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It may seem unusual to write on sleep. However, I want to share this with you because I think sleep is a learning superpower!
Sleep is often undervalued in our fast-paced society, but its importance, especially for children and adolescents, is difficult to overstate. For parents, understanding the critical role sleep plays in learning and development is valuable in fostering an environment where your children can thrive academically and personally.
The Science of Sleep and Learning
Sleep is a complex biological process that is crucial for brain function. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes information, and clears out toxins that accumulate during the day. This is particularly important for children and teenagers, whose brains are still developing. Research has shown that sleep enhances cognitive functions such as attention, problem-solving, and creativity, all of which are vital for learning.
Memory Consolidation
One of the most significant benefits of sleep is its role in memory consolidation. When children learn new information, whether it's a math formula or a new vocabulary word, this information is initially stored in the hippocampus, a region of the brain associated with short-term memory. During sleep, particularly during deep sleep stages, this information is transferred to the neocortex, where it becomes part of long-term memory. This process not only helps in retaining information but also in integrating new knowledge with existing knowledge, making learning more effective.
Cognitive Function and Performance
Adequate sleep is directly linked to improved cognitive function. Studies have shown that children who get sufficient sleep perform better in school. They have better attention spans, are more focused, and can process information more quickly. Conversely, sleep deprivation can lead to difficulties in concentration, reduced problem-solving abilities, and lower academic performance. For instance, a study published in the journal "Sleep Medicine" found that students who reported getting less sleep had lower grades and higher levels of stress.
The Impact of Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation can have severe consequences on a child's ability to learn. Lack of sleep affects the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for executive functions such as decision-making, emotional regulation, and impulse control. This can lead to behavioural issues, increased irritability, and difficulty in managing stress, all of which can negatively impact a child's learning environment.
Emotional and Social Development
Sleep also plays a crucial role in emotional and social development. Children who are well-rested are better able to manage their emotions and interact positively with their peers. Sleep deprivation, on the other hand, can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. These emotional challenges can create additional barriers to learning, as children may struggle to engage in classroom activities or form healthy relationships with their classmates.
Practical Tips for Parents
Given the importance of sleep, here are a few tips you as parents can take to help ensure your children get the rest they need:
- Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Encourage your child to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate their internal clock and makes it easier to fall asleep and wake up.
- Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Make sure your child's bedroom is conducive to sleep. This means keeping the room cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using blackout curtains and white noise machines if necessary.
- Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Encourage your child to turn off electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime. Ensuring no screens in the bedroom is also a good way to support sleep.
- Encourage Relaxing Activities: Help your child wind down before bed with calming activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing mindfulness exercises.
Joel van Bentum
Principal
Mrs Amanda Rutlidge | Head of Primary
As a parent of teenagers, I can honestly say that I relate to the ups and downs of parenthood! Our precious children are all unique, special, and created in the image of God. They bring us so much joy but also challenge us in ways that we could never have predicted before becoming a parent. At GPCC, we are continually seeking ways to strengthen our partnership with you as we raise wonderful young people to go out into the world and change it for the better. A website that I have always found helpful for advice is the Raising Children Network. There is so much practical advice on this site for parents of children across all ages. Parenting in the social media age is a challenge that none of us have faced before now and it is important that we equip ourselves with knowledge to help guide our decision making when it comes to letting our children engage with media. A great website that helps parents understand what is appropriate for their children to view is Home - Plugged In. This website lists hundreds of movies, tv shows, books, games, YouTube channels and gives advice about their content.
Music Program Concert Evenings
The Music Program Concert Evenings are fast approaching. These are a great opportunity for students currently involved in the Music Tutoring Program to showcase their hard work. These nights are also great opportunities for students who are interested in music tuition to listen to some great music and meet our GPCC tutors. Tickets can be booked at the TryBooking link below. If you have any questions please contact Mr Daniel Friend via email daniel.friend@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
Performance 1:
Wednesday 12 June 2024: 6:00pm – 7:15pm
Students of singing, drums, guitar & bass
Performance 2:
Wednesday 19 June 2024 - 6:00pm – 7:15pm
Students of piano, violin, woodwind & trumpet
Please reserve your seat at our Trybooking link: https://www.trybooking.com/CSGKO
Ripples Schools Program
Last week, the Years 4-6 Extension literacy students attended the Ripples Schools Program at Ourimbah campus. This was part of the Words on the Waves Writers Festival.
Zoey N (5P) has written a recount of the day
"On Thursday, 30 May Years 4,5 and 6 went to Ourimbah Campus for the Ripples Schools and Kids Program which is a part of the Words on the Waves Writers Festival. First the student went and saw a presentation by Tim Harris. He talked about using your imagination and thinking outside of the box. Next, students saw an illustrator called Nisaluk Chantonahom. Students made a collage using all sorts of things like photos, drawings and streamers. Lastly, students saw author, Kate Foster. She talked about how all stories matter and how she wants to make the whole world more aware of autism. Some of her popular books are P.A.W.S and The Bravest Word. I'm glad GPCC has given students this great opportunity."
Congratulations to Juliana L from Year 5 who received 3rd place on the weekend at the Words on the Waves Writers Festival.
She entered a short story in the competition and was announced 3rd in the Years 4-6 division.
Students of the Week
Congratulations to the following students:
Ivy H; KDL, Callum D; KK,Isaac H; KS, Harrison F; 1C,Hamish M; 1G, Maison D; 1PS,Adam L; 2J, Miikè H; 2G,Bourne R; 3B, Kalli H; 3D,Simeon S; 3M, Paige R; 4H,Jamie C; 4M, Jack P; 5B,Thomas B; 5L, Adam T; 5P,Finlay W; 6B, Dylan B; 6SH,Mitchell E; 6S.
You Win or You Learn
Teachers and parents share common goals for the students at GPCC. We all want the students to thrive, be happy, develop resilience, build great memories of school and to learn in a way that equips them for life.
Failure is an important part of this journey. While in the short term we would prefer to not experience failure (or see our children experience failure) the truth is that learning happens at a faster rate if we experience some failure along the way. It is a sign that we are extending ourselves beyond what we can do at this time.
When we protect kids from failure, we are keeping them in the ‘safe zone’ where they succeed at things they already know how to do. To move into the zone where learning occurs, students need to be doing things they cannot yet do, which will lead to some failure.
Failure can also occur through lack of effort, so it is important to keep this as part of the context of student performance. But in situations where your child tries something they find difficult, I would encourage you to celebrate it with them. Tell them you are so proud of them and talk about it as a learning experience, not a failure.
Moving through challenging situations knowing that failing is a natural part of the process will help students learn faster and progress more quickly. It will also develop resilience as they grow in confidence to attempt new things knowing it is OK to not get it right on the first go. This will be an important part of equipping them for life after school.
Music Tutor Concert
Last week we held a Music Tutor Concert for students currently involved in the Music Tutoring Program to showcase their hard work. It was a fabulous night. The students did an amazing job and it was great so see so many parents and siblings there to cheer them on.
If you are interested in our music tutoring program, please contact Mr Daniel Friend via email daniel.friend@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
Bali Life Fundraiser
Last Thursday the Bali Life Service team with the help of Year 11, held a bake sale to raise money for the Bali Life Foundation. Many students and staff baked scrumptious treats and just about every treat was sold! A total of $956.34 was raised. The money will go towards purchasing 5 air conditioners for classrooms at the Bali Life Foundation. Please keep our team in your prayers as we continue our final preparations before we depart on Wednesday 26 June.
Interschool CRU
On Wednesday 29 May students from Years 7-12 attended Interschool CRU, hosted at Wyong Christian Community School, we had around 12 students from our school amongst those from all around the coast. It is always amazing seeing others from different communities joined together in faith. The worship was brilliant, mixing the joyful praise that we have as Christians to the deep, sentimental love we share with our Lord. We were treated to a talk on a well-known bible passage of Peter stepping out on the water, and it’s that story that reminds us of the willingness we need to step out and stand in our faith.
Owen Blair (Year 12)
Upcoming Years 8 and 10 Subject Information Evenings
Students and parents are invited to join us at our upcoming Subject Information Evenings, please see details below.
Mr Stuart McSwan | K - 6 Sport Co-ordinator
CSSA CROSS COUNTRY - PRIMARY
Last Friday 3 May, GPCC were represented by close to 30 amazing cross-country runners at the Primary CSSA Carnival in Sydney.
The rain stayed away for most of the morning leaving ideal conditions for the runners to compete in their races. After quite a bit of hustling and bustling at the crowded start line, all of our athletes were able to find some open space and complete either the 2km or 3km course.
We had a number of top 20 finishes in races that included well over 100 competitors. In addition, we had some teams finish within the top 5 placings overall which is a huge achievement.
A special mention goes to Chloe B who finished 1st in the 8-12 year girls Multi-class race and as a result has qualified for CIS.
Well done to all the runners and a huge thankyou to Mr Gibbins for managing the team on the day and to the parents for making the trip.
Top 20 Individual results
Primary Multi-Class Girls: Chloe B - (1st)
Primary 8/9 Girls: Indy B - (18th)
Primary 11 Girls: Lucy G - (14th)
Primary 12/13 Boys: Ulrich E - (15th)
Dates for your Calendar
School Carnivals
TERM 3 or 4
(NEW DATE TBC) - GPCC K-2 Athletics Carnival (GPCC grounds)
TERM 4
Friday 25 October - GPCC K-2 Swimming Carnival (Peninsula Leisure Centre)
Representative Carnivals
TERM 3
Tuesday 6 August - THACCCSA Zone Primary Athletics Carnival (Glendale)
Friday 23 August - CSSA Primary State Athletics Carnival (Blacktown)
Friday 6 September - CIS Primary Athletics Carnival
GPCC Sport Teams
We are looking forward to sending our teams to a number of Gala Days and competitions in Primary this year.
Students will have a chance to trial for certain school teams over the coming terms and will need to keep a close eye on the notices and listen out for Assembly announcements for when trials will be held.
The protocol for team selection is as follows:
- Teams have at least 2-3 trials before final selection.
- Unfortunately, it is simply not possible for all children who trial to be included in final teams. It is not uncommon for up to 60 students to trial for a team that only has 10 spots available. Due to these limited spots, it is highly likely that students will miss out on making the team. We acknowledge that we have a number of skilled athletes who trial for these representative teams and we strive to give opportunity during trials for students to demonstrate their skills.
- Once teams have been chosen, they will aim to have at least one training session each week before a competition.
Individual Sport Trials for Primary CSSA and CIS Teams (NOT GPCC teams)
These trials are not for GPCC school teams that we trial for 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 Nomination 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.
CSSA and CIS Sport trial dates: Please note these are not for GPCC school teams.
TERM 2
Wednesday 19 June: CIS Primary Rugby Union Trials #1 (select students) - Nominations close Wednesday 12 June
CSSA (Christian Schools Sports Association) Child Protection training and Risk Warning
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#/
Below is a link for the Risk Warning that accompanies all CSSA run events
https://cssa.net.au/risk-warning.html
CSSA State Cross Country
Last Friday 31 May, 32 students represented GPCC at the CSSA State Cross Country Carnival.
The students showed great courage and determination in the way they ran; many of them achieving personal best results. All events were strongly contested and had large fields of competitors. It was a challenging course with a mix of terrain. Some of the students ran so well that they qualified to compete at the NSWCIS (Combined Independent Schools) Championships. Of the 32 students that competed, 15 made it through to the NSWCIS Championships:
12 Years Girls: Lara B – 6th place
13 Years Boys: Levi S – 9th place
13 Years Boys Team: came 1st and will compete at NSWCIS:
(Levi S, M D, Noah W and Xavier W)
13 Years Girls: Alexandra H – 11th place
14 Years Boys: Jason P – 7th place
14 Years Girls: Quinn L – 3rd place
16 Years Boys: Jonathon L – 2nd place
16 Years Boys Team came 1st and will compete at NSWCIS:
(Jonathon L, Tyson S, Zaid A G and Charlie M)
17 Years Boys: Henry C – 5th place, Caleb N – 8th place
18 Years Boys: Daniel d L – 6th place
Congratulations to all of our competitors and all the best with training for future carnivals.
CIS CROSS COUNTRY
Well done to our 12 representatives at Secondary CIS cross country on Thursday 6 June. In challenging, cold, slippery conditions at Sydney’s International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park they all ran there best and achieved admirable results (below). In running fields of around 80 athletes these students pushed themselves as much as they could and all completed their course. Special thanks to all the parents for transporting their children to and from the venue.
CIS Position: Name: Time: CSSA (position)
|
36 |
00:32:27 |
CSSA (3) |
|
|
38 |
00:23:32 |
CSSA (8) |
|
|
25 |
00:13:36 |
CSSA (3) |
|
|
29 |
00:14:10 |
CSSA (6) |
|
|
50 |
00:12:00 |
CSSA (8) |
|
|
56 |
00:12:13 |
CSSA (9) |
|
|
70 |
00:12:43 |
CSSA (10) |
|
|
72 |
00:12:45 |
CSSA (11) |
|
|
51 |
00:13:33 |
CSSA (9) |
|
|
18 |
00:15:37 |
CSSA (3) |
|
|
59 |
00:26:18 |
CSSA (10) |
|
|
61 |
00:25:21 |
CSSA (13) |
CSSA Calendar
Download CSSA CALENDAR 2024
Lego Makerspace
Primary students created amazing Olympic and French themed Lego creations.
Scholastic Book Club - Issue 4
Issue 4 Scholastic book club magazines went out this week. Parents can order online at LOGIN (scholastic.com.au). Issue 3 orders close on Wednesday 19 June.
Guest Author
On 13 June we will be having a guest author to inspire our K- 6 students. Louise Park, a local author, who also writes under the pseudonyms H.I. Larry, Mac Park, and Poppy Rose, is already a firm favourite with our students. They love her Zac Power series as well as her Bella Dancerella and Star Girl series.
Louise will be talking about her books and life as a writer. K-2 will hear more about her D-bot Squad and Zac Power series, Years 3-4 will discover her fantasy time travel novels Grace’s Escape and Grace’s Secret. Years 5-6 will be focusing on her historical account of Gallipoli, Last Man Out.
Students have the opportunity to order her books. These will be signed copies.
You can scan the QR code below to place orders.
Storytime 2024
Preschool story time themes for Term 2 are below. Please register your interest with Nicole van Wyk: nvanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu. See the flier for more information.
Scholastic - Issue 3
Issue 3 Scholastic book club magazines will go out this week. Parents can order online at LOGIN (scholastic.com.au). Issue 3 orders close on Friday 17 May.
Casual Teachers Primary
https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/employment/casual-teacher_secondary
GPCC Alumni, Tim Owers - Archibald Prize Finalist 2024
Green Point Christian College would like to congratulate Alumni, Tim Owers (2006) on the prestigious honour of being a finalist in the 2024 Archibald Prize.
Past student, Tim Owers says "I am thrilled to announce that my portrait of Cortnee Vine has been selected as a finalist in the 2024 Archibald Prize!
The painting, titled 'On the bench and on the cusp (portrait of Cortnee Vine)', depicts the CommBank Matildas and Sydney FC star on the garden bench at my studio. The work seeks to explore the life-changing moment during the Aus v. Fra World Cup quarterfinal when Cortnee was called onto the field, after 104 minutes on the bench, and went on to score "the pen" that will be forever etched into our minds!
Cortnee is a humble, generous, curious and creative person whom I admire greatly. She has arguably become the face of Australian football this year - and rightfully so. She works so hard to further women's football and gives so much of herself to support her teammates. As a sitter, she has been enthusiastic, transparent, flexible, and just plain fun to be around. Thanks for entrusting me to capture you, Cortnee.
The Archibald Prize will be on display from the 8th June until 8th September at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. A huge congratulations to the other finalists, and I'm looking forward to celebrating with you all soon!"
School Bands
Tjudibaring AECG
If you are interested in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, and wish to meet our local community, please come along to the next AECG meeting hosted by GPCC on Wednesday 19 June at 4.30pm. The Aboriginal Education Consultative Group are a community-controlled advocacy group advising the Department of Education.
Afternoon tea starts at 4.30pm in the Primary Library, the meeting commences at 5pm. Please enter from the gate near the flagpole.
Uniform Shop
2024 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
The Munchery Canteen Operations and Menu
Please note: All bakery goods will now be supplied by Bakers Delight.
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 children, 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.
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
Registrations for Term 3, Go4Fun program are open.
Service NSW - Active and Creative Kids
Code Camp
Lego Brick Fair
This community event is being held at Saratoga Community Hall on Sunday 23 June,. All funds raised will go towards the pruchase of an AED (Heart Defibrillator) at the hall.
Firewood for Sale
Contact Brian Shaw at the College on 0404 478 341.
If you would like to place an community advertisement in the Green Point Community Notices, please email details to our Messenger Editor, Justine Collins at newsletter@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
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 10 June
King's Birthday Public Holiday
Wednesday 12 June
Year 7 Incursion with Mr Lobsey - movie and talk
Years 11-12 Drama Death of a Salesman Theatre Royal Excursion
K - 12 Music Program Concert 1
Thursday 13 June
Primary Author visit - Louise Park
Friday 14 June
Primary - Jason Todd CRU visit
Year 12 Society and Culture HSC Study Day
Year 9 Child Studies Preschool visits
Year 9 Mountain Biking Team excursion
Dates for your Calendar
Monday 17 June
Secondary GPCC Aboriginal Students Cultural Trip Brewarrina (17 - 21 June)
Year 11 Biology Field Trip Excursion
Year 12 Experiment Fest Newcastle University (Science)
Bali Team Training (after school)
Tuesday 18 June
Secondary CSSA State Netball Gala Day and Trials
Years 9-10 Central Coast Oztag Secondary Gala Day
Year 10 Courage to Care Seminar
Wednesday 19 June
Year 10 Science & Engineering Challenge
Year 11 Prefect Training Day - prospective students
HACCCSA Zone Primary Soccer and Netball Gala Day (Maitland)
Music Program Concert 2
Thursday 20 June
Prayer at the Post (8am)
Year 12 Geography excursion - Taronga Zoo
Year 12 Ancient History, Modern History Study Day - Sydney University
Years 7-8 Central Coast Oztag Secondary Gala Day
NNSW State Futsal Primary Gala Day -Maitland Basketball Stadium
Friday 21 June
CSSA Secondary Open Boys Football Finals
TERM 2 DATES
Monday 10 June - King's Birthday Public Holiday
Frday 5 July - Last day of Term 2
TERM 3 DATES
Monday 29 July - Students commence Term 3
Friday 27 September - Last day of Term 3
TERM 4 DATES
Monday 14 October - Students commence Term 4
Wednesday 11 December - Last day of Term 4