From the Executive Principal
What a joy to have students back on our school campuses. Children and young people really are the lifeblood of schools. I had the wonderful experience on Thursday to meet students at both ends of their educational journeys: Prep students on their first day of school, and Year 12s on their last first day of school. This made me reflect on the incredible journey that each student embarks on from the moment they step through our school gates for the first time to the moment they prepare to step beyond them into the wider world.
For our youngest students, the first day of school is filled with excitement, curiosity, and perhaps a few nerves. It was heartwarming to see their wide-eyed wonder as they explored their classrooms, met their teachers, joined in with singing and playing, and began forming friendships that may last a lifetime. Their enthusiasm reminds us all of the joy of learning and the importance of nurturing a love for discovery from the very start.
At the other end of the journey, our Year 12 students began their final year of schooling—a milestone that comes with a sense of anticipation, determination, and reflection. Speaking with them, I could see both their excitement for the year ahead and their appreciation of how far they have come. They are role models for our younger students, demonstrating resilience, leadership, and a commitment to their goals.
No matter where a student is on their educational path, one thing remains constant: the support of our Christian College school community. As parents, teachers, and staff, we jointly play a vital role in guiding, encouraging, challenging, supporting, and celebrating our students at every stage.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to our parents and caregivers for your partnership in this journey. Your involvement and support are invaluable, and we look forward to working together to ensure that every student has a fulfilling and successful year. I also look forward to meeting you soon. As we embark on this journey together, may we be guided by the wisdom of Proverbs 22:6— “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Let’s make this school year one of growth, achievement, kindness and memorable experiences for all.
Dr Mathilda Joubert, Executive Principal
What’s Happening at Surf Coast?
This an up to date list of planned activities at Surf Coast Campus that you can use for planning purposes. Please be aware that these dates are set early in the term and occasionally items may need to be cancelled or dates/times altered. This itinerary is altered each week to reflect any changes – please check this list of events EVERY WEEK carefully when you read the weekly VINE newsletter.
TERM 1 2025
WEEK 2
Monday 3 Feb School ID Photos – Preps and New students
Wednesday 5 Feb No Preps at School
Friday 7 Feb Buddy Session – Year 4 and Prep Students – Period 1
WEEK 3
Monday 10 Feb Year 7 Camp – Students Departure
Discovery and Learning – Prep Students
Device Information – Parent Night 06.30pm
Wednesday 12 Feb No Preps at School – All Students
Year 7 Camp – Students Return
Friday 14 Feb Leaders Investiture – Year 1 to Year 7
WEEK 4
Tuesday 18 Feb House Swimming Carnival – EdSmart to come – Year 4 to 7 students
Wednesday 19 Feb No Preps at School
Beach Excursion – EdSmart to come Year 2 students
Thursday 20 Feb Welcome Picnic – All welcome – 5.30pm – 7.30pm Surf Coast Campus – more information to come
WEEK 5
Monday 24 Feb Discovery Beach Session – EdSmart to come – 11.30am – 1.00pm Cosy Corner – Year Prep to Year 4 students
Wednesday 26 Feb No Preps at School
Thursday 27 Feb Parent Helper Training Session – more information to come – 2.45pm – all those who wish to participate as class room helpers or parent help on excursions are welcome.
Friday 28 Feb School Assembly – Campus Stadium – Years Prep to Year 4 only
WEEK 6
Tuesday 4 Mar Campus Open Day – More information to come – Open to All
Shrove Tuesday
Wednesday 5 Mar Ash Wednesday
Preps At School
Friday 7 Mar Bible Presentation Assembly – Selected students will be notified– All welcome
World Day of Prayer
WEEK 7
Monday 10 Mar Labour Day Holiday – No Students required at school
Tuesday 11 Mar Swimming Championships – More information to come – Selected Students Only
Wednesday 12 Mar NAPLAN Writing – Year 3, 5 and 7 only
Thursday 13 Mar NAPLAN Reading – Year 3,5 and 7 only
Friday 14 Mar Leaders Investiture – All Students
WEEK 8
Monday 17 Mar NAPLAN – Language Conventions – Year 3, 5 and 7 only
Tuesday 18 Mar NAPLAN – Numeracy – Year 3, 5 and 7 only
Wednesday 19 Mar William Buckley Excursion – EdSmart to come – Year 2 Students
Friday 21 Mar Harmony Day – All Students
WEEK 9
Tuesday 25 Mar Mini Athletics Carnival – More information to come – Year Prep to Year 3 Students
Wednesday 26 Mar Beach Session – EdSmart to come – Period 3 and 4 – Year 1 Students
Friday 28 Mar School Assembly – Stadium – Years 4, 5,6 and 7 only
WEEK 10
Tuesday 1 April House Athletics – EdSmart to come – Year 4,5,6 and 7 Students
Wednesday 2 April GISSA Surfing – EdSmart to come – Selected Year 7 Students only
Friday 4 April Easter Service and Bonnet Parade – More information to come – Prep to Year 6 students only
End of Term 1 – Dismissal at 2.30pm for all students
From the Head of Campus
Welcome to 2025!
As we step into another exciting school year, we extend a heartfelt welcome to all our families—both those returning and those joining us for the first time. It is a joy and a privilege to embark on this journey together, and we look forward to the year ahead with great anticipation.
We are also thrilled to welcome several new staff members to our school community. They bring with them fresh ideas, diverse experiences, and a shared commitment to providing a rich, faith-filled education. Their passion for teaching and nurturing students will further enhance the learning environment and help our young learners thrive.
A special welcome to all the new students joining us this year! We understand that starting at a new school can bring a mix of emotions, but please know you are now part of a caring and supportive community. Our returning students are excited to meet you, build new friendships, and share in the many wonderful experiences that school life has to offer.
As we embark on this new chapter, we encourage families to stay engaged and connected within our school community. Whether it’s volunteering in classrooms, participating in school events, attending parent sessions, or simply offering a helping hand, your involvement plays a vital role in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
Let’s embrace the opportunities this year will bring and work together to make it a positive and memorable experience for our students. We look forward to the many special moments, achievements, and celebrations ahead.
Thank you for your continued support—we’re excited for what this year has in store!
Debbie Riddle, Head of Campus
A new era Begins: Welcoming our First Year 7 Students
Yesterday marked a significant milestone in the journey of our Surf Coast Campus.
With excitement and anticipation, we welcomed our very first group of Year 7 students as they stepped into their new classrooms, officially opening a new chapter in our school’s history.
The atmosphere was one of energy and enthusiasm as students settled into their new learning spaces, ready to embrace the opportunities ahead. Adding to the excitement, our new Food Tech kitchen was also open! This facility will provide students with hands-on learning experiences, helping them develop practical life skills while fostering a love for creativity in the kitchen.
Beyond the classrooms, the friendships and connections that will shape their year are already beginning to form. A highlight of this term will be the Year 7 camp in Week 3, a chance for students to step outside their comfort zones, build strong relationships and create lasting memories together. Through shared experiences and team building activities, they will grow closer as a cohort, strengthening their friendships that will support them throughout their journey.
As they embark on this new stage of schooling, our Year 7 students will be surrounded by a nurturing and caring environment. At Christian College, we are committed to walking alongside them, providing guidance, encouragement, and a deep sense of belonging. Our dedicated staff will support their academic, emotional, and spiritual growth, ensuring that each student feels valued and empowered to flourish.
The start of Year 7 at our Surf Coast Campus is not just the beginning of another school year, it is the start of an exciting new era. We look forward to watching this pioneering group grow, learn, and thrive as they set the foundation for many Year 7 cohorts to come.
Here’s to an incredible journey ahead!
Debbie Riddle, Head of Campus
The Surf Coast Campus Journey
In 2018, our Surf Coast Campus opened its doors with just 11 students, a vision for the future, and a strong sense of community. Fast forward to 2025, and we are now a thriving campus of 312 students, with incredible growth not only in numbers but also in facilities, programs, and opportunities for learning.
From the beginning, our campus was built on the foundations of faith, connection, and a commitment to nurturing each child’s potential. What started as a small group of foundation students and dedicated staff has flourished into a vibrant school community where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
As our student numbers have increased, so too has our infrastructure. Over the years, we have expanded well beyond our original learning spaces. The addition of new classrooms, specialist areas, and recreational facilities has provided students with an enriching and dynamic learning environment. Recent developments, such as our Stadium, upcoming Innovation Centre, and Food Tech room, have further enhanced the opportunities available to our students.
Beyond the buildings, it is the people within them who truly define our campus. The strong bonds between students, staff, and families create a sense of belonging that makes our school unique. We cherish the milestones we have reached together—the Celebration Evening, camps, sports days, and community events that have become treasured traditions.
The journey from 11 to 312 students has been one of faith, dedication, and shared vision. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to providing a nurturing and inspiring learning environment where every child can thrive. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our families, the dedication of our staff, and the enthusiasm of our students, who make Surf Coast Campus such a special place to learn and grow.
Here’s to the next chapter in our journey!
Debbie Riddle, Head of Campus
From The Chaplain…Welcome to 2025!
Hello everyone, and welcome to the 2025 school year!
If we haven’t met, I’m Aaron, and I’m Surf Coast Campus’ Chaplain for 2025.
I hope that your holidays have been an excellent opportunity to spend time with friends, family, and loved ones. I was personally very blessed to be able to spend time down at Wye River over the New Year period, and to enjoy life along the Bellarine and Surf Coast beaches.
As we look forward to 2025, there will be mixed feelings from our students, staff, families, and wider community. New years can bring anticipation and excitement, but there can also be feelings of nervousness or anxiety around what the year ahead may look like.
I know that at Surf Coast Campus, we are blessed to have an excellent support team, that exists to care for the wellbeing of our students, staff, and families. This year we have grown our learning support department, and introduced a Leader of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing, and a Student Wellbeing Officer, all with the intention to support our community with thriving through 2025 and beyond.
My role as a Chaplain will be a little different this year, as my focus will be on faith formation and nurturing, leading the Christian community development at Surf Coast Campus. I will continue to lead prayer groups, studies, services, and assemblies, and I hope to expand the opportunities available for the entire community to grow faith in God.
I will also be working across two campuses this year, Surf Coast and Bellarine. I will be at Surf Coast Campus on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and I will be at Bellarine on Mondays.
If you have any questions around faith formation, or what I offer as a chaplain, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with reception on 5244 8799, and they can forward your call to me, or email me at a.cutter@ccg.vic.edu.au.
I look forward to meeting those of you I haven’t yet, and I eagerly anticipate the rest of 2025.
Numbers 6:24-26
The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Aaron Cutter, Chaplain
Surf Coast Ensembles 2025
Our musical year has already begun here at Surf Coast Campus, with fabulous singing in the assembly today and the sweet sounds of instruments and voices as you walk past the practice rooms. Ensembles will start again next week (Week 2) on the following days. I am really looking forward to getting to know you all and making some great music together.
Stephanie Lawrence
Prepared for Digital Learning in 2025
As students and staff have returned to school this week, ensuring they are prepared for confident and responsible use of digital technologies to support learning has been a high priority. Some Year 7 and Year 10 students have already received their new student devices and other students will receive theirs within the next two weeks.
Whether students are receiving a new device this year (Year 4, 7 and 10) or continuing with their current one, their laptop and other digital technologies will be an important tool in their learning. It’s important that we work together to support them in smart, safe and responsible use.
ICT Policy and Procedures Parent and Student Agreements
Prior to our return to school, parents were asked to accept their annual agreements regarding our ICT Policy and Procedures and the Student Device Program (Year 4-12 parents). Students will complete their own annual agreement in the coming days, alongside some exploration of expectations for safe and responsible use with teachers.
Parents who have not yet completed their ICT agreement are asked to please do so as soon as possible.
Student Device Program Parent Information Evening
We are conscious that for many parents, navigating device use and their children’s wellbeing, safety and responsible use of technology at home can be a challenge. We are committed to partnering with you in supporting our young people in developing strong, positive habits and attitudes towards technology.
All parents from across the College are warmly invited to attend our Student Device Program Parent Webinar on Monday February 10 from 6.30 – 7.15pm.
This event, delivered via Microsoft Teams, aims to provide support to parents of students across Years 4-12, especially those new to our device program or new to our College, and we warmly invite all parents to attend.
College Guidelines for Student Use of Generative AI
We want to partner with parents so that students are equipped to use generative AI in ways that are safe, ethical, and effective.
Last year we offered a parent webinar on generative AI and school which was well attended by parents. The webinar recording is still relevant and available to parents to view. We also have a parent handout with links to our College guidelines and support for student use of generative AI.
Both the webinar recording and information for parents about our College guidelines are available via this link.
Support for Microsoft Teams in Year 4-12 Classes
Many parents will be aware of our use of Microsoft Teams as a digital classroom hub for all classes across Years 4-12.
Students are supported by their teachers to ensure effective use of Teams to enhance learning, and students have access to a student support hub which parents may also find helpful.
Qustodio Parent App
To support our young people to develop positive skills, attitudes and habits regarding technology, we must partner with our parents. It is for this reason that we aim to provide families with resources, guidance, advice and other tools to support this at home.
Most parents will be aware of the Qustodio Parent App that is available to parents to equip them to better supervise and support their young people in their digital journey at home.
Families who have a child who is a new student to the College can expect an invitation via email to register their Qustodio Parent Account as part of our school program. Expect this invitation in the next couple of weeks. More information about the Qustodio Parent App is available via our Online Safety Hub.
Though it’s very early in Term 1, I am thrilled with the positive interactions I have already had with staff, parents and students regarding the use of technology in learning.
I’m excited about the promise and potential of 2025 and invite all parents to take advantage of the opportunities that are available to partner with us in this important aspect of their child’s wellbeing and learning.
Brendan Vanderkley, Director of Digital Learning
Student Device Program Parent Information Evening
A reminder that parents from across the College are warmly invited to attend our Student Device Program Parent Webinar that will occur this coming Monday, February 10 from 6.30pm – 7.15pm.
This event, delivered via Microsoft Teams, aims to provide support to parents of students across Years 4-12, especially those new to our device program or new to our College, though all parents and staff will find the information presented to be helpful.
I warmly invite all members of our community to attend.
Parents who intend to attend are encouraged to RSVP using this link to help us gauge numbers and prepare accordingly.
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