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Grace
Grace, mercy and forgiveness. These three words are some of the most powerful words that we have in our world. Yet they are words that I fear are losing their meaning in our time and place. These words often intermingle, and each represents a gift, a gift undeserved.
I would like to focus today a little on grace.
Grace defined is free and unmerited favour, it is a gift undeserved. It is safe to say that everyone enjoys receiving a gift and in my experience we all enjoy receiving grace. I am sure we all have a story in our life where something went wrong and we deserved a particular outcome, yet for whatever reason grace was given to us and we were let off. Like being caught speeding and the police officer letting you off with a warning. We all like that, we like getting off and we are grateful to the person that gave us grace and they will often rise in our esteem.
Receiving grace in the form of mercy rather than the justice that we deserve is at the core of the gospel story. In His interactions with His people God has not given us what we deserve. Our desire to do our own thing resulted in our rejection of God from that first time in the Garden of Eden and continuing today. What we deserve is to be cut of from Him forever. That is what true death is.
Instead of giving us death and cutting us off, God shows immense mercy and maintains relationship with us.
The reality is that in this exquisite tension between justice and grace, someone has to pay the cost. When it comes to grace the giver bears the cost. Sometimes the cost of grace is small, not demanding too much of us. Sometimes it costs an awful lot and is incredibly painful to bear. In restoring His relationship with us, grace cost God the life of His son Jesus. Jesus paid the price of our selfishness and sin instead of us. That never ceases to amaze me.
When we choose to dispense grace it costs us, it really can cost us greatly, yet the benefits of relationship, forgiveness and joy, far out strip the cost. In addition, when we turn to God for strength He gives us the strength we need to bear the cost, and when we turn to Him for the grace we need, He fills us with it so we may share that grace and love with others.
At Green Point Christian College we believe that grace is the prime evidence of the love God has for us, and when we demonstrate grace we demonstrate our - and Gods - love for others. We also hope to be a community in which these amazing words continue to hold their meaning. May I encourage you to continue to explore the place of grace in your life and interactions.
Joel van Bentum
Principal
Mrs Amanda Rutlidge | Head of Primary
Illness
There have been some stomach bug cases at school lately so please remind your children of practising good hygiene habits. If your child is unwell, I encourage you to keep them home to rest and recover, as well as to reduce the spread of germs.
Workbooks
Over the next few weeks, your child may start to bring workbooks home for the year. Student workbooks are used for a variety of teaching and learning activities including practising, drafting and presenting. Teachers often give verbal rather than written feedback to Primary students as this is the most effective way to improve learning outcomes for students of this age. It is not always necessary for a teacher to mark every written activity, and there may be small sections of workbooks that are incomplete. This does not necessarily mean that your child has not engaged in these exercises. Rather, the teacher may have chosen a different teaching strategy such as a class discussion instead. Please enjoy looking through your child’s workbooks as you reflect with them on their school year.
Volunteers Needed
If you are able to assist Primary school in covering some books in contact could you please contact: michelle.molkentin@gpcc.nsw.edu.au. Thank you.
Students of the Week
Mason B; KDL, Oliver B; KDL,Charles P; KK, Annabelle C; KK,Lily P; KS, Cora H; KS,Kingston W; 1C, Jiles H; 1C,Zyren L; 1G, Daisy R; 1G,Joshua K; 1PS, Lucas G; 1PS,Ziggy D; 2J, Finn B; 2J,Onyx G; 2G, Paige C; 2G,Eliana V; 3B, Alex K; 3B,Eric H; 3D, Mila B; 3D,Keira Y; 3M, Jacob H; 3M, Skye B; 4H,David C; 4H, Isla C; 4M,Nixon C; 4M, Sebastian J; 5B,Anabella P; 5B, Max F; 5L,Isabella J; 5L, Milly C; 5P,Matthew L; 5P, Andries d; 6B,Ulrich E; 6B, Louis A; 6SH,Breanna S; 6SH, Tex P; 6S,Lilliana G; 6S
I meet with a lot of prospective parents and there are certain topics that often get asked. One of the main ones is “Do you allow phones at school?”. When I tell them our policy, the parents are invariably happy and relieved to hear it.
Like all rules, we have a policy in place for a good reason. The State Government has also recognised these reasons. Due to the negative impact of phones in a range of areas, including learning, relationships, bullying and mental health, they have taken the step to ban phones in public schools.
As a reminder, students should not have their phones from the time they arrive on campus until 3.15pm. If a student has their phone out, they will be asked to take it to the office to be picked up at the end of the day. If there are repeat offences we will help the student to not be tempted to use their phone by bringing it to the office in the morning and picking it up at the end of the day.
If you need to get a message to a student before 3.15pm, please contact the office and we will get a message to them. Often when a student has their phone on them their excuse is “I am waiting on a message from mum” and so we would like to remove that excuse.
From Sunday 2 November - Monday 3 November our Year 12 2025 Prefects attended the National Prayer Breakfast in Canberra. Students served as ushers, welcoming a number of Australian and international dignitaries. Our 2025 Captains Talia and Clinton led the gathering in responding to prayer requests from around Australia. We were greatly encouraged by the meeting of many people of faith across the political spectrum. Following the event, we met with Dr Gordon Reid (MP), Dr Rachel Carling (CSA Director of Public Policy) and Mr Julian Leeser (MP). Students asked great questions about faith and politics, the challenges and importance of Christian education, and the ways in which they can use their own voices to speak up for what is right and to protect religious freedoms. We would like to commend our students on how well they represented their school community and for their patience, participation and maturity during the trip. Thanks also to Mr Steve Spies, who volunteered his time to drive the bus and shared his experience and heart for Christian education.
Mrs Jillian McKay
Bali Life Service Trip 2025
We’d like to announce that we are currently beginning our plans for our next trip to Bali in 2025. The dates for this trip are Wednesday 25 June – Saturday 5 July, 2025. The cost of this trip is approximately $2,500 and this is open to students in Years 10 and 11 in 2025. We are hosting a parent information evening on Wednesday 13 November at 7:30pm in CAPA 5.
Please email Mrs Rebecca Gavin for more information. rgavin@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
Mr Stuart McSwan | K - 6 Sport Co-ordinator
Surf Safety Days 2024
Next week each grade has the privilege of attending a Surf Safety education day at Terrigal Beach. Information is available on Parent Lounge. We are looking forward to having some safe fun at the beach.
Activities include:
- Beach and Sand Activities (Newcomb ball and Obstacle Course)
- Nipper Board
- Body Board Skills
- Rescue Tube
Please ensure you have given permission via Parent Lounge.
NNSW National Schools Futsal Tournament
During the holidays, Riley D (Year 6) travelled to Brisbane to compete for NNSW in the National Schools Futsal Tournament. Though the team had a slow start, they advanced to the quarter finals, semi finals, and ultimately the grand final. It was a tough match that went into Golden Point extra time, but the team narrowly lost 3-2. Despite the defeat, the girls were incredibly proud of their performance.
At the end of the tournament, Riley was selected for the 2025 U13 Girls Australian team and will be traveling to Barcelona next May.
What an amazing achievement by Riley and so exciting to be able to travel to Barcelona and play next year. We will be cheering you and the team on. Go Riley.
Dates for your Calendar
PRIMARY TERM 4
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 11 December - K-2 Fun Day on School Oval
Mr Chris Harris | Years 7 - 12 Sport Co-ordinator
Cricket Match Report
On Monday 4 November our Open Cricket team competed against Pacific Hills Christian School (PHCS) in Round 1 of the CSSA statewide knockout 50-over competition at Kellyville. GPCC batted first, setting a formidable target of 303 runs, thanks to impressive scores in the 90s by Raj S and Charlie M, along with valuable contributions from the rest of the lineup. In response, PHCS batted the full 50 overs, finishing at 9/269. Raj S, Charlie M, and Tyson S each took two wickets, contributing to the team’s strong bowling effort.
Congratulations to the entire team on their victory. They will advance to Round 2, where they will face Carinya Christian School from Tamworth.
U15 Cricket
On Wednesday 6 November the Under 15 Cricket team travelled to Sydney to compete against Hills Grammar at Kenthurst Park. GPCC won the toss and chose to bowl first. Hills Grammar quickly found themselves at 4 for 22, but their next two batsmen displayed remarkable skill and a wide range of shots, both reaching centuries. Despite the challenging conditions, GPCC persevered, ultimately restricting Hills Grammar to 302 for 6 at the end of their 40 overs. Wickets were taken by Isaac J, Thomas D, and Alex S.
Hills Grammar’s bowling attack was fierce and highly accurate. In response, GPCC managed a commendable total of 104 runs, with notable contributions from Isaac S (19), Oliver C (20), and Aiden B (14). Although it was a tough match, I am extremely proud of the team’s determination and the way they represented the College.
Mr Paul Chambers
Mrs Nicole van Wyk and Mrs Judi Hurst | Teacher Librarians
Library Survey 2024
Parents, students, teachers, and community members are invited to complete the library survey for 2024. Our last survey was five years ago. It is important to see how we are travelling and to gather ideas on how we can serve our community more effectively.
Survey closes 3pm on Friday 29 November.
Makerspace: Limited Item Challenge
Years 3-6 students can pick up a challenge bag at the library next week. There are 100 bags only. Students have until Monday 18 November to return their finished creations to the library.
Rules
- You can only use items from the bag (including the bag)
- You are allowed to use glue and sticky tape
- You do not need to use every item
- You cannot add an item that isn’t in the bag
- The theme/design is completely up to you
- You make your creation at home
- Make sure you write your name and class on your entry
- You can work in pairs or individually
It would be a good idea to write down some design ideas before you start working. The library will not replace items from the bag due to mistakes. If you are missing any objects from the list, please come, and tell library staff.
I wish you all the best in creating something unique and interesting with the products provided. Prizes will be awarded in Week 6.
End of Year Dates
Primary Borrowing finishes on Friday 29 November.
All books must be returned to the library by Friday 6 December.
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
My Mind Check - Years 5 and Year 11
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Did you know that mental health is one of the top three most important issues to young people in Australia today? That’s why we’re pleased to introduce My Mind Check, a new student mental health and wellbeing check-in tool for Australian schools, developed by youth mental health experts and funded by the Australian Government. Select year levels will be invited to participate in 30-minute check-in sessions here at school, under supervision by school staff. They will use a computer or tablet to respond to age-appropriate questions about how they’re feeling and skip any questions they don’t want to answer. Only certain school staff will review their check-in outcomes and follow up on any identified needs. Why My Mind Check? · It gives our students a voice about their mental health and wellbeing and helps to build their mental health literacy. · It is evidence based; built for Australian schools from research and clinical studies by Macquarie University (Sydney). · It guides schools and families to helpful information and resources for each mental health and wellbeing topic included in the check-in, making it easy for us to learn more and consider next steps. · It meets strict Commonwealth privacy and security standards and is supported by independent security evaluation. My Mind Check is not a clinical assessment of mental health. Instead, it gives us insights into the wellbeing of each student and of our collective school community. There are no costs, and participation is voluntary. Check-in sessions for students in Year 5 and Year 11 will commence in Week 3 for Year 5 and Week 5 for Year 11, of Term 4. We’re committed to supporting our students and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive. Stay tuned for details! To learn more about My Mind Check, visit mymindcheck.org.au. |
Staff Member of the Week
You are Invited to Green Point Community Carols
AECG Awards Night
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
Uniform Fitting Information for 2025
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 are 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 into 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.
Child Wellbeing Webinars
We are excited to share two important upcoming webinars with your school community. These events focus on supporting children's wellbeing and making key transitions easier for familes.
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
Trailer for Sale
7 x 5 Gal Trailer. Heavy duty with brakes, 1060kg carry, spare wheel on bracket, with cage. Long Rego.
Call Brian for further information: 0404 478 341
Central Coast Family Support Services
Central Coast Family Support are hosting two CHIME Project workshops in Term 4 with registrations currently open. For more details visit www.ccfss.org.au or call 4340 1585
Fear-Less Triple P One Day Workshop - Thursday 14 November at 9am.
The Fear-less Triple P program is for parents or carers of children aged 5-12 years where the child has moderate to high levels of anxiety that negatively impact on everyday functioning.
To register: CHIME Project - Fear-Less Triple P One Day Workshop
Parent & Child Workshops - Tuesdays (3.30pm) from 26 November
After School workshops for children 5-12 years and their parents to learn, connect and create together.
To register: CHIME Project - Parent & Child After-School Workshops
Volunteers Needed - Operation Christmas Child
We praise God that thousands of Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts have been collected from across Australia and New Zealand! Now we need to process and prepare these shoeboxes for international shipment. Volunteers are currently needed at each of our Processing Centres. Will you join us in this exciting task and help take the Gospel to the ends of the earth?
Bring your family or church group with you to add to the fun. Register now to volunteer and be a part of sending great joy and the Good News of Jesus Christ to millions of boys and girls around the world!
Dance Kinnect
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 11 November
CSSA Primary State Basketball (Years 5 and 6)
Year 12 Formal
Year 3 Surf Fun Day - Terrigal
Tuesday 12 November
2025 Kingergarten Orientation - Avoca Beach Park
Year 4 Surf Fun Day - Terrigal
Year 8 Ethics Olympiad Excursion (5 students with Mr Samild)
Wednesday 13 November
Bali Life Service Trip Parent Information Evening - Green Point Baptist Church
Thursday 14 November
Year 9 Bronze Duke of Ed Qualifying Hike
Years 11 & 12 History Extension Seminar (Incursion)
Orientation Day for Year 5 2025
Year 5 Surf Fun Day - Terrigal
Friday 15 November
Year 9 Bronze Duke of Ed Qualifying Hike
Year 6 Surf Fun Day - Terrigal
Dates for your Diary
Moday 18 November
Year 7 MAF Workshops Incursions
Tuesday 19 November
Year 6 Parent Morning Tea
Year 10 Your Choicez Seminar
Year 12 History Extension at St Phillips Gosford
Westpac Helicopter Schools Landing
Wednesday 20 November
2025 Kindergarten Orientation
Year 10 CRUI Camp
Year 11 Geography Field Trip to Hunter Valley
Primary Music Concert
Thursday 21 November
Secondary Central Coast Water Polo
Year 10 CRU Camp
Central Coast Chess Championships (Primary and Secondary)
Primary School Orientation (Years 1,2, 3, 4 and 6)
Friday 22 November
Secondary THACCCSA Super 8's Cricket Gala Day
Year 10 CRU Camp
Thursday 5 December
Year 10 Dinner Dance
Friday 6 December
Secondary Thanksgiving Assembly (9am-11am)
Monday 9 December
Year 6 Graduation Assembly (9am-11am)
Year 6 Graduation Dinner - Killcare Surf Club
Tuesday 10 December
Primary Thanksgiving Service (9.30am - 11am)
Wednesday 11 December
Year 3-6 Last Day at Umina Beach
Wednesday 11 December
K-2 Fun Day on School Oval
2024 TERM 4 DATES
Wednesday 11 December - Last day of Term 4
2025 TERM DATES
Term 1
Wednesday 29 January - Students commence Term 1 (Years 1 - 7 and 12)
Thursday 30 January - Years 8 - 11, Kindergarten commence Term 1
Friday 11 April - Last Day Term 1
Term 2
Tuesday 29 April - Students Commence Term 2
Monday 9 June - King's Birthday Public Holiday
Friday 4 July - Last day Term 2
Term 3
Monday 28 July - Students Commence Term 3
Friday 26 September - Last Day Term 3
Term 4
Monday 13 October - Students commence Term 4
Wednesday 10 December - Last Day Term 4 for students
Advancedlife Photography Dates for 2025
Tuesday 25 February 2025 - Secondary students, plus Secondary only Sibling photos (at lunchtime)
Tuesday 4 March 2025 - Primary students, plus Primary only Sibling photos (at lunchtime)
Thursday 6 March 2025 - Absentee photos, then mixed Primary & Secondary Sibling photos