From the Executive Principal
It has been a truly joyous week across Christian College Geelong, with students and staff embracing a wide range of experiences, celebrations, and opportunities for connection.
Across all campuses, Reconciliation Week was observed with great enthusiasm and reflection. Students engaged in a variety of activities designed to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, fostering respect, awareness, and a commitment to reconciliation. It was wonderful to see our community come together to celebrate culture and strengthen cross-cultural understanding.
At the Senior School, students marked Careers Week with great enthusiasm. A highlight of the week was the opportunity to hear from inspiring alumni guest speakers who shared their post-school journeys and offered valuable insights into diverse career pathways. The careers expo provided students with practical information and connections, while the careers dress-up day added a fun and creative dimension, with students (and staff) showcasing career aspirations.
Meanwhile, our Junior School campuses and libraries joined in the nationwide celebration of National Simultaneous Storytime. Millions of children across Australia read the same book at the same time, creating a shared literary experience. This year’s story, “Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller” by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd, captured our imagination. I also enjoyed spending some time at Junior School learning how to draw the character Luna Roo with instructions from illustrator Jake A. Minton. It was a joyful celebration of reading, creativity, and the power of storytelling.
Student engagement in civic life continued to flourish, with Surf Coast Year 6 and Senior School Year 11 students travelling to Canberra this week to deepen their understanding of Australia’s political system and national identity. Back on campus, I had the pleasure of observing a group of our Year 12 Politics students participate in a dynamic Question-and-Answer session with Bev McArthur MP, Member of the Victorian Legislative Council. We were also delighted to welcome alumnus John McClure, who is currently studying at the University of Melbourne and working part-time in Ms McArthur’s office. It was inspiring to witness our students engaging in thoughtful discussion and lively debate, demonstrating both confidence and critical thinking.
The week has also been filled with a wide range of co-curricular activities and sporting achievements. Students competed in a Cross-Campus Chess Tournament, showcasing strategic thinking and focus. Our teams also represented the College in interschool debating, as well as GISSA and SSAV competitions in golf, AFL, and cross-country running. Many of our students shone on the sports field, demonstrating skill, teamwork, and determination. In addition, our early morning Elevate Basketball Coaching sessions are very popular, providing students with excellent opportunities to develop their skills before the school day begins.
All in all, it has been a week that truly reflects the vibrant life of Christian College Geelong, marked by learning, celebration, service, and achievement. I hope you enjoy the updates in this week’s Vine.
Dr Mathilda Joubert, Executive Principal
What’s Happening at Surf Coast?
WEEK 7
Monday 1 June – Indonesian Dance Excursion – Year 8 – 11.00am – 1.00pm
Monday 1 June – Responsible Pet Ownership Incursion – Prep & Year 1 students
Tuesday 2 June – GISSA AFL Championships – Junior Female (selected students in Yer 7 & 8)
Wednesday 3 June – GISSA Interschool Sport – Year 7 & 8 – 1.00pm – 3.25pm
Thursday 4 June – Native Animal Incursion – Year 5
Thursday 4 June – Godspell Music Excursion – Year 6 – 11.00am – 1.00pm
Thursday 4 – 6 June – Senior School Musical Production – Godspell
Friday 5 June – Middle School Assembly
Friday 5 June – Prep Bush Discovery Session – 11.30am-1.00pm
WEEK 8
Monday 8 June – Public Holiday – No students at school
Wednesday 10 June – First Responders Day – Project Care Event
Wednesday 10 June – GISSA Yr. 7 & 8 Interschool Sport– 1pm – 3.25pm
Thursday 11 June – 2026 Surf Coast Campus House Athletics – Goldsworthy Reserve, Corio
Prep – Year 3 students dep. 11.00am, Year 4 – Year 8 students dep. 9.00am
Friday 12 June – Junior School Assembly – 9.00am
Friday 12 June – Combined Junior Strings Rehearsal at the Bellarine Campus – 8.45am – 3.25pm
Friday 12 June – Lunchtime Music Concert – Stadium Music Room – 1.00pm (selected students)
WEEK 9
Monday 15 June – Ancient China Day – Year 4
Monday 15 June – Back Creek Farm Excursion – Year 8 – 9.00am – 3.00pm
Tuesday 16 June – National Wool Museum Excursion – Year 2 – 9.00am – 3.25pm
Wednesday 17 June – GISSA AFL & Soccer Championships – Selected Year 7 & 8 students
Thursday 18 June – Carnival Day – Netball at Kardinia Park – 9.00am
Thursday 18 June – Japanese Cooking Day – Year 4 – 11.30am-1.00pm
Thursday 18 June – Big Strum Lunchtime concert – 1.00pm
Friday 19 June – Whole Campus Assembly – 9.00am
Friday 19 June – Last day of Term – Dismissal 3.30pm
Community Connections Bring Learning to Life
As part of our special Integrated Learning (IDL) unit on Communities, our Prep students have been blessed to welcome some inspiring members of our local community into the classroom. These real-life experiences have helped bring our learning to life in meaningful and memorable ways.
We were excited to begin with a visit from Firefighter Shaun, who taught us all about the important role firefighters play in keeping our community safe. Students learned about the difference between safe and unsafe fires, explored Shaun’s protective firefighting gear, and were amazed to discover that firefighters have just 90 seconds to be ready and in the truck once the alarm sounds. That’s some impressively quick action!
Next, we welcomed Rachel the Paramedic, who arrived with an ambulance for us to explore. Students had the opportunity to look inside the ambulance and learn about the equipment used to help people in emergencies. Rachel also showed us how to wrap bandages and place arms in slings, giving our Preps a hands-on glimpse into the caring and practical side of her work. On Wednesday, we were visited by Sarah, who introduced us to the world of law. She explained what it means to be a lawyer in a fun and accessible way, even bringing along a gavel and teaching us about the phrase “Order in the court!”. Her visit helped students understand how rules and fairness are important in our community. We are looking forward to even more exciting visits in the coming days, including a police officer, doctors, and other community helpers. These experiences are helping our students develop a deeper appreciation for the many people who contribute to keeping our community safe, healthy, and supported. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the family members and friends who have generously given their time to share their knowledge and experiences with our Preps. Your contributions are making a lasting impact on our students’ learning.
Nereda Welsh
Year 2 Authors at Work
The Year 2 students have been doing a wonderful job in their English lessons this term! We have been enjoying reading Fantastic Mr Fox together and the students have shown great enthusiasm and understanding of the story. Each week, they have been completing a variety of comprehension questions to help build their reading and thinking skills. The students have worked hard to answer questions carefully and explain their ideas using evidence from the text.
This week, we also began learning about letter writing. The students had lots of fun exploring different ways authors and characters communicate through letters. Inspired by The Day the Crayons Quit, the children wrote creative letters as if they were one of the crayons who had decided to quit. They used wonderful imagination to explain the crayons’ feelings and complaints.
We also read Can I Be Your Dog? and wrote letters back to Arfy the dog. The students carefully thought about whether Arfy could come and live at their house, and they explained their reasons using thoughtful and persuasive writing. Some letters welcomed Arfy warmly, while others kindly explained why he could not stay with them.
We are very proud of the effort, creativity, and enthusiasm the Year 2 students have shown in their English learning!
Sarah Dean
Year 4 Pyjama Day
Our Year 4 students recently enjoyed a very special Pyjama Day as a reward for their consistently impressive behaviour and positive attitude towards their learning. It was wonderful to see everyone arrive at school snug and comfortable, ready to enjoy a well-deserved day.
While the day had a relaxed feel, students remained engaged in meaningful learning experiences. A highlight of the day was our Minecraft build challenge, which connected directly to our current Dynasties of China unit. Working in small groups, students were challenged to recreate significant landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors.
Each group was provided with a description of their chosen site, along with helpful tips to guide their designs and ensure their builds were as realistic as possible. Students demonstrated fantastic teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills as they collaborated to bring these historical landmarks to life in a digital environment.
It was a fantastic day of learning, creativity, and celebration—well done, Year 4!
Kate Rice
Year 6 in the Nation’s Capital
Our Year 6 Canberra Camp was an unforgettable experience and an incredible opportunity for students to bring their classroom learning to life in Australia’s capital city.
Across five busy and exciting days, students immersed themselves in Australia’s history, democracy, legal system and national identity through a range of engaging and memorable experiences. Every day provided new opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of how Australia functions as a nation while also creating lasting memories with their peers.
Throughout the week, students visited a wide variety of iconic locations including the Museum of Australian Democracy, Parliament House, the High Court of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, Questacon, the National Archives of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum of Australia, the Royal Australian Mint and the Australian Institute of Sport.
At Old Parliament House, students explored the history of Australian democracy and even had the opportunity to sit inside the old Senate chamber. Visits to Parliament House and the High Court gave students an authentic insight into Australia’s political and legal systems. A major highlight was watching Question Time live in the House of Representatives, where students witnessed Australian democracy in action and watched Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speak on public education funding. Students also toured the active Senate chamber, learnt how bills become laws and participated in mock parliamentary debates and court sessions. The Australian War Memorial provided one of the most moving experiences of the trip. Students explored stories and artefacts from World War I and World War II before participating in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Selected students had the honour of laying wreaths and reciting The Ode in remembrance. Students were also privileged to hear from a Vietnam veteran who shared stories from his military service. Students also explored many aspects of Australian culture and identity throughout the week. At the National Gallery of Australia and National Museum of Australia, students investigated significant Australian artworks, artists and historical exhibitions, including Jackson Pollock’s famous “Blue Poles”. At the National Archives, students examined important historical documents such as the Australian Constitution and learnt about significant moments in Australia’s past, including the White Australia Policy and the infamous dictation tests. There were also plenty of opportunities for fun and hands-on learning. Students enjoyed designing their own coins at the Royal Australian Mint, experimenting with interactive exhibits at Questacon, watching elite athletes train at the Australian Institute of Sport and taking in the spectacular views of Canberra from Mount Ainslie while learning about the city design created by Walter Burley Griffin. Most importantly, our students represented the school exceptionally well throughout the entire trip. They embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm, curiosity and maturity, and consistently demonstrated respect towards staff, tour guides and members of the public. We are incredibly proud of the way they conducted themselves and the positive attitude they brought to every experience. The Canberra Camp was truly a fantastic week filled with learning, laughter and unforgettable memories that students will carry with them for years to come.
Alex Pink
Inspiring Young Authors
Our Year 7 Writer’s Workshop students recently enjoyed a wonderful opportunity to work with visiting author Tess Champion Keech, author of What If the World Were Upside Down?
Tess shared insights into her journey as a writer, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at the process of developing, refining and publishing a book. Students were fascinated to learn about how ideas evolve into finished stories and the care and persistence required along the way.
A highlight of the session was a lively, collaborative story-writing activity. With Tess guiding the process, the class worked together to build a story in real time. The result was a mix of creativity, humour and plenty of laughter, with students enthusiastically contributing ideas and embracing the joy of storytelling.
Tess also encouraged students to think deeply about character development and the importance of crafting an ending that feels meaningful and appropriate. She reminded students to consider how they want their audience to feel, reinforcing the idea that strong writing is shaped with the reader in mind.
This engaging and interactive experience was a fantastic opportunity for our budding writers. Tess expressed great interest in seeing the students’ completed short stories, and we look forward to celebrating their final pieces in the coming weeks.
We thank Tess Champion Keech for inspiring our young authors and helping to nurture their confidence, creativity and love of writing.
Leanne Crole
Year 7s Explore Japanese Language and Culture
Year 7 Japanese students are learning not only the Japanese language, but also practical communication skills for real-life situations in Japan. Currently, students are learning about Japanese currency and creating scripts for shopping conversations at a convenience store. They set up their own shops in the classroom and enjoy interactive role-play activities between shop assistants and customers, asking prices and using “fake” Japanese money. Students are also converting Japanese yen into Australian dollars, which helps them think about the value of money in different countries as well as cultural similarities and differences between Japanese and Australian convenience stores. These activities are highly practical and encourage students to develop deeper cultural understanding as global citizens.
Students have also been learning about Children’s Day festival in Japan, celebrated on May 5. As part of the celebration, they held carp fish kites (koinobori), which symbolise strength and resilience. In Japan, parents display these kites and hope their children will grow strong and determined, like carp swimming against a strong current. Year 7 students all enjoyed holding the fish kites and celebrating together.
Yuji Nakayama
Symbolism and Themes in English
Our Year 8 students have been deeply engaged in their study of the novel Footprints on the Moon, exploring not only the story itself, but also the important themes and ideas woven throughout the text. As part of their learning, students completed a portfolio of work examining themes, symbols and the differences between life in the 1960s and life today.
A highlight of the unit was a series of paired debates, where students confidently discussed a range of challenging and controversial topics connected to the novel and its historical context. Students debated issues such as conscription during wartime, whether people under 18 should have the right to protest, and whether governments should continue investing in space exploration or instead direct funding toward issues here on Earth.
Throughout the unit, students have approached their learning with enthusiasm and maturity. They have embraced opportunities to think critically, share their perspectives and support their ideas with evidence from the novel and historical research. It has been wonderful to see students diving into the learning, challenging themselves and making the most of every opportunity to demonstrate their understanding.
Claire Deretic
National Simultaneous Storytime
This week in Junior Library lessons, our Prep to Year 3 students enjoyed reading this year’s National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) book, Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller. NSS is an annual event where children around Australia read the same story at the same time, in daycare centres, kindergartens, schools, libraries and bookshops. NSS celebrates Australian authors and illustrators and encourages children to connect through the joy of stories and reading together.
To build excitement and celebrate reading Luna Roo this week, students have been busy decorating soccer balls for our new library display during lessons and lunchtime activities.
It has also been wonderful to continue welcoming families to the library after school on Tuesdays. Families are invited to enjoy the library space until 4pm for reading, browsing, drawing, puzzles, and LEGO building. Students are also welcome to borrow additional books during this time, making it a lovely opportunity for families to choose stories they can enjoy reading together at home.
Katherine Tatnell Moore
Surf Coast Junior School Choir Shines at Kithbrooke Country Club
Surf Coast Junior School Choir members brought sunshine to a rainy morning at Kithbrooke Country Club on Wednesday. The students sang a varied program of seven songs from around Australia and the world for their delighted audience. The performance was set against a beautiful, nature-filled backdrop, with large windows framing the surrounding gardens.
The repertoire showcased a range of musical styles, including rounds, two-part pieces, sing-alongs, and action songs. The audience was also treated to several instrumental and vocal solos, highlighting the confidence and talent of these young performers.
A special moment came at the end of the visit, when students ventured into the audience to meet and connect with those who had come to listen.
We were incredibly proud of the choir’s beautiful singing and the respectful and enthusiastic way they conducted themselves throughout the morning. A big thank you also to Brad Treloar for his magical accompaniment.
Surf Coast Junior School Choir is open to students from Prep to Year 4, and new members are always welcome. There are no auditions, and rehearsals take place before school on Wednesday mornings from 8:45–9:00am in the Stadium Music Room (behind the gym).
For more information, please contact Stephanie at s.lawrence@ccg.vic.edu.au.
Stephanie Lawrence
Sorry Day and Reconciliation week
Earlier this week, Christian College acknowledged National Sorry Day, observed on Tuesday, 26 May. National Sorry Day is a day of reflection and acknowledgement that recognises the Stolen Generations — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families, communities and cultures between the mid-1800s and the 1980s. It encourages reflection, understanding and continued commitment toward healing and reconciliation, while honouring the strength, resilience and lived experiences of Stolen Generations survivors.
This week also marks the beginning of National Reconciliation Week, observed from Wednesday, 27 May to Wednesday, 3 June. The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2026 is All In — a call for all Australians to commit to reconciliation every single day. All In reminds us that reconciliation is a shared national responsibility and not solely the responsibility of First Nations peoples. Reconciliation will not happen by itself, and it will not happen without all of us.
Our RAP Committee has provided the College with activities and learning opportunities across National Reconciliation Week. The week provides an important opportunity for our College community to deepen understanding, build respect, and strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As we learn, reflect and commit to action, we continue seeking to be “All In” for reconciliation.
Wathaurong Co Op will also be hosting Reconciliation in the Park 2026 – ALL IN. The event is a time to gather, share space and walk together. Learning from one another and lean into the strength of community.
Please see link below for more information.
Reconciliation in the Park | Wathaurong
If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, processing difficult memories, or needs support during Reconciliation Week please contact the free and confidential hotlines below.
- 13YARN: Call 13 92 76 for confidential one-on-one yarning with a Lifeline-trained Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter.
- Brother to Brother: Call 1800 435 799 for a 24/7 crisis line tailored for Aboriginal men.
- Yarning SafeNStrong: Call 1800 959 563 for culturally safe wellbeing and healing support
TheWellbeing Team
Calling all Coding Wizards
Are you ready to unlock your inner tech wizard? 🧙♂️✨ We are thrilled to announce the upcoming Raspberry Pi Foundation Coding Challenge, open to all students with a knowledge of coding.
What is it?
The Raspberry Pi Foundation Coding Challenge is an international competition where students will tackle fun programming puzzles using their coding and algorithmic thinking skills. The coding challenge requires students to have a working knowledge of Turtle Blocky, Python, C#, Java or VB. More information can be found at https://www.bebras.uk
When and Where?
Date: Tuesday June 17, 2026
Location: On Campus/online
Duration: 45 mins
How to Sign Up:
Email Ms Bergin at s.bergin@ccg.vic.edu.au before Friday June 12. Please indicate the division you want to attempt from the list below.
Divisions are based on skill, not age. There are four divisions:
- Novice – For students who are new to block-based programming, or who have recently started learning to code using blocks.
- Explorer – For students who are confident using block-based programming and have experience creating programs using blocks.
- Navigator – New to text-based programming. For students who have recently started coding using a text-based programming language and are developing their skills by creating small programs.
- Trailblazer– Experienced text-based programming. For students who are confident programmers using a text-based programming language.
Practice challenges, including information on block-based and text-based challenges can be found on the UK Bebras website
Sophie Bergin
Academic Excellence and Music Excellence Scholarships – Applications Open!
Applications are now open for Academic Excellence Scholarships – for entry to Years 5 to 11 in 2028.
Any interested parents, guardians and families with children in Years 3 to 9 in 2026 are welcome to apply, including families who have children currently enrolled at Christian College.
Applications for Academic Excellence scholarships close on August 6.
Also open to both Christian College families, and families with children in other schools, are our Music Excellence Scholarships. These are open for students entering Years 5 to 12 in 2027 or 2028.
Applications for all Christian College scholarships can be made via our website. Click here to visit our Scholarships page, where you’ll find more information about all the scholarships we offer. From there you can click on the individual scholarship tiles for more specific details, and to apply.
Godspell the Musical – Senior School Production on Stage June 5 & 6
R.W. Gibson Centre – Christian College Senior Campus
Tickets on sale! 3 shows - 2 evening shows nearly sold out
Friday June 5 – 7:00pm
Saturday June 6 – 2:00pm & 5:30pm
Trybooking https://www.trybooking.com/DKBJO
Featuring a student cast of Yrs 10,11,12 and a band of students and staff who have been rehearsing since the start of the school year.
Prepare ye for the timeless tale of friendship, loyalty and love in a masterful retelling of the original sensation with dazzling contemporary arrangements and references. Godspell, 2012 Revised Version, featuring songs by Stephen Schwartz, (known for the Broadway hits WICKED and PIPPIN), uses song, dance and storytelling to retell the passion story and parables of the gospels. Filled with high spirited musical styles ranging from pop to vaudeville, this theatrical celebration is a reminder that kindness, tolerance, and love should live on vibrantly.
Our audience will be treated to a unique presentation of this well-known production, one that will showcase the exceptional skills of our students and the creative expertise of our production staff team. This dynamic show is also supported by a crew of staff, students and parents who will ensure that the onstage presentation is a memorable experience.
Our College is proud to present Godspell! Please assist us to promote our show to your families, friends and the broader community. Please find a poster attached which can be emailed as a digital attachment or printed for display as far and wide as you like!!
Tickets are now on sale for this boutique theatre experience on Trybooking, we look forward to welcoming our audiences!
Trybooking https://www.trybooking.com/DKBJO
Fiona Gardner
