From the Executive Principal
Learning Beyond the Classroom
A recent study by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD, 2024) demonstrated that participation in activities such as arts, clubs, sports, volunteering, and community programs is linked to higher levels of key skills, including:
- Assertiveness – the confidence to speak up, advocate, and lead
- Sociability – the ability to build friendships and work well with others
- Creativity – the capacity to think differently, imagine, and innovate
- Curiosity – the desire to explore, question, and learn deeply
*See the chart in the gallery below. Source: OECD (2024), Social and Emotional Skills for Better Lives: Findings from the OECD Survey on Social and Emotional Skills 2023, OECD Publishing, Paris.
These are not just “nice-to-have” qualities; they are essential capabilities that help young people flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. They also prepare students for a rapidly changing world that demands adaptability, empathy, collaboration, and resilience. Surprisingly, the OECD reports that only a third or fewer of 15‑year‑olds participate regularly in extra-curricular activities where these skills can be nurtured.
As a College we believe in rigorous academic learning, and we recognise that learning can also happen beyond the classroom walls. Some of the most powerful moments of growth can happen on the sports field, in the music room, during a service-learning project, on a camp, through an international exchange, or while caring for animals at Back Creek Farm. These experiences shape the whole child: heart, mind, character, and community connection.
At our school, we want every student to have access to these benefits. That is why we intentionally offer a thriving and diverse program of learning opportunities beyond the classroom. I reviewed the College calendar for this week and I was amazed at the variety of learning experiences available to our young people in a single week. To give you a glimpse, beyond the regular training sessions, rehearsals and activities taking place each week, this week specifically included:
- Swimming carnival for two campuses
- Rehearsal for the College musical
- Overnight camp at Wyuna
- Aquatic swimming program for primary students
- Senior house volleyball
- Outdoor Education Otway Adventure
- Marine Studies snorkelling
- GISSA cricket championships
- Farm rural experience
- Outdoor education canoeing
- An excursion to the You Yangs
- A first nations storytelling incursion
- Presentation ball session
- A lunchtime music concert
- Japan celebration day incursion
- Beach volleyball
- College basketball try-outs
- Surfing
- GISSA tennis championships
- Bible presentations
- Transformation open house
- Drama incursion
- A leadership investiture service, including music performances
These programs help our students discover new passions, build confidence, develop friendships, and create memories that last a lifetime. They also provide vital pathways for students who may not always see themselves reflected in traditional academic measures of success.
As parents and guardians, your encouragement plays a crucial role. When you help your child try a new activity, persist through the early challenges, or commit to a team or ensemble, you are helping them build the very skills that the OECD identifies as foundations for lifelong wellbeing and achievement.
We are deeply proud of the extraordinary breadth of opportunities available at our College, and even more proud of the way our students grow when they step beyond their comfort zones and into new experiences.
I want to thank you for supporting your child to engage, explore, and extend themselves. Together, we are helping them become curious, compassionate, creative, courageous, and connected learners, shaped not only by what they learn in class, but by the rich experiences that sit beyond it.
Dr Mathilda Joubert, Executive Principal
What’s Happening at Surf Coast?
WEEK 6
Tuesday 3 March – Open Day – 11.00am – 1.00pm
Friday 6 March – Junior School Bible presentations – 9.00am
Friday 6 February – Prep Discovery Session to Cosy Corner – 11.30am – 1.00pm
WEEK 7
Monday 9 March – Labour Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 10 March – Geelong North Swimming Championships – Year 4 – 6
Tuesday 10 March – In Person Learning Conferences – Prep to Year 8
Wednesday 11 March – NAPLAN Writing Test – Years 3, 5 & 7
Wednesday 11 March – Cross Campus Instrumental Music Performance Night – Voice (Prep-Yr. 12 selected students)
Thursday 12 March – NAPLAN Reading Test – Years 3, 5 & 7
Thursday 12 March – Online Learning Conferences – Prep to Year 8
Friday 13 March – NAPLAN Language Conventions Test – Years 3, 5, & 7
Friday 13 March – Prep Discovery Session to Cosy Corner – 11.30am – 1.00pm
WEEK 8
Monday 16 March – NAPLAN Numeracy Test – Years 3, 5 & 7
Tuesday 17 March – Surf Coast Campus House Sand & Surf Carnival – Years 5 – 8
Tuesday 17 March – School of Back Then – Year 1
Wednesday 18 March – Cross Campus Instrumental Music Performance Night – Woodwind (Prep-Yr. 12 selected students)
Wednesday 18 March – NAPLAN Tests – Catch up – Years 3, 5, & 7
Potato Olympics
Prep students have been exploring the Winter Olympics. They have discovered where on a world map the Olympics are being held, enthusiastically discussed and acted out some of the incredible sports athletes compete in and looked at pictures of gold, silver and bronze medals.
To extend their learning in a fun and hands-on way, Prep students joined with their Year 4 buddies on Thursday afternoon to take part in their very own ‘Potato Olympics.’ There was a buzz of excitement in the classrooms as the Preps eagerly waited for their Year 4 buddies to arrive, matched only by the enthusiasm of the Year 4 students as they prepared for their first shared activity together.
The afternoon began with happy chatter as the Year 4 and Prep buddies worked creatively together to create a potato ‘athlete’. Year 4 students encouraged the Preps to decorate their potato and assisted them in drawing faces and adding features, resulting in a delightful collection of unique and humorous potato personalities.
Once all the potato athletes were complete, the Olympic events began. In small groups, Prep students rotated through a range of ‘Olympic’ challenges with their buddies, with their potatoes competing against one another. Events included downhill skiing down the ramp and slide, ice skating with spins on the table, luge on the grass hill, curling along the grass, moguls in the sandpit and snowboarding along the balance beams.
It was a wonderful afternoon of creativity, collaboration and fun for all involved. The Year 4 students were fantastic role models for the Preps, and we are already looking forward to our next buddy activity later in the term.
Melissa Smith
Year 1 – Numbers, and Old Geelong
This week in Year 1 has been truly wonderful. The students have been doing incredible work in Mathematics, showing growing confidence with counting on and finding one more/one less. It has been fantastic to see their enthusiasm as they explain their thinking and support one another in solving problems. Their number knowledge is strengthening every day, and they are beginning to apply these skills with greater independence.
In our IDL unit, our students have been completely engaged in learning about history. They have been especially captivated by the videos of old Geelong from the early to late 1900s. It sparked thoughtful discussions about how transport, buildings, clothing and daily life have changed over time. The students showed genuine curiosity and asked insightful questions as they compared the past with the present. It has been a joy to watch their understanding deepen across all areas of learning this week.
Sarah Minge
Year 3 — Persuasive Writing
This term in Writing, our Year 3 students have been developing their persuasive writing skills.
In Library, students read the delightful book If I Had an Octopus, which sparked imagination,
Our classroom quickly filled with creative, thoughtful, and highly convincing arguments.
Students thoroughly enjoyed sharing their imaginative ideas while practising important
Sophie McDonagh
Year 5 Students Shine in Their Transition to Middle School
The start of the school year has been an exciting time for our Year 5 students as they’ve stepped confidently into middle school life here at Surf Coast campus. Moving up from junior school is a big milestone, and we are so proud of how smoothly our students have embraced the change with maturity, enthusiasm and a wonderful sense of community.
To celebrate their success, I spent some time interviewing students to hear their perspectives on the transition. One of the biggest changes they noticed was needing to wear a blazer! Many students shared that the blazer makes them feel more grown-up and responsible. Alongside this came higher behavioural expectations—and students were very honest in recognising that meeting these expectations matters, as there are real consequences if they are not met. They also enjoyed the extra freedom and independence of middle school, including simple joys like sitting on chairs instead of the floor!
Students spoke warmly about their new teachers, describing them as kind, caring and genuinely interested in their ideas. They appreciated that teachers listen to student input and act on it, helping them feel valued and heard in their new learning environment.
Another big adjustment has been staying organised. Students are learning to manage their time and belongings—remembering correct uniforms, charging laptops and preparing for specialist subjects. Many shared that they are proud of how they have kept up with middle school expectations already, showing great responsibility so early in the year.
When asked what advice they would give to our future Year 5 students, their message was clear: “There’s more responsibility, but it’s way more fun too! Just stay organised so you can enjoy everything.” They also reassured our current Year 4 students that middle school teachers are “super nice” and something to look forward to.
It has been such a joy watching our Year 5s grow in confidence over these first weeks—whether in English, Maths, Humanities or settling into new routines. Their positivity, resilience and willingness to try new things have set a wonderful tone for the year ahead. We can’t wait to see all they achieve in 2026!
Michaela Lyons
Turning 1s and 0s into Art: Year 6 Binary Bracelet Project
Our Year 6 Digital Technologies students have been diving into the fascinating world of binary code—and turning their learning into wearable art! This term, students have been exploring how computers communicate using only 1s and 0s, discovering that binary is the foundation of everything from text and images to the apps they use every day.
To bring this concept to life, students created their own binary bracelets, each one representing the initials of their name. Using two different bead colours—one for “0” and one for “1”—they carefully encoded each letter using binary patterns. The result? A colourful display of personalised codes that look fantastic and showcase some clever computational thinking.
In the classroom, students proudly compared their bracelets, compared patterns, and even tried decoding each other’s initials. This hands‑on activity helped them see that binary isn’t just numbers on a screen—it’s a creative and meaningful way to understand how digital systems work.
The excitement in the room was contagious as students wore their bracelets like badges of honour, celebrating the blend of art, technology, and problem‑solving. We’re so proud of their enthusiasm and growing confidence as young digital thinkers!
Adam Stewart
Celebrating Sporting Spirit Across Our Campus
Over the past fortnight, our Year 7 students have thrown themselves into a fantastic stretch of sporting opportunities, beginning with a spirited cross-country event that saw everyone pushing their limits with determination and encouragement. This momentum carried into our vibrant house swimming carnival, held at the Kardinia Aquatic Centre, where Surf Coast students competed alongside peers from Highton in a day filled with colour, cheering, and plenty of personal bests. For those involved in the Year 7 Sport elective, training has been in full swing as we prepare for the upcoming Lightning Premiership, with students showing impressive commitment and teamwork as they build skills for the competitions ahead.
Adrian Bate
Investigating Like Scientists: Year 7 Tackles the Scientific Method!
Year 7 students have been busy stepping into the shoes of real scientists as they explored the skills involved in the scientific method. In our Science lab, students practised making predictions, conducting fair tests, measuring carefully, and recording observations with accuracy. Using equipment such as beakers, thermometers, and measuring cylinders, they worked together to carry out hands‑on experiments—just like the scene in the photo!
The classroom was filled with curiosity as students tested ideas, discussed results, and learned that good science is all about asking questions and thinking critically. It’s been an exciting start to their journey as young investigators!
Adam Stewart
House Swimming Carnival
The annual House Swimming Carnival, held this week at Kardinia Aquatic Centre, was an incredible celebration of athleticism, teamwork, and school spirit. This year marked a special milestone as it was a combined event between the middle and junior schools, bringing together a vibrant community of students, staff, and families.
Students displayed fantastic skill in the water and unwavering house spirit throughout the day. We were fortunate that the weather held, allowing the program to run smoothly with excellent participation in every event.
A highlight of the carnival was the announcement of our fastest swimmers on campus. A huge congratulations to Year 7 student Dane Hornsby, awarded Male Fastest on Campus, and Year 6 student Primrose Baker, our Female Fastest on Campus. Their performances were exceptional and truly inspiring.
The house competition was fiercely contested, with every house giving their all. Congratulations to all houses, whose enthusiasm and sportsmanship made the day memorable. A special acknowledgement goes to our house prefects and house leaders, who led their teams with energy, pride, and excellent organisation.
Final House Results
4th – Taylor: 535 points
3rd – Penman: 713 points
2nd – Burrows: 756 points
1st – Flynn: 784 points
Well done to Flynn House, crowned our overall champions for 2026!
We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Matt Baker, our parent helper for the day, whose support was invaluable. Thank you to all parents and families who attended and cheered from the sidelines—your encouragement means so much to our students.
A big thank you also goes to our dedicated staff and school leaders for their support. And, of course, to our incredible Sports Faculty for their outstanding coordination and the seamless running of the event. Their preparation and professionalism ensured a fantastic experience for all.
The House Swimming Carnival was a tremendous success and a true celebration of community, participation, and school spirit. We look forward to an even bigger and brighter event next year!
Emma Workman
Middle School Bible Presentations
This morning was a joyous occasion as we gathered in the stadium to celebrate a significant milestone for our Year 5s and our new students. Our students were gifted a Bible in College burgundy, that marks a progression in their understanding of Scripture, and the importance of the words within the Bible. This special moment, shared in the presence of their families, friends, and teachers, will be a meaningful step in the faith journey of each student.
On behalf of Surf Coast Campus, we would like to thank Mia Kafieris, College Dean of Christian Culture, who presented each of the students with their Bibles.
These new Bibles will become an integral part of our students’ learning, supporting them in their Devotions and Christian Education lessons as they explore faith, reflect on Scripture, and grow in their understanding of God’s love. They will also, ultimately, remain a gift that we hope our students will keep for life, and that their Bibles are a constant reminder and resource to grow in their relationship with God. This past week, I’ve chatted with multiple staff members who have fond memories of their College Bibles, and I hope to hear the same from future staff members who might be current students!
It was truly uplifting to see the joy and gratitude on the students’ faces as they received their Bibles and marked the beginning of a new chapter in their spiritual journey. We pray that these Bibles will serve as a cherished companion to each student, guiding them in their faith and shaping their hearts and minds for years to come.
Aaron Cutter
Recording and Resources: Student Device Program Information Evening
It was a pleasure to join other College leaders in our recent Monday evening session about the College Device Program, our Cyber Safe Schools Program, how the device supports learning, and support and resources for parents at home. It was wonderful to see so many parents and families represented in this online session.
The event, delivered via Microsoft Teams, aimed 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 have found the information presented to be helpful.
Session Recording
Parents and members of our community who were unable to attend may like to review a recording of the session we have made available via the link below.
Device Program and Digital Wellbeing Parent Resources
During the session we also shared a link to some parent resources we have prepared to support you and your family at home.
Access the parent resources handout
Qustodio Email Invitations for New Students
All families with a new student joining Christian College in 2026 will by now have received an invitation to activate their Qustodio parent account and/or add the new student to their account. Qustodio is a fantastic tool we can offer our parent community as part of our Cyber Safe Schools Program.
Learn more about Qustodio on our Online Safety Hub
We look forward to continuing to journey and partner with our parents in support of our young people in this digital space throughout this year.
Brendan Vanderkley, Director of Digital Learning
The Science Behind ‘Good Enough’ Parenting – Maggie Dent
This week, the Wellbeing Team is delighted to share a thought-provoking episode from The Imperfects podcast that’s packed with practical insights for anyone navigating the ups and downs of parenting.
Featured guest Maggie Dent is one of Australia’s most respected parenting educators, authors and speakers, bringing more than three decades of experience supporting families, educators and communities. A former teacher and counsellor, and often affectionately referred to as “The Queen of Common Sense,” Maggie offers a compassionate, grounded approach to raising resilient, emotionally healthy children especially boys.
Maggie is the author of several influential parenting books, including Saving Our Sons and From Boys to Men, and is a regular media commentator, podcast host and keynote speaker. Her work focuses on child development, behaviour, adolescence, cyber-safety, and strengthening parent–child relationships through connection, empathy and clear boundaries. Drawing on research as well as lived experience as a mother of four sons, she provides real-world guidance that empowers adults to better understand and support young people in a rapidly changing world.
In the recent Imperfects episode titled “Good Enough Parenting is Good Enough,” Maggie joins hosts Hugh, Ryan and Josh to explore what it truly means to be a “good enough” parent. She reminds listeners that perfection isn’t the goal that being a present, responsive caregiver 30–40 % of the time is supported by research and can make a meaningful difference.
Highlights from the episode include:
- Why the concept of “good enough” parenting matters and how it alleviates pressure on caregivers
- Developmental insights into raising boys and young men
- The importance of unconditional love and the “no matter what” connection rule
- Conversations about screens, social media and modern family life
- The power of small micro-connections in everyday moments
- Addressing shame, lightness and letting go of the perfect-parent myth
- Supporting neurodiverse children within a family context
This episode is a truly insightful and, at times, humorous listen for anyone who is raising or working with boys or young men and for parents everywhere reminding themselves that good enough really can be enough.
The episode also includes discussion of mental health challenges facing young men, including references to suicide and mental health decline. While handled with care and compassion, listeners may wish to be mindful of this content.
Maggie Dent - The Science Behind 'Good Enough' Parenting - The Imperfects
Maggie Dent - Home | Resources for those who live & work with children
The Wellbeing Team: Kate Hickey, Amy Cornwell, Tanya Whitmore and Angelina Russell
Australian Music Examination Board - Sound Insights Day!
Students learning an instrument may enjoy the AMEB Sound Insights Day at Melbourne Recital Centre during the school holidays on Tuesday 14 April 2026.
This unique series of AMEB workshops, master classes and showcase concerts at MRC will provide learners with the chance to hear AMEB repertoire live, join the discussion of pieces, and gain essential exam insights. Students can also join throughout the day at AMEB Quiz Corner for a series of musical challenges and a chance to win some fantastic prizes, including Manhasset music stands valued at $160.
With sessions featuring professional performers and AMEB examiners Kristian Chong, Josephine Vains, and Johanna Selleck, plus composers Calvin Bowman, Aaron Wyatt and Carolyn Morris, the AMEB Sound Insights Day is a must for all ages and musical levels.
Student tickets are $10, with a 15% discount when you attend more than one event.
For more information and to book, visit:
https://www.melbournerecital.com.au/whats-on/series/ameb-sound-insights-day
Fiona Gardner, Director of Music
CC Eagles Basketball – Winter 2026 Season
Do you have a keen basketball player in your family? Or are you new to basketball and want to know more?
As one of the largest Basketball Clubs in Geelong, the Bellarine and Surf Coast, the CC Eagles is able to provide the appropriate competition for all our players, with a wide range of levels and age groups for boys and girls.
The CC Eagles currently have 7 teams that play as part of the Surf Coast Basketball Association competition at stadiums in and around Torquay. You do not have to attend Christian College to play for the CC Eagles, we welcome all players at all levels of ability to join our teams.
The winter basketball season is played over Term 2 and 3. We will be holding a Come and Try Clinic for new players looking to join the CC Eagles as follows:
Date: Saturday 14th March
Location: Christian College Surf Coast Indoor Basketball Court
Time: 2.00pm for U/9 and U/10 Boys and Girls
3.00pm for U/12 and U/14 Girls
4.00pm for U/12 and U/14 Boys
These sessions will be staffed by our Head Coach, Lachie Vallance, as well as other experienced CC Eagles Coaches. This is the perfect opportunity for your child to come and have a go, but also for experienced players to meet with our Coaches and discuss teams and opportunities for the winter season.
The CC Eagles provides a supportive, inclusive and fun basketball atmosphere for boys and girls. With the benefit of having a “home court” at the Christian College Surf Coast Campus, we are able to provide a dedicated court for team training and additional development sessions.
If you are interested in playing for the CC Eagles this winter and would like further information or are not able to attend the Come and Try Clinic, please get in touch with Edwina Norgard at cceagles@ccg.vic.edu.au
Edwina Norgard
All-Star Kids at CCG
Hot Cross Buns
With Lent underway and Easter just around the corner, it’s the perfect time for a little seasonal indulgence that also does a whole lot of good. Christian College Geelong is excited to partner with Ket Baker and Gluten Free4U to bring our community a delicious selection of locally made hot cross buns, all while supporting the Christian College Geelong Foundation.
Why Your Purchase Matters
Every pack purchased contributes directly to the Foundation, and thanks to a generous anonymous donor, all contributions will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact.
Ket Baker 6 pack – $15
(Normally $20 retail)
- Classic
- Chocolate (includes fruit)
- Chocolate (fruitless)
- Spiced (fruitless)
$6 donated per pack, matched to $12
Gluten Free4U 6packs - $15
- Sultana
- Plain
- Chocolate Chip
$3.45 donated per pack, matched to $6.90
Order
All orders are due by the 19th of March 2026.
Please click here to order.
Collection Information
- Orders will be available for collection from your selected Christian College campus from 1st of April 2026.
- You will receive an email notification once your order has arrived, including details on where to collect your items.
Tennille McInnes, Foundation Manager
Open Day – March 3
The first of our Open Days for 2026 is on Tuesday March 3. Each of our campuses and kindergartens will open their doors for interested parents/families and students to take a tour of facilities, meet students, staff and campus leaders. Because we run our Open Days on a regular school day, they have the opportunity to see some of our teaching and learning programs firsthand.
We encourage all Christian College families with friends, colleagues or other acquaintances that might be interested in a Christian College education for their children to spread the word about our campuses opening on March 3.
Campus opening times are as follows:
Junior School-Belmont 9:15 – 10:45 am
Williams House Kindergarten 9:15 – 10:45 am
Middle School-Highton 9:15am – 11:15am
Senior School-Waurn Ponds 9:30 am – 11:00am
Bellarine Campus 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Surf Coast Campus 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Butterfield House Kindergarten 9:30 – 11:00am
All are welcome on the day. We encourage anyone intending to attend to visit our website and use the hotlink at the top of the homepage to register their interest to keep updated.
International Women’s Day – You’re Invited!
Christian College Geelong warmly invites all students, staff, families and alumni to join us in celebrating International Women’s Day at our complimentary breakfast event, Balance the Scales, on Friday, 6 March 2026 at 7:20am.
We look forward to a meaningful morning of connection, reflection, and inspiration as we hear from our guest speaker, Catherine Bell, a leadership and organisational development consultant, respected advocate for positive cultural change, and proud Christian College alumna.
Click here to register your interest to help with planning, but everyone is welcome on the day. Please note: a light breakfast will be provided.
Guest Speaker – Catherine Bell (Alumna, Class of 1993)
Catherine Bell brings more than 20 years’ experience across government, business, and the not-for-profit sector. A former CCG School Captain, Catherine is a Fellow of the Australian HR Institute, an internationally credentialed coach, and holds a Master of Applied Positive Psychology.
Through her work with Bell Training Group, and in partnership with Buy One Give One, Catherine has contributed to over 400,000 positive global impacts, driven by her belief that great leadership can transform schools, workplaces, communities, and the world.
Raffle Tickets
Cost: $5 each
All funds raised will support the Christian College Geelong Foundation, helping to transform lives through the gift of education.
Tennille McInnes
Future Student Enrolments
Please note, across our campuses we have now commenced sending enrolment offers for 2027. We ask that all families with future siblings wishing to attend Christian College, please confirm their child is enrolled or use this link Christian College Geelong | Christian College Geelong to commence the process.
To confirm your child’s Enrolment, please phone or email the relevant campus(es).