MARCH 2003

From the Principal

During the first few days of this term, I took the opportunity to walk around the playground of one of the College Campuses, and during those few minutes in the yard, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the smiles on the faces, and the excitement in the voices of the children as they came out to play. I overheard one group saying that their grade was THE BEST. What a wonderful start to the year - full of expectations, challenges and laughter!

Communication with Parents

As the College has grown, the need for effective communication has also grown with it. So, in response, the College Administration will be publishing a newsletter such as this, at regular intervals, as well as the College Calendar and the end of Term magazine, Christian College In Focus magazine.
This Christian College publication, In Focus – Newsletter will focus on providing information concerning the College organisation, procedures and plans, as well as reports of key activities occurring on each Campus. Each Head of Campus will give an overview of Campus events and developments. This will provide families with an overall picture of the life of the College, as well as up- to- date information on happenings throughout the Campuses.

Student Leadership.

Over the past few weeks I have been to several of the Campus Leadership Induction Services held for both students and staff who are taking on leadership roles or positions of responsibility in the College community.
As a College, we feel it is vitally important to encourage young people to be active in, and responsible for the community in which they live. By becoming a Prefect, an SRC Representative, a House Captain or by committing themselves to other roles of responsibility in the College, they experience many challenges and character -building opportunities. Congratulations to those students who have accepted these important roles for 2003.

Campus Leadership.

I would also like to express my congratulations to the new Heads of Campus and the Deputies who have been appointed last year and take on their new roles this academic year.
Mr Glen McKeeman - Head of the Senior Campus,
Mr Stephen Riddle - Head of Middle School and Mr Wayne Hines- Deputy Head of Middle School
Mr Scott Ellis - Head of the Bellarine Campus and Mr Graham Stephens – Deputy Head of the Bellarine Campus.
I pray God’s blessing for the leaders of each Campus as they meet the challenges of educational leadership in 2003.

Class Numbers Policy Change

There has been a great deal of discussion throughout education circles in recent months concerning maximum numbers of students in each class. Last year, during a College Board Planning Day, a range of decisions and policies concerning maximum classroom numbers were made. From 2004 we will strive to attain the following class number limitations within the constraints of staffing, student choices and family sibling enrolments.
Year Prep student class numbers be limited to 20 per class,
Year 1 student class numbers be limited to 22,
Year 2 student class numbers be limited to 24,
Year 3 to Year 11 class numbers be limited to 26,
Year 12 student class numbers be limited to 20.

It is important to note that these decisions cannot be made lightly and without an economic impact upon the College. With the increase in Federal Government funding being returned to most private schools through the Liberal Party’s new SES funding model, (Socio Economic Status), we have been able to make these concessions which we believe will be important for the educational well being of all our students.

New Facilities and Planning

With the development of the new Master Plans for the College facilities nearing completion, it has been a complex process of looking at the physical and educational needs of the College for the next decade.
As a result of the continued steady growth in student numbers enrolling at the College, the needs of each campus are pressing, and so some of the works have had to begin well before our official presentation of the completed plans. In Term 2, 2003 each family at Christian College will receive a Master Planning Information package, which will give details of our future plans for educational programmes and resources over the next ten years.
The following developments are now in the final planning stages in order to accommodate our increasing enrolments

1. Middle School, Highton

During the second half of last year, many parents will have noticed the changes occurring around the Middle School Campus with the removal of the old cypress trees and the building of the new sports courts on the northern side of the Campus.
These courts are now finished and it has been wonderful to see so many students enjoying them.
As part of the basketball courts project, sprinklers were installed to the grass areas, and, at the same time an investigation was carried out into the poor operation of the sprinklers on the oval. This turned out to be due to a reduction in the water pressure since the initial installation, and has been corrected by putting in an appropriate tank and pump system. The tank will also make use of any rainwater, and we are investigating the possibilities of adding more tanks to help with future irrigation water supplies.
The tennis courts have also been upgraded with new chain wire mesh fencing, and attention will be paid to the playing surface during the course of the year.
Work will continue around the Middle School Campus with the development of parking facilities and landscaping at the front entrance of the Campus.
Programmed painting of the external painted areas of the Middle School Campus has also been completed. We anticipate that with proper periodic maintenance a complete repaint will not be required for 7 years.

2. Junior School, Belmont

Works on two basketball/netball courts and landscaping at the Junior School will begin in the next few weeks.
These new hard- surfaced playing areas need to be completed before commencing the upgrading of the four courtyard areas.
The front administration area of the Junior School will also be renovated and extended during this year as well as the programmed painting of the outside entry, timber windows fascias and decorative features of the buildings.

3. Bellarine Campus, Drysdale

Bellarine Campus will see the exciting major development of five new classrooms along with a landscaped courtyard and seating area being developed adjacent to the Year 9 Centre. These classrooms will become the hub of the Middle School area, ensuring excellent study facilities for the increasing numbers wishing to enrol at our Bellarine Campus. This development will begin early in Term two as the tendering for these building projects has already commenced.

4. Senior Campus, Waurn Ponds

One of the advantages of Christian College is that each Campus allows students to progress within a Christian learning environment from Kindergarten through to Year 12. We acknowledge that the Senior Campus is vitally important to the future tertiary or training aspirations of each one of our students, regardless of whether they are at Prep or Year 12 level in 2003.
Planning for the future development of the Senior Campus has been carefully considered and extensive. With students from both the Middle School at Highton and Middle School at Bellarine progressing into Years 10,11 and 12 at our Senior Campus in Waurn Ponds, the student enrolments there are estimated to grow to six hundred over the next five years. New classrooms incorporating the latest technological advances, as well as the development of new facilities for specialist studies are now in the planning stages.

Curriculum Development.

2002 year was significant in curriculum development at Christian College for a number of reasons.
As the College underwent it’s recent review with the Registered Schools Board, the College undertook the redevelopment of the entire College Curriculum documentation with one of the specific purposes being to create an up- to- date, meaningful and sequential curriculum which will continue to reflect our objectives and goals, as well as ensure the learning of those important skills and proficiencies needed to take our students into their chosen careers.
Each area of the College Curriculum will undergo an ongoing curriculum review where each facet of study will be carefully reconsidered with a view to its relevance, objectives, outcomes, teaching strategies and future directions. I wish to congratulate staff members at all Campuses for the important and extensive work that has already been carried out.
In closing, I would like to welcome all new families to Christian College. I trust that you will soon get to know the staff and other families at Christian College as we all strive to make your child’s educational journey a happy and challenging experience.

Daryl Riddle, Principal.

The Finance Report

Master Plan Progress

The Masterplan process is continuing well and now entering the more detailed phase of pricing and staging of the works. This, in conjunction with budget and cashflow information will determine the timing, and hence the overall anticipated completion dates for each of the stages. We anticipate the release of the Masterplan Information package to parents in Term 2, 2003.

Budget Planning

The proposed budgets presented to the members of the various Christian College companies at the end of last year will require some revision. Student enrolments have been greater than anticipated. This has required adjustment of teaching staff times and will result in some increased expenditure. This will, of course, be balanced by additional income in the form of Government Grant and Fees.
In the matter of Government Grants, we will be receiving another small increase in the level of funding this year as we move towards the full implementation of the “Socio-Economic Status” model of funding introduced in 2001. It is basically this increase which allows us to undertake the building works detailed in the Principal’s Report as well as to plan for a decrease in the maximum number of students in classes, without having to substantially increase our level of debt with the bank.
For the information of parents generally, it is anticipated that a summary statement of the school’s financial position will be incorporated in an edition of the In Focus – Newsletter, as soon as the annual audit has been completed.

Computer System Changes

As mentioned in my covering letter sent out with the Term1 Fee Accounts, we are in the process of installing a completely new administration computer system. Re-cabling the Middle school computer network, adding computer points to most classrooms, moving the servers and installing a new laser link to the Senior Campus was an enormous task over the summer vacation, and we decided to upgrade our software at the same time. All the hardware side of the installation is complete and working well. The conversion to the new software system is proceeding well with the basics being expected to be completed within the next two weeks. We shall then be able to move on to integrating the timetabling system, academic reports, and other "add on's".
By the end of this year it is our aim to have teachers entering student absences from the classroom as well as being able to access student information from any computer point. Eventually, (the current prediction is mid 2004) we shall be recording students marks and results of tests, and we hope to be able to implement a system whereby parents (with the appropriate password protection of course) will be able to access this information via the Internet. We will keep you informed of progress in this matter.
At present we are concentrating on making sure that the information we have in the new system is up-to-date and functioning correctly. In this period of change we would appreciate any feedback from parents regarding additional information you may require, or ways in which we may be able to communicate your College financial statement more effectively.
I can be contacted by email:
brewster@christiancollege.vic.edu.au or by appointment at the Middle School, Highton.

Paul Brewster, College Bursar.

New Staff 2003

Christian College welcomes the following teachers to our team of dedicated staff for 2003. We are confident that they bring many new ideas and much enthusiasm to their teaching task. We look forward to their valued contribution to the educational programme for students in their care.

Middle School, Highton
Miss Kim Berry, LOTE Indonesian/SOSE
Miss Rebecca Bourke, Year 6 Classroom
Mr. Greg Brinsmead, SOSE/Science
Mr. Mark Gellie, Year 8 Home Room/PhysEd./Outdoor Ed./Health
Mrs. Belinda Lyons-Lee, English/SOSE
Mr. Yuji Nakayama, LOTE Japanese
Miss Kate Seignior, Year 7 Home room./ Phys.Ed./Health
Mrs. Lesley Walters, Classroom Music
Mrs Cheryl Dober, Drama Specialist
Ms Molly Drayton, Art Specialist

Bellarine Campus, Drysdale
Mrs. Rhonda Browne, Year 9 Home room/English/SOSE
Mr. Wayne Durran, Information Technology.
Mrs. Hilary Clarke, Primary Art Specialist
Mrs. Kerryn Fearnsides, Home Eco./ Health
Mrs. Andrea Gray, Information Technology
Mrs. Rosemary Horton, Canteen Manager
Ms. Kristy Krywula, Year7 Homeroom/Primary Phys.Ed.
Miss Tracey Mellington, Year Prep Classroom
Ms. Debra Singleton, Year 8 Homeroom/Mathematics/Science
Mr Yuji Nakayama, LOTE Japanese
Miss Kim Berry, LOTE Indonesian

Senior Campus, Waurn Ponds
Mrs. Jacqueline Boyle, Taylor House Group/English
Mrs. Cheryl Dober, Drama Specialist
Ms. Molly Drayton, Art Specialist
Mrs. Mandy Jacobs, Mathematics
Ms. Nina Pichugin, English/Literature
Mr. Stephen Warden, Penman House Group/Commerce/SOSE/VCE Administration

Junior School, Belmont
Mrs. Jennifer Beck -Carlson, Art Specialist
Ms. Irene Martin, Three year olds Kindergarten teacher
Mrs. Sandra Neville, Year 2 Classroom.

Year 12 Academic Results 2002

Congratulations

Christian College Year 12 students in 2002 were extremely successful in gaining entry to their chosen tertiary courses for 2003. Many of the students had planned well in advance having completed some VCE Units 3 and 4 in Year 11, they had a greater range of subjects from which their ENTER (tertiary entrance) scores were calculated. Some also received bonus marks for the study of particular subjects relevant to their courses this year.
100% of our Year 12 students – 88 in total successfully completed their VCE at Christian College in 2002.
The Dux of School was Rebecca Caddy with an exceptional ENTER of 98.05.
Other students to earn an ENTER above 95 were Megan Hogendoorn, Rachael Barringer, Andrew Parker and Courtney Smith. In total, 25 students earned a ranking above 80 which is a just reward for their efforts.
38 students (43%) scored above 70, and 73 students (83%) earned an ENTER above 50 which is well above the national average.

Tertiary Choices

78 students applied for tertiary courses, through VTAC, and 68 received first or second round offers of places. Seven students have deferred their tertiary study for twelve months. A very pleasing aspect of the offers received was that most of the students were offered a course that was their first or second preference.
Our Year 12 students accepted offers to the following tertiary courses:
Arts/Humanities 19 Visual & Performing Arts 10 Sport 6 Science 5 Agriculture 5 Engineering 4 Nursing, Commerce, Computers, Teaching 3 Hospitality 2 Childcare 2
Tertiary Institutions chosen by our students included:
Deakin University (Geelong) 14University of Ballarat 8
Monash University 3 University of Melbourne 5
Latrobe University 6 Australian Catholic University 4
Victoria University 4 Australian National University 1
Gordon TAFE 3 University of Melbourne TAFE 3
Swinburne University TAFE 2
RMIT TAFE, Victoria University TAFE, Australian Alpine Institute, Australian College of Sports Therapy.
In addition students have taken direct-entry places at the Victorian College of the Arts, University of Ballarat, Northern Melbourne TAFE, Gordon TAFE and Marcus Oldham College. A number have commenced full-time employment.
We are proud that the overwhelming majority of our graduates have attained the goals that they set for themselves at the beginning of their VCE years.

Syd.Strauch.
Deputy Head Senior Campus/Careers Advisor

Congratulations to Graduate Rebecca Caddy,
Christian College Dux of 2002.
Rebecca is currently studying for a
degree in Arts/Science at University of Melbourne.

Student Leaders 2003

As this newsletter goes to press, the College community has had the opportunity to recognize and dedicate the student leaders for 2003 from the Senior Campus and the Bellarine Campus. The Middle School, Highton and Junior School student leaders will be acknowledged in the next In Focus, following their Induction and Dedication Service on 13 March.
We are proud to announce the following student leaders who have willingly accepted their vital roles of responsibility for this year.

Senior Penman House Prefects 2003

Senior Campus Prefects

Indicated alonside each name is their chosen area of special responsibility

BURROWS HOUSE
Nathalie Abdelkader (School Captain), Community Service/SRC/Publications
Sarah Dillon, Community Service/SRC/Publications
Fiona Faulkner, Music
Julian Ginn, Community Service/SRC/Publications
Simon Kennedy (School Captain), Sport
Matthew Murnane, Sport
Natalie Virgo-Milton, Sport
Monica Virgo-Milton, Sport

FLYNN HOUSE
Sharen Coleman, Community Service/Fundraising
Janelle Cook, Music
James Hattam, Sport
Tess Jones, SRC
Erin Lagoudakis, Registrar
Anna Muhlebach, Sport
Emily Quarrell, Publications
Jemimah Toole, Arts

PENMAN HOUSE
Katherine Davey, Community Service/Fundraising
Megan Holbrook, Arts
Christopher Kennedy, Sport
Leniece Mannisto, Sport
Jessie Martin, Registrar
Laurelle McConachy, Publications
Rebecca Reder, SRC
Jonathan Winkler, Music

TAYLOR HOUSE
Joshua Baker, Sport
Jane Ballinger, Community Service/Fundraising
Carly Carter, Arts
Joel Cooper, Publications
Lachlan Joyce, Music
Matthew Menheere, SRC
Aaron Noller, Registrar
Esther Smith, Sport

Christian College Bellarine

PREFECTS
Kate McGill (School Captain)
Todd Van Berkel (School Captain)
Mia Kafieris
Emma Osborne
Jessie Sutherland
Stephen McGain
Chelsea Merry

BURROWS HOUSE
House Captains
Hannah Peake.Nick Hinrichsen
Vice Captains
Elle Geall, Simon Peake
Junior School House Captains
Ellie Petho, Timothy Manson

FLYNNHOUSE
House Captains
Ashleigh Allbutt, Todd Van Berkel
Vice Captains
Breanna Cull, Stephen McGain
Junior School House Captains
Melinda Tomlins, Hugh Jamieson

PENMAN HOUSE
House Captains
Kathryn UrenLeigh Moyle
Vice Captains
Kate McGill, Matthew Williams
Junior School House Captains
Liberty Wild, Lachlan Plozza

TAYLOR HOUSE
House Captains
Chelsea Merry, Christopher Worland
Vice Captains
Emma Osborne, Matthew Chan
Junior School House Captains
Emma Stephens, Jack Lane

Student Representative Council
Year 4D Olivia Brooks-Meagher
Year 5D Nicholas Malcher
Year 5/6S Lochlainn Nicol
Year 6D Sophie Taylor
Year 7D Rachael Rollinson
Year 7S Lucy Hutton
Year 8D Jessica Olver
Year 8S Georgina Vallance
Year 9D Grace Dorman
Year 9S Sid Smith

Chapel Monitors
Thomas Quaife
Jessica Eichler
Adam Crowley-Clough
Heath Moyle
James Carrigg

Bus Captains
Louise Ferguson
Georgina Vallance
Aiden King
Jasmin Creece
Jack Merrin
Kelly McIntosh

Flag Monitors
Joshua Clark
Matthew Plant

Environmental Centre Coordinators
Lachlan Telfer
Aimee Kelynack
Erin Lander
Melissa Golden
Sarah Marsh
Tobias Bent
Kirsty Stewart

Environmental Centre Monitors
Ellie Petho
Joshua Humphries
Nathan Tyrrell
Adele McGain
Emily Schultz
Rachael Rollinson
Hannah Pearse
Corrina Bresnahan
Jane Osborne
Melinda Tomlins
Paul Liistro
Luke Tyrrell
Jessica Eichler.

From the Senior Campus

Meeting the Challenges

Attaining the fine balance between providing a discipline structure, with its expectations, and allowing senior students the opportunity to develop by taking responsibility for their growth and conduct, presents a challenge for the staff and students who share our campus.
The complex every day issues that students face, combined with meeting the expectations and demands of the V.C.E and senior studies, require each of us sharing this journey together, to foster and develop our ability to show patience, compassion and love.
In doing so, we also have a responsibility to develop within the students a sense of their role in our community and the hopes that the community hold for them. This translates to the expectations of other members of the Senior School, the wider Christian College community, residents of our local area, our nation and the much broader global village.
Recent world events have highlighted the fact that our future depends on young people who can think and act in ways that will enrich the lives of others. I believe that our world needs citizens who can act with discipline, thought for others and a desire to serve their community.

Opportunities and Guidelines

This year it is my aim to provide the students of the Senior Campus with the opportunity to discover and develop character qualities that will be life long assets for each individual, their families and our society.
In order to achieve such an outcome, the staff and I will endeavour to provide consistent and clear guidelines and consequences that will enable all students to fulfil their dreams for the future, with hope and anticipation, underpinned by a growing faith in God. May He bless each of us on our journey together.

Family and College

When dealing with young people in schools such as ours, that have clear policies and guidelines that relate to uniform, behaviour and work requirements, discipline measures and consequences play a vital part.
In order for these student management measures to be effective, it is important to develop a respectful and cohesive relationship between individual families and the College.
If we can clearly identify with our common mission to show love and respect for each person’s role in the journey, the outcome for each student would be for each one to make the most of the opportunities offered at Christian College. For the support given to me at the commencement of my leadership at the Senior school, I am most grateful. Throughout the year ahead I hope to be able to contribute to the wellbeing of each of the students in my care, directly or indirectly through the development of the learning environment I aim to establish.

Commencement of the College Year

To that end, I have been delighted with the commencement of the year and thank the staff and students for their endeavours thus far. The POWERS program was an outstanding success, providing students in Years 11and 12 with appropriate skills and a focus for the year ahead. At the same time, Year 10 students participated in an orientation program designed to assist them with the transition to their new campus.
The Commencement Service led by our Chaplain Revd. Tomlins with an address by The Mayor of The City of Greater Geelong Cr. Barbara Abley, and the recent Prefects’ Investiture Service, demonstrated the maturity of our students. Their conduct on each of these occasions is to be commended. I have received a number of complimentary comments, including those of The Mayor.
My congratulations to the Student Prefects on their appointment to their positions of responsibility. This year Nathalie Abdelkader and Simon Kennedy have been selected as School Captains. I wish them God’s blessings during the year ahead.

House Sport

Finally , it was an absolute delight to be present at this years Inter-House Swimming carnival. The spirit displayed by each of the Houses and the involvement of the large number of students either as competitors or encouraging spectators was impressive. Congratulations to Burrows House on their victory, their first in fifteen years of Senior competition in the pool.

Glen McKeeman
Head of the Senior Campus
Waurn Ponds

Mr McKeeman and the Principal, Mr Riddle, congratulate our 2003 Senior School Captains Nathalie Abdelkader and Simon Kennedy on their appointment

Middle School News

Welcome

First of all l would like to officially welcome all our new families to the Christian College community. The one hundred and twenty new students who started at Middle School, from Years 5 to 9 this year have made a very smooth transition into the life of the College and have settled in well to classroom routines.
This first term is very important in developing strong relationships with our students and the parent body. You will notice that all the functions that have been occurring this term have, at their core, a theme of relationship building. I would like to thank all the families who have attended the Welcome Services. It was wonderful to see so many families and to personally meet many of our new families.

Camps Programme

First term will see all our students participating in our Camps Program from Year 5 through to Year 8. These camps play a very important part in allowing our students, especially in Year 7, to get to know their teachers and to make new friendships.
The Year 9 Farm Program has already commenced and we look forward to the growth in character and maturity of the students, as they tackle the many and various challenges that the program presents. Each year the popularity of the program continues to grow as we look to add different facets to the learning experience. ‘Back Creek’ Co-Ordinator Mr Russell Barter and his team are to be congratulated for all their efforts in developing such a unique program for our College.

Current and Future Enrolments

This year has seen a dramatic increase in enrolments, especially in the Years Five, Six and Seven levels. At this stage of the year we have currently full classes at Years Six and Seven levels with limited places still available in Years Five and Eight.
Parents who have younger siblings entering at Year Seven next year, need to check with Mrs Heather Carvill at the Middle School Reception to make sure they are enrolled for future years. Parents sometimes forget to fill out application forms for their younger children, so it will be important to check that your child’s place is secure. Positions for 2004 will be limited in some levels, but families who already have children in the school, will be given priority.

Parent Involvement

One of our ongoing goals is to develop strong links with our families and to encourage them to become a part of the College community through involvement in such activities as sporting teams management and/or coaching, music support groups, debating support, dance, International Association and College events and fundraisers. As the year unfolds many opportunities will arise for parents to become involved in our College community.
On Friday March 14th, the College will be hosting a social function for parents and teachers at the Mercure Hotel, cnr Gheringhap Street and Myers Street, Geelong from 7.30pm to 11.00pm. Further details are available on your invitation or by telephoning Middle School Campus, Highton. This is a great opportunity for us to get together in a relaxed and informal manner.
Our first formal Parent -teacher Interviews are scheduled for April the 1st and 3rd. However, parents are again reminded that if you have any concerns regarding your son or daughter please do not hesitate to contact your son or daughter’s Homeroom Teacher at your earliest convenience.

Middle School Musical Production 2003

One of the exciting developments this year will be the Middle School production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. This certainly will be one of the highlights of the year. The production is scheduled for Term 3 with performances at the Ford Theatre GPAC on Friday and Saturday 1,2 August 2003. Interested students are currently being auditioned for the major roles as well as for the chorus and dance routines.

Encouraging excellence and character

This year we will continue to advance the Middle School philosophy that students are encouraged to give their best effort and to develop character traits such as care and compassion for others, honesty, servanthood, and to develop an awareness of these values through the consideration of the Christian faith. A solid work ethic which encourages each student’s best efforts is also of vital importance.
One important element of this encouragement is the recognition of students who display positive behaviour. One way will be through Year Level Co-ordinator’s parties. This year a set of criteria, including credits, has been drawn up, so that any student who meets this criteria will attend the Coordinator’s party and be recognised with a certificate. Encouragement awards will also be given on a regular basis to strengthen the value of positive behaviour.
This year the Middle School will be about growing strong relationships with our students, for teachers to demonstrate the reality of the Christian faith, to develop positive character and leadership traits. Most importantly, by encouraging our students, we enable them to achieve their academic potential. I look forward to a very rewarding year together.

Stephen Riddle
Head Of Middle School Campus, Highton.

Junior School Report

Enrolments 2003

The Junior School has had a happy and successful start to the 2003 school year. We have seen over fifty students join us mainly as new Preps, as well as other students beginning in Years One to Four. Our close association with Williams House Kindergarten has made for a very smooth transition of four year old Kinder students into our three Prep classes.
We now have an enrolment of 282 students from Prep to Year 4 as well as 145 children attending our three and four year old Kindergarten sessions.

Junior School Assemblies

With all students participating in the fortnightly Junior School assemblies, all students are made to feel welcome and a vital part of the College family as we share together in the Campus Chapel. I would encourage families to come to the Junior School Assemblies (dates and times as indicated on the published College Calendar) to encourage our young participants and to enjoy the joyful expressions of our faith.

Devotions

Some of the most special occasions at the Junior School are our student devotions in class at the commencement of the school day. It is at these times that the children are able to share with teachers in song, Bible stories and prayer. It is often touching to hear the simple but powerful prayers of the students as they pray for friends, family and the world at large. I believe that these times, together with our daily closing prayer as a class, are an important aspect of our school life.

New Staff

As the Junior School has grown, new staff have joined us and new classrooms have been developed. This year we have given a warm welcome to class teacher Mrs. Sandra Neville to Year 2 and to Ms. Jennifer Beck-Carlson as our Junior Art Specialist. Miss Irene Martin brings a wealth of experience to the team of dedicated staff at Williams House Kindergarten as she teaches three year olds.

Camps Programme

During Term 1 our Years Three and Four will be travelling to Ballarat as a part of their Integrated Studies theme - Gold. They will stay in the Pax Hill Scout Camp and use it as a base as they visit Sovereign Hill, the sound and light show, ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’ and the Eureka Stockade site. This is the first of the camps planned for each year level as the year progresses.

Junior Choir and Dance Group

One aspect of our Campus programme that is enjoyed by many of the children is the opportunity to take part in the Junior Choir organised and conducted by Mr. Smith and Mrs. Elshout. The Junior Choir rehearses each Thursday at lunchtime. Participation is open to students in Years Three and Four. These children perform on special occasions during the year both at Christian College and at community Church services.
Interested students in Years Two and Three may join in the Junior School Dance Group under the leadership of our Kindergarten Co-ordinator, Mrs. Simone Trudgeon. The Dance group look forward to their colourful performances at special events such as the Supercats Basketball half-time entertainment and College special occasions. Rehearsals for the Dance group are held on Wednesday lunchtimes.
Finally a warm welcome is extended to all families new to Junior School. I trust that you will take the opportunities to be involved in the exciting journey in education that your child has now commenced.

Bruce Horman
Head of Campus - Junior School, Belmont

News from Bellarine

Looking Forward

With the new year now well and truly underway, it is great to have the opportunity to communicate some of the recent and future developments at the Bellarine Campus. We certainly have an exciting year ahead and it is a blessing to have the opportunity to be involved in such a dynamic campus. I would like to thank all those families who have offered prayer, well wishes and encouragement as I embark on my journey as the Head of Campus I certainly look forward to meeting with you all during the year. I extend a warm welcome to the new students and families to the College and pray that your time with us will be rewarding.

New Staff

With incredible growth in the number of students at Bellarine and with some staff on leave for 12 months, many new staff members have also joined us for 2003. These include: Miss Tracey Mellington – Prep D, Mr. Andrew Platt – Year 1 & 2, Miss Kristy Krywula – Year 7D, Ms. Debra Singleton – Year 8S, Mrs. Rhonda Browne – Year 9S, Mrs. Hilary Clarke – Junior Art, Mr. Yugi Nakayama – Japanese, Miss Kim Berry – Indonesian, Mrs. Kerryn Fearnsides – Home Eco/Health, Mrs. Andrea Gray – MS Computers, Mr Wayne Durran – Junior Computers and Mrs. Lesley Walters – Classroom Music. We welcome the new staff and pray that God will bless them abundantly in their time here at Christian College, Bellarine.

Growth at Bellarine

Student enrolments continue to be strong at Bellarine, with student numbers just recently increasing to 350 students from Prep. to Year 9. Many year levels are full and only few places remain for 2003. New families and those already at the College should also be aware that enrolments for the 2004 school year are filling quickly. Only a few places remain in Prep. and there are limited places for Year 7, so we would encourage families to confirm enrolments as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
I am constantly amazed at the provisions God makes for growth in the College, stemming largely from the great visions of our Principal, Mr. Daryl Riddle. Under Stage 1 of the Master Plan, Bellarine is set to build 5 new state-of-the-art classrooms this year. This will allow us great flexibility and create learning spaces which are dynamic and engaging for our students. It will also help us to cater for increased enrolments.

‘Back Creek’ Rural 1

The Year 9 girls are currently in residence at our rural campus ‘Back Creek’ in Scotsburn and are having a fantastic time. Some of the aims of this program are to develop in students personal character, responsibility and to learn a variety of new skills. The added challenge of having to live together for 7 weeks also teaches them much about group dynamics and relationships. Having been associated with the ‘Back Creek’ program since its inception, I have seen many young lives changed and the ‘fruits’ of this experience continue to amaze.

Camps Program

Our College Camps Program has started in earnest and provides a wonderful range of opportunities for our students. Visiting a diverse range of environments allows for new skills to be learned, friendships to be made and relationships to be fostered between staff and students.

Parent Support

The Parents and Friends Association comenced the year with a social night, which was a great success. We thank all of those involved in the organisation of the night and the parents who participated. All parents are welcome to attend the Parent Association meetings and we look forward to sharing a productive year together. The financial and physical contributions of our Parent Association are invaluable to the Bellarine Campus.
I pray that God will continue to use us for His purpose and grant us growth in both grace and knowledge in 2003. A life devoted to ‘things’ is a dead life, a stump; a God-shaped life is a flourishing tree (Proverbs 11:28).

Scott Elliss
Head of Bellarine Campus, Drysdale

News from “Back Creek”

From a farming perspective, ‘Back Creek’ has been facing the problems of severe drought similar to other farms in the area. It has affected the girls of Rural 1 in the several ways. They have needed to conserve available water, both on a personal and community level.
New farming skills have been learnt that have not been necessary in the past six years since the establishment of the rural studies experience at Scotsburn. They have been involved in pumping water through extensive irrigation pipes to stock dams across the property.
Feeding quality hay and sileage, as well as pellets to the cattle has needed to be precise and consistent due to limited supplies and high priced feed. At first hand the girls have experienced some of the difficulties faced by farmers and the struggle to keep cattle in good condition in spite of the drought.
The educational programme at the farm has been revised and extended with intensive training in equipment use and safety. The small John Deere tractor has proved a valuable training asset in its flexibility of use for a variety of tasks.
The environmental studies programme is in full swing under the direction of experienced teachers John and Gay Welford. Keeping watch on the quality and supply of water through the local creeks and springs has been vitally important. The history of farming in the Scotsburn area gives the students a real sense of both the continuity and changes in farming that have been necessary over past decades.
The stock of poultry has been increased recently to the current capacity of 240 birds. This activity gives students a first hand knowledge of the consistent work needed to keep up the supply of fresh eggs. It also allows them to gauge, on a small scale, the business acumen and effort necessary to ensure that poultry farming is a financially viable activity at the farm.
In the dairy at ‘Back Creek’ the installation of automatic cup removers has made milking of the dairy herd much more efficient, allowing more time for other necessary tasks.
The kitchen/dining area has been changed to incorporate a new wash-up scullery area separate to the kitchen and buffet area. This allows the students to complete their separate jobs within smaller groups and in specific areas.
Evening activities have involved a variety of guests including the farm owner Mr Howard Williams whose farming anecdotes and experiences give valuable insight into life on the farm. Christian College ex-student Natasha Lum has taken ‘time out’ two evenings a week throughout Rural 1 to organize the girls’ evening activities, both indoor and outdoor.
All in all Rural 1, 2003 has continued to expand the horizons of each of the Year 9 girls who have lived and worked for seven weeks ‘down on the farm’

Russell Barter
‘Back Creek’ Co-Ordinator

Rural 1 girls confidently spreading hay for the cows at ‘Back Creek’.

Physical Education and Sport

Sport and Physical Education presents an essential educational experience for students. Coupled with their academic and social progression, Physical Education fosters the whole development and well-being of the individual whereas sport and active recreational activities assist health and sustain life efforts.

P.E. Courses

Physical education is an integral part of the College curriculum from Prep through to Year 10. The College is very fortunate to have a dedicated and enthusiastic team of Physical Education Teachers responsible for the development of each student’s physical ability and who are dedicated to helping them achieve their personal best.

Skills and Experience

Each Campus is responsible for delivering a particular aspect of the School’s Physical Education curriculum. At our Junior Campuses students participate in practical sessions where the focus is developing key fundamental motor skills. Examples of these skills include catch, kick, throw, leap, strike and locomotion. At our Middle School at Highton and Bellarine Campuses, the aim is to build on these skills by giving students practical experiences in a variety of sport and recreational activities. For example, the throw and strike skills are continually reinforced and perfected through the teaching of sports such as softball, baseball and cricket.
Students are introduced to a variety of sports throughout the year levels in the Physical Education curriculum. The aim at each level is to identify sports that enhance the previously learnt fundamental motor skills. For example, cricket, tennis and softball enhance the skills of strike. Netball, Basketball, and European Handball identify the skills of catch, throw and ball bounce. Coupled with the skill development the Phys. Ed. program aims to develop the student’s physical attributes, which promotes the development of fitness, good health and well being throughout their life.

Leadership and Communication

Whilst participation and skills execution is one outcome, the student’s ability to officiate and coach in a game situation is another. Our Senior Campus enhances and again further develops the students’ skills through the provision of student based ‘peer’ teaching (coaching) and umpiring (officiating) opportunities when the skill is put in to a game situation. The outcomes of this aspect of the program include leadership, communication and student self-esteem.

Sports and Health

The benefits of physical activity and its impact on the health of our students are continually reinforced. It is hoped that through the involvement in the Physical Education program from Prep to Year 10 students become enthused to continue with the subject at VCE level, where both the practical and theoretical aspects of physical behaviour are studied through VCE Units 1-4.

Sports Competition

Through the development of these fundamental motor skills the Inter-School and House Sporting program gives students the opportunity to participate in both school and community based sporting and recreational activities. Our College is a member of the Geelong Independent Schools Sporting Association (G.I.S.S.A) where we compete in Swimming, Cross-country and Athletic Carnivals against other local Independent Schools. Our Primary students are actively involved in their respective Zone sporting carnivals and round-robin competitions. Cricket, Football, Surfing, Surf Life Saving, Netball, Basketball, Soccer and Golf are further sporting opportunities for our students in 2003.
Our College is very fortunate to have three community-based clubs, which gives our students access to local weekly competition in Netball, Basketball and Cricket. These clubs were founded by the College and continue to have a close affiliation with the school, not only through the students playing but also through quality coaching from dedicated staffmembers and parents.
Recently our Middle School at Highton has enjoyed the development of new playing courts for students to enjoy in both a class and lunchtime setting. Plans and approvals have been given to commence sporting facilities at our other Campuses, which has given Physical Education and Sport the vehicle to continue to deliver and further heighten its program. Coupled with the development of new sporting facilities is the news that the College will seek to appoint a Sports Administrator to take over the role of assisting and enhancing the College sport program as well as assisting our community- based sporting clubs.
It is a very exciting time to be involved in Physical Education and Sport at Christian College and it is our wish that all the students embrace and gain considerable benefit and enjoyment from the Phys. Ed. and Sport program in 2003.

Mr Andrew Richardson
Head of Physical Education and Sport

College Bus Transport

History

School Bus travel to and from Christian College has played a large role in the development of Christian College since its establishment twenty three years ago. The growth of the College would not have been so dramatic without the students who come from the wider regions of Geelong.
Many people may ask why Christian College provides this service? Historically, the answer is that when the College first started there were no bus services that could adequately cater for families wishing to send their children to Christian College. There was also a need for students, especially Juniors, to be bussed directly to the College.

Bus Travellers 2003

This year some 500 students will find their way to Christian College via the bus service provided by Eden Quality Services Pty Ltd. Twelve bus routes are offered delivering students to every campus. There are nine services to the Junior, Middle and Senior School and three to the Bellarine Campus. Areas covered range from Anglesea, Torquay, Queenscliff, Point Lonsdale, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Lara, Lethbridge, Inverleigh, Bannockburn, Moriac, Grovedale, East and West Geelong.

Personnel

Mr Brett Hall, our Bus Manager, is a qualified diesel mechanic who has the responsibility to keeping our bus fleet well maintained whilst on the road. Brett has fully completed a “bus accreditation” course conducted through Monash University. The course covers areas such as bus safety and preventative maintenance.
Mrs Yvonne Baker has the challenge of determining the bus routes and ensuring all the bus conveyance information is correct.

Bus Safety

Bus safety is upmost in our mind and there are a number of measures taken to provide the safest possible bus service. The following are some of those measures.

• In addition to bus accreditation all buses have an annual roadworthiness inspection conducted by VicRoads.

• It is our aim to develop bus routes that transport students to and from the College along the shortest route; it is also our aim to have no student standing on the buses.

• All drivers are instructed on bus safety matters and must sign a register that states they have read and understand all written safety procedures.

• All drivers are provided with mobile phones for use in emergency as well as a basic first-aid kit.

• Each driver goes through a check list of safety items at the beginning of each day.

• Student Bus Captains are appointed from our Senior Students who are trained in bus safety so that they can assist the Bus Driver in the event of an emergency.

• By now all parents of bus travellers should have received a letter outlining bus safety matters and information they need to raise with their children.

Government Funding

As from the commencement of the 2003 school year, the State Government has provided a new funding process based upon distance travelled rather than the flat payment of $300 p.a. per child for full-time bus use. This, we hope will provide us with the additional funds to continue our current policy of purchasing a new bus every year in a concerted effort to modernize the College bus fleet.
Chris. MaddockCompany Secretary

Music, Music, Music!

The Music Department and Program are in full swing for 2003! Some exciting developments have occurred giving students throughout the College community a great variety of musical opportunities.

Instrumental Program 2003

The instrumental program across four Campuses currently has 400 students learning an instrument with 40 of these learning 2 or more instruments. We are fortunate to have 27 visiting specialist music tutors who teach individual music lessons and also direct ensembles across the Campuses. Students studying an instrument have the opportunity to take part in Bands, String Orchestras and/or Choirs.
The many ensembles provided give students the opportunity to perform in competitions, festivals and College events as well as to participate in music camps and tours.

Music Tours Planning

In 2003 the Highton and Bellarine Middle School groups will be touring Tasmania in November. In 2004 the Senior School Ensembles will have the opportunity to travel to New Zealand to perform in a National Music Festival as well as performing at New Zealand schools and communities.

Middle School Music Camp

Each year in October a rehearsal camp is held for Middle School musicians at Highton and Bellarine. In 2003 we will have around 150 budding musicians in Anglesea working hard to prepare for the Annual Costa Hall Music Evening and their Tasmania Tour. A very exciting year is in store for the Middle School groups.

Novice Bands

In 2003 for the first time, due to a growth in numbers of music students we have commenced ‘Novice Stage and Concert Bands’. The young developing musicians attending these groups are already making an enthusiastic sound.

Competitions 2003

A huge highlight for the Senior Ensembles is the competition ‘season’ in August and September. Our bands achieved fantastic results in the A Grade sections of the Royal South Street Competitions in Ballarat in 2002 and are looking to keep up this high standard in 2003. The Senior Strings Orchestra has been formed in 2003 as a new group working independently of the Middle School String Orchestra. The Senior Strings will be performing at the Royal South Street Competitions in 2003 for the first time. This group is already establishing a fantastic repertoire and will be providing musical support at the Testimonial Dinner for recently retired College leaders on 5 April.

Classroom Music

The classroom music program from Kinder to Year 12 allows all students to experience the joy of music. For the first time, Year 6 at the Highton campus will take part in a Class Band Program. Each student will choose and learn a band instrument for 12 weeks. This program is also in place at Yrs 6 and 7 for 2003 at the Bellarine Campus. Strings tuition will also be offered to Year 2 students at Junior School, Belmont and Bellarine during the year.
The Senior School music curriculum allows Year 10 students to complete VCE Units 1 & 2, while the Year 11’s are offered VCE Units 3&4 Group Performance Music. At Year 12, students study VCE units 3&4 Solo Performance. The Senior School Music House is a constant hive of activity with exciting levels of performance constantly achieved.

Choral Opportunities

The Choral Program at Christian College consists of a variety of groups aimed at developing the students’ individual and ensemble vocal abilities. There are currently 2 rehearsing choirs in the Junior Schools. There are 4 choirs across the Middle School Campus’ of Highton and Bellarine. At these levels importance is placed on developing individual vocal technique and following traditional methods of classical voice training, Kodaly and Orff based programs are also incorporated.
The Senior Chamber voices rehearse once a week at the Senior Campus. Their repertoire includes sacred hymns and appropriate secular songs with close harmonies. En Masse is a Gospel Singing group who rehearse weekly and share their faith and singing in services at local churches.

VCE Music Results 2002

Of the students undertaking a Unit 3 and 4 Music subject at Christian College in 2002, 30% were in the top 7% in the state receiving a study score of 40 or higher (50 is the highest possible result). 70% of students undertaking a Unit 3 and 4 Music Performance study at Christian College scored in the top 30% of the state receiving a study score of 34 or higher. A number of 2002 graduates have gone on to pursue musical careers in performance and education. One performance student, Kate Martin received an offer of a place from both the Victorian College of the Arts and The Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. Kate has chosen to commence a Bachelor of Performance at the VCA.
Two of our Year 12 Solo Performance students of 2002 have also been chosen to perform in a special concert featuring Victoria’s top 30 music performers from the VCE examinations. On 5 April, Kate Martin, clarinet and Richard brady, Alto Saxophone will perform at the ABC Studios at Southbank, Melbourne.
Congratulations to all our fine young musicians.

New Instruments and Equipment

The Music Support Group is an active group of parents of music students whose mission is to support the development and activities of the Christian College Music Program. In 2002 they organised the College Cabaret which in turn financed a new portable CD player for each campus. A new piano was also purchased for the Senior School Common Room.
At the Bellarine Campus we have been able to purchase a new tuba and to upgrade the percussion equipment. This was funded by both College Capital expenditure and Bellarine Parents Association fundraising.
To commence the 2003 year, the College has purchased 4 new cellos for the Junior School to compliment the growth of our expanding strings program. We now have 4 string orchestras and 70 students studying a stringed instrument at Christian College.

Strings Co-ordinator Appointed

We are also proud to announce the appointment of Miss Rachel Billing as the full-time Strings Co-ordinator. Rachel will be responsible for co-ordinating the strings ensembles at each Campus and will promote the strings program in both Junior and Middle Schools for the future.

Fiona Gardner
Head of Music

Internet Use in Your Family

Some Simple Advice:

Children need parents and teachers to show them how to drive the superhighway. Here are some tips to help you guide your children to click into safety online:

• Spend time online with your children. Check out good sites together. The Internet can be a fun family activity!

• Help your children to use the Internet as an effective research tool - learn about handy homework tips for students and also good searching ideas.

• Be aware of online ‘stranger danger’, particularly in chat rooms. Set house rules about what information your children can give out and where they can go online.

• Put the Internet computer in a public area of the home, such as the living room, rather than in a child’s bedroom.

• Talk to your children about their Internet experiences, the good and the bad. Let them know that it is OK to tell you if they come across something that worries them. (It doesn’t mean that they are going to get into trouble.)

• Teach your children that there are ways they can deal with disturbing material - they should not respond if someone says something inappropriate, and they should immediately exit any site if they feel uncomfortable or worried by it.

• Teach children that information on the Internet is not always reliable.

• Encourage children to treat others in the same way that they would in real life by giving them an understanding of Netiquette.

• Know the best ways of avoiding spam.

• Consider using filters, labels and safe zones.

Supervise of Internet

Set some appropriate guidelines for Internet use and discuss them with your children. Children need parents and carers to teach them how to make smart choices about who and what they find online; how to deal with commercial material; how to safeguard their privacy; how to have a positive experience when meeting people online; and how to use their time on the Internet effectively.
The types of rules you may have made about dealing with strangers and what children can watch on television or video are also relevant to the Internet. There are some general principles that apply to children in most age groups.
Source out Internet Service providers that screen the content before it you receive it. GSAT offers a family service that removes certain content and allows only “acceptable” material to be read in the home. This type of responsible service provision can save lots of heartache. GSAT can be contacted in the phone directory and are situated here in Geelong at Deakin University on the foreshore.

What are my children doing online?

Younger Ones (2-7 years)

Preschoolers can begin to explore the Internet and to learn about the computer. Sit with them and teach them Net navigation and computer skills via educational games on appropriate web sites. (See the list of some at the end of this article) Children from about 5 years may start to visit children’s web sites with you, and to enjoy email correspondence with family and friends (a great way to start learning keyboard skills).
Check out good sites for young ones - you should be responsible for selecting the sites that children in this age group can visit.
Very close supervision is strongly recommended.
Select sites and set up bookmarks for very young users.
Consider using safe zones for this age group, particularly when they start school and can do more on their own.
Limit email correspondence to a list of friends and family you have approved.
Use filters to limit accidental access to unsuitable material.

Students (8-11years)

From around 8 years old children can become increasingly interested in exploring the Internet, chatting and corresponding online. Some older children may begin to assert their independence and look for ‘forbidden’ material. They may be targeted by marketers, but increasingly they learn to recognise the difference between advertising and other material.
It helps to talk to children about commercial information and how to deal with it. Whilst their skills and independence are increasing, making Internet exploration a family activity allows you to maintain close supervision.
Be actively involved in your child’s Internet use.
Emphasise the safe behaviour tips in the cyber rules and discuss why these are needed.
Investigate any chat rooms or online clubs that your child wants to join, to make sure they are legitimate.
Consider using filters to block access to Internet Relay Chat (IRC) and newsgroups.
Discuss use of good cyber manners (Netiquette) just as you do for the real world.
Put the computer in a public area of the home, to help keep an eye on what’s going on.
Use search engines designed for children.

Teenagers (12-18 years)

The Internet becomes a valuable tool for homework and projects for teenagers. At the same time, younger teens start to become more independent and self-assured, wanting more freedom and coming under more peer influence. Their online and email contacts tend to expand. Some may challenge the use of filtering or blocking software and attempt to access ‘forbidden’ material.
Many are ‘Net savvy’ and know about hacking into systems and understand basic computer programming. They are more able to differentiate between advertisements and other material, and recognise persuasion techniques.
Many older teens can write their own programs and know how to manage computer hardware and software. Their use of the Internet includes school research, job and further education searches, global communication and enhancing their technical skills. This increasing knowledge can also get them into trouble if they explore ways of getting around technical tools and methods for breaking into private systems.
Stay in touch with what your children are doing online. While it may become less feasible to actively supervise their access, continue to discuss Internet issues and share Internet experiences.
Keep the computer in a public area in the home. It helps to be able to keep an eye on what’s going on.
Reinforce the safety messages in cyber rules. Younger teenagers in particular should be reminded of the need to protect their privacy.
Ensure teens understand that posting to newsgroups makes their email address public. Have them change their email address if they suspect they are being tracked.
Ensure both you and your teenagers understand laws relating to copyright, privacy, software piracy, hacking and obscenity.

Children and Teenagers Take Care!

Always be alert when surfing the net - you don’t know what’s around the corner.
If something appears on your screen that disturbs you, tell you parents or teacher.
Remember you won’t get into trouble by letting people know what you have stumbled across.
If you hear or see your friends getting into “unsafe zones” remind them of the potential dangers and how to do the right thing.
Keep all personal information to yourself (including photos, your name, the name of your family members including mum and dad, your phone number, credit card details etc). Strangers might use your personal information in a way that you never intended.
Chat rooms are great ways to talk to people but beware that some people in them are not who they say they are. If someone or something disturbs you in a chat room, leave the chat room and find one where there are people you like. Talk to your parents, carers or teachers about getting some advice.
Remember not everything you read on the internet is true. Be smart and make decisions for yourself on what you think is right and wrong.
Be careful downloading files and games, which are free. Sometimes people can trick you into clicking on a link that sends you to an “unsafe zone” or makes your computer download a virus or spyware.
Always seek help from adults or friends. Mum and dad might not know as much about the internet as you, but they know about life and together you can become a careful ‘driver ‘of the superhighway.
Here are some sites to begin your journey into cyberspace:

Kids stuff
http://yucky.kids.discovery.com or http://disney.go.com/park/homepage/today/html/index.html

Human Society and its Environment
http://www.nationalgeographic.com/kids

Maths fun
http://mathgoodies.com or http://www.aplusmath.com

Online Encyclopaedia
http://www.britannica.com

Online Learning
http://www.zoomschool.com/school/Schoolarchives.html

Science and Technology
http://www.sciquestfoundation.org/k12/index.html

Visual Arts
http://homepage.mac.com/krohrer/iad/

Music
http://tqjunior.thinkquest.org/5116

Literature
http://www.ipl.org/

Languages
http://www.quia.com/dir/lang/

Peter Fossey
Information Technology Co-ordinator
Middle School, Highton

Joel Iskra Yr 9 in the Information Technology classroom at Middle School Highton

Christian College Family Fair 2002

Thankyou to our College Community for making our Fair, held in November last year, such a success. Our Annual College Fair has been running for the past seven years. I would like to thank our parents, teachers and students for their ongoing support. My special thanks goes to Heather Smith for taking on the role of Food Co-Ordinator and also to the parents who managed our food stalls.

Use of Funds Raised

The 2002 College Family Fair raised $16,700 which was distributed across our 5 campuses. The money is currently being spent on general items for student use across the different campuses. To date we have purchased outdoor furniture, new tops for interschool sport, a stereo system for ‘Back Creek’ and costings are currently being completed for computer display projectors for the Middle and Junior School campuses.

Volunteers Needed

The team of parents and staff involved in the running of the Fair in 2002 and past years, have been committed to making the event a success. The Fair is one of the few College events that enables our whole school community to work together in support of our College. I believe an active school community is what makes this College very special, but, as with all things in life, we must continue to work at it and not become idle.
For our Fair to continue to flourish, we need to build a more extensive volunteer base. This will in turn, enable the event to grow and new ideas will develop. The Fair Committee encourages input from all Christian College families. A general discussion meeting will be held later during this term. Everyone is welcome.

In Appreciation

A special thankyou to the following people;
Our major GOLD sponsor was Costa’s Pty. Ltd., Geelong whose ongoing support of our College is much appreciated.

I would also like to thank and acknowledge the many hours of untiring effort put in by many parents including: Leigh Dicker, Stephen Davey, Richard Underwood, Lyn Rollinson, Julie-Anne Rhodes, Jeanette Pelchen, Annette Grintor, Donna Wilde, Sue Dicker, Jenny Davey, Penny Dunlop, Wendy Gross, David Coleman, Jenny Johnson, Angela Winkler, and all the stall helpers on the day. Thank you also to the staff from all Campuses who willingly supported this College community effort.

Andrew Dunlop
Christian College Family Fair Co-Ordinator

Lombok Twin School Visit

Families may have noticed on the Term 1 Calendar that our twin school in Lombok, Indonesia has accepted our invitation to visit Christian College from Friday 28 March to Friday 11 April. Throughout last year this visit was in doubt because of the global situation. However, we are thrilled that the connections between our College and SMUN Mataram 2 remain strong and we are confident that this visit reinforces continuing tolerance and understanding at this educational level.
The Senior Campus families will mainly be involved in hosting one of the sixteen students and two staff who will comprise the group visit this year. Christian College is appreciative of the willingness of our families to accept a student from Indonesia into their own family for the visit. Over the years it has been proven that, in these homestay situations, both our families and their young overseas visitors often make lasting friendships as well as understanding much more of the different language and culture.
After this year’s visit from SMUN Mararam 2 one of the Indonesian staff from Lombok, who is currently a teacher of English will remain at Christian College for a further six weeks. He hopes to learn more of the teaching and learning techniques that make up the characteristics of education in Australian schools, and at Christian College in particular.
Whilst they are in Geelong the Indonesian students will visit each Campus of Christian College, including ‘Back Creek’. Our students at all levels will have the opportunity to meet and talk with them. In so doing they will often find that teenagers from other countries share similar ideas and interests, especially in music and sports.
Families are asked to note a necessary change in the schedule of visits to other Campuses, as indicated on the College Calendar. This change was necessary to ensure that our Indonesian teaching staff – Miss Kim Berry and Mrs Julienne Welsh were available at each Campus to assist as interpreters. On Monday 31 March our Indonesian guests will visit Middle School, Highton whilst on Wednesday 2 April they will spend the day at the Bellarine Campus in Drysdale.
As we look forward to welcoming representatives of our twin school from Lombok, we pray that the genuine friendships and understanding that come from such interaction will remain with us all long into the future.

Gwen Prosser
Vice Principal

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Christian College Geelong
Junior School - (03) 5241 1565 - Broughton Drive, Highton, Victoria
Middle School - (03) 5241 1899 - 18 Burdekin Road, Highton, Victoria
Bellarine Campus - (03) 5253 2998 - 40 Collins Street, Drysdale
Senior Campus - (03) 5241 1577 - Pigdons Road, Highton, Victoria
Rural Campus - "Back Creek" Ballarat - Geelong Road, Scotsburn

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