In this Issue
From the Principal
I would like to thank all of our families for their attendance at our Presentation Evening and Junior School Celebration Night last week. We very much appreciate parent support in ensuring these evenings are important occasions that enable our students to conclude their year in an appropriate way. Congratulations to all our student presenters, performers and award recipients.
As the school year draws to a close we farewell a number of valued colleagues. My best wishes go to the following staff who are moving on from the College at the end of 2024:
- Leisa Lomax (Human Resources Manager)
- Caroline Mahony (Head of Strings)
- Kerry McLean (Lab Technician and Science Teacher)
- Andrew Schmutter (Product Design Teacher)
- Casey Thomsen (Head of Brass)
- Amanda Ritter (Commerce Teacher)
- Jenna Harman (Health Centre)
- Lucas Chihotski (Sports Intern)
My special thanks also to Junior School teacher Linda Austin who is concluding her time. Linda commenced her teaching career in 1980, spending the last ten years at Newhaven College teaching Grade Prep. Linda always preferred to teach Prep for the energy and learning opportunities it creates and the relationships you build with the students and parents. We wish her all the best in her retirement.
We also farewell teacher Ric Pierce after seventeen years at the College, sixteen of those years were as Head of the Year 9 Environmental Centre. Not only is Ric finishing at Newhaven he is finishing a long and distinguished career in education. Ric’s journey began in 1984 as an original staff member of the Outdoor Education Group, one of Victoria's biggest outdoor education providers. From there he worked at Caulfield Grammar, Methodist Ladies College and arrived at Newhaven in 2008 with his wife Karen and two daughters, Elly and Brooke. Ric and Karen have given much to our school and community, and it was through Ric’s work that our Year 9 program continues to be the envy of many. My special thanks to Ric for his contribution to our school over such a long period.
Like every year there are also a number of students departing us for various reasons. I would like to wish each of these students all the best and thank them and their families for their contribution to our school.
In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Our Strength
Tony Corr
Principal
Staff Awards
During the Years 5-11 Presentation Evening last week, long-serving teaching and non-academic staff were recognised. Librarian Jo Foster and Science and Systems Engineering teacher Nathan Leys received recognition for 20 years or more of service and dedication to the school over those years. For 18 years of service, recipients included Junior School teacher Marcelle Krieg along with Music and Drama power couple Nina and David Prideaux. Other recognition of dedication to the College were Year 9 Teacher, Elizabeth Hall (13 years), Student Support and Teacher Cynthia Young (10 years), departing Prep Teacher Linda Austin (10 years) and Teacher Anna Paterson (10 years).
College News
Radius 2024
All students should have received their 2024 Radius copy. We would like to thank all the teachers, staff, students and even some parents for their contributions. Also, Designer Staffan Hakansson and Nathan from Gippsland Printers were efficient and helpful along the way.
We hope everyone can enjoy this year's edition and reflect on the amazing year we have all had together.
Lucy Couper & Steph Thornborrow
Marketing and Communications
Wardy's Newhaven College Christmas Tree
This week volunteers from St Vincent de Paul collected all the gifts under Wardy's Newhaven College Christmas Tree.
John Ward, the founder of the Christmas Tree, sends his greetings and special thanks from the Blue Hills Residencies Retirement Village in Cranbourne. John says thank you to all who have donated to the tree, keeping a Newhaven College tradition for another year.
Now residing in Blue Hills Residencies Retirement Village in Cranbourne, John Ward, the founder of the Christmas Tree, sends his greetings and special thanks. John says, “thank you to all who have responded to the tree and kept a Newhaven College tradition going for another year.”
World Challenge - Borneo
We’re excited to offer 2025 Year 10 & 11 students a life-changing opportunity to explore Borneo mid-year next year!
This two-week Journey will focus on life skills, confidence, resilience and independence.
We’re partnering with World Challenge to offer this trip. It’s an opportunity for students to learn all there is to know about culture and sustainability in some of the oldest rainforest in the world, get hands on staying in and working alongside a local community and see Orangutans and Sun Bears in their natural habitat.
Here’s the
link with all the information you need: Newhaven College -
Borneo Journey 2025
Oli from World Challenge will host an online information evening at the school
early next term to go through the itinerary and answer all and any questions,
just click ‘Register for Information Evening’ on the webpage to RSVP.
In the meantime, there’s a strong focus on students raising some of the funds
for this trip themselves so if students are considering attending the summer
holiday break is a good time to be looking for a part-time job.
Tony Corr
Principal
Japan Tour 2025 – Expression of Interest
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? We are excited to propose the Japan Tour 2025, tentatively planned for Saturday, 13 September, to Saturday, 27 September (Term 3, Week 9 to Break Week 1).
This two-week immersive experience will take you on a journey to explore Japan’s rich culture, history, and traditions. Highlights include:
A visit to our sister school, including a homestay experience with a sister school family: Connect with Japanese students, experience their school life, and build lifelong memories through cultural exchange.
Cultural immersion: Discover local traditions, visit iconic landmarks, and deepen your understanding of Japan.
The tour’s approximate cost is $3,900. An information evening is planned for early February to provide further details and answer your questions.
Interested? Don’t miss this amazing opportunity! Send your name to Ms Horiguchi to express your interest.
Mitsuko Horiguchi
Program Co-ordinator
Updated Uniform Guide
The College is thrilled to announce that our updated school uniform is available. While the change-over in our uniform shop will take several months, the following is a guide to the updates that will take place.
Please note there is no need for families to replace the existing uniform. Our updated uniform will be phased in over time.
The new uniforms will become available throughout November.
For more information:
Parents and Friends Association Report
Following on from our last update regarding the fete, we're excited to announce that Year 3P donated the most bottles for our 'Lucky Bottles' stall and were the lucky recipients of a pizza and icy pole party! Well done Mrs Pederson and Year 2P! A special shout out to Isola Di Capri, who generously donated $280, which were the proceeds from their arancini stall at our fete. Your support and community spirit, along with all the other businesses that supported our fete have made a meaningful contribution to our fundraising efforts!
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible support we’ve received throughout 2024. The success of the Parents and Friends Association’s initiatives would not have been possible without the collective effort of our wonderful school community.
To our parents, teachers, students, local businesses and wider community - thank you for your unwavering support. Whether you volunteered at events, donated items, bought a raffle ticket, or simply cheered us on, you have made a difference.
A big thank you to the team of Newhaven College staff that support our PFA events throughout the year: Tony Corr, Katrina Lawrence, Katie Bland, Donna Stone, Steph Thornborrow, Lucy Couper, Kylee Roby and Aaron Chaston.
Lastly (and most importantly) to my PFA team (and their patient spouses) for all your time and effort this year - none of it would have been possible without you all.
As we look forward to 2025, we’re excited to build on this year’s achievements with your continued help. We welcome your ideas, suggestions, and feedback - please feel free to share your thoughts by emailing us at Newhaven.PFA@gmail.com
Wishing you all a joyful holiday season filled with laughter, love and relaxation. See you next year for another exciting chapter!
Angel Chambers
President | Parents and Friends Association
Tomato Relish and Dehydrated Citrus Slices for Sale
If you missed out on visiting our fabulous preserves stall at the fete, here’s your opportunity to stock up in time for Christmas.
Home-made Tomato Relish $5 each or 3 for $12
Dehydrated Orange or Lemon Slices (50 grams) $5 each
Purchases can be made at the College main reception.
Junior School
As we reach the final day of the school year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey we have had together. This year has been filled with growth, learning and countless memorable moments. It has been a joy to watch our students develop and thrive in so many ways.
Our dedicated staff and supportive community have been instrumental in creating a positive and nurturing environment for our students. I am deeply grateful for the commitment and hard work of our teachers, the partnership with our parents, and the enthusiasm of our students.
Reading Awards
Reading Award certificates were handed out today to students across the Junior School who have demonstrated a commitment to reading on a nightly basis during Term 4. These work habits have been exceptional from a large number of students, and it is evident that their dedication has made a significant difference in the growth and progress observed throughout the year. This consistent approach to reading will continue to have a lasting impact on their development as they move forward.
Looking Forward to Next Year
As we celebrate the accomplishments of this year, we also look forward to the exciting opportunities that next year will bring. Our Junior School is excited to welcome Mr. Andre Hetebrueg, who will be teaching in Year 1. Andre has been teaching at Korumburra Primary School, and we are very much looking forward to welcoming him to our Junior School team at the beginning of next year.
2025 Prep - Year 4 Classroom Teachers
Prep B – Miss Charlotte Bassed
Prep L – Mrs. Kerryn Lynch
1H – Mr. Andre Hetebrueg
1P – Mrs. Sarah Pedersen
2O – Mrs. Meg Oudshoorn
2O – Mr. Rob Simpson
3K – Ms. Marcelle Krieg
3R – Mrs. Miranda Reich
4M – Ms. Kate Middleton
4S – Mrs. Fiona Smart
We also bid farewell to some of our cherished colleagues. We wish Mrs. Linda Austin all the best in her retirement, after 10 years of dedicated service at Newhaven College. We have been so fortunate to have had a teacher like Linda, cherished by so many preps, their families and our entire school.
We wish Mr. Matt Jackson and Mrs. Emma Jackson, all the very best as they embark on a year’s leave with their young family. We also say farewell to Mrs. Jenny Sipthorp, and I am pleased to announce that Mrs. Jo Savona will be teaching in the Middle School next year. Mrs. Jackyn Clark has been appointed Junior School Sports Coordinator. Thank you to these dedicated teachers, and we wish them all the very best!
Orientation Day
On Tuesday, 3rd December, each grade from Prep to Year 8 moved into their 2025 classes. Students had the opportunity to get to know their 2025 teacher as well as their classmates, including quite a few new students who were invited for the day. Our current Year 4 students spent the day in Middle School where they also had sessions with their Year 5 classroom and Middle School teachers for 2025.
Junior School Leaders in 2025
I am proud to announce our Year 4 2025 Captains. Congratulations to all of our Year 3 students who applied for a captaincy position, your efforts were impressive. We look forward to seeing our 2025 Year 4 students take on their new roles as leaders, serving as role models and embracing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. See below the list of Captains for 2025.
Celebrating Our Final Day
To celebrate our final day, Pastor Andre ran a Christmas Assembly for our students and teachers. This was a lovely opportunity for us to come together, enjoy Christmas carols and reflect on the special meaning behind Christmas. A time to celebrate the season of joy, peace and goodwill with our school community.
To continue these celebrations, we held a Junior School Picnic for staff, students and families. This provided an opportunity to say goodbye to one another before the Christmas break and enjoy an afternoon together. We would like to thank our Class Representatives who have done a fabulous job in organising our Junior School picnic.
As we conclude this year, I want to extend my gratitude to everyone for their incredible support and the wonderful year we have had. Your dedication and partnership in your child's education have made this year very special.
I wish everyone a lovely Christmas filled with joy and warmth. Enjoy this precious time with your loved ones. We look forward to an exciting year ahead, but until then, have a very Happy Christmas and New Year.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Junior School Celebration Evening
Last week our entire Junior School, students from Prep to Year 4, parents, teachers and College leadership, came together to celebrate the end of 2024. The celebration was a fitting end to the school year as the success of all students was celebrated. Junior School students were presented with a certificate of achievement for completing a wonderful year of learning and improvement. The students demonstrated their talents with singing, music and spoken word performances onstage.
The proceedings for the evening were professionally presented by the Junior School Captains and Vice Captains, Edward Lee, Chloe Shapardon, Eden Hallas and Leith Cameron.
Junior School Captains 2025
I am proud to announce our Year 4 2025 Captains. Congratulations to all of our Year 3 students who applied for a captaincy position, your efforts were impressive. We look forward to seeing our 2025 Year 4 students take on their new roles as leaders, serving as role models and embracing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
Junior School Captains Dallas Latham, Nate Kondarios, Peyton Rhee and Venus Herath Mudiyanselage
Sambell House Captains Mila Potter and Coco Russo
McHaffie House Captains Bridget Doig and Levi Naarden
Bass House Captains Billy Kimber and Ruby Pirouet
Clarke House Captains Georgia Evans and Austin Lynch
Performing Arts Captains Lucy Pedersen and Audrey Mantel
Wellbeing Captains Indy Van Damme and Savannah James
Cath Huther
Head of Senior School
Year 4 Graduation Assembly
Our Year 4 Graduation Assembly was held yesterday and celebrated our Year 4s with the theme 'Spread your Wings.' Our Year 4 students presented to the Junior School students, staff and families and offered advice or shared something they loved about their time at Newhaven College. It was lovely to hear these reflections and appreciation of the very positive memories that these students will take with them.
As we farewell our Year 4 students into Middle School, we are fortunate to continue watching them develop and thrive as they take on new challenges and experiences.
Year 2 'Our Island Home' Book
Everyone, of all ages, should take the time to enjoy the magnificent book 'Our Island Home' created by our Year 2 classes (2P and 2O) this year. With assistance from their dedicated teachers, Mrs Sarah Pedersen and Mrs Meg Oudshoorn, this book is one that will remain a favourite at Newhaven College.
Click here or on the image below to read the whole book:
Middle School
There has been a fantastic buzz around the Middle School this week with the excitement of end of year events combined with the anticipation of what next year holds.
End of Year Celebrations
Year 6s have celebrated their end of primary schooling with their ‘Big Day Out’ at Gravity Zone and the Year 8s have enjoyed their Beach Day and a fun-filled day at the Phillip Island Adventure Resort to round off their Middle School experience.
Our Year 8s have contributed so much to the Middle School throughout their time in this sub-school and we wish them all the very best of luck as they head into the Senior School at the Year 9 Environmental Centre.
Orientation Day
Tuesday was a day of great excitement as we welcomed new students for 2025, including our current year 4s, to Middle School. There would be very few people who don’t recall their experience as they entered Year 7 for the first time and it was wonderful to be able to share the beginning of this journey with them. Watching nerves become excitement as the day progressed was really lovely.
Student Leadership 2025
All students who applied for student leadership positions for 2025 deserve recognition for the way they conducted themselves throughout this process. Congratulations to all students who were appointed to a position and commiserations to those who were not – there will be further opportunities for leadership in 2025 in the SRC, so I encourage anyone who missed out to throw their hat in the ring for one of these positions.
Finishing the year with the traditional ‘It’s a Knockout’ activities was great fun, seeing all of our students striving to prove their class to be the champions of 2024. Well done to all students for giving their all.
Finally, as this academic year draws to a close I would like to thank everyone for their support as I kept Mr Arceo’s seat warm, and to wish the entire school community a safe and happy break.
Geoff White
Acting Head of Middle School
Middle School Student Leadership 2025
Congratulations to our Middle School Student Leaders for 2025.
Middle School Captains Indi Maloney and Lucy Thompson
Bass House Captains Abi Derham and Chinasa Okali
Clarke House Captains Isabella Lynch and Evie Hollings
McHaffie House Captains Seb Di Falco and Hunter Jansen
Sambell House Captains Annabel Schwartz and Maggie Fisher
Music Captain Charlee Pedersen
Wellbeing Captains Georgia Kesterton and Bonnie McBride
Drama Captain Ned Scott
Sports Captains Ambrose De Gooyer and Indi Keady
Senior School
Silence has settled across the learning spaces around the Senior School and Year 9 Environmental Centre buildings. This time of the year always brings with it a sense of sadness for staff following the departure of all Year 9 to Year 11 students at the end of the academic year (and some time to breathe again and write reports!).
The final two weeks of Term 4 for Senior School students are both stressful and exciting, with the arrival of end of semester examinations, followed by Transition Week. There is no doubt that examinations provide for a stressful and challenging activity, but they are a vital component in both assessing the progress made by Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 students and providing the important experience for all students as they gradually march towards their final VCE examinations, whether they be one, two or three years away. There’s no doubt that examinations provided their fair share of joy, relief, excitement and at times, disappointment as students received their results last Monday. No matter what the result may have been, it is important that each student learns from their experiences and becomes a better student in the process. Whilst we as teachers want to see our students experience success, it is invariably the questions students get wrong that teaches a student the greatest lessons. Students must ensure they do not become despairing when losing marks in examinations but take the opportunity to discuss their struggles with their teachers and understand how to avoid making similar mistakes in the future.
Transition Week
May I take this opportunity to compliment the Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 students that attended Transition Week. They approached the week with energy and enthusiasm. I was immensely impressed with the mature attitude taken by many Newhaven College students throughout this week. It was very evident that each year level was ready to move onto the next stage of their educational journey and many of their teachers happily expressed to me how productive their classes were throughout the week. Each student took the opportunity to gain insight into the subjects they were studying in 2025, and to learn how their new teachers and classmates tick. My personal experience of my own two VCE Biology classes was very pleasing – two classes of students eager to learn new things, take on new challenges and very importantly, they demonstrated a preparedness to ask interesting and probing questions of me within lessons. From what I am told by colleagues, this was a consistent theme across the three year levels in a diverse range of subject areas.
Presentation Evening
Last week we celebrated the success of over 160 students from Year 5 to Year 11. Presentation Evening was a representation of the most important aspect of schooling – a celebration of success from our students. Whist academic success was a highlight for many of our students, we also celebrated sporting, cultural and musical success. In addition, we highlighted the values inherent in a Newhaven College student, with many of our students receiving Values Awards or awards recognising their astonishing efforts within and outside of the Newhaven College community.
So, I would like to wish all Newhaven College students and their families a very Merry Christmas and a restful summer holiday. Each student in the Senior School will enjoy an eight-week summer holiday, and each of these students has some form of holiday homework. I recommend students get onto their holiday homework early – complete it thoroughly and then turn their minds to rest and recuperation.
I look forward to welcoming all Year 12 2025 students back to the College on Friday 31 January for the traditional opening to the College year for Year 12 students – the Year 12 Forum Day. This day recognises that all Year 12 students are leaders, irrespective of whether they have a title, and it is a compulsory day for all Year 12 students.
Monday 3 February 2025 is the first full day back for all Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 students.
Brett Torstonson
Head of Senior School
Years 5-11 Presentation Evening
Congratulations to all the award recipients at last week's Presentation Evening.
MAJOR AWARD RECIPIENTS
- Senior School Dux Awards - Aiden Kelly (Year 9), Tilly Stecher (Year 10) and Lara Smyth (Year 11)
- ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award - Isabel Mahon (Year 10)
- ADF Future Innovators Award - Tilly Stecher (Year 10)
- The Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program - Tilly Stecher and Lulu Lightowler (Year 10)
- Luke Bolding Memorial Award - Ayden Fawaz (Year 11)
- St Vincent de Paul Society Frederic Ozanam Awards - Saxon Collier and Lavenia Hewitt (Year 6)
- The Bendigo Community Bank Awards - James Cameron, Jemima Fraser, Scarlet-Grace Jongejan and Zoe Paterson (Year 9)
- Rotary: Outstanding Community Service Award – Lachlan Chapman (Year 5) and Mia Tillotson (Year 8)
- The Reverend John Leaver Award – Marley Brown (Year 11)
- Donald Cameron OAM Award – River Henderson (Year 10)
- Peter Reith AM Memorial Prize - Kordelia Kossena (Year 9)
- Duke of Edinburgh Awards – 16 students completed their Bronze Award. Silver was awarded to Matilda Feehan, Tilly Stecher and Jasmine Ruffin
VET CERTIFICATE 2 BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION
Charles O’Garey (SoA), Baylin Townsend (SoA), Jack Briggs-Dodge, Oscar Dean and Tate Russell
VET CERTIFICATE 3 MUSIC INDUSTRY
Nissa Campbell Walker, Cecily de Gooyer, Grace Farmer, Angelina Mumby, Archie Robson and Matilda Russell
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Year Level |
Names |
5 |
Molly Baud, Jack Mannix, Will Mirabito, Harper Perry, Flynn Wright |
6 |
Ivy Addison, Harshaan Gill, Zara Hill, Callan Reilly, Archie Smyth |
7 |
Abigail Derham, Sebastian Di Falco, Riccardo Federici, Georgia Kesterton, Georgia Perry, Edward Scott, Lucy Thompson, Ariana Ward |
8 |
Zoe Arnott, Amelia Baxter, Luna Bowker, Mia Bowtell, Finn Campbell Walker, Scarlette Hill, Verity Rachelle, Mabel Richardson, Georgia Sanders, Alexa Zalunardo |
9 |
Harry Bentley, Ania Falzon, Jasmine Gill, Aidan Kelly, Lachlan Kelly, Kordelia Kossena, Evie McClimont, Inez Parmington, Mia Thompson, Claire Van der Heyden |
10 |
Freya Berry, Jasira Derham, Isabel Mahon, Aoife O'Connell, Eve Oakley, Oliver Raso, Elleah Rodgers, Jasmine Ruffin, Tilly Stecher, Fleur White, Yu Yao |
YEAR 11 ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE SUBJECT AWARDS
One Award
Subject |
Award Recipient |
Physics |
Marley Brown |
General Mathematics |
Nissa Campbell Walker |
Business Management |
Ben Chihotski |
Food Studies |
Ayden Fawaz |
Systems Engineering |
Ruben Jungwirth |
Outdoor & Environmental Studies |
Bailey Leed |
Psychology |
Jazz Mau |
Chemistry |
Maisie McMurray |
Physical Education |
Finn O’Brien |
Product Design & Tech: Wood |
Tate Russell |
Units 3/4 Biology |
Isaac Savona |
Biology |
Tilly Stecher (Y10) |
English |
Miranda Zalunardo |
Two Awards
Subjects |
Award Recipient |
Foundation Mathematics Media Studies |
Lola Afford |
Japanese Y1 VET Music |
Indigo Aurora |
Health & Human Development Physical Education |
Sophia Hungerford |
Health & Human Development Legal Studies |
Grace Morris |
Art Making & Exhibiting Psychology |
Abby Papas |
English Literature Units 3/4 Psychology |
Rosalie Spencer |
Three Awards
Subjects |
Award Recipient |
Business Management Product Design & Tech: Textiles Visual Communication & Design |
Sienna Bell |
Biology Economics Mathematical Methods |
Grace Howlett |
Five Awards
Subjects |
Award Recipient |
English General Mathematics Music Performance Theatre Studies Y2 VET Music |
Cecily de Gooyer |
Six Awards
Subjects |
Award Recipient |
Chemistry English Mathematical Methods Specialist Mathematics Units 3/4 Biology Units 3/4 Physical Education |
Lara Smyth |
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AWARDS – CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION
Year Level |
Names |
5 |
Sophie Morse – for her work in Art |
6 |
Chantai May – for her work in Art |
7 |
Indiana Maloney, Abigail Simpson, Isabell Turner |
8 |
Max Joy and Scarlette Hill – Community Projects: Food and Wood Maya Andersen – Community Projects: Design and Textiles Hayden Hopkins and Lukah Fawaz – Community Projects: Music and Media River Hume – Community Projects: Art and Drama |
SPORTS / MUSIC ENSEMBLE / DRAMA AWARDS
Year Level |
Sports |
Music Ensemble |
Theatre and Drama |
5 |
Dae Anderson Jett Fawaz |
Edith Jamieson Jack Mannix |
Edith Jamieson Sophie Morse |
6 |
Tijian Coldora Alice Martindale |
Michael Christofi McKenzie Cleland |
Zara Hill Chantai May |
7 |
Ambrose De Gooyer Lucy Thompson |
Charlee Pedersen Ariana Ward |
Ned Scott Ariana Ward |
8 |
Phoebe Helps Harvey Sorensen |
Finn Campbell Walker Georgia Sanders |
Scarlette Hill Georgia Sanders |
9 |
Billy Fisher Poppy Miles |
James Cameron Flynn Dengerink |
Lucas Rowson-Pickett |
10 |
Froley Anderson Emily Kesterton |
Meyanna Christensen Felix Fothergill |
Matilda Abraham-Williams Felix Fothergill Aoife O’Connell |
11 |
Lucas Allen Lara Smyth |
Gabriel Di Falco Cecily de Gooyer |
Cecily de Gooyer |
VALUES AWARDS
Year Level |
BASS |
CLARKE |
MCHAFFIE |
SAMBELL |
5 |
Jett Fawaz Sophie Morse |
Abigail Coulthurst Derby Smyth |
Charlie Matthews Isabella Slavovic |
Alfie Russo Amelia Russo |
6 |
Saxon Collier Lulu van der Walt |
Lachlan Phillips Mardi Strachan |
Zara Hill Frankie Leary |
Callan Reilly Ella Simpson |
7 |
Keahi Mana Poppy Michie |
Evie Hollings Emerson Salerno |
Judd Bland Lucy Thompson |
Georgie Callis Bonnie McBride |
8 |
Heath McLean Alexa Zalunardo |
Finn Campbell Walker Yasmin Gloria |
Harvey Leary Abbie Wines |
Maya Andersen Logan Chambers |
9 |
Mayla Genoni Claire Van der Heyden |
Archer Cameron Georgia Slidders |
Taya Herbert Harvey Kirk |
Harry Bentley Claire Peterson |
10 |
Perry McKay Elleah Rogers |
Eli Bowker Jasmine Ruffin |
Freya Berry Yu Yao |
Felix Fothergill Chloe Hosking |
11 |
Jazz Mau Zoe Scott |
Sophia Hungerford Tilly McKenna |
Ailish Flynn Daisy Fusinato |
Grace Morris Charlie Wilson |
Student Leadership team 2025
Teamwork, empathy, listening and plenty of other leadership skills were discussed and investigated by the 2025 student leadership team during their training day on Tuesday 2 December. The day spent together solidified a passionate team which has set high expectations of themselves as they undertake their roles officially in 2025.
Mr Corr (Principal), Mr Torstonson (Head of Senior School) and Mrs Milkins-Hendry (Director of Learning) were impressed with their maturity, innovation and united desire to have a lasting impact on the College in their final year. They made commitments to pay attention to their daily actions as well as working collaboratively on the major events with all Prep-Year 12 students at the centre of their thinking.
Karen Milkins-Hendry
Director of Learning
The End of Year 9
Year 9 End-of-Year Celebration
As we wrap up a fantastic year, it’s time to reflect on all the great moments and achievements that have made this year so special for Year 9. From exciting outdoor activities to academic successes, this year has truly been one to remember.
9K – Champions of the Community Games!
A huge congratulations to 9K for winning the Community Games in what was a nail-biting finish! The competition was incredibly close, but 9K showed incredible teamwork, spirit, and determination to take home the win. Everyone who participated put in their best effort, and it was amazing to see such a high level of engagement and camaraderie throughout the event.
Final Celebrations: Paintball & Awards Night
To celebrate the end of an awesome year, students took part in some exciting activities. The Paintball Day was a big hit, with students getting the chance to work together and enjoy a bit of friendly competition in an action-packed setting.
At the Awards Night, we recognised all the hard work and achievements of our Year 9 students. Many received awards for their dedication and efforts throughout the year, and we want to give a special shout-out to those who completed their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. It’s an impressive achievement that shows commitment and resilience, and we’re so proud of everyone who took part.
A Warm Welcome to the Incoming Year 8 Students
We were also thrilled to welcome the incoming Year 8 students, who joined us for a fun-filled Beach Day. They brought great energy, and it was fantastic to see them engage so well with the Year 9s. We’re excited to see them grow and thrive in the years to come.
Thank You and Congratulations
Year 9, you’ve been amazing this year! Thank you for all your hard work, enthusiasm, and the positive attitude you’ve brought to everything we’ve done. It’s been a pleasure watching you grow and achieve, and we’re all looking forward to seeing even more from you next year.
Sam Foura
Head of Year 9
STEM - Engineers without Borders High School Innovation
On Monday, 25 November 2024, 11 Year 10 students participated in an engineering challenge at the University of Melbourne. The task was to design an innovative project to support Saibai Island in the Torres Strait, considering factors including community involvement, environmental impacts and economics.
The day began with a tour of the university’s engineering facilities, including the Telstra Creator Space, which inspired everyone. We also had the opportunity to hear from experienced guest speakers who provided valuable insights into engineering and problem-solving. After consulting mentors and refining our designs, each team gave a 10-minute presentation. My team (Jasira, Issy, Johanna, Jasmine, Miki and myself) developed a solar distillation system that also monitored water quality, while the other team (Jeremy, Froley, Harry, Blake and Kadek) proposed an automatic boat and transportation plan.
Our team won first place, earning us the trophy and a trip to maccas on the way home. The entire experience helped us build teamwork and presentation skills, as well as deepen our understanding of engineering and the challenges faced by the Torres Strait Islands.
Tilly Stecher
Year 10
STEM - Real World Design Challenge
Five Year 10 students, Tilly Stecher, Issy Mahon, Eli Bowker-Keys, Freya Berry and Jasmine Ruffin, have just begun working on the Real World Design Challenge (RWDC). The RWDC is an international competition where students get the opportunity to work on real world engineering challenges in a team environment. The students need to address a challenge that confronts leading industries, utilising professional engineering software to develop their solutions and generating a presentation that convincingly demonstrates the value of their solutions.
The dedicated students came to school the day after the exams to get the most out of their first day working on the problem.
Melinda Kelly
STEM Coach
Reunited with Hosted Students
We occasionally hear about our students staying in touch with the Ibaraki Christian Junior High School students. Recently, the Baud family shared their experience visiting Japan. They toured our sister school and reconnected with the students they had hosted. It is wonderful to see these bonds continuing. We hope their visit to Japan was truly memorable.
Duke of Edinburgh Award
A group of adventurous students completed a Lake Eildon paddle for their Duke of Ed Gold Award. They endured a month's rain in one day but were rewarded with a magical Monday morning.
Ann-Marie McLean
Program Co-ordinator
Year 10 Marine Science
As part of the Year 10 Marine Science course, students recently attended two excursion on Phillip Island. They collected and recorded marine debris at Smiths Beach, learning about human impacts on coastal ecosystems and at Kitty Miller Bay, they snorkeled to document species diversity, exploring the rich marine biodiversity. These activities promoted environmental awareness and hands-on learning.
Ann-Marie McLean
Visual & Performing Arts
Junior School Soiree
Last week, music students from Prep to Year 4 performed for family and friends at their own classy evening soiree. It is not a small thing to take to the stage in front of 50-60 people and play an instrument.
It was a lovely evening, and all the students should be so proud of their achievements.
VCE Exhibition
Be sure to visit this incredible display of VCE Art from across our region at West Gippsland Arts Centre in Warragul. Newhaven College's students' art is part of the exhibition, with some pieces for sale!
Phillip Island Jazz award our students
Phillip Island Jazz has acknowledged the commitment of music students from the junior and senior schools of Bass Coast College and Newhaven College through its annual awards program. During the All Day Jazz Extravaganza, Newhaven College students Jasmine Turton (Year 12) and Georgia Sanders (Year 8) performed for all those in attendance. Both students received encouragement awards from Phillip Island Jazz, presented to them by Cr Ron Bauer.
Sport
Equestrian Dressage
Newhaven College Equestrian Team members competed at Hillcrest College’s recent Interschools Dressage Championships.
Year 5 student Grace Bailey competed in the Primary Preparatory class, riding two outstanding tests in a competitive field to win the Reserve Championship.
Year 10 student Isla Mclean also competed on the day in the Senior Preliminary class, also riding two beautiful tests, to walk away with the win of Reserve Champion. The Newhaven College Equestrian Team has generally concentrated on Interschool Show Jumping in the past, but with results like these we will certainly be turning our attention to Dressage Days in 2025.
Amanda Price
Bike Ed Award Winners
The Bike Education program aims to gain knowledge and understanding of the road traffic environment and road rules. Students develop the physical and cognitive skills to manage the road environment safely as cyclists. At the end of the program, a number of Year 4 students received awards for their participation from the Bike Ed Program.
Children are pictured with Don Turner, head of the Phillip Island Bike Users Group. Don and the BUG kindly donated over 30 prizes for our students.
Team 1: Dash, Conan, Rose, Don, Oscar, Kyle and Sophie
Team 2: Oliver, Isabel, Lucy, Don, Ned, Evie and Edward
Matt Jackson
Physical Education Teacher
Rocky Trails Interschool MTB Challenge
On Friday 15 November, 20 brave young representatives of Newhaven College travelled to the Silvan Mountain Bike Park to compete against seven other schools in the Rocky Trails Interschool MTB Challenge. With a shiny new bike trailer in tow, they prepared themselves mentally and physically for the challenge ahead. After registering, they set about setting their best times on a range of endurance challenges. Tearing through the hills of Silvan, the leaderboard swapped places countless times, and the smiles of each competitor as they passed the marshalling point were filled with personal pride as triumphs were achieved.
Racing against both the clock and the other schools, our youth raced through each element with confidence and enthusiasm. With skill, endurance, nerve and tenacity, our 20 students held their own and brought the challenge to much bigger contingents of students from competing schools. When time was eventually called, the podium was well represented by Newhaven students – Lucy Thompson and Hamish Dakers-Hock succeeding in securing themselves individual podium placings, and the group as a whole finished in second place overall. The day was yet another outstanding example of the Mountain Bike Academy bringing home accolades and a reputation as one of the fiercest competitors in the Victorian MTB community.
2025 promises to be filled with even more opportunities so get on board, get involved and get behind the Newhaven College MTB Academy and its fierce competitors! Go Newhaven!!
Steve Scott
Ethan's Go-Karting Success
Year 4 student Ethan Moyle has been Go Kart racing since he was 8 years old, and he remains extremely passionate about it. He is part of the junior racing league at Lemans in Dandenong for 8 to 12 year olds. Last week they had their end of season final race. Ethan placed first in both the season and the final race! This is now the second season that he has won back to back.
Ethan has done so well and excelled in his racing that he will be moving up into the next league at the beginning of the year competing against 12 to 17 year olds. This is a huge accomplishment at just 10 years old.
Well done Ethan!
Chaplain's Corner
For Unto Us a Child Is Born
There is a story that tells of a wealthy European family that decided to have their newborn baby baptised in their enormous mansion. Dozens of guests were invited to the elaborate affair, and they all arrived dressed to the nines. After depositing their elegant wraps on a bed in an upstairs room, the guests were entertained royally.
Soon the time came for the main purpose of their gathering: the infant’s baptismal ceremony. But where was the baby? No one seemed to know. The child’s governess ran upstairs and returned with a desperate look on her face. Everyone searched frantically for the baby. Then someone recalled having seen him asleep on one of the beds. The baby was on a bed alright, buried beneath a pile of coats, jackets and furs. The object of that day’s celebration had been forgotten, neglected and nearly smothered.
The baby whose birthday we celebrate at Christmas is easily hidden beneath the piles of traditions and cultural observances of the season. We need to enter every Advent season asking, “Where’s the baby?”
The ‘baby’ reminds us of God’s gift to mankind. John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave…”. The joys of giving are often amplified during the Christmas season, a time when generosity and goodwill shine brightly. However, the spirit of giving should go beyond just a single holiday, it should be woven into the fabric of our daily lives. Whether it’s sharing a smile, volunteering at a local charity, donating to a worthy cause or simply offering a helping hand to a neighbour, the act of giving brings a unique sense of fulfillment.
Whatever your cultural, religious or personal beliefs may be about Christmas, may this Christmas season fill your hearts with peace, love and happiness. Let us cherish the precious moments spent with loved ones, spreading kindness, and embracing the spirit of giving. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, may His blessings guide us through the coming year, filling our lives with purpose and grace.
Merry Christmas.
Pastor Andre
Chaplain
Community Links
CFA Training on College Grounds
The Phillip Island CFA Brigade completed some exercises on the school grounds this week. They worked on asset protection and responses to a running grass fire - all vehicles were involved and 2 of our very own volunteers Year 12 student Georgia Anderson and Year 6 Teacher Simon Furniss were involved!
Parker the Entrepreneur
Year 3 student, Parker Underwood, has started his own business, hiring out speakers and microphones. After saving his birthday money, doing odd jobs, chore money and running a fruit stand out the front of his home, Parker managed to save up enough to start a business. After chatting to mum and dad and looking at different business models and ideas he came across a small hiring business on Marketplace, located the CBD. So Parker decided to give this a try in the Bass Coast area. He purchased the products and his dad helped with the graphic design for the posters. Parker is now advertising his new business. He’s very excited to hire out his speakers and microphones for events in his local community!
STEM Zone Holiday Program
STEM Zone is hosting two amazing days of school holiday programs towards the end of January.
Confidence and Motivation
'Confidence and Motivation' are two essential traits that not only help young people believe in themselves, but also empowers them to face challenges and pursue their goals with resilience and purpose.
Fostering confidence and motivation in young people will help build their self-worth and emotional strength. This edition of SchoolTV provides practical strategies and guidance to nurture these essential qualities, ensuring children and adolescents thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Read the Report
