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Welcome to Term Two, 2023. The first term seemed to fly by and I trust you were able to enjoy some time off over the Easter break. On Wednesday we celebrated ANZAC Day with two services. At the Primary service Conor Macken (Y5) played the last post and did it beautifully. These are important events as we help students remember the past and determine to try to make the future better.
Many of you will recall our announcement nearly 2 years ago about a new administration building. Like so many projects at the moment, this has had numerous delays, but we are hopeful of commencing the project at the end of this term. The demolition of our current building and the new building’s construction on the site will cause major disruption to pedestrian flows around that key area. We have plans to re-locate all staff who work in that area and set up a temporary reception area in the classroom block next to the current building (A Block).
We are also looking to renovate the top floor of the library block to better accommodate our Enrichment team. This will necessitate creating a new space for our counselling team. Our site has some challenges because of the proximity of the bush with a bushfire zone encircling our property and in fact covering significant parts of it. We are working with the architects to find a way to place more buildings on the site that meet the bushfire prevention regulations. As we are near capacity numbers-wise, we now need to be smart about how we utilise our limited space to best accommodate students and all the activities that take place in our school.
Education is reliant on buildings but not limited to or by them. It is what takes place inside buildings that really matters. Recent research has shown how buildings and surrounds can aid learning, but quality teachers are still the key element in successful learning in school. That is why we are developing and enhancing the work we do with our teachers to grow them professionally.
As we partner together this term, remember that good partners are open with each other, respect each other’s roles and are civil even when disagreement occurs. May this term be marked by the strong and healthy partnership we share together to enhance the growth and development of the children entrusted to us.
Phillip Nash
Principal
Welcome Back
It is always wonderful to have the laughter and joy of students returning to the school grounds. I hope that all families had a wonderful holiday break and have returned to school feeling refreshed and ready for the term ahead.
This week in Chapel we were blessed to be able to take time to commemorate and acknowledge the many men and women who have served and are serving our country in the defence forces. Our ANZAC service is a special event and this year our school leaders did a marvellous job in conducting this service.
Our service was made even more special by wo very special additions: the reading of the Ode to the Fallen by Mr Terry Rochford – a member of our grounds staff and a returned Vietnam Veteran, and the playing of the Last Post and Reveille by Conner M (Year 5). Both did a wonderful job, and we are very thankful for the meaningfulness of their contributions.
Mother’s Day Stall & Breakfast
Our Mother’s Day Stall is being held on Friday 5 May. Students may purchase a gift to celebrate the women carers in their lives. Gifts will be priced between $5 and $10. Students may purchase more than one gift, however we ask that families are considerate of the number of gifts students need to purchase to allow for choice for everyone.
To assist in the running of the stall we require many helpers throughout the day. If you can spare an hour, a half day, or the full day we would love to have you. Lunch is provided. Please contact Jane Leivesley on please 0413327035.
Also a reminder to join us on 5 May for our Mother's Day Breakfast. We're looking forward to celebrating the women in our lives who care for us.
Winter Uniform
Students may begin to wear the winter uniform from Monday 15 May. This is the first Monday after Mother’s Day. During the winter months, trousers are no longer compulsory for winter uniform and boys have been given the choice to wear shorts if the weather is suitable. During terms 2 and 3, our hat policy in Primary is relaxed and students are not required to wear their hats our into the playground as the UV level is below 3. Girls may continue to wear the Skort throughout winter and can wear black stocking/tights underneath for warmth.
A reminder that the soft-shell jacket is for sale in the uniform shop and is an excellent source for warmth as an outer garment. If students are cold, they can wear the red jumper under the soft-shell jacket. Students are not permitted to wear hoodies or jumpers other that what is described in the policy.
Updating Bus Details on Parent Lounge
It is very helpful for the college to know which bus your child catches to and/or from school. This information can assist staff know where students are and is especially helpful in an emergency. Please make sure your child's bus details are up to date on Parent Lounge.
The one-minute video below shows you how to add or update bus details.
Please log into Parent Lounge, go to the Student Details menu, then click on Transport – Busways/Red Bus, then Update icon and select bus numbers from the drop-down menu and Submit Changes.
Sporting Acknowledgements
At the conclusion of term 1 our students took part in the Primary Cross Country Carnival. The day was a huge success, with record numbers of students participating in the event. A keen eye could spot Mr Cantor zipping around the course on his Bike and many of our Year 6 students pushing hard to keep up with Mr Brown. Overall a wonderful day of sporting achievement.
Both this day and the Athletics Carnival, (occurring today) would not be possible without the organisation and planning of Mr Mc Swan and the assistance from many of our parent and grandparent community. A BIG thank you to each one for your contributions, building of community spirit that help to make GPCC such an awesome place for our students and of course a HUGE thank you to Mr Mc Swan.
Wondersoft Bread Recycling Rewards Program
Please remember to fill your empty bread bags with other bread bags and bring them into school. Bags can then be dropped into the large PINK boxes outside Mrs Reynolds room (L1) and another Box, near the Kindergarten rooms. The full boxes are , then taken to Australia Post for Recycling. We collect points that then turn into Sports Equipment for our Primary School. This initiative will run all next term. More information about the program can be found here: https://wonder.com.au/wonder-recycling-rewards
Mr Steve Lobsey | Head of Secondary
I am sure all of our students and staff are thankful for a short week to start the term. Getting back into routine is always a challenge.
The reason for the short week is something we also need to be thankful for – Anzac Day was on Tuesday. On our first day back we had a wonderful Service to remember the sacrifice our soldiers have made to protect us. The heroic gestures of people willing to sacrifice their own lives to save others resonates with us as a reflection of Jesus doing the same thing. We should be infinitely thankful for this, especially coming back from a holiday which started with Easter.
So there is much to be thankful for – our school, our families, the teachers at school the sacrifice of our soldiers and our Lord Jesus. Taking time to be thankful is important, not just to appreciate others but increasingly, science is linking gratitude with both mental and physical health – I would encourage you to research the benefits of gratitude if you would like to know more about this. Our brains are wired more for problem solving than appreciation and so being thankful often requires us to be intentional – to take time out of your day to think about what you are grateful for.
Updating Bus Details
It is very helpful for the college to know which bus your child catches to and/or from school. This information can assist staff know where students are and is especially helpful in an emergency. Please make sure your child's bus details are up to date on Parent Lounge.
The one-minute video below shows you how to add or update bus details.
Please log into Parent Lounge, go to the Student Details menu, then click on Transport – Busways/Red Bus, then Update icon and select bus numbers from the drop-down menu and Submit Changes.
Chess Club
Chess Club is on Friday lunchtimes in B1. Come along for a game. Beginners to experienced players welcomed. Mr Wright
Mr David Russell
Curriculum Co-ordinator (7-12) | Student Advisor (7-12)
This week’s Careers Newsletter has information about Year 10 Careers Profiling activity, University guides, HSC and Careers Expos, Construction careers, Macquarie University, UTS and UNSW news, a Defence Force opportunity, information from the Central Coast Group Training talk to Year 10, and photos from the Year 10 Careers Expo excursion.
For more details, please see this week's Careers News or visit the Student Careers section under the "Education & Learning" menu on the GPCC website.
Mr Stuart McSwan | K - 6 Sport Co-ordinator
PSSA Swimming Carnival
On the last day of Term 1 Reef M from 6B went down to the Sydney Olympic Aquatic Centre to compete at the PSSA (NSW All Schools) Swimming Carnival. Reef had such an amazing time having qualified for the final after finishing 2nd in his heat for the 12-year boys 50m Backstroke. Reef was cheered on by all of his classmates and teachers who were watching the live stream of the event from the comfort of their own classrooms. A huge congratulations to Reef who went on to finish 6th in the final. Well done Reef! You are a star.
CSSA Netball Trials
Last term Penny L, Grace B, Sibella M, Ruth G and Lily D from Stage 3 attended the CSSA Netball trials at Northern Beaches Christian School in the hope of being selected for the team to compete at CIS trials. The girls were put through their paces completing drills and practice matches throughout the day. These trials are always extremely competitive with many girls attending the event from across the state. Congratulations to all the girls for a successful trial with Lily D, Ruth G, Sibella M and Grace B being chosen for the CSSA team.
CIS AFL Trials
Last term Lucas M and Toby M travelled to Sydney for the Primary Boys AFL trials. As always, these days provide a great experience for those that attend and are very competitive. Both Lucas and Toby performed really well throughout the day and gave it their all. Congratulations boys on representing yourselves and the College with pride. Well done!
CSSA (Christian Schools Sports Association) Child Protection Training
CSSA have recommended that all adults (teachers, volunteers, parents) complete the following module on Child Protection before attending any CSSA event (trials, gala days or carnivals). Thank you
https://www.cssa.net.au/child_protection/index.html#/
Individual Sport Trials for Primary CSSA and CIS Teams
These trials are not for GPCC school teams that we trial here at school to play at certain gala days throughout the year (as mentioned above). The CSSA or CIS trials are usually held in Sydney and students will be trialling against students from either other Christian Schools (CSSA) or other Independent Schools (CIS) and are usually recommended for those students that compete at a representative level.
Please email Mr McSwan before these dates if your child (Years 5 and 6 only) would like to be considered. They need to be currently playing in the sport and have several years’ experience (preferably at a Representative level): Parents are required to transport students to and from these trials.
CIS Sport trial dates Term 1 and 2:
Monday 8 May
CIS Primary (Year 5 and 6) Boys and Girls Hockey Trials (select students) Nominations close 1 May
Monday 8 May
CIS Primary (Year 5 and 6) Boys Rugby League Trials (select students)
Nominations close 1 May
Dates for your Calendar
School Carnivals
Wednesday 30 August (NEW DATE)
GPCC K-2 Athletics Carnival (GPCC grounds)
Friday 20 October
GPCC K-2 Swimming Carnival (Peninsula Leisure Centre)
Primary Cross Country
Our Primary Cross Country went well. Thank you to everyone who helped out and a big thank you to Jeanie, who showed such kindness and support as a buddy.
Years 7 - 12 Sport Co-ordinator
Congratulations
A big congratulations to the students who were selected in the CSSA Touch Football teams to play at the CIS 15&U Touch Football Championships (5th May).
Congratulations to: Bronte M, Charlie M, Marshall M, Samuel M, and Reid R.
Cross Country
Next week we will hold our Cross Country event for Secondary. Please see details below. It's not too late to sign up!
Date: Friday 5 May
Location: Green Point Christian College
Time: 10:45am - 1:20pm
What to Bring: Recess, Lunch, Snacks, Water Bottle
What to Wear: Full sports uniform including house shirts and hat. Write the student's age (what they turned/are turning in 2023) in black textra on their right leg
Parent Helpers: If any parents/carers are available to assist to guard check points around the course, please email Christopher Harris on charris@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
Parents will need to provide their Working With Children details and DOB to Sue Parkinson at sparkinson@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
How to Register: Students must 'sign up' to register to compete in the Cross Country by Wednesday 3 May.
Students can sign themselves up through Student Café – in this case parents will receive an email asking them to approve their registration in parent lounge.
You will find this on Parent Lounge - Extra Curricular – Activity – Sign Up Now.
*Note you will need to do this for each individual student participating.
If are signing your child up on their behalf - Please follow the same prompts by signing into parent lounge. You must ensure you click ‘Submit to School’ or it will not register.
Individual Sport Trials for Secondary CSSA and CIS Teams
Please email Mr Harris at least a week before these dates if your child would like to be considered for these teams.
Most are becoming open ages and are only considering Year 11 and 12 Students.
They need to be currently playing in the sport and have several years’ experience (preferably at a Representative level):
Parents are required to transport students to and from these trials.
View the CSSA Sporting calendar
Preschool Storytime 2023
Please join us on Mondays for craft, games, and stories in the library at 9am. Parents and carers can register their interest with Nicole van Wyk- nvanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu.au.
Scholastic Book Club
Issue 3 magazines have arrived for Scholastic book club with an updated format, and they are back to a booklet style brochure. Parents can order online LOGIN (scholastic.com.au) until Wednesday 10 May.
GREEN POINT CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
A ministry of Green Point Baptist Church
Our motto is “Equipped for Life”
Casual Teacher (Primary) - Green Point Christian College GPCC | CASUAL TEACHERS (PRIMARY SCHOOL)
Casual Teacher (Secondary) - Green Point Christian College GPCC | CASUAL TEACHERS (SECONDARY…
Angela does an incredible job interacting with new families; cares deeply for seeing students settle in and feel connected; goes out of her way to ensure things run smoothly for new students.
Jacqui actively cares pastorally for our students, especially Year 12. She mentors three prefects and runs a Bible study time for them, often gives up her time off class to sit with students, providing counsel, care, and comfort. She invests in their lives and generously gives of herself.
The Impact & Importance of Fatherhood
Tuesday 30 May from 7.15pm
The Fathering Project at Green Point Christian College are excited to host Geoff Brailey from McCrindle Research who will provide us with insights and encouragement about the impact and importance of fatherhood in Australia.
Geoff’s presentation will be followed by a short Question & Answer session.
This event is for fathers and father figures of Green Point Christian College and Yattalunga Valley Christian School students. However, our College/School fathers are welcome to invite a friend.
For hosting purposes please register your ticket(s) to attend.
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-impact-importance-of-fatherhood-tickets-570194225277
Easter Artwork Competition
Congratulations to all our winners in the Easter Artwork Competition.
GPCC Winners:
Information for parents and students about School Travel
School Travel Passes
Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.
In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.
Please view the PDF flyer below for further information about school travel.
Uniform Shop
New 2023 Uniform Shop Trading hours
Monday: 8:00am - 10:30am
Wednesday: 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 10:30am
Friday: 8:00am - 10:30am
For the price list and further information on ordering through Alinta, please visit our website – https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/enrolment/uniform
Second Hand Uniform Stall
If you're looking for second hand uniforms, you can visit our Second Hand Uniform Stall, which will be open next Wednesday 3 May from 2 - 3pm, located in the first office of A Block (building on the left of the Adminitsration block when looking up the hill).
The Munchery Canteen Operations and Menu
Click on link to access: THE MUNCHERY MENU
All students are strongly encouraged to order online. However, over the counter sales will also available.
Please visit the GPCC website for the link to The Munchery portal: https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/community/the-munchery-canteen
GPCC OSHC Provider - Camp Australia
Parent Lounge Details
The College has a legal requirement to keep our records up to date.
Please review your details on Parent Lounge to ensure that all your information is correct. This includes medical information on your child/ren (only complete the immunisation question if your child is not immunised).
Please note: Should you require both parents/carers to receive SMS notifications, please tick the appropriate boxes.
Green Point Community Notices
Go4Fun
Go4Fun is a FREE 10-week healthy wellbeing program for children aged 7 to 13 to enjoy along with their families. Please contact 1800 780 900.
Run by top trained health professionals, it’s a fun way for kids to build self-esteem and learn about eating well, staying active and living a healthy life.
Term 2 2023 programs will take place at:
Kincumber Indoor Sports Centre Tuesdays 4:00–6:00pm, starting 2nd May
Gosford Olympic Pool, Wednesdays 4–6pm, starting 26th April (Aboriginal Program for everyone run by Bungree)
Lake Haven Recreation Centre, Thursdays 4–6pm, starting 27th April
To register, visit go4fun.com.au or call 1800 780 900.
If you would like to place an advertisement in the Green Point Community Notices, please email details to our Messenger Editor, Justine Collins at
Green Point Baptist Church
Services: 9:30am Worship Service, 6:00pm Service
Services continue to be available online each week.
We are updating our Facebook page regularly with what's happening, so check it out: https://www.facebook.com/greenpointbaps/
Coming Up this Week
Monday, 1 May
Seconday CIS Swimming Championships
Year 10 Careers Incursion - Career Match with Avondale
Tuesday, 2 May
Secondary CIS Swimming Championships
Year 12 Incursion - Avondale Talk
Thursday, 4 May
Secondary AICES 16&U/Open Rugby Union Trials
Secondary CIS Open Girls Basketball
Secondary CIS 15&U AFL Trials - girls and boys
Friday, 5 May
Years 8 and 11 French International Cooking Incursion
Primary Mother's Day Breakfast
CIS Primary Girls Netball Trials
Primary Mother's Day Stall
Dates for your Calendar
Monday, 8 May
Secondary CIS Open Boys Basketball
Years 9 and 10 Art Trip to Brewarrina (8-10 May)
CIS Primary Rugby League Trials
CIS Primary Girls/Boys Hockey Trials
Tuesday, 9 May
Years 9 and 10 Art Trip to Brewarrina (8-10 May)
Year 9 Excursion to Australian Maritime Museum
Year 12 Uni of Newcastle Talk
Year 6 Canberra Excursion (9 May - 12 May)
Wednesday, 10 May
Years 9 and 10 Art Trip to Brewarrina (8-10 May)
CSSA Volleyball Secondary GD 15&U Mixed and Boys
Secondary 18&U Boys Rugby League Trials
Year 6 Canberra Excursion
Thursday, 11 May
CSSA Volleyball GD 15&U Mixed and Girls
Secondary U15 Girls Netball Trials
Year 6 Canberra Excursion
Friday, 12 May
Year 6 Canberra Excursion
TERM DATES 2023
Term 2, 2023
Wednesday, 26 April to Friday, 30 June
Monday, 12 June - Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday
Term 3, 2023
Monday, 24 July to Friday, 22 September
Monday, 2 October - Labour Day Public Holiday
Monday, 9 October - Wednesday, 6 December
Click on: TERM DATES 2024