From the Executive Principal

What a spectacular week it has been! Book Week 2025 has brought a whirlwind of excitement, creativity, and imagination to our school, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the way our students embraced this year’s theme: “Book an Adventure.” 

From Dorothy in the land of Oz to enchanted forests, from outer space to pirate ships and from prehistoric lands to the vibrant characters of Dr Seuss, our Book Week Parades across our campuses were joyful celebrations of the many worlds that books invite us to explore. The costumes were incredible. I want to thank all the families who helped bring these literary characters to life. Your support and enthusiasm made the day truly unforgettable. 

Book Week is more than just dressing up; it is a national celebration of literature and the transformative power of reading. Stories help children make sense of the world, spark their imagination, and build empathy. They also lay the foundation for strong literacy skills, which are essential for success in every area of life. At Christian College we are deeply committed to nurturing a love of reading, which is why we have such wonderful libraries on all five of our campuses.  

This year’s theme, “Book an Adventure,” reminds us that every time we open a book, we set off on a journey. Whether it’s a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming tale, or a fantastical quest, books allow children to explore new ideas, cultures, and perspectives, all from the comfort of a cosy reading nook. 

What’s Happening at Surf Coast?

TERM  3 2025

WEEK 6

Wednesday 27 August           –     Fairytale Day Year 2

Thursday 28 August              –     Inter-Campus Year 7 & 8 Connection Day

Friday 29 August                  –     Prep – Year 4 Assembly

WEEK 7

Monday 1 – 3 September        –     Year 4 Camp – Ferngully Lodge, Healesville

Monday 1 September            –      Prep Bush Discovery Learning       

Tuesday 2 September            –      Year 5 – 7 Middle School Father’s Day Breakfast  

Wednesday 3 – 5 September    –     Year 5 Camp Mill Valley Ranch

Wednesday 3 September        –     National Health & PE Day

Thursday 4 September            –     Prep – Year 4 Junior School Father’s Day Tabloid Sports & Sausage Sizzle    

 Friday 5 September               –     Prep – Year 6 Father’s Day Stall

Book Week Fun in Prep

This week, our Preps participated in one of the most exciting weeks on the school calendar… BOOK WEEK! It has been a wonderful week, with the highlight being our Preps participating in their first school Book Week Parade on Tuesday.

Preps joyfully paraded around the stadium, showcasing their incredible character dress-ups. From astronauts to zoo keepers, we covered all bases from A to Z! It was heartwarming to see the pride and joy on the children’s faces as they embodied their favourite book characters.

The Preps gathered with the rest of the Surf Coast campus students to watch the teachers’ lively reenactment of the beloved story, “We’re going on a bear hunt” with a twist… “We’re going on a teacher hunt!”. The teachers traversed an obstacle course and ultimately were chased by a bear, who happened to be none other than one of our Year 5 teachers, Mrs Claire Deretic!

Creating Natural Kitchen Utensils in Science

Last week, our Year 2 students took part in an exciting hands-on Science project that brought creativity and nature together in the most imaginative way. As part of their unit on materials and design, the students were challenged to create a kitchen utensil using only natural materials such as sticks, bark, leaves, and other found objects from the environment.

The activity not only sparked curiosity and innovation but also gave students the opportunity to explore how everyday tools can be made from sustainable materials. Throughout the project, they learned how to join pieces together securely using a three-step process: starting with glue, reinforcing with masking tape, and finishing with raffia to give their creations a polished, natural look.

The process encouraged problem-solving and teamwork, and it was wonderful to see students grow in confidence as they experimented with different construction methods and worked to strengthen their joins. From wooden tongs to leafy ladles, each utensil was unique and reflected the creativity and persistence of its maker.

By the end of the lesson, the classroom was filled with proud smiles and beautifully crafted utensils. Many students commented on how much they enjoyed working with their hands and discovering how to turn simple materials into something functional.

We’re incredibly proud of the efforts and enthusiasm shown by all Year 2 students, and it was clear from their excitement that this was a learning experience they won’t soon forget.

Year 4s Step Into the Middle Ages

“I stepped past the coats expecting to find the hard, smooth back of the wardrobe but instead I stepped into…”

With this imaginative prompt, our Year 4 students were launched into a world of imagination and historical exploration as part of our Middle Ages content knowledge unit. Inspired by Lucy’s journey in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, students were tasked with imagining they had stepped not into Narnia, but back in time to the Middle Ages.

Before beginning their writing, students worked collaboratively to examine modelled texts, identifying effective descriptive techniques and historical details. They also engaged in peer editing, offering thoughtful feedback to help one another refine and improve their work.

Each student chose a setting to explore – either a castle, village, marketplace, or church, and their final piece was required to include:

• At least five historical facts about the chosen location and its inhabitants

Tournament of Minds – Deakin University Presentation

Our Year 5/6 students have been working tirelessly in preparation for the Tournament of Minds competition and will be presenting their projects at Deakin University this Sunday.

We are incredibly proud of not only the creativity and teamwork they have demonstrated, but also the resilience and initiative they have shown when facing challenges along the way – including working through absences and problem-solving as a team to keep their projects moving forward. Their commitment and collaboration have been inspiring to watch.

A special thank you goes to Christie W, whose guidance, encouragement, and dedication have set these fantastic students up for success. We are excited to see our students showcase their hard work and talent on such a big stage!

Book Week Celebration Day

This year’s Book Week celebrations took place on Tuesday this week, where the incredible creativity of our students and families was showcased through a colourful display of imaginative costumes and favourite book characters. The day began with the annual Book Week parade, hosted by Cruella de Vil (Mr Trevaskis), in which students paraded their wonderful character costumes around the stadium for the crowd of classmates and parents.

Following the parade, students were treated to the annual staff book performance. This year’s show was a Surf Coast campus twist on the classic ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’, featuring percussion sound effects performed by several of our older students. The teachers’ hunt tackled the many obstacles of our Surf Coast campus before the bear (Mrs Deretic) chased them home.

To finish off the morning, students had the opportunity to visit the ‘Great Book Swap’ book stall to raise money for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF). This initiative not only fosters a love of reading in our students but also supports the ILF, which works to promote literacy in remote areas of Australia where resources can be limited. It is always such a joy to see students immersed in their chosen books after visiting the book stall. I’d like to thank everyone who generously contributed books to the stall over the course of this term to make this initiative possible.

We extend our thanks to all families for their support of Book Week for its continued success. With this year’s Book Week theme of ‘Book an Adventure’, it was a wonderful celebration of books and the adventures that they take us on.

From The Chaplain

Hello everyone,

I hope you’ve had an excellent start to the term, and that you’re looking forward to what is yet to come!

I’d love to share a little about our prayer groups that are happening across Surf Coast Campus, and to invite you and your children to join us.

These meetings are an amazing opportunity to spend time in community with others, and bring our praise, requests, and thanks to God. Even if you don’t feel confident to pray in a specific way, God loves when we speak with Him and pray together, so feel free to come give it a try.

At Surf Coast Campus, we have three weekly prayer groups, for our staff, our students, and our community. These meetings run in the Chaplain’s office, and hopefully we need to relocate when we get too big!

Our student prayer group runs on a Thursday at recess, and all students are welcome to join us.

Our community prayer group runs on a Wednesday, from 3pm until pickup at 3:25pm, and all community members are welcome. If you join us, please ensure you sign in at reception (on the left-hand side of the main office).

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about prayer or our prayer groups.

Prepare to Shine: Auditions Next Week!

The annual Middle School Talent Quest is coming up on Friday, September 19, at the Highton Campus SAC. This year’s theme, Shine Your Light, celebrates the unique talents and passions of our students, with performances ranging from music and dance to comedy and cultural presentations. Auditions for Surf Coast students in Years 5–7 will take place next week, and there’s still time for students to register their interest. Please keep an eye out for the permission slip and further details.

Deakin District Athletics Day

Under stunning blue skies and perfect weather conditions, the Deakin District Athletics Carnival was a resounding success, filled with energy, enthusiasm, and outstanding performances. Students from our campus showed incredible participation, with everyone putting in their best effort and supporting one another throughout the day.

The spirit of teamwork was evident, with cheers and encouragement across the track and field. Many students achieved personal bests, showcasing the results of their dedication and training.

Special congratulations go to the following students who placed in their age groups:

• LACHLAN LEWIS – 3rd place in the 200m
• EDWINA RAU – 1st in the 200m and 2nd in the 100m
• JOHN BECHIS – 1st in High Jump, 2nd in 200m, 3rd in 100m, and 3rd in Long Jump
• ARCHIE HODGART – 2nd in Long Jump
• LOTTE GODING – 3rd in High Jump
• JASMINE HEATH – 3rd in Discus and part of the 3rd place team in the 9–10 years male relay

A particular shout-out to the students who have progressed to the next stage at the North Division Athletics—a fantastic achievement that reflects their hard work and talent.

Big thanks to all staff, parents, and support teams from all competing schools. Your efforts and enthusiasm helped make the day a memorable and successful event for everyone involved.

Concert Band Performances - Victorian Schools Music Festival

Regional Band Section Hosted by Christian College at the R.W. Gibson Centre

Christian College was proud to once again host two days of Concert Band performances at the Senior Campuses R.W. Gibson Centre, for the Regional Band Days of the VSMF. This event saw hundreds of band students from 15 schools, who performed in one of  25 bands, visit our centre.

Congratulations to members of the five CCG Concert Bands from the three middle schools and their Conductors, Mr Dunlop, Mr Rankin and Mrs Davey for their award-winning performances at the Victorian Schools Music Festival 2025.

Supported by a team of CCG music staff, our concert bands performed for an esteemed adjudication panel Dr Jemima Bunn, and all the way from Texas Tech University, Dr Sarah McKoin.

The festival provides opportunity for ensembles to perform a program of pieces, receive an onstage workshop and feedback from the chief adjudicator. They also listen to other school bands and observe their onstage workshops. After the event the bands receive a recording of their performance and recorded comments/feedback to reflect upon, which are designed to assist them to take the next step of musical development.

Career Education Comes to Year 7 and 8

This week, our Year 7 and 8 students have begun an exciting five-week unit in Career Education being conducted during the wellbeing period. This program has been designed by the College Pathways team to help students start thinking about their futures and to explore how their individual strengths, interests, and values can shape their learning journey.

Throughout the unit, students will begin developing a Career Action Plan – a personalised tool that encourages reflection, goal setting, and planning for future pathways. They will also engage in activities that promote pathway planning, giving them the chance to identify their areas of interest and understand how these may connect to future study options and career opportunities.

At Christian College, we believe it is never too early to begin exploring the world of work and learning how to make informed decisions about the future. By embedding Career Education at Years 7 and 8, we aim to give students the confidence to dream, plan, and take their first steps towards building a meaningful pathway. We encourage parents to initiate conversations about the Career Education program and check in on their child’s progress in developing a Career Action Plan.

A Look Ahead – R U OK? Day

On Thursday 11th September, our College will acknowledge R U OK? Day—a national day of action that reminds us all to check in with those around us and start meaningful conversations that could change a life.

By raising awareness of this important initiative, we aim to build a mentally healthy community and foster an environment of care, empathy, and compassion.

We are inviting all students and staff to wear a splash of yellow on Thursday 11th September. This could include a ribbon, badge, or accessory. Please note, this is not a casual dress day.

As part of our R U OK? Day activities, we are also running a student art competition.

Students are asked to choose one of the following themes and submit one entry in the form of a drawing, painting or photography including a statement of explanation:

“What does connection mean to you?” 

“The power of a conversation”

“Friends help friends”

“Together, we flourish”

Spotlight on Wellbeing

Many Benefits of Books!

With the celebration of Book Week in full swing the campuses have been abuzz with costumes, parades and the playful spark that books invite. It’s a chance to recognise that books have continued to provide so much joy, insight, understanding and connection to individuals and to communities.

As a parent / caregiver the opportunity to listen to your child read for 5 or 10 minutes a day, allows the daily distractions to be set aside and for a moment of 1:1 connection. Your child is learning all the basics and more, they are building empathy, learning expression, language and emotions. Books like ‘In My heart: a book of feelings’ by Jo Witek explores when and what makes a young person feel certain ways and reflects how these feelings are expressed. Often a short enquiry – “Have you ever felt like that? What do you do when you feel that way?” encourages curiosity and greater self-awareness.

Books allow a chance for adolescents to relax and find themselves on an adventure, They offer opportunities for them to connect with a story and ideas, and to broaden their own world views and understanding of themselves and others.

Staff Professional Growth at CCG

Fostering Excellence in Teaching and Learning

At CCG, we are committed to nurturing a culture of professional growth, ensuring our teachers continue to refine their skills and strengthen the learning experiences of every student. This year has already seen an exciting range of professional development initiatives and achievements across our staff. By investing in our teachers, we are investing in the future of our students, ensuring they receive the highest quality education possible.

Here’s a snapshot of recent highlights:

• Elevate Middle Leaders Program: We have begun rolling out the Elevate Middle Leaders Program—a series of short, immersive workshops based on the AITSL Middle Leaders Standards. Designed for staff in current or aspiring leadership roles, these sessions are facilitated by our senior leaders and will run throughout 2025 and 2026.
• Celebrating Leadership: Our Executive Principal, Mathilda Joubert, will soon be recognised by the Australian Council for Educational Leaders for a National Fellowship, with a second award for contributions to Education in Western Australia. She was recognised at this year’s Victorian finalists for their outstanding contributions to education in Victoria and beyond.
• National Learning Opportunities: Five of our leaders will soon attend the Australian Council for Educational Leaders National Conference, and we look forward to hearing their insights next term.

Subject Selection Evening

On Tuesday 19th August Christian College hosted our Subject Selection Evening at the Highton Campus for Highton and Surf Coast students entering Years 7, 8 and 9 in 2026.

Families and students came together as part of our college community to learn more about the subjects available and to consider the pathways that will guide their journey in the years ahead. Teachers and staff were on hand to share advice, answer questions, and support students in making informed choices about their studies.

The evening highlighted the importance of selecting a pathway that not only supports academic growth but also nurtures personal interests, gifts, and passions. It was wonderful to see so many families engaging in meaningful conversations about learning, and we thank all who attended for contributing to such a positive community event.

We are pleased to share that online subject selections open today and will close on Friday 29th August. Students are now invited to log in and make their choices, with the support of their families and teachers as they consider the pathway best suited to their interests and goals.

The Foundation Golf Day - Only 20 Places Left!

Calling golfers of all abilities! You are cordially invited to make a team and join us for a round of golf at the Christian College Foundation Golf Day on Friday October 17, 2025 at The Sands Torquay.  But be quick, only 20 spots remain! This event is proudly sponsored by AECS (Australian Environmental Cleaning Services).

It’s not only a great day to have fun and meet people, but also an important annual tournament to raise money for the Christian College Geelong Foundation that supports families in their greatest time of need by providing them with life-changing educational opportunities.

Set on a sleek and modern premium 18-hole championship golf course designed by Stuart Appleby, known for its challenging layout and coastal views, it’s characterised by undulating fairways, numerous bunkers, and a strong connection to its natural surroundings.

You will be treated to a scrumptious breakfast on arrival and an opportunity to participate in several fun activities including the longest drive, nearest to the pin etc.

There are plenty of prizes up for grabs, including a cash prize of $30,000. Score a Hole in One on a selected hole* and you can win.

You will also be treated to a delicious buffet lunch and learn more about the incredible work of the Christian College Foundation.

Academic Excellence Scholarships – Applications are Open!

Each year, Christian College offers a number of Academic Excellence Scholarships. These are open to both current Christian College students, and to students currently attending other schools. Please note, this year some key aspects of these scholarships have changed from previous years.

Scholarship applications are now invited from any student for entry at Years 5 to 11 – in 2026 or 2027. When applying, you will be asked to nominate which calendar year of entry to Christian College you are interested in.

If you are interested in applying for a scholarship entry in 2026, applications are open to students currently in Years 4 through to 10.

If you are interested in applying for a scholarship entry in 2027, applications are open to students currently in Years 3 through to 9.

Further details are available, and applications can be submitted, on our website. Click on the Scholarships hotlink on our homepage, or go directly to the page by clicking here.

Applications close at 5pm on Thursday 16 October.

Scholarship testing will be conducted at Christian College Geelong on Saturday 25 October.

CC Eagles Basketball – Summer 2025/26 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 any gender. In Geelong we play in two separate competitions:

• The Club Competition – This is as “Under Age” system, with the age for the season being taken as at 31st December, 2026. i.e. Under 10, Under 12
• The Schools Competition – This is for boys and girls of primary school age and teams are based on the players year level in 2026

The Club and School competitions are not exclusive to students from Christian College. We welcome all players at all levels of ability to join the CC Eagles.

The Geelong United basketball season runs over Term 4, 2025 and Term 1, 2026. We are currently inviting current and prospective players for the Geelong competition to attend either a “Bring a Friend” session or Club Trials, as per the following schedule. All sessions will be held at the Christian College Highton SAC.

Join Our Growing Kinder Community at Butterfield House in 2026! 🌟

We are excited to announce that, due to high demand, we’ve added an extra 4-Year-Old Kinder group for 2026! 🙌

Even better – two of our groups now offer 19 hours of kinder across 3 full days each week, giving children plenty of time to learn, play, and nurture their curiosity in nature. 🌿

At Butterfield House, we pride ourselves on being an Exceeding rated service that fosters each child’s growth through a caring, play based program rich in nature play and discovery.

📞 Spaces are limited so please call 5264 6803 to find out more.

Your Cookbook of Family Favourites – Calling for Recipes  

Dear Christian College Families,

Our names are Elisha Williams and Willow McInnes, and we are the Middle School-Highton campus Community Building and Outreach Prefects.

We are thrilled to share that we are introducing the Christian College Geelong cookbook, which will be an important fundraiser for the Christian College Foundation. All the proceeds from the cookbook will be donated to the Eternity Fund. By supporting this initiative you will be enabling, empowering, and changing the lives of young people from families who are experiencing hardship.

This will be a hardcover book which will include recipes from families and members of the Christian College Geelong community and will be titled, ‘Our Family Favourites’. If you have a special family recipe that you would like to share, we would love for you to contribute to the book. We encourage our community to contribute one favourite recipe.