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Thank you to those parents who took time to email or ring in response to the recent announcements concerning teacher vaccinations and return to school by students. We are all very invested in these issues and in what lies ahead as we move toward students returning. While the Central Coast is only in lockdown currently until 10 September, we fully expect this to be extended until NSW reaches the target of 70% of adults being double vaccinated.
We have been preparing a position paper on the issue of vaccination and I will send that out in a few days as we are still finalising it. In it we are not making any decisions as such due to the constantly changing nature of the situation, but are setting out the principles upon which we will make decisions once we need to do so. We are attempting to consider carefully the wide range of opinions on vaccination that exist in our community.
You will be aware of the Government’s announced Return to School Roadmap from 25 October – provided certain vaccination targets are met. It appears that as an independent school, we will not be bound by the Roadmap set out for the Department of Education schools but may develop our own. I have already drafted a Roadmap based on the Department model and the Executive team will be discussing it this week. Anything we do will be in accordance with Government regulations and health advice.
Should Regional NSW (including the Central Coast) come out of lockdown before 25 October, we will be able to see all students return to school with significant restrictions in place. Should we still be in lockdown on 25 October and provided other requirements are met, students will be able to return but with greater restrictions in place. Our Roadmap will set out how GPCC will manage these situations.
With two weeks to go until the term break, I am very aware of the tiredness of students, parents, and teachers as we continue with home learning. I have been very impressed with the commitment everyone has shown and thank you for what you are doing to enable our students to continue to learn. Let me remind you that other similar situations have demonstrated that students are not disadvantaged long term and will soon catch up once we are back into more normal mode. Hopefully, we will be back soon!
In the meantime, spare a thought for our Year 12 students who have now endured two years of interruptions to their normal HSC program. The new and later start date (9 November) for the examinations is causing more difficulty and challenges for them. They need our prayers and support. Year 11 students begin school-based examinations this week, so keep them in your thoughts as well as they engage with these in a modified form on-line.
I speak for all the staff when I say how much we miss students being at school. I and the few staff on site each day also miss all our colleagues not being here. It. Is a timely reminder that we were designed for community and fellowship and so must value it when we have easy access to it.
Phillip Nash
Principal
Mrs Nicole Smith | Head of Primary
As the weeks of lockdown tick over many of us have discovered creative ways of connecting with friends and family, as well as developing a rhythm and routine that works. It is not unusual for us all to have good days and down days, and inevitably there will be increased tensions even in the most harmonious families. Fights and arguments amongst siblings are common at the best of times, and during stressful experiences like lockdown it is pretty natural for families to experience more conflict.
Conflict such as this can be a chance for you as the parents to be a problem-solving role model. When you approach family conflict like this it can reduce everyone’s stress levels, and make your family relationships stronger.
There are a few things that can help you manage family conflict during lockdown:
- Decide on some guidelines, eg ‘We will speak about the issue and not yell', or ‘We try to breathe deeply before we react’.
- Praise children when you see them getting along well or working together to sort out a problem.
- Wait before you step in to defuse family disputes. Sometimes this gives children the chance to sort things out for themselves.
- Try to get children involved in calmly reflecting on the disagreement, sorting out what should happen next,
- Pick your battles. You may want to save your energy for important things like making sure your child is getting enough healthy food, sleep and exercise.
Information from raisingchildren.net.au
Fruit & Vegie Month
This week our students have had a wonderful time making 'Fruit & Vegie Sculptures' and enjoying nutritious snacks with their teachers.
Book Week
Thanks to all the students for your amazing costumes in Book Week.
James N (1PB) has been showing a keen interest lately in cooking in lockdown. Pancakes for brunch, dinner he cooked sausages and spag bowl. He has been an amazing help at home with his two sisters. Well done James for learning new skills and helping at home.
Parents Coming on Site
Under current restrictions we must limit people coming on site. If you need to pick something up for your child such as resources, please phone ahead. Once you arrive you must QR code in at reception and let them know what you are picking up. Then please wait outside and it will be delivered to you.
Mr Peter McLellan | Head of Secondary
We are now in Week 8 of Term 3 and I see the continual drain on energy and focus levels across Secondary School. I am so proud of the way that students have been working and focusing in their classes and on the whole having really positive 'roll up your sleeves' attitude to the current situation. However, I do believe having an extra day every couple of weeks that is away from online lessons and allows for time to catch up and recuperate is valuable.
This week on Thursday 9 September will be our second offline day. We have much to be thankful for, therefore it will be known as THANKFUL THURSDAY and there will be no scheduled online lessons.
Obviously, this day will not include Year 11 who will be in the middle of their Preliminary Yearly Examinations which is being held online:
Monday, 6 September 2021
- 9:30am English Advanced, English Standard
- 1:30pm Music Aural
Tuesday, 7 September 2021
- 9:30am Mathematics Advanced; Mathematics Standard
- 1:30pm Drama (Written)
Wednesday, 8 September 2021
- 9:30am Biology
- 1:30pm Business Studies
Thursday, 9 September 2021
- 9:30am Legal Studies; SDD
Friday, 10 September 2021
- 9:30am CAFS; Chemistry; Modern History
- 1:30pm PDHPE
Monday, 13 September 2021
- 9:30am Industrial Technology; Textiles & Design
Tuesday, 14 September 2021
- 9:30am Ancient History; Physics; SOR; Visual Arts
- 1:30pm Ext Maths; Food Technology; Photography
Year 12 have completed their Trial examinations. There have been a lot of changes in terms of the HSC examinations and their timing. They have been pushed back further to Tuesday 9 November, but the picture is hazy in terms of what that will look like.
Please pray for this whole process.
2021/2022 Online Prefect Training
Thank you to Mrs Gavin, Mr Masters and Pastor Will Richards for conducting our 2021/22 Prefect training online.
Mr David Russell
Curriculum Co-ordinator (7-12) | Student Advisor (7-12)
This week’s Careers Newsletter has exciting news from University of Newcastle and Macquarie University about extra selection points. Also, note the apprenticeship opportunities advertised by Verto.
For more details, please see this week's Careers Newsletter or visit the Student Careers section under the 'Education & Learning' menu on the GPCC website.
Nathan Lambert | K-12 Sport Co-ordinator
We have been looking at some recent memories from our school sporting history that are inspirational to all.
One of the biggest sport events every year is the CSSA Primary and Secondary Biathlon/Triathlon. This is such a huge event where students get the chance to compete both individually and as a team in a biathlon/triathlon race.
Not only is it great for students to demonstrate their experience in this sporting environment, but also one where students really encourage one another to do their best, whether they are competing by themselves or in their team.
We had nearly 120 students compete at this event in 2019, which was the second largest team out of 31 Christian Schools. This was a wonderful achievement by our team, demonstrating how much they love to compete, how much they love their sport and how much they love to represent their school.
It was absolutely inspiring to see all of our students try as hard as they did, pushing themselves, not to mention their encouragement of one another. They really supported one another throughout the whole day which was fantastic.
Reflecting on this day, it really was one of the highlights of the year. Their efforts were not just phenomenal, but to have the second largest team compete and to finish with 11 podium finishes is absolutely sensational!!!
The closing date has been extended to Friday 3 September. You can now log ten personal choice books. Please email Mrs van Wyk, nvanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu.au with any questions.
Cockroach Prize Winners
We do not have all winners yet so have a look with your Library sheets to see if you are a winner. There are winners K-6.
Green Point Christian College is delighted to let you know about an education resource that is available to your child at home as part of our school subscription – Story Box Library.
Your child can watch favourite stories, read aloud by fabulous storytellers, at home as well as in the classroom.
Reading aloud to children, in particular by diverse and engaging storytellers, greatly improves language and literacy skills, especially in the early years of a child’s development. https://storyboxlibrary.com.au/
Student Contributions in The Messenger
We encourage students to email contributions for the new section of our weekly newsletter, titled Student Voice. It may be a short story, a poem, service activity, an achievement or award (sporting, scouts, Duke of Ed etc). Please email to jcollins@gpcc.nsw.edu.au for consideration of inclusion in The Messenger.
Enrolments for Year 3 have been so strong for the coming year, that Green Point Christian College are pleased to announce we are opening a third stream for 2022.
Limited places are now available, and we would love you to share this news with anyone you know who might like to be part of this exciting year group.
Interested families can visit our website for further information on the enrolment process or to enrol online.
Positions Vacant
GREEN POINT CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
A ministry of Green Point Baptist Church
Our mission is 'Equipped for Life'
HEAD OF HSIE - TEACHING POSITION
Permanent Full Time – to commence Term 1 2022
We are currently seeking to appoint an experienced Secondary School Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) teacher to the position of Head of HSIE on a permanent full time basis, to commence Term 1 2022.
For full details and criteria regarding the position, please refer to the full Job Description available on the College website, along with prospectus and application form at at this link.
The successful applicant for the above position must be a committed Christian and be prepared to work under the ethos of our College.
Applications close on Wednesday 8 September 2021 and are to be submitted online via the application form.
________________________________
ENGLISH TEACHING POSITION
Permanent Full Time – to commence Term 1 2022
We are currently seeking to appoint an experienced English teacher able to teach Years 7 – 12 on a permanent full time basis.
To be successful you will need to possess and demonstrate:
- Sound knowledge of the new Australian Curriculum;
- Stage 6 teaching experience is preferable;
- A high standard of competency, proficiency and innovation as a classroom teacher;
- The ability to integrate ICT into the curriculum;
- A capacity to cater for different learning needs;
- Excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and collegiality;
- Good administrative skills, with a high level of flexibility and adaptability;
- An ability to prioritise and work collegially.
For full details and criteria regarding the position, please refer to the full Job Description available on the College website, along with prospectus and application form at this link.
The successful applicant for the above position must be a committed Christian and be prepared to work under the ethos of our College.
Applications close on Friday 3 September 2021 and are to be submitted online via the application form.
_________________________________
ENRICHMENT ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT
Permanent Full Time (during school terms only)
We are currently seeking an Administration Assistant to join our Enrichment team. The successful applicant should possess the following:
- Excellent organisational and time management skills
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Excellent computer and typing skills
- A positive proactive attitude
- Experience working within an education setting would be highly desirable
For full details and criteria regarding the position, please refer to the full Job Description available on the College website, along with prospectus and application form at this link.
The successful applicant for the above position must be a committed Christian and be prepared to work under the ethos of our College.
Applications close on Friday 10 September 2021 and are to be submitted online via the application form.
Yattalunga Valley Christian School (Kinder - Year 2, 2022)
Yattalunga Valley Christian School (YVCS) has gained approval to open in January 2022 starting with 9 or more students in Kindergarten to Year 2. The school will grow each year thereafter in accordance with demand for places.
Yattalunga Valley Christian School (YVCS) recognises that all people are created uniquely and in the image of God, and are precious and valued in His sight; as such YVCS provides a caring Christian environment for students with Autism.
At YVCS we maintain a commitment to work in partnership with families to provide an individualised education plan for each student, using a mixture of one to one and small group instruction and support.
To discuss enrolment at Yattalunga Valley Christian School please contact our Registrar on registrar@gpcc.nsw.edu.au, or view our enrolment information on our website.
Online Learning Pics
Please continue sending your online learning photos in, so we can share with our school community. Please email photos to: newsletter@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Canteen, Uniform Shop
Due to COVID lockdown, both the Canteen and Uniform Shop will not be open until further notice. Uniforms may be ordered online: https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/enrolment/uniform
Uniform Shop (only online ordering during lockdown)
For online ordering: https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/enrolment/uniform
To view pricing from 3 September 2021 visit: Uniform Price List
Munchery News - Canteen is closed during lockdown
EXTEND 2021 (Before and After School Care)
Click here for Extend's August newsletter.
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 Trader
CASE Space Academy - School Holiday Program
Dear Parents
Next school holidays nurture your child’s curiosity in space and STEM with a new and exciting school holiday program.... with your child’s opportunity to take a live tour at a real NASA facility!
Green Point Christian College is pleased to introduce CASE Space Academy, a fun and interactive course designed especially for years 5 to 8. Each 2.5 hour online lesson is hosted live by a CASE Certified course leader to guide curious kids through a range of hands-on science activities, engineering challenges and interactive lessons.
- Design and build your own rover and helicopter to explore Mars
- Design a galactic farm, water filter and solar energy model for your Mars Colony
- Awe-inspiring, authentic space and STEM learning
- Exciting teamwork and the chance to meet new friends
- A fun, safe and nurturing environment with supportive, knowledgeable guides
Supported by NASA experts, this week-long program immerses students in science, technology, engineering and maths through the thrill of real space missions and technologies.
- 10am-12:30pm daily, 27 Sept – 1 Oct 2021
- 9am-11:30am daily, 4 Oct – 8 Oct 2021
Use Green Point Christian College’s promo code CSAGPCNSW to receive course discounts!
- $20 off one course
- $50 cashback when you group purchase three or more courses with friends
CSA Introduction Video - v1.0 on Vimeo
For more information please contact:
Andrew Bosch
m: 0409 803 563
e: andrew.bosch@actura.com.au
w: casespaceacademy.com.au
Kincumber Avoca Cricket Club
With the cricket season fast approaching, all Clubs across the Central Coast are now open for registrations. This presents a fantastic opportunity for students to get outside and active during summer once lockdown has ended. Now more than ever it’s essential that we continue to provide children with the opportunity to live a healthy and active lifestyle. Playing cricket with their local Club is a great way for them to do this. Registrations open at: www.club.griffin.com
If you would like to place an advertisement in the Green Point Trader, please email details to Justine Collins at newsletter@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
Green Point Baptist Church
Everyone is welcome! Green Point Baptist Church Worship Services are currently online on Sundays at 9:30am.
Please go to our website https://www.gpbc.net.au/930am-worship-service/ for details or email office@gpbc.net.au for our Zoom details.
Website: www.gpbc.net.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/greenpointbaps/
Coming up this week
Monday, 6 September
Years 7 - 12 Assembly online - 10:00am streamed online in Equip classes
Year 11 exams Monday, 6 September - Tuesday, 14 September
Wednesday, 8 September
7 - 12 Chapel/Equip/Year Group LIFE online
Primary Chapel online
Term Dates 2021
Term 3, 2021
Monday, 19 July 2021 to Friday, 17 September 2021
Term 4, 2021
Wednesday, 6 October 2021 to Wednesday, 8 December 2021
Term Dates 2022
Term 1, 2022
Thursday, 27 January - (Years 1 - 7, 11 and 12 commence Term 1)
Friday, 28 January - (Years 8 - 10 commence Term 1)
Monday, 31 January - (Kindergarten commence Term 1)
Friday, 8 April - Last Day Term 1
Term 2, 2022
Wednesday, 27 April to Friday, 1 July
Monday, 13 June - Queen's Birthday Public Holiday
Term 3, 2022
Thursday, 21 July to Friday, 23 September
Term 4, 2022
Tuesday, 11 October to Wednesday, 7 December