Connect @ BalCC Edition 3 2021

RESPECT COMPASSION HONESTY COMMITMENT UNITY EXCELLEnCE

What's Inside

5

Principal’s Message

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Yr 5 Travelling back in time

10

Courtney Graham nee Shardlow (Class of 2014)

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Built For Play

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Brendan Thomas (Class of 2016)

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French Celebration Day

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Prep - 100 Days Smarter

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Emily Lanyon nee Leviston (Class of 2013)

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Hayden Rees (Class of 2017)

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Minds in Motion

36

Book Week

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Science Week

45

Event Calander

46

Our New Staff

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Discover Today - Design Tomorrow

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Lower Primary Fun

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e h t m o r f e t o

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Each year, Term 3 is the season where schools commence planning in earnest for the following school year. Ballarat Christian College is no exception to this general rule, and despite the constraints that we have worked through during Term 3, we have successfully concluded the 2022 subject selection process, with Years 8 – 11 students selecting their 2022 options in Web Preferences. This information is matched against our staffing availability as a first step in the process of building the 2022 timetable.

Next year will also see the completion of the restructuring of our Primary classes. The dual Lower Primary model has worked very well this year and our Years 3 – 6 classroom teachers have been busy planning for the dual Middle and Upper Primary classes from 2022. We will continue to have a stand-alone Prep (Foundation) class, in line with the best-practice model currently employed in many Victorian schools. From 2022, our Primary school structure will be: Prep (Foundation), Lower Primary (Years 1 and 2), Middle Primary (Years 3 and 4) and Upper Primary Although there is some way to go in this process – and (Years 5 and 6). many elements are still very much in draft mode – I am pleased to note the following expansion in our Secondary At our current size, we will have one Prep Homeroom school: and two Homeroom groups each in Lower, Middle and • The addition of two Homeroom groups, with the Upper Primary. This structure will enable more uniform move to dual-streaming from Year 7 through to class sizes across Primary, whilst allowing the addition Year 10 of more Homeroom groups when enrolment growth • Further options being added at VCE level, including permits. The camping program will be revised to fit the Unit 1/2 level Applied Computer Science, Legal new structure, but I will leave the Head of Primary to Studies and English Literature and the return of History provide more details on this in due course. The composite (Revolutions) at Unit 3/4 level arrangement in Upper Primary will provide opportunity for our Year 5 students to benefit from the inclusion of Food 2022 will mark the final year of the Victorian Certificate and Design Technology into their curriculum, following of Applied Learning (VCAL) across all Victorian schools. the introduction of these subjects to our Year 6 students As a result, Year 10 students were not offered a VCAL this year. option in English or Mathematics in 2022 as it was not clear that they would be able to complete this pathway in I trust that you and your family will enjoy some time for the following years. Year 11 (2022) students will be able rest and recreation before we begin the final term for the to complete their vocational pathway as measures have year. May you know God’s peace and blessing upon been put in place to allow those students to transition to you, knowing that He goes before us and is with us in the new vocational stream within the Victorian Certificate whatever circumstances we might face. of Education in 2023.

Ken Nuridin Principal/CEO

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E E

M FR ES O SA M TH G

Ch B air oa ma rd n

As Board Chairman, I am privileged to have the opportunity to share a little about the College from the position of the Board. Through these challenging times as we manage our dayto-day lives, while dealing with the continuing lockdowns, I am proud to say that (despite multiple disruptions) we have continued to focus on delivering the highest level of schooling to all Ballarat Christian College students.

This year, we have been blessed with new innovative teaching and administration staff. This in turn has provided the opportunity to develop new programs, improve College processes and extend grounds works.

This has embodied significant work on developing the creek area into a more useable and attractive area of the College. We have provided more grassed areas, a new bridge, added a chicken coop and chickens, plus redeveloped the vegetable gardens into a more productive resource. In an age where individuals are increasingly more disconnected from the production process, this allows students to have hands on experience which will enrich their learning and provide skills towards a brighter future.

While building the Neville Hawkins Wing in 2019 required we remove the old flagpole in that area, we were able to replace this with three flagpoles at the front of the College; this has given us the opportunity to fly the Australian, Aboriginal, and College flags together.

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It is valuable for all those connected to the College to have an understanding into how the College Board functions. This enhances the College’s transparency.

Board meetings are held monthly from February to November. Pre-COVID-19, these meetings were held at the College, but in line with restrictions and current trends, we have been meeting more recently via video conferencing. The Board currently has seven members but is working towards increasing this number to the permitted nine members.

Parents are a crucial part of Board membership, and we currently have three Board members who are parents of students attending the College.

We have a very strong and diverse group of Board members covering a broad range of skills and knowledge.

The current Board members are myself as Board Chairman, Randall Dreger-Deputy Chairman, Lorraine Firth, Chris Duke, Jodie Rickard, Amy Lewis, and Pastor Tim Clark.

The College Principal and Business Manager are ex-officio members of the Board, they do not have voting rights but attend meetings, provide updates and input to Board decision making.

Board meetings focus on strategic issues, leaving the operational running of the College to the Principal and his highly skilled team. Board meetings cover agenda items such as the ‘Principal’s monthly report’, incoming and outgoing correspondence, ‘Finance and Risk Management Committee report’, ‘Child Safety report’, and updates on progress occurring in line with the Strategic Plan.

There are three committees of the Board.

• The Executive Committee (comprised of Board Chairman, Deputy Chairman, Principal, Business Manager) meets quarterly to discuss high level College direction.

• The Property Committee meets quarterly and is focused on the Property Master Plan, new building works and property improvements.

• The Finance and Risk Management Committee meets monthly (the week prior to the Board meetings) and reviews budget performance and finance-related issues, as well as risk management.

The 2020 Strategic Plan was developed in 2019 and it covers the period between 2020 – 2022. The Strategic Plan, although owned by the Board, is developed jointly between the College Executive Team and the Board. The current Strategic Plan has been focused on development of the Property Master Plan, development of the new Year 9 program and the introduction of composite classes in the Primary school.

A key component of this Strategic Plan is the building of a VCE/Resource Centre designed to replace the old VCE buildings and to be a new home for our Library. It is planned that this will incorporate study spaces for senior secondary students, open areas, a multi-purpose classroom, as well as the new Library. While this building will not be built in the period of the current Strategic Plan, we hope to complete the planning and funding components of the project within that timeframe.

I would like to thank all our parents and students for their hard work, resilience, and support in what can be described as unprecedented times. To the College staff who continue to work tirelessly and show exceptional flexibility through difficult circumstances, I thank them on behalf of the Board.

Ross Coventry - Board Chairman

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Travelling back in time

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Our Year 5 students spent two days during Term 3 attending the Sovereign Hill Costumed School experiencing life and schooling in a Goldfields school of the 1850’s. The costumed school experience is tailored to Year 5 and 6 students. As part of this program students were given the rare

opportunity to go behind the scenes in many of the Sovereign Hill businesses and experience first-hand life on the diggings. The two day excursion is an important part of our school curriculum, particularly in the light of the Year 5 history focus on ‘Early Colonisation and the Goldfields’.

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Courtney Graham Class of 2014

“This is where life has taken me....

I hope you enjoy the snapshot of my life since my school days at BalCC. A few weeks after graduating I ended up having spinal surgery to fix the curvature of my spine that I suffered with the whole of my schooling life. After four months of recovering, I went back to work but didn’t feel fulfilled.

I decided I wanted to travel abroad, with my first stop being England.

I flew out to England in October 2015 with my Nanna and lived

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(nee Sh

with her whilst I sorted out my next steps. I soon got a job at Subway and worked my way up to Assistant Manager. Two months into my life abroad, I met my future husband. We courted for nine months, and then travelled back to Australia so that he could meet my family.

pursue my lifelong career dream of becoming a nurse. I applied for a job as Healthcare Assistant at a local care home, supporting elderly people who suffer from Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and other various health and mobility issues.

We stayed in Australia for eleven months, worked when it was possible and eventually, on June 10, 2017, we became engaged. Shortly after, in August 2017, we flew back to England. We planned our wedding and worked. I went back to my job as Assistant Manager at Subway, but soon realised that I wanted to

On November 10, 2018, my fiancé and I got married in Bransgore, United Kingdom, with both of our families present. We had an amazing and unforgettable day.

We honeymooned in Edinburgh and settled down in Christchurch, Dorset, United Kingdom.

Alumni News

hardlow) 2019 was a year of discomfort for us both. My husband suffered with some unexplained medical issues, and as we adjusted to married life together, it tested the two of us. With God’s grace we were able to sing in the new year of 2020, and thanked God for teaching us patience in a year that was very complex.

2020 was a year of adapting. With the announcement of the COVID-19 pandemic, I became an essential worker. I became full-time at my job, and an opportunity to learn and expand my career was provided.

2021 began with a rocky start when I tested positive to COVID-19 at the start of January. Thankfully I wasn’t badly affected by the virus and after isolating for ten days, was able to return to work. I must admit that wearing hazmat suits whilst at work felt like something out of a horror film!! April 2021, I was very unwell.

I developed a secondary infection in my lung, of pneumonia and pleurisy.

Life has moved by so quickly and I find it incredibly scary how seven years has just gone by. It’s crazy to think I’m now mid-twenties!! I am still working towards my career goal of being a nurse, and every day I wake up grateful that I have an amazing job. I am very grateful for the schooling background that I received; as the College values have really helped define who I am.”

Following that I had an exacerbation of my asthma. Thankfully, my doctors and the hospital staff were able to help me get back to full health and I have since returned to work and am doing much better.

God bless, Courtney.

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Staff Profile

Malcolm Solomano Secondary Teacher

Malcolm grew up on the family farm at Talbot before going on to work in the building industry for over twenty years, working in the Maryborough area mostly but included three years when he worked in Site Management across the United Kingdom.

Malcolm completed a Bachelor of Education/ Technology at Federation University in Ballarat before managing secondary school alternate programs in Maryborough and Horsham, and for five years in Alice Springs. Upon returning to

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Victoria he spent more time teaching in Maryborough and in another program at Clunes before starting at BalCC in 2020.

The connection to BalCC was made when Malcolm’s youngest son, Isaac completed his final two years of schooling in 2018 and 2019. Malcolm currently teaches Maths, Christian Living, Work Related Skills and using his trade experience in teaching VET Building and Construction across secondary school year groups.

“

It was a great project where students could develop their skills and see the results of their work being appreciated by others.

”

Built for Play Students from the Certificate II in Building and Construction have recently completed two cubby houses for the Primary School area. Students have developed skills in hand and power tool use and have continued on from the work started by students last year. It has been a hands-on project where Year 10-12 students enhance their existing skills and use these in a real life project where they can see the benefits of their labour.

Mr Solomano, VET Trainer said, “ It was a great project where students could develop their skills and see the results of their work being appreciated by others.” He went on to say, “several students from last year have since found work in trade areas and we have used this project to enhance work opportunities for Ballarat Christian College students, as they enter the work force.”

Primary School students were very grateful to have these new additions in the area with an official opening and ribbon cutting ceremony performed by the Cert II students. Thank you cards were also presented to the staff involved in the project, Mr Solomano and Mr McInerney.

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UNITY 14 | BalCC BalCC

“Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.”

Psalm 86:11 BalCC | 15

“

My time at BalCC was phenomenal.

The caring teachers helped me become a person of integrity, dependability, passion, and faith.

”

BalC Alumni

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BRENDAN THOMAS Class of 2016

To achieve his career ambitions of becoming a Mechanical Engineer or Fabricator/Boilermaker Class of 2016 graduate, Brendan Thomas completed a Certificate II in Agriculture (2015 VET) and Certificate II in Engineering (2016 VET) while studying at Ballarat Christian College. These VET studies led Brendan into an apprenticeship as a Boilermaker at Sandwith Industrial Services, where he worked until the mid this year when he commenced his own business, TM Engineering. When he is not in his workshop he is working on the family farm.

“My time at Ballarat Christian College was phenomenal.

The caring teachers helped me become a person of integrity, dependability, passion, and faith. Ballarat Christian College was not just a school, not just an education, but it was also a community. I loved having a great relationship with fellow students and teachers. The teachers constantly encouraged me not only in my faith, but also towards my education, making sure that they helped me achieve and steer me towards what I was passionate about.

I loved the range of co-curricular activities that the College hosts, especially the energy breakthrough team, South Star Warriors. I joined the team in Year 7 and loved attending the after-school programme, building, modifying, and engineering the trikes to race at races around Australia. South Star Warriors was a massive influence on me and sparked my interest in engineering and metal fabrication.

I had in school and to some extent, I do miss it. I miss the atmosphere, the community engagement within the College, students and teachers encouraging one another in their faith, the servanthood, and the encouraging teachers.

Being at BalCC for ten years I saw the College grow from two separate schools, to unite into the one College.

It still amazes me all the latest improvements. Some being the creek revived and new classes affiliated with the creek and garden. The new Primary school building. And improvements around the MPC. It’s a shame I am not there to experience it first-hand!

Starting my business has been the best decision I have ever made (and yes, it was in the middle of a lockdown).

But what have I to fear? For God is on my side. I am faithful He will bring the work in (and He has). I am finding running my own business gives me a lot of freedom, but also the need for discipline to knuckledown and get the work done, as there is no boss looking over my shoulder. In a lot of ways, BalCC has prepared me for it both with some knowledge and the discipline.

During my work I have done quite a variety if things from farm and machinery repairs, stock trailer extension, stainless steel water tanks, a wine rack for a restaurant, stainless teel letterbox to garden boxes, plus a lot more.”

VET studies are a great opportunity to go out and experience the hands on side of learning 'real world' while still in school. It gives you the knowledge and skills that are used in the workplace today. Give it a go. Pick a VET subject that interests you and see how you would go in the real world.

Brendan’s VET studies gave him the skills and experience to enter the World Skills Australia competition in Regionals 2015 and Nationals in 2016 (VETis Metals and Engineering), where he achieved second place in both competitions. As an apprentice he entered the Regionals in 2019 (Construction steelwork) were he achieved first place. He is now training to compete in the 2022 National competition set in October (Construction Steelwork).

BalCC also prepared me for my future at TAFE. I had all the technical know-how and math knowledge, so that when I started studying engineering, I didn’t feel like a fish out of water. I often look back on the times

When not he’s not working Brendan enjoys four wheel driving, and gold panning and is also involved at Rise Christian Church as a Sound Technician for the band and attends the young adult’s group.

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French CELEBRATION

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During the last week of Term 2 we held a French Celebration Day. Students from Prep-Year 8 dressed up for the theme ‘La France’ and enjoyed a musical performance and mime by Jacques and Philippe from C’est si bon. The performance included audience participation, as the experienced

performers took the students on an hilarious journey of French drama and music using accordion, fife, drum, bombarde, singing, magic and mime. A French themed meal deal was offered by the Canteen and thank you to all the Year 9 students who helped Mrs Blackshaw prepare the meals.

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“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”

Romans 12:4-5 NIV

TOGET HER everyone achieves more

At the start of Term 3 our teaching staff took part in the 2021 Christian Schools Australia Vic/Tas State Conference and a professional development day. Due to COVID-19 restrictions this year’s conference took place via broadcast media, with our staff viewing online from our MPC. The theme for this year’s conference was ‘Pedagogy-The Leadership of Learning’. Keynote speaker, Dr David Smith spoke on ‘Pedagogy in Christian Schools’ before staff broke up into subject focussed discussion groups.

On the professional development day staff took part in an anaphylaxis training update and a worship session on ‘A Team of Builders’. As a social activity staff took part in

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a lawn bowling at Sebastopol Bowling Club, receiving tips and pointers from some of the players before enjoying lunch at the club. Thank you to the staff and players at Sebastopol Bowling Club for their wonderful hospitality.

UNITY in our COMMUNITY: During Term 3 we brightened the day of our staff by delivering gift bags.

The contactless deliveries saw each staff member receive a small token of appreciation for the amazing work each and every one of them have been doing. Please continue to encourage and pray for our staff and the role each of them plays in our BalCC community.

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100 Days Smarter

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Our Prep students celebrated 100 days of learning.

To mark the event our Preps had the option to wear casual clothes or a 100 theme dress-up. The Preps did literacy and numeracy activities based on the '100' theme in the morning and made 100 days smarter crowns.

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Emily Lanyon

(nee Leviston)

CLASS OF 2013 “After completing year 12 at Ballarat Christian College in 2013, I commenced a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) at RMIT. While studying I continued living in Ballarat and worked part-time as a Marketing Assistant at a small advertising agency in Ballarat, working on local and interstate businesses such as Teachers Health Fund and O’Connors Farm Machinery.

After graduating in 2017 (and after doing some travelling here and there!) I moved to Melbourne to start full time work as a Campaigns and Sponsorship Assistant for Mercedes-Benz Australia, at Head Office. I learned the ropes of branding by monitoring all marketing materials from the car dealer network to ensure they abided by Brand Guidelines. I coordinated my first national product campaign for G-Class car range, this included my work going across some national magazines and publications!

In 2019 I shifted to a media agency, OMD, working on social media advertising for Coles, Target, and Libra. While at OMD, I got married to my then fiancé, Elliott, who also grew up in Ballarat! We began attending Hillsong church together in Melbourne’s west and bought a little apartment to call home in West Footscray.

Since December 2020 I have been working as a Marketing Specialist for Haymes Paint, where I am now managing B2B advertising campaigns for painters, architects & builders.

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When I am not working, I enjoy staying fit and healthy, exploring all the Melbourne food and drink offerings, and spending time with my husband, family and friends (new and old!). I continue to be involved in a few Christian organisations such as State Youth Games, which is a great avenue to stay connected.

My time at Ballarat Christian College was a positive experience before I launched into the crazy world of university and career. Professionally, the subjects I chose were successful in getting me into the field I wanted and set me up for a positive start as a marketer. Business Management, Visual Communications and Psychology all assisted in my studies at RMIT. Personally, the Christian environment at BalCC set me up well for combatting the world of university and work, making sure I stayed connected in Christian spheres throughout university. The knowledge I gained about the Christian worldview at BalCC meant I could make sense of life beyond school and could connect with people from all worldviews and walks of life.

From my experience, don’t overthink your future career. Find something you naturally love, study that area, and you will eventually navigate your way to the job you truly love! I simply chose subjects I liked, a university degree that sounded like a combination of those things, and now the opportunities are endless.”

Alumni News

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“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be disma

old you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10 NIV 26 | BalCC

your God. I will strengthen you and help

ayed, for I am

WE ARE

WITH

YOU As our Year 12 Class of 2021 enter the last term of their secondary education we commend them for the courage and resilience they have shown during a year of uncertainty and change.

We continue to encourage and uplift them in prayer as they prepare for their final term at BalCC.

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Always here to help “

"Our Learning Enhancement Centre (LEC) is a wonderful space within our College community that is devoted to assisting students engage in the learning process. We provide adjustments to support diverse ways of learning and aim to support students’ specific needs."

”

Our dedicated team of professionals in the LEC are led

by Mrs Caroline Morrison (LEC Coordinator) and Mrs Emily Westblade (LEC Teacher) who both carry a passion for the enhancement of learning for all students. Experienced and committed Educational Support Staff assist teachers from Prep-Year 12 with implementing strategies in the classroom to cater for students’ diverse educational needs.

The LEC team collaborates with teachers, parents/carers, students and therapeutic professionals to provide a range of adjustments and teaching methods enabling every learner to participate in the learning process.

Educational Support Staff (ESS) support students in the classroom in conjunction with teaching staff.

Our ESS staff are highly valued, as they help facilitate learning by rewording or reworking concepts with students, offer individual and/ or small group work within the classroom and build relationships with and between students. We promote an inclusive classroom and respect the diversity of students’ learning needs, which enriches our College community.

In the Primary school students are given the opportunity to access support on a small group basis for THRASS training in the LEC led by Mrs Emily Westblade.

These groups include but are not limited to the following: • Chess Club –

Mrs Tania Duthie • Finger knitting –

Mrs Caroline Morrison &

Mrs Rebecca Sebit • Mindfulness Colouring –

Mrs Tania Duthie and

Mrs Linda Featherstone • Craft –

Mrs Sarah Inglis and

Mrs Christine Barlow A Homework Club during Lunch 2 operates in the LEC led by Mrs Duthie and is available to Secondary students requiring additional support.

A Homework Club is also available on Wednesday afternoons from 3:30-4:30pm for students in Year 6-12 and is led by our dedicated teaching staff members.

Our College uses THRASS (Teaching Handwriting, Reading And Spelling Strategies) from Prep. These focus sessions aim to further develop students’ skills in understanding and developing tools to incorporate the use of the THRASS in all aspects of their education.

The LEC promotes building relationships and community and has started running a variety of programs throughout the lunch periods. In the upper Primary school, Mrs Cath McMurry is leading a crocheting group called the ‘M’Ms’. The group is crocheting handbags using plastic bags in an effort to contribute to sustainable living. A range of activities run during lunch periods led

by ESS staff and some teachers.

The LEC also supports students that require Individual Education Plans (IEPs). Mrs Morrison and Mrs Westblade liaise closely with teaching staff and ESS to ensure that students are provided with Individual Education Programs (IEPs) and/or adjustments in the classroom to promote growth and success. Student Support Group (SSG) meetings are held each semester for students who receive an IEP. Recognising and appreciating the diverse needs of students, adjustments can be provided in classrooms to benefit all students.

Students who require adjustments but don’t require an IEP are supported with a Consultation Document. This document alerts all their teachers to specific adjustments which assist in promoting their engagement and learning in the classroom.

The LEC, in consultation with teachers, assists the College in applying for Special Provision for VCE students.

We are currently in consultation with EGF Solutions/Gforce Inclusive Employment to develop career and transition readiness skills in students with specific learning needs.

The LEC building provides a space for approved therapists to hold sessions with students during school hours. It also provides an alternate learning space for staff to work with a range of abilities with access to alternate seating options. Rooms are available for students to sit tests or exams within a quiet environment.

For students wishing to extend themselves academically and take up the personal challenge of competing in international assessments, Ballarat Christian College will be participating in the world-renowned ICAS Assessments this year. ICAS is designed to target students’ high-order thinking and problemsolving skills in English, Mathematics, Science, Writing, Spelling Bee and Digital Technologies. Assessments are available to students from Years 4-10.

With experience and a commitment to ongoing training and development the LEC team meet regularly to adjust the way in which we offer quality support to our staff and students while striving to uphold our College values. The LEC promotes collaborate planning and partnership with families endeavouring to create a positive and enriching environment for learning to empower all students to reach their God-given potential!

Caroline Morrison LEC Coordinator Emily Westblade LEC Teacher

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Staff Profile

Kirsty Johnson LPB Teacher

Kirsty completed her Bachelor of Primary Education at the University of Melbourne in 2003. She started her career teaching Year One at Waverley Christian College for two years before getting married and moving to Ballarat where she worked at Ballarat and Clarendon College teaching Year 1-2. She missed teaching in a Christian school environment and

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came to us in 2008 where she was the Year 1 and 2 classroom teacher. Since then she has been a classroom teacher and casual relief teacher while raising her family. Kirsty returned to full-time teaching in 2019. Both her girls attend the College, and her son will join us in Prep next year.

OUR TEAM

During Term 3 we launched an Our Team page on the BalCC website.

CLICK HERE TO SEE

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7 CLASS OF 201

“Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.”

-Walt Disney

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Hayden Rees attended BalCC for all of his secondary schooling and graduated in the Class of 2017, with career aims of working as an actor and pursuing his interests in photography. Today Hayden is working as a Drama teacher at Curtain Call Performing Arts Studios and is studying a Bachelor of Performing Arts (Acting and Music Theatre) at the Ballarat Arts Academy at Federation University. Here Hayden shares some of his experiences since graduation.

“Ever since I left Ballarat Christian College, I was worried about what I was going to do afterwards. But I learned that I should always put God first, and that He always has a plan. In 2018, I worked as a drama teacher at Curtain Call Performing Arts Studios (I have been performing with Curtain Call for fifteen years) and I performed in the musical, ‘Grease’ with the studio. I did an internship at Hilltop Church, and I completed a Certificate III in Photography at Oxygen College.

In 2019, I continued my work at Curtain Call. I performed in the musicals, ‘Chicago’, and ‘Mary Poppins’ as ‘Mr Banks’. I completed a Certificate II in Dance and Theatre Studies at Aus Dance. I performed in community events and dance competitions including the Wakakirri Dance Festival and Ballarat Carols by Candlelight. I appeared as an extra in a football movie, where I got to act alongside actor, Brett Climo (best known for his work in ‘A Place to Call Home’). I took singing lessons in Melbourne with actor, Thomas McGuane. I auditioned to study at the Ballarat Arts Academy at Federation University and after a two week process where I had to perform Shakespeare, sing, and dance I was accepted into the course.

In 2020, I appeared as an extra in the movie, ‘Road to Boston’, which was filmed locally in Ballarat. I began my journey studying a Bachelor of Performing Arts (Acting and Music Theatre) at the Ballarat Arts Academy. In the course I learnt new skills in acting, singing, and dancing. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic I was only on campus for three weeks. We had to transfer the whole first year course to online. It was great that we could continue, however it did have its challenges. I believe, though that the pandemic has made us stronger as a group. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the arts and entertainment industry have been going through a tough

time. Over 10,000 people who work in the industry have lost their jobs and shows all over Australia have been postponed or cancelled. To help struggling artists I created and started an online show called ‘Let’s Go on With the Show’, with the aim to raise awareness of the arts and entertainment industry. Some of the guests I got to interview included students from Curtain Call, BalCC Alumni Ella Bedggood and Genevieve Withers, performers - Patricia Ward Kelly, Tarik Frimpong, Samantha Dodemaide, Stephen Mahy, and Michael Whalley.

In 2021, we got to go back to campus, and it was great to see people in person, and learn new techniques which included accents, mock auditions, and film and television acting. In June, I finally got to perform in live show; it has been a year since I last performed on the stage. The play was called, ‘Metamorphoses’. We would rehearse the play four days a week and we only had four weeks of rehearsals. In the play, I played a narrator, a villainous creature named ‘Hunger’, and an old man named, ‘Philemon’. It was a great learning and acting challenge.

It was exciting that we were able to perform to an audience. We are hoping to perform in another show at the end of the year.

The main advice that I would give to people who are currently studying whether it is high school, or university is to make sure you take time for yourself. Do things that make you happy. It can be drawing, cooking, watching a movie, listening to music, or reading. It is important to look after yourself, particularly during this pandemic. I also recommend praying and going for a walk to get some fresh air. It can really clear your mind. Other advice I can give is talk to friends, family, and teachers. Always remember that there are people who love and support you. Always be grateful, and take care of yourself, and the people around you. ““For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”” – Jeremiah 29:11 “Be strong and courageous. Do not afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

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MO N I N O I S T D N I M

The Year 11 General Maths students carried out an investigation where they measured how far ‘Bungee Bob’ fell with varying numbers of rubber bands attached and then graphed out the results. While the Year 11 Physics class were pleased to try out our new motion sensors to study motion. Using a laptop, students used Neulog software to plot a graph of the motion of a dynamics cart in real time, which the students then analysed. The students are still getting used to the devices, which are a significant technological advance on the old tickertimers. The sensor uses ultrasonic sound to detect an object’s movements.

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Artrageous " Journey

"

Our Year 7 and 8 Visual Arts students continued their “Artrageous Journey” this term “visiting” Japan, which also tied in with the commencement of the Olympic Games.

The students were able to do artworks

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composed from a combination of different media and materials, with students selecting to do pencil drawings, digital drawings, semi-abstract portraits, and water colour paintings to create some amazing art.

Yummy Yummy in my Tummy Yummy Yummy in my Tummy Yummy

Yummy Yummy in my Tummy Yummy Yummy in my Tummy Yummy

Yummy in my Tummy Yummy Yummy in my Tummy

Yummy in my Tummy Yummy Yummy in my Tummy With a scoop of flour, a dash of butter, a cup of milk and our Year 7A Food Technology students had mixed up their first batch of scones. Taking to the kitchen for their first hands on lesson the students tried their hand at baking and took home a warm batch of scones for their efforts.

While the Year 8A Food Technology students were making pancakes and getting creative with food colours. During Term 3 the students will complete a food design brief, which will see them make up an idea for a recipe, prepare a grocery list and manage their time as they create their dishes.

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SCIENCE

WEEK

To celebrate National Science Week our BalCC Science department ran lunchtime activities for Primary and Secondary students. National Science Week is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology. The school theme for 2021 was Food: Different by Design to honour the United Nations International Year of Fruits and Vegetables and the International Year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development.

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livin' it up in the city

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Our Year 5 students had the full urban camp experience in Melbourne during Term 3. While on camp students visited Scienceworks, including the planetarium show “Solar System Odyssey” and did a tour of Parliament House, where they participated in a role play activity in which they had to debate the ban of plastic straws in Victoria.

The students also enjoyed a picnic lunch at the Carlton Gardens, saw the Royal Exhibition Building and spent time at the Melbourne Museum, where they saw a 3-D IMAX show about the Great Barrier Reef. Along with all the locations visited, students also played card games, enjoyed playing sport games on the Royal Park oval and enjoyed spending quality time with their classmates and teachers. The students also learnt how to travel around the city using public transport and put on a talent show with a variety of performances such as singing, dancing, telling jokes and doing magic tricks!

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Rebecca Sebit

Student Wellbeing team

Rebecca has been employed at Ballarat Christian College since 2017 in an Education Support role and has experience working with students with a wide range of complex support needs. Rebecca is currently undertaking a Diploma of Christian Counselling at AIFC integrating psychology, theology, and spirituality. Rebecca has a passion for client lead counselling with compassion, and supporting people to overcome issues related to anxiety, depression, addiction, and grief. Rebecca also works in a part-time capacity in our Student Wellbeing team, joining Pastor Steve Shaw and Ashleigh Dalton.

Amy Parry Graduation

Congratulations to BalCC Administration team member, Amy Parry on graduating with a Certificate III in Business from Ballarat Group Training (BGT). Amy undertook the certificate course as part of her one year traineeship at BalCC that involved on the job learning and training through BGT. Amy was awarded her certificate

by BGT Trainer & Assessor, Denise Wren and Apprentice & Trainee Consultant, Troy Westblade.

Amy will continue on at BalCC in the Administration team in an Accounts role, where she will continue to further her skills.

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EVENT

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Parent Lounge

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Rachel Fuentes

Rachel Fuentes has joined our Administration team, taking on the role of Receptionist. Rachel is taking over the role from Amy Parry, who has moved to other administrative duties in the office. Please make Rachel welcome as she settles in at the front desk at BalCC.

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Isaac Baker Isaac Baker will be working in the ICT Department with our ICT Manager, Trevor Clough. Isaac was a graduate of our class of 2017, and we welcome him back to the College as a member of staff.

PREVIOUS EDITIONS CLICK HERE

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Discover Today Design Tomorrow The Year 8 Digital Technology students visited Ballarat Tech School (BTS) during Term 3 for an automation excursion.

Automation is the creation and application of technology to monitor and control the production and delivery of products and services. Automation changes how we do business and the type of manufacturing jobs available.

Over the day students gained experience and understanding in robotic applications, investigating, Applied Math (coordinates)

and different end effectors and applications. The students also used mini-industrial robots and took part in basic electronics and programming.

BalCC students have the opportunity to participate in the innovative education programs offered at BTS, hosted by Federation University Australia (FedUni) at their SMB campus. BTS programs are focused on supporting students to gain science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) skills and capabilities.

To learn more about the Ballarat Tech School programs head to:

ballarattechschool.vic.edu.au 48 | BalCC

WORKING TOWARDS A GREAT FUTURE

Our Year 10 students recently took part in structured workplace learning (SWL). SWL is different to and much more than a work experience program, as it complements the training undertaken at school and provides the context for enhanced skill development, practical application of industry knowledge and increased employment opportunities.

The students obtained SWL placements in the following industries - IT, hospitality, health, farming, automotive, beauty, fitness, law and electrical.

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ACTIVITY DAY

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During Term 3 the Secondary teachers, Student Wellbeing and Senate hosted a casual dress day for Secondary students, along with a range of activities that raised awareness of the importance of mental health. We understand that these times are difficult and more than ever we need to connect with each other and help out. Each of the Secondary classes participated in a game, devotion, discussion, and a Kahoot that all centred around lifting spirits and mental health. Well done to our Senate who were instrumental in planning and organising activities for the day.

Close to the Jack Our Year 9 students have commenced lawn bowls as part of their Health and Physical Education classes for Term 3. The students walk to Sebastopol Bowling Club, where volunteers from the club are teaching them skills and techniques, as well as providing opportunities for socialisation.

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PERFORMING ARTS

During Term 3 the Year 3 Performing Arts students have been learning about melody and playing melodies on glockenspiels and other mallet percussion instruments.

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VEGGIE OLYMPICS The Year 4 students held their own ‘Veggie Olympics’ during Term 3.

The students created their athletes and then gave an oral presentation about their athlete’s sport and background, before going on to do a written piece about their athlete.

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LOWER

SOCCER

The Lower Primary A class were out learning some soccer skills during Term 3, as part of their Health & Physical Education

POTATO O

Who watched the you're not really in a positive way to b together, cheering Lower Primary B stu Olympics by partic Olympics’. The stud profile and particip events based arou built in a range of M

PRIMARY

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Olympics? Even if nto sports, it's such bring our nation our country on! The udents celebrated the cipating in the ‘Potato dents made an athlete pated in a range of und the Olympics and Maths skills.

PADDOCK TO PLATE

During Term 3 the Lower Primary classes are studying Paddock to Plate. They are focusing on animals and plant crops grown on a farm and what we can get from them. The students have been looking at how our food gets from the paddock to our plate. They will be looking at dairy products, eggs, rice, wheat, sugar, cotton, and wool. The students were lucky to have a fellow student’s two lambs, Duke and Max come to school for a pat, hold and bottle feed

Board Director

Tim Clark New Board Director

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Pastor Tim Clark to the Ballarat Christian College Board as a Director. Originally from Ballarat Tim moved to New South Wales to train for ministry at the Churches of Christ Theological College N.S.W (now called Australian College of Ministries). After graduating in 1995, he had fruitful ministry roles as the Youth Pastor and Pastor of churches in New South Wales, South Australia, and Victoria.

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Tim is currently working as the Pastor of the Peel St Church of Christ, which is Tim’s home church and where he grew up and was baptised. Tim is a father of four children, three who are graduates of the Ballarat Christian College, with his youngest son currently in Year 9 at the College. Tim loves spending time with his children, driving and working on his EH Holden, playing badminton and supporting the North Melbourne Kangaroos.

PR IN

AL C IP

During Term 3 we held a morning tea for staff to celebrate Principal’s Day. Our Business Manager, Simon Edwards thanked Principal, Ken Nuridin, along with our Head of Secondary–Scott McKenzie, Head of Primary–Bianca Francica, Acting Head of Primary–Emily Westblade and our Director of Teaching & Learning–Julie Gall for their contributions to the College, especially during the challenging times presented by COVID. Thank you to Wild Honey Grazing Co’, a local business owned and run by Class of 2016 graduate, Millie Williams-Kane for catering the morning tea.

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Find us on Alumni We are excited to launch our Ballarat Christian College Alumni Facebook page. At Ballarat Christian College we are keen to be involved with our students beyond graduation and recognise that being part on an alumni community can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

Through our alumni community you can: · Stay connected to the people with whom you studied and socialised. · Contribute write ups and photos telling us about what you’ve been involved with since graduating from BalCC. · Keep up to date on the happenings and developments at BalCC. · Enquire about volunteering and work experience placements at BalCC. · Advise, help, and inspire current students by providing career or study advice at BalCC Career and Study Skills days.

To join our alumni community and get involved, please connect with us via email with your preferred contact details to alumni@balcc.vic.edu.au

Like, Follow and Share Ballarat Christian College Alumni Facebook page

Ballarat Christian College P-12 Facebook page.

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Connect Publication Team Ruth Orr & Tim Weatherstone.

Disclaimer: The Connect@BalCC publication is a depiction of Term 3, 2021 and is not a detailed record of all events at the College during that term.

If a person has been omitted or errors have been included, please do accept our apologies.

03 5337 5900 bcc@balcc.vic.edu.au www.balcc.vic.edu.au Ballarat Christian College P-12 Cnr Yarrowee & Vickers Streets, Sebastopol, Victoria 3356

Every learner reaching their God-given potential