Surf Coast Term 1 Week 4

From the Executive Principal

One of the areas about which I am most passionate as I enter my sixth week as Executive Principal is understanding and contemplating exactly what characterises Christian College’s approach to educating our students. We offer a multitude of programs from K-12, focusing on many aspects of young people’s development and wellbeing – academic and intellectual, creative, spiritual, physical and mental. Christian values lie at the core of our organisation – so, what are we aiming to achieve in delivering a Christian College education to our students?

A discussion around this unfolded in a meeting this week with our Marketing and Publications Manager Simon Garner, and representatives of the Geelong Advertiser, Editor Nadja Fleet and journalist Greta Lannen.

We talked about aiming to strike that balance between academic rigour and a culture where students strive for excellence in all their learning; and nurturing good character and fostering a desire in students to be positive difference-makers in their worlds. You can be a brilliant doctor, lawyer, engineer, electrician, plumber, artist, childcare worker, musician or gardener – and be someone with the character, drive and yearning to make a positive difference to people’s lives in all sorts of ways. It does not need to be a choice. For us as educators, a critical part of hitting the ‘sweet spot’ in our approach is to ensure that our academic and other programs, and our learning environments, consistently promote a sense of agency and of students having a voice.

From the Vice Principal

The new school year is well and truly underway, and it is wonderful to see the eagerness with which our students have embraced their 2025 learning journey. This was particularly evident for me earlier in the week when I dropped in to Mr Horman’s Year 3 Music class at Junior School Belmont, where students were learning recorder skills in the outdoors. The joy on their faces as they played their notes, the laughter as they worked together to master their melodies, and the support they showed one another was a tremendous reminder of the power of learning in a collaborative and encouraging environment.

It is my great privilege to serve as the Vice-Principal – Teaching and Learning at our College in 2025. I am deeply passionate about ensuring each student experiences an enriching, high-quality education that nurtures their growth and development. I want to make sure that we remain dedicated to our Christian College philosophy, fostering a holistic education – one that “develops the spiritual, intellectual, physical, and emotional capacity of students as part of their total character.” These values lie at the heart of our community and guide our approach to teaching and learning.

Navigating Digital in the Home Safely

As a College we acknowledge the real opportunities, risks and challenges presented by digital technologies, social media, gaming and online in the home, and we wish to work with all parents, carers, students and families to foster safe and positive digital behaviour in our community.

Our intention with our Device Program Parent Information Session on Monday last week was to equip and support parents with knowledge and advice to help, especially with management of the school laptop in the home.

This coming Monday (February 24) marks the start date for when Year 4 students might begin to bring the College laptop home, though the actual start date may vary between campuses.

The lead time between our information evening and this coming Monday has been to allow parents and carers time to prepare as needed – especially for many of these families where the school device may be their child’s first personal device.

We are all blessed with some wonderfully helpful and empowering parent guides both from the Office of the eSafety Commissioner and on our own Online Safety Hub.

For all parents and carers across the College, from Kinder through to Year 12, I’d like to highlight four specific guides that I think you’ll find helpful – whether your young person is about to bring their first device home or has had a personal device for some time.

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 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

Surf Coast Family Picnic

On Thursday evening, our school lawn was filled with families and friends for the annual Family Welcome Picnic. With pleasant weather and a relaxed atmosphere, it was a lovely way to start the new school year and connect with our community.

Families set up picnic blankets while children enjoyed face painting and live music. There was plenty of laughter and conversation between parents and teachers. It was great to see both familiar faces and new families joining in the fun.

Families took the opportunity to sit together, share meals, and enjoy the evening at a leisurely pace.

The Family Welcome Picnic was a wonderful way to bring our school community together. The event highlighted the friendly and welcoming spirit that makes our school special.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make it a great day. We look forward to more opportunities to connect throughout the year!

Our Preps are off to a flying start!

Our Prep students have had an incredible start to their school journey!

Throughout the term, our Preps have been busy learning letters and letter sounds and have even been going on special “sound hunts” to find them. The children have also enjoyed learning about how to pull words apart and squish them back together when saying them, as well as listening out for words that rhyme, adding a fun twist to their literacy lessons.

Our Preps have also been exploring the world of numbers. We are deep into our exciting countdown to the 100th day of school (already in the teens!), making each day a step closer to this special milestone. We have also been practising our days of the week each day.

The children have also illustrated beautiful self-portraits and family portraits, showcasing their creativity and artistic skills.

One of the highlights of our Preps’ first few weeks of school has been meeting their Year 4 buddies. These new friendships have provided our Preps with wonderful role models to look up to and a fantastic sense of belonging in the school community. Our Preps also had the opportunity to spend time with the Year 6 students recently, who needed their help with a big project they are working on. This collaboration was a fantastic experience for both the Preps and the older students.

It has been a HUGE first few weeks of school, and our Prep students should be incredibly proud of themselves. They have shown enthusiasm, curiosity, and resilience, setting a positive tone for the rest of the school year. Here’s to many more exciting adventures and learning experiences ahead in 2025!

Year 1 – A Week of Curiosity and Deep Thinking

This week in Year 1 has been filled with curiosity and deep thinking as we continue our learning about families and different structures. The students have been asking insightful questions to learn more from previous generations, sparking meaningful conversations about how family life has changed over time. It has been wonderful to see their enthusiasm in discovering stories from the past and making connections to their own experiences.

In Maths, our exploration has been just as exciting! The children are fully engaged in practicing their skills through fun and interactive games. Daily reviews have helped reinforce key concepts, and it’s great to see their confidence growing with each session. Their eagerness to learn and willingness to challenge themselves has made for a fantastic week.

Year 2 – History and PE @ Cosy Corner

The interdisciplinary curriculum requires interconnections of First Nations Australians to a local Country or place. We have been loving working on this curriculum area through our learning about William Buckley and this was the central topic for our discovery excursion to Cosy Corner this week. Students ran in the fresh air as they explored the natural environment that William Buckley once explored. They also investigated the many natural resources that William Buckley might have eaten or used as part of his survival before encountering the Wathawurrung tribe. 

Afterwards the Year 2s enjoyed a beach PE lesson with Mrs Richardson, running relay races and playing games in the sea air.

Year 3 – Rounding out the week!

We are in full swing in our learning and activities in Year 3, especially in Maths where we have been exploring rounding numbers to nearest 10, 100 and 1000.

Students have explored the concept through a range of hands on activities using jumbo playing cards, dice, lining up, number lines and number charts to help consolidate their understanding. We have also learned through song and students now know a catchy rap to help remind them of how to round. They may even give you a performance at home!

Year 4 – What is your story?

This week, our Year 4 students have enjoyed exploring the meaning behind different indigenous artworks and the symbols used. They have been introduced to the concept that indigenous art tells stories and allows for teaching and cultural understanding to be passed down from generation to generation.

As well as looking at artwork, students have learnt about a number of sacred sites spread all across Australia where rock art and engravings are found. They were amazed to learn that at Ubirr in Kakadu, images show the now-extinct Tasmanian Tiger, evidence of its existence on the Australian mainland.

Students were then encouraged to consider the big question, “What is your story?” They used traditional and self-created symbols to share their family stories. Colour choices and layouts were thoughtfully considered to ensure a piece of work that truly represented them and their ancestry.

We are looking forward to sharing our artwork with our families.

Year 5 and 6 Students Explore Natural Disasters at the Science Discovery Dome

On Wednesday, the Year 5 and 6 students were treated to an exciting and immersive incursion at the Science Discovery Dome, where they delved deep into the fascinating world of Natural Disasters. As part of their ongoing studies in class, this experience offered a unique, hands-on opportunity to extend their learning in a super fun and engaging way.

The students were captivated as they explored a range of natural disasters, including earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanoes, and tsunamis. The interactive displays and 360-degree dome projection made the experience feel incredibly real, allowing the students to virtually “witness” these powerful events in a safe and controlled environment.

Year 6 Students Lead the Way in Peer Mediation

Our Year 6 students are stepping into a new leadership role as they learn the valuable skills of peer mediation. This initiative is designed to empower students with the ability to support their peers in resolving conflicts in a constructive and respectful manner.

As part of their training, students are developing conflict resolution strategies, honing their effective listening skills, and learning how to reframe statements to foster positive communication. Through interactive activities and role-playing scenarios, they are building the confidence and competence needed to mediate real-life situations in the schoolyard.

Once fully trained, our Year 6 peer mediators will act as a valuable resource for younger students, helping them navigate minor disputes and find fair solutions. By fostering a culture of understanding, respect, and problem-solving, these student leaders will play a crucial role in creating a positive and inclusive school environment.

We are incredibly proud of our Year 6 students for embracing this responsibility and look forward to seeing the positive impact of peer mediation across our school community!

A Marvellous Start to Year 7!

The Year 7 students have hit the ground running with an exciting and action-packed start to the school year. From adventure-filled camps to inspiring music performances, the past few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity, connection, and growth.

One of the highlights so far was our Year 7 camp, where students stepped out of their comfort zones and embraced a variety of challenges. Whether working together in team activities, or simply spending quality time with friends, the camp provided an invaluable opportunity for students to strengthen friendships and build resilience. It was wonderful to see so many students supporting and encouraging one another as they tackled new experiences.

The energy continued back on campus with our annual Swimming Carnival. The event showcased the impressive skill and dedication of our talented swimmers, with many students diving in to compete. For those who preferred to stay on dry land, the day was just as exciting—cheering for friends, supporting their Houses, and embracing the fun-filled spirit of the carnival. Additionally, for our keen runners, the optional Cross Country trials gave students the chance to push themselves and test their endurance.

Physical Education at Surf Coast

Term One, 2020 and we’re already half way through!

It’s been a pleasure getting to know all the new Prep students and great to see the returning, grown up Year Ones and Twos.

Over the past 5 weeks, the students have been focusing on the ‘Fundamental Motor Skills’ (FMS) of ‘Locomotion’. This includes running, leaping and dodging.

During our lessons, we discuss when and how these skills are used in various sports so the students gain an understanding of the importance of developing their F.M.S. The components of each skill is broken down to highlight how each is linked to establish good technique and efficient movement patterns. Individual practice is followed by small group activities, or a minor game is played incorporating the developing skill.

Year 7 Music Discovery Excursion to Senior Campus

Try an instrument – 2 free trial lessons

On Thursday this week all Year 7 students from Highton, Bellarine and Surf Coast Campuses attended a Music Discovery Concert at the RW Gibson Centre. Following this experience students are being offered two free trial instrumental lessons. Please contact the Christian College Music department administration to express interest and for more information regarding these lessons.  music.admin@ccg.vic.edu.au

The Year 7 students were a wonderful audience at the Music Discovery Concert, and the Senior Students really enjoyed the opportunity to perform and inspire them to join the CCG music community.

The Senior Choir, Strings and Wind Symphony played a broad range of repertoire including classical, pop and even Disney movie themes. Senior student musicians also shared their experiences and highlights of being involved in the music program.

They shared things such as:

• The fun and excitement they experience rehearsing and performing together.
• The friendships they have made across year levels through belonging to a choir, band or string orchestra
• The lifelong memories they have from special times at music camps and on Music Performance Tours.

March 15 – Come and Visit Back Creek

Discover – or Rediscover – the Year 9 Experience!

Christian College students and families – past and present – are warmly welcomed to visit Back Creek Farm tomorrow, March 15, as the gates open between 9:30am and 12:30pm. It’s a great opportunity for younger students and their families to catch a glimpse of the rural experience in store when they reach Year 9. It’s also a great opportunity for past students and their families wanting to revisit the farm, including those ex-students who’d love to show their own children Back Creek Farm. Guided tours of the property, morning tea and a sausage sizzle, will be available – lots to see and do for everyone. The event is free but if you’re coming and haven’t yet done so, please click here to book through Try Booking – and see you in Scotsburn tomorrow!

Hot Cross Buns are Coming!

There’s nothing better than a hot cross bun with crispy edges, melted butter and good friends and family to share them with!

With the season of Lent and celebration of Easter fast approaching Christian College is delighted to announce that we are partnering with our local Baker’s Delight to bring hot cross buns to our community this year. This is an opportunity for you to purchase hot cross buns for your family, friends, as Easter gifts or cheekily for your freezer to enjoy all year long while also joining the Foundation in our fund-raising goals for this year.

The Christian College Foundation exists to raise funds to support students and families experiencing disadvantage and hardship. The Foundation also funds new initiatives which enhance the educational programs and offerings for current and future students.

Compass – Change is Coming

At Christian College, we are committed to continually improving the experience for our students and families. Therefore, a robust and efficient Learning Management System (LMS) is essential for streamlining operations and effectively managing the complexities of a school of our scale.

Since 2014, Christian College has used SEQTA as our Learning Management System (LMS), providing support for key areas of school life such as student information, attendance, pastoral care, and assessment. Parents will be familiar with SEQTA Engage as our current portal.

As our school continues to grow and evolve, we have identified the need for a more advanced and integrated LMS to better support students, staff, and parents. After an extensive 18-month selection process, we have chosen Compass, a platform that will provide a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for our whole community.

Open Day – March 4 – Be Inspired!

Christian College will run two Open Days during 2025 – on March 4 and May 8. During the week of the May 8 Open Day, some campuses may also run Discover Prep sessions.

Our first Open Day on March 4 sees all five campuses and two kinders opening their doors and offering the opportunity for prospective parents, guardians and families who might be considering our College as an option for their child(ren), to see us ‘in action’. Our Open Days run on regular school days so visitors are able to tour, meet students, teachers and campus leaders, see real classes in real time and have their questions answered – no booking is required.

Information about our Open Days, and the times when each of our campuses and kinders are open on March 4, is all contained on our website – accessed via the hotlink on our website homepage (see image below) – click here for a direct link to it. We have scheduled times on the day to make it possible for parents and guardians to visit more than one campus if they desire.

We would encourage all our current families to spread the word about our March 4 Open Day among friends, colleagues and others in your network who may be specifically interested in enrolling their child(ren) at Christian College, or who may just be in the process of considering and comparing different schools in our region. Our Open Days are a wonderful opportunity to see firsthand our unparalleled teaching and learning programs happening on a regular school day, to meet staff and students and find out more about the many benefits of a Christian College education.

2025 Young Women in Aerospace and Defence

Young Women in Aerospace and Defence is a free four-day STEM program hosted by RMIT. It is open to girls in Years 7 to 12 and will run three times this year during the school holidays: April 7 – 10; July 7 – 10; and September 29 – October 2.

For more details, including how to apply, please read the brochure below.

Interested in Volunteering at CCG in 2025? 

Christian College appreciates the support provided by all volunteers. Around our campuses there is a range of activities in and out of the classroom where we are greatly assisted by parent/guardian volunteers. Many of the College’s programs would not exist or continue without their support. 

Our College community relies upon the skills that each volunteer can provide. Staff at each campus will communicate the different opportunities open to parent/guardian volunteers, such as excursions, camps and other events. 

To engage with us as a parent/guardian volunteer, you will need a current Working With Children Check (these are valid for five years). To ensure all volunteers are aware of, and agree to, the conditions of working as a volunteer, Christian College requires each volunteer to sign this agreement prior to commencing work. A new completed form is required each school year.  

Click on this link to download a Parent Volunteer Agreement form. Once downloaded, it can be completed electronically, including a digital signature, and then uploaded using the button provided.