After what seemed like weeks of gorgeous autumnal sunshine it seems the moment the calendar turned to June the winter weather closed in. The outdoors plays such an important part in our day-to-day interactions at Newhaven. I am always impressed by our students’ ability to embrace whatever outdoor conditions are presented. Even on the coldest of days many students arrive in shorts and short sleeve polos – seemingly oblivious to the arctic conditions.

For myself, the seasons are a reminder of how quickly the school year moves. We have only three weeks left until our mid-year break – and for our Year 12s, their academic year is more than half over. While that realisation can be sobering, I like to think it is a reminder to make sure we make the most of each school day. 

Head of Senior School 

With the retirement of Mr Jason Scott our current Director of Operations, Mr Brett Torstonson, will be stepping into the interim role as Head of Senior School from the commencement of next term.

Brett is in his third year at Newhaven College and brings a wealth of educational experience to the role having held senior positions at St Kevins College, Xavier College and MLC (Methodist Ladies College) in Melbourne.

We wish Brett all the best in this important leadership role.

Commissioning of our College Chaplain 

Last Sunday I was pleased to attend a commissioning service at St John’s Uniting Church in Cowes for our new College Chaplain, Pastor Andre Whitton. Andre is an ordained minister and a member of the congregation at St John’s. A commissioning is a special service to recognise when a person has been called to a particular role in a community. I attended the service along with several student representatives and staff to formally welcome Andre into this important role at our school. I would like to congratulate Andre and thank the congregation of St John’s for welcoming Newhaven College so warmly.

I hope all of our Newhaven families have an enjoyable King’s Birthday long weekend.

In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength

Tony Corr

Principal

Making Progress Visible: Reporting Changes in 2024

In 2023 a group of staff drawn from all sub-schools were part of a strategic innovation project to create assessment and reporting procedures which have increased clarity and focus on growth. The team also looked to improve opportunities for students to formally self assess both their progress towards becoming an independent learner and the story of their effort over time.

Within the Hearts & Minds Strategic Intent there were two highly relevant aspirations to this project: One under the Learning Key and the other under the Innovation Key.

• Providing a personalised approach to learning, enabling every student to flourish.

• Adopting innovative and evidence-based approaches to learning and teaching excellence.

Innovative reporting practices focus on making progress visible and creating a clear and comprehensive picture of a student’s learning journey. In this way we provide an environment where a more personal approach to learning is accessible and visible.

Engaging with feedback is one of the key elements of the Learning Ambition framework. A standards referenced system of reporting and the creation of proficiency scales for mastering learning targets provides a platform for highly targeted and effective feedback which can be enacted and tracked.

Real-time reporting practices through SEQTA provide an accurate and meaningful picture of a student’s strengths and areas for improvement sit at the core of our delivery, which will support teachers to target their instruction more effectively. The team also focused on introducing systems, policies and procedures for re-taking assessment as part of showing students that targeted effort increases achievement.

In 2024 we are pleased to introduce phase one of our new reporting system into the Junior and Middle Schools. The formal report which will be released in Week Eleven of Term Two will show the current standard of skills and knowledge displayed by your child across a variety of learning areas via a plain dot on a continuum. Newhaven College implements the Australian Curriculum, assessing against the achievement standards outlined for each Year Level.

In Years 5-8 there will also be a section where students have self-assessed their learning behaviours in each of their classes. This will sit side by side with the teacher assessment of the same behaviours.

Our main aim

The creation of Learning Partnerships sits at the heart of all we do. We aim for our continuous feedback to ensure that knowledge is shared, discussed and acted upon by students, teachers and families. Our new reporting system will enable progress to be visibly tracked, widely known and easily understood.

Thank you to the project team: Linda Austin, Shona O’Dempsey, Louise Larcombe, Corinne Phillips and Elaine Epifano.

Karen Milkins-Hendry

Director of Learning

Newhaven College's new Chaplain 

As I watched Finding Nemo on TV the other night, I couldn’t help but feel empathy for Marlin and Dory as they found themselves out of water, floundering (excuse the pun) on a jetty somewhere in Sydney harbour and confronted with a situation which to them must have been terrifying as they looked certain death in the eye.

My wife Ruth and I moved to Cowes from Red Cliffs in NW Victoria about 3 years ago. We had been living in Red Cliffs for 31 years and raised our 6 children there, we both felt the same, this chapter of our lives was ending, the next chapter was about to begin. Ruth had lived in this area as a child and had attended Newhaven College in its first year. Moving to Cowes, for her, was like coming home. She has been teaching at Newhaven now for over 2 years.

Having worked in pastoral care for around 30 years, and as a school Chaplain for the last 9 years, I really wanted to continue in the work I love. When the opportunity presented itself to fill the role of Chaplain at Newhaven College at the start of 2024, I didn’t hesitate.

On Sunday 2 June, I was commissioned at a service at St John’s Uniting Church, Cowes, as Chaplain of Newhaven College. I felt honoured as members of the school leadership and student body participated in the ceremony.

Why the reference to Finding Nemo? Well, like most new jobs, feeling like a fish out of water is certainly part of it. The “looking certain death in the eye”, maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but it can be a bit scary. The acceptance, warmth and friendship I have experienced in the short time I have been at Newhaven College has helped to make me feel at home. I can honestly say that I no longer feel like a fish out of water, but like a fish in an amazing environment which I am enjoying exploring as I get to know more of our incredible students, parents and staff day by day.

Andre Whitton

Chaplain

Walk for Reconciliation

National Reconciliation Week was 27 May - 3 June. At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians. The National Reconciliation Week 2024 theme is ‘Now More Than Ever’.

At Newhaven College Reconciliation Week has been recognised by a number of events throughout the school including assembly items, pledges and activities. This was highlighted by our whole school joining together on the Long Walk this morning as a sign of support and solidarity for the reconciliation movement. Year 8 student, River Hume a Boonwurrung of the Yallock-Bullock clan, welcomed everyone to Country before the walk commenced.

This year’s theme of ‘Now More Than Ever’ is a reminder to all Australians that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of First Nations peoples will, and must, continue. It encourages us to question ourselves and to reflect on our actions and our words to ensure we are using our voices for truth-telling and building strong communities.

We thank all the students, staff and parents who came along. 

IDAHOBIT Celebrations

On Friday 17 May the Rainbow Haven Club celebrated IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia) Day and took the opportunity to raise over $400 for Minus 18 with a sausage sizzle and bake sale. Minus 18 is an incredible organisation working with young LGBTQIA+ people to build awareness, provide training workshops and life-affirming programs.

Go to the Minus 18 website for more information.

Thank you to everyone who helped out on the day.

Student Teacher Study Tour

A strategic workforce planning initiative in partnership with Ecumenical Schools Australia (ESE) and Leisa Lomax, Human Resources Manager provided an opportunity to showcase Newhaven College to 13 students from Melbourne University undertaking a study tour while completing their third or final year Bachelor of Education. This authentic experience leads the way for potential student placements, potential teaching careers at Newhaven College and to spread the word that Newhaven College is a great place for your Teaching career.

The students met with Tony Corr, Principal and the College Leadership Team. The students had a College tour, interacted with our students and teachers in action and had a guided tour with Leisa Lomax of our beautiful landscape and local area where our College resides, showcasing our Bass Coast, at the Nobbies Centre. 

The students commented that Newhaven College was an authentic and valuable experience and a highlight before travelling back to Melbourne.

Leisa Lomax

Human Resources Manager

From Student to Teacher  

Newhaven College 2019 alum, Luke Nicholson, has progressed from student to teacher in only a few years. Luke is a first-year teacher, fresh out of university. He formally graduated on Thursday 16 May from Monash University with a Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Secondary Education. His degree took 4 years, including the writing of a research paper and the completion of 80 placement days. At the moment, he predominantly teaches Year 9 Mathematics and Science as well as Year 11 Chemistry. After a quick conversation with Luke, he describes the ample support he has received by all Newhaven College staff and he thanks them all for their continued guidance. 

At the ripe age of 23, Luke is our youngest teacher employed at Newhaven College. His approachable nature means students of all ages feel comfortable when speaking to him. He looks forward to developing into the best teacher he can possibly be.

Parents and Friends Association Report

Along with the rest of the school, the PFA are excited about the opportunities the new MTB Pump Track presents to our students and the wider community. On behalf of the PFA, Kay Kondarios, PFA Treasurer, presented a $1,000 cheque to the MTB club to put towards bike trailer for students to attend excursions and camps. 

School Fete

The school fete is one of the main PFA-led events in the school calendar and will be held this year, on 8 November 2024. We are on the lookout for community members that can help coordinate (with the support of the PFA) a craft and plant stall. If you would like to help, please don't hesitate to reach out!

Second hand uniforms

Do you have school uniforms that your children have outgrown? This year, we will have a second hand uniform stall at our school fete and we invite donations to the stall. Any donations may be left at reception or alternately, please email the PFA for collection.

Parents and Friends Association Facebook Group

The PFA have started a new Facebook group: Newhaven College Parents and Friends Association | Facebook

This group is for sharing general school updates, PFA led event information, sports and extra-curricular activities of interest to students and for giving shout-outs to people and businesses in the community that have supported our events. Feel free to join our group to be kept up to date!

Questions?

If you have any questions or would like to register your details to volunteer at future events, do not hesitate to reach out to us at newhaven.pfa@gmail.com

Angel Chambers

President | Parents and Friends Association

Come along and join the fun for a good cause...

Year 12 Leadership invite the whole school community to come along for a fun night of trivia, prizes and a silent auction to raise funds for the Cancer Council. Get a group of 8 together and join in the fun. BYO food, with soft drinks available to purchase. This is a non-alcohol event.

Bookings open now

This term has been incredibly productive, marked by growth, learning and memorable experiences. As we look ahead, we have an exciting lineup of events and activities planned to further enrich the learning experience of our students. This week, students will have the opportunity to meet their new Year 9 peer tutors. Additionally, they have been enthusiastically tending to our winter crop and nurturing the vegetable patch. The revamped rock pit has quickly become a popular spot and with an array of lunchtime clubs on the go, there will be no shortage of opportunities for our Junior School students to explore new interests and expand their horizons.

Strong Routines and Positive Attitudes

Throughout this term, our students have been demonstrating a commitment to excellence in their learning endeavours. From mastering new concepts in mathematics to exploring the natural world in science, our Junior School classes have completed a huge amount of learning across all subjects. It is lovely to see so many students display such a positive attitude towards school life.

End of Semester Report Changes in the Junior School

Starting this semester, we will adopt a progress-based reporting system. Our teachers have been diligently aligning our assessment practices with the Australian Curriculum Standards to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your child's progress. This will be shared with you in Semester One Reports. Please refer to Karen Milkins-Hendry's report in the General News section of this newsletter for more details.

Extracurricular Achievements

Beyond the classroom, our students have participated in various extracurricular activities. District Cross Country was held a few weeks ago, with a huge line up. Congratulations to Jett Fawaz, Cooper Bennet and Fletcher Hennessy who made it through to the next level of competition. Congratulations to Andre Whitton, our school Chaplain, who was commissioned at St. John’s Uniting Church on Sunday. Thank you to Leith Cameron, Edward Lee and Eden Hallas who proudly represented our Junior School at this special event.

Junior School Disco

To celebrate the end of term, the Year 9 students have organised a Junior School Disco. On this day, all Junior School students are invited to attend school out of uniform and in free dress.

When: Friday 28 June during Period 4.

Where: The Pavilion & Canteen

Cost: $5.00 per student (each student will receive a bottle of water and glow sticks)

Nightly Work Habits

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all parents and guardians for your continued support and collaboration. Your involvement in your child's education is invaluable. As the term draws to a close, we eagerly anticipate celebrating and recognising students who consistently demonstrate strong reading habits at home.

Cath Huther

Head of Junior School

Year 4 Excursion to Candowie Reservoir

On Friday 24 May our Year 4 students visited the source of our local water supply, Candowie Reservoir. The children spent over an hour touring in and around the treatment plant, guided by welcoming and knowledgeable Westernport Water staff. The children developed their knowledge of the water cycle and the processes of precipitation, evaporation and condensation in the context of this large water source. They also gained an understanding of how water reaches our homes and the work Westernport Water is currently undertaking on the Phillip Island bridge. 

We thank Katrina, Dean, Sam and Matt from Westernport Water for sharing their expertise and parents Emily van der Walt and Laura McCabe for attending the excursion with us.

Kate Middleton

Year 4 Teacher

Junior School Choir

The Junior School Assembly area was filled with joyful singing on Wednesday this week as they rehearsed their favourite songs. They were under the guidance of Director of Music Matthew Goss and supported on piano by Carmel Slater.

We look forward to hearing the choir perform at the upcoming Spring Concert.

Merit Awards

Congratulations to the students in the following photo who were presented with their Merit Awards and recognised at Junior School Assembly from Term 1 and last week.

Middle School Communication

Effective communication between school and home is crucial in fostering an environment where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. At the heart of our educational philosophy is the principle of deeply knowing each young person, honouring and enriching their unique learning paths, and ensuring effective teaching in every classroom. This principle underpins our commitment to enhancing student growth and ensuring that each student enters school feeling safe, happy and prepared to engage in learning.

To this end, the collaboration between school and home cannot be overstated. When educators and parents work together, we create a cohesive support system that addresses both academic and social-emotional needs. Recently, our discussions with students have highlighted the importance of addressing social-emotional learning during extended home group sessions. Specifically, we are focusing on online and in person calling out wrong conduct, combating name-calling, offensive language, bullying and other unacceptable behaviours in Middle School.

Our strategy involves encouraging students to collaborate on projects that address these issues. By working together to create presentations on the impact of unkind behaviour, students not only become more aware of the consequences of their actions but also learn the value of empathy, respect and community. This inclusive approach not only raises awareness but also empowers students to take an active role in fostering a positive school environment.

Parents play a vital role in reinforcing these lessons at home. Encouraging your child to discuss their internet use with you is an excellent way to stay informed about their online activities and guide them in navigating the digital world safely. Discuss the risks of social media before they join any sites or download any apps. It is fundamental to help them understand that anything they upload, email or message can have a lasting consequence online.

By maintaining open lines of communication between school and home, we can collectively support our students in their academic and personal development.

Below is the Middle School Communication Flowchart. I encourage you to follow the steps when you have a concern, question, or feedback.

Year 5 & 6 Band Showcase

It was wonderful to see so many family members turn up and support the students at the recent Year 5 & 6 Band Showcase. The students performed brilliantly and displayed what they had been learning during the term.

A big well done to all the students for their hard work and dedication. Special thanks to the music teachers for their support and encouragement.

The upcoming long weekend, thanks to report writing and the King’s birthday, is a timely break. We encourage all students and staff to rest and recharge, so we can finish the term on a positive note.

Ralph Arceo

Head of Middle School

Middle School Assembly - getting students thinking

Year 8 Presentation on social media use’s impact on mental health

At Middle School assembly last week, Year 8 students Mia Bowtell, Phoebe Helps, Yasmin Gloria and Isabella Stead made a thoughtful presentation about the use of social media and how it can impact your mental and physical health. Supported by MS Wellbeing Captain Tierlin Hamley and Counsellor Christina Aitken the girls offered some suggestions about limiting social media use.

Mia introduced the presentation, “It is very common for people to use social media in their daily lives. While it offers a platform for connection and community, its influence on our mental health can be dangerous. It can also result in countless wasted hours of ‘Doom Scrolling’ on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. The pressure to compare ourselves to others, with ‘seemingly perfect’ online lives can lead to anxiety, depression, FOMO (fear of missing out), and a distorted sense of reality. This complicated relationship between social media and mental health is a topic that can impact our well-being.

“According to the Common Sense Media, 42% of kids have a phone by the age of 10. Today, 93% of teenagers are actively using social media platforms daily. Although there are important benefits of social media, it can also provide platforms for cyberbullying and exclusion.”

The girls provided some great suggestions on lowering the impact of social media on your life. Turn your notifications off or turn on ‘do not disturb’, especially when studying or sleeping, put your phone out of your bedroom overnight, set time limits on your Social Media Apps, don’t ‘friend’ anyone you don’t know in person, make sure you get outside and have a break hanging out with your friends.

Respect and Empathy

Middle School Wellbeing Captain, Tierlin Hamley, spoke about two important school values, "Over the last few weeks, Middle School has been focusing on respect and empathy, two important school values that help us to get along with each other and feel safe at school. The words we use are powerful. They can leave us feeling hopeful, happy, full of potential, or they can leave us feeling disappointed, hurt. What we say to each other and to ourselves matters. Wherever you are right now as you’re reading this, I invite you to speak out an affirmation."

Christina Aitken, College Counsellor, spoke to the assembly about kindness and using good words to others and to yourself. "No matter what, I am worthy of kindness and love. Even if these words don’t exactly match what we are thinking right now, just saying them can help us shift and feel more positive about ourselves."

After assembly, students got together in their House mentor groups to create some games around the topic of kindness and empathy. The project allowed students to discuss how much other people's words can impact them, and how they can all work at being more kind and empathetic to others.

As the Year 10 and 11 Examinations conclude, students are looking forward to the final three weeks of Semester One. It has been an exciting time, and this edition of the newsletter celebrates so many events and student achievements across Senior School. 

Congratulations to our Youth Parliament Bill who have finalised their Criminalising Coercive Control as a Stand-Alone Offence Bill 2024. They are now ready to present this Bill during the Youth Parliament sitting days on Monday 1, Tuesday 2 and Thursday 4 July. Students, parents and staff are welcome to attend the Victorian Parliament during this time to observe our team in action. Our team of Miranda Zalunardo, Keegan Hughes, Gabriel Winterson and Gabriel Di Falco has been identified as one of the strongest and best prepared of the 20 teams that have entered the competition. During the week-long program, they will be refuting another strong team from Ivanhoe Grammar. A very special congratulations to Gabriel Di Falco who was nominated and elected by his peers at the training weekend as Chamber Leader – a great honour and achievement!

Jason Scott 

Vice Principal and Head of Senior School

Projects Abroad Cambodia Service Trip 

Twelve students from Years 10 and 11 are excitedly preparing for their service trip to Cambodia over the upcoming school holiday period. Students will be volunteering in a Cambodian school where they will teach classes each day to help improve the English language skills of the Cambodian children.

As part of the trip, the group will also have the chance to learn about Cambodian culture, visit temples and significant sites and enjoy the local cuisine. This is Newhaven’s first trip partnering with Projects Abroad and will provide the opportunity for those participating to offer support to a developing community with far fewer resources than we have in Australia.

The group have been fundraising at school by selling sausages at sporting events as well as a "Guess How Many Lollies are in the Jar" competition. With this money, it is hoped to purchase much needed resources and supplies for the Cambodian school and students.

The students will be accompanied by Fiona Smart and Principal Tony Corr.

Fiona Smart

Project Support Teacher

Year 11 & 12 Careers Seminar

Our students are approaching a future with more career diversity than ever before. As part of our annual Careers Seminar, Year 11 & 12 students had the opportunity to hear from a group of highly experienced individuals from a diverse range of fields. The purpose of the afternoon was to showcase a range of industry speakers highlighting their career journey, education and training requirements, and career challenges.

We thank our Newhaven College community members who shared their passion and insights with students.

Dan Courtney – MDC Building Group

Trish Briggs – Business Corporate Sector: Head of Community – Target & Kmart

Dr Jo Hatch – Clinical (Child) Psychology & Social Work

Daniel Morse – Data, Analytics & Artificial Intelligence

Amy McHenry – Paramedic Ambulance Victoria

Catherine Basterfield – CEO Phillip Island Nature Parks

Anthea Bennett

Head of Careers

Halfway point for Year 12

This morning, the Senior School House Leaders put on a morning tea for our Year 12s. 

It was a welcome chance to relax and get together after a busy and stressful few weeks of SACS and assessment. As the final SACS are completed, our Year 12s are half way through their final year of schooling.

It was a fun morning with lots of laughs, enthusiasm and a welcome reprieve before the English SAC later today. A big thank you to Sambell House Leader Cam Pederson who organized the catering.

Senior School House Leaders

Road Safety & Schools - Year 11 RYDA Workshop

Road safety is a significant health, safety and wellbeing issue. On 21 June our Year 11 students will be participating in a RYDA Workshop. 

Professionally developed by Road Safety Education Limited, RYDA is essential education for young drivers and their passengers at just the right time in their lives. The Workshop features a series of practical and powerful sessions that challenge students and lay the foundation for safe road use throughout their lives. 

Facilitators work with students to develop and practise personalised strategies and life skills which will help them respond positively to challenges on the road, both as drivers and highly influential passengers.

For more information click here.

Year 9 City Cite

Making a Difference in the City

Year 9 students recently completed an impactful 8-day program at City Cite in Melbourne's CBD. Their time was filled with diverse experiences, from gaining insights into the justice system at the Magistrates Court (including a meeting with the Chief Magistrate) to witnessing government firsthand at Parliament House, where they even had the opportunity to chat with our local MP Jordan Crugnale during a break. Students also conquered their fears with a thrilling visit to the Eureka Skydeck.

But City Cite went beyond just sightseeing. It provided students with valuable opportunities to make a real difference. Visits to The Big Issue and talks from diverse guest speakers broadened their understanding of community issues and social responsibility. A true highlight was their work in the FareShare kitchens, where they played a crucial role in creating 2,500 ready-made meals and preparing ingredients for thousands more. This hard work will ensure nutritious food reaches those in need.

Sharing Learning and Looking Ahead

Students showcased their City Cite experiences with engaging presentations back at school. The winning presentation from each home group impressed a panel of judges, with 9K ultimately taking home the community games points in a close competition.

Year 9 is far from finished! In the coming weeks, students will dive into new community projects. They'll be visiting Grossard Court Aged Care, participating in the Cows Create Careers program, contributing to further mountain bike trail building, and offering their tutoring skills to the junior school.

On June 18th, the excitement continues with a trip to Korumburra for the Year 9 Careers Expo. Term 2 wraps up with a celebration of school spirit through Community Games and House Singing.

Sam Foura

Head of Year 9

CUC Bass Coast visit Year 9

Newhaven College was the first cab off the rank with the Country Universities Centre (CUC) 'Future Bound' program for Bass Coast Secondary Colleges. The program aims to demystify University, start career conversations with current CUC students and help Year 9 students to start thinking about their post-secondary school aspirations and funded as part of the Regional Partnerships Project Pool (RPPPP). 

For more information about CUC Bass Coast, visit the website.

One Stoplight Town 

Our VCE Theatre Studies performed a short play last Friday night in the Black Box Theatre. The play was One Stoplight Town by Tracy Wells. The students each took on two production roles drawn from Acting, Directing, Costume Design, Sound Design, Make-up design, Set Design, Props Design, Lighting Design as part of meeting course requirements. 

The class acted as a mini theatre company and navigated the challenges of creative differences, tight timelines and resource management. The team worked collaboratively and committed to producing an entertaining short play drawing on the themes of the cycles of life as lived in a small town. 

Congratulations to all involved.

Careers Newsletter

Please be sure to check out this month's Career News. 

Key highlights include:

• Upcoming Events and Open Days
• Important Future Events
• Scholarships

Anthea Bennett

Head of Careers

Year 10 Art

Year 10 art students have been studying acrylic and oil painting techniques. The two disciplines are very different, so their approach to each has been very different.

The class was given a choice on the subject matter they wished to paint and then set about trying to source a reference image to work from. Our stronger students simply took something from their imagination and applied it to the general theme of Still Life.

The talent in this cohort is outstanding.

Sian Adnam

Art Teacher

VCE Soiree

On Wednesday 22 May, our Year 11 & 12 VCE students performed for teachers, family and their peers in the Black Box Theatre. The close environment creates an intimate 'blues club' feel and the students encouraged each other through their performances.

Performing on the night were Archie Robson (Electric Guitar), Mackenzie Cameron (Bagpipes), Gabriel Di Falco (Classical Guitar), Eddie Kratz (Electric & Classical Guitar), Leela Tran (Voice), Cecily de Gooyer (Voice) and Jasmine Turton (Voice), plus duo Callan Spencer (Bass Guitar) and Liam Fuery (Drums). Special thanks go to Jemilla Prideaux and Nissa Campbell Walker for their backing vocals.

With more Soiree's on the calendar, we are looking forward to hearing more of our talented students perform.

Top Acts Performance by The Dropkicks

Newhaven has a proud tradition of our students being invited to perform at the state-level Top Class showcase concerts for VCE & VET Music. But this year, for the first time in Newhaven history, Esta Christensen, Dean Lyle, Callan Spencer and Liam Fuery’s band, The Dropkicks, were one of just six musical acts selected from forty Top Class performers, to perform at Top Acts.

This peak performing arts event was held at the Melbourne Recital Centre on 28 May and showcased the absolute best of the musicians, actors and dancers from across all Victorian schools who completed a VCE subject in 2023. The audience loved The Dropkick’s high energy performance of their original song, I Don’t Think. The event organisers commented on what a delight they were to work with, displaying exceptional professionalism and character.

We couldn’t be more proud.

Watch them in action. 

Rob Turton

VET Music Teacher

Briana Leaman Performance and Masterclass

The Music That Made Us. On 16 May, we were delighted to welcome American-Australian oboist Briana Leaman, PhD for an intimate performance in the Black Box Theatre. Before the performance, our Year 5 students were treated to a workshop with Briana, with a number of students trying the oboe for the first time. Briana has performed and taught throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

It was a real honour to have her visit us.

Seussical the Musical!

This weekend is your last chance to join some of our fabulous staff and current and former students as they take a dive into the sumptuous imagination of Dr Seuss.  ‘Seussical’ the musical is staged by the Wonthaggi Theatrical Group. A musical for all ages, this wild, visual romp with a musical score giving you ‘all the feels’ weaves some of the best loved Dr Seuss stories together in new and unexpected ways. Playing at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre until Sunday 9 June, this show guarantees a few hours where you can give yourself over to a magical world where kindness and humanity prevail in the most entertaining of ways.

It's a family affair for the Pedersens, with much-loved Year 2 Teacher, Sarah Pedersen playing the lazy and self-obsessed Mayzie Bird, and three of her four daughters (Charlee, Ruby and Lucy) performing in the ensemble cast.

Book Now!

Newhaven College performers include:

Front: Elaine Epifano, Tilly Stecher, Ella Osbourne, Sarah Pedersen, Charlie Swan, Lucas White

Back: Lucy Pedersen, Sage van der Walt, Sophia Hardy, Ella Sibson, Ruby Pedersen, Charlee Pedersen, Matilda Abraham-Williams, Finn Campbell Walker

An evening not to be missed...

MTB Pump Track Officially Opened!

Since the start of the year, Mountain Biking has been incorporated into our College sports program in Grades 5 and 6, plus it is one of our SM offerings in Years 7 and 8. Students have continued to participate in competitions around the state and we have brought in specialist coaches to assist with their development.

On Saturday 25 May, the College community came together to celebrate all the hard work put into the construction of mountain biking infrastructure at the College. The College was honoured to welcome alum and Olympian Drew Ginn OAM to open the pump track. As a rower, Drew was a four time Olympian and triple Olympic gold medallist, including being a member of the famous 'Oarsome Foursome'. Drew was also an elite cyclist and keen mountain biker and is thrilled to see the sport being embraced by the Newhaven community.

Drew was born in Leongatha and raised in Inverloch. As a child, Drew loved BMX, surfing, and running. His first serious competitive experiences started in BMX with the opportunity to race at international levels. At 15 years of age Drew was introduced to rowing and came to international prominence at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta where he joined Mike McKay, James Tomkins and Nick Green in the coxless four and played an integral role in the Oarsome Foursome, as the crew was famously known, winning their second successive gold medal. After missing the 2000 Olympics due to a severe back injury Drew returned to the Olympics in 2004 to win gold, and then added another gold in Beijing in 2008. The 2012 London Olympics was Drew’s swansong, and with a new crew won silver in his fourth Olympics. In 2018 Drew was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.

We thank all of our Mountain Bike parents, families and volunteers who conducted two working bees, as well as lots of volunteer time in between, to construct the pump track, plus 500 metres of flow track around the campus. Special thanks to Eve Hollole, Michael Wright and all of our hard-working parents who have made this possible.

The Pump Track Opening and Fundraiser event included 75 student and parent riders competing in different challenges,  a sausage sizzle and a bake sale. The proceeds raised will be put toward a 20-bike vertical rack MTB trailer to help take the program offsite to excursions and camps. 

Senior Boys Basketball 

On Wednesday 15 May the Senior Boys Basketball Team went to Frankston Basketball Stadium to compete in the U20 Victorian College Championships. This was a reward for winning the SEISA Championship in Term 1. 

The day did not start well coming up against a very strong Flinders College team who were well drilled and big bodied. Some poor shooting did not help the Spoonbills' cause. Round 1 was a 35-19 loss. The next game was a tight affair to the end against Wellington Secondary College. The Spoonbills almost threw away a lead in the final seconds but held their nerve to register their first win for the day. Win 30-28. The Round 3 match was against Woodleigh School. The Newhaven Spoonbills led from start to finish with a very professional but not always polished performance. The result was a 29-24 win. It came down to the final match for a place in the final. The opposition in Round 4 was Beaumaris Secondary College. They were a tall and athletic team, egged on by a very passionate and vocal coach. The game was a tight affair with Beaumaris just pulling away towards the end and allowing them a place in the final instead of the Newhaven Spoonbills. 

I would like to thank the team for their dedication and attitude towards all the games. It has been a pleasure coaching and working with these students. It was a great day out and a special mention to the Year 12s who have now played their final basketball matches for the College. Hopefully, we can go a step further next year!

Senior Boys Basketball Team: Leo Savona, Anthony Petropoulos, Sonny McMillan, Isaac Savona, Bailey Hennessy, Finn O’Brien, Yianni Caffieri, Lucas Allen.

Stewart Bathgate

Head of Year 7-12 Sport

Year 5 & 6 District Netball Competition

Last Friday, 27 Year 5 and 6 girls participated in the District Netball competition in Wonthaggi. The 3 teams of girls all looked sensational in the new Newhaven College netball dresses. One team competed in the A competition and 2 teams in the B section.

The A team came out strong, winning the first 4 games, showcasing some incredible netball skills as well as outstanding sportsmanship. It all came down to the final game, the decider, between St Joseph's and Newhaven College. St Joe's goalers were just too good, taking the win.

The B teams played 4 games each throughout the day, the smiles on the girls' faces showed just how much fun they were having as well as how much it meant to them to be playing netball and representing their school. The team chants before each game got louder throughout the day, with the girls clearly enjoying the experience.

A big thank you to Year 12 student Heidi Driscoll for coaching a team on the day and to Year 8 students Marasai O’Keefe, Ava Blake, Isabella Stead, Maisie van der Walt and Millie Thom for umpiring.

Charlotte Bassed and Donna Driscoll

Middle School Teachers

District Football Carnival

On Friday 31 May, our 5/6 Boys Footballers competed in the District Carnival in Wonthaggi. Lead by Aiden Smith and Will Patton, the boys did themselves and the school proud. They went unbeaten through the group stages, defeating Wonthaggi PS, Newhaven PS, Cowes B and Wonthaggi North PS; advancing to the final. 

They came up against a tough opponent in the final with Bass Valley PS. The boys fought hard and linked up well as a team. Their composure under pressure and ability to work together was commendable. As their coach, I was beyond impressed with their footballing efforts, their comradery, support of one another and their display of graciousness. They should all be proud of their efforts, and I look forward to taking on our next round of opponents in a couple of weeks at the Divisional event.

Thanks also to the Year 8 students who umpired on the day, I received several pieces of positive feedback about not only the umpiring but positive contributions to the day.

To all the families that attended, you certainly made the boys smiles stretch that little bit further. Thanks for the support.

Matt Jackson

Physical Education Teacher

VSAC Swimming Championships 

Earlier this term, eight Newhaven College swimmers were selected to represent SEISA Schools at the Victoria School Associations Competition (VSAC) Swimming Championships. This event represents the pinnacle of inter-school swimming competitions in the state. SEISA was proudly represented by Kaela Welsh, Max Brocklesby, Billy Fisher, Isabella Lynch, Maggie Fisher, Lara Smyth, Archie Smyth, Cormac Flynn and Jasmine Ruffin. 

All of our Newhaven College athletes swam superbly across the evening and competed against some of the strongest teenage swimmers in the state. We as a school are very proud of their efforts and they should all be congratulated for not only their competitive spirit, but also their fine displays of athleticism on the night.

Brett Torstonson

Director of Operations

Equestrian News

As we head into winter and the days are drawing in, the Newhaven College Equestrian Team is busy keeping their mounts warm, fed and at work. Members are out competing as well as enjoying each other’s company while riding together at training days and competitions.

Isla Mclean and her pony Oliver competed at the Horseland Interschool Combined Training Day. Isla was so proud of Oliver as he completed a clean dressage test and then with a clear show jump round finished up in 3^rd place in a large field of combinations.

Olivia Curtain competed on three mounts at Round 2 of the Petstock Interschool Show Jumping Championships. Olivia was the only Newhaven College representative at this competition of 117 combinations with 352 rounds ridden on the day. She rode with such skill that she single handedly put Newhaven College into 3^rd place for the Schools Championship. This is an outstanding achievement. Olivia rode her brand new horse Ngahiwi Lady Blu in the Advanced Section of the competition to finish 4^th in that championship. She rode Xcella and Yalambi’s Luciana in the Aspiring Section to finish as Reserve Champion on Xcella and 3^rd in the championship on Yalambi’s Luciana.

Finally, later in May, the team enjoyed riding together under the expert guidance of FEI Coach and Newhaven College Alumni, Matt Archibald. Meeting at the Phillip Island Pony Club Grounds, team members received expert instruction in dressage and riding over obstacles to work on suppleness and flexion with their ponies. Matt used a set up of obstacles to teach riders more about striding between trot poles, bounces and jumps. This kind of training improves all styles of riding as horse and rider are challenged to maintain dressage focus and suppleness while riding through poles and grids.

Students from Middle and Senior School, who are riders and horse owners, are encouraged to participate in training days and interschool equestrian competitions by contacting Mrs Price via email or direct message.

Amanda Price

Equestrian Coordinator

Our Surf Lifesavers applauded

The Woolamai Beach Surf Lifesaving Club celebrated their volunteers this month, with many Newhaven College current and former students awarded for their efforts.

Sophia Hungerford won the award for most improved member, for her dedication to surf lifesaving. Jack Ryan, Charlotte and Jasira Derham were part of the Hellfish Patrol that was awarded patrol of the year. Also in attendance were Newhaven College students  Chloe Hosking, Lilli O’Loughlin, Jasira Derham, Kadek Humphries, Finlay Cameron, Parker Trappett and River Henderson. 

The College community should be proud of the skill and commitment each of our students give each week to this community work.

Titled Surf Academy - Year 10 Elective - New this year!

The Bronze Medallion Pathway teaches students to go through all of the Bronze medallion skills in practical and theory sessions at school. When they finish they can become active members of Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club. Check out the video of the students try out an Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) at Cape Woolamai.

Ben Clark

Head of Surf Academy

Contact Newhaven College

Address: 1770 Phillip Island Road, Phillip Island VIC 3923