platform for students to consolidate their knowledge of the subject matter they have covered throughout the year. Secondly, and equally importantly, it aids in the development of essential examination skills that are crucial for success in their final year examinations.
A Heartfelt Thanks
We want to extend our sincere thanks to every Unit 3&4 student for their dedication and hard work during the Practice Examination period at the Senior School Campus. Your diligence and determination will undoubtedly contribute to your overall success in the VCE.
Reflect and Learn
To our students, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your examination experience. This reflection should encompass not only the content you’ve covered but also the examination skills you’ve acquired. These reflections will prove invaluable as you continue your preparations for the final examinations later this year.
Here are seven key aspects to consider in your self-reflection:
- Revise and Recall: Assess how effectively you revised and recalled information.
- Planning and Preparation: Reflect on your pre-examination planning, such as organising study sessions and planning your exam strategy.
- Study Habits: Examine your study habits, including sleep, nutrition, and physical activity.
- Time Management: Evaluate your time management skills before and during the examination, ensuring you arrived on time and attended the correct session.
- Effective Use of Reading Time: Consider whether you used the allocated reading time efficiently to plan your examination strategy.
- Understanding Exam Rules: Review your understanding of exam rules, including permitted equipment and checking items like your calculator beforehand.
- Appropriate Examination Behaviour: Reflect on your behaviour before, during, and after the examination.
Resources for Your Success
For additional examination and study tips, we encourage you to explore the resources available in the Senior School Hub. It offers valuable insights into study habits and exam strategies that can help you excel in your studies.
As we continuously strive for improvement, we cordially invite feedback and insights from our valued Unit 3&4 learning community – students, staff, and families alike.
Please use the Microsoft form linked below to provide additional comments and feedback about your Practice Examination experience. Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of our educational endeavours.
2023 Unit 3&4 Practice Examination – Feedback Form
Thank you for your support, and we look forward to the continued success of our students at Christian College Senior Campus.
Antony Benson, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning
Wearable Art
Staff and students gathered on the last day of Term 3 to celebrate the spectacular creations showcased in this year’s Wearable Art Parade. The students were asked to respond to the theme of Mental Health, in the hope of continuing to inspire meaningful conversations following R U OK Day.
Second place was awarded to Flynn House who created a powerful design that explored the sense of feeling ‘blue.’ The group captured the feeling of drowning in the pressures of unrealistic standards through an anchor on the skirt, and hundreds of handprints created by Flynn students. A male model was chosen to represent the marginalised issues of men’s mental health. While all House Groups created outstanding Wearable Art, the first prize was ultimately awarded to Penman House. The group members’ personal experiences informed the thought-provoking work that commented on the illusion of the ‘impossible model.’
We wish to thank Anne Smith from Independent Schools Victoria, and former student Charlotte Hunter for being our amazing judges. Thank you to all staff and students who contributed on the day. A very special acknowledgment to Sally Gray and Annemarie Platt whose hard work and efforts made it such a vibrant and successful parade.
Each student who participated should be proud of how they worked with their team to turn an idea into a memorable Wearable Art piece that communicated an important message to our school community.
Chloe Krivan
Flynn House Philanthropy 2023
Flynn House is raising funds for Meli, a local Geelong organisation that supports youth mental health (via their services), as part of the World Mental Health Day on Tuesday October 10. We are asking that students donate a gold coin on Tuesday and wear a blue ribbon to show your support (blue ribbons supplied by your House Mentor). You can find more information on the posters around the campus. Thank you for joining us in this important cause.
Please note that Tuesday will be a normal school uniform day.
Ben Hines, Head of Flynn House
Parents – More Help for Teenagers at Exam Time
As a parent, it’s hard to watch your high schoolers go through stressful times, especially if you want to help but you’re not sure how. One of those times can be the end of the school year, especially if your teen is facing important exams. You can’t do the exams for them, but you can support your young person during this stressful time.
Here are 9 tips by the Study, Work Grow crew that could help: CLICK HERE
Bec Bromilow
Careers Newsletter
Topics this week include:
YEAR 12 STUDENTS
- Important tertiary reminders
- Key tertiary dates
- Entry scheme – artistic performers
- Entry scheme – elite athletes
- Scholarships and accommodation
ALL STUDENTS
- TAFE and polytechnic applications
- Apprenticeship and traineeship pathways
- STEM + VET – inspirational articles
- Free short courses – personal branding and AI
- Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA)
- Summer Schools
- Upcoming career events
Career-News-4-October-2023-Updated
Bec Bromilow
Robyn Smith
College Production 2024 – Update
As published in The Vine at the end of Term 3, the College will be staging Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Broadway Version) at the Geelong Arts Centre from May 2 – 4, 2004.
Audition Registration
All students from Years 5 – 11 (in 2023) across the College will receive an email early next week, with information and a link to an online registration form. Auditions will commence across the College on designated days from Sunday October 22. To register for an audition, students must complete the online form on/by Friday October 13.
There will be an information session held at each campus for students to have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the show. These will be held at:
Highton MS Campus Chapel Monday October 9 12.40
Senior Campus Music Department Tuesday October 10 1.20pm
Bellarine Campus Auditorium Tuesday October 10 at Lunchtime
Surf Coast Campus – Ms Notini will visit the Year 5 classroom next week.
Rehearsal Schedule
All rehearsals will take place at the RW Gibson Centre – Senior Campus with regular weekly rehearsals during Term 1 on Thursdays, 4.00 – 6.30pm and Sundays, 2.30 – 5.00pm. There will also be nominated full days and extended rehearsals, with more detailed information included in the email to be sent to students next week.
To be allocated a part, successful auditionees must be available for the full rehearsal period. We aim to cast approx. 70 students, with over 200 expected to audition. We request families to please consider the implications of their child’s involvement and that a total commitment to the show is required prior to auditioning/accepting a place in the cast. Please do not audition if you are unable to commit to the full rehearsal period.
There will also be opportunities for students to be involved in the production orchestra and a range of backstage tasks. More information about these opportunities will be shared with students as the project progresses.
There will be a large group of staff and visiting tutors working with the students throughout the staging of the production. The initial production staff includes Kelly Clifford – Director, Taylah Broad - Assistant Director, Fiona Gardner - Musical Director, Kate Notini - Vocal Director, Andrew Dunlop, Victoria Kent, Sharon Huber, and Brian Alexander. Students with specific questions are invited to approach the teachers at their campus.
We are looking forward to meeting students from across the campuses at auditions, casting and staging this production for our community.
Fiona Gardner, Musical Director on behalf of the creative team
Foundation Golf Day 2023
Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, we are delighted to announce the Christian College Foundation Golf Day tournament for 2023.
Save the date: Thursday November 9.
We are seeking prizes for this event – if you own a local business and are interested in creating partnership opportunities with Christian College, please contact Fiona Provan on 0400 477 467, or email [email protected]
Uniform Shop Clearance Sale!
