IN FOCUS June 2012
Links to articles New Centre at Bellarine - 4 :. Celebrating Q’ed - 18 :. Quality Teaching Impact - 21 :.
the history of our College. Communities are
others in a positive manner. If you are a
made up of people and there have been
Facebook user I ask that you consider making
many who have contributed to the life of the
Christian College one of your friends and that
Bellarine Campus over the past 16 years.
you support items published with a ‘like’ to
I know that the new facility will be of great
Unveiling the commemorative plaque during the Opening Ceremony at Bellarine
benefit to the students and the programs at
The College App. can be downloaded for
Bellarine. But I know it is the people, the staff,
free following a link on our College website.
students and families who will continue to
It will provide iphone or Andriod users with
make this place the true blessing that it is for
access to information regarding the College
those who make up this community.
on portable devices. Information will include
I am grateful to Mr. Scott Elliss, Mr. Andrew Dunlop and their respective teams for providing such a fitting event to celebrate this wonderful new College facility.
Facebook and the Christian College App.
Bellarine Campus Music, Sport and Performing Arts Centre
news and events, the In Focus magazine, campus information, the Term Calendar, Uniform Shop and Canteen information as well as my blog. Over time, additional features will be included to keep our families well informed regarding our College activities.
Naplan Testing
I was honoured and pleased to be asked
Continuing our development of electronic
to participate in and speak at the Official
communication with our families and
Opening of this magnificent facility at
the broader community the College has
our campus on the Bellarine Peninsula. In
introduced a Facebook page and a College
preparing for the day my task being to share
App. for iPhones. The Facebook page will
something of the journey of this campus
display news and events to highlight the
since its inception in 1996, I could only
many efforts and achievements throughout
look back with thankfulness to God for His
the College. As the page attracts friends
This year the students were asked to produce
provision and blessing.
and people like the articles or news items
a piece of persuasive text as part of the
published it is hoped that these good news
Writing Test. The same stimulus was given to
stories about our College and our students will
all year levels across Australia. The topic was
spread throughout the digital community.
‘Everyone should learn to cook’.
assemblies or a place to worship. It is the
Part of this process is hoped to also promote
Students were given five minutes at the
sense of community and shared vision that
good modelling of digital communication
start of the test to plan, 30 minutes to write
has built this and the other campuses over
where people can support and encourage
and five minutes at the end of the test to
The new facility is a wonderful place for community activity whether this be sporting activities, music or drama performances,
Page 2 :.
share these with your own Facebook friends.
Recently students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 completed testing as part of the National Assessment Program –Literacy and Numeracy Program (NAPLAN) 2012, conducted by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA).
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Mr Michael Peck speaks at the Opening Ceremony at Bellarine
edit their work. The marking criteria was developed and agreed to at a national level. The ten criteria assessed are: 1. Audience – the writer’s capacity to orient, engage and persuade the reader
word associations
performance and learning. Our detailed
diverse culture and tone of our College.
reporting system and the vitally important
I encourage all families to make a habit
Parent / Teacher (and as appropriate student)
of regularly visiting the College website
Conferences each play an important role in
www.christiancollege.vic.edu.au to see for
providing parents and students with detailed
themselves the wonderful things that are
feedback on student learning.
taking place.
Student Achievements and Performances
Head of Junior School Change
appropriate punctuation to aid the reading of
Throughout the year I have been delighted
Mr. Stephen Riddle’s intention to step down
the text
to see the number of students who have
from his role as Head of our Junior School,
participated in a range of activities and
Belmont for medical reasons.
endeavours representing the College. These
The College has benefitted greatly over
7. Paragraphing – the segmenting of text into paragraphs that assists the reader to follow the line of argument 8. Sentence structure – the production of
2. Text structure – the organisation of the
grammatically correct, structurally sound and
structural components of a persuasive text
meaningful sentences
(introduction, body and conclusion) into an appropriate and effective text structure 3. Ideas – the selection, relevance and elaboration of ideas for a persuasive argument 4. Persuasive devices – the use of a range of persuasive devices to enhance the writer’s
9. Punctuation – the use of correct and
10. Spelling – the accuracy of spelling and the difficulty of the words used
have included sporting, music, creative and
Parents will receive results of this testing in
academic pursuits. This is a very important
September.
aspect of the culture of schools. These
It is important for parents to note that the
students have been acknowledged on the
assessment of student learning involves a
College website as well as at assemblies
6. Cohesion – the control of multiple
broader process taking into account a wide
by their peers. I add my congratulations to
threads and relationships across the text,
variety of indicators. Our College carries
those who have supported and participated
achieved through the use of referring words,
out a range of assessment strategies which
in the many opportunities offered for the
ellipsis, text connectives, substitutions and
consider many factors concerning student
way that they have added to the rich and
position and persuade the reader 5. Vocabulary – the range and precision of contextually appropriate language choices
Page 3 :.
Student musical items presented in the new auditorium at Bellarine
Earlier this term the College was informed of
the past 19 years from Stephen’s gifts as an educator and his love and compassion for others. We wish him well as he takes time to recover. Please keep him in your prayers. The College leadership has commenced the process of appointing a replacement Head of the Junior School at Belmont. Glen McKeeman, Principal.
1
Students, staff and families from the Christian
The new Australian Curriculum includes a
College Bellarine Campus celebrated the
strong emphasis on the arts and sport, so this
opening of their cutting edge performance
brand new facility is timely to facilitate the
facilities with the Official Opening and
greatest learning opportunities possible for
Service of Dedication of the Centre for Music,
our students. It will also be available for public
Sport and Performing Arts on the 25th
events to extend this benefit to our local
May, 2012. The Centre was officially opened
community here on the Bellarine Peninsula.
by the Chairman of the College Board, Mr James Shirley and the Principal, Mr Glen
The Auditorium
theatre production, ‘Cinderella’. This will be a wonderful opportunity for our College community to come together to celebrate live theatre and see this amazing venue at work.
sports participation. Wet weather wash outs
The auditorium also affords us some exciting opportunities in our delivery of teaching and learning. Year level lectures are now a reality, allowing teaching staff to present a concept to the whole group, before breaking off in to some smaller tutorial type groups for further exploration and discussion.
indoor sporting pursuits.
are a thing of the past, with the new stadium providing an expansive space for Basketball, Volleyball, Badminton, Netball and various
Upstairs is a fitness circuit room and across the spans of one mezzanine floor sits 6 table tennis tables. A health room also adjoins this area for theory classes and teacher
McKeeman. The Principal, who was also
With full theatre seating for 320 people, it
the founding Head of Campus at Bellarine
offers us versatility to accommodate a variety
spoke of ‘The Journey‘ of the Campus from
of year level assemblies, guest speakers,
its commencement in 1996 with 62 students
musical performances, parent evenings and
to the fine school it is today with almost 500
drama classes. In Term 3, the auditorium will
The faculty staff have a spring in their step,
of the foundational motor skills and for the
students enrolled from Prep to Year 9.
provide the perfect venue for our inaugural
now having some fabulous options for indoor
successful mastery of sporting techniques.
Page 4 :.
Physical Education, Health and Sport
guided learning. To be able to take our students, Junior and Middle School, out of the elements is important in the learning
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
2
Already the students are enjoying a raft of
Symphony Orchestra with ease. What a
lunch time sporting activities, sports trials and
wonderful vehicle to build on our students’
House events in the new stadium. This facility
confidence and performance techniques.
also has the capacity to seat 800 students for
Performing Arts
formal occasions and whole school events.
Music
It is vitally important for students to have the opportunity to be able to express themselves
The consolidation of all music facilities in this
through theatre and performance. Whether it
one new Centre is already bearing fruit. The
is conveying an emotion, a character or telling
collaboration between students, music and
a story, drama and theatre are integral facets of
instrumental staff has been a joy to witness and
providing a well-rounded educational program.
going from strength to strength.
community groups, sporting clubs, and local
Serving the Community
organisations across the Bellarine.
to be inspired for drama and auditions
The Centre for Music, Sport and Performing
We are both humbled and blessed to be the
Classroom music is conducted in the open
will begin soon for our opening theatre
Art has the scope to not only benefit the
recipients of this fine Centre of Music, Sport
plan design, allowing plenty of room
performance of Cinderella. Adjoining the
students, staff and families at Christian
and Performing Arts here at the Bellarine
for students to move around, play the
stage area to both sides are ramps declining
College. This is a community facility, with a
Campus. We look forward with excitement
instruments or create small group pieces.
to the ‘green rooms’ underneath the building,
wider scope and purpose of ‘bringing people
to seeing its potential unfold and that of our
Teacher led music instruction can be
the perfect place for donning the costume or
together’. After all, that is the essence of
students, both now and in the future. We are
completed in the adjoining theory room,
making those last minute adjustments before
community. The Rotary Club of Drysdale were
appreciative of the dedicated efforts of all
which is also amply equipped with computer
launching on to the stage to perform.
our debut guests over the Easter weekend
who have planned and worked to make this
this year, with some 800 people attending to
such an amazing community facility.
I believe we will all be the beneficiaries of some fine musical performances as the year unfolds.
technology for music making and analysis.
The Auditorium is proving the perfect place
Dance will also be another ‘benefactor’ of this
view their Annual Art Show.
Further down the hall you will see the music
facility, with ample space for both rehearsal and
offices, along with numerous private tuition
performance. Drama, performance and dance
The new facility played perfect host, the
rooms for the teaching of instrumental music.
provide a great outlet for student expression,
main stadium being set with Art displays
Larger ensemble groups can use the rehearsal
both individually and through working together
and a mobile café set up in the delightful,
space, which is big enough to accommodate
as a group. To now have our own specialised
Cyprus lined foyer. It is shaping as a busy year,
our Bellarine Concert Band or combined
facility to foster this creative art form, I can see it
with enquiries being made by various other
Page 5 :.
Scott Elliss, Head of Bellarine Campus 1 . Junior Physical Education class in the new Sports Centre 2. The expansive foyer a meeting place on Open Day, 2012
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Year 8 camp, the Prefects were instrumental in the establishment of the campsite and the Each year I am constantly astounded by the
leadership of small group activities in what
quality of our young leaders and their selfless
was an exciting and successful bush camping
desire to serve their College community.
experience for our Year 4’s. Despite being very
Since the beginning of the year our Year 9
tired, the Prefects have further developed
Prefects have been a blessing to both fellow
their positive relationships with the younger
students and staff through their positive and Christian College Bellarine held a most
money in their “hats”. All money raised went
successful Buskers Day on 7th June, with 29
to support Open Family Australia, who have
different groups signing up to participate.
been helping the lives of young people in
Buskers ranged from singers, gymnasts,
at-risk or homeless situations for the last
magicians, group bands, individual
30 years. A BIG ‘THANK YOU’ to the buskers
musicians and we even had two students
who willingly shared their talents with us to
doing Shakespeare recitals.
raise an amazing $850
The students busked right through their
proactive engagement in leading camps, excursions and College events. The Junior School “Get to Know You” beach activity day at Point Lonsdale was a great opportunity for the junior students to meet and interact with the Prefect group through various rock pool and beach activities. The
students while at the same time enhancing their leadership skills through the hands on experience. Further to the camping experience for the Year 4’s was an opportunity to explore the concept of ‘paddock to plate’. Lead by Year 9 girls from the Bellarine Campus, who were in residence
Prefects were outstanding in their enthusiasm
at Back Creek , the students explored the
and willingness to engage with and encour-
processes of farming and where what we eat
lunch period while students, staff, parents
Kristie Van Es, Project Care Co-ordinator,
age the younger students, with some strong
comes from. An enjoyable aspect of this was
and grandparents walked around putting
Bellarine Campus
bonds established.
the opportunity to participate in the process-
A new initiative this year was to conduct 2
Page 6 :.
ing and even taste some of the farm produce.
days of the Year 4 camp at the Back Creek
Nick Watson, Co-ordinator Years 8 and 9
Farm. Utilising the kit huts and sites of the
Bellarine Campus
As Term two concludes our students are
overwhelmed by the Art works being created
putting the finishing touches on their own
in response. Each week children bring in their
Mini Malis.
own drawings of what a decorated Mali might
Junior School students have created a
look like. Others bring in their research data
miniature white elephant sculpture in their
including nature studies and detailed drawings
Art classes from a variety of modelling
indentifying the listed endangered animals.
materials. The Year 4’s have loved using Mod Rock which sets much like the plaster used for broken bones. The Preps to Year 4 have used paper clay which is very soft and ideal for little hands to manipulate. We now commence researching the endangered animals that wlll be used to decorate Mali. The Mini Malis take shape in Art classes at Junior School
These include: The Helmeted and Hodded Honey Eaters, Spotted Tree Frog, Black tailed Rock Wallaby and Eastern Barred Bandicoot. Our endeavour is for all the children at Junior School to create a small piece of Art linked with the images of the related animals. We
The Melbourne Zoo have been very generous with resources and support. Recently teachers leading the Project were involved in a professional development day which saw them engage with zoo staff to further develop ideas and liaise with other Mali Project workers. On the 25th of June we will host two Melbourne zoo staff for an incursion. Children will have an opportunity to work alongside the staff and further develop their ideas for conservation. We will be able to show how our wonderful
As a part of the Melbourne Zoo’s 150th
involved in a very special, mass participation
then use these images to cover our White
students have become enriched through this
Birthday celebrations schools were invited
cross curricula spectacular that will stomp
Mali. Already we have some Senior and
fabulous experience and they can show off
to submit a proposal that would see them
into life with fun creativity and colour. Under
Middle school students who would have
their Mini Mali’s.
directly involved in promoting creativity,
the guidance of Art teacher, Mrs Beck-
expressed an interest to become involved in
citizenship and environmental awareness.
the design and implementation.
Everyday Mali is admired by visitors and the
Carlson our students will paint, decorate and transform the white elephant into a beautiful
This project has been a wonderful way
sculpture which will be on show at a number
to encourage our students to embrace
of venues before taking part in the Gala
the natural world and take on the role of
celebrations at Melbourne Zoo in September
custodians. Children have been very creative
and then coming back home to Junior School.
in their approach and staff have been
Junior School, Belmont submitted their proposal to receive a life size fibre glass elephant and were successful. This now allows the Junior School to be
Page 7 :.
children have decided they just must have their photo taken with her. Jennifer Beck-Carlson, Art Specialist Junior School Belmont
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
insect (out of 10 eggs) in the whole schools program. Well done! ‘UNO’ (number one) is under constant surveillance from the students and Science teacher Ms Deb. Singleton as this species was thought to be extinct for over 80 years. Specifically, the Year 8 Environmental Studies group and the Year 9 Science students are particularly involved with the data collection and study of these special animals. Our Year 8 Environmental Studies group is interested in animals, especially endangered species. They have shown a special interest in the Orangebellied Parrot, as these birds over-winter on the Bellarine Peninsula. So students are tuned in to endangered species. Welcome LHISI’s! Year 8 students also want to be ‘bug buddies’ At the end of last term Christian College
to land a boat. However, a rescue team leapt
Bellarine received the exciting news that we
ashore in 2003 and brought two breeding
had been successful in applying for some
pairs of Lord Howe Island Stick Insects back to
critically endangered Lord Howe Island Stick
mainland Australia.
Insect eggs to hatch and raise as part of our conservation studies.
Page 8 :.
At the time of their rediscovery, very little was known about Lord Howe Island Stick
with Years 1 and 2 students at Bellarine, who are studying Minibeasts, and show them one REALLY special insect: LHISI There is a constant stream of young students who are keen to spot Uno our number one stick insect amongst the foliage in his enclosure each day. He has since moved
The Lord Howe Island Stick Insect,
Insects. Melbourne Zoo plays a important
Dryococelus australis, was driven to the
role in the captive breeding of this Critically
brink of extinction by Black Rats in the early
Endangered species. As part of the
Further information can be gleaned from the
twentieth century. However, in 2001 it was
Melbourne Zoo program 20-25 schools from
Melbourne Zoo website
rediscovered on Balls Pyramid, a rat-free
around Victoria applied for and gained the
http://www.zoo.org.au/lord-howe-island-
volcanic outcrop 23 km off the coast of Lord
responsibility of raising Lord Howe insect
stick-insect
Howe Island.
numbers at their schools.
The seas around Balls Pyramid are too rough
Christian College Bellarine hatched the first
upstairs to the next branch of his fodder tree!
Deb. Singleton, Teacher of Science, Bellarine Campus
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
In 2011 with the completion of the new administration building in sight, plans to identify some of our buildings with their House areas began. Students were invited to be a part of the design process with the final design work and construction performed by former Christian College parent Mr Mark Trinham. Each House mural encapsulates the House mascot, colour and name. The artwork is specifically designed for the outdoor environment and will deliberately rust over time to contrast with the wall on which it is mounted. Three of the four murals have been located in their House areas with Burrows to be installed once the preparation of the wall is complete. Dianne Martin, Deputy Head Senior School
A group of very excited Prep children from the
learning about how all forms of transport have
Bellarine Campus participated in a ‘Transport
evolved over time.
Excursion’, as part of their Integrated Studies unit this term.
The Preps were able to use their new found knowledge to plan and build their own clay
The day began with a train trip through
model cars to take home with them. As well
tunnels and over railway bridges from South
as enjoying a wonderful day out and about,
Geelong to Lara. The students then boarded
the students gained much knowledge about
a College bus for a ride back to the Geelong
our transport systems, their many different
waterfront, where they enjoyed a snack before
features, how we are able to use them to help
hopping aboard the Hygeia for a relaxing cruise around Corio Bay. The day concluded
us and also how invaluable they are to the entire community.
with a short walk to the Ford Discovery
Melissa Smith, Prep to Year 2 Co-ordinator,
Centre where the students toured the facility,
Bellarine Campus
Page 9 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Jordan Drew, Year 12 drills a half volley
Character and Sportsmanship It is lunch break at the Senior and Intermediate Geelong Independent Schools Sports Association (GISSA) Netball Carnival and I am talking to some of the umpires about how the event is progressing. Mary, an
Year 8 Physical Education Class training in the new Circuit Room
Louise McCarthy, a Taylor Year 7 student is
Goal Attack and Captain shoots a look of
Ken knows that Christian College students
racing to the finish line in the House Cross
disappointment at the Wing Attack, the
respect each other and the places they travel
Country. On the sidelines are a group of Year 9
Wing Attack drops their head for a moment,
to. The kids do the right thing!
leaders who are cheering and yelling words of
understanding the mistake they have made.
support and encouragement as she drives to
The Captain seeing this walks over and taps
the line. Louise placed 6th.
the Wing Attack on the back as a way of saying ‘let’s move on’. They do, with the Wing
These situations are not uncommon occurrences as we attend the many and varied sporting events we offer at Christian
experienced umpire who has attended many
It is the Semi Final of the Year 7 and 8 Boys
netball carnivals in her time, says “You know
Victorian Schools Netball Championships.
what Jonathan; I enjoy coming to umpire
The game is tight, with Melbourne High
GISSA carnivals. The students, including those
beginning to claw back from a 3 goal deficit.
We arrive at the Geelong Lawn Tennis Club
from your school are so polite, the game is
The Christian College Wing Attack has been
for the Christian College Year 7 & 8 Tennis
played in a competitive yet good spirit, the
called for stepping and slams the ball down
Championships. We are greeted by Club
players respect the umpires, their coaches
into the ground. The umpire imposes a
manager Ken Barton, who welcomes the
and each other. It is a true pleasure!” I shared
penalty of a free shot on goal to Melbourne
players and speaks to them about enjoying the
this with the players during the official
High – they score; 2 goals down, Melbourne
day. No mention of behavior or expectations
Jonathon Ryan, Director of Teaching and
presentations at the conclusion of the day.
High centre pass. The Christian College
on students is discussed. From past experience
Learning - Sport and Physical Education
Page 10 :.
and Goal Attack working together to record a nail biting 1 goal victory.
College. A culture of respect, doing the right thing and pulling together to achieve a common goal is evident when Christian College students attend events. At time mistakes are made; it is how we react after making the mistake that shows something about the character of the person.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Middle Years Physical Education Physical Education in the Middle Years
engagement levels have been higher than
devoted an enormous amount of time to
in the past.
training and competition in the lead up to the National Championships and we
at Christian College has undergone a
Just as the students bring a specific ‘skill set’
transformation. The new Sport Centres at
and understanding to each discipline, staff
Middle School and the Bellarine Campus have
members too, whilst trained in all facets, have
provided the opportunity for the department
strengths in particular disciplines. Providing
Andrew Medew, Year 11, Baseball; Andrew
to explore new and different ways in which to
an opportunity for staff to use their strengths,
was a member of the successful Victorian
deliver the Physical Education program.
ultimately improves the program.
team that defeated New South Wales in the
Utilising the multi-discipline areas of each
A component of Health and Physical
of the new centre’s - Aquatic*, Circuit
Education is lifestyle change. A multi
Room, Gym Floor and Multi use space, the
discipline approach assists by providing
Jordan Drew, Year 12, Tennis; Jordan was
program offers students the opportunity to
the building blocks in a variety of physical
a member of the Victorian team who
be educated in, and to experience activities
pursuits so that students can become and
competed in Toowoomba, Victoria placed
related to aquatic fitness and water safety,
remain healthy individuals as they grow
3rd in the event.
strength and conditioning and to be engaged
and develop.
in sport related drills.
*Aquatic Centre at Middle School. Bellarine
Michaela has been selected to represent
For example a Year 7 student attending a
students travel to Bellarine Aquatic Centre
Victoria at the National Swimming
Physical Education class at the Middle School
Dale Hemley – Sports Co-ordinator
may participate in a swimming lesson that contains lap swimming and diving practice;
Middle School Highton
in drills related to Basketball.
achievement.
Final of the National School Sport Victoria Championships in Adelaide.
Michaela Caldow, Year 9, Swimming;
Championships. This is the second year in a row that Michaela has been selected. George Blagojevic, Year 10, Basketball; George
rotates through activities using their own body weight in a circuit class and participates
congratulate them on this outstanding
Team Vic
has been selected to represent Country Victoria at the National Basketball Championships to be
Christian College congratulates the following
held in Dandenong, Victoria.
Each student brings a different set of skills,
students on their selection in Team Vic State
James Syddall, Year 10, AFL Football; Jamie
knowledge and enthusiasm to a session.
teams. Team Vic are teams selected by School
has been selected to represent Country
By using a multi-discipline approach staff
Sport Victoria to compete at the National
Victoria at the National Championships to be
members have noted student’s interest and
Schools Championships. Each student has
held in Adelaide.
Year 10 Basketballer George Blagojevic in action
Page 11 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Part of the winning Penman House Choir in performance
The Taylor House ‘Thong-a-Phone’ on stage This Annual House competition gives the
responsibility for their work, and gain skills in
as well as a whole House choir (some even
Empires ‘Fishies’. The Champion House Choir
entire Senior Campus an opportunity to
leadership while supporting, encouraging and
including their House teachers). The musical
was Penman House with their Lion King
participate and celebrate the gift of making
respecting their peers.
items ranged from classical solo works, movie
Medley and the overall Champion House for
themes to modern popular works. Some items
2012 is Penman House.
music together. The Costa Hall facility gives our students an experience on a world class concert stage in front of a large audience. The Concert also allows each House and the community the chance to encourage and celebrate their outstanding musicians. The
This year’s adjudicators Mr Ben Calderazzo, a local jazz identity and teacher along with Mr Ross Irwin, a Melbourne based performer, writer and arranger with an international reputation (who has worked with such groups
2012 House Music Competition was a lively
as ‘The Cat Empire’). They both were impressed
event with a great vibe.
with the student performances.
All sixteen items presented are rehearsed
featured students’ arrangements of works to suit the instrumentation available to them within their House. Congratulations to all the performers and prize winners. The adjudicators
The Highton Rotary Star Search Competition This is Geelong’s longest running talent quest. The competition involves a large
awarded the Champion House Soloist to
number of amateur performers from the
Constantine Karatenislis (Year 12 Flynn
community going through an audition
The general student population gains a small
House) for his technically brilliant clarinet
process to be selected to perform in the
and presented by the students themselves.
glimpse as to what it takes to rehearse, prepare
solo. The Penman small ensemble caught
final. The final was held at The Costa Hall
Through this experience the students
and present a musical performance. Each House
Mr McKeeman’s eye winning the Principal’s
on Friday May 11th with Christian College
experience what it is to work in a team, take
presented a soloist, a small and large ensemble
Choice award with their version of The Cat
students appearing in 7 of the final items
Page 12 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
The Christian College finalists in the Australian Youth Classical Music Competition
Judge Ben Calderazzo presents Constantine Karatenislis with the Champion Soloist trophy at the House Music Competition
– the College was represented by Katelyn
clarinet solo. Both of these performances
and is a national and regional scholarship
Christian College is proud to announce that
Shirley, Adam Di Martino, Jamie Parker,
were accompanied by Mrs Regina Thomae
competition for young classical musicians.
all 4 finalists in this regional competition
Rhiannon Irving, Constantine Karatenislis
and were presented with convincing
The regional event is known for attracting
are Christian College current or graduated
all Year 12 students and the Senior String
musicality.
the most outstanding young musicians
musicians. Congratulations to Aidan Hodge
Ensemble – comprising Year 11 students
The vocal solo section saw Adam Di
from both secondary schools and tertiary
(Tenor Saxophone), Constantine Karatenislis
Martino, Year 12 take out first prize
music institutions. Events such as this allow
(Clarinet), Jamie Parker (Violin) all Year
Armstrong, Lily Pipkorn, Emily Carpenter
with Rhiannon Irving receiving an
‘elite’ young performers to strive for their
12 students and as well Georgia Williams
and Ainsley Liley. We are very proud of
encouragement award. Adam with his
very best. From the initial audition process
(Flute) a 2011 Christian College graduate.
their fantastic performance work and
friend Emily Jacker also won the ensemble
12 semi -finalists were chosen to compete
Recognition must also go to the students’
congratulate them on being selected
section. The Christian College Senior String
for a place in the final and a chance to win
instrumental teachers - Ben Anderson,
to perform in the final of such a well-
Ensemble were awarded third place in the
the $3000 first prize.
David Gardner and Ben Castle as well as
recognised community event.
ensemble section.
Jamie Parker received third prize in the
The Australian Youth Classical Music Competition
Alice Waddell, Victoria Wright, Reshae
Instrumental Section for his violin solo
The 12 semi-finalists performed for the adjudication panel on Thursday May 31st and 4 finalists were selected to perform in
their accompanist Regina Thomae for their expert tutorage, guidance and support of the students.
with the encouragement award going to
This contest is held each year by the
the grand concert to be held on Thursday
Fiona Gardner, Director of Teaching and
Constantine Karatenislis of Year 12 for his
Geelong Advertiser Music Scholarship Trust
August 16th at Costa Hall, Deakin University.
Learning -Music
Page 13 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Christian College Middle and Senior Schools
As Middle School Leaders Mr and Mrs Hines
collected for the Salvation Army Red Shield
and Mrs Friday were equally impressed with the
Appeal on Sunday 20 May from 3 areas in
students when they brought their money in and
Highton and Belmont . The combined amount
were asked to count it and record details. This
collected by both groups was $3968.
was done very cheerfully and accurately.
The students were dressed immaculately in
The South Barwon Salvation Army were very
College uniform and were all keen to help the Salvation Army. There were 50 students from Middle School and around 30 students from The whole Senior School took part in this
colourful clothes to ‘Brighten up the Day’.
fundraiser for Cancer Research on Friday 8
The Head of Campus then chose the outfit
June at morning recess. House groups set up
that best reflected the occasion.
colourful tables with a range of homemade treats to tempt staff and students. Everyone was asked to wear their most
Page 14 :.
The students enjoyed the festivities whilst contributing $1000 to Breast Cancer Research from their donations.
grateful and full of praise for the fine job our students had done on their behalf.
Senior School together with about 15 teach-
Thirty two students, five staff and eight parents
ers and many parents also on hand to help.
from the Bellarine Campus took part in the
A comment made by a student at how amazed they were that someone had given $100. It gave us a wonderful opportunity to share how
Doorknock, giving over two and a half hours to collect from homes in the Drysdale area. $1550 was collected by the students on the day.
many kind and generous people there are in
The Bellarine students who participated were
the world that we never hear about.
extremely enthusiastic about helping those
The feedback from both parents and staff
less fortunate in our community and wore
was how enthusiastic and courteous our
their College uniform with pride.
students were.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Years of Year 11 and 12. Staff at Christian
technology competence, critical and creative
and the Australian Curriculum looking for
College have been preparing for this for the
thinking, ethical behaviour, personal and social
areas where there is complete agreement –
past eighteen months and are well positioned
competence and intercultural understanding).
and there are many – and areas where some
for a successful transition.
These will equip our students to effectively
modifications will need to be made. Various
What is the Australian Curriculum?
engage with and prosper in society, compete
staff groups have met to discuss and make
in a globalised world and thrive in the
The Australian Curriculum sets out what all
recommendations on areas ranging from
information-rich workplaces of the future. In
young Australians are to be taught, and the
timetabling to reporting to parents.
addition to the general capabilities there are
expected quality of that learning as they
three cross-curriculum priorities (Aboriginal
progress through schooling. At the same time
and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures,
it provides flexibility for us to provide this
Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia
education within a Christian Worldview, and
and Sustainability). Continuation of learning
to build on student learning ensuring that
has been developed for each, to describe the
each student reaches his or her full potential.
relevant knowledge, understanding and skills
It is a curriculum which emphasises the
at particular points of schooling.
importance of knowledge, understanding and skills of learning areas, general capabilities and cross-curriculum priorities
Christian College – Ahead of the Game
as the basis for a curriculum designed to
Staff at Christian College have been preparing
support 21st century learning.
for the Australian Curriculum since 2011.
Why have an Australian Curriculum?
Under the guidance of Faculty Directors and Deputy Heads of Campus (Curriculum), staff in the first instance became familiar with
At the end of this term staff will work at our Staff Retreat with one of Australia’s foremost educators, Dr Julia Atkin, on the Australian Curriculum and for the second semester this year develop or consolidate units of work incorporating material from the General Capabilities and the Cross Curriculum Priorities. Many Christian College staff members have attended professional development sessions both here in Geelong and in Melbourne. Consistently, the feedback from the educationalists has been that Christian College staff have demonstrated a notably high knowledge and awareness of the Australian Curriculum compared with many
In 2013 all schools in every Australian state
Increasingly, in a world where knowledge
and territory will begin implementation of the
the structure of the Australian Curriculum
itself is constantly growing and evolving,
documents. Particular attention was paid to
new Australian Curriculum initially in English,
students need to develop a set of skills,
the Achievement Standards, the Content and
We look forward to incorporating the
Mathematics, Science and History from the
behaviours and dispositions, or general
Skill Descriptors and the relationship between
Australian Curriculum into our College, to
Prep Year to Year 10. These will be followed by
capabilities that apply across discipline
these. Staff are also well aware of the General
teaching it within a Christian Worldview,
Geography, the Arts, Languages and later the
content and equip them to be lifelong
Capabilities and the Cross Curriculum
and using it to enhance what we already do
remaining subjects focusing on Economics
learners able to operate with confidence in a
Priorities - their purpose, their relevance and
without compromising any of our current
and Business, Civics and Citizenship, Health
complex, information-rich, globalised world.
where they fit into the subject and Year level
strengths and positive attributes.
and Physical Education, Design and the
The Australian Curriculum includes a focus
Technologies. Concurrently with this, work
on seven general capabilities (literacy,
This term in faculty teams audits are being
Head of Higher Education and
is being done to cover the Senior Secondary
numeracy, information and communication
carried out comparing our current curriculum
Staff Development
Page 15 :.
they are teaching.
other schools.
John Rose PSM
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
The 2012 Christian College Debutante Balls were proudly celebrated on Friday 1 June and Saturday 2 June. This year heralded the first time Christian College was able to conduct these occasions on our own site utilising the new Middle School Sports and Aquatic Centre. The Friday night ball was attended by 28 couples and 600 guests. The Saturday night ball had 22 couples and wonderful audience of 420. Proudly compering the evenings were the Year 11 Co-ordinators, Mrs Strauch and Mr Moore. Each couple was presented to the College CEO Mr Daryl Riddle OAM, The College Principal Mr McKeeman and the Head of Senior School, Ms Strong. On both nights we were entertained by the debutante group performing eight different and traditional dances beautifully. The students are to be commended for the way they prepared for the evening over 10 weeks of training and for the way they supported each other and presented themselves. It is a pleasure to reflect on what were amazing family occasions with many parents, grandparents and extended family dancing the night away to the music of Tobias. The Page Boy and Flower Girl were just as excited as the Debutantes
Special mention must go to our Junior School Flower Girls and Page Boys Isobel McDonald and Sam Blomfield from the Bellarine Campus and Olivia Richardson and Lachlan Moloney from Junior School Belmont. These four young people led the formal presentations with such confidence and grace. Finally I would like to extend my thanks to the staff who generously gave up their time to help make these nights so successful; we are truly blessed to have these wonderful people within our community. Dianne Martin, Deputy Head, Christian College Senior School
Page 16 :.
The Debutantes were presented to the College Principal, the College CEO and their wives
The dance floor lighting sets a great atmosphere for the exhibition dances
Christian College representatives with Mr Riddle at City Hall after the ceremony
On Friday the 18th May, Mr Daryl Riddle,
independence, made by the people of Timor
The flags were raised by two members of
CEO of Christian College and four Christian
Leste ten years ago. We also had the privilege
Australia’s Armed Forces. This was done while
College Highton Year 8 students attended a
of meeting Venencia, a Timor Leste national
singing the national anthems of each country.
function at Geelong City Hall, to mark East
who is currently teaching at Christian College
Timor’s 10th year of independence.
Preschool, Williams House.
At the ceremony, we listened to a student
After the forum, Mr Daryl Riddle OAM gave
written in Timor Leste, about freedom and
forum with a number of speakers explaining
an address and we then watched the raising
independence.
their travels in East Timor and the problems
of both the Australian and East Timor flag,
the country is currently facing. We learnt
which were raised at the same time, to mark
about the incidents surrounding the vote for
the friendship between the two countries.
Congratulations to Year 10 students from
placed in teams of between two and five
Senior School who won the regional
members and assigned either one or two
competition at Deakin University on 25
engineering challenges for the day. The
May. The team will now progress to the
challenges involved everything from creating
State Championships later this year.
satellite dishes to receiving coded digital
The Science & Engineering Challenge is a nation-wide competition which runs for students in Year 10. The regional competition
(This report was written by Hayley Gough Year 8, Middle School, Highton)
controlled air balloons which had to be steered through an obstacle course. The finale was construction of the lightest, strongest bridge. The Christian College construction
and involves 16 schools from the Geelong
was the only one to withstand the full weight
area. Competition was held over two days,
of the ‘bridge buster’
On the day of competition students were
participated in the reading of a poem
messages, to developing electronically
was held at Deakin University Waurn Ponds,
with 8 schools competing each day.
After the unfurling of the flags, we
Nick Ward, Teacher of Science, Senior School The successful team delighted with their trophy at Deakin University
Page 17 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Parents and students at the Q’ed 2 launch in the Senior Library
Mr McKeeman and Q’ed 1 students wearing their thinking caps In 2011, Christian College established
resources, models, mystery objects and online
Try your skill at this creative thinking exercise.
Q’ed 1 will operate every Tuesday morning
the highly innovative Q’ed 1 Program for
facilities are readily available to students in our
What do you see in each of these images?
at the Senior School in the Q’ed House
talented and gifted students in Years 5,6
wonderful physical and cyber Q’ed classroom
Concentrate on the shape and the colour of
throughout Terms 2 and 3. Staff members,
and 7. The College recently announced Q’ed
environments.
each.
Mrs Kelly, Mrs Smith, Ms Mocan and Mr Cody
2, a comprehensive second year program
2012 Launch: Qed 1 and Qed 2:
which emphasizes online and digital learning possibilities to enhance students’ capacity to
Excitement abounded on the 22nd of March at
learn and manage their own learning.
Senior School at the launches of Q’ed I and Q’ed
Q’ed House
2 as staff, students and parents experienced a
This year Q’ed has made a vibrant and stimulating home in the former Drama House
small, tantalizing taste of Q’ed 2012.
Q’ED 1
at Senior School and it has not taken long for
Students, parents and staff engaged in a
the space to be transformed with interactive
highly charged, lively learning environment
displays, including a giant brain and ‘Fred’,
at the Q’ed 1 launch, undertaking creative
our resident skull and brain model. Bright
thinking challenges and exploring interactive
displays, challenging materials, posters,
displays.
Page 18 :.
will work with Q’ed 1 students to tackle another ‘BIG QUESTION’. See the ’fruits’ of
imagination
their endeavours at the Q’ed Exhibition to be
wonder
held at the Senior School Chapel on Tuesday 4 September 2012.
randomness impact
separation
confusion
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Q’ed 1 students summed up their
state of the art technology options available
impressions as follows:
within this space, students and families were
“So far we have learned more about ourselves as learners and have learned how neuroscience is helping us to find out more about how our brains learn”.
introduced to some intellectually vigorous aspects of online learning. The program facilitators, Mrs Lean, Mr Vanderkley and Mrs Smith, unveiled the cyber classroom, the ‘Belonging’ blog, through which much of the
“We have each made a thinking cap decorating
new and challenging learning is to occur. A
it to show how our individual brain learns
highlight of the launch was a Skype session
and have also made a model of our brain out
with Mr Tom March, a renowned educator
of plasticine to remind us that we have the
and proponent of Web 2.0 technologies and
ability to enhance our capacity to learn due to
their capacity to enhance learning. Students
neuroplasticity.’
also completed a critical thinking routine
“We learn in many different ways in Q’ed, like
entitled ‘See Think Wonder’; capturing their
games, challenges, acting, group activities, art
responses on the Q’ed 2 ‘Belonging’ Blog.
and maths instead of just writing and listening
‘I see a new opportunity to find useful tools on
to the teacher all the time. It’s fun.”
the web to help expand our learning.’
“I have never really thought about how I think
‘It makes me think about all the digital learning
and learn and it is hard to do. Q’ed makes me
we will be doing in Q’ed this year, like what we
do this but I am getting better at it. I now realize
will learn and how?’
that it is really up to me to use my brain well.”
Q’ED 2 Launch The vibrant learning environment of the
‘It makes me wonder what we will do this year with our new knowledge and what programs we will use.’
new Senior Library provided an ideal context
Merinda Kelly and Roselyn Smith,
for the launch of Q’ed 2. Accessing various
Co-ordinators of the 2012 Q’ed Programs
Page 19 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au Darcy Aylen, engrossed in creating an individual profile of how her own brain learns
plums/blackberries 380 x 200 mm Watercolour
Early this year Mrs Jennifer Beck-Carlson,
‘Of course I was very humbled to have my work
journey meaningful. Especially in our rapidly
the specialist Art teacher at Junior School in
hanging alongside some of Australia’s best and
changing world of modern technology it is
Belmont was thrilled to have been invited
my greatest mentors. This has given me great
lovely to see that there is still room for beauty
to exhibit some of her detailed Water-
encouragement to continue to pursue my own
in nature.
colour paintings of plants, fruits and flowers in the Sydney Botanical Gardens Exhibition, “Botanica 2012”. This exhibition showcased the artistic work
education in the field of visual art and to strive for excellence in my chosen field. Furthermore this experience reinforces the importance of visual communication and creativity.
hanging our childrens’ Art up in an important
I came away from this experience even
of 78 Australian Artists, some of which are
more determined to encourage my students
extremely important illustrators in the field
at Junior School to develop a passion for
of natural science and their work is held in
the beauty in our world. It is a joy to impart
many important museums and art galleries.
my growing knowledge and develop my
Mrs Beck-Carlson commented about the Botanica 2012 Exhibition –
I would like to add that this exhibition experience reaffirmed the importance of space to allow us to feel that sense of worth. Our Annual Christian College Art Show held early in Term 4 is just one of those events to foster this.’
students observation and creative skills. For students this process helps them to better understand their world and make the creative
Papaver sp. poppies 300 x 420 mm Watercolour
Page 20 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
We have been blessed wonderfully by God in recent years with great additions to our facilities and resources at Middle School Highton but it is the people who make Christian College a unique school.
and his or her prior achievement.” This simply added to a long list of previous presenters including Dr David Sousa and Dr Julia Atkin who reminded us that quality teachers can impact the students’ learning in
centre in which students train, swim, exercise
excel which is why we have invited many
and play in every Physical Education session.
experts to have input into our campus life.
This is a case where not only the program has benefitted and grown but the students have been impacted very positively. They are growing daily and are striving for excellence.
We have had scientists, doctors, authors, artists, sports coaches, musicians, psychologists and many other highly skilled
Professor Stephen Dinham from Melbourne
an incredible way. The resources and facilities
University spoke to staff at our 2011 retreat
at the teacher’s disposal are simply a tool.
One could write paragraphs about each
guide and further enhance the learning
New Facilities and Learning
faculty area and how the passion, love and
opportunities of our students. We also take
The use of the Sports and Aquatic Centre by
expertise of the teacher is the major factor
the opportunity to involve our students on
influencing our students’ learning.
excursions to witness such experts in the field
Visiting Experts share Experiences
and share in their work and experience.
and emphasized the difference that quality, effective teaching can make for the learner. He stated:
our staff at Highton has been just one such
people attend our school to lecture, teach,
“The teacher and the quality of his or her
example. The building on its own is simply
teaching are major influences on student
that, a building, but under the direction of
Christian College staff do not pretend that
Just recently Sue Lawson, a notable
achievement, along with the individual student
expert Christian College staff it becomes a
they have the answers to help every student
author, spent a number of days working
Page 21 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
with students at Middle School inspiring
all teachers to be lifelong learners. Christian
their writing and offering them great
College teachers have taken up this
encouragement and advice. This program is
challenge which ensures that our students
offering unique opportunities for students to
are being mentored in their learning by
be mentored, guided and extended in an area
experienced learners (the teachers).
of their passion.
Growing in the Christian Faith
The Q’ed program for gifted and talented
As a Christian College, growth in faith in
students continues to challenge our
Jesus Christ is very important to us. At
students to stretch their thinking and
Middle School we have staff accepting the
learning capacities and has added the online
opportunities provided to study God’s Word,
dimension for our Second Year students.
share devotions and pray which allows
The expert guidance of Mrs Roselyn Smith,
authentic conversation and learning in the
Mrs Merinda Kelly, Mr Steve Cody and Mrs
area of faith. The teacher again offers quality
Chris Lean (along with a large team of staff
teaching from experience, not theory. The
as mentors) continues to grow this program
student learns as much about God, if not
not just to extend those who are able but to
more, from their teacher’s actions and the
further inform our classroom practice.
love they share.
Mrs Alex Page-Walker is doing valuable work
Thank you for the affirmation and positive
to help those students who need a little more
feedback we receive from our families. This
help to gain extra confidence and skills in
encourages us greatly to continue to grow as
literacy and numeracy. Alex has a love for our
teachers so that we might further bless our
children and a desire to see all succeed.
students.
The author Parker Palmer advocates that
Wayne Hines, Head of Middle School,
“you teach who you are” which challenges
Highton
Author Ms Sue Lawson works with students in a Middle School English class
Page 22 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Mrs Strong presents the Year 10 winners with their medallions
This program has become a valuable tool in the
can range from organised special events such
successful transition of Year 5’s into the Middle
as the Pancake Day and Games Day, to just
School at Highton. The Year 9 mentors volunteer
‘hanging out’ together on wet days.
for the program and are recognized as part of the Middle School student leadership team.
The mentors have cooked pancakes for their buddies and have recently enjoyed a games
The program allows Year 9 students to meet their
rotation afternoon in the new sports centre.
On Saturday 26th May, 16 Indonesian lan-
Earlier in the Term Christian College students
Year 5 ‘buddies’ 2 or 3 times per term to take
Other plans for Terms 3 and 4 include a Maths
guage students from Bellarine, Highton and
won 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in the Geelong
part in a range of activities together designed to
activity afternoon, Devotions prepared by
Senior Campuses represented the Geelong
regional competition hosted at Surfcoast
link the Year 5 students with the older students,
mentors to share with Year 5’s, board games one
region at the State Finals of the Sayembara
Secondary College and were awarded with
helping them to settle in to Middle School and
lunchtime, mentors invited to Year 5 classrooms
Lisan Indonesian speaking contest, held at the
feel connected to the older students.
during wet weather and the mentors to assist
Sidney Myer Asia Centre Melbourne University.
For the Year 9s, this is a great opportunity for leadership experience through mentoring and guiding younger students who look up to
with Year 5 Project Care fundraising. The plan is to finish the year with shared Christmas activities and a party.
Congratulations to
had prepared well for the 10 minute individ-
opportunities to be together and there is always
2 Peyton Greiner, Christian College Geelong
plenty of fun and laughter.
(Bellarine) who gained Second Place in Year 7 Beginners Competition 3 Lydia Mackie, Christian College Geelong (Highton) Year 8 who gained third place in
Page 23 :.
(VILTA) members commented on the high standard of Christian College students, who
by example.
Marisa Bettiol, Year 5 Homeroom Teacher
Victorian Indonesian Teachers Association
gained second place in the Year 10 Competition
Both the Year 5’s and the 9’s really enjoy the
take part in a range of shared activities which
colours of the Indonesian flag.
1 Christopher Bottrell, Senior School who
them as positive role models, thereby leading
Once the students get to know each other, they
gold, silver and bronze medals featuring the
the Continuing Indonesian Competition
ual interview and competed against Indonesian language students from metropolitan and country schools. Photos 1792 and 1793 are of Sue Strong in the Indonesian classroom presenting Yr 10 Indonesian boys with their medals from the Geelong Regional Speech Contest.