Filter Content
What is … Freedom?
Over the last six weeks we have been tackling some ideas that are often contested within the marketplace of ideas within our culture. The idea for this little series is freedom.
Freedom is a term that on the surface, we all love. How could we not. Isn’t more freedom always better than less freedom? And anyone that is fighting for freedom, must always be working for the good, right?
Well, maybe.
Freedom is regularly defined as the absence of constraints. In our current cultural moment when we hear ‘freedom’, we also are thinking autonomy. Autonomy is the ability for a person to make their own decisions. So, freedom in our context is the ability to make decisions without constraints, we can be a law to ourselves, and we can set our own limits. Or as the Rolling Stones put it “I’m free to do what I want, any old time.” This kind of freedom that we regularly hear about is a freedom absent of consequence.
However, freedom always has consequences, and freedom can often lead to entrapment if not thought through carefully. Think of a train sitting in the middle of a paddock, it is off the tracks and by definition, it is free of constraint. Yet, it is stuck and unable to move, trapped in its own freedom. It is the constraints of the tracks that allow it to move.
Another common outworking of freedom in our culture is choice. The more choice the more freedom. A study was done with the choices of jam, and it found that an increased choice of jam led to increased anxiety and ultimately less jam being bought. Limitless choice is a trap and increasing choice is not the way to wellbeing.
So then, how should we think about freedom? The short answer is carefully. Freedom always has consequences, and freedom is about finding the right kinds of constraints because no matter which freedom we choose there are always constraints and always consequences. Freedom for its own sake needs more.
In the Bible freedom is framed in two ways. There is freedom from and there is freedom for. In Hebrews 5:1 it says, “it is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” This passage is reminding us that it was for freedom that Jesus lived, died and rose again. He did these things so we can have freedom from sin, freedom from our own guilt and shame. Jesus did these things so we can have freedom for relationship with God our Creator, freedom for life in the spirit that leads to love of a neighbour and lives marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Hebrews 5:22)
Here at Green Point Christian College we seek to help students be equipped for life now, and for eternity. This includes helping them understand that there is true freedom in following Jesus. That this freedom does come with constraints, but as Jesus Himself says, His yoke is easy, and his burden is light. And that in submitting to those constraints we find our true purpose, just like a train constrained by its tracks.
Joel van Bentum
Principal
Mrs Amanda Rutlidge | Head of Primary
Choir
Primary Choir will not be on next week. We will take a break then resume in Week 8 to start rehearsing for the Erina Fair Christmas Carols performance next term. More details about this event will be communicated in Term 4.
What’s happening in Science …
This week we welcomed some new critters into the Science room. We have PHASMIDS!
We now have four lovely lady Spiny leaf Stick Insects. Students are enjoying learning about the Insect World, caring for our critters and collecting eggs. Our fish are feeling a little jealous of their new neighbours, receiving all the attention.
1C and 1G have also been studying the night sky, and creating some amazing constellations in marshmallows and matchsticks.
1PS designed and created landscapes from lego, recycling and playdough.
Just a typical, busy week.
Tickets for our Primary Musical 'Finding Nemo Jr'
On 5 September we were able to open additional seating for all our shows.
Tickets are still available for our Friday evening show. There is no ticket limit any more, so we encourage you to bring along the family to these shows.
There are a few seats available (at the time of publishing our Messenger) for the Saturday evening show.
To book tickets please click on this link: https://www.trybooking.com/CUMAM
Last week I was meeting some friends of mine in Bella Vista, in Western Sydney. Twenty years ago I lived in Blacktown and Bella Vista was nearby but I have not been there for a while, so I put "Bella Vista” into my maps app on my phone and set off. I quickly realised the map was taking me on a 9 hour drive to Victoria!
In all parts of our life, it is important to be headed in the right direction. If we have our focus on the wrong things, we will set off on a path that will take us far from where we are meant to be. In society, we can be led to believe the ‘right direction’ is to pursue things such as a particular standard of lifestyle, money, or career success. It is important to not see these as destinations to work towards. They are all temporary things that will not bring true fulfillment.
A lasting destination is to have the eternal security, hope and comfort in Jesus. Unlike the map, we do not have to figure out how to get to Him. He IS the way. And if we follow him, we can trust that with the other parts of the journey (lifestyle, money, career) we will be where we are meant to be.
Secondary LIFE
We had a wonderful time during Secondary LIFE this week. Our Year groups were split up across the school and we were able to hear from a number of different speakers.
Years 7 and 8 were visited by local member, Liesl Tesch. Liesl shared her story and students were able to hold the paralympic medals that she won in basketball and sailing. She was so inspiring!
Year 9 heard from Headspace who shared some great tips on dealing with stress and anxiety. We hope that students might be able to implement some of the strategies that were shared.
Two speakers from The A21 Campaign visited Years 10 and 11 to highlight the issue of modern-day slavery and this was a very impacting talk. We hope that students might have gained an insight into the brokenness of our world and the action they can take to be a redemptive influence.
Finally, Year 12 had some valuable time together to prepare for their final Year 12 chapel which is just a few weeks away.
Secondary Indigenous Literacy Day
Students are invited to wear indigenous colours (black, red, yellow) or book character costumes on Wednesday 11 September for our Secondary Indigenous Literacy Day.
A gold coin donation for mufti will go towards sporting equipment for Brewarrina Christian School. Students are reminded to wear appropriate clothing- enclosed shoes, no mid-rift, no thin straps, or low necklines. As a school we do not endorse witchcraft or violence. No scary costumes, witches, wizards, weapons, or vampires please. Our teachers are going to put on a reader’s theatre during LIFE and we will have some guests on the day.
Year 9 Camp
From the 28 - 30 August our Year 9 students attended camp at the picturesque Crusaders' site on Lake Macquarie. They took part in exciting activities such as sailing, rock climbing, canoeing, and fishing, along with various team-building exercises. A highlight was the night spent camping under the stars, where students enjoyed a campfire and toasted marshmallows. The camp was a wonderful opportunity for students to forge new friendships and strengthen existing ones. A heartfelt thank you to all the staff who helped make this an unforgettable experience for our students.
Mr Stuart McSwan | K - 6 Sport Co-ordinator
Dates for your Calendar
School Carnivals
TERM 3
Wednesday 25 September - GPCC K-2 Athletics Carnival (GPCC grounds)
TERM 4
Friday 25 October - GPCC K-2 Swimming Carnival (Peninsula Leisure Centre)
Representative Carnivals
TERM 3
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.
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
On Wednesday 5 September our Junior and Senior Boys Basketball teams travelled to the basketball stadium at Broadmeadow to compete in the annual THACCCSA gala day.
The Junior boys team were in division 1 and were able to win 4 out of 5 games to actually come first in the division and proceed straight to the grand final. In a hard fought seesawing match the score at full time was 27 all! In the 3 minutes of timed overtime, Green Point ran out victorious 35 – 27. Well done to all the boys who now proceed to the CSSA day on 20 September.
Similarly, the Senior boys won their 4 pool games but then had a very tough game, narrowly winning their semifinal. So, they were up against Charlton in the grand final and were able to prevail 26 – 18. So, congratulations to the Senior boys team who are now off to state next Friday 13 September. Special mention and thank you to the parents that came to cheer on the teams and also score the games.
On Wednesday 4 September two girls futsal teams travelled to Maitland Federation Centre to represent in the CSSA Competition.
Our junior girls coached by Mr Read had a solid day progressing to the semi-finals with 2 wins and 2 losses. The girls entered the game with a lot of energy and focus to progress into the Grand Final, but sadly lost. Mr Read was very proud of each of the girls efforts, and is confident that they will continue to improve with time.
Our Opens team coached by Mr Partridge had very similar results to our u15s team, progressing to the semis with 2 wins and 2 losses. We entered the game eagerly and created many chances early on, but didn’t convert. As the game progressed and we pushed hard for a result, we sadly conceded and bowed out of the finals. The girls gave it their all and came away proud of their efforts. Congratulations to Aliyah I and Sophee U, who were scouted to represent in the Nationals tournament in Queensland later in the year.
Sporting Dates
THACCCSA Mixed Oztag Gala Day: Wednesday 11th September Adcock Park West Gosford
CSSA Secondary Open Boys & Girls Basketball Gala Day Finals: Friday 13th September
CSSA Secondary 15&U Boys & Girls Basketball Gala Day Finals
CIS Secondary Athletics Championships: Tuesday 24th September
Premier’s Reading Challenge
240 students completed the Premiers Reading Challenge in Primary out of 469 students = 51% . Down a little on previous years but still a good result, particularly in earlier grades. In Secondary 13 students completed the PRC.
|
YEAR GROUP |
NUMBER OF STUDENTS FINISHED |
|
Kindergarten |
59 |
|
Year 1 |
62 |
|
Year 2 |
48 |
|
Year 3 |
51 |
|
Year 4 |
2 |
|
Year 5 |
10 |
|
Year 6 |
8 |
|
Year 7 |
9 |
|
Year 8 |
2 |
|
Year 9 |
2 |
|
TOTAL |
253 |
Secondary Indigenous Literacy Day
Students are invited to wear indigenous colours (black, red, yellow) or book character costumes on Wednesday 11 September for our Secondary Indigenous Literacy Day.
A gold coin donation for mufti will go towards sporting equipment for Brewarrina Christian School. Students are reminded to wear appropriate clothing- enclosed shoes, no mid-rift, no thin straps, or low necklines. As a school we do not endorse witchcraft or violence. No scary costumes, witches, wizards, weapons, or vampires please. Our teachers are going to put on a reader’s theatre during LIFE and we will have some guests on the day.
Scholastic Book Club- Issue 6
Issue 6 Scholastic book club magazines went out this week. Parents can order online at LOGIN (scholastic.com.au).
Issue 6 orders close on Wednesday 11 September.
Term 3 Storytime
Preschool story time themes for Term 3 are below. Please register your interest with Nicole van Wyk: nvanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu. See the flier for more information.
Casual Teachers Primary https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/employment/casual-teacher-primary
Teaching Positions - Permanent Full time (2025)
https://www.yvcs.nsw.edu.au/employment/employment-opportunities/teacher
Tjudibaring AECG Meeting
Next Wednesday 11 September there is an AECG meeting at Brisbania Public School. Please see the invitation for more information.
Tjudibaring AECG Awards
Nominations are now open for students to receive an award at the Tjudibaring AECG Awards night, Thursday 14 November at Erina High School. If you would like to inform the school about an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student who has excelled in one of the following categories.
- Cultural Participation
- Community and Citizenship
- Creative Arts
- Performing Arts
- Academic Achievement
- Leadership
- Sporting Achievement
- Project Participation/ Community Project
- Dedication to learning
- Pursuit of Personal best
There is also teacher, staff and community member contribution awards. Please email nvanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu.au by Wednesday 11 September if you would like to make a recommendation.
Staff Member of the Week
We would like us to congratulate and acknowledge the willingness of Lauren to take on an additional Stage 6 French class (for Term 3), alongside her Stage 6 Maths and Stage 6 Biology Classes, in her third year of teaching and alongside her Year Advisor Role (and in her first year of marriage).
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.
Rocketeers - Spring School Holiday Bookings Now Open.
At Green Point Christian College (Monday 30 September - Friday 11 October). - Camp Australia OSHC | Green Point Christian College (gpcc.nsw.edu.au)
Celebrate Camp Australia’s 30-Year Anniversary
On Tuesday 10 September 2024, we invite the entire Green Point Christian College community to join us at Your OSHC for an unforgettable celebration.
What’s in store:
- DIY Friendship Bracelets
- Ball in a Cup
- Pass The Parcel
- Egg & Spoon Races
- And yes, CAKE!
Enjoy an afternoon of fun, food, and festivities. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Download flye below for more information.
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
Free Family Fun at the Parliament of New South Wales
Friday 11 October 9:30 am to 3:00 pm
Visit us at Australia’s oldest Parliament as it opens its doors for Family Fun Day, an open day packed with fun educational activities for families with children aged from 4 to 12 years. This year’s highlights include:
- Visiting our heritage chambers
- Giving a speech for an election campaign
- Participating in a committee role play
- Enjoying live music
- Making craft animals and objects
- Learning how to vote
Entry is free and the event will be held at NSW Parliament, 6 Macquarie Street Sydney. Please use this link to search for directions and public transport options to Parliament House.
Bookings Essential
https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/visit/events/Pages/Family-Fun-Day-2022.aspx
P: (02) 9230 2047
E: dps.education@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Terrigal Mobile Blood Donor Cente
Got a bit of time next week? Time to give blood and change lives? 1 in 3 people in Terrigal will need blood, and they need people like you to give it. We’re rolling into town on 18 to 21 September. Don’t forget to pre-book your spot at Lifeblood.com.au, on our app or on 13 14 95.
Wednesday 18 September - 12.30 to 6.45pm
Wednesday 19 September - 12.30 to 6.45pm
Thursday 20 September - 8.00am to 2.15pm
Friday 21 September - 8.00am to 2.15pm
Rotary Park, 214 Terrigal Drive, TERRIGAL NSW 2260
Scripture Union - Inspire Art Camp 2024
29 September - 2 October
For more information visit click on this link.
PCYC Umina Beach - Safer Drivers Course
Go4Fun Term 4 - Registrations Open
Gosford Regional Gallery - School Holiday Art Classes
Woytopia Sustainable Living Festival
Sunday 13 October at Woy Woy South School. 9am-4pm. Music, Eco Market, Wildlife shows, Green Talks, Kid's fun.
Woy Woy Water Polo Club - Come and Try Days
ANZAC Flag Bearer Recruitment
North Avoca SLSC Registration
Kincumber - Avoca Cricket Club
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 9 September
Secondary RU OK Awareness - Prefect at Assembly
Year 12 History Extension Zoom Lecture
Tuesday 10 September
THACCCSA Zone Primary Oz Tag Central Coast (Adcock Park)
Wednesday 11 September
7-12 Secondary Indigenous Literacy Day
Secondary THACCSA Mixed Oztag Gala Day
Thursday 12 September
Secondary RUOK? Day
Friday 13 September
Secondary CSSA Sec Open Basketball Gala Day Finals
Year 9 PASS Gymnastics Excursion
Year 2 Excursion - Sustainable Futures Festival, The Entrance
Year 3 Excursion - Walkabout Park Wildlife Sanctuary
Dates for your Calendar
Monday 16 September
Years 7-10 and year 12 Incursion - Speaker, Reggie Dabbs
Wednesday 18 September
Year 2 Excursion- Bulgandry Aboroginal Art Site
Thursday 19 September
Year 6 (selected students) - Write a Book in a Day Incursion
Friday 20 September
CSSA Secondary 15&U Basketball Gala Day Finals
Year 9 PASS Gymnastics Excursion
Year 10 Visual Design and Visual Art Big Design Market Excursion
Year 9 MTB Mountain Biking Team excursion
K - Year 6 Mufti Day (for sponsor children)
Year 1 Excursion to Grace Spring Farm
2024 TERM 3 DATES
Friday 27 September - Last day of Term 3
2024 TERM 4 DATES
Monday 14 October - Students commence Term 4
Wednesday 11 December - Last day of Term 4