In Focus - March 2012

IN FOCUS
March 2012
Links to articles
New Sports and Aquatic Centre - 6 :.
Congratulations Class of 2011 - 9 :.
Focus on East Timor - 16 :.
in defining what a great school looks like, I
challenge myself to think about the following
presuppositions. I believe great schools focus
on these key factors.
Staff professional learning is enhanced through discussion groups
Ours is a Christian School that strives
educational personnel, support staff and
structures and procedures to assist students,
to support our students in character
parents to cooperatively and collaboratively
development and educational outcomes. We
enjoy a cohesive, shared understanding of
strive to encourage each of our students to
their contribution to the education process.
develop a personal faith in Jesus Christ and to
Programs are reviewed and
assessed for improvement.
offers learning opportunities and pastoral
care, our students are encouraged to achieve
their best. In a framework of continuous
improvement, clear and explicit goals for
students are understood and supported by
In recent years our College has undergone
and benefitted from reviews of programs at
all levels including Senior, Middle and Junior
School as well as the program at ‘Back Creek’
farm. New initiatives have been successfully
students, teacher and parents.
introduced and students are demonstrating
introduction of the Federal government’s
Believing in and supporting all
students to learn.
many cases the information used as part of
My Schools website, the introduction and
Our College aims to provide the right learning
data, feedback from students, members of
effort to prepare for and introduce a national
environment that encourages and supports all
staff and our parent body. A shared input into
curriculum and the Gonski review of funding
students to learn. We work hard to create an
this process is invaluable.
of schools, to name a few. Interestingly, my
environment where students feel safe, valued
direct conversations with stakeholders in our
and engaged in the learning process, so as to
community, including colleagues from other
make the most of every opportunity through
Teaching staff play a significant
role in student success.
schools, often specifically involve asking
the programs, facilities, resources and services
The selection and recruitment of teaching
questions about the qualities of a great school.
available to them. This is best achieved in a
staff and a commitment to supporting each
shared culture of learning where everyone sees
one in their professional growth has been a
themselves as learners - students, members of
focus of our recent emphasis on teaching
staff and parents included.
and learning.
discussion and debate surrounding
schools and education in our country - The
Factors to consider.
In considering the elements that are factors
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great school is prepared to remove barriers
or improve programs in order to create
lives. Together with a balanced education that
What makes a great school?
There is no such thing as a perfect school. A
A shared understanding about the
ethos and culture of the school.
understand the purpose that God has for their
Over recent years there has been much
Barriers are Identified and
addressed.
positive outcomes as a result of these. In
the reviews has involved student learning
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Our teaching staff are involved in a range of
and a Christian College smart phone App
For the staff to work collectively and
professional learning teams to collaboratively
will be introduced soon and will enable us
collaboratively toward offering the very best
consider initiatives and practice that
to keep the entire College community up
educational opportunities and feedback
challenges and improves their effectiveness
to date with events, celebrations and news
possible, through reflecting upon their
in classrooms. The introduction of a
concerning the College program.
practice and learning from their colleagues
Effective communication through this
and best practice initiatives.
method will increase and enhance the
For parents to encourage and support
feedback provided to students and
students in their learning as well as to be
families regarding the learning undertaken
accountable for their efforts and contributions
throughout the College as well as details on
by supporting the teaching staff in their efforts
individual students.
to deliver the program.
delivery of learning for our students.
Our shared aim.
We have much to be thankful for at Christian
Effective communication.
This year I have challenged the staff in all
The effort to use technology to improve
areas of the College to focus upon and to
reflective Teacher Performance Management
program will allow our teachers to work
with colleagues in order to obtain feedback
that will support and encourage their career
development and practice. The desired
outcome is ongoing, high quality, state of
the art practical experiences to enhance the
communication with students and assist
strive for excellence - to not only focus on the
them with their daily organisation and also
end result being excellent, but also to engage
with families through the newly developed
in a process of giving ones best effort to
portal, are each aimed to provide effective
continuing to improve.
and more efficient methods of sharing
In this way I ask our entire community to
information.
support and encourage each other in this goal.
Change of this nature is not without
For students to challenge themselves
challenges; however over time through
reviewing and improving these elements
of our College communication links using
technology, we will see considerable benefits
in the months and years ahead.
The new College website, a Facebook page
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and take responsibility to give their very best
effort to take up the opportunities provided
to them by listening to their teachers,
submitting their best work at all times and
within the time expected and to use the
feedback offered to improve their learning.
College. God has blessed us with a clear
focus on love and a great example to follow
in His son Jesus. Our daily living, if based on
His example and desire to make the world a
Senior staff and students recognizing student leadership
better place, gives us a tremendous purpose.
We benefit as a result of the provision of
great students, the most wonderful learning
environment, excellent programs and facilities
for teaching and learning, a professional and
dedicated teaching and support staff and a
positive and supportive relationship between
the College and our families.
This to me describes a great school, one that
continually strives for excellence.
Glen McKeeman, Principal.
Class group learning in action at Bellarine Campus
Campus Life
The experience of campus life is many and
varied whether it be in the classroom, the
gym, the pool, the sporting field, the camp,
the farm or on excursion. However there
are two common pursuits we have for 2012 Excellence and the Sharing of Love.
The excellence we seek is not a destination
but a journey. It is the desire to see each
student improve and grow moment by
moment, day by day. Teachers not only
Picnic in the courtyard for Year 7 families and teachers
want this experience for their students but
are passionate themselves to share in the
New Sports and Aquatic Centre
Recently the opportunity for the Middle
School community to come together in our
Sports and Aquatic Centre was a dream come
earlier in the day by observing our
basketball court quickly transformed into a
community hall by a group of dedicated staff
and able students.
The commonality was the picnic tea, followed
attainment of true excellence. We too want to
by Chapel and finally the classroom to give
improve and grow.
the families a taste of a day in the life of their
The love we seek to share is not love as the
children. The friendship experienced over the
world knows it but love as God intends it to
picnic was encouraging and the time in the
be. It is best defined by Paul in his letter to
Chapel with our Chaplain, Mr Jason Morrison,
unpacking our desire for students to
the church at Corinth:
‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it
true. Our Leaders’ Induction Service saw 620
This time together allowed us to praise God
students joined by over 150 parents and staff
for His provision and celebrate the gifts He
to dedicate our student leaders, in service, to
has given to our children.
their school and to God.
Welcome Evenings
The venue looked and sounded wonderful
Our Years 5/6 and Year 7 Welcome Evenings
teachers listening and doing activities whilst
and our guest speaker Miss Georgina Faulkner
this year brought freshness and excitement
the Year 7 families not only spent time in the
spoke to the audience about the true essence
to the experience. Under the direction of the
Homeroom but also visited other classes. The
of servant leadership and the ability of young
coordinators Mr Peter Fossey and Miss Kerrie
bell was rung to signal the end of one class
people to make a real difference in their
Reid each evening had common threads yet
and the start of the next. A true experience of
Wayne Hines
world. This had already been evidenced
each was programmed differently.
a student’s life at school was gained by all.
Head of Middle School, Highton
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experience excellence in 2012, was inspiring.
The variation occurred in the classroom
where the Year 5/6 families spent their time in
their child’s classroom with their Homeroom
does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is
not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps
no record of wrongs. Love does not delight
in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always
protects, always trusts, always hopes, always
perseveres. Love never fails’.
1 Corinthians 13: 4-8
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Starting 2012 at the Farm
The new vegetable gardens are in full
production, particularly potatoes
“Garden Cooking” is going really well. The
Year 9 Rural 1 students have presented
complete meals 90% from our own sources
The hot house tomatoes are flourishing and
Gathering wood for the boiler
look like the ‘Day of the Triffids’
Rural 2 girls getting used to the working the herd
The main car park has been edged with
sleepers and shrubs to make a hedge. Elm
trees are spaced along the car park
The front gardens are divided into sections
Rural Experience Overview
The purpose of the Farm is to provide year
9 students with an enhanced educational
experience through a residential rural
programme where they are immersed into a
working farm (primarily a commercial dairy),
The school part of the Rural Programme
currently has 2 full-time and 9 casual /
sessional staff.
Corea, Daisy, Hebes, Lavender, Diosma
Green, Diosma Yellow, Grevillea, Boronia,
Leucodendron, Proteas, Ti Tree etc.
The bridge over the back of the dam is
complete and now in use.
whilst living with their peers - away from most
of the comforts and conveniences of home.
The farm part of the Rural Programme
This new environment is a wonderful
currently has 2 full-time and 3 casual staff.
platform for children to discover things about
•
98 hectares owned + 405 hectares leased
themselves, taking responsibility, the role
renovation of the ‘Gatehouse’
•
285 cows being milked twice daily
Mr Earl Moore has been appointed as our
does not just appear on supermarket shelves,
•
271 sheep
Teaching and Learning Operations Manager.
experiential learning of tolerance for those
•
54 beef cattle and calves
to develop leadership potential, and using
•
100 calves
initiative in problem-solving.
•
200 hens
northern end of the cabins.
204 students participated in the Programme
•
110 eggs collected, washed and sold daily
Russell Barter, Director of ‘Back Creek’
living and working with them, opportunities
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in 2011 (142 from Highton, 62 from Bellarine)
The Farming Operations
of primary production in the food chain - it
Apples, apples and more apples!
which the students look after. Plants include
‘Larry ‘ and ‘Garry ‘, our two goats are great for
keeping the fence lines clean.
Much new work has been done on the
His work is focused on the homestead, its
organisation and systems.
New steps have been installed on the
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
OPENING CEREMONY
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2
3
The expansive new sports facilities at the Christian College Middle
School in Burdekin Road, Highton was officially opened by Darren
Cheeseman, MP and James Shirley, Chairman of Christian College
Board on Friday 9 March. The new Sports Centre includes a
gymnasium with two basketball courts, a circuit training room and
sports administration areas. It will also be used as an auditorium for
College assemblies and special events.
1. Year 8 Physical Education classes include swim training in the Aquatic Centre
2. Two Indoor Cricket matches can take place at once in the spacious
new gymnasium
3. The Head of Middle School and the Board Chairman listen to
the response from Sally Ramsay, a Middle School parent at the
Opening Ceremony
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christiancollege.vic.edu.au
During the Opening Ceremony, a plaque was
unveiled acknowledging the contribution
of the Australian Government. College CEO
Daryl Riddle OAM stated that the long-term
‘dream’ of the College Board had only been
Prayer of Dedication
At the Opening Ceremony the following
prayer was offered by Salvation Army Board
Representative, Captain David Collinson
made possible with financial assistance
Dear God,
from the Federal Government’s Building
We thank you for Christian College Geelong - for
the Education Revolution initiative. He
the staff and students you have placed here and
also acknowledged the pivotal role of the
for the diversity of people that come through
architect and Project manager, Paul Brewster.
their doors every day.
Mr Frank Costa OAM congratulated the
We thank you for the gift of sport and the
College Board for its vision and gave an
abilities you have given us to run, play, swim
inspirational message to the students
and compete.
encouraging them to develop character as
We ask now your blessing on this Sports and
well as their skills.
Aquatic centre, praying for the work that will be
Aquatic Centre Refurbishment
done here and the care, support and education
In addition, the original St. Augustine’s
Orphanage swimming pools have now been
completely refurbished, heated and enclosed
as part of the new Sports and Aquatic Centre.
2
that will be offered in Your name.
May this building be a blessing to the
community here at Christian College and to the
City of Geelong.
Several of the St Augustine’s Old Boys took part
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
in the unveiling of a plaque commemorating
Amen.
the work of the boys and Christian Brothers in
1. The Senior Wind Symphony provided musical
the excavation of the pools in 1939.
support at the Opening Ceremony
The pools will now be used for swim
2. Darren Cheeseman MP, Daryl Riddle CEO
instruction throughout the year by Christian
of Christian College, St. Augustine’s ‘Old
College classes from Junior, Middle and Senior
Boy’Charlie Walker and the College Chairman,
School as well as by community groups.
James Shirley in the new Aquatic Centre
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christiancollege.vic.edu.au
standards, ideals and integrity of this my school
- Christian College.
I will strive to show understanding, compassion
and respect in my dealings with students and
staff. I will endeavour to be fair and consistent in the
decisions I make, whilst being committed to the
high ideals of my College motto – ‘Seek ye first
The Senior Prefects give their Oath of Commitment during the
The 2012 Senior School Captains and Vice Captains are congratu-
Investiture
lated by the Head of Senior School and the Principal
what you believe in.
A good leader has vision: This means that
a good leader can see what he or she is
On February 14th the Senior School held its
effective in serving those they are working for
working towards, has an end result in mind
Prefect Investiture Ceremony. While there
if they love them. Without love it will be just
and always has a plan of action.
were twenty four of our Year 12’s who were
mindless work, but if you love others you will
invested into their new roles, we celebrated
be considerate of their wants and needs and
the qualities of leadership which we are all
this will make your service more meaningful.
able to display. I would like to outline some of
the qualities of being a leader, as these allow
us each to improve and to be our best self,
and for us to help others become their best
A good leader has a good attitude: Your
attitude will not only determine your personal
success but it will determine how successfully
Every one of our young people at Senior
School is able to work on these outlined
attributes and to be a leader to those around
A good leader is responsible: We all have to
he or she does. Doing your part is good
Prefect in our community and we celebrate
be responsible for our own actions and to be
but doing it with a good attitude and with
with those who were successful in becoming
aware of the impact that those actions may
enthusiasm is even better.
one. The oath that each of these young
negative.
for: No one wants to follow someone who
is unsure or wavering. Even if those you are
Sam Liistro and Madelaine Blomfield . We are
delighted that they have accepted these roles
and we pray for God’s hand on them for the
year ahead.
This prayer, below, which we prayed for our
School Captains is just as appropriate for all
Father, thank you for these young men and
year indicated their willingness to become a
is always a consequence, whether positive or
Ben McCarthy and our School Vice Captains
Senior Prefects 2012
have a positive attitude about everything
A good leader knows what he or she stands
2012 School Captains Alicia McNamara and
our young people on the Senior campus.
We are grateful to all the Year 12’s who last
have on others. When we make a choice there
I would like to particularly congratulate our
them.
you can lead others. A truly good leader will
as well.
the Kingdom of God’
women - for the people they are and for whom
they will become. As Your word declares, we
ask wisdom for them in their roles knowing
that you will give generously. Lord grant them
an increased creativity – we are made in your
people made at the Investiture Service is set
image and you are a Creator-so guide them in
out below. As a community we are grateful
new ways of thinking, new ways of problem
that they have made such a promise.
solving and new ideas for 2012.
A good leader loves those whom he or
leading do not agree with the beliefs you
‘With God’s help, I wholeheartedly accept the
Susan Strong
she serves: A leader will be much more
have, they will still follow you if you know
responsibilities associated with upholding the
Head of Senior School
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Amen.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
The 2011 Year 12 Graduates of our College have done particularly well in their VCE studies. We would like to share some
insights and advice from a few of the Year 12 students who did particularly well last year.
REBEKAH HINES:
2011 DUX OF CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
Rebekah studied Group Music, Further Mathematics,
Chemistry, Music Investigation, English and
Mathematical Methods.
She believes she did well with her ATAR because she had
sufficient motivation toward what she wanted to do in
the future. She made sure that she never stressed herself
out, by remembering that her life would continue even
if she did not reach her goal. This approach released a
JACOB PETKOVIC
ANDREW PEEL
Jacob studied English,
In Year 12, Andrew studied
Drama, Indonesian,
English, Accounting, Physics,
Japanese and Literature in
Japanese and Mathematical
Year 12.
Methods.
He says that having a clear
He believes that he did well
goal in mind throughout
because he continually
Year 12 gave him the
reviewed previously studied
motivation, enthusiasm and
topics throughout the
determination to attain his
year so that he did not
lot of potential pressure.
desired ATAR. Additionally, by choosing subjects he
have to relearn everything when it came time for the
This year she plans to study a Bachelor of Science at
enjoyed, the workload and homework were much more
examinations.
Melbourne University whilst living at St. Hilda’s College.
manageable.
This year Andrew will begin studying Medicine at
Various music groups and church/Christian unions
In 2012 Jacob will study Professional Communications
Adelaide University and his future plans include
will also fill in her hobbies and keep up her life outside
at RMIT city campus. As a part of this degree he will be
being a doctor and then deciding upon his area of
study.
able to complete studies in a range of areas including
specialisation.
After two years of the Bachelor of Science, Rebekah can
journalism, public relations, languages and Asian
apply to start her Doctor of Veterinary Science course a
studies.
year early, thanks to her guaranteed ATAR entry. So, in
After completing his studies, Jacob hopes to pursue a
the future she will be a vet, hopefully working in a rural
career in the broadcast journalism industry and perhaps
area, but maybe working with some wild animals or in a
work as a TV reporter.
zoo ultimately.
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christiancollege.vic.edu.au
RIANNI LANCASTER
JASON ALLSOPP
CHLOE LILKENDY Jason’s studies for Year 12
Chloe studied English,
were Chemistry, Biology,
Psychology, Studio Arts, Maths
English, Maths Methods,
Methods, Specialist Maths and
Rianni attributes her fine results to hard work and dedication.
Physics, Further Maths
Further Maths in Year 12
She says: “There is only one way to do well and that is to study,
Success came to Jason
Chloe feels that she did well
though, you have to study smart by choosing what works
because of a number of
in her ATAR because Effort
best for you. For example, I never wrote notes; rote rehearsal
factors. Firstly, he found
> Natural Talent. She put in
was just a waste of time for me. Instead I gave meaning to the
his goal, of working in the
the ‘hard yards’ all through
information by using mnemonic devices (memory enhancers)
medical profession and thus
Year 11 and during the year
In Year 12 Rianni studied English, Further Maths, Japanese,
Chemistry, Psychology
and creating pictures at times (weird I know!) It is important
to not underestimate the importance of SACs as well; I looked
at them as exam. preparation and made sure I knew basically
everything regarding that topic and what I didn’t know I would
concept properly as she was learning it.
began work then, so that there was barely anything
She deeply involved herself in class discussion and was not
new in Year 12. This meant that when he got to Year 12
shy to ask questions or get clarifications.
he had completed almost all his coursework, and could
She says ‘If you start trying and truly understanding early on,
on before the SACS, from the text books, study aids etc.
grasp concepts better and ask more complex questions.
Year 12 becomes easier and when exams come along you
I found it so much easier to learn concepts well the first time,
Jason’s hints to others include:
revision and I could get into practice exams as soon as I could.
All these students are
It is also important to have balance; I made time to still do
positive about the future
exercise each day, have a couple of jobs, go out on weekends
and expressed their thanks
and things like that, but just prioritise; it’s not possible to do
to Christian College for
these all the time!
start to their chosen career.
He decided all this towards the end of Year 10 and
in Year 12. Chloe made sure that she understood each
ask my teachers. I also did every question I could get my hands
so that when exams came around, my preparation just felt like
giving them a wonderful
he looked towards an ATAR of 99.95
Leading up to the exams I took at least a month off work, and
didn’t go out and things like that as I found studying more
Summarising his own notes and speaking everything as
he wrote.
Bachelor of Science, particularly focusing on Mathematics
and Psychology. She wants to relax a little within her
studies however, and hopefully take on some extra
Teaching others helped to show where he lacked in his
curricular activities, embracing her passions for dance and
own understanding.
photography.
Having a balanced life (some social activities, plenty of
Chloe is still unsure of what she wants to be when she
sleep and regular exercise included)
grows up, but she is fine with that. She would be interested
This year Jason will study Dentistry at La Trobe
out of it what you put in. It’s easy to start the year motivated
University in Bendigo. His future plans include some
then slacken off, but persist and it will all be worth it in the
aspect of dentistry and travel.
This year she is studying Law/ Science, which she believes will
This year Chloe is enrolled at Monash University to study a
Not leaving things to the last minute.
important at these times. Just find what works for you! You get
end. Still remember to enjoy it!
are not in a rush to attempt to understand the impossible.’
in continuing her studies perhaps Honours, Masters and
maybe a PHd.
Chloe found it hard to choose between creativity and
academia when deciding on a university course, so she
hopes that she can continue to embrace art and hopefully
find a career that encompasses both aspects.
‘keep her on her toes’.
Page 10 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Education continues to be a
strong focus
already experimenting with ‘fancy stitching’ to
Christian College Geelong began visiting
It is fantastic to see the adoption of new
Viqueque in 2004. That year, a work-party
technology and ideas for the improvement of
ups, playdough, finger-painting, gardening
established a community Friendship House
lives in the community and in the classrooms.
and water play, just to name a few of the new
called Uma Maun Alin. In 2005, a second group
With the advent of 24 hour per day electricity
activities at the kindergarten.
renovated another building in Viqueque, which
in Viqueque in 2012, even more goals will
now provides accommodation for visiting
be met. This will positively impact the ICT
groups and individuals. Many friendship trips
timetable which will allow more students to
have ensued.
learn ICT skills on the laptops. The sewing
The community of Viqueque has a formal
friendship relationship with Geelong. In
2010 a Memorandum of Understanding was
Christian College teacher, Ms Singleton joins in the sewing class
at the Friendship House at Viqueque
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embroider table cloths and napery.
ladies’ use of the new sewing machines will
not be restricted to starting the generator or
coming to work when the power is on.
Venancia is the third teacher and she will be
following a similar intensive training program
of experience at Williams House in Term 2 this
year. A big ‘thank you’ to the dedicated staff
at our Williams House Kindergarten. They are
fantastic kinder teachers and the children at
the Friendship House Kindergarten are lucky
renewed and signed between the Mayor of
It is hoped that the support for these programs
the City of Greater Geelong and the District
will continue strongly into the future.
Administrator of Viqueque.
The Friendship House, supported by Christian
Kindergarten at the Friendship
House
College Geelong, hosts a range of important
Kindergarten teachers from Viqueque,
community-based activities. It currently
Nurlinda and Lucia, both taught at Christian
accommodates a registered kindergarten
College’s Kindergarten, Surfside Kindergarten
in the mornings and English classes for
and Kardinia Child Minding Centre, as part of
primary school students some afternoons.
a comprehensive 2-3 month training program
The ICT classes have become increasingly
in Geelong in 2011. Their experience provided
popular since another batch of laptops has
them with new skills and ideas, which they
These trips offer Geelong students the
been installed at Uma Maun Alin. A women’s
immediately put into practice upon their
opportunity to experience village life in
sewing group has started a business there
return, transforming the Kindergarten
Viqueque, and make their own contribution
too. These skilled ladies make and sell school
in Uma Maun Alin , the Christian College
to the ongoing efforts of Christian College;
uniforms. With the addition of more ‘modern’
Friendship House. They have implemented
and to improve the living standards and
electric sewing machines in 2011, they are
activities such as a home/play corner, dress
educational opportunities within Viqueque,
to benefit benefit from their experience.
Recent trips…
In 2010 and 2011, Senior students from
Christian College Geelong recommenced
regular trips to East Timor. When these
students visited the communities of Viqueque
and Kraras, they continued to strengthen the
existing bonds between the school and the
communities.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Kinder in action at the Friendship House
Kraras and Raitahu. The expeditions also
SMA Calixa is in desperate need of renovation,
moved by the personal stories of torture and
serve to develop relationships between these
but must await government and education
survival. Rich, authentic learning experiences
villages and the Greater Geelong community.
department discretion as to when and where
such as these convey a powerful message,
Raitahu School
funding is granted. SMA Septembru 4 School
augmenting the school’s Humanities
Last year, the Christian College Senior
Christmas period. Despite difficult physical
Prefects tabled a proposal to the Christian
surroundings, learning continues with very
College community and set a challenge for
little in the way of material resources and
staff and students to raise funds for a new
aides, even if it is under the trees while the
Friendship School, 15 km from the village
roof is dismantled and re-constructed.
of Viqueque. It was an initiative developed
in consultation between Christian College
Geelong and the village elders, teachers
and parents of Raitahu. Christian College is
thrilled to announce that a three room school,
including a staff room, is well on the way to
completion. It will be formally opened when
the 2012 Prefects visit in June/July. We would
Senior students and staff visited in 2011
like to take this opportunity to thank our
group of teachers from Viqueque visited
Geelong on a study trip. They toured their
Friendship Schools Group buddy schools and
enjoyed collegiality with staff and students.
It is difficult for most families to support
A dedicated band of Christian College staff
their children through tertiary studies, so
are once again visiting Viqueque in the Easter
during 2011, Christian College inaugurated
holidays this year, to maintain the buildings,
support for a young man and a young woman
and experience the friendship and humble
from each of their buddy schools to go to
surroundings offered by our mates and
university in Dili. Typically, courses run for
colleagues over there.
three years. It is anticipated that new students
will be supported in successive years. The
2012 Calendars
Some copies of the East Timor Calendars are
including nursing, teaching and chemistry.
still available from Reception at each Campus.
At the completion of their studies they hope
The original Raitahu primary school is typical
Parents are warmly encouraged to take a
to return to Viqueque to make positive
of remote, rural schools in Timor Leste. It
contributions to their community, through
calendar home and read more about our East
is constructed of palm poles, a palm leaf
education and health.
thatched roof and has mostly open ‘walls’.
Christian College Staff and
Students
to make a gold coin donation, every little bit
In June 2011, Jill Jolliffe (author of Balibo) and
Christian College in Viqueque.
Forty to sixty primary school students attend
this single room school, taught by three
teachers, including the Principal.
Scholarships
Page 12 :.
program. Then in November, a representative
students are studying a variety of courses
many supporters and look forward to your
continuing support.
The Principal with the students of Raitahu School
received new trusses and a roof over the 2011
her Timorese friends set up a photographic
and video exhibition, The Living Memory
Timorese friends. At this stage of the year,
the calendars are free, but if you would like
helps support the people and projects run by
Deb. Singleton
Two senior schools in Viqueque are ‘buddied’
Project, at the Christian College Chapel at
Secretary, Christian College East Timor
with two of the Christian College campuses.
Middle School, Highton. Many students were
Association
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Proud parents congratulate the 2012 Bellarine School Captains
Welcome to 2012
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 2012. 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
The Chaplain’s message at the Welcome
Evening
communicate with staff via the Diary and may
involved, even as your child moves into
wish to follow up with a phone call or email
the middle and senior years of schooling.
as required. The Diary should also provide an
Coaching a team, assisting on excursions or
we encourage you to introduce yourself
overview of student progress in academics,
camps, offering to help on a special activity
to your child’s Homeroom teacher and/or
attitude and campus based events, ensuring
day, volunteering with fundraising initiatives
the specialist staff to begin what will be an
parents remain well informed.
or in the Barn are just a few of the ways you
important partnership as we share in the
Support at home can help your
child succeed!
can remain involved and connected with
responsibility of ‘educating’ your child. We
see this as a reciprocal relationship that can
be fostered between home and the school.
A recent study at the Queensland University
In order to bring about the best outcomes
of Technology (QUT) found that parents who
for your child, we need to be supportive of
remain engaged with schools throughout
each other’s roles as parents and teachers.
their child’s education are more likely to
Together we can achieve some great things!
have children who complete the high school
I missed, I am sure we will have opportunities
The College Diary is an important tool
to catch up as the year unfolds.
in this process and forms the basis for
Parent/Teacher Partnership
Staff and families meet informally in Term 1 at the Bellarine Campus
communication between parents and
teaching staff. It is important that the Diary
years and also go on to further study. This
study found that there is a very high level of
parental involvement in the early years of
schooling; however this engagement starts to
decrease as secondary studies commence.
your school and child’s education. The QUT
study also reported that parents helping with
homework, discussing experiences at school
and what is being learned lets children know
that their parents are interested, concerned
and place a high value on education.
Ways parents can help their
children learn
1. A positive start to the day.
Assist your child with routine and
organising the night before in readiness
Throughout the year there are many
be viewed and signed each night for Junior
opportunities for you as parents to become
School students and each week for Middle
My encouragement to all parents is to take
for the next day. This will prevent the rush
involved in the life of the College. Further,
School students. Parents are encouraged to
advantage of the many ways you can remain
and stress of not being able to locate
Page 13 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
uniform items, books and notices etc.
in the morning. Having an appropriate
breakfast will also ensure your child has
the appropriate ‘fuel’ for the day. A positive,
happy start is a great foundation for a new
day at school.
4. Foster a love of learning.
As a parent you can enrich your child’s life
and love of learning by showing them your
own curiosity, respecting their questions,
asking questions and encouraging their
efforts. Filling your home with books to read,
2. Prepare for a positive reunion at the
books to look at and books that will assist in
end of the day.
answering questions can be invaluable.
Just as a positive start to the day is
5. Develop a learning partnership with
essential, so too is a happy conclusion
your child’s teacher.
to the school day. Putting aside some
Introduce yourself, assist in the classroom,
uninterrupted time, perhaps 10-20 minutes
maintain contact through the diary and take up
to listen to your children talk about their
the opportunity for Parent/Teacher Interviews.
day is really important. This lets them know
If you need to speak to the teacher in reference
that you are interested in their learning and
to a specific issue with your child, do it privately,
they will value your attention.
not in front of your child. Never criticise your
3. Remember it is your children’s
homework, not yours.
Discovering Highton Campus with Middle School students
child’s teacher in front of your child. Staff will be
SMA Negeri 2 Mataram Senior High School students and staff from our Twin School in Lombok,
only too happy to oblige and attempt to bring
Indonesia visited Geelong and were hosted by Christian College families from February 26 to 10
about a positive resolution. It is important that
March. This is the 16th year of the exchange that commenced in 1997.
Create a time and quiet place as a regular
your child sees a positive relationship between
homework space. It is valuable for parents
parent and teacher.
At the Welcome Ceremony on Wednesday 29 February in the Senior School Chapel, host students
to encourage editing and revision of work;
however it is really important to allow your
children to make mistakes and complete
their own work. This also allows teachers
to gauge if your child has understood
the material presented and encourages
our young people to take responsibility
for the quality of their work and develop
independent learning habits.
formally welcomed the SMA Negeri 2 students to Victoria and Christian College in Indonesian. A
As the new school year unfolds, we look
representative from the Consul General of Indonesia attended the special occasion.
forward to working with you (the parents)
The 20 students and 3 staff- including the Principal, Pak Hairuddin Ahmad visited the various
to assist your child as they learn and grow
to be the best that they can be. Together we
can achieve great things and encourage in
our young people a desire to be lifelong and
school campuses, Narana Creations and many other local tourist attractions with their host families.
In 2011 ten students from Christian College and their parents went on a 2 week study tour to Indonesia ( Bali and Lombok) and were hosted by SMA Negeri 2 Mataram and the local community in
passionate learners.
Lombok.
Scott Elliss, Head of Bellarine Campus
Visits by students and staff to and from Indonesia not only assist our students with their LOTE studies but firm friendships into the future are made.
Mrs Carol Milton-Garner, Director of L.O.T.E
Page 14 :.
The collaborative team have so far
undertaking this important process to benefit
surveyed staff on teaching and learning
the foundations of learning in Mathematics.
practices, collected data relating
to student learning and consulted
Mathematics specialists regarding best
practice and the latest research.
Teaching Workshops
At the start of this year a highly successful
program. This undertaking by a Professional
Learning Team under the leadership of Mr.
Page 15 :.
Schools.
Mathletics.
teachers from both campuses to specifically
learning tool that integrates home and school
explore teaching strategies and exercises
learning via the Internet. to enhance understanding for students in
www.mathletics.com.au
Students from Years 1 to 7 have been
utilising some of these in classrooms as well
provided with 24-hour access to Mathletics
as some of the resources that were shared.
and can access this by using a unique user
The next stage of the process will involve
engaging experienced consultant teacher
a review of the Junior School Mathematics
Mathematics to build upon in the Middle
Mathletics is a web based Mathematics
were extremely valuable and already staff are
Late in 2011 Christian College commenced
and deeper levels of understanding in
workshop was conducted for all Junior School
classroom lessons. These hands on sessions
Year 3 boys at Junior School engrossed in Mathletics
As a result students will experience richer
name and password. Prep. students will
commence using the program in Term 2.
coaches to work with our teaching staff
We recommend that parents spend time
to further implement and enhance the
becoming familiar with the program with
effectiveness of the teaching of Mathematics
your child so that you can gain the greatest
in each classroom.
understanding of how Mathletics works and
Curriculum Audit
how it will benefit your child
As we prepare for the introduction of
There may be times when your child’s
the Australian Curriculum we are also
classroom teacher will set specific
in the process of auditing our current
Mathletics tasks to be completed either at
curriculum and assessing new programs
school or at home. We ask you to encourage
Wayne Hines, as part of the College Strategic
to best meet the future needs of students
Educational plan, aimed to assess the
in our Junior Schools.
strengths and needs of the program covered
I am encouraged by and appreciative of the
from Prep to Year 4 in our Junior Schools at
efforts of Mr Hines and his team as well as the
Belmont and at the Bellarine Campus.
staff at the Junior Schools for embracing and
your child to use this invaluable program at
home each week.
Glen McKeeman
Principal.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Following on from the Year 7 Orientation Program, the Year 7 Camp is
set early in Term 1 with the similar aim of ‘providing opportunities for
students to form new friendships’.
Cave Hill Creek Camp is set in a pristine bush environment on the
outskirts of Beaufort. The camp program, designed and run by the
Homeroom teachers, has ‘adventure’ as its theme and is designed
to stretch students both physically and in their relationships. New
student and staff bonds are formed quickly as Homeroom groups
are mixed into Camp Platoons who then participate in challenging,
team orientated activities. Over the 3 days, students were involved
in activities such as raft construction, canoeing, low ropes course,
bushwalking and the Cave Hill Extreme Triathlon. These activities
pushed students, and some teachers, out of their comfort zone and,
in the process, naturally fostered relationships and engendered a
competitive team spirit.
It was great to see students encouraging each other and attempting
to try activities such as abseiling for the first time! Camp is also a
fantastic opportunity for staff and students to see each other in a
different light and get to know each other outside of the classroom
environment.
Kerrie Reid, Year 7 Co-ordinator, Middle School Highton
Page 16 :.
Christian College is developing a free smartphone app, compatible with both iPhone
and Android. The app will include all the latest news and events streamed from the
Christian College website. Other useful features will include a photo gallery, term
calendar, canteen and uniform price lists as well as campus contact details. Due to be
released over the next couple of weeks be sure to keep an eye out for it on our website:
www.christiancollege.vic.edu.au
At various times throughout the school year,
However, if any parents do NOT wish their son
photographs of students may be taken in class,
or daughter to be photographed for these
in sporting teams or when involved in a broad
purposes, named in College publications or on
range of learning activities. A selection of such
website reports, you are asked to notify your
photographs or videos may be used for College
Head of Campus in writing as soon as possible.
publicity and promotion including class displays,
Parents would be aware that we live in a visual
student presentations, media presentations or
society where images convey more than words.
for student teacher folios. Often this can be an
In addition, communications between our
effective way of acknowledging student and
College and families are increasingly being
College achievements.
Our staff are always careful to choose only
appropriate photographs to support our printed
publicity, promotional material, newletters
or news and events reports on the Christian
made by electronic means.
It has been decided that this year’s In Focus
Newsletters will be published on the Portal
and on the College website and NOT printed
in hard copy.
New staff for 2012 met at Senior School for their orientation sessions before the start of Term 1
College website www.christiancollege.vic.edu.au
Page 17 :.
christiancollege.vic.edu.au