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“Mathematics is objective.” “Just show me the numbers and then we will have an answer.” “You can’t argue with the data.” “The numbers don’t lie.” “The numbers are neutral.”
How often have you heard one of the above phrases or something like it? If you have, then you have likely stumbled across the wonderful - if often misunderstood - world of Mathematics. In our society we often hear the idea that Mathematics is objective and untarnished by “subjective opinion”. This is often said in an effort to remove Mathematics from critique and to place it on an incorruptible plane.
This perceived neutrality and incorruptibility has led to it being referred to as the ‘queen of Sciences’. Does Mathematics deserve this kind of holy treatment? The answer to this is clearly “no.” Mathematics is not neutral or incorruptible. It is in fact highly influenced by worldview perspectives and is regularly used as a tool to support particular points of view. Consider the following quotes:
Mathematical objects exist in a realm transcending human experience – Plato
1 + 1 = 2 is, like all truths of Mathematics, an eternal and necessary truth, which would not be affected even if the whole world were destroyed and there were no one to count and no objects to be counted - Gottfried Leibniz
Mathematics is the alphabet of the universe - Galileo Galilei
Mathematical symbols stand for nothing ... 1 + 1 = 2 is merely a tool or a formula that happens to work – John Dewey
Each of the above quotes creates mathematical meaning out of their own worldview. For some like Plato and Leibniz, Mathematics is transcendent, immutable and eternal. This is clearly still a popular understanding.
For others like Dewey, mathematical meaning is simply a construction by mathematicians and remains useful only as long as it holds meaning for the people who use it.
A Christian worldview would suggest that generally our response to Mathematics is closest to Galileo. We see Mathematics as being like a language that is used to describe God’s creation. It is a rich and glorious language that God has given to us to help us describe His creation. Mathematics is not consistent because of itself, rather it is consistent because God is consistent and His creational laws are consistent, Mathematics is complex because God is complex. Mathematics continues to evolve as we uncover and unfold more of God’s creation.
At Green Point Christian College, we endeavour to help students understand not only the skills of Mathematics, but also the purpose and beauty of Mathematics - as it points us towards the Creator, gives us a glimpse of His steadfastness, and the language of His beautiful, intricate creation.
Joel van Bentum
Principal
Mrs Amanda Rutlidge | Head of Primary
Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes
A huge thank you to all the students and their families from GPCC and YVCS that contributed to our tally of 340 shoeboxes being collected this year. Thank you to our Years 3 and 4 students for your help and enthusiasm in passing and packing all of the shoeboxes into the truck. These shoeboxes will be distributed to children in Ukraine, Vietnam and Cambodia. Mrs Davis and our students prayed for the safe delivery of each of the boxes, and for the children who will be receiving these precious gifts.
On Tuesday 22 October our K-2 students travelled to The Art House Wyong to watch a live performance of the story, The Gruffalo. It was such a wonderful show that we all enjoyed.
What’s happening in Science this Week
In Science this term students are exploring ‘Materials and their properties’.
Kindy are investigating what things are made from, with a close up look through magnifying lenses.
Year 1 are sorting materials and how they can be changed.
Year 2 are mixing materials to create new objects. The highlight this week was making Lava lamps using only four ingredients.
The students continue to work collaboratively, creatively and curiously as they explore the amazing world that God has created. Their sense of awe and wonder has been evident this week as they discover, and enjoy the ‘Ahhh’ moments.
Infants Science
Last week all K-2 students were involved in the ‘Aussie Bird Count’. This is a Citizen Science Project run by Birdlife Australia. This involved the students observing, counting and recording the birds at GPCC throughout the day. Students counted for 20 minutes and submitted information through the Aussie Bird Count App. We didn’t need to be experts, we just needed enthusiasm.
“The Aussie Bird Count aims to engage school communities in the natural world while getting to know the birds in their local schoolyard through participation in a simple, fun, all-ages activity that can be done anywhere.
Citizen science creates opportunities for students to connect with the natural world, gain scientific skills, and learn about topics such as life cycles, habitats, adaptations, and interrelationships. This can be a gateway to many exciting discoveries and creates a partnership between the students and professional scientists to help answer questions scientists couldn’t answer on their own.”
‘Eyes to the skies’ was the refrain the students heard . They really enjoyed this experience and gained useful, hands-on, learning about the birds that inhabit our school environment.
Primary School Run Club — a fun and energetic way for students in Grades 2-6 to start their Friday mornings. Whether your child is an experienced runner or just looking to try something new, our Run Club is a fantastic opportunity to get active, build fitness, and enjoy the outdoors with friends. And let's be honest – running is awesome.
Our sessions are held every Friday morning from 8:00-8:20 AM on the front oval, where students will participate in stretching, running, and fun activities. We also offer incentives like certificates and small prizes to keep everyone motivated.
Primary Run Club has been a great success over Term 3 and will continue into Term 4.
Sign up available via Parent Lounge. (Existing club members must re-sign for Term 4)
Please note that we cannot accept spontaneous drop-ins on the day; permission must be given in advance.
Sewing Volunteers Needed
We are hoping some volunteers can help us mend some costumes that will mean they last for years to come.
We are looking for people who can sew to take a small bundle of 10 home to sew the edges of the costumes. A sewing or overlocker machine in needed.
If you can help with this, please email Mrs Rebecca McKeown
Students of the Week
Noah B; KDL, Jayden D; KK,Stella D; KS, Isla T; 1C,Judy R; 1G, Juliet H; 1PS,Harry M; 2J, Rachel B; 2G,Cooper B; 3B, Joel F; 3D,Daniel S; 3M, Jude B; 4H,Christian N; 4H, Annie B; 4M,Jack M; 5B, Elsie H; 5L,Luka M; 5P, Lachlan P; 6B,Leyla H; 6SH, Liam B; 6S.
Our theme for Term 4 in the Secondary School is Generosity. We are encouraging students to consider how they can be generous to others with their resources – whether that be money, time, thoughts or anything else.
Ignatius of Layola wrote a prayer for generosity:
Lord Jesus, teach me to be generous.
Teach me to serve as you deserve,
To give and not to count the cost,
To fight and not to heed the wounds,
To labour and not to seek to rest,
To give of myself and not ask for a reward,
Except the reward of knowing that I am doing your will.
Generosity is not easy – I believe most people would like to be more generous, but they find it difficult because of what it would cost them. Ignatius here prays that he would be willing “To give and not to count the cost”. This term we will be asking students to find ways they can be generous and focus on the positives of helping others and to be willing to not count the cost of doing so.
Academic Excellence
On Monday 21 october some of our talented young men, currently in Year 11 (L to R: Clinton F, Hugh D, Daniel K, Josh R), sat for their Year 12 Mathematics Advanced HSC Exam. These students only began their accelerated Maths program when they were in Year 10 during Term 4, and have completed both Years 11 and 12 Advanced Maths in one year. Credit to these young men on their astute effort and incredible work ethic over the past year and to Mr James Wright who facilitated their acceleration in Mathematics.
Year 9 AIM Mission Trip - 25 October - 1 November
Our Year 9 Girls AIM Mission trip headed off early on Friday 25 October. Please be in prayer for the team.
Team: Eva L, Sienna F, Anna-Lucia R, Mia W, Arabella C, Amelia M, Lilly B, Ayla D, Lucy W, Abbey S, Jemima N, Olivia Filo (Ex student), Mrs Zoe Anderson and Mr Andrew McGillivray
Respectful Relationships Program for Teens
Our Year 7 students will be attending the LOVE BiTES program on Tuesday 29 October. It is a National, respectful relationships program created by NAPCAN.
The LOVE BiTES program is for all students aged between 11 and 17 years. The program brings awareness to our young people about healthy relationships and what they look like.
The LOVE BiTES program promotes a clear, consistent community approach to relationships.
LOVE BiTES has been running on the Central Coast since 2008, the success of the program is due to the community partnerships and funding from the Department of Social Services.
The program aims to be delivered to all schools on the NSW Central Coast and to raise awareness about healthy and respectable relationships.
If you would like to speak to the Year Advisors for more details about this program, please email Mrs Georgina Kratochvil or Mr Dane Roberton
Praying for Year 12
We continue to pray for all our Year 12 students who are completing their HSC Exams.
Enrolment in 2025
To assist with our planning would you kindly notify us if you have already decided that your child will NOT be continuing at the College in 2025. Please advise in writing via registrar@gpcc.nsw.edu.au only if your child’s enrolment will be changing for 2025.
Please note, as per Green Point Christian College's Enrolment Conditions, you must give 10 weeks’ term time notice in writing to the Registrar prior to withdrawal. Without this notice, 10 weeks’ fees + GST will be charged for each student enrolment being withdrawn. This amount is a genuine pre-estimate by the College of the loss that it would suffer due to insufficient notice.
Mr Stuart McSwan | K - 6 Sport Co-ordinator
HCZS Year 5/6 Basketball
Senior Boys
The Years 5/6 boys basketball team recently had an exciting time representing the school at our HCZS (zone) gala day. The day kicked off with a tough loss to Maitland, but the team quickly found their rhythm, securing dominant wins in the rest of the pool matches to earn a spot in the semi-finals. In a thrilling semi-final, John’s buzzer-beater clinched the victory, sending the team to the Grand Final for a rematch against Maitland. Despite a proud effort, Maitland proved too strong in the second half, and the boys finished as runners-up. We are incredibly proud of their performance and the way they represented the College.
Mr Sneyd
Senior Girls
Congratulations to the Senior Girls Basketball Team on an impressive performance at the Hunter Zone Basketball Gala Day. The girls demonstrated exceptional teamwork, executing quick passes, accurate shooting, and strong rebounding skills throughout the tournament. Their defence was tight, allowing them to secure 2 out of 3 pool game victories, which propelled them into the Semi-Finals against Belmont. Despite a heart-wrenching loss by just 1 point, they displayed resilience and adaptability on the court, learning valuable new skills along the way. It was inspiring to see them give 100% effort in every possession. Well done to Piper L, Willow H, Isla C, Amelia S, Summer G, Isabelle A, Josie R, Eve H, and Evie N. Keep up the great work girls.
Miss Cooper
Thank you to both Mr Sneyd and Miss Cooper for training the teams and taking them to the gala day.
CSSA Cricket Knockout Comp
On Wednesday 23 October the Senior cricket team travelled to Singleton to compete against Belmont Christian and Carinya Christian in two games of 15/15 cricket.
Our first game against Belmont was a hard-fought battle with GPCC being sent into bat and after losing an early wicket they were able to steady the ship and score 75…ish runs with top scorer Caleb M having to retire on 30. We played a good game against Belmont in all facets of the game for them to reach our total with 8 balls remaining. A valiant effort from the team with two catches to No Balls proving costly.
Our second game against Carinya proved an easier match with our bowlers putting on a superb display, bowling Carinya out for 28 runs. This meant albeit a low target to reach that GPCC had to be at the top of their game. Some excellent batting by Zara L and others saw us reach the total convincingly to claim an important and well-deserved win.
Well done to Andries dK, Andrew S, Zara L, James G, Ruben D, Conor M, Harry D, Henry H, Caleb M, Liam B and Ethan A.
Also, a huge thank you to Mr Brown for helping to coach and train the team.
Mr McSwan
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 TERM 4
School Carnivals and other important events
Monday 11 November - Year 3 Surf Safety Day (Terrigal Beach)
Tuesday 12 November - Year 4 Surf Safety Day (Terrigal Beach)
Thursday 14 November - Year 5 Surf Safety Day (Terrigal Beach)
Friday 15 November - Year 6 Surf Safety Day (Terrigal Beach)
Wednesday 11 December - Year 3-6 Last Day at Umina Beach
Wednesday 6 December - K-2 Fun Day on School Oval
Mr Chris Harris | Years 7 - 12 Sport Co-ordinator
State Basketball Competition Success
On Friday 20 September our Junior Boys Basketball team participated in the State Basketball Competition held at Cambridge Park, following their victory at the THACCCSA Zone Gala Day a few weeks ago. The team had an impressive start, securing decisive wins against Wagga Wagga and Pacific Hills. Unfortunately, in a closely contested match, they were narrowly defeated by Shire CS with a score of 23-21.
Despite this setback, GPCC topped their pool and advanced to the Semi-Finals, where they faced off against Coffs Harbour, winning convincingly with a score of 30-14. The Grand Final saw our team competing against Tyndale, where they emerged victorious with a 34-29 scoreline, claiming the title of the 2024 CSSA Junior Boys State Basketball Champions.
This outstanding achievement is a testament to the hard work and sportsmanship demonstrated by all the players. A special thank you to the parents who attended to support, cheer, and assist with bench duties.
Congratulations to the entire team on their remarkable success.
CIS Douglas Shield - Round 1: GPCC vs. Arndell Anglican College
On Monday 21 October our Open Boys Cricket team faced Arndell Anglican College at McGraths Hill for the first round of the CIS Douglas Shield, a 50-over-per-side match.
Arndell won the toss and chose to bat, posting a competitive total of 266. Our standout bowlers, Charlie M, Raj S, and Scarlett S, were pivotal in taking key wickets. Jacob G also deserves special mention for his excellent work as wicketkeeper, keeping things tight behind the stumps.
In response, GPCC got off to a solid start, maintaining the required rate of 5 runs per over. Jacob G and Charlie M contributed significantly, but it was captain Raj S who anchored the innings with a masterful century, scoring 108 runs.
As the match neared its conclusion, GPCC needed just 10 runs with 2 wickets in hand. Lachlan H rose to the occasion, sealing the win with a spectacular six, ensuring a thrilling victory that the team will remember for a long time.
Congratulations to the entire team on their memorable win.
Sailing
End of Year Dates
Primary Borrowing finishes on Friday 29 November.
All books must be returned to the library by Friday 6 December.
Scholastic Book Club - Issue 7
Issue 7 Scholastic orders can be placed online at LOGIN (scholastic.com.au). Issue 7 orders close on Wednesday 30 October.
Term 4 Storytime
Preschool story time themes for Term 4 are below. Please register your interest with Nicole van Wyk: nvanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu. See the flyer 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
Celebrating World Teachers' Day - 25 October 2024
It’s hats off to our teachers as we celebrate and thank them for all the work they do to educate, inspire and empower our students at GPCC.
Staff Member of the Week
Our staff member of the week was awarded to Mrs Jacqui Melck.
Jacqui goes above and beyond to care for and lead her Year group. She demonstrates passion for her students academically, spiritually and emotionally and is often seen coaching them through the tough times at school as well as life outside. She has created dance lessons on a Friday, social events each term, and is looking to bring a stronger sense of community and leadership as the students step into Year 12.
Parent/Community Seminar - 30 October 2024
We are looking forward to welcoming Melinda Tankard Reist and Dr Marshall Ballantine-Jones.
Please RSVP by booking on this link: https://www.trybooking.com/CVPQC
AECG Awards Night
On Thursday 14 November the AECG awards night is being held at Erina High School from 4.30pm. All families supporting our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are welcome to attend. Attendees should RSVP by Friday 1 November. The invitation has more information.
Please see our list of nominees below.
|
STUDENT |
GRADE |
AWARD |
|
Alex B |
12 |
Year 12 Graduate |
|
Gabe B |
10 |
Leadership Gabe and his sister Olivia were the MC’s this year for our NAIDOC chapel. They were confident in their delivery and were in the spotlight throughout the service. Standing up in front of 1200 people in an official capacity can be daunting but they did very well. |
|
Olivia B |
6 |
Leadership Olivia and her brother were the MC’s this year for our NAIDOC chapel. They were confident in their delivery and were in the spotlight throughout the service. Olivia did our Acknowledgement of Country during the service. Standing up in front of 1200 people in an official capacity can be daunting but they did very well. |
|
Lilly B |
9 |
Cultural Participation Lilly participated in the cultural connections program with The Skill Engineer. Aunty Alison identified Lilly as a future leader with passionate opinions and enthusiastic participation in all cultural activities. On her visit to Brewarrina their Principal, Mrs Turner, noticed Lilly really engaging with community. We are excited to see Lilly strengthen her skills, passion and knowledge even further. |
|
Kade C |
10 |
Sporting Achievement Kade has demonstrated exceptional athletic ability this year, representing the college in a variety of sports at a high level. Most recently, he contributed to the school team’s success in winning the Open Oztag Gala Day, competing against other THACCCSA (Christian) schools in the region. This marked his third Oztag Gala Day for the year. Additionally, Kade has represented the college in three tackle rugby league gala days in the U16 and Open divisions, as well as in the prestigious Hunter Region 9’s tournament. |
|
Lanayah H |
6 |
Performing Arts During the recent school performance of Finding Nemo, Lanayah really impressed Mrs McKeown with her energy and commitment to her role. She stood out during the performance, even with an ocean of other talent. Well Done, Lanayah. |
|
Aliyah I |
12 |
Year 12 Graduate |
|
Talan P |
12 |
Year 12 Graduate |
|
Aston P |
3 |
Sporting Achievement Aston is an amazing soccer player; he has travelled overseas numerous times to train and play. Do not be surprised if one day you see him on your television playing for Australia. Keep up the great work, Aston. |
|
Armani P |
1 |
Community & Citizenship Armani is a beautiful social connector. She is always volunteering to help others and very kind and supportive to anyone in need. She is a keen class participant and loves to get involved with new things. Armani is a great ambassador for our school ethos of Godly character and being equipped for a successful life. |
|
Sienna S |
11 |
Leadership Sienna participated in the Cultural Connections program with The Skill Engineer this year. She has lots of ideas to develop cultural programs at GPCC. Transferring from Kincumber High Sienna has had access to great mentors to build her leadership skills. Sienna has agreed to lead our Junior AECG meeting in Term 4 and to help implement student initiatives. |
|
Raj S |
11 |
Cultural Participation Raj participated in part of the Cultural Connections program with The Skill Engineer. He also went out to Brewarrina on another cultural trip with other Aboriginal students from Green Point. Raj has a strong sense of who he is and is well supported by his family and community. |
|
Sanjay S |
12 |
Year 12 Graduate
Creative Arts Sanjay is a very creative student completing Art, Photography and Design subjects for his HSC. He also enjoyed learning more about culture in Aboriginal Studies. Sanjay’s TAFE Design teacher identified that he has a real eye for design and will make an impact in that arena. With a good attitude and lots of sport he has made it through a busy HSC year. Well Done, Sanjay.
Sporting Achievement Sanjay has trained the senior boys basketball team each week all year before school. He recently took the team to our regional THACCCSA Basketball gala day in which they won. The team travels to Penrith shortly to compete in the CSSA Stage Basketball Gala Day. Sanjay has also fulfilled the role of Sports Captain for 2024 with 3 other students. He went through an application, interview and a selection process to receive the role which he has completed with distinction. |
|
Zara T |
10 |
Cultural Participation Zara participated in the Cultural Connections program with The Skill Engineer. Aunty Alison encouraged Zara to ask her parents more about her history. Zara has enjoyed spending time talking about cultural knowledge and connecting with other Aboriginal students. Zara has agreed to support the Junior AECG leader to implement student-led initiatives at Green Point. |
|
Andrew McGillivray |
Teacher |
Teacher Contribution Andrew is the Ngemba Station Liaison Co-ordinator at Green Point. He makes multiple trips out the Brewarrina each year with students either for academic, mission or cultural purposes. Andrew has organised to take Alex and Gabe B on a MAF flight to Queensland, they both have their pilot’s licences. They will visit communities and learn about how MAF serves remote communities. Andrew recently organised an on-country excursion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and Aboriginal Studies students with Girri Girra. He works tirelessly to build community and deepen relationships, both locally and in Brewarrina. |
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
Sydney Dance Company
Dance Kinnect
Woy Woy Waterpolo
AFL Auskick
Go4Fun Term 4 - Registrations Open
Safer Driving Workshops
This free workshop supports parents and supervisors of Learner Drivers to be confident and effective teachers. Topics include information about licence conditions for Learner and P-plate Drivers, tips for using the Learner Driver log book and the importance of providing constructive feedback.See flyer for further workshop details and to book:
Opportunity to Give Blood in Kincumber
One in three people in Kincumber will need blood during their lives. You can donate blood via Australian Red Cross this November.
Kincumber Mobile Blood Donor Centre
Thursday 14 November 12.30 pm to 6.45 pm
Friday 15 November 8.00 am to 2.15 pm
Frost Reserve car park
134 Avoca Drive, Kincumber
See flyer for further information and to book a spot:
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.
Gingerbread House Night
THRIVE Term 4
Coming Up this Week
Monday 28 October
HSC Exams (until Friday 8 November)
Year 9 Girls AIM Mission Trip (25 October - 1 November)
Secondary Sports Awards Assembly (parents welcome)
Tuesday 29 October
Year 7 Incursion - Respectul Relationship Program for Teens (Love Bites Program)
CSSA Primary State Tennis Gala Day
Wednesday 30 October
THACCCSA Woolworths Stage 3 Cricket
Years 7 - 11 Melinda Tankard Reist Secondary Seminar (2 sessions)
Melinda Tankard Reist Student Seminar - 2 sessionsMelinda Tankard Reist Parent Seminar
CSSA Secondary Tennis
Thursday 31 October
2025 Kindergarten Orientation
Friday 1 November
CSSA Secondary Girls Super 8s Cricket Gala Day
Primary CRU - Jason Todd visiting
Dates for your Diary
Monday 4 November
HSC Exams (until Friday 8 November)
Year 11/12 National Prayer Breakfast - Yr 12 2025 Prefects
Tuesday 5 November
2025 Kindergarten Orientation
Wednesday 6 November
THACCCSA Woolworths Stage 2 Cricket
Thursday 7 November
Year 11 Food TEch Sanitarium Excursion
Friday 8 November
Band Jam Primary Incursion - Yrs 3-6
2024 TERM 4 DATES
Monday 14 October - Students commence Term 4
Wednesday 11 December - Last day of Term 4