RALPH ARCEO
Head of Middle School

Welcome back to another exciting year! As we embark on this journey together, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all Middle School students, parents and staff.

In my welcome to the students and staff, I expressed my sentiments of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming year. I emphasised the importance of approaching this new year with a positive attitude and optimism. As we step into Middle School, we all carry with us a clean slate, ready to inscribe it with our achievements, growth and shared experiences.

To our Year 8 students, I reminded them that regardless of their formal leadership roles, each of them holds a crucial position as leaders within our Middle School community. Their conduct, demeanour and commitment to excellence serve as guiding lights for their peers. From wearing the uniform with pride to demonstrating manners, every action contributes to the success of Middle School life.

I’m delighted with all Middle School students for their commendable and positive start. Your dedication to organisation, responsibility and participation sets a remarkable standard for us all. Let’s continue to prioritise having fully charged laptops, prepared books and wearing correct uniforms daily. Remember, hats are compulsory during terms 1 and 4, so parents, please assist us by ensuring your child brings their hat to school each day.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the recent 5/6 House Swimming Carnival. It was a day of spirited competition, sportsmanship, and camaraderie, and it wouldn't have been possible without the enthusiastic participation of students! Special recognition goes to our House Captains for their leadership and enthusiasm and our Year 9 students for their assistance in ensuring the smooth running of the day.

Likewise, the 7-12 House Swimming Carnival was a massive success, with outstanding student attendance. This event provided a valuable opportunity for our students to connect with their peers across different year levels, fostering a sense of unity and community within our school. It was a day filled with healthy competition, fun, connection, participation and House spirit.

Another round of appreciation goes out to all involved in the Year 7 Transition Day. From engaging beach activities to enjoyable bowling sessions, it was heartening to witness our new students seamlessly integrate into our school community.

I want to acknowledge the work, care and support of the Middle School staff, in particular the House Leaders – Melanie Flower, Lachlan Gale, Melissa McMillan and Donna Driscoll.

I would like to thank all parents for their patience and cooperation during the school closure this week. It was a challenging time during which we had limited lines of communication open to us.

As we begin our journey through this year, let’s hold onto the spirit of connection, unity, resilience and respect which I hope will define our Middle School community.

Dates to remember:

School Photos Wednesday 21 February

Year 7 Camp Lyrebird Park Tuesday 5 – Friday 8 March

Labour Day Public Holiday Monday 11 March

Year 5 Camp Sovereign Hill Wednesday 13 – Fri 15 March

Year 5 NAPLAN Writing Wednesday 13 March

NAPLAN Testing Window 15 – 27 March

Ralph Arceo

Head of Middle School

Year 7 Transition Day

Year 7 Transition Day is designed to help Year 7 students get to know each other, their teachers and mentors. It is a long run tradition at Newhaven College and a crucial part of starting Year 7. The students spent the whole day on the beach playing team building games as well as time at the Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling playing pool, table tennis, laser strike and bowling. Also a fantastic BBQ lunch prepared by our teachers.

What a fabulous way to get to know your fellow Year 7 House groups. They are settling in well and are looking forward to the year ahead.