2022 Annual Report

CHRISTIAN COLLEGE GEELONG

Democratic Principles

Christian College is committed to the principles of a liberal democracy

• We believe in an accountable, democratically elected government.

• We respect and observe the rule of law, and believe that no person is above the law.

• We believe in equal rights for all before the law, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender or other attributes.

• We believe not only in the freedom of religion, but also the need to practice tolerance and understanding of others’ beliefs.

• We believe in the value of freedom of speech and freedom of association, but also acknowledge that we have the responsibility not to abuse this freedom.

• We believe in the values of openness and tolerance, and value and respect all members of the Christian College community regardless of background.

The Chair’s Report

From the CEO

From the Principal

Financial Report 18. College Performance

Teaching and Learning 28. College Major Event Sponsors

THE CHAIR’S REPORT

The ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus once noted that you can never put your foot in the same river twice because the river is constantly moving and changing.

The last year has seen much in the way of change and movement both in the life of the College and in the general community.

The Board itself has been in a process of change with new members being appointed; and the Board is prayerfully looking to the future and seeking to develop a long-term strategic plan.

For some the College Board is a rather mysterious gathering that meets early on Saturday mornings, but it has a critical role in the life of the College.

The Board’s role is one of governance and not management; and over the last year the Board has been sought to enhance its capacity for this role. This is reflected in the skills that recently appointed Board members possess.

In August 2022 at the Surf Coast Campus the Board had a “day away” facilitated by Rev. Tim Costello, who amongst his many roles served as the CEO of World Vision. Tim challenged the Board on its various responsibilities in part through a humorous and at times, for the panellists, challenging hypothetical. We had reinforced that central to its role of governance the Board is charged with guarding the College’s calling to “seek first the kingdom of God.”

In September some Board members also attended a training event organised by Association of Heads of Independent Schools Australia (AHISA) which focused on legal and governance responsibilities of independent school boards and councils.

I would like to draw your attention to the following matters that have been on the Board’s agenda this past year:

• To enhance the general College community’s awareness of the identity of Board members, directors are sharing the responsibility of attending significant celebrations in the life of the College.

• The Board has developed a register for conflicts of interest for directors and executive staff.

• Jonathan Ryan was re-elected secretary and I was re-elected Chair at the Board’s annual meeting in July.

• With the creation of one Christian College Geelong Company from a cluster of eight Christian College -related companies there was a recognition that the College’s Constitution needed revision. The proposed revisions are designed to improve the clarity and application of the Constitution. This proposed revised

Constitution has been prepared so as to accord with the requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 (Commonwealth) and to not prejudice the charitable registration of the Company with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the registration with the Victorian Registration and Qualification Authority (VRQA) of the school under the same name that the Company operates. A final version will be brought to the Company for comment and adoption in 2023.

• Along with Christian College two other companies exist related to the life of the College, ‘Eden Quality Services’ and ‘the Christian College Geelong Foundation’. These have very specific functions and are wholly owned subsidiaries of Christian College Geelong. The Foundation Board has been very active in 2022 and the College Board made the decision that the Foundation Board Chair should serve as a full member of the College Board rather than just be in attendance. It is intended that this change will be included in the revised Constitution, although currently the Foundation Board Chair fills a non-church director position.

• During the year the Board celebrated the completion of the R.W. Gibson Music Performance Centre and the English and Language/Taylor House building at Senior School.

• A working group to nominate new Board members has been created.

• The Board received the draft budget for 2023.

• The Board had been able to keep the College fee increase in 2022 to 0% but 2023 sees an economically more challenging environment and hence the need for the 4.9% increase.

• The Board will be working with the CEO in 2023 in the development of an overall strategic plan for the College.

I want to acknowledge and thank all the members of the Board for their commitment and both the professional and faithful way in which they carry out their responsibilities.

During 2022 the following people were appointed to the Board: Nathan Boseley, Danna Grills, Dr Bernard Shiu and Ben Peck. (Ben was appointed as the lay representative from the Baptist Church). They bring with them significant experience in finance, management, governance, public relations and the law. Lee Humphris who has served for under 2 years as a Board member tended his resignation at the last meeting in 2022 and we thank Lee for his involvement in the Board’s life and work.

Michael Peck retired from his role as the chair Foundation Board and so retired as a member of the Christian College Board. Michael’s leadership has been outstanding, and we give thanks to God for his contribution to the whole life of the College over many years including a time as a parent representative on the Board.

These have been, and remain, challenging times in the world of education, yet the College community remains vibrant and growing. Thank you, on behalf of the Board, to the amazingly energetic and creative staff of the College, to the families of students who contribute in so many ways, and most importantly to the wonderful students who are at the heart of the life of the College.

A particular word of thanks to the senior leadership of the school, CEO Daryl Riddle, Principal Glen McKeeman, Vice-Principal Scott Elliss (who will be taking a year of leave in 2023), Jonathan Ryan (Company Secretary and Operations Manager), Brenda Lyons (Finance Manager), Tim Edwards (Dean of Christian Culture who concludes this year) and all heads of campus for navigating so many hurdles and continuing to look forward without being overwhelmed by the ongoing stream of daily challenges.

Classic paintings of that rough and ready prophet, John the Baptist, often portray him pointing… pointing to the one who is the Messiah, Jesus!

I believe that in so much of the life of the College we see ways in which we follow John the Baptist’s example and point to Jesus.

Even at a governance level this can be seen with Board members appointed from four different Christian traditions: Anglican, Baptist, Uniting and Salvation Army. What a wonderful expression of Christian unity and witness!

As we journey into a New Year, in the words of Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians, may “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.”

Rev. Paul Stephens

Chair of the Christian College Board

2022 MEMBERS OF THE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE GEELONG BOARD

Mrs Danna Grills Parent Representative

Mr Nathan Boseley Parent Representative

Mr Lee Humphris Parent Representative

Mrs Kristy Cochrane Parent Representative

Mr Ben Peck Baptist Church Lay Representative

Rev. Jonathan Taylor Anglican Church Clergy Representative

Mrs Susan Strong Uniting Church Lay Representative

Mrs Sally Stewart Parent Representative

Dr Bernard Shiu Parent Representative

Major Karen Castley The Salvation Army Clergy Representative

Deputy Board Chair Assoc. Prof. David Fuller Anglican Church Lay Representative

Board Chair

Rev. Paul Stephens Uniting Church Clergy Representative

Michael Peck Christian College Geelong Foundation Board Chair

FROM THE CEO

As the end of the year activities and Christmas parties seem to dominate the calendar, I often find myself trying to assess how well the year has gone especially for the students throughout the College, the staff who teach them and how well our families are coping in this rapidly changing world. At Graduation, I watched the Year 12 students make their way across the stage with such anticipation on their faces and I realised how different the world is for them and I pray they will feel a sense of confidence and optimism that they have been well educated and they possess all the necessary skills needed to be successful. I was delighted with the three key speeches given by Sophie Potter, Nathan Tarrant and our guest speaker Jack Jordan-Hill, another Christian College Alumni. All rendered their speeches with great confidence and skill and all messages were gratefully accepted and applauded by the grateful year 12s. As was mentioned by various people on the day, we are so blessed to find ourselves gathering once again, joining side by side to celebrate life and our community. Hopefully we can remain this way and continue to rebuild many of our traditions and community functions.

Over this year we have witnessed several significant capital works programs being completed. We enjoyed the opening of the new English and Language building for use by the senior students as well as officially opening the R.W. Gibson Music Performance Centre on November 4th with associated special guests and members of Dr Gibson’s family, including his wife, Wendy. Included on stage were some outstanding musical performances which allowed the audience to have a firsthand experience of the “magic” acoustics of the centre. We have also seen the construction of two major car parking areas, one at Middle School and the other at Senior School.

These have both been major works “in waiting” but we have had to wait for an appropriate time for them to occur. The bus parking bays alone have increased the safety of our students each day as more than 450 students get off and on the buses in a far safer fashion now with the new design. Along with the refurbishment of many classrooms across all campuses, landscaping upgrades at Senior School and Bellarine Campus and the new stage plans for the Surf Coast Campus, things have been very busy.

At the beginning of this year, we were shocked by the news that our Vice-Principal Scott Elliss had suffered a serious brain haemorrhage where he was expected to be away for the term. It was quite a shock to us all as the injury was “out of the blue”. We were pleased that Scott made a significant return to duties for the rest of the year. At this stage Scott has decided to take 12 months leave in 2023 to give himself the appropriate time to heal and we wish him well.

FAREWELLS

Bernadette Johnson

As is the case each year, we have numbers of staff who are retiring and leaving us, many of whom have served the College for many years. I would like to acknowledge Berna Johnson who has both managed and taught in our kindergartens at Williams House and Butterfield House. Berna for approximately 18 years. Berna was instrumental in helping to set up our new kinder at the Surf Coast and played a strategic role in designing and watching over the construction of the buildings and the outside play areas. We wish Berna all the best in her retirement and thank her so much for her incredible contribution to the lives of so many of our students and our Christian College community.

Milton Nankervis

We also say farewell to Milton Nankervis who has worked for our community for 24 years. Milton began his tenure here as a bricklayer and we see his amazing handiwork in the courtyards of both the Middle School and Junior School courtyards. Every brick you step on, Milton laid and every lower red brick wall around the buildings and courtyards is Milton’s work. Amongst the many other building features he can lay claim to, the gardens lawns and trees across all campuses have been planted with Milton’s help. Milton has been an honest, patient and consistent worker and persistence has been a hallmark of his roles. His help, care and demeanour around the Junior School in the years leading up to his retirement were so appreciated by staff and students alike. We wish you all the best in the future Milton.

Michael Peck

This year the Christian College Foundation has been active in the community and run some very productive programs and functions. The Chair of the Foundation Board since its inception seven years ago, Mr Michael Peck, has been extremely generous with his time and professional skills by steering the establishment and operation of the Foundation to such a Professional level. Skilfully assisted by the Foundation Manager, Mrs Jennifer Freind and the Foundation Board members, we are excited for the future role of the Foundation. Sadly, we are having to say farewell to Michael as he enters retirement and we thank him for his generous contribution to the College and the Foundation. However, we also welcome Mr Tim Page-Walker as the newly elected Chair of the Foundation beginning in 2023. We wish him all the best in this role.

Tim

Edwards

This end of year we say farewell to a special man, Mr Tim Edwards. Tim came to Christian College as the first Dean of Christian Culture, a new position in the College and one that presented its challenges. His start in this new role also coincided with the onset of the COVID pandemic. It was at this crucial time I asked Tim if he could assist with the Foundation as well as become the head of the Chaplaincy team. In addition, Tim sat on the College Executive and met with the College Board each month. Tim was also instrumental in helping to establish many of our College policies based around the wellbeing programs. His contribution to the College has been productive and meaningful as he has navigated and shaped this new and important role throughout these past three years. We wish you God’s richest blessings Tim as you move on to a new role.

Stephen has been a familiar face around the College for more than 30 years where he has served in many roles. Beginning in 1992, Stephen has taught Years 5&6, has been Year 7 teacher and year level coordinator, Deputy Head of Middle School, Head of Middle School, Head of Junior School Belmont, Chaplain and the Chaplain Coordinator. Stephen has devoted years mentoring many teachers in the College. His contribution and impact in the lives of so many students, family and staff has been monumental, and I know he has ever remained loyal and a faithful servant of this community. Thanks Stephen for the legacy you are leaving in your retirement.

COLLEGE EVENTS

Over the year we have been witness to many outstanding events. Many of these activities have been in “hibernation” due to the pandemic but it has been wonderful to reengage with staff families and students in the community again. We have enjoyed events like the Music Evening at Costa Hall, the Art, Technology and Design Festival at Villa Paloma, the Year 12 Graduation Ceremony and dinner with families and the opportunity to celebrate Christmas and the close of the College year with our Campus Celebration Evenings. With many of the camping programs and the Outdoor Education experiences resuming, the swimming sports, athletic sports and many interschool competitions starting again, this year has seen a renewed enthusiasm among students and staff alike. The sense of reengagement has been positive and rewarding. I was very privileged to be

Stephen Riddle

Bernadette Johnson

Milton Nankervis

Stephen Riddle

Michael Peck

present at a Grandparents Day last month where I was quite taken by the interactions between the school community and grandparents. The day was such a highlight for both the students and the families.

I would like to express my thanks to the members of the College Board for their diligent governance of the College over the last 12 months. We are fortunate to have the quality of people with such diverse and important skills. Thank you to Rev. Paul Stephens, the Chair of the Board for his continued support and wisdom in guiding us all. We hope you all have a well-deserved rest over this Christmas break and come back for new year full of new challenges.

I would like to express my thanks to the Principal Mr Glen McKeeman, Vice Principal Mr Scott Elliss and the Heads and Deputies of each of the Campuses. Thank you to all the teaching staff and ancillary staff for the many efforts you take to ensure the wellbeing of all our students across all the campuses including Back Creek Farm. It is an incredible task and I know I speak for us all when I say thank you to all of you. I also want to thank all the professional support staff who work diligently behind the scenes. For the bus drivers and the mechanics who are asked to drive in the all conditions each day and then return our students home safely – we have much to thank you for as well. For all the others, gardeners, maintenance people and farmers at Back Creek. We extend a heartfelt thankyou to all of you.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to my Executive team in the College, Operations, Finance, Education, School programmes, Administration, Chaplaincy, Public Relations, Publications and Marketing and Governance. You are an incredibly hard-working group of individuals who all go far beyond what is expected and I thank you so much for your continued efforts.

In closing, I want to remind ourselves about the true meaning of Christmas. This week we will be surrounded by a multitude of advertisers trying to convince us to buy their kind of Christmas. Yet when we look a little closer we can still see God’s grace and His plan showing through all the tinsel, baubles and sales signs. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, a birth that was predicted hundreds of years before it happened, and an event that changed the history of mankind.

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

God bless you all this Christmas.

Mr Daryl C. Riddle OAM Chief Executive Officer

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Having a year without the disruption of COVID-19 has been a welcome highlight for our community in 2022. From the outset, the College leadership set plans to focus on reconnection and reengagement on multiple levels, with all stakeholders.

Being able to conduct events and activities where families can gather in person to experience and appreciate our learning programs, has been critical to achieving those outcomes. This year we held many sporting, music and performing arts events, information sessions, learning expos, art exhibitions, camps, excursions, presentation balls, graduations and celebration evenings. They have each contributed to, and richly enhanced, what has been an extraordinarily successful year for our community.

Some years ago, as part of a collaboration conducted with the Harvard Graduate School of Education, our staff contributed to the creation of a strategic framework for our educational program.

My report this year highlights these areas and lists some of the ways that we connect our practice with the strategic framework goals. I hope this allows us to see and appreciate the incredible progress we have made in achieving our educational goals and providing opportunities for our students and staff to flourish.

STRATEGIC GOALS FOR EDUCATION

Encouraging, Nurturing and Modelling Christian Faith

• Grappling with global and contemporary issues through a Christian worldview, informed and guided by the life and teaching of Christ as described in the truth of the Scriptures

• Fostering the Christian faith, by encouraging relationships and a variety of experiences based on God’s love and grace

• Leading students and staff in daily devotions to discover more about God’s purposes in our relationship with Him and others through scripture and prayer

• Modelling daily interactions that reflect Christ’s life and reflect His character

• Embedding the Christian College values that are inclusive and respectful of individual differences and diversity

• Guiding our students and staff to find purpose and meaning for their lives in Christ as they negotiate a complex and challenging world

• Engaging with the Christian faith through a variety of experiences and contexts both inside and outside of the classroom

On a daily basis across our College community this goal is best encapsulated in the way we live, treat each other, and foster our care for others.

Students’ interactions with their teachers and their peers are central to their experience of Christianity and God’s love. For students, learning about the life of Jesus Christ in a way that is relevant and purposeful occurs in:

• Devotions

• Classroom experiences in Christian Education

• Services and assemblies

• Special occasions and events

• Conversations and activities in pastoral and wellbeing programs

And for staff in:

• Staff devotions

• Professional development opportunities

• The Annual Staff Retreat

• Worship services

• Faculty reflections and planning

• Curriculum development

• Pastoral support from our Chaplaincy team and the Dean of Christian Culture

Initiatives such as a renewed and revised Wellbeing Framework, work undertaken by a Community of Respect team, and the commencement of a Reconciliation Action Plan will further support the progress of achieving this goal.

Quality Effective Teaching

• Responding to God’s calling to teach from a heart of love, care and concern for all students

• Developing strong intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships, built on trust, integrity and knowledge of students

• Engaging with young people through an inherent desire to see growth in learning and personal character, stemming from the teachers’ professional knowledge, practice and passion

• Seeking to improve one’s teaching craft and develop best practice, acting on feedback and professional growth opportunities

• Actively contributing to collegial relationships and collaborating on the development of curriculum pedagogy and design

• Engineering the learning so that it is engaging, targeted and differentiated to meet the needs of all students

• Setting goals for professional growth and goals for student growth through a process of feedback and self-reflection

• Recognising that all teachers are leaders and as such, should always be aware of their spheres of influence

Our staff are encouraged to have an intrinsic desire to be the best that they can be to provide the best learning experiences and opportunities for their students.

We have a structure that supports our staff in their teaching practice through specific faculty directors, under the leadership of an Executive Director of Teaching and Learning. Having the additional support of a Director of Learning Design and Teacher Development has enhanced and broadened the scope in this area. This enables the provision of specifically curated resources, programs and opportunities for professional growth through personal reflection, feedback, collaboration, action, research and working with external providers.

The College-wide Professional Growth Program for teaching staff continues to gain momentum, allowing individual and team growth in developing quality effective teaching.

Our College also benefits from the initiatives and professional development programs offered by Independent Schools Victoria (ISV). Some that our staff engaged with this year include but are not limited to, the ‘Teaching Fellowship Program’, pilot programs in ‘Transformational Repair’ and ‘Ideas into Action’. Other staff have completed individual tertiary study to complete Bachelor and Post Graduate studies, including Masters degrees and PhDs.

It was also wonderful to have one of our staff accepted into the Victorian Government’s ‘Teach for Excellence’ program created for teachers of exceptional quality.

Building Capacity to Learn

• Encouraging students to reflect on their place in the world as active global citizens with a call to serve others

• Engaging with curriculum that seeks to make meaningful connections between their learning and the world in which they live

• Acquiring knowledge and skills in all key learning areas, with a thirst to own their own learning, think critically and act on timely feedback

• Linking their personal sense of wellbeing with their competence and purpose as a learner

• Partnering in their learning with teachers of excellence who provide them with deep understanding of curriculum, pedagogy and assessment practices

• Fostering the relationships between home and school, enhancing a partnership that values and nurtures a culture of learning

• Responding to formative and summative feedback from teaching staff, reflecting on assessments and adapting practices that support growth in learning

This focus area is an exciting aspect of the teaching and learning framework with evidence of the positive impact for students already visible. We incorporate key aspects of the global competencies and take an approach to teaching and learning that goes ‘beyond the classroom’ to embrace meaningful and authentic experiences for the students. Teachers create engaging and varied programs curated to support students to take responsibility for their own learning and to make connections with the world around them. Learning occurs in classrooms and in many other settings and environments outside of school.

We continue to explore different ways of learning and it has been wonderful to see it expressed through activism about issues of importance to students – via digital means

and in ‘expos’ attended by peers and families. An ‘authentic audience’ is so powerful in the learning process and allows for key questions to be asked and answered.

Our Learning Environments

• Acknowledging that the physical space of a learning environment is a critical variable affecting student engagement, mode of teaching and learning, and the general tone of the classroom

• Creating spaces that support multiple and diverse teaching and learning programs and pedagogies, including current technologies

• Fostering student ownership and involvement in the creation of their learning environment to empower them, inspire them and assist in developing community

• Constructing and re-modelling facilities that support the user and different uses, whilst being flexible, dynamic and reflective of the environment

• Encouraging the creation of spaces that enhance collaboration and social participation

• Providing physical learning spaces that are safe, secure, comfortable and stimulating for students and staff

• Utilising outdoor learning spaces and environments to harness students’ curiosity, support health and wellbeing, and foster the joy and wonder of nature

Christian College sites have historically been repurposed buildings acquired by the College that have been renovated over time to meet changing educational needs.

Reconfigured learning spaces, new contemporary furniture and the upgrade of technology all play an essential part in creating rich learning environments. Our first green site, purpose-built campus on the Surf Coast has followed a different strategy with prefabricated buildings constructed offsite, and then located in situ, which provides learning spaces in a dynamic and economical way.

New facilities for music performance and a state-of-the-art cluster of new classrooms at the Senior School have been exciting new additions to the College facilities. They are designed to meet the future needs of students and more spaces at various campuses are planned. Post COVID-19, the creation of outdoor spaces to provide flexible alternative areas for students to learn have also become part of the College landscape.

Where appropriate, we have continued to harness the benefits of online learning delivery developed during the pandemic during the return onsite in 2022. This has included the introduction of cyber-safety product that supports students and staff to manage distractions for our young people in the digital space and helps minimise their exposure to potential harm.

Our Thriving Community

• Reflecting a nurturing family that cares for and values each member, allowing them to grow and flourish

• Fostering and underpinning all relationships through daily interactions that encapsulate the College values

• Enabling a diverse range of individuals to contribute to a common vision and purpose

• Encouraging students to serve and share resources to impact the lives of others both locally and globally

• Building healthy and cooperative relationships between all educational stakeholders – students, families and staff

• Creating a culture where all community participants feel safe, valued and listened to

• Promoting a positive culture that values learning where students and staff are challenged and engaged

• Celebrating the unique attributes of each individual and supporting them to expand their physical health and mental wellbeing

• Cultivating a community of confident and resilient students, who are able to thrive in all aspects of school life and in life beyond school

I have always considered our College as one big family. Like all families we have many things that we love about each other; we cherish relationships and enjoy shared experiences. We also understand there are times when we will face challenges, perhaps arising through a lack of communication or understanding, disappointing behaviour or unfulfilled expectations. Schools thrive on people and people rely on relationships and shared values to thrive. But no one is perfect, and life presents us all with layers of difficulty and complexity we have to work through.

The creation of the Wellbeing Framework, and the establishment of a College Wellbeing Team to guide the implementation of the framework, has been a positive and proactive initiative. In 2023 the appointment of a Director of Wellbeing will further enhance the action and development of this framework to support our community to flourish.

The emphasis on mental, personal and physical health, as well as programs to support our young people to develop resilience, will continue to be supported by a chaplaincy team and the pastoral structure at each campus. Staff access training and professional development with Mental Health First Aid to support them in a variety of ways in providing student care.

The events and activities mentioned in my introduction have played a major part in working towards our goal to foster a thriving community. I am also grateful to the Major Events team, and our Marketing and Publications team, for sharing our teaching and learning celebrations with our families and the wider College community in a range of ways, including via multiple online media platforms. This helps keep us connected and allows our teaching and learning to be celebrated and acknowledged, both locally and further afield. The much-acclaimed success for our Year 7 students in the national competition ‘Videos for Change’ was just one outstanding example of local and wider communities being created and cultivated around extremely important social issues.

Each of these goals is interconnected and dependent upon each other to successfully realise what we term, ‘The Learning That Matters’. In working towards our goals, alongside our approach to implement the Global Competencies listed below, we are excited to see a renewed and engaging learning landscape at Christian College that benefits all students and staff.

Global Competencies

The Learning that Matters is informed by, and aligns with, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (2030). Beyond functional job skills, we recognise the need to develop competencies that will have the greatest impact on a student’s success in the global workforce, at the same time supporting sustainable development goals.

Skillful communication

This assists students to share and communicate ideas clearly, become better listeners and engage in respectful interactions with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Problem-solving

This steps students through a dynamic process, often including Design Thinking and/or inquiry-based learning, to create and develop new and innovative outcomes.

Self-direction

This ensures students have the organisational and interpersonal skills to self-manage their time, emotions, resilience, and interactions with others. These ‘soft–skills’ are valued now more than ever.

Digital literacy

A highly necessary life skill. Not only is it essential to enhance learning in just about every subject, it also equips students to safely and ethically navigate their digital world.

Critical and creative thinking

This enables students to uncover complexity, consider different viewpoints, ask questions and reason with evidence.

Collaboration

This prepares students with the skills to interact, work with others and lead in a team environment, identifying their strengths and areas for growth and harnessing the best from their peers.

Literacy and numeracy

These are the foundation skills that underpin all learning areas. They help us to learn, experiment, reason and create throughout the school journey and beyond.

Global connectedness

This enables students to learn from others, with others and for others whilst seeking to make a positive difference. It explores personal and social awareness and contributing to a civil society.

It is my pleasure to present this report to our community. I do so with gratitude to the College Board, Executive, leadership team, the teaching and professional support staff, our students and families for their dedication, support and energy. It has been critical in enabling our community to emerge from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and experience such an outstanding year of progress where we have reconnected and embraced all that Christian College offers.

I thank God for bringing our community together to serve Him and each other as part of the Christian College family.

“The body is a unit, though it is composed of many parts. And although its parts are many, they all form one body. So, it is with Christ.”

1 Corinthians 12:12

Mr Glen McKeeman

Principal

FINANCIAL REPORT

I trust this provides you with an understanding of Christian College Geelong’s financial position as at the 31st December 2022.

Mrs Brenda Lyons Finance Manager

2022 Financial Year in Review

On behalf of the Board of Christian College Geelong, please find below the annual financial report for 2022. Our 2022 operating deficit prior to extra ordinary items was $3,833,068.

Our total deficit was $2,986,853 due to extra ordinary grants of $845,215 received towards the English Languages building at our Senior Campus.

The College Board has a policy of having its real estate assets revalued every three years. The properties were last revalued at 31 st December, 2020 and are due to be revalued in 2023.

ENROLMENTS

Enrolments for 2022 on August census day were 1,992 students.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

$181,782 was expended on professional development.

Profit and Loss Statement as at 31 December 2022:

EXPENDITURE | NON-CAPITAL

Salaries and other staff expenditure including staff entitlements, workers compensation and training

Other expenses

Depreciation

Educational expenses

Operational costs on items including insurance, electricity, telephone

OPERATING SURPLUS/(DEFICIT)

BELLARINE CAMPUS

2022 Key Buildings and Grounds Expenditure

• Basketball/Netball Court development

• Bean Break Café servery

• Classrooms refurbishment

• Playground upgrade

• Landscaping

JUNIOR SCHOOL - BELMONT

• Chapel upgrade

• Classrooms refurbishment

• Landscaping

SURF COAST CAMPUS

• Preparation for Stage 2A build

• Music Module

• Landscaping

MIDDLE SCHOOL - HIGHTON

• Bus and Carpark landscaping

• Classroom refurbishment

• Bean Break Café servery

• Swimming Pool upgrades

• Landscaping

BALANCE SHEET ITEMS

SENIOR SCHOOL – WAURN PONDS

• English Languages building development completion and landscaping

• R. W. Gibson Music Performance Centre landscaping

• Office spaces developed

• Classroom refurbishment

• Landscaping

87.20% Total assets are land, buildings and improvements

55.51% Total liabilities are long term (12 months or more) capital borrowings

The overall net worth of Christian College is $60,789,789 – a decrease of 4.3% on the previous year.

Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2022:

ASSETS

Land and Buildings - Non Current Other - Current Buildings and Grounds Improvements - Non Current Other - Non Current

Teaching and Learning - Non Current Buses - Non Current Debtors - Non Current Bank - Current TOTAL: 82.72% 5.29% 4.47% 3.25% 2.32% 1.58% 0.36% 0.00% 100.00%

LIABILITIES Capital Borrowings - Non Current Leave

EQUITY

$56,837,147 $3,629,498 $3,309,996 -$2,986,852 $60,789,789

COLLEGE PERFORMANCE

2022 Staff Satisfaction Survey

Christian College Geelong - all Campuses

In 2022 staff at Christian College Geelong, participated in the online survey in Term 4. The survey is an evaluation tool developed by Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) in collaboration with the Australian Council for Educational Research. Across all campuses of Christian College, 184 teaching staff and 76 general staff participated in the survey.

For the purpose of this document, the results reported are reflective of the responses of teaching staff only. The graph represents the Christian College school mean compared to statistically similar schools in Victoria. Comparative data is displayed for the past three years, 2020, 2021 and 2022.

Overall teaching staff means versus all schools and statistically similar schools

FIGURE 1: displays overall satisfaction per school-based domain for teaching staff at Christian College Geelong compared to the ISV benchmark.

2022 Parent Satisfaction Survey

In 2022 parents across all campuses of Christian College were asked to complete an online survey developed by Independent Schools Victoria to provide schools with the opportunity to benchmark their results against the Victorian Independent Schools sector. In 2022 data was obtained

from 374 Christian College parent/guardian respondents, a higher sample size than in 2021. The data below compares relevant Christian College parent satisfaction for the past three years in comparison to the ISV Mean.

Overall means per domain versus all schools and statistically similar schools

Christian Ethos School Specific Questions 2022

My son/daughter is aware of the Christian ethos of Christian College. Christian College Geelong 8.85, compared to 8.68 in 2021

I believe the Christian values of grace, truth, love, faith and hope are reflected in the College community’s day to day interactions. Christian College Geelong 8.04, compared to 7.91 in 2021

I support the expressions of the Christian faith at Christian College in worship services, class devotions and service to others. Christian College Geelong 7.92, compared to 7.26 in 2021

My child’s study of Christian Education is important to me. Christian College Geelong 6.28, compared to 5.88 in 2021

FIGURE 2: displays overall parent satisfaction per domain for Christian College Geelong against the ISV benchmark

2022 Student Satisfaction Survey Overview

For the ninth year in 2022, ISV conducted an online Student Satisfaction Survey for Christian College directly to students in Years 5 to Year 11.

Overall, 542 responses were received from Christian College students, a lower sample size than 2021. Results have been compared to the ISV Mean. Data for Christian College is shown for the past three years as a comparison for each domain.

Overall means per domain

Christian College Additional Survey Questions

My teachers encourage me to show compassion and respect for others less fortunate than myself, through active service and giving.

Christian College 7.65, compared to 8.13 in 2021

My Homeroom/Housegroup teacher provides opportunities for discussion and acceptance of Christian values as expressed in the life and teaching of Jesus Christ.

Christian College 7.52, compared to 7.94 in 2021

At Christian College I am learning to understand the meaning of the Christian faith as expressed in the Bible.

Christian College 7.30, compared to 7.82 in 2021

Teachers take opportunities across the curriculum to illustrate the awe and wonder of God’s creation and our responsibilities within it.

Christian College 7.22, compared to 7.71 in 2021

FIGURE 3: displays General Satisfaction per domain at Christian College Geelong against the ISV Benchmark.

Principal

Mr Scott Elliss Vice

TEACHING AND LEARNING EARLY LEARNING

Kindergarten | Care

3-year-old kinder: Mudlarks + Sandpiper Groups

4-year-old kinder: Banksia, Sheoaks Groups

Daycare: Gumnuts Group

Kindergarten | Care

3-year-old kinder: Wombat + Emu Groups

4-year-old kinder: Bilbies, Koalas + Wallabies Groups

Daycare: Possums Group

Programs + Practice

A more settled year with no lockdowns for kindergartens helped families and children establish solid routines again, which generally resulted in the new 4-year-old children settling more confidently into their learning environments in 2022.

With many of the 3-year-old children not having had much socialisation outside of their family over almost two years, educators found that the children needed to be provided with many calming and sensory spaces and a gentle orientation into kinder.

All our programs were in full swing in 2022, with regular bush kinder outings, excursions to various locations and specialist classes.

As a result of the Department of Education announcing up to 15 hours of funded 3-year-old kinder, both Butterfield House and Williams House underwent analysis of their programs and community needs/wants to determine if more hours of 3-year-old kinder was needed/wanted and viable. The results of these findings lead to Butterfield House continuing with their current structure, and Williams House embarking on a Major Workplace Change, to increase the hours of 3-year-old kinder available to families, with the exciting changes to be implemented at the beginning of 2023.

School Readiness Funding

For the second year, both campuses were included in the Department of Education and Training’s School Readiness Funding grants. Both campuses prioritised the areas of Wellbeing and Communication and were able to build lending libraries which provide valuable resources for parents and children. With their additional funding, Williams House gifted each preschool child a book that supported their preliteracy skills.

The funding also allowed both our teams to engage in additional professional development, whilst also providing families with information sessions and support.

Specialists

In 2022, we continued to enjoy our connections with the junior schools. We are grateful to Deanne Elliss and Kevin Smith at Belmont, and Katie Moore and Kate Notini at Surf Coast for brilliantly accommodating opportunities in Library, Japanese and Music for our preschool children. Additionally, Williams House, has continued to engage in a much-valued Japanese program funded through the Department of Education.

Other Collaborative CCG Connections

We remain grateful for the support from our junior school leaders, Ann-Marree Weigl and Debbie Riddle, and for all the behind the scenes support from Jonathan Ryan to Brenda Lyons, Belle Holmes, Bree Manning, Marketing, People and Community, and more practically, Jack Sim and his grounds and maintenance team.

Staffing Butterfield House

In 2022 we farewelled our director, Berna Johnson. A huge thankyou to Berna for all she has contributed to both our kinder communities over nearly 20 years – we wish Berna well with her new endeavours.

We also farewelled Stephanie Egan from our daycare team. We wish her all the best with her future endeavours. We welcomed Chelce Powell to the daycare team.

Jilly Floyd’s role continued to evolve over 2022, with Jilly moving full time into the administrative role.

Congratulations to Monique Bernard on the birth of her daughter Lottie. We look forward to welcoming Mon back in 2023. We also look forward to welcoming back Kath who has been on a period of extended maternity leave after the birth of her son Levi in May 2021.

Williams House

In 2022, we farewelled Merrin Wood, after almost 30 years of service at Williams House and CCG. We wish Merrin all the very best as she enters a new chapter of her life.

We also farewelled Tori Goulter and Vesna Radivojevic who were part of our Possum daycare team, which will not be a part of our program in 2023.

In Conclusion

We are thankful to God for the opportunity to partner with so many wonderful families in their child’s early years, and for the opportunity to work in such positive and supportive environments. We look forward to the growth in both our centres in 2023, with Michelle at the helm at Butterfield House and with the new kinder structure at Williams House.

Mrs Steph Butler Director of Early Learning Williams House

Mrs Bernadette Johnson Director of Early Learning Butterfield House

TEACHING AND LEARNING PRIMARY & SECONDARY

This year highlighted the agility, flexibility, and adaptability of the education sector in meeting the challenges posed by the new normal of the education landscape. The Teaching and Learning program successfully delivered a varied and rich curriculum to our students. The Senior academic results improved, which can be attributed to the strategic goals that guide the program.

Our program continued to develop strength, with the implementation of differing modes of education post the pandemic. Digital delivery of content in many areas were implemented into the classroom, offering new and dynamic ways of engagement, as well as synchronous (traditional, in-classroom) and asynchronous (independent, self-directed) learning environments, to meet the ever-changing needs of our learners.

In addition to the core teaching and learning program, initiatives aligned with our strategic goals for education were implemented. Middle School students at both Highton and Bellarine Campus settled into a new daily schedule that enabled longer teaching blocks and deeper learning opportunities, as well as increased devotional and pastoral time. The Assessment and Reporting Professional Learning Team implemented standardised assessments and an agreed common assessment language across the campuses. Additionally, and a new timely assessment was developed to support our College families in understanding how their child is engaging with, and progressing with their learning, rather than waiting for an indication of achievement level at the end of the process. The Teacher Toolbox was enhanced further in its support for staff with various initiatives. The Professional Growth Program was introduced after a successful trial and it continues to expand and provide opportunities for our College staff to grow in their professional practice. Additionally, the Reach Ideas into Action research program continued to contribute to pedagogical innovation.

Looking ahead, we will review the Middle School structural change and begin Phase 2 of its implementation. We will also implement changes to reporting to show students’ growth over time, and continue to enhance the program through the introduction of the Australian Curriculum V9.0, as we embed the General Capabilities, cross-curricular priorities and key learning areas into our dynamic program, along with the highly anticipated return of international travel.

Mr Antony Benson Executive Director of Teaching and Learning

COLLEGE MAJOR EVENT CORPORATE SPONSORS

Williams House Kindergarten

39 Broughton Drive, Belmont 3216

Tel. (03) 5241 3556

Butterfield House Kindergarten + Care

240 Great Ocean Road, Torquay 3228

Tel. (03) 5264 6803

Junior School - Belmont

39 Broughton Drive, Belmont 3216

Tel. (03) 5241 1565

Surf Coast Campus

248 Great Ocean Road, Torquay 3228

Tel. (03) 5244 8799

Middle School - Highton

18 Burdekin Road, Highton 3216

Tel. (03) 5241 1899

Senior School - Waurn Ponds

135 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds 3216

Tel. (03) 5241 1577

www.christiancollege.vic.edu.au

All enquiries call 5241 1899

Bellarine Campus

40 Collins Street, Drysdale 3222

Tel. (03) 5253 2998

Back Creek Cafe

1/27 Staughton Street, Meredith 3333

Tel. (03) 5286 1166

‘Back Creek’ Scotsburn

6578 Midland Highway, Scotsburn 3352

Tel. (03) 5341 2051

‘Villa Paloma’ Arts/Technology Centre

25 Waurn Ponds Dr, Waurn Ponds 3216

Tel. (03) 5241 8844

Uniform Shop Shop 6/168 High St, Belmont 3216

Tel. (03) 5241 6316