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Mr Joel van Bentum | Principal
Deep Listening in a Distracted World
In today's fast-paced world, noise and distraction fill every corner of our lives. For teachers and parents, the challenge is even greater, educating and raising children where true connection is often drowned out by constant alerts and busy schedules is tough. In this climate, deep listening is not just a helpful skill; it is an essential act of connection and of love.
Christian van Nieuwerburgh, a leading voice in coaching and positive psychology, highlights the power of genuine listening, not just hearing words, but attending to another person with curiosity and care. When we listen deeply, we communicate to our children: You matter. I see you.
Radical listening calls us to set aside assumptions and the urge to fix things. It invites us to create a safe space where children can explore their thoughts and feelings, knowing they are accepted. This requires intention: putting down phones, turning away from distractions, and being fully present, even for a few minutes.
Why does this matter? Research shows that children who feel heard are more confident, resilient, and better able to form healthy relationships. Deep listening helps build an inner voice that is secure and self-assured.
Practicing deep listening also models it for our children. It doesn't require grand gestures. Often, it’s a quiet pause, eye contact, a gentle question, and a willingness to wait for their answer.
In a noisy world, deep listening is a radical act. It is a gift we can offer our children every day a gift that says, "You are worth my full attention." As van Nieuwerburgh reminds us, sometimes the greatest impact we have is not through our words, but through the loving silence we hold for another.
In the end, deep listening nurtures connection, understanding, and hope and these are very important things our children need in today’s world.
Mrs Amanda Rutlidge | Head of Primary
Winter Uniform
Just a reminder that, from next Monday, winter uniform is compulsory for students. Please make sure all items (especially jackets) are clearly labelled with your child’s name.
Princess and the Pea – K-2 excursion
Kindergarten and Year 2 students recently enjoyed a special excursion to the Wyong Art House to experience a live performance of The Princess, The Pea (and The Brave Escapee), presented by the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
The morning was filled with wonder and excitement as students were captivated by the delightful storytelling and beautiful music. It was a fantastic opportunity for the children to not only enjoy a theatrical production but also to learn about the instruments featured in the string quartet.
Mothers Day Breakfast
We were delighted to welcome so many wonderful Mothers, Grandmothers, and Mother figures to our Mother’s Day Breakfast on Friday. It was a wonderful time of community and fellowship together as we acknowledge these special women in our lives. Thank you to the amazing group of parent volunteers who organised and served at the Mothers Day Stall during the day. We wish all our Mums a very Happy Mothers’ Day for Sunday.
Little Office Visitors
Our Year 1 students had the chance to visit the new Administration Building this week. They enjoyed a walk through the offices, met some of the staff, and got a little glimpse into what happens behind the scenes at school. It was a fun way to explore a different part of the college.
Opal Card Check
Students are reminded to bring and use their Opal cards each time they catch the bus. Busways are conducting an Opal Card Check on Tuesday 3 June on the after-school run.
Students of the Week
Vida G; KR, Amelia A; KS,Maisy T; 1G, Joel D; 1PN,Isla R; 1S, Macie A; 2G,Isaiah O; 2J, Sophie H; 2K,Maddison H; 3M, Onyx G; 3BM,Heidi L; 4H, Keira Y; 4KM,Tiago P; 4P, Elle M; 5B,Cliff R; 5L, Jack B; 5T,Celine R; 6A, Emily C; 6B,Rose M; 6SM
"If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you"
Over the course of the year, we will be looking at a range of dispositions that will help students in their learning. The first of these is to be willing - one of the most valuable qualities our students can have is a willingness to learn.
A perfect example of this mindset is found in the inspiring true story portrayed in the film "The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind". Based on the life of William Kamkwamba, a young boy from Malawi, the movie tells the story of how his determination to learn changed his life—and the lives of many others.
Faced with a severe famine and limited access to education, William didn’t let his circumstances define his future. Even after being forced to leave school because his family couldn’t afford the fees, he continued to visit the library and teach himself about electricity and engineering. His willingness to learn on his own led him to build a windmill from scrap materials, bringing electricity and irrigation to his village and helping save it from drought.
William’s story is a powerful reminder that being open to learning can lead to extraordinary outcomes. It teaches us that education isn't just something that happens in a classroom; it's a lifelong journey powered by curiosity, resilience, and creativity. Most importantly, it shows that a single student with a passionate desire to learn can have a profound impact on their community and the world.
For students at GPCC, William's story is an example of the incredible potential each of them hold when they approach learning with an open mind and determined spirit. A willingness to try, to ask questions, and to keep going even when it's tough can lead to powerful growth that not only impacts their own future but can affect others in a positive way.
Opal Card Check
Students are reminded to bring and use their Opal cards each time they catch the bus. Busways are conducting an Opal Card Check on Tuesday 3 June on the after-school run.
Mr Stuart McSwan | K - 6 Sport Co-ordinator
GPCC Primary Athletics Carnival
Last Friday we held our Primary Athletics Carnival at Mingara Athletics Centre. We were blessed with mostly clear skies with a little bit of rain thrown in and were able to get through most of the required track and field events with the plan to run House relays, High Jump and Girl’s Shot Put ran here at school at different times throughout the term.
It was so encouraging to see the number of children that participated throughout the day with students from Year 2-6.
A special mention to Nash P (Year 6) who broke a long-standing record from 1998 for the 12yr Boys 200m with a time of 28.28. Good on you Nash.
An event like this could not happen without the parent and student helpers, House Captains, teachers and other staff members that all go above and beyond to complete their jobs before and during the carnival. Thanks also to Mr Partridge for organising some Year 10 PASS students to assist throughout the day. Thank you to everyone that helped in one way or another.
It was wonderful to see the students run and jump during events as well as hearing cheering from the crowd to encourage each competitor. Congratulations to all the students for doing their best and we now look forward to taking a strong team to Zone in early August.
Stay tuned for Age Champions, Zone squad and winning House results which will be published once all the events have been completed and awards presented during a Chapel service later in the term.
Loudest, catchiest, most creative chant:
| 1st Warriors | 2nd Breakers | 3rd Eagles | 4th Hurricanes |
Cleanest House area:
| 1st Eagles | 2nd Warriors | 3rd Breakers | 4th Hurricanes |
Dates for your Calendar
School Carnivals
| Date | Event | Location |
| TERM 2 | ||
| Friday - 2 May | GPCC Primary Yrs 2-6 Athletics Carnival | Mingara Athletics Track |
| TERM 3 | ||
| Friday - 19 September | GPCC K-2 Athletics Carnival | GPCC Grounds |
| TERM 4 | ||
| Friday - 24 October | GPCC K-2 Swimming Carnival | Peninsula Leisure Centre |
Carnival/Sporting levels:
GPCC: Green Point Christian College
HCZS: Hunter Christian Zone Sports (Zone)
CSSA: Christian Schools Sports Association (State)
CIS: Combined Independent Schools
PSSA: Primary School Sports Association
.Representative Carnivals
| Date | Event | Location |
| TERM 2 | ||
| Friday - 30 May | CSSA Primary and Secondary State Cross Country Carnival | Sydney Equestrian Centre |
| Thursday - 12 June | CIS Primary and Secondary Cross Country | TBA |
| Friday - 22 July | NSW PSSA All Schools X-Country Championships | TBA |
| TERM 3 | ||
| Tuesday - 5 August | HCZS Zone Primary Athletics Carnival | Glendale |
| Friday - 22 August | CSSA Primary State Athletics Carnival | Blacktown |
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Friday - 5 September |
CIS Primary Athletics Carnival | TBA |
| TERM 4 | ||
| Wednesday - 22 October | NSW PSSA All Schools Athletics Carnival Day One | TBA |
| Thursday - 23 October | NSW PSSA All Schools Athletics Carnival Day Two | TBA |
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GPCC Sport Teams
We are looking forward to sending our teams to a number of Gala Days and competitions in Primary again 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, teacher announcements in class and listen out for Assembly announcements for when trials will be held.
The protocol for team selection link: GPCC_PRIMARY_REPRESENTATIVE_SPORT_TEAM_SELECTION_PROCESS.pdf
- 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 40 students to trial for a team that only has 10 spots available.
- Once teams have been chose, they will aim to have at least one training session each week before a competition.
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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 (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. Students need to be currently playing in the sport at a very high level and have several years' experience (preferably at a Representative level): Parents are required to transports students to and from these trials.
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CSSA and CIS Sport trial dates: Please note these are not for GPCC school teams.
| Term 2 | |
| Monday - 12 May | CIS Primary Rugby League Trials (select students) - Nominations close Monday - 5 May |
| Monday - 16 May | CIS Primary Boys and Girls Golf trials - Nominations clsoe Tuesday 10 June |
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* Students must be a member of a registered Golf Club (AGU, WGA), Jack Newton Golf Foundaiton, any Junior Development Program and their handicap at the time of nomination does not exceed 32 in the case of boys and 44 in the case of girls. If the field is too large, players may be balloted based on handicap.
Parents will be required to enter the following extra information on your nomination form:
- Golf Club
- GOLF Link Number
- Handicap.
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| Wednesday 16 June | CIS Primary Boys and Girls Golf trials. Nominations close Tuesday 10 June. |
| Wednesday 18 June (NEW DATE) | CSSA Primary State Gymnastics Levels Only (select students). Yeear 6 in Canberra |
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*All competitors are required to have an accredited gymnastics coach from their club attend on the day- Nominations close WEDNESDAY 4 JUNE Note: All competitors must be insured and registered with a Gymnastics NSW affiliated club. The CSSA State Gymnastics Competition is run following the NSW Gymnastics rules and guidelines. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate students competing under different gymnastic affiliations ie. Recreational Gymnastics Australia (RGA). |
| Wednesday 18 June |
CIS Primary Rugby Union Trials #1 (select students). Nominations close Wednesday 12 June. Year 6 in Canberra |
CSSA have recommended that all adults (teachers, volunteers, and parents) complete the following module on Child Protection before attending any CSSA event (trials, gala days or carnivals). Thank you.
https://old.cssa.net.au/child_protection/index.html#/
Below is a link for the Risk Warning that accompanies all CSSA run events
https://cssa.nsw.edu.au/risk-warning/
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Mr Chris Harris | Years 7 - 12 Sport Co-ordinator
Australian Secondary Schools Sailing Championships
Congratulations to Jonathon L (Year 11) who competed in the Australian Secondary Schools Sailing Championships at Belmont 16s Sailing Club during the first week of the school holidays.
He came first in the ILCA 6 Division and 3rd in his class. He had a fantastic time competing as you can see from the photos. Well done Jonathon.
Congratulations to Ben J (Year 9) who recently earned his Black Belt in Shotokan Karate. After a minimum of 4 years of dedicated training and perseverance, culminating in an intense 24-hour Black Belt grading, Ben has demonstrated the discipline, resilience, and spirit that define true martial artists. Achieving a Black Belt is a rare accomplishment—fewer than 1 in 1,000 students who begin their martial arts journey ever reach this milestone. It represents not just technical skill, but years of commitment, character development, and personal growth. Congratulations Ben.
Dates for your Calendar
| Date | Event | Location |
| Monday 5th May (evenings) & Tuesday 6th May (day) | CIS Secondary Swimming & Diving Championships | TBC |
| Wednesday 7th May | CC Premiership City Cup U18s | Gumbayah Oval Doyalson |
| Friday 9th. (Back up day Friday 16th May) |
HCZS Soccer Gala Day | May Gipps St Playing Fields, Tamworth |
| Friday 9th May |
CIS Secondary 15&U and Open Boys/Girls Touch Championships | TBC |
| Monday 19th May | CCAFL Junior Boys and Girls Gala Day | TBC |
| Wednesday 21st May | Central Coast Premiership City Cup U13s | Rogers Park Woy Woy |
| Wednesday 21st May | CCAFL Senior Boys and Girls Gala Day | TBC |
| Thursday 22nd May | HCZS Netball Gala Day | Netball Charlestown |
| Thursday 22nd & Friday 23rd May | NSWAS Secondary Swimming & Diving Championships | TBC |
| Friday 23rd May | GPCC Secondary Cross Country Carniva | GPCC |
| Wednesday 28th May | Central Coast Premiership City Cup U15s | Carrington Street Oval |
| Friday 30th May | CSSA Secondary Cross Country | Sydney International Equestrian Centre |
Carnival/Sporting levels:
GPCC: Green Point Christian College
HCZS: Hunter Christian Zone Sports (Zone)
CSSA: Christian Schools Sports Association (State)
CIS: Combined Independent Schools
NSWAS: NSW All Schools
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Individual Sport Trials for CSSA and CIS Teams (NOT GPCC teams)
These trials are not for GPCC school teams that we trial for here at school. 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 Harris before these Nomination dates if your child would like to be considered. They need to be currently playing in the sport at a very high level and have several years' experience (preferably at a Representative level): Parents are required to transports students to and from these trials.
Any questions about college sporting teams, coaches, gala days, carnivals and trials can be directed to my email charris@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
Primary Choir
We look forward to our next perform in Term 2, Week 4 in the Primary Chapel (Parents are welcome).
Practice Details
Where: CAPA Theatre
When: Tuesday mornings 8:00am – 8:30am
Who: Students in Grades 1-6
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Wakakirri 2025 - Great Stories Inspire Change
We encourage all students in the production to use the choreography videos on Schoolbox to revise regularly. An email has been sent home with the rehearsal schedule and student group lists, please ensure students are attending their allocated group practise. We look forward to continuing to create a beautiful story.
GPCC Welcome Band 2025
GPCC is excited to announce that the Welcome Band will be starting up next week (Week 3).. The band will be led by Mrs Rebecca McKeown and is a perfect starting point for students in years 3-6 who have never tried a band instrument before.
The band will be at a new lower price of $220 per Term, and instruments are also available for students to hire from the school.
It is not too late to sign up.
If you are interested in more information on the Welcome Band or Music Program please fill out an enquiry form via the link below:
https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/education-learning/co-curricular-activities/music-program-enquiry
Alternatively, you can email our Music Tutor Administrator, daniel.friend@gpcc.nsw.edu.au for more information.
Mrs Nicole van Wyk and Mrs Judi Hurst | Teacher Librarians
Online Library Resources
Premier’s Reading Challenge
Term 2 Storytime
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.
National Simultaneous Storytime - Wednesday 21 May
All students K-2 and YVCS are attending National Simultaneous Storytime on Wednesday 21 May, 12noon in the library. We will read "The Truck Cat" by Deborah Frenkel. Over two million people in schools, libraries and groups will read the story at the same time both in Australia and New Zealand. We will have some craft and games as well. Each year we look forward to this great initiative and the fun we have celebrating stories.
Scholastic Book Club- Issue 3
Issue 3 orders can now be placed online via the link below. Orders close Sunday 18 May.
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Partners in Educaiton
Enrolment Reminder
Please advise in writing via registrar@gpcc.nsw.edu.au if your child will be leaving GPCC.
Parking
A friendly reminder about parking arrangements for drop-off and pick-up:
- Gate 1 and Gate 3 provide access to the Kiss and Drop zones and P1, P3, and P4 parking areas: these are the designated areas for College families.
- Gate 2 and P2 parking spaces are reserved exclusively for Green Point Baptist Church and Little Coasties staff and visitors.
To ensure the safety of our children, staff, and visitors, and to maintain smooth traffic flow, we kindly ask that College families avoid parking or stopping in these restricted areas.
Staff will be monitoring the P2 area to guide parents and carers to the correct zones if needed.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to keep drop-offs and pick-ups safe and efficient for everyone.
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
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2026 TERM DATES
Please see link below for 2026 term dates
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Scott plays a vital role behind the scenes, ensuring our technical systems run smoothly so that both staff and students have the access and support they need. With a servant-hearted approach, he leads by example, always ready to assist, troubleshoot, and guide.
As a mentor to our team of system engineers, Scott offers both technical expertise and steady leadership. His commitment to excellence and his dedication to serving our College community are deeply valued and appreciated.
Community Connections: On-Country Experience
Uncle Gavi Duncan and Aunty Alison Preece took our Secondary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students up to Bulgandry and to the Terrigal Ochre pits on Tuesday 6 May to learn on country. The students were joined Mr Andrew McGillivray, they had a BBQ lunch and lots of fun. Thank you to the Cultural Connections program for providing this amazing experience for our students.
Uniform Shop
2025 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.
Cash will no longer be accepted as of 1 June 2025.
Please click on the PDF flyer below for further information regarding Uniform fittings.
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.
Blood Donations
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 27 to 31 May. Don’t forget to pre-book your spot at Lifeblood.com.au, on our app or on 13 14 95.
Camp Australia
As Term 2 gets underway, Camp Australia has some exciting programs on offer at OSHC (Outside School Hours Care). From creativity and imaginative play to wellbeing activities and friendly competitions, there’s something to inspire and engage every child.
| Big Art Fridays | Weekly creative sessions every Friday in After School Care |
| OSHC LEGO® Masters Week (12 – 16 May) |
Children take on LEGO challenges each day for the chance to be crowned an OSHC LEGO Master. |
| Big Art Comp: LEGO Masters Edition (16 May – 20 June) |
A chance to build, create, and win prizes. |
| World Play Day (11 June) |
Aligned with the International Day of Play, we celebrate the power of play. |
| Healthy Eating Week (9 – 13 June) |
Fun activities focused on nutrition and wellbeing. |
| Unplug Childhood with Dr Justin Coulson (24 June) |
Free webinar for families. |
Green Point Community Notices
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Firewood for Sale
Call Brian for further information: 0404 478 341
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Dance and Sport Activities
Green Point Baptist Church
Services: 9:30am Worship Service, 6:00pm Service
Services continue to be available online each week.
One of the hopes behind this initiative is that it will be a blessing to our school community, offering connection, encouragement, and support to GPCC parents and carers in the early years of parenting.
If you would like to place an community advertisement in the Green Point Community Notices, please email details to our Messenger Editor, Christina Hutchinson at newsletter@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
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