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The final week of Term 3 has arrived. The term seems to have flown by and we have only three months until Christmas. Term 4 is sometimes seen as a wasted term but for Year 11 it most certainly is not, as they commence their Year 12 HSC studies. HSC examinations are held and for the other years, it is a drawing together of all that has been learnt and some final new topics to cover in preparation for the move up a grade the following year.
There has been much in the news lately about wage and salary rises and the education profession is not immune from this. Public service teachers are in for a big raise and this always flows on to those in the Catholic and Independent sector. While we do not currently match the public service exactly, we recognise the need to pay staff fairly and to take account of the recent surge in inflation which has impacted us all.
The increases for our staff who are paid under the Christian Schools Australia award are not yet finalised and this makes budgeting for 2024 difficult. We will be raising fees more than we have done for some years now but are working hard to keep it at a minimum. Sadly, Government funding of independent schools seldom keeps pace with inflationary rises. Most of our funding comes from the Federal Government with State Governments responsible for funding public schools. Take with a grain of salt much of what you read or hear in the media about independent schools getting so much more money than public schools. Few State Governments keep their commitment to the level of funding they say they will for public schools. Your fees fill the gap we have between what we get from the Governments and what it costs to run a school. Early next term we will inform you of the fees for 2024.
Thanks again to the twenty parents who submitted expressions of interest for a place on the Principal Advisory Group. I have selected this inaugural group with the help of our Deputy Principal, Mrs Jane McLarty and the Heads of School, Mrs Nicole Smith (Primary)and Mr Steve Lobsey (Secondary). The successful applicants are:
Diane Cannone, Sarah El-Moselhi, Shaun Gibb, Kelly Gillen, Andy Macken, Jennifer Rangiawha, Ben Ricardo, Marie-Jean Richmond, Phil Thaux, Simon Thomas, Irene Wardle, Kirsty Young.
To those who missed out this time, do not despair as we will seek to bring new people in each year. The first meeting is being planned for early Term 4 and a record of each meeting will be made available to all parents.
I trust you get an opportunity to have a few days with your children this term break and look forward to communicating with you all again in October.
Principal
As we come to the end of another term, I would like to thank our amazing teachers for the work they have done in planning engaging learning experiences, adjusting learning to accommodate the many students away each day, attending gala days, Wakakirri, camps and excursions and encouraging our students in their learning.
Our students also have worked hard this term, many also battling colds and flu. My hope and prayer for each family is that you are able to enjoy a healthy, fun holiday together. School returns for all students on Monday 9th October.
Hats and sunscreen
As the UV index climbs, so does the potential for the sun to damage our skin. All students are now required to wear a hat whenever they are outside for play or sport and will be asked to remain in the shaded area if they do not have a hat. The College does provide sunscreen for students to apply at lunch time, however we also encourage parents to incorporate the wearing of sunscreen into the morning routine of every child as an important habit. Children are permitted to bring their own sunscreen to apply if this is preferred.
Buses
Several of our students catch buses home in the afternoon and whilst staff do our best to ensure that children board the buses safely and in an orderly fashion, we are unable to accompany them home. I have reminded the Primary students that they are to fill the front of the bus first, as this will enable them to have easy access to the door as they approach their bus stop. As a matter of safety for themselves and others, students must remained seated during their bus ride and students not adhering to these guidelines may have their privilege of catching the bus cancelled.
We are very excited to announce that after many years hiatus, we will be holding a K-2 Grandparents Day on the morning of Monday 30 October (approx 9:30am – 11:30am). This event will take place in Week 4 of Term 4. More details and an official invitation will be issued at the beginning of Term 4.
Collaborative Art & Science Project
I have set my rainbow in the clouds … Genesis 9:13-16
Students began collecting plastic lids from home, during Term 3. They created this mural during National Science Week from recycled plastic. Year 1 painted the background colours and began placing lids onto the timber. Children from all Primary years were invited to help make the mural at lunchtimes, throughout the week. Infants students have learnt to recycle plastic and reuse these lids for a different purpose. By doing so, they are reducing the amount of plastic entering into our Environment. They have learnt to be good stewards of the Earth that God has created and wish to keep it plastic free. Our students are becoming Eco Warriors and keen to tell our School community all about it.
Our 2023 mural depicts the rainbow over the world that God created, His promise to His people.
Student of the Week Awards
Congratulations to the following students:
Sienna A; KDL, Isla R; KK,Zarja B; KS, Ella F; 1C,Willow E; 1G, Ruby P; 2G,Finn A; 2J, Amelia W; 2PS,Evie M; 3B, Ryder G; 3D,Michael H; 4D, Chloe H; 4M,Asher L; 4RM, Thomas E; 5L,Caleb M; 5P, Charlotte A; 6B,Charis M; 6SH, Ellie M; 6S.
Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes
Green Point Christian College have been supporting Operation Christmas Child for over 30 years. This term we will be handing out the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes in Primary school, one box per family in Week 9, Term 3.
Operation Christmas Child is a project of Samaritan’s Purse. It is a hands-on way for you to bless children in need across the world by filling shoeboxes with toys, hygiene items, school supplies, and fun gifts. OCC collect the boxes and distribute them in the name of Jesus Christ to children living in vulnerable situations.
The mission of Operation Christmas Child is to provide God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world, and together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
OCC Shoeboxes are due back at the College by Wednesday 1 November.
We encourage you to start shopping now. For directions on how to pack a shoebox and what to put in it, please click on the link below.
How To Pack A Shoebox - Operation Christmas Child
Mr Steve Lobsey | Head of Secondary
When I was in High School, I wasn’t very good at reading my English novels. It was very rare to have one grab my attention. I did read them – my teachers used to make us write a summary of each chapter as proof – but I didn’t always enjoy it.
- It is estimated in your lifetime, you will write up to 45 million words (more if you write a weekly newsletter article).
- Readers are better at connecting to others. Empathy is a skill readers develop by picturing themselves in another person’s situation as they read; and empathetic people find it easier to connect with others.
- On happiness surveys, people who read often indicate greater levels of happiness.
- People who read frequently on average live 2-5 years longer than non-readers. Paul explained that research shows reading allows a person to transcend their own world as they become involved in the world in their book. This escape leads to lower levels of stress, leading to improved mental and physical health.
If your child is not an avid reader, I encourage you to find subjects they are interested in and have them read books about those areas. Any type of reading at (or above) a student’s level has positive impacts in many areas, including their learning.
Coast Shelter Service
On Monday 11 September some Year 10 students and Mrs Kirk served in the kitchen of Coast Shelter to prepare meals for those who are vulnerable and in need in our community. The students enjoyed a great time of connection while also being able to make a difference. Our school has committed to serving in the kitchen once per month and this opportunity is open to those who are 16 and over. Students can speak with Mrs Gavin if they would like more information.
Mobile Muster
Do you have any old or broken mobile phones lying around at home and you’re not sure what do with them? Mobile Muster is a stewardship program that is reducing waste from the phone industry by recycling old mobile phones, chargers and accessories. To be part of this program students can bring old mobile phones to school, and put it in the collection box, which is in the HSIE staffroom. We will be collecting for the rest of this term. Remember to remove your phone data. For more details visit the website: https://www.mobilemuster.com.au
Mr David Russell
Curriculum Co-ordinator (7-12) | Student Advisor (7-12)
This week’s Careers Newsletter has information about a variety of VET workshops, a Mechanics Apprenticeship and a local Bakery apprenticeship opportunity.
For more details, please use the link to access the Careers Newsletter or visit the “Student Careers” section under the “Education & Learning” menu on the College website.
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
THACCCSA Oztag Gala Day
On Thursday 7 September we had 3 teams compete at the THACCCSA Oztag Gala Day with all the teams performing extremely well. I’d like to thank Mrs Sirone, Mr Brown and Mrs Stretton for coaching the teams and to the boys and girls for doing such an amazing job.
Senior Girls
Last Thursday the Year 5/6 girls Oztag team went to West Gosford to play in the THACCCSA Primary Oztag gala day. After a fantastic performance and much improvement in their teamwork from the gala day the week before the girls were ready for another huge day.
In the pool games the girls came away with strong wins against Hunter CS, Wyong CS and Coast CS which saw them progress into the finals. The girls played against Charlton CS in the Semi's and won convincingly. This led to our final (and hardest) game of the day, the grand final against Belmont CS. We were lucky enough to have had Zara L and Lily D join us for the beginning of what would be a huge day for them, however with the girls leaving for Wakakirri, we entered the finals with only one substitute player.
The final game saw a wonderful, hard-fought battle between the 2 teams. Each try was met with a counter try from the opposition and this eventually led us into golden point- extra time. With only 5 players on the field allowed, the girls played in an intense and exhausting last 10 minutes. Some fantastic passing saw the ball reach Lara F on the wing, who ran down the sideline and almost scored. However, the celebrations continued as shortly after the same tactics and passage of play saw Mia D sprint down the sideline to score.
I am extremely proud of the girls and the effort they put into the day. Their commitment to training was evident as they worked together as a team and showed great sportsman ship throughout the day. Thank you again to the parents and especially to Mr McSwan who organised the gala day!
Congratulations to the 5/6 girls Oztag champions: Zara L, Lanayah H, Lara F, Mia D, Khloe M, Kaelah B, Chelsea S, Penny L, Sibella M, Lily D, Evelyn D.
Mrs Sirone
Senior Boys
Our boys' Stage 3 Oztag team delivered an outstanding performance on Thursday. They demonstrated remarkable improvement since our last gala day, propelling us into the finals. While we put up a strong fight, we were ultimately defeated by a formidable opponent. I'd like to commend our boys for their exceptional sportsmanship, unwavering positivity, and their kindness towards referees and opposing teams.
Mr Brown
Stage 2 Mixed
The mixed stage 2 team played some phenomenal oztag today. I was so impressed by their stamina and determination to play their best.
We displayed some excellent dodging, super sprints and outstanding tags. Winning 3 out of 4 games sent us into the semis. Unfortunately, we went down 3-1 and so narrowly missed out on the final. We had a great day both on and off the field.
Well done to Tommy B, Michael HY, Jake B, James C, Enzo RC, Ryan Y, Zoey N, Chloe L, Josie R, Samara W, Grace G and Maddy G.
Mrs Stretton
CSSA Primary State Biathlon Splash and Dash
On Thursday 26 October, CSSA will be running a Primary Biathlon Teams Event at the International Regatta Centre Penrith. Participants are to either swim for 150m (Years 3 and 4), 200m (Years 5 and 6) or run 2km (Year 3-6). Students in Years 5 and 6 may decide to compete in the individual event too.
It is recommended that students are either very strong swimmers and/or runners to be able to participate. The swim will be held in open water which is different to swimming in a pool. Please consider this before putting your child’s name forward.
Mr McSwan will be putting the final teams/pairs together (a swimmer and a runner) and will let the students know once this is finalised.
Parents will be required to organise transport for their child to and from the event.
If you would like to be considered for one of the teams then please contact Mr McSwan via email smcswan@gpcc.nsw.edu.au places are limited.
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#/
Dates for your Calendar
PRIMARY
School Carnivals
Friday 20 October - GPCC K-2 Swimming Carnival (Peninsula Leisure Centre)
Years 7 - 12 Sport Co-ordinator
Swimming NSW Junior State
Congratulations to Alexandra H who competed at Swimming NSW Junior State Age Short Course Championships last weekend.
She managed three Top 10 placings in 3 of her individual events.
NSW Rugby Union Championships
Last weekend the Central Coast Junior Rugby Union (CCJRU) under 13s representative team travelled to Yamba to compete in the NSW Rugby Union Country Championship Tournament. GPCC Year 7 students Isaac J and Jacob L, who both play for the Avoca Sharks, were part of the representative team who fought hard against teams from all over NSW. Their team ended up placing 4th in the State. Both boys made significant contributions to the success of the team and should be very proud of their efforts. Well done Isaac and Jacob.
Secondary School Sport Calendar Term 3 - 2023
|
Term 3, 2023 |
|||
|
Event |
Date |
Venue |
Convenor |
|
Secondary 15&U Boys Basketball Gala Day Finals |
18/09/2023
|
Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre |
CSSA |
|
CIS SECONDARY ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS |
19/09/2023 |
Sydney Olympic Park |
CIS |
Library Resources
Other Resources
State Library of NSW
Senior Secondary students will find the online journals and curated collections from the State Library helpful for their studies. They have already been encouraged to join using the link below.
https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/research-and-collections/get-library-card
World Digital Library | USC Libraries
ICDL - International Children's Digital Library (childrenslibrary.org)
Picture books from around the world
Browse | The Dictionary of Sydney
Historical resources, first-hand accounts, images, maps and audio files of Sydney
Preschool Storytime 2023 - Term 4
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.
Preschool Story Schedule Term 3, download below.
HSIE Teacher - Permanent full time https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/employment/hsie-teacher
Biblical Studies Teacher - Permanent full time https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/employment/biblical-studies-teacher
Mathematics Teacher - Permanent full time https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/employment/mathematics-teacher-2
Primary Teachers - 2 x Temporary full time
https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/employment/primary-teaching-positions-2
Primary Teacher - 1 x temporary part time
https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/employment/primary-teaching-positions-2
HSC Exam Volunteers
We have an urgent need for HSC volunteers. If you are interested to be a Reader or Writer during the HSC exams, please contact Glenda Fourie at: glenda.fourie@gpcc.nsw.edu.au or 4363 1266.
Dates: Wednesday 11 October to Friday 3 November
YVCS - Principal
https://www.yvcs.nsw.edu.au/employment/employment-opportunities/principal
YVCS - Teacher (full time)
https://www.yvcs.nsw.edu.au/employment/employment-opportunities/teacher
YVCS - Teacher (part time)
https://www.yvcs.nsw.edu.au/employment/employment-opportunities/teacher
YVCS - Teacher's Aide (part time)
https://www.yvcs.nsw.edu.au/employment/employment-opportunities/teacher-aide
Position Vacant: Brewarrina Christian School
Primary Teacher (Stages 2 and 3) - permanent full time
https://www.brewarrinacs.nsw.edu.au/employment/current-job-opportunities/bcs-primary-teacher-ft
Teacher Aide: https://www.brewarrinacs.nsw.edu.au/employment/current-job-opportunities/bcs-teacher-aide-2
Bus Driver - Casual: https://www.brewarrinacs.nsw.edu.au/employment/current-job-opportunities/bcs-bus-driver
Casual Teacher: https://www.brewarrinacs.nsw.edu.au/employment/current-job-opportunities/bcs-casual-teacher
Carla goes above and beyond for teachers. She has volunteered her time to try and help keep the oval clean of rubbish in recent weeks.
Carla was also part of the working party who visited Brewarrina earlier this year. She is a valued member of our staff.
GPCC Phone App
On Thursday 27 July we sent out an email sharing the good news that our new GPCC Phone App is live and available to download.
We encourage you to download your App today if you haven’t already. Please refer to the email from Mr Nash regarding how to download and set up your App.
Click for Setup Instructions
Click for Explanation and FAQs
For further explanation and assistance with Subscriptions, including step-by-step instructions, please click here.
Children's bikes have recently been donated to Brewarrina Christian
School (BCS).
Fundraising Request
BCS now need donations to purchase Tannus Armour tubing ($60 each) for the bikes, to stop thorns getting into the inner tubes.
Donations can be deposited to:
Green Point Christian College
BSB: 082 574
Account: 046 649 788
Description: Bike Fundraiser
Thank you for your generosity.
Save the Date
Uniform Shop
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
Pricelist Update from 4 September 2023
For the price list and further information on ordering through Alinta, please visit our website – https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/enrolment/uniform
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
Munch Monitor Account Settings
To assist the staff at the Munchery Canteen in serving your child/ren, if you have a Munch Monitor account you may indicate your preferences for snack money, a daily or weekly limit, and if your child has any allergies.
Please note that The Munchery Staff are under strict instruction to follow these preferences. Please log in to your account and update these settings if required.
Please download document below for more information.
GPCC OSHC Provider - Camp Australia
Out of School Care is available at the College, offered by Camp Australia.
Camp Australia Spring Holiday Adventure
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
School Holidays free, fun onine educational events
Click on link for more details: FREE ONLINE EVENT – Free family fun with the Parliament of NSW – Parliament of New South Wales
Terrigal Mobile Blood Donor Centre: 20 - 23 September
Pre-book your spot at Lifeblood.com.au or phone 13 14 95.
Avoca Beach Scout Group
Scouts Australia provides young people aged 5 to 25 with fun and challenging opportunities to grow through adventure. With around 70,000 members, Scouts Australia is one of the largest youth development organisations in Australia. What makes us unique is our diverse range of activities that develop skills in young people such as leadership, teamwork, problem solving and communication from the age of 5 years old. For more information download the document below.
Youth Services Spring Holiday Program
CC Spring Holiday Junior Chess Tournament
Code Camp - School Holidays
Kincumber Avoca Cricket Club Registrations
MacMasters Beach SLSC Registration and Information Day
North Avoca SLSC Registration Day
Lake Macquarie Kokoda Challenge - Saturday 14 October
Softball Trials for Decoys Softball Club
Firewood for Sale
Contact Brian Shaw at the College on 0404 478 341.
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.
Coming Up this Week
Monday 18 September
CSSA Secondary State 15&U Basketball Gala Day
Tuesday 19 September
CIS Athletics Championships - Primary and Secondary
Wednesday 20 September
Year 12 Last Chapel
Year 12 Treetops Excursion
Year 10 Fieldwork Excursion
Thursday 21 September
Year 12 Breakfast
Year 12 Graduation
Friday 22 September
Primary Rugby GPCC vs The Coast Christian School
Last Day Term 3
Dates for your Calendar
Monday 9 October
Students commence Term 4
Year 11 Brewarrina Geography and Aboriginal Studies Trip
Secondary Coast Shelter serving opportunity
Tuesday 10 October
Year 11 Brewarrina Geography and Aboriginal Studies Trip
Year 11 Prefects Cru Group Training Day
Wednesday 11 October
HSC Exams (Wednesday 11 October - Friday 3 November)
Year 11 Brewarrina Geography and Aboriginal Studies Trip
THACCCSA Zone Basketball - Years 5 and 6
Thursday 12 October
THACCCSA Zone Basketball - Years 3 and 4
Year 11 Brewarrina Geography and Aboriginal Studies Trip
Friday 13 October
Year 11 Brewarrina Geography and Aboriginal Studies Trip
Year 2 CC Sustainability Festival - Uni of Newcastle
Kindergarten - Amazement Farm and Fun Park, Yarramalong
TERM DATES 2023
Monday, 9 October - Wednesday, 6 December
Click on: TERM DATES 2024