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Mr Joel van Bentum | Principal
Supporting Healthy Tech Use
At Green Point Christian College, our mission is to equip students for lives of redemptive action. In today’s world, that includes helping young people develop healthy and balanced relationships with technology. While digital devices are powerful tools for learning and connection, without clear boundaries they can quickly consume family life, affect sleep, and reduce opportunities for face-to-face interaction. Parents play the most significant role in shaping tech-healthy habits, and there are some practical ways you can help.
Last week we hosted Australian psychologist Dr Brad Marshall at our Partners in Education evening. Often called the Unplugged Psychologist, Brad has worked with many families struggling with screen time. He reminds parents that while rules and conversations are important, they are often not enough on their own. Children and teenagers are resourceful, and software-based parental controls can usually be worked around. Instead, Dr Marshall recommends hardware solutions—controlling the Wi-Fi router at home, setting automatic switch-off times, and restricting mobile data access where possible. These simple steps create healthy boundaries without daily conflict. For example, having Wi-Fi turn off at a set hour encourages better sleep and creates natural space for reading, family conversation, or prayer.
In a similar way, Daniel Sih, author of Raising Tech-Healthy Humans, encourages parents to design rhythms at home that protect what matters most. He points out that children thrive when technology is treated as a tool, not a master. That means thinking intentionally about spaces and times in the home where screens are not allowed, such as bedrooms or at the dinner table. Just as we train our children in healthy eating and exercise, so too we must train them in healthy digital habits.
What does this look like in practice?
- Use your router or a mesh system to create “bedtime” for the internet.
- Keep devices out of bedrooms overnight.
- Talk with your children when things are calm, not in the heat of frustration.
- Model the habits you hope to see, such as putting your own phone aside during meals.
By combining clear boundaries with warm relationships, families can foster an environment where children learn to use technology wisely. At GPCC we want our students to be equipped not just academically, but also in the skills of self-control, balance, and discernment. Together, with practical steps and shared wisdom, we can raise young people who use technology to enhance life rather than control it.
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Umbrellas
We ask that K-2 students don’t use umbrellas on rainy days as they can often be difficult for the younger students to manage and create a safety hazard. Instead, please send along a raincoat for your child to wear. Thanks for your cooperation with this.
Fathers’ Day Breakfast
Thank you to all who attended our Fathers’ Day Breakfast today. We are so appreciative of all the fathers, grandfathers and father figures in our school community and we wish you all a very Happy Fathers’ Day this weekend.
A very special thank you to all our parent volunteers who organised and ran the Fathers Day Stall we are very grateful of your time and effort to make this a special event for our students.
Winter to Summer uniform change over
Just a reminder that from next week students are allowed to wear their summer uniform as the weather is warming up. However, this is not compulsory until the start of Term 4.
Absences
To notify the College of your child’s absence we recommend using the College App or Parent Lounge. If you have not registered for the GPCC App you can download via the App store.
If your child needs to leave the College early, please send a written note that can be shown to the class teacher. If you have not planned early leave or your child is not aware, kindly advise the College by 2:30pm. After this time, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to pass on the message.
Students of the Week
William K; KR, Enzo P; KS,Noah B; 1G, Hinata V; 1PN,Sophie B; 1S, Zoe D; 2G,Isabella C; 2J, Max R; 2K,Knox G; 3M, Isaac H; 3BM,Lucas R; 4H, Joel Y; 4KM,Bourne R; 4P, Josiah R; 5B,Jack G; 5L, Kyle M; 5T,Avalon R; 6A, Harper H; 6B,Isabel S; 6SM
Perseverance, Character and Persistence
In Romans 5:3–4 we read: “We know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” These words give us a different way of looking at the trials we face. Rather than being obstacles to avoid, they can become opportunities for growth. I began by saying "School can be a challenging place” but in light of this, I could say "School should be a challenging place”; or “I want GPCC to be a challenging place”.
Perseverance is the determination to keep going, even when things are tough. When we develop perseverance, it changes who we are, it strengthens our character. Character is what helps us make wise choices, treat others with respect, and hold onto our values even under pressure. And out of that character comes hope, a confident assurance that no matter what happens, God is at work shaping our future.
For our students, this means that every challenge is an opportunity to build resilience and faith. Whether it’s sticking with a difficult subject, training hard for sport, or showing kindness in a tough situation, perseverance is being formed. As a community, we want to celebrate effort, encourage persistence, and remind one another that what we are building now will lead to strong character and lasting hope.
Absences
To notify the College of your child’s absence we recommend using the College App or Parent Lounge. If you have not registered for the GPCC App you can download via the App store.
If your child needs to leave the College early, please send a written note that can be shown to the class teacher. If you have not planned early leave or your child is not aware, kindly advise the College by 2:30pm. After this time, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to pass on the message.
Mr Stuart McSwan | K - 6 Sport Co-ordinator
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HCSZS Primary Oztag Gala Day
Next week we will be competing at the HCSZS Zone Primary Oztag Gala Day. Teams have been training hard, and we are looking forward to a great day. Stay tuned for team reports and results in next week’s Messenger.
Dates for your Calendar
For upcoming Carnival, Sporting dates and further information, click on the link below:
Sports Page..
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Mr Chris Harris | Years 7 - 12 Sport Co-ordinator
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HCSZS Basketball Gala Day – Newcastle
On Tuesday, 2 September, the Junior and Senior Boys Basketball teams travelled to Newcastle Basketball Stadium, Broadmeadow, to compete in the annual HCSZS Gala Day. Seven Christian schools from across the region, spanning from Tamworth to Taree, participated in the event.
Our Junior Boys team competed in Division 1 and recorded strong wins against Maitland and Wyong Christian Schools in the preliminary rounds. They were then defeated by a very strong Carinya–Tamworth side, 26–10. GPCC bounced back with a semi-final victory over Wyong, but once again fell short against Carinya–Tamworth in the Grand Final.
The Senior Boys team were dominant throughout their preliminary rounds, securing convincing wins in every match. This form carried into the Grand Final, where they faced Mid Coast Christian College (Taree) and claimed a 27–11 victory.
Congratulations to all players for their outstanding skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the day.
CSSA State Athletics Carnival – Sydney Olympic Park
On Thursday, 28 August, a team of 24 students represented GPCC at the CSSA State Athletics Carnival, held at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre (SOPAC). Students competed across a range of track and field events, including running, jumping, and throwing, with many achieving personal best results on what was a beautiful sunny day.
We are delighted to announce that seven of our athletes have qualified for the upcoming CIS Athletics Carnival, to be held at SOPAC on Tuesday, 23 September.
A special congratulations goes to Jesse M (Year 11) and Alyssa M (Year 12), who were crowned Age Champions on the day, a fantastic achievement.
Well done to all students for their effort, determination, and commitment in representing the College with pride.
HCSZS Girls Futsal Gala Day - Maitland
Our Junior Girls’ Futsal team played with determination and energy all day, demonstrating excellent teamwork and resilience in every match. The girls worked hard to support each other both on and off the court, with their passing and communication improving as the day went on. In the semi-final, they faced a tough opponent in a very close game where every goal counted. Despite giving their absolute best, they were narrowly defeated by just one goal. Although we didn’t progress to the final, the team can be extremely proud of the effort, sportsmanship, and team spirit they displayed throughout the competition.
Dates for your Calendar
For upcoming Carnival, Sporting dates and further information, click on the link below:
Wakakiri
Choir
Our choir has been quietly doing some incredible work this year. They’ve delivered beautiful performances and, each week, students continue to arrive with joy, ready to practise together. Beyond singing, they are building confidence, teamwork, and lifelong skills.
Upcoming Performances:
Next week (Chapel): Performing “I Am a Promise”.
K - 2 Grandparents Day: Two special items to bless our visitors.
Carols in the Stadium: 20th December 2025. The choir has been invited to join a combined schools celebration. Parents, please save the date: more details to follow.
Choir Rehearsals
The choir meets every Tuesday morning in the CAPA Theatre. All students are welcome, come along and add your voice.
Mrs Nicole van Wyk | Teacher Librarian
Mrs Judi Hurst- Retirement
We would like to thank Mrs Judi Hurst for her service to the Green Point Christian College Community over the last four years. Mrs Hurst came to us with some amazing experience from a wide range of Sydney private schools. From the start she made special connections with students and teachers, she will be sorely missed. Congratulations and we hope you enjoy this new season with your family.
Book Week Competitions
Congratulations to our lolly guess winners from the Book Week fair.
Ivy H- 3BM
Mikey H- 4H
Meisha Y- 5B
Term 3 Storytime
Preschool story time themes for Term 3 is below. Please register your interest with Nicole van Wyk: nvanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu. See the flyer for more information.
Online Library Resources
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Staff Member of the Week - Fiona Hales
Fiona has demonstrated remarkable innovation and creativity by harnessing the power of AI to transform the Year 12 Textiles and Design curriculum into a series of engaging, genre-spanning songs. These musical resources are not only impressive in their content and quality but also reflect Fiona’s commitment to making learning both meaningful and memorable.
As a passionate educator and lifelong learner, Fiona continually seeks new ways to inspire her students. Her enthusiasm for textiles is infectious, and she consistently goes above and beyond to support her classes—ensuring every student has the opportunity to complete their projects with confidence and pride.
Fiona embodies the spirit of creative and critical thinking, using imaginative approaches to connect with students and deepen their understanding. Her dedication to excellence and her heart for teaching make her a shining example of the values we uphold at Green Point Christian College.
Phillip Nash Receives CSA Award
Congratulations to Phillip Nash who last week received a CSA (Christian Schools Australia) Award. Phillip was recognised for his many years of dedication to Christian education, starting in the mid 1980’s. Phillip served as college principal at GPCC from 2019-2023, and now continues to oversee GPCC as well as other MELOS schools, as Executive Principal of Melos Education.
To learn more about Phillip's story, please click on: Phillip's Story
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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Book via the parent portal or visit CAMP AUSTRALIA ROCKETEERS REGISTRATION
Tjudibaring AECG Meeting
Please be advised that the next Tjudibaring AECG meeting is Wednesday 10 September at Chertsey PS. All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families are invited to attend.
Tjudibaring AECG Awards: Wednesday 19 November
We have until the end of term to nominate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students for an AECG award. Students can be nominated in one category only.
- Cultural Participation Award
- Community and Citizenship Award
- Creative Arts Award
- Performing Arts Award
- Academic Achievement Award
- Leadership Award
- Sporting Achievement Award
- Project Participation Award/Community Project Award
- Dedication to Learning Award
- Pursuit of Personal Best Award
All nominations must be received by Monday 22 September 3pm, please email Nicole.vanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu.au if you would like to suggest a student nomination.
Free Fun Day with Parliament of NSW
Visit 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 up to 12 years. This year’s highlights include:
- Visiting the heritage chambers
- Playing music and drawing with Blak Douglas
- Having your say in a committee role play
- Travelling through time with historical storytelling
- Making craft animals and objects
- Learning how to vote
- Enjoying live music and engaging with roving historical figures
Discover, learn and have fun at this free one-day-only event.
Parents/carers can learn more and get their free ticket by visiting our website: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/visit/events/Pages/Family-Fun-Day-2025.aspx
Or book directly with Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1329207227599?
If you have any questions, please email dps.education@parliament.nsw.gov.au.
T (02) 9230 2047
Green Point Baptist Church
Services: 9:30am Worship Service, 6:00pm Service
Services continue to be available online each week.
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