In this Issue
From the Principal
I am writing this article the day before I depart with twelve students on Newhaven’s inaugural Cambodia service trip with Projects Abroad. Whilst the trip will run during the school holidays it will be far from a vacation for those of us attending. Our itinerary is very busy, the main focus being teaching English in a school in Phnom Penh. For several months, the students attending have been preparing lesson plans and activities, as well as fundraising for resources for the school.
As an independent school we have the benefit of a three week break in the middle of the year. As a school, the break provides us with an opportunity to offer our students an immersion experience overseas. I am hoping this Cambodia service trip will be an experience we can offer our students in the future.
Seeing a family film these holidays?
The recent release of the Disney Pixar animated film Inside Out 2 has created much discussion in educational circles – most of it positive. Whilst the 2015 original film explored the emotions of a child through animated personification – this sequel depicts the rollercoaster of a teenager’s emotional journey. While there is always a risk in the simplification of complex and nuanced emotions and feelings – such as anxiety and depression – the film has been commended for bringing out into the open many of the social and personal challenges of adolescence that young people, and by association their parents, grapple with. It also rightly represents negative emotions as integral to growth and as normal experiences. If you and your children are looking for a film to see these holidays I would encourage you to consider taking them to Inside Out 2.
Staff Farewells
With the end of semester we also farewell some valuable staff and thank them for their contribution to our school. I would personally like to recognise the efforts of Mr Jason Scott who is retiring after 15 years as Vice Principal and Head of Senior School. In my time as Principal at the College Jason has been an invaluable support and confidante. Mrs Barb Blair, who is currently on long service leave, has made the decision to finish her time at Newhaven after 23 years in multiple administrative roles including Music Secretary and Junior School Administration. Barb has been a loyal and committed staff member who will be missed by her many friends at the school. Finally, our Main Receptionist, Salome Rapson, is concluding her time. Salome has been a warm and friendly face of the school and is highly regarded by her many colleagues for her friendly demeanour and professionalism. I wish each of these departing staff the very best for the future.
I would like to thank all of our Newhaven families for their support during this semester. I hope you and your family enjoy the break and return rejuvenated for third term.
In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength
Tony Corr
Principal
College News
School Uniform Shop Opening Hours over the school holidays
Monday 15 July 1.00pm – 4.00pm
Thursday 18 July 9.00am – 12.00pm
Monday 22 July 1.00pm – 4.00pm
Thursday 25 July 8.30am – 12.00pm (normal trade resumes)
Remember... the uniform shop is now located under the canteen, in the pavilion building.
Melbourne Cup Visit
Today Newhaven College was thrilled to welcome Representatives from the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and the prestigious Lexus Melbourne Cup. Our equestrian star, Gabe Smith, along with some professional visiting riders, put on a magnificent display to welcome the Cup, at the Year 9 centre grounds. Gabe has represented Newhaven College in interschool showjumping championships. He is due to fly out to Paris in the coming weeks to compete in the Mounted Games in Paris. This highly competitive and specialised sport is a sight to see. Mounting the horse at full gallop and high speed racing are all part of this incredible sport.
The Cup was accompanied by racing legend and Lexus Melbourne Cup Ambassador Joe Agresta. The Cup visited the Junior School which gave our younger students (and some teachers) a thrill.
We thank VRC for visiting Newhaven. It was such an honour!
Trivia Night!
On Friday 14 June, an enthusiastic crowd gathered at The Collect in Middle School to play trivia and raise funds for the College Charity for 2024, the Cancer Council.
Our College Captains ran the night providing lots of tricky trivia questions. The fun continued through the night, with a silent auction including a team autographed Collingwood jersey.
College Captain, Tom Bird, spoke on behalf of the Year 12 Leadership, "We are really happy with the success of our trivia night. It was great to see so many year 12 students, their families, and staff members come to support us on the night. We would like to give a huge thank you to the local businesses who donated items and vouchers for our silent auction and prizes."
Meet your SRC
Newhaven College encourages our students to make their voices heard about issues important to them. A new initiative in 2023, students from Middle and Senior School come together every Wednesday to discuss issues concerning the student body. Lead by Year 12 students Tilia Pires-Andersen and Gabriel Winterson, students use their Wednesday's meetings to meet together or with College Leadership and staff. Topics range from access to social media to uniforms, with passionate opinions shared and welcome.
Any students wanting to get involved are encouraged to contact Tilia or Gabriel via SEQTA.
New Staging
Thanks to the Parents and Friends Association and the wonderful fundraising by the College community we are delighted to have our new staging for events. This means we don’t need to hire a stage for our assemblies and various other events throughout the year. This has been made possible through the generosity of the PFA, funds raised through the Music Christmas Raffle over the past 2 years and a contribution from the College.
Matthew Goss
Director of Music
Parents and Friends Association Report
Crazy Colour Day Fun Run
We are excited to announce that our second Crazy Colour Day Fun Run will be held on Friday, 2 August 2024 from 12-3pm. Students will be given their booklets with registration details and fundraising information in Term 3, Week 1. There is no obligation to fundraise, however, we request that everyone register an account for free. Those that fundraise will be in the running to select from a range of great prizes! The highest fundraisers will also be in the running for a Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite and an electric scooter. The highest fundraising classes will also be in the running for a class prize of icy poles!
This year, the colour fun run is a $2 donation, which will provide entry to the colour fun run course and sunglasses to keep.
Students are asked to wear all white and if possible, a costume. Those with the best costumes will be in the running for fantastic prizes, including an invite to slime the teachers at the school fete!
We are after parent volunteers to help with set up, colour run and pack up. If you have registered with the school as a volunteer and have a valid Working With Children Check, please sign up at: Copied signup
Shades of Pink
The PFA are keen to support various charities that align with the values of our school community. Following the success of the Mothers Day stall last month, we were delighted to have our Treasurer, Kay Kondarious, present a $200 cheque to Sarah Pederson on behalf of the charity, Shades of Pink.
Newhaven College Classic Golf Day
Mark it in your diaries, the inaugural Newhaven college Classic Golf Day will be held on Sunday, 25 August 2024! More details will be provided in Term 3.
School Fete
Save The Date! The school fete will be held this year, on Friday, 8 November 2024 and we are still on the lookout for community members who can help coordinate (with the support of the PFA) various stalls. We are also looking for external stall holders such as food vans and craft stalls. If you would like further information, please feel free to reach out to us via email.
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
Junior School
I want to extend my gratitude to the Newhaven College Community for the very warm welcome I have received as Head of Junior School this semester. The friendly faces, positivity and support have been lovely. The students' manners, warmth and willingness to always say a friendly hello to everyone in our school community have stood out.
Student Confidence and Leadership
Another observation has been the students' confidence and skill in speaking and performing before an audience. Our assemblies have highlighted impressive public speaking talents, musical performances, and excellent organisation among different year levels. These activities have demonstrated strong leadership skills and teamwork among the Junior School students.
Teaching Approach
The Minister for Education recently introduced an updated Victorian Teaching and Learning Model that emphasises explicit teaching and is grounded in evidence-based practices. This model, based on the Science of Reading, has been integrated into our Newhaven College Junior School. It represents more than just a program; it is a commitment to research-backed best practices that drive successful outcomes. We are excited to continue implementing this model, believing it marks an exciting era in education for both students and teachers.
Term 2 Reading Habits
We are thrilled to see nightly reading habits continue to flourish this term, knowing this will significantly impact students' reading development. To celebrate this achievement last week, Mr. Tony Corr awarded a Principal’s Award (golden sticker) to students who consistently filled in their Term 2 daily reading logs. The enthusiasm and positivity from home learning habits highlight the program's success in fostering a love for reading and growth in literacy skills.
Year Level Newsletters
As we approach the end of Term 2, we reflect on the positive journey we have embarked upon together. This term has been filled with growth, learning and memorable moments. Our dedicated classroom teachers have been completing year-level newsletters, which are full of photos and exciting events from Term 2. These newsletters will be sent to families via SEQTA.
Thank you to our students, parents and staff for making Term 2 such a success. We wish all of our Newhaven College families a safe and happy break!
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Strings Showcase Concert
On Tuesday, our Year 2, 3, and 4 students participated in our annual Strings Showcase Concert. It was a fantastic opportunity for the children to showcase their developing musical talents to staff, parents, families and friends.
We thank Mr Goss, Ms Scully and Mr Prideaux for supporting our students during their performances.
Congratulations to everyone involved!
Prep and Year 1 Swimming
To celebrate the conclusion of our Prep and Year 1 Swimming program, we held a House Swimming Carnival on Tuesday. Our Prep and Year 1 students had a fantastic time, with smiles all round as they enthusiastically participated. It was wonderful to see everyone trying their best and giving each event a go!
The House Captains played an important role, assisting throughout the day, while each house engaged in spirited chants and showed strong team support.
Special thanks to the Year 9 helpers Billy Fisher, Cormac Flynn, Sam O’Garey, Elly Hennessy and Felix Bathgate whose assistance was invaluable. Parents and families joined us, adding to the atmosphere, and it was lovely to witness everyone enjoying themselves so much.
A fun day was had by all!
Junior School Disco!
As part of the Year 12 Leadership fundraising efforts for Cancer Council, our Junior School students put on their flashiest disco gear and headed over to the pavilion today to break some moves and have some fun!
A group of enthusiastic Year 9 students managed the event, making it one of the best days of school so far for the Junior School! Thank you to all who came along, assisted and donated on the day.
Donations are always welcome via our College Fundraising page for the Cancer Council.
Olympic Torch visits Junior School
This week Mr Scott made a special visit to the Junior School to share his story about running the Olympic Torch through Leongatha in the lead up to the Sydney 2000 Olympics. He had the students mesmerised with his story, explaining to them what an honour it was. The students asked many thoughtful questions about the torch as it was handed around among the most enthusiastic students.
The Junior School students and teachers also took the opportunity thank Mr Scott for his time at Newhaven College by presenting him with a gift and a special card.
Thank you Mr Scott for sharing your incredible story.
Farewell Barb Blair
It is with mixed emotions that we bid farewell to Barb Blair, a cherished member of our team since 2001. Over her remarkable tenure, Barb has worn many hats, contributing to diverse roles such as Reception, Newsletter, Careers Administration, Music Administration and most recently, as PA to the Head of Junior School.
Having had the pleasure of working with Barb for five years, I can attest to her unwavering dedication and impeccable work ethic. Barb's organisational prowess, coupled with her helpful nature, ensured that no stone was left unturned in her quest to support our community. She skilfully balanced the needs of students, parents and staff with just the right blend of care and kindness.
As Barb embarks on the next chapter of her life, we extend our heartfelt thanks for her years of service and wish her all the very best in her future endeavours.
Ralph Arceo
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.
Senior School
Goodbye Mr Scott!
Today we says goodbye to Head of Senior School and Vice Principal, Mr Jason Scott. Jason has decided to see what lies ahead after 15 years at Newhaven College.
Jason has been an invaluable member of our Leadership team, providing his in-depth knowledge of the education system to his colleagues, students and parents alike.
Mr Brett Torstonson will be stepping into the interim role as Head of Senior School from the commencement of next term, until the end of Semester 2.
Projects Abroad Cambodia Service Trip
On Wednesday this week, we said goodbye to our intrepid crew heading to Cambodia for Newhaven College's first Cambodia Project with Projects Abroad.
In the team are: Matilda Abraham-Williams, Lola Afford, Sienna Bell, Finlay Cameron, Nissa Campbell Walker, Matilda Feehan, Kadek Humphris, Oscar List, Grace McCrimmon, Eve Oakley, Lachie Paterson, Tilly Stecher.
Principal Tony Corr and Prep Teacher Fiona Smart are also part of the team.
For more information about Projects Abroad go to: https://www.projects-abroad.com.au/
Year 9 Update
Year 9 students have distinguished themselves throughout Term 2 with a dedication to learning, a spirit of community, and a commitment to making a difference.
City Cite: Civic Engagement in Action
Year 9 students actively participated in the City Cite program, demonstrating valuable critical thinking and problem-solving skills in their presentations on social and societal issues facing Melbourne, showcasing their commitment to shaping a positive future.
Promoting Teamwork at the Community Games
The end-of-term Community Games provided an excellent opportunity for Year 9 students to display their teamwork and sportsmanship in the academic games. The arrival of the Melbourne Cup at the presentation ceremony added another layer of excitement, even if the Community Games Golden Boot doesn't carry the same prestige.
Year 9 Makes a Mark on the Community
Year 9 students consistently demonstrate their compassion and commitment to the community. Through participation in fundraising initiatives and environmental projects, they actively contributed to positive social change. Students visiting the Junior School and Grossard Court Aged Care have been highlights for the term.
Looking Forward to Wollangarra in Term 3
As Term 2 concludes, we look towards the exciting adventures that await Year 9 students in Term 3. The highly anticipated Wollangarra camp promises a week filled with outdoor learning, collaborative challenges and lasting memories.
We commend Year 9 students for their dedication and achievements throughout Term 2. We look forward to witnessing their continued success in Term 3.
Sam Foura
Head of Year 9
National Youth Science Forum (NYSF)
Registrations are open now for 2025 NYSF!
The National Youth Science Forum Year 12 Program is designed to give students a broader understanding of the diverse study and career options available in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and to encourage continued studies in these fields. This is a two-week residential program at:
- The Australian National University, Canberra (6-14 January 2025), or
- The University of Queensland, Brisbane (15-23 January 2025)
Students in Year 11 should apply now for their Year 12 year. Interested students should apply ASAP so that funding can be secured through the local Rotary Club.
Registrations close 15 July 2023. Please see Mr Torstonson or Mrs Milkins-Hendry for further information. You can also follow the link HERE to find out more.
Relationships & Sexuality Education
Newhaven College partners with Elephant Ed to provide consent, respectful relationships and sexuality education across the Senior School. The aim is to empower our students to make informed, positive and safe decisions about consent, relationships and growing up. These workshops don’t shy away from tough topics - we tackle them head-on. The workshops are interactive, informative and engaging and respond to relevant matters and challenges facing young people.
Last week we had 4 workshops:
- Year 9 'Consent'
- Year 10 'Inclusivity' which followed the ‘Safe Sex & STI’s’ workshop held in May
- Year 11 'Privilege' which followed the ‘Pleasure’ workshop held in May
- Year 12 'Sexual Violence'
The feedback from the students was overwhelmingly positive with students really appreciating the dialogue and thought-provoking activities.
There are follow up workshops planned for October
- Year 9 ‘Porn vs Reality’
- Year 10 ‘When’s the Right Time?’
Anyone interested in learning more download the Elephant Ed Parent Toolkit.
Senior School PARTY Program
On Wed 12 June, 40 students from Year 10-12 participated in the Prevent Alcohol and Risk‐related Trauma in Youth (P.A.R.T.Y) program. Bringing together staff and resources from Latrobe Regional Health, VicPOl and Ambulance Victoria, the program aimed to reduce the incidence of traumatic injury for our students. With a real car wreck and ambulance set up outside the Senior School and an Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit set up inside, students were immersed in an extremely authentic experience.
Although the program was confronting, the students spoke about the importance of this type of experience as they make decisions about alcohol and drugs. We received lots of feedback and I have shared one parent’s reflection below.
"My daughter attended the PARTY incursion today and spoke to me in depth about what was discussed and shown. She has nothing but positive things to say about the entire day. She thought it was so well done and said she feels the entire senior school should experience it.
"It was confronting at times but in a good way. From the brave family allowing their son’s car wreck to be on display and details of his accident discussed. Jacob walking into the room after his story was told to Paramedics and Police Officers speaking first-hand what they see and have to deal with. To all that organised this event, well done and thank you!"
Road Safety & Schools - Year 11 RYDA Workshop
On 21 June our Year 11 students participated in a RYDA Workshop including sessions on Road Choices, Mind Matters, Speed and Stopping, Crash Investigators, Drive SOS, and The 'I' in Drive.
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 worked 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 Careers Expo
Our students had the opportunity to attend the Local Learning & Employment Network Careers Expo at Korumburra with other schools from the region.
Students were prompted to reflect on their strengths and interests and interacted with a range of exhibitors including ADF, Victoria Police, Bass Coast Health and Chisholm TAFE.
Anthea Bennett
Head of Careers
Careers
Please be sure to check out this month's Career Newsletter and the Careers Events Calendar for Semester Break.
Key highlights include:
- Upcoming Events and Open Days
- Important Future Events
Anthea Bennett
Head of Careers
Scholarships
Year 9 Scholarships 2025
The Year 9 Environmental program embodies our commitment to an innovative and immersive curriculum. Students' curiosity is ignited as they deepen their academic knowledge while their personal growth is nurtured.
Newhaven College is calling for applications for all students entering Year 9 in 2025 who are able to demonstrate outstanding abilities across a broad range of areas including academic, sporting, performing arts, leadership and community involvement.
Applications close Monday 29 July 2024.
Visual & Performing Arts
Keys, Voice, Strings and Wind Soiree
A magical evening was had by all on Monday night last week. Music students from Year 1- Year 12 performed for parents and friends at our Winter Soiree. The students demonstrated how far they have come with the performance of choice, being Voice, Strings, Keys or Wind. The students were supported by our incredible music teachers and tutors and performed beautifully.
VET Performance at The Westernport Hotel
On Tuesday 11 June, our VET music students were given the opportunity to perform a live gig at The Westernport Hotel in San Remo. As part of the event, students set up, perform, and pack up at the end of the gig. A great experience for their future in music performance.
We thank the Westernport Hotel for hosting our students. Congratulations to the following bands:
Foodtruck, Foil, Jilt, WhyGoatsWhy?, if and when, The Inbetweens, Laney Days and Marchioness
House Singing Competition
On the last day of term, the Collect was taken over by excited Senior School students dressed in blue, yellow, red and green. The House Singing Competition is one of the most silly and enjoyable House activities of the year.
Congratulations to McHaffie who won!
1st McHaffie
2nd Sambell
3rd Bass
4th Clarke
Into the Woods...
In the 35 years since its premiere, Into the Woods has become a classic – brilliantly original, dark, funny, absorbing and utterly entertaining.
It begins, of course, with “Once upon a time…” By the end of the opening number six fairytale plots have intertwined, as Cinderella, the Baker and his Wife, Little Red Riding Hood and Jack of beanstalk fame all head into the woods in search of love, happiness, wisdom. Three midnights of brilliant plot twists later, they all end up singing “Happy Ever After”. Except this is only the interval… We all want our wishes fulfilled, but are we prepared to pay the price?
Be sure to come along to this magical journey by Leongatha Lyric Theatre, starring many familiar Newhaven College faces. The show features students Cecily De Gooyer as Cinderella, Aoife O'Connell as Little Red Riding Hood. Archie Robson and Eddy Kratz are part of the sound effects team. The show also features our teachers Kerryn Lockhart as The Baker's Wife and Elaine Epifano in the Orchestra. Plus alum Jonah Van Stek plays Prince Charming.
The show commences on Friday 5 July and runs through to Saturday 20 July. Be sure to book your tickets!
Sport
Speedy Jett
Congratulations to Year 5 student Jett Fawaz who recently competed at the District Athletics Carnival. Jett was the quickest 1500m male runner for the event and was presented with a medal.
Georgia shines on court
Over the long weekend, Year 9 student Georgia Mills was part of the powerhouse South Gippsland Div 3 women's volleyball team playing at the Country Champs Volleyball in the Latrobe Valley. They had an epic battle on the courts and walked away victorious and WON the Country Champs Div 3 women.
Georgia also plays in the club's State League team on Saturdays.
Congratulations Georgia!
Interleague AFL success
Five Newhaven College boys represented the West Gippsland Football League's U16s in an interleague game against Ellinbank District Football League at Lang Lang last week. The boys were all amazing and had a great win.
Congratulations to Xavier Williams, Blake Eden, Jeremy Kelly, Riley Eden, Froley Anderson and Jimmy O'Neill.
Jeremy Kelly did an incredible job as Captain and won Best on Ground!
Well done boys!
Years 5 & 6 Girls Football
On Friday 14 June, the 5/6 Girls Football team competed in the District Carnival in Wonthaggi. The girls had a brilliant day, coming away with a win and 2 closely fought losses. In our last group game, we almost beat the team that went on to win the final. Lead by Frankie Leary, the girls played a tough brand of football, embracing each and every moment. Alice Martindale fought hard in the ruck all day, with countless clearances and tap downs to Evie Kimber. Lulu van der Walt put on a tackling masterclass, while Ruby Pedersen controlled the backline. Dae Anderson took plenty of marks and competed for everything. Their enthusiasm, teamwork, sportsmanship and skills were to be admired.
I also would like to thank the Year 8 students who helped umpire on the day: Jesse Moschetti, Cooper Brown, Charlie Burgess, Harvey Sorensen, Zeb Anderson, Cruz Maund and Brydon Marshall.
Matt Jackson
Physical Education Teacher
Year 6 Boys Interschool Netball
A squad of 10 year 6 boys competed in Wonthaggi on Friday June 14 for the Interschool netball competition. They played four games, including a 22 to 3 win against Wonthaggi North and a 20 - 2 win against the Cowes PS B team.
Brilliant defence from Harshaan, Archie and Aiden and some stand out shooting from Flynn, Louis and Lachie. Our Wing and Centre players were outstanding, so a big shout out to Will, Mitch, Levi and Byron.
Congratulations to the boys for their sportsmanship, teamwork and determination.
Shona O'Dempsey
Year 6 Teacher
MTB at Dromana College Round 1
Newhaven College MTB was excited to be back at the Auscycling Victorian Schools XC MTB Series for 2024 with Round 1 being held at Dromana Secondary College. The cross country mountain bike event drew participants representing their respective schools from various age groups and skill levels from right around Victoria. The beautiful weather, challenging course and enthusiastic crowd set the stage for a memorable day of competition and camaraderie.
With twelve first time racers amongst them, 21 Newhaven College students had a fun and challenging day out with a standout performance from Hamish Dakers-Hock who managed to podium by securing a commendable third place. Despite the tough competition in the U15’s, Hamish displayed exceptional determination, navigating the demanding course.
'Miss Consistent' Lucy Thompson held off her rival from the last series to clinch the top spot with an impressive performance. Her first-place finish not only highlighted her athleticism but also served as an inspiration to her peers and the next generation of female mountain bikers coming through Newhaven College.
Next Round of the series is at Lysterfield MTB Park on 14th July 2024. Other commendable mentions were Maxen Mills places 5th in under 15 novice, and Ethan Tilley placed 4th in under 17s novice.
Girls MTB Social Ride
On Monday 24 June, we were lucky enough to host our girls only come and try MTB pump track and flow track session. I was so pleased to see lots of girls from so many different age groups and experience levels to come and try out our new tracks! We split off into two groups and both of our groups had loads of fun on the jumps, flow trail and rode around the pump track! We all had an awesome time and everyone wanted to stay until it was almost dark! Hopefully we’ll see lots of new faces in the academy for Term 4.
Stay posted for more events coming soon!
Thank you to the MTB committee and Newhaven College for giving us all these amazing opportunities! 🤙🏻
Lucy Thompson
Year 7 McHaffie
Surf Squad Travel to NSW
Week 10 saw our Newhaven College Surfing Squad on the move as 13 students and two teachers embraced the 4:00am start in order to catch their flight up to the prestigious Surfing Australia High Performance Centre (HPC) in northern NSW.
The HPC is not a school camp, rather an elite training facility that plays host to professional surfers from all over Australia and abroad. It serves as the go to training facility for individuals such as Ethan Ewing, Jack Robinson, Tyler Wright and Molly Picklum.
The HPC boasts impressive facilities including skate ramps, trampolines and foam pits for dry land training, a state of the art gym for conditioning and hot and cold contrast therapy baths for recovery. Following each surfing session, the Newhaven College Squad went straight to the film room for an in depth review of their waves. The HPC coaches with over 20 years of experience work with elite adult and youth teams all over Australia and were quick to load our team up with session specific feedback and send them back out into the water with individual scaffolded goals.
Ben Clark
Head of Surf Academy
Year 12 House Netball
Year 12 doesn't have to all be about books and study. Our current Year 12 cohort loves the opportunity to get involved in a bit of friendly rivalry on the court. This week they were able to get moving in the gym, while competing in a House netball competition.
Chaplain's Corner
Joy
Joy is a profound and multifaceted experience that transcends the simple, fleeting happiness we often seek in our day-to-day lives. As a school chaplain, I have witnessed how joy manifests in various forms within the school community, especially as we approach the school holidays—a time that often brings a unique blend of anticipation, reflection, and togetherness.
At its core, joy is a deeply spiritual experience. It arises from a sense of connection: to oneself, to others, and to something greater. In the school environment, joy can be seen in the camaraderie among students, the dedication of teachers, and the supportive nature of the entire school community. It is the light in a student's eyes when they grasp a challenging concept, the laughter shared during recess, and the collective excitement as the holidays draw near.
The school holidays are a particularly poignant time to reflect on and cultivate joy. For many students and staff, this period offers a much-needed respite from the rigors of academic life. It is a time for rest, renewal, and the rekindling of familial bonds. Families come together, sharing meals, stories, and experiences that create lasting memories. This season of togetherness is a fertile ground for joy to flourish.
Family plays a pivotal role in nurturing joy. The unconditional love and support found within a family unit can provide a strong foundation for a joyful life. During the holidays, the presence of family can be especially comforting and uplifting. Whether it’s engaging in holiday traditions, embarking on a vacation, or simply enjoying each other's company, these moments of connection are where joy thrives.
As a chaplain, I encourage students and their families to be mindful of these opportunities for joy. Embrace the simple pleasures—whether it’s a walk in the park, a shared meal, or a heartfelt conversation. Recognize the beauty in everyday moments and be grateful for the time spent together. Joy, after all, is not just found in grand celebrations, but in the quiet, cherished moments of life.
In this season of school holidays, let us all take the time to pause, reflect and embrace the joy that comes from being with loved ones. May we carry this joy with us, not just during the holidays, but throughout the year, as a source of strength and inspiration in all we do.
Andre Whitton
Chaplain
Community Links
Smokeless Tobacco Products
The evolving nicotine landscape requires parents and caregivers to stay informed to protect young people from these emerging threats. Snus and nicotine pouches are gaining popularity among young people as smokeless tobacco (SLT) products. Both products are discreetly placed under the upper lip, allowing nicotine absorption through the gums.
Health authorities are urging proactive measures to curb this growing trend and calling on regulators to implement controls before these products become as widespread as vapes. The high nicotine levels in these products pose serious health risks, including nicotine addiction, cardiovascular disease, gum disease, tooth decay, and even nicotine poisoning. Researchers highlight the detrimental effects of nicotine on developing brains, linking its use to depression, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, and an increased risk of addiction to other drugs.
The marketing of snus and nicotine pouches targets young audiences through social media influencers, raising concerns about their increasing popularity among school students. And like vapes, they come in various flavours and strengths, with unregulated nicotine levels leading to inconsistent and misleading labelling. It is clear that SLT products contain not only nicotine, but also other chemicals with unknown long-term effects.
This Special Report will help you become aware of the potential risks of smokeless tobacco products and guide you in age-appropriate discussions with your child.
Read the Special Report
