From the Principal
March 2011 Newsletter
The 2011 academic year commenced with an obvious sense of excitement. The extra days provided to the staff to finalise preparations for the commencement of classes allowed valuable cross campus planning opportunities which were positively received and utilised. This also meant that our classes resumed coinciding with the commencement of contract bus services that transport a number of our students to school each day. There was also special excitement for the many new students commencing at Christian College this year particularly those starting school in Prep. I wish to take this opportunity to warmly welcome those families who have joined our community this year. I have been pleased to have the opportunity to meet families at the Welcome Services and picnics conducted at each of the campuses. These are a great opportunity for us to gather together allowing staff and families to meet informally and to spend time sharing in worship.
New Facilities.
Mr McKeeman and Mrs Strong congratulate the newly appointed Senior School Captains and ViceCaptains
After many months researching, planning and designing, the much anticipated new Senior School facility comprising an extensive library, staff areas and administration is complete and now operational. This facility has already received wonderful endorsement from the students and staff who are benefitting greatly from the provision of this outstanding learning and resource space.
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Scholarships 2012 Last month the College offered scholarship opportunities at Year 5, 7 and 10. Students applying for these places have recently completed examinations and shortlisted candidates will attend interviews before the end of term. This initiative, together with a strategic process of reviewing the academic program, aims to consolidate and improve the achievement levels for all students. Detailed analysis of student results is providing us with data to support this strategy.
Q’ed program Next term will see the exciting launch of the College enrichment and enhancement program ‘Q’ed’. Selected students from Years 5, 6 and 7 will have the opportunity to participate in collaborative, high order creative thinking and challenging learning experiences at our Senior School. Research, collaborative and critical thinking skills developed through this program will be a great benefit to these students. Indeed, as new assessment rubrics and curriculum programs are developed in all teaching and learning areas that reflect these aspects of higher order learning, all students will gain from the introduction of this approach to classroom practice. Toward the end of last year a promotional DVD was filmed across each of the campuses, including the farm, ‘Back Creek’. As part of the preparation and filming for this production I was reminded of the extensive range of opportunities that are provided for our students. Equally the vital role that our teaching staff plays in the lives of our students was clearly obvious in the instruction of students as well as the formation of their values and character.
From the Principal (cont’d) Teaching and Learning To this end as part of the strategic plan that we are developing for the next 5 to 10 years at Christian College we will continue to support and encourage our teachers in their provision of educational excellence for our students. Research shows that they are the single most impacting resource in any school in terms of improving student outcomes.
Student Leaders 2011 Over recent weeks each campus has inducted new student leaders to a variety of leadership positions. The pleasing aspect of these roles is the opportunity and encouragement it provides to serve others. Jesus encourages us to love and serve our neighbour. It is through serving Him that our students will experience the purpose God has for each of their lives. Beyond those selected to these leadership roles our College aims to provide each student with opportunities to serve others each day. This year our Senior School Captains Alexandra Ward and Alexander Barber together with Vice Captains Mardi Vasey and Anna Selamy have the task of
The Year 11 Ethics class at work in the spacious new Library complex at Senior School
leading our student community in this challenge. I congratulate them and pray that God will bless the contribution they make to our College this year.
Staff and Parent Survey 2010 In Term 4 last year many of our families and the majority of our staff completed on line survey
questions to provide us with feedback regarding the delivery of programs and the satisfaction of our staff. This data has provided positive indications about what is happening across the campuses with the levels of satisfaction above the average of other Independent Schools throughout the state in both surveys.
Congratulations Graduates of 2010 I wish to congratulate the graduating class of 2010 on the excellent results they achieved in completing the VCE. I particularly congratulate Chris Pring who was Dux of Christian College with an ATAR of 99.5. Chris has commenced studying a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at Monash University. Other notable achievers were, Andrew Tiglias 97.95, Cameron Smith 96.5, Emily Watson 94.45, Julia Thurman 94.1, Santo Tripodi 93.1, Alexander Cameron 92.4 and Emmaleine Savio 91.15. The following is a summary of some of the institutions at which our 2010 graduates have accepted places for 2011. University of Melbourne (11), Monash University (9), LaTrobe University(11), Deakin University (44), University of Ballarat (17), RMIT (5), Victoria University (7), ACU (4) Swinburne (11) and 10 students to TAFE Institutions. Some of the courses our graduates have been accepted into are Engineering, Sciences, Education, Health, Arts, Music, Information Technology, Commerce and Business, Fashion and Design, International Studies, Criminology amongst others. It was particularly pleasing that a high percentage of the Dux of Christian College, Christopher students received their first choice in first round offers. I wish each of the graduating students every success as they embark Pring with the Principal at the 2010 Graduation ceremony on the next stage in their lives. I also wish to congratulate David Bowden, Callum Hicks and Cameron Smith on being selected to perform in the prestigious VCE Top Class Gala Concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre. It is quite rare and particularly pleasing to have this number of students selected at this elite level which is a true testimony to our musicians and the Music Program. 2
However, we also appreciated receiving constructive suggestions of ways in which the College can improve. These are currently under investigation including improving communication and transition between campuses, providing improved information to families regarding College events and the consideration of including additional practical and vocational subject offerings at our Senior School such as VET. The respective Heads of Campus have commenced addressing or considering these matters as we continue to ensure that we offer the best opportunities and programs to support our students and families. A major aspect of this process will involve improved communication through electronic means.
Electronic Communication At the commencement of this year we launched the College Parent Portal. As this feature of the College electronic network expands it will provide each family with greater access to information regarding students and their involvement in the College. We are also expanding the use of email and SMS communication as we endeavour to phase out printed communication in an effort to increase efficiency and reduce our use of paper product. Already the College calendar is distributed electronically and, over time, other forms of communication will follow. The Term 1, 2011 Student Interim Progress Reports to parents will be distributed electronically towards the end of this term. Details regarding this process will be forwarded to you shortly. Over recent years it has been concerning to note the increasing amount of paper that is used throughout the College. At the commencement of Term Two we will be introducing print monitoring processes that are aimed to teach our students to be accountable for the printing and photocopying they undertake. Details regarding this process will be forwarded to families later in the term.
the Musical”, a musical production celebrating the work of Dr Seuss. I am looking forward to these performances early in Term Two. We also have a number of House and Interschool sporting events occurring in coming weeks including major carnivals. Already the swimming carnivals have demonstrated strong levels of competition and House spirit.
‘My School’ Website Much media attention has surrounded the expanded version of the Federal Government “My School’ website. This year the data includes financial information in addition to educational information. With regard to the educational data I ask that families consider the extensive assessment and reporting processes that the College undertakes throughout the year to provide you with accurate on balance information regarding each student. It concerns me greatly that the limited data obtained from one source of collection is used to indicate the quality of education that is provided at any school. This data provides a limited snap shot taken on one day that does not take into account the broader aspects that make up an excellent educational program, such as the development of values, character, communication skills, confidence, decision making and emotional, spiritual and physical growth for our students. Should you have any questions regarding this process I encourage you to speak with your respective Head of Campus. Finally I wish to farewell my secretary Mrs. Jessica Maddock who is taking maternity leave for the next 12 months. Jess has provided outstanding support to me and the many aspects of my involvement throughout the College. As a result she has made a significant contribution to a large number of students, staff and families. I wish Jess and her husband Jonathan God’s richest blessing as they await the arrival of their first child. Mrs. Lisa Pemberton has been appointed to fill this replacement role.
2011 College Production
Glen McKeeman PRINCIPAL
The excitement of having a College production is upon us again. Already this year rehearsals are well underway for “Seussical 3
From the Uniform Shop Sunhats. Parents should be aware that the Uniform Shop at Middle School now has navy wide brimmed College sun hats in stock. Because of the added protection provided, these hats will be compulsory for all students in Prep. through to Year 9 from the commencement of 2012. Other College hats will be acceptable for the remainder of this year. College caps will continue to be available for Senior School students and some College sporting teams.
Secondhand Uniform The Christian College Uniform Shop sells only good quality, clean second hand uniform items on consignment from parents. It has recently come to our attention that a Second Hand Books and Uniform Shop in central Geelong is offering items for sale that are NOT the current Christian College uniform. Such items will not be accepted as part of our College uniform. Families are advised to check that any second hand items purchased at retail outlets other than the College Uniform Shop (particularly winter skirts, rugby tops and ‘Back Creek’ tops) are part of the current College uniform and in a condition that reflects the high standard of uniform expected by the College.
Senior School Report It has been wonderful to greet our returning and new students at the start of the academic year and I am reminded of the passage in Isaiah 43:18-19 which says ‘Do not cling to events of the past or dwell on what has happened long ago. Watch for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening already....’ Each and every year we all get a chance for a fresh start, to let the worries and concerns of last year go, and to look for the new thing that God has promised that He will work in our lives. I am looking for all the new things that are at work in the lives of all our students and staff and know that God has some great things planned for us.
The Senior School Chaplain’s Prayer of Dedication for the new Head of Senior School
New Staff It has been wonderful to welcome four new members of the teaching staff this year - Mrs Tegousis and Mr Fanning into the English department, Mr Peake into the Maths/ICT departments and Mr Benson into the Art,Technologyand Design Faculty. We wish them well as they settle in to our College. Already each of them has made a positive start and brought fresh ideas to their classrooms.
New Facilities It has been an exciting time at the Senior campus as, over the summer vacation we have moved into our new premises. The fabulous new library is able to accommodate three classes at one time, as well as individual workers and a group in the seminar room. The space is very inviting, both because of the design and the attractive furnishings. The technological support that enhances the learning of our students is seen in the large number of laptops and the catalogue system. Our students are telling us how much this new space encourages them to work and to enjoy the process. We also have a new administration section in the building and the main difference is that there is now a separate entrance for parents and students. The new sick bay is large and comfortable and the building also houses a number of offices for staff. The light and airy new board room is being used for the
College Board meetings, Head of Campus meetings and other such gatherings. The staff are soon to move into the new staffroom and then all will be completed inside the complex. As you will see, the landscape gardeners have been hard at work changing the surrounding grounds and they will be at work for some time yet to come. There have been so many people who have worked hard to get this suite of buildings up and ready for our use, from the designers, engineers, tradesmen, cleaners, landscapers, administration and teaching staff. I would like to personally thank all who made a contribution and to acknowledge that their skills and talents have been part of a whole that has come together to serve our senior community well.
VCE Top Acts It was great to attend the Top Acts performances at the Melbourne Recital Centre in February. At this concert series
The Senior School staff and students participating in the World Day of Prayer 4
New Staff 2011 the most outstanding Year 12 Solo Music Performance students from throughout Victoria performed a piece from their final assessment performances in 2010. We had three students, Cameron Smith, Callum Hicks and David Bowden perform on the day; they represented themselves their families and our College with excellent performances and presentation.
This year we are pleased to welcome both experienced and graduate teachers to our team of dedicated teaching staff. They have settled into the campuses well and we look forward with anticipation to their contribution to our College program
World Day of Prayer On Friday, March 4th, the whole campus prayed together for World Day of Prayer. All the students and staff joined hands or linked arms, forming a huge circle and together we prayed for Christian College, Geelong, Australia and the world. It was so very pleasing to see all our students so respectful and silent as our student representatives prayed.
Positive Networking Our campus seems to be bursting with new ideas and enthusiasm and our staff are working on enhancing their already considerable skills. For example, we have a number of classes where students are communicating with one another and their teachers through Edmodo, continuing their learning conversations beyond the classroom. It is pleasing to see the helpful outcomes that can result through the positive use of social networking to aid students’ engagement and learning.
Opportunities Other projects that our students have shown a passion for this year include supporting Relay For Life, an environment group, a prayer group and a working party to East Timor in the June holidays. Likewise staff are taking on projects such as web 2.0 technologies and inspiring leadership in young men to name a few. So, as we begin this year, I look to the future with great enthusiasm. Our students have so many and varied opportunities to have experiences in the classroom, the laboratory, the rehearsal room, the oval, the swimming pool, the library, the Villa, the outdoors, the community of Geelong, interstate and even overseas. I encourage all to take hold of these opportunities and to make the most of their days with us at the Senior School.
Susan Strong Head of Senior School
Back Row (L-R) Ms Kim O’Connor, Upper Primary Bellarine Mr Daniel Fanning, English, Senior School Mr Antony Benson, Design & Technology Senior School Mr Simon Piasente, Science, Middle School Highton Mr Nicholas Rice, Lower Primary Junior School Belmont Mr Simon Peake, Mathematics Senior School Mr Jason Morrison, Chaplain Middle School, Highton Front Row Mrs Bronwyn Tegousis, English, Senior School Mrs Tania Siketa, Accounts Payable, Middle School, Highton Ms Hannah Coulter, Lower Primary, Junior School Belmont Mr Mark Orton, LOTE, Middle School, Highton Ms Rebecca Bertoncello, Instrumental Music, Junior School Belmont Mrs Sheryn Bartlett, Administration, Middle School Highton Ms Jessica Bennett, Science, Bellarine Absent from Photo: Mr Stewart Armitage, Instrumental Music, Bellarine Ms Carol Mallett, Drama, Bellarine and Middle School Highton
Student Photographs for College Promotion At various times throughout the school year, photographs of students may be taken in class, in sporting teams or when involved in a broad range of learning activities. A selection of such photographs or videos may be used for College publicity, class displays, student presentations, media presentations or for student teacher folios. Staff are always careful to choose only appropriate photographs to support our printed publicity, promotional material, newsletters or news and events reports on the Christian College website www.christiancollege.vic.edu.au However, if any parents do NOT wish their son or daughter to be photographed for these purposes or named in College publications, please notify the Head of Campus in writing at your earliest convenience.
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Middle School, Highton News It is wonderful to hear the buzz of excitement and anticipation as students and parents arrived at Middle School on the first day of the year.
New Staff We have been blessed to have new staff join us at Middle School. Mrs Robyn Maddock is continuing in her role as Chaplain at Middle School in a part-time capacity. It is therefore with great pleasure that we welcome Mr Jason Morrison as our other Middle School Chaplain. Jason comes from a chaplaincy background and has already distinguished himself by attending 3 Term 1 camps. He has enjoyed getting to know both students and staff and looks forward to meeting parents. Mr Simon Piasente is also an invaluable addition to our Science faculty and brings with him a wealth of experience in the areas of curriculum and pastoral care. Mr Mark Orton joins our LOTE faculty not just as an Indonesian teacher but as a man who has a passion for the Asian people and their culture. This is evidenced by Mark’s work in the region after the Boxing Day tsunami of 2004. Again, Mark has enjoyed his class work and getting to know students both in class and on camp.
Opportunities The joy for us, as Christian College Staff, lies in our belief of Middle Years Schooling and the important role it plays in every child’s life. We know we have the
opportunity to continue to add to the foundations laid in Junior or Primary School and we also have the ability to build into each child’s life in such a way that will enable them to develop skills vital for their Senior School learning. The opportunities available to our students are numerous and diverse. The ability for students in Years 5 and 6 to avail themselves of secondary resources and curricula such as Science, Food and Technology, Design and Technology (Wood) to mention just a few, is wonderful. Equally the love and care of the Homeroom Teachers that continues into the secondary Years 7, 8 and 9 should never be underestimated.
Safe –Valued – Listened to The Middle School motto is Safe – Valued – Listened To, and it is with this in mind that we seek to empower our students. All the wonderful programs will amount to nought if a student does not feel safe within the school environment. In Middle School we seek to follow Jesus’ teaching of love and compassion as an outward expression, not an inward theory. We know safe students are happy and ready to learn. The years of adolescence are precious and need to be treated as such. In Middle School there is a great emphasis on ensuring that each student recognises his or her value as a beautiful creation of
God. It is not what we can do that defines us, but our uniqueness in the world in which we live. We want every member of our Middle School community to know that God has a special plan for each life and realise that it is an exciting journey as we each discover this plan.
Respect Respect is infectious. As we offer it we gain it, as we withdraw it we lose it. Middle Years are a most formative time for each individual discovering more about themselves and the world in which they live. It is our desire that they do this with a sense of love and integrity. Middle School is a time where students can learn that what they have to say is important but there are also other significant people in their lives who deserve to be heard. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. We all have the right to be listened to.
Camps and their Value Camps are often a conduit for all of these concepts to take form and be put into practice. Our recent Year 6 and 7 camps were no exception. The opportunity for students to work together in teams, to exercise their special gifts and to experience and celebrate the talents of their peers was certainly experienced. The chance to help a friend in need and exercise initiative can never be overlooked as we grow into what Safe – Valued – Listened To; actually means. It is with all these things in mind I welcome the Middle School community - students, families and staff to the 2011 College year and wish everyone God’s richest blessings throughout the year.
Wayne Hines Head of Middle School Highton Horse riding at the Year 6 Camp at Mill Valley Ranch 6
From the Head of Junior School It is always exciting to begin a new year and at Junior School we have had a wonderful start to our academic year. It has been my privilege to welcome our new families into our school and to experience the sense of community especially at our Welcome Service and Family Picnic and at the Prep. parents’ morning tea. As well as our Preps we welcome many new students from Year One to Year Four and their families.
Resources Being in the business of developing our children we have also been busy over the holiday break adding more resources to the campus. To compliment the new IT lab and Music Room we have also acquired thirty more laptops to be used within a classroom setting.
Curriculum Development Continuing to “grow” our students will mean that this year we will be developing further ways to extend our students with their particular strengths. After the successful introduction of the DIPL program last year we are currently reviewing the strategies in our Mathematics program. The aim, as in the literacy program DIPL (Doorway into Practical Literacy) is to provide our students with the most effective program that will achieve optimum results for our students. A professional learning team has been formed and parents will be kept informed throughout the year. Providing education challenges, especially for gifted students, whilst maintaining their emotional, social and spiritual development with their peers will again be a priority in 2011.
Student Leaders It was exciting to recently witness the Induction of our House Captains and Secretaries at a formal ceremony held with the Middle School at the Barrabool Hills Baptist Church. Congratulations to the Year 4 Junior School student leaders for 2011:
Burrows House: House Captains Hamish Todd, Emily Bagnara House Secretaries George Elliss, Georgia Potter
Flynn House: House Captains Aaron Richardson, Kara Doig House Secretaries Peter Gill, Elizabeth AnduezaMossop
Penman House: House Captains Ryan Bell, Darcy Aylen House Secretaries Byron Lanyon, Tia Bell
Taylor House: House Captains Zachary Devonish, Tess O’Neil House Secretaries Harrison Lazarus, Ruby St. Ledger
New Staff This year we have welcomed two new staff to the campus – Ms. Hannah Coulter and Mr Nick Rice, It is also wonderful to have Ms Laura Yates back with us after a year teaching and holidaying overseas. Her experience will be greatly appreciated at the Year 4 level. One of the most satisfying aspects each year is the growth in demand for places, especially at the Prep.
The Welcome Service at Junior School in ‘full swing’
level. As you may be aware we have moved from two Prep classes to now having three over the past three years. With offers being sent out at the moment to our kindergarten families we will know soon if there are any places left for Prep enrolment in 2012. Continued strong growth allows us to plan our academic year in relation to staff and resources. As a community of parents, teachers and children we need to work together to achieve both the best academic outcomes we can for each child as well as to develop young people of the finest quality who will make a difference in their world. I have noticed that our sense of a loving, caring community is growing every year and this is adding another dimension to the lives of our students here at Junior School. In conclusion I trust that your family will have a very successful, fulfilling and rewarding 2011. Let us continue to teach and encourage our children to see beyond themselves and discover the reality of what it means to have a purpose driven faith in God.
Stephen Riddle Head of Junior School, Belmont
Year 3 boys are proud to receive their College bibles 7
Bellarine Campus Report It is always exciting to begin a new year at the Bellarine Campus. In particular I would like to extend a warm welcome to those families beginning their educational journey with us as part of the Preparatory Year and also in Year 7. I enjoyed catching up with many of you at our Family Welcome Picnic and for those families I missed, I am sure we will have opportunities to catch up as the year unfolds. Once again it has been a very smooth start to the year and to this end I am grateful for the work all staff and parents have contributed in ensuring the students’ have a positive beginning to 2011. The atmosphere around the campus has been vibrant and the students have settled very well into the rigours of the new College year. As I write this article, we have recently held the Bellarine Campus Student Leaders’ Induction and Service of Dedication. What a thrill it was to come together as a community to pray for, support and acknowledge those students who will be fulfilling a leadership role in 2011. These include our Junior School House Captains, SRC (Project Care) representatives from Years 4-9 and our Year 9 House Leaders, Prefects and School Captains. Adolescents often carry a reputation for being sullen and hard to reach; however, I believe many young adolescents can be among the most passionate and motivated in our society. They simply need to be challenged, given opportunities to accept responsibility and ongoing support to foster their success through these more turbulent years of immense physical and emotional change.
Professor Susan Sawyer suggests that at 14 to 16 years of age, young people start becoming acutely aware of their place in the world. They become aware of their academic standing and their social standing and even their status in sports, music and the arts. It is the increasing brain maturation that allows young people to compare and contrast themselves against the world. Year 9 is a common time for our young people to start comparing themselves with others. Often they find it challenging to have the language to articulate the emotions they are experiencing. They often don’t know the emotions they are experiencing and therefore they are not actually able to process what is really going on. This can make communication with adolescents a challenge for teachers and parents alike. I’m sure we are all familiar with that ‘monosyllabic grunt’ as a response to our questions. Year 9 can be quite an introspective time in their life, in fact much of adolescence can fit this description. It is a time when young people are generally focused on themselves. For this reason, much of what we offer educationally to our Year 9 students at Christian College aims to provide opportunities that genuinely challenge young people to move beyond themselves and their own focus. In our quest to develop in them a heart to serve others and live with a wider sense of ‘community’ the rural program at ‘Back Creek’ provides the perfect opportunity to experience this in everyday life. Working, living and communing together on the dairy farm for five weeks
Mr Elliss congratulates the 2011 Bellarine School Captains, Emma McDonald and Harrison James.
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is the ideal time for our young people to check their ‘perspective’. A 2008 report released by the Research Branch of the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development titled, ‘Understanding Year 9 Students’, outlined the factors that contribute to a successful Year 9 cohort. Some of the findings from this study revealed that Year 9 students: • Are more likely to be motivated by curriculum that relates to meaningful life events, experiences and questions that are of interest to them • Flourish when provided with opportunities for intensive off-campus, community based learning experiences • Benefit greatly from having opportunities to experience adult-like roles and responsibilities • Excel when celebrated and recognized for their contributions, efforts and achievements • Are generally able to perform highly when connected to their school and through having a significant adult relationship (mentor) from within or beyond the school community I believe these findings further reinforce to us the immense value in having our Year 9 students from Christian College attend the ‘Back Creek Rural Studies’ program. Further, the opportunities our Year 9 students have to offer practical, servant hearted leadership in our Middle School, can only serve to enhance the experiences and overall educational outcomes for our students. Our Year 9 students constantly exceed my expectations as leaders, as evidenced in their recent leadership of our Junior School camps, the House Swimming Carnival and the Junior
Sprockets and Flares School Rock Pool excursion to Point Lonsdale. It is their willingness to serve, show initiative and their ‘teachable spirit’ that really demonstrates what our 14-15 year olds can achieve when given the opportunities and support to do so. All of these practical experiences, when implemented alongside our Christian values and following a Christ like example, are powerful reminders that our young people can certainly change the world. It is humbling for us all to be reminded that our lives in Christ are really about giving and serving others. May we all be inspired to reach out a helping hand and give hope to those in need. May we take the opportunity to encourage, strengthen, counsel and lift up someone else, and may we all practise the teachings of Christ and experience the joy of serving others throughout 2011.
Scott Elliss Head of Bellarine Campus
Junior School winners proudly display their trophies On the last day of school for 2010, 15 Junior School Belmont students attended the annual Sprockets and Flares Ceremony. Sprockets and Flares is a Geelong Schools ICT competition and each year students enter their work into varying categories and age groups. We had success in the following categories. Brooke Sanderson – Gold award for her slideshow presentation in the Prep – 2 category. Joshua Weigl – Gold award for his slideshow presentation in the Prep – 2 category. Joshua Spence, Kieran Lad and Cooper Rae for their animation in the Prep – 2 animation category.
Congratulations Youth of The Year Ben McCarthy in Year 11 represented his Zone in the finals of the Lions Youth of the Year Award recently. He won both the Public Speaking Award and the Overall Award so he will participate in the District Finals, representing the entire western part of Victoria in Melbourne.
Debating Courtney Boreland, Lena de Rosso and Amy Birchell, Year 9 were invited by the Debating Association of Victoria, to try out for a position on the State Debating Team.
Music Pathways Christian College celebrates and congratulates the success of its Year 12 music class from 2010. Successful admission to tertiary music courses is based on the student’s performances at auditions as well as their academic performance. Places in the top music performance courses are sought in a very competitive field of highly skilled young musicians. Many of our Year 12 musicians from 2010 have opted to continue their music in a range of ways beyond their Secondary Schooling. Jacqueline Robins (Piano),
Callum Hicks (Tuba), David Bowden (Trumpet) and Melissa Shirley (French Horn) have all been accepted by the Faculty of VCA and Music at the University of Melbourne to commence a Bachelor of Music. David Farrell will be studying a Bachelor of Science at The University of Melbourne and alongside this will be studying a Diploma of Music Performance playing trombone. Jordan Riddle (Vocals and Guitar) has started a P-12 teaching course at Victoria University majoring in Music and IT while Cameron Smith (Clarinet and Saxophone) is studying Engineering at Monash University. Cameron has auditioned successfully for the Melbourne Grainger Youth Orchestra and received a personal invitation to perform with the Monash Philharmonic Society’s ensembles. Alister Turrill (Guitar) has commenced a Diploma of Performance - Jazz at Diversitat Geelong. Others, such as Lewis Clark have continued to play by joining local community groups. Lewis will be playing his Euphonium in the Geelong Concert Band.
Equestrian Tori Fair, Year 4 Bellarine competed at the Canberra Royal 9
Tori Fair at a recent equestrian competition Show and was declared Champion pony on Radford Lodge, Candy Cane and at Werribee Park EV State Titles was also declared Champion Pony there. Tilley Fair, Year 1 Bellarine, rode side saddle at Barastoc Horse of the Year in a leading rein class which was the first time this had been done. Tilley also won leading rein in the Welsh Pony class. Tori and Edwina Lumsden, Year 3 have qualified for the Grand Nationals in Sydney.
English Report This is an exciting time to be a part of the English faculty at Christian College. There are a number of initiatives and it is anticipated that students across the College will reap the rewards. During the last two years a strategic plan for the faculty has been developed which has as its underpinning aims: 1. Encourage and promote continual drive toward excellence in teaching and learning practice. 2. Achieve sustained improvement in student performance in internal and external assessments. 3. Establish greater efficiencies in resourcing of teachers and students 4. Raise the profile of English and related skills and activities across the College. Intrinsic in these aims are a number of objectives that will have significant impact on the day to day learning of students across the College.
Technology in the classroom It is anticipated that in coming months and years, we will continue to see a broader integration of relevant technologies into the English classroom. This year, we have successfully submitted to the Australian Government Quality
Teaching Programs for assistance in furthering the awareness and understanding of teachers in what and how technology can be used with greatest effect in and beyond the classroom. Year 8 students have already seen a markedly different approach to class discussion about their reading and understanding of selected novels. This now takes place on a secure and carefully monitored ‘blogging’ site which allows students across classes and campuses to discuss elements of their books with teachers.
Learning Styles With increased awareness of both the relevance and importance of accommodating different student learning styles, teachers across the College will be consistently reviewing and refining units of work to provide opportunity for students to demonstrate their learning in a range of different ways. It is anticipated that this will provide students with a greater variety of choice and learning experiences while maintaining rigour in their work program.
Assessment and Rubrics Last year saw the introduction, at Christian College, of the nationally agreed assessment standards. This provided the impetus for the English faculty to reconstruct the assessment criteria for each piece of assessed work. The development of the consequent rubrics has enabled
teachers to provide students with explicit information about the task demands (assessment as learning) at the very outset of the task. They can also be used effectively by students and teachers throughout the process (as students self assess their work against the criteria) and in their final assessment of learning. Last year, teachers identified some elements of the rubrics requiring further refinement and these will be implemented throughout 2011.
DIPL Spelling Program One of the many advantages of a Prep – 12 College is the opportunity to establish a consistent approach to learning across the year levels. In response to the identification of a need in the spelling program, 2010 saw the roll out of a new course in Years Prep. to 6 for the teaching of spelling and language conventions. This DIPL program involves a very explicit approach to teaching spelling strategies and rules providing students with the skills and understanding to translate their ability to spell familiar words into being able to spell unfamiliar words. To build on student understanding, the key components of this spelling program have been translated into specific and explicit teaching of spelling at Years 7, 8 and 9. These programs have commenced this year.
Individual Reading and Comprehension
Mrs Nott works with students in her Year 9 English class 10
In the same manner, a consistent approach to the teaching of reading comprehension has commenced. A series of new resources will enable teachers across Middle School years to run a series of short diagnostic tests to discern students’ relative strengths and weaknesses across twelve identified elements of reading comprehension. Targeted
Careers in Aviation and explicit teaching to meet the individual comprehension needs of each student will be implemented based on the test results of each student.
Recognition of Skills in English As Director of English I have seen many students in our College who have the potential to excel both in and out of the College, in activities associated with English. Over the years we have had students perform successfully in Interschool Debating, Legacy Public Speaking, Lions Youth of the Year Awards, Writing competitions etc. It is an important goal of the English faculty going into the future, that we raise the profile of these students and the significant skills they have. To this end, 2011 will see the College hold its own public speaking and writing competitions, encourage participation in school public speaking clubs and coach students, individually and in groups, toward performance at a higher level. We will celebrate their efforts and nurture a culture that promotes high achievement in English and its many facets.
Marion Nott Director of English
Seniors at Avalon Airport On Friday 4th March, nine Middle and Senior school students were able to attend the Student Information Day at the Australian International Airshow at Avalon Airport. The day consisted of presentations given by a variety of speakers involved in the industry. An industry overview and future forecast was given by the Defence Materials Organisation, followed by an apprenticeship overview from Qantas. A speaker from the Defence Science and Technology Organisation spoke about the type of work done by scientists,
The 2011 College Production The Christian College production of Seussical The Musical will take to the stage in the Playhouse Theatre at Geelong Performing Arts Centre on 6 May and 7 May 2011. Tickets will be on sale through the Senior Music Department and Reception at the Highton Middle School Campus from Monday 21 March. ‘Seussical The Musical’ incorporates elements from as many as fifteen Dr Seuss books. Many of his best loved and familiar characters such as Cat in the Hat, bring to light the power of the imagination. In the process of visiting such places as the ‘Jungle of Nool’ and “McElligott’s Pool’ some will fall in love, have wonderful adventures and some will save the world. Mrs Mandy Calderwood (Head of Drama and production director) and the entire production staff have been really excited by the energy and talent displayed at recent rehearsals. The 80 strong
cast will be accompanied by a 30 piece College orchestra featuring our talented musicians. Christian College students involved in the production range from Year 5 to Year 12 from Bellarine, Highton and Senior campuses. There will be three performances only of this delightful show. Please note the dates in your diary NOW! Friday evening 6 May at 7.30pm Saturday matinee 7 May at 12.30pm Saturday evening 7 May at 5.00pm College families are invited to assist the production with set building, sewing of costumes, promotion through the community and advertising local businesses in the program. Please contact Mrs Fiona Gardner, Producer on 0417542375 or email f.gardner@ccg.vic.edu.au if you are able to assist. 11
engineers and technical trades people. A Virgin Blue captain spoke about the commercial aviation industry and a member of the Defence Force spoke about recruitment into the Forces. The key note speaker was Matt Hall who has had a wealth of experience flying with the Defence Force as well as being a former Red Bull pilot. The students were also able to discover a wealth of information at the Aerospace and Defence exhibits.
Mrs Dianne Swann, Careers Advisor
Christian College focus on
East Timor
In 2010 much happened at Uma Maun Alin, Viqueque, and in Dili, in terms of what has been achieved by the staff at the Friendship House and by the people who visit them in Timor Leste. In February, Uma Maun Alin opened the kindergarten with Otto Ferreira being employed as the teacher. Otto began his service with Christian College Geelong in 2009 when we sent him to Dili to undertake an English course. The Timorese are very committed to learning English in order to improve their opportunities and to further their study. Between 35 and 45 children attend kindergarten, depending on whether the parents can get there because of the weather. Otto and his 3 volunteers are all keen and happy to help out with the children, teaching them reading, playing music and dancing. It is just so great to see. Also, it was great to be able to bring some of the Kindergarten staff to Geelong this term for more training at our Williams House Kindergarten. Jose Soares, the Coordinator of Uma Maun Alin, has been with Christian College as a volunteer ever since we started up the house in 2004. This young man is doing a fantastic job making co-ordinating local activities at the Friendship House. Aze (his nick name,) also came to Geelong early in 2011 to take an advanced English course.
Asaul Soares (affectionately known as Akay) is our resident Viqueque ‘computer whizz’ and he is the second in charge of Uma Maun Alin. Akay conducts computer classes at the Friendship House three nights a week. (Electricity is only on from 6pm-6am each day). The June/July Term holidays in 2010 saw 14 school associated personnel visit Viqueque - eight Year 12 students, Daryl and Debbie Riddle, Chris Maddock, Dr. Deb Harley, Nurse Jenny Hicks and myself. This trip saw the students interacting with the local children, playing basketball, soccer and even a AFL football. They joined in helping the teachers at the kinder and also singing and playing the guitar for them and nightly singing in front of the accommodation house with all the local kids joining in. I feel sure our students will not forget this trip for a long time. The trip coincided with the official opening of the school that was built with donations from the Christian College community in the village of Kraras. This is a four class room building with a teacher’s room at one end. This was a very moving day as this village has experienced horrific retribution for helping freedom fighters in the fight for independence. The school was built because in the wet season the children cannot get out of
Our Year 12 students celebrate the opening of the Kraras School with local students 12
the village to attend their normal school. Also the population has grown so much that the children needed extra classrooms in Kraras. Dr Deb and Nurse Jenny were kept busy visiting the hospital and immunisation clinic and attending to the wounds of the local children after their soccer matches. Before the trip the Year 12 students from Christian College fundraised so that they could buy supplies for the nurses at the Viqueque hospital, as well as the clinic. They provided a number of nurse’s equipment pouches, which came with scissors, watch and other nursing tools. They also supplied some monitors to measure blood pressure. The students did a great job raising the money for this project and should be congratulated for their initiative. The Christian College community would be very pleased with the way these students presented themselves and represented the school. Whilst on an extended visit to Viqueque, Science teacher Deb Singleton and Jocelyn McMillan delivered exercise books to schools throughout the region. Deb. has also set up a library in the corner of the main room at the Friendship House, and it is being used by teachers and students from many local schools. 2010 was certainly a busy year for Uma Maun Alin and all the people who help to run it. All the money that people donate through salary sacrificing at Christian College, and all the money that is raised through the sale of the Timor calendar, goes to help keep the Friendship House running. This money provides wages for the four employees and associated resources and supplies for the programs at the House. Also, the Kraras School was built with this money. Thank you to all who have contributed.
Colin Pearson Chairperson, Christian College Viqueque Friendship Committee