in focus - 2013 term 4
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Links to articlesCover Story :. 10 Fundraising :. 6R U OK? Day :. 18
IN FOCUS
2 0 1 3N o v e m b e r
From the PrincipalEducation has many layers to the complex role it
plays in students’ lives. These are the academic,
social, emotional, physical and spiritual dimensions
that make us all the individual beings that God
created us to be. We are not all the same and we do
not all learn the same. We each have different talents
and abilities that equip us for the purpose God has
for us.
Schools and families play vital roles in shaping
our young people. As do their friends and the
experiences they have as they grow. To maximise the
time that our students spend at Christian College,
we have made a deliberate effort over the years
to present our educational program in a format
that offers a broad range of learning experiences
and opportunities. This includes thorough pastoral
and values framework to support our students in
developing their character.
I am delighted that we have been able to offer
a number of our Senior students the alternative
pathway to study both VET subjects and a Victorian
Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) commencing
in 2014.
Last term I had the privilege to accompany a Year 10
trip to the Central Desert of the Northern Territory
and spend time at the Alcoota School. It was here
that I reflected upon the very nature of education
that stems well beyond knowledge and skills. In my
discussion with students about their experiences,
I was reminded of the importance of having a fine
academic program supported by opportunities for
our students. Thus they are encouraged to discover
not only who they are, but also to think of others in
all situations.
At the commencement assemblies held at each
campus this term, I encouraged the students to focus
on the words that Matthew shared in his gospel;
Matthew 22: 36-40
36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the
Law?”
37 Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all
your heart and with all your soul and with all your
mind. 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as
yourself. 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these
two commandments.”
In addition, I wanted them to understand our call
to love God and others. As I consider the many
ways that our students support and contribute to
the numerous efforts undertaken to serve and love
others, I am extremely proud of the way that they
embrace the Christ-like efforts to reach out to others
and readily demonstrate fine Christian character.
New Motivator Format
This year the College is producing our College
Yearbook, ‘The Motivator’, in both magazine and
digital format. Earlier this term I had the opportunity
to preview the digital component that has captured
a number of activities and events at each of the
campuses. As I did, I could not help feeling a sense
of amazement at the range, depth and quality of the
many aspects of the College program. This highlights
our students in the positive and enthusiastic way
that they have embraced and contributed to the
learning opportunities that our College offers them.
I am extremely grateful to all of our students
and staff, both teaching and non-teaching and
families for contributing to such a memorable year.
With some of our major events, such as Year 12
Graduation, Presentation Evenings and other end of
year activities still to come, we certainly have many
reasons to praise God for His provision in 2013.
Glen McKeeman Principal.
Glen McKeeman with the Year 10 students in Central Australia.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 2 : .
Mahatma Gandhi once said ‘The best way to find yourself is
to lose yourself in the service of others’. In many ways this
statement is the opposite of what we are told by today’s western
culture. We are encouraged to think about ‘What is in it for us?’
When contemplating every action.
I love the farm’s ability to remove students from many of our
cultural influences and immerse them in community living.
For each rural group the dynamics of this looks different, but the
overriding ingredient for its success is the service of others and
the question, ‘What can I do or say that will help our community
function better?’
This is not only true for peer and teacher interactions but the
animals the students care for while at the farm. These animals are
dependent on the students’ service for their health and well-being.
The most recent Bellarine girls’ rural experience encapsulated this
service when caring for a cow that had calved but was left with
paralysis after the delivery. The girls fed, watered, helped lift the
cow and sheltered it throughout the day and night. This was
done without the chance of anything in return apart from the
recovery of the cow. Unfortunately the cow died, despite the
girls’ dedication.
The students’ connection to the farm, in some way, is a result of
the service invested during their time there. The culmination of
the rural experience has changed this year to include a student
presentation to parents on the final night. Listening to the
reflections of students as they present to their parents is always
a highlight as their relationship with the farm and their rural
community is strongly expressed.
To aid us in the continued development of the ‘Back Creek’
program, online surveys have been developed and will be
distributed to students before and after their farm experience.
This data will give us invaluable insight into the student learning
and development at the farm and give us the opportunity to
further enhance the program.
Kim Ali joined the ‘Back Creek’ staff team this year as the
‘Homestead Operations Teacher’. Kim’s background in
experiential learning is a real strength that she brings to
the farm along with her empathetic pastoral care that
Kim naturally uses when interacting with the students.
She has enhanced the use of garden produce into the
‘Cottage Cooking Experience’ and has developed the
cheese production from the farms milk. We are blessed
to have her working at ‘Back Creek’.
It is a great privilege to be leading ‘Back Creek’ and I
look forward to helping the students experience the
beauty of living and learning during their future visits
to the farm.
Earl MooreDirector ‘Back Creek’ Scotsburn
Back Creek’ Farm Experience
Year 9 Bellarine girls caring for the calf that was left with paralysis.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 3 : .
Now, more than ever before, it seems that bullying behavior amongst children and adults
is receiving wider attention from the media and the authorities. It is certainly not a new
phenomenon, but as a buzz word, often loosely used in the wider community, the definition of
what really constitutes bullying has been clouded (The Christian College Geelong diary draws
on the definition given by Farrington (1993) describing bullying as ‘the repeated intimidation,
over time, of a physical, verbal or psychological nature of a less powerful person by a more
powerful person or group of persons.’); moreover the nature of bullying is changing. Evidence
suggests that the incidence of overt bullying such as teasing or physical confrontation is falling,
however covert forms of bullying (facilitated by use of technologies), which are more difficult
for families and schools to detect, are on the increase. Cyber bullying, which can be covert, is
bullying behavior using digital technology. Examples of cyber bullying can include harassment
via mobile phone or social networking sites, setting up a defamatory personal website or
deliberately excluding someone from a social networking space. Cyber bullying can happen
any time in public or private and is sometimes only known to the victim and the bully.
As our students are preparing for their future in a world that is
increasingly driven by technology, it is essential that they learn
to embrace the benefits of technology but in an environment
where their exposure to cyberspace risks such as cyber bullying,
as well as other potential dangers such as identity theft, online
sexual predation and accessing or sending inappropriate
images and content is reduced. At Christian College, there is
already much proactive work that is being done to address the
issues of cyber safety, but in appreciation of the importance
of a comprehensive and strategic approach, the College has
recently registered to work through the process to become an
E-Smart School.
A world first, funded by the Victorian State Government and
co-ordinated through the Alannah and Madeline Foundation,
the E-Smart initiative utilises a whole school approach to
support student learning and make cybersafety a normal part
of their lives. It is designed to be a holistic approach connecting
cyber safety with overall wellbeing and focuses on fostering
a culture of respect and personal responsibility as well as
equipping students with the practical knowledge to ensure
their security in the use of cyber technology.
The E-Smart Schools Framework is organised into six domains,
each of which the school will address through a planning,
implementation and sustaining phase. These domains include:
1. Effective school organisation
2. School plans, policies and procedures
3. Respectful and caring school community
4. Effective teacher practices
5. An E-Smart curriculum
6. Partnerships with parents and the local community
In the first instance, a Committee with representation from
each of the College campuses, will be set up and a process of
auditing and prioritizing against each of the domains will be
conducted. This will create the basis for the Action Plan which
will be undertaken across the College in the coming months
and years to ensure that Christian College continues to provide
our students with an education and an environment that is
truly ‘cyber smart’.
Marion Nott
Head of Junior School, Belmont
Working Towards Being an E-Smart School
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 4 : .
On our Highton Middle School section of the School Website I make the
following statement:
‘Our aim is to constantly motivate students to learn through many and
varied teaching strategies and ‘hands-on’ practical experiences.
Great opportunities are given for students to participate in sporting teams,
musical ensembles, bands or choirs as well as dance groups and musical
productions. Such activities and competition develop students’ confidence
in their own abilities and self-esteem as well as the benefits of teamwork and
co-operation within a peer group.’
Add to this, the incredible opportunities in the Arts, Design and
Technology area and the encouragement for our students to grow
spiritually, and one sees great prospects available to all students.
I take every opportunity I have when speaking with students to remind
them of what it is they have available at their fingertips within Christian
College, as some just need a little encouragement to grasp hold of it.
We have just completed an amazing Middle School Talent Quest at the
end of Third Term which followed hot on the heels of the Royal South
Street Music competitions. Put this together with the Costa Hall Music
Evening, the Art Extravaganza and the multitude of sporting pursuits
available and one can see that there is plenty on offer for everyone.
In a world that competes at every level of existence, we believe we help
students to understand what it is to compete well, participate better
and be able to accept victory or defeat with grace and dignity.
It is not even the competition, as such, that matters the most but rather
the journey that occurs through competing. I just recently spoke
with the Middle School students and emphasised that the growth
they experience when joining a team or creating a piece of artwork or
learning an instrument is wonderful, but the real joy comes when your
work is experienced by an audience.
I have been present to hear the ‘oohs and ahhs’ that occur when
someone has accomplished an amazing sporting feat. I have been
elevated by music that has touched my soul and I have been challenged
and inspired by artwork that stimulates my visual senses.
The avenues to these accomplishments are enabled by great teaching
and learning opportunities. The accomplishments themselves also offer
the great joy of sharing their talents with an audience. The opportunity
is then available to give glory to God in acknowledging Him in all that
we do.
It was wonderful to witness the winning of a second Brownlow
Medal for a former Christian College student Gary Ablett Jr. His
football has amazed and inspired many of us over the years but it
was even greater to hear him acknowledge God when thanking
those who had helped him.
Our aim as always is to help our students shine their ‘light’.
‘You are like light for the whole world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.
No one lights a lamp and puts it under a bowl; instead it is put on the
lampstand, where it gives light for everyone in the house. In the same way
your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things
you do and praise your Father in heaven.’
(Mat 5:14-16) GNB
Wayne Hines
Head of Middle School, Highton
Opportunities Bring Growth and Joy Students performing at the Annual Music Evening
Students performing at the Middle School Talent Quest.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 5 : .
Our College Principal states on our website that he
is ‘proud of the Christian College community for
the way that we share in the journey of educating
our students. The true sense of belonging that
students, staff and parents enjoy creates a unique
educational environment.’
We see the sense of ‘belonging’ carried out every
day at Christian College within the classroom, on
the school grounds and within the staff room. But
belonging to the Christian College community
stems far beyond the 12 years of education and
the College walls.
This is prevalent at each 10 Year Reunion that is held
for past graduates. They all still feel as though they
belong to Christian College even though they have
progressed in their studies and years.
One of the 2003 Christian College graduates, Casey
Tutungi in late June of this year injured his spinal
cord when he collided with an opponent during a
football game and was diagnosed a quadriplegic.
Hearing of this tragic news, the Christian College
community rallied together and decided they would
help raise raising money for Casey. The money raised
would go towards Casey’s mission of travelling to
the USA for 2 months next year to be a part of the
world-renowned rehabilitation centre known as
‘Project Walk’.
Project Walk® Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Center,
the world leader in spinal cord injury recovery,
provides an improved quality of life for people
with a spinal cord injury through intense activity-
based recovery programs, education, training,
research and development.
The Junior School, Belmont campus raised money by
challenging each Year Level to run to Lorne (Casey’s
home town) and back, which equated to a round
journey of 120km. The students used their morning
fitness time to run and walk laps and build a growing
total over two weeks late in Term 3.
All year levels successfully made the 120km target
and raised over $4,000 through doing so.
At the Bellarine campus, money was raised through
a combination of donations from a casual dress
day and also by running a basketball ‘shoot-out
‘competition with two female Geelong Super Cats
players that visited the campus. Each fundraising
effort was a great success and the students were able
to raise a total of $939.10.
The Middle School, Highton campus had a football
dress-up day where each student wore their
favourite football team’s colours and gave a gold-
coin donation. They also ran a football ‘kick-off’
on the last day of Term 3 and Matthew Scarlett
presented the main prize. Middle School, Highton
raised $2,209.35 through their great efforts.
Senior School supported the cause with Flynn
House students writing messages of hope that
were sent to Casey. They also created a ‘Mini
Market’ that was held at Senior campus that
incorporated a gold coin donation on entry,
sausage sizzle and food sale, silent auction from
donated goods plus live music. The students
fundraising at Senior School raised $1500.00.
Through these efforts by each campus, Christian
College raised $8650 for Casey Tutungi.
The College community thanks all the students
and teachers for their dedication in making the
fundraising efforts come to fruition.
We pray that the funds raised help Casey continue
on his mission to one day walk again.
Fundraising for ‘One of Our Own’
Casey Tutungi, 2003 Christian College graduate.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 6 : .
Mathematics equips our students with a uniquely powerful
set of tools to understand and change the world. These tools
include logical reasoning, problem-solving skill and the
ability to think in abstract ways. As such, Mathematics is a
creative discipline. It can stimulate moments of happiness
and wonder when a student or teacher solves a problem
for the first time, discovers a more efficient solution to a
problem or suddenly sees hidden connections and patterns.
Throughout history, mathematics has shaped the way we
view the world. Mathematics helps us see the order and
beauty of God’s creation and of God himself. It has an
important role to play in our God-given stewardship of the
earth and in the building of human communities. It has
also been integral in many discoveries that have shaped the
world we live in.
Many life stages and skills require a solid grasp of
Mathematics, from entering university to balancing a
household budget, applying for a home loan, or assessing
a possible business opportunity. When children eventually
leave education and seek out a career, they will inevitably
need to call upon the mathematical skills and strategies
they have learnt at school. They will soon realise that many
careers require a solid understanding of Mathematics.
Doctors, lawyers and accountants use Mathematics
on a daily basis, as do builders, plumbers, engineers
and managers. Mathematics is a critical skill for many
professions and opens a world of opportunity for children.
Mathematics at Christian College.
In 2013, we entered a new phase in Mathematics
Education with the implementation of the Australian
Curriculum across our campuses from Prep through to
Year 10.
Mathematics in the Australian Curriculum aims to ensure
that students:
• Are confident, creative users and communicators
of mathematics, able to investigate, represent and
interpret situations in their personal and work lives and
as active citizens.
• Develop an increasingly sophisticated understanding
of mathematical concepts and fluency with processes,
and are able to pose and solve problems and reason in
Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, and
Statistics and Probability.
• Recognise connections between the areas of
mathematics and other disciplines and appreciate
mathematics as an accessible and enjoyable discipline
to study.
Throughout the Junior School and early Middle School years
from Prep through to Year 6, teachers have been using the
enVisionMATHS program. This is a Mathematics teaching
program that combines print-based teaching resources with
outstanding digital teaching and learning tools.
Mathematics is important
Year 5 students engrossed in Mathematics during the activities morning with their Year 9 mentors.
Year 8 & 9 students with their creation at the
Mathematics Challenge Excursion.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 7 : .
It provides for deep conceptual understanding of
Mathematics in accordance with the aims of the
Australian Curriculum. During the transition from
Junior School into Middle School, Years 5 and 6 will
also utilise the envisionMATHS program, importantly
providing a continuity and familiarity with the style
and format as they move through their educational
journey at Christian College.
In Years 7 to 10 we are using the Pearson
Mathematics series. This has been structured
according to the latest research on how students
learn mathematics and how to avoid common
misunderstandings, equipping us to deliver an
innovative and effective Mathematics education
to our students. These resources are based on the
latest pedagogical research on how students learn
best. It is supported by a rich multimedia resource
bank, which can help to create engaging lessons,
providing additional support, extension activities,
and consolidate learning.
To support the enVision and Pearson Mathematics
programs, we have also introduced our students
to Mangahigh, which is an online Mathematics
game-based resource. It provides students with
the opportunity to practice and consolidate new
skills and is also an excellent opportunity for both
students and teachers to get lots of immediate
feedback. More feedback means more opportunities
for students to work on misunderstandings, as well
as working on the process of learning how to learn.
It has proven to be a valuable addition this year and
will continue to be integrated into our teaching and
learning in years to come.
Spotlight on Math
Year 5 ‘Hand-on’ Mathematics with the Year 9
Mentors
During Term 3, the Year 5 students and their Year
9 mentors took part in a ‘hands on’ Mathematics
activities morning. Mentors worked with the student
groups helping to organise, guide and encourage
each other to become fully involved in these
Mathematics-related activities.
These activities included – calculating averages
(taken from the time in a running activity),
investigating capacity (filling containers with
water), multiplication and addition (from goal
shooting) measuring distance (taken from making
and throwing paper planes) and using compass
directions (identifying landmarks around the
campus).
The students finished their session together by
sharing in morning tea. The Year 5 students loved
spending time with their mentors and really enjoyed
their involvement. The mentors were able to develop
their leadership and teaching skills, as well as impart
some of the Mathematics they have developed
during their time at Christian College.
Year 8 and 9 Maths Challenge Excursion
As part of the Year 8 and 9 Mathematics Challenge
program in Term 2, students participated in a fun
event involving principles of Science, Engineering
and Mathematics at Victoria University, Footscray
campus. It was designed for teams to work
on a problem scenario such as designing and
constructing a building to withstand the force of a
tsunami. Their constructions were then put to the
test in a ‘wave pool’ with points allocated for height,
weight and size of wave which the construction
could withstand. The key concepts of the day were to
engage students immediately in an activity, with the
minimum of introduction and theory and for them
to explore scientific principles for themselves rather
than being guided to a pre-determined answer.
The students were also given a guided tour of
Mathematics is important(Continued)
Burrows winners of the Senior House Mathematics Competition.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 8 : .
Mathematics is important(Continued)
the University’s new ‘Sports Medicine and Performance
Research’ facilities and were able to see first hand how
Mathematics and Science combine to create improved
sporting performance.
Senior School House Mathematics Competition
At the Senior Campus, the students regularly compete for
their house in lunchtime competitions, and in Term 3 the
much anticipated House Maths Competition was held over
four consecutive lunchtimes. Each lunchtime saw between
40 and 60 students from Years 10 to 12 compete in the
following activities:
Monday – Snap Quiz; quick mental-arithmetic style
questions.
Tuesday – Round Table; working collaboratively on 10
challenging non-routine problems.
Wednesday – Letters and Numbers; based around the SBS
TV Game Show.
Thursday – Mathematics Relay; a fast-paced and lively relay
race to answer 20 questions.
Many additional students came along to watch and support
those competing, and I was again amazed at our students
ability to problem solve and to apply their Mathematics
skills in non-routine and often abstract situations. It was
also impressive to see what students were able to achieve
collectively and collaboratively.
It was great fun but it was also a competition and Burrows
dominated the competition across the four days, taking
out the House Mathematics trophy for the second
consecutive year.
Year 5 and 9 students enjoying the Mathematics activities day together.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 9 : .
A sold-out Costa Hall audience witnessed the
benefits of a great music education at the College’s
Annual Music Evening on Thursday October 18th.
The night featured students from Year Prep to 12 in
fifteen ensembles. The high standard and quality of
the students’ performances featured a huge range
of styles and contrast, ranging from the energy
of young musicians giving their first big stage
performance to the poise and maturity of our most
senior musicians.
As well as great ensemble performances our
students have achieve wonderful work as soloists
throughout the year. From Year Prep. to 12 over 700
music lessons happen each week at the College. A
student’s musical ‘journey’ while developing as a
performer can include a huge range of opportunities
and challenging experiences. Across the campuses
the Music Department organises student solo
performance opportunities which include class
recitals, informal lunchtime concerts and Campus
Music Evenings. Students are encouraged by the
music staff to experience music performance and
play in a friendly environment in front of peers,
family and friends. These solo performance opportunities are a celebration of
hours of careful preparation and practice, and a result of passionate, expert
teaching. Students also complete examinations in both performance and
theory with the AMEB and ANZCA.
Christian College is proud of our students’ achievements and at a VCE level, we
have had many students receive outstanding results. Last year, two of our Year
12 students received the perfect study score of 50 for VCE Music Investigation.
Opportunities exist for students to complete Year 12 Music Studies early in
their VCE, as we have an accelerated class of students that complete Year 12
Performance in Year 11 each year. Many of our outstanding young musicians
have continued onto tertiary music study and forged successful careers
in various music pathways. We are excited to be able to offer VET Music
Performance at the Senior Campus in 2014 for the first time.
The College Ensemble program has a series of camps and tours that past
students often reflect upon as major highlights in their time at school. We hold
annual music camps for both Middle and Senior Campus Ensembles and the
Senior Campus has a bi-annual performance tour. Our Middle Schools ‘
Music Camp, held in Anglesea in September this year saw 189 students
rehearse in bands, choirs and string orchestras to prepare for the College
Annual Music Evening. During the camp students work as large ensemble
groups and also spend time working on their instrument or voice in small
groups with specialist tutors. Here they focus and learn about the finer details
of playing their instruments individually and in an ensemble. A huge feature of
this camp is the students from Year 4 to 9 from both the Bellarine and Highton
campus working, learning and playing together while making new friends
across the year levels and campuses.
Plans are now well underway for the Senior Music Tour in April 2014, where
95 students and staff will travel to China and Hong Kong to take part in school
exchange performances as well as perform at the 6th Hong Kong International
Youth Music Festival. Music students and parents have held a BBQ at Bunnings
Warehouse to raise funds for the trip as well as a Christmas card fundraiser. It
will be an exciting time preparing for this trip and one that promises to be a
rewarding experience for the tour members.
Musical Success in 2013
The Combined Middle School Concert Band.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 10 : .
Each year in September many of the Christian College ensembles
and selected students soloists compete in competitions such as the
prestigious Royal South Street Competition in Ballarat. This year’s
competition results highlight excellent student solo performances
as well as College Ensembles setting a great standard in their
divisions. Congratulations to all students who performed at South
Street, Geelong Eisteddfod and the Geelong Movement and Music
Festival at GPAC. At all events the College was been blessed by
wonderful musical performances as well as fabulous commitment and
presentation from each performer.
Highlights of Competition results in Music competitions 2013:
• Christian College Geelong Combined Middle School Strings –
2ND Prize at RSSS
• Christian College Geelong Combined Middle School Concert
Band – 1st Prize at RSSS and a Gold Award the the VSMF
• Christian College Senior Wind Symphony – 2nd Prize at RSSS and
Platinum Award at the VSMF.
• Christian College VCE String Ensemble -1st Prize at RSSS
• Christian College Junior School Year 4 Choir Belmont – 2nd prize
at RSSS
• Christian College Bellarine Geelong Junior School Choir – 3rd
Prize at Geelong Eisteddfod
• Christian College Senior Stage Band – 4th Place at the National
Championships & HM at RSSS
• Alex Jeantou, Yr 10 Tuba Soloists 1st prize in 3 solo sections - 18
yrs & Under, VCE Solo, Open Solo
• Tess Barber, Yr 11 Flute soloists 1st prize in the open woodwind
solo & Hm in the 18yrs & Under
• Blake Newton, Yr 11 Guitar soloist 1st prize in 2 sections -
Acoustic Guitar Solo & Open Solo
• Grace Law, Yr 8 Piano soloist 1st prize in Solo by Aust. Composer
U 14, 3rd prize in u14 solo section and winner of the Darcy
Perpetual Shield for piano.
• Chloe Kacprzak, Yr 9 Vocal Soloists 1st Prize in 2 sections – U15
Pop Vocal & U15 Musical Theatre Vocal
• Other students who placed in the 1st or 2nd place of their solo
sections at RSSS – George Elliss, Nathaneal Chong - Yr 6, Emilie
Crole – Yr 7, Hollie Steele, Jodie Mitten, Molly Ganim-Heath - Yr
8, Joshua Farrell, Ben Farrell, Neel Malhotra, Zachary Edwards,
Gemma Podbury - Yr 9, Will Crowther, Bella Winter - Yr 10,
Hannah Rundell, Joshua Smith, Ashleigh Cushion - Yr 11, Tanya
Ferguson Yr 12.
Fiona Gardner
Director of Teaching & Learning - Music
Musical Success in 2013 (continued)
Ainslie Liley and Alice Waddell, VCE String Ensemble
Senior Wind Symphony at the Annual College Music Evening
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 11 : .
A Culture of Learning
Learning is a basic and universal human activity.
Society is based on learning, communities are
held together by learning and people construct
their identities through learning. A school must
offer learning as a key to the world. It must build
on diversity, and create diversity. We want our
students leaving school not only having a grasp of
uniform knowledge, but to be self-directed, creative,
adaptable and knowledgeable.
The culture of learning has a profound impact on
students’ academic behaviours. All of us at one time
or another, have experienced the phenomenon of
a classroom ‘charged’ with energy and enthusiasm
for learning. But it can be challenging to replicate
that experience every day to create an environment
that increases the likelihood that all students will
engage and learn. Current research indicates that the
culture of learning is shaped by many factors. These
include the attitudes and beliefs of the students and
teachers, the classroom interactions, the available
resources, and the instructional practices employed
by the teacher.
The culture of learning is positively affected when
teachers and students develop a true community
of learners. A community of learners can be defined
as a group of people who share values and beliefs
and who actively engage in learning from one
another—learners from teachers, teachers from
learners, and learners from learners. They create a
learning-centred environment in which students
and educators are actively and intentionally
constructing knowledge and skills together.
Learning communities are connected, cooperative
and supportive. Peers are interdependent in that
they have joint responsibility for learning and share
resources and points of view, while sustaining
a mutually respectful and cohesive environment.
A positive learning community supports diverse
student capabilities by enabling all members to
participate at their level of expertise and comfort—
and, specifically, is characterised by feelings of safety
among participants, along with a willingness to
ask questions and make mistakes. This supported
engagement motivates students so that they are
more willing to persist when they are challenged
or confused. Environments that foster beliefs of
competence through effort can create a secure
sense of belonging; ones’ interest, commitment, and
progress matter more than ones’ perceived ability
(Inzlicht & Good, 2006). Therefore, a priority for us
at Christian College is creating a safe community in
which peers and teachers are viewed as allies, which
is essential for greater engagement and inevitably
academic achievement.
‘Art from the Heart’ at Christian College Bellarine
In Term 3, the Bellarine Campus hosted an event
titled ‘Art from the Heart’, the concept and vision
was directed by Mrs. Anne Young and she was ably
supported by Mrs. Sally Gray. The concept was
simple – all students from Prep to Year 6 produced
a piece of art work for the campus based ‘exhibition’
as a part of their regular lessons, the piece was then
framed and put up for sale for parents, family, staff
and the community to purchase in the form of an
exhibition.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.au
Organiser of ‘Art from the Heart’ Anne Young with Principal
Glen McKeeman and engaged students viewing the artwork.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 12 : .
However, there was a twist, with all proceeds of the
sale of student work going towards the One hundred
for 100 Campaign, supporting the work of Miss Kristi
Van Es who is spending this year following her call to
mission in addressing the people trafficking issues in
India.
This concept started as quite a simple learning
activity, however momentum quickly gathered and
the rich learning experience that followed for our
students was something to behold. Students quickly
grasped that THEIR work was going to be on display
for all to see in the form of a real life exhibition,
the level of engagement immediately rose, the
focus and attention to detail was exquisite and the
collaboration of the Bellarine Campus to see this
exhibition come to fruition was a wonderful example
of what can be achieved when we create learning
opportunities that have sense, meaning and a real
life application.
In the lead up to the event I witnessed first-hand the
following impacts on learning:
• Students were excited and engaged with
creating their piece of art work
• Students were researching India, the culture,
the colours and considering how their piece of
artwork could best reflect the country of focus
• The value of creating this piece of work was
magnified, it was for a real life purpose
• Great thought, care and detail was being put in
to producing the best piece of work that each
individual student could produce
• Students were collaborating, sharing ideas,
encouraging each other, making suggestions on
how each piece could be improved
• The Year 9 Food Technology students joined
in and began researching the food of India,
producing these items during class time,
freezing them and preparing them for service
during the exhibition
• Other students were preparing flyer’s, posters
and advertising materials, whilst others were
being trained to do ‘food service’ at the official
opening of the event
The ‘Art from the Heart’ Exhibition was conducted
in the basement of the Auditorium at the Bellarine
Campus, and even we could not have predicted the
response! Over 400 people attended the official
opening and exhibition, ALL Prep to Year 6 student
artworks were sold and over $5, 500 was raised for
the One Hundred for 100 Campaign.
Learning in school should be an extension and
enhancement of the learning and thinking that
students do outside of school, and vice-versa. If there
are no boundaries between subject matter and the
social contexts in which it is useful—if school is not
an isolated community of learners learning only
‘school things’, then there is a possibility for merging
practice outside and inside the classroom. Everyday
situations give real life content and context to all
curricular studies. This is not simply an enhancement
to motivation for learning, but a direct approach to
the basic issue of creating meaningful learning. ‘Art
from the Heart’ certainly captured what it means to
be an effective community of learners.
Scott Elliss
Head of Bellarine Campus
A Culture of Learning(continued)
The crowds enjoying the ‘Art from the Heart’ exhibition at the Bellarine Campus.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 13 : .
Ensuring students receive a rigorous grounding in
understanding and method,whilst providing an exciting
curriculum to inspire students is the preeminent
challenge for Science teachers in the 21st century.
Earlier this year, when Matthew McInerney mentioned
that his grandfather worked for NASA, Deb Singleton
saw an opportunity not to be missed. Roger Seastedt
designed Space Shuttles back in the 1980’s and together
with his good friend Chuck Larson, a Shuttle design
engineer, they were only too delighted to talk to the Year
5 students at Bellarine back in May. The students had
researched and studied ‘Earth and Space’ and all were
armed with questions for the spacemen. The astronauts
repaid handsomely with responses pitched perfectly for
their young audience, who stayed riveted throughout
the 40-minute trans-pacific link.
Creating interest is only the first stage in developing
a budding scientist. The faculty at all campuses
endeavours to match this enthusiasm with a solid
grounding in the understanding of scientific principles,
the ability to inquire in a rigorous and scientific way and
to nurture creativity through project assignments. We
have been updating the content we deliver – to align
with the Australian Curriculum – but have also opted
to extend our students in specific areas where we think
a greater depth of understanding is essential for the
pursuit of excellence.
The Approach May be Starting to Bear Fruit….
Just recently, two of our Year 9 students were selected
for the ‘Conoco Phillips Science Experience’. Lachlan
Fog and Angus Callahan have a goal to help mankind
through research into new medicines. They will spend
three days at Melbourne University participating in a
broad spectrum of hands on experiments relevant to the
medical field.
In Year 10, students learn the art of titration – a key
technique that ensures your tablets have the right
dosage or chemicals we buy are the correct strength.
Together with the Year 12 Chemistry students, they
compete against all other students in Victoria. Our
highest-ranking Year 10 team placed 3rd in the state,
whilst only one other student in Victoria bettered
Annaliese Dillon’s (Year 12) accuracy and precision.
Alistair Chandler has been selected to attend the
National Youth Science Forum. Alistair and two other
Year 11 students progressed to the final selection
process where they were all subjected to a rigorous
round of interviews, debates and test exercises. Alistair’s
achievement will see him join about 100 of Australia’s
most ambitious Science students at a two week
residential course in Perth in January 2014.
With individual success there has also been an
increase in uptake across the sciences. We have had
to recruit expert teachers in Chemistry and Physics
to meet the demand for multiple VCE classes in all
sciences. Retention rate statistics also demonstrate
that our students are making sound and informed
subject choices. And now, as our Year 12 students
enter the home stretch, we are very proud that, for
many, this has only been one leg of what will be a
lifelong voyage in Science.
Michael Neaves
Director of Teaching & Learning- Science
Finding the Spark to Ignite the PassionAlistair Chandler who has been selected to attend the National Youth Science Forum.
Annaliese Dillon perfecting the art of titration.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 14 : .
New Pathways for Senior School 2014VCE-VETand VCAL
Christian College Senior School is proud of its VCE success stories and over the
past 10 years the program and subject offerings have increased to meet the
needs and interests of our students. In evaluating how to complement our
senior secondary experience and provide pathways for students who wanted
an alternative to the VCE, it was decided to extend our program to include VET
and VCAL.
For those new to the terminology, the VCE is the Victorian Certificate of
Education, it is a senior secondary qualification with successful students
undertaking entry into employment or tertiary studies. VCE students study
a minimum of 16 units of study across Years 11 and 12. In most cases, VET or
Vocational Education and Training certificates, are counted as units towards the
attainment of VCE. VET certificates provide students with comprehensive
and relevant industry skills and experience. This study combined with
the VCE is a balanced combination of academic and vocational studies.
Upon completion, VCE-VET students will have access to tertiary courses,
apprenticeships or other employment.
Another option for students who wish to complete Year 12 and attain a senior
secondary qualification is to undertake VCAL. VCAL stands for the Victorian
Certificate of Applied Learning. VCAL is studied, like VCE or VCE-VET, at different
levels across Year 11 and 12 and is comprised of studies in Literacy, Numeracy,
Industry Skills, Work Related Skills and Personal Development. Students
undertaking VCAL will also complete a VET certificate in an industry relevant area,
or an area of personal development.
VCAL is a flexible learning environment and aims to meet both the interests and
learning needs of the students. VCAL students will form strong community and
industry links, and like VCE students will receive a statement of results when they
successfully complete their studies.
In 2014 we welcome our first intake of both VCE-VET and VCAL students. The VCE–
VET students will study industry recognised certificates in Fitness, Allied Health,
Building and Construction, Childcare or Music. Additionally we will see 3 of our
Year 12 students graduate with their VCAL qualification.
VCE-VET and VCAL students will enjoy the same
access and opportunities, pastoral care and
involvement that they are accustomed to at Senior
School. They will have the support of a dedicated
VET and VCAL coordinator and we look forward to
the new relationships that Christian College will form
with community organisations and employers.
Enquiries regarding our VCE, VCE-VET and VCAL
pathways are always welcome at Senior School from
families. We hope you follow us on the journey
next year as we showcase the achievements of our
students, and we warmly invite families who may like
to offer community links or work related experiences
to contact myself or the VET/VCAL coordinator at
Senior School.
Dianne Martin
Deputy Head of Senior School
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 15 : .
Where Are They Now?
Lyndal Dew – 2008 Graduate
Professional Triathlete
Since graduating from Christian College I was inspired to continue
my studies further by completing a ‘Bachelor of Sport and Recreation
Management’ at Victoria University.
While this course was exciting and interesting, I was still looking for
something else. I had always had the thought of being a professional
athlete as my ultimate job and career path, but I never knew this could be
possible, as I never thought I was good enough!
In late 2009 I began competing in triathlons as a social and challenging
sport to complement my netball at the time. I quickly began to surprise
myself with my natural ability, winning nearly all the events I entered. I
quickly lost my interest for netball and dedicated all my time and effort
to triathlons.
I soon found myself winning multiple Victorian and Australian
Championship titles and representing Australia at the World
Championships.
After a successful 2012 and 2013 season racing as an
elite athlete in events around Victoria, I managed to
get selected to become a professional level athlete to
represent Australia. This is triathlon’s biggest ‘ticket’ to
racing against the world’s best triathletes from all over the
world. To me, this was a dream come true.
Since gaining my ‘professional license’, I have now
completed two professional races overseas. The first race
was in September in Singapore, where I placed 5th.
The second race was China, where I placed 1st. These
results have far exceeded my expectations and I hope this
is a sign of great things to come in the future.
My current job as a professional athlete is like any job. It
has ultimate highs and lows. I must admit though, I do
wake up each day with a smile on my face thinking how
lucky I am to train and race for a living.
However, it is not always as glamorous as it seems. On
those cold winters’ mornings when it is pouring rain I still
have to train. The positives though of traveling the world,
meeting new people, pushing my physical limits and
seeing some awesome places, keep me going.
I am lucky enough to also have fantastic support from my
family, friends, coaches and sponsors who all want to see
me chase my goals and dreams.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 16 : .
A Typical Training Day:
5.30am: wake up
6-7.30am: swim session
8-10am: bike + run session
10.30am-1.30am: breakfast + rest + lunch
2-3pm: pilates/gym session
3-4.30pm: swim session
5.30-6pm: stretch and massage
6pm- dinner + rest
The best thing my parents did for me was sending me to
Christian College. I learnt and developed great values, morals
and beliefs that now guide my daily decisions and choices that
I make.
Down Memory Lane
I have many special memories of my time at Christian College. A
particular memory that stands out was ‘The Farm Experience’ in
Year 9. This opportunity gave me my first taste of independence
and created some lifelong friendships.
I also have great memories of all the sports days,the formal and
debutant ball.
A particular teacher that had the biggest impact on my time at
Christian College was Andrew Richardson who, at the time, was
the Senior School Physical Education Co-ordinator. From day
one, he always went out of his way to help me and made me
believe that I could achieve anything I put my mind to.
I would like to tell anyone reading this to follow your dreams;
anything is possible and never give up. From experience, all
my successes and opportunities have come from hard work,
commitment, sacrifice and a positive attitude. Usually just when
you are about to give up, success is just around the corner, so
keep searching for what it is that you are looking for.
If you cannot find a way, create one.
Where Are They Now?(continued)
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 17 : .
R U OK? Day at Senior School
This year at Senior School a small committee of staff with the
Chaplains worked together planning activities that would ‘de-
stigmatize’ the negative label often associated with mental health.
We wanted to encourage everyone to admit that some days are
harder than others, but there is always hope for a brighter future
through God.
We began the day by using the staff devotion to consider
Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus, the tax collector. Jesus told
Zacchaeus he would see salvation because Jesus came to seek
and save the lost.
Our staff were then encouraged to answer two questions
anonymously, under the heading; ‘Sometimes we are not OK, and
that is OK.’
• What hides behind your smile sometimes?
• What is your phrase of hope for yourself and others today?
House group teachers then took these questions and used their
devotion time to ask their students to answer them as well. Through
this activity, by recess we had a very large collection of honest
thoughts and hopeful ideas from the staff and students, all written
on sheets of green paper. The organising team then pinned them
up in the corridor in front of the Chapel for everyone to view.
Many students and staff took time to read them, which evoked
many discussions about mental health, and how asking if ‘U R
OK?’ can offer support and strength to those in need.
At Senior School, as at all the Christian College campuses, we
gave out juicy green apples to the students and staff as a symbol
of health and a reminder to check in with one another.
We are very grateful to Glyn Harvey, from ‘Harveys of Highton’
who has been generously donating the apples for four years. Our
staff were also treated to an apple themed morning tea and we
thank the ‘Porter Hot Bread Kitchen’ for their generosity too.
‘RUOK? Day’ at Christian College was a day for raising
awareness, breaking down barriers and most importantly,
encouraging us all to reach out and be a light of hope, grace,
truth, faith and love to others.
Lyn Nethercote
Senior School Chaplain
Senior students reading the honest thoughts during ‘R U OK? Day’.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 18 : .
Save the DateA reminder that the Christian College end of year
formalities are coming around quick and fast so please
keep the following relevant dates available in your diary:
• Year 12 Graduation - Sunday 24th November 2:00pm
• Senior School –Wednesday 27th November 1:30pm
• Junior School, Bellarine –Monday 2nd December 7:00pm
• Middle School, Bellarine –Tuesday 3rd December 7:00pm
• Middle School, Highton –Wednesday 4th December 7:00pm
• Junior School, Belmont –Thursday 5th December 7:00pm
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 19 : .
General Excellence Scholarships
Christian College Geelong is pleased to offer a
number of General Excellence Scholarships each
year for entry at Year 5 or Year 7 at Middle School,
Highton and at Bellarine Campus and at Year 10 level
at Christian College Senior School in Waurn Ponds.
These Scholarships have been designed primarily to
encourage and support new and current students
who wish to enrol at Christian College and who
demonstrate high levels of academic excellence,
character and citizenship.
Successful Scholarship application will mean that
the student’s tuition fees are reduced by up to 50%
annually and this will continue through Middle
School to Year 12 at Senior School.
The Scholarship selection process involves
consideration of application responses from
the student, a written test, and interviews for
shortlisted applicants.
Scholarship students would also be eligible to join
the Christian College Q’ed program for talented
and gifted students at Year 5 or Year 7 level. This
programme is held weekly over 2 Terms at Christian
College Senior School and provides students with
learning experiences that encourage divergent
thinking, multidisciplinary concepts as well as
co-operative working scenarios. Each year the
units completed will culminate in an exposition
presentation to the Christian College community.
Scholarship Application forms will be available
online www.christiancollege.vic.edu.au from
December 2013 for entry at Year 5, Year 7 or Year 10
in 2015.
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 20 : .
2013 Motivator Distribution
Because of the changes in format to the 2013
Motivator we are planning to distribute the College
Yearbook to students in years Prep. to Year 8 at each
Campus on the last student day of the year – Friday
6 December.
For families in Years 9 to 12, one copy per family
will be delivered by Australia Post in the week
commencing 9 December. Because the Motivator
will include a DVD this year, delivery instructions
have included FRAGILE - DO NOT FOLD, so an
Australia Post notice may be left in your letterbox if
space is limited.
I trust that all families will enjoy reading and viewing
the highlights of the school year as well as an insight
into a wide variety of classroom learning.
Gwen Prosser
Editor of Motivator
christ iancol lege.vic.edu.auPage 21 : .
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