Atthe end of Term 2 we were visited by former BalCC Principal, Dr Joy McRae, who served in the role from 1988-1991.
During her tenure Dr McRae chose a school motto of “Serve one another in love” from Galatians 5:16.
Since 1991, Dr McRae has been involved in charitable work overseas. During a brief visit to Ballarat, she took the opportunity to reconnect with the College and meet with our current Principal, Mr Ken Nuridin, to see firsthand how the College has grown and developed over the years.
LOG CABIN RETREAT
Inthe last week of Term 2 our Year 11s took part in a four-day retreat at Log Cabin Camp as part of their Christian Studies training. The retreat forms a major part of their study for Christian Living, as they engage in a series of activities, discussions and periods of silent reflection. The focus of the retreat is based around three questions: “Who am I?” “How can I discover God’s will?” and “How can I live in forgiveness?”
The Year 11 students enthusiastically embraced the range of activities on offer at Log Cabin Camp. Under the leadership of Camp Director Matthew Golding, a BalCC Class of 2023 graduate, they’ve tackled the flying fox, click and climb, giant swing, and milk crate stacking. In addition to the adventure-based fun, students also participated in devotions, a night hike, and a karaoke evening.
MOCK INTERVIEW
Atthe end of Term 2 our Year 10 students were given the opportunity to practice their work-ready skills by attending a ‘Mock Interview’. Four members of the public (Jenny Sheriff, Highlands LLEN; Ally Dovaston, Highlands LLEN; Holly Carter, The Smith Family; and Katie McIver, Apex) took on the role of interviewers, interviewing students for the role of either a Hospitality or Retail
worker. The experience may have been a little nervewracking for some of our students, but the Interviewers were impressed with the attitude, professionalism and in particular the skills (often from volunteering) that many of the students displayed, all of which puts them in good stead for the future.
CSA CONFERENCE & PD DAY
Atthe start of Term 3 our staff attended the Christian Schools Australia (CSA) Victorian State Conference at the Belgrave Heights Convention Centre. The day included a time of worship and thoughtprovoking keynote sessions. We were privileged to hear from:
Dr Mandy Smith – Beyond the Buzzword: A Biblical Approach to Wellbeing
Dr Darren Iselin – Student Flourishing in Australian Christian Schools
Dr Katherine Thompson – From Vision to Practice: Advancing Student Wellbeing in Christian Schools
Dr Jon Eckert – Gritty Optimism: Nurturing Joy and Resilience in Students and Educators
The next day staff participated in a Professional Development Day, beginning with a devotion led by Major Zane Kaupt from the Greater Ballarat Salvation Army. The day continued with a fun and engaging team-building activity at Oz Tenpin & Entertainment Centre Ballarat.
ART IN FOCUS
DuringTerm 2 students in the Year 9 & 10 Extended Art elective were given two weeks (four periods) to study the famous Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo. They were required to find out about her life, her culture, her accident and other interesting facts about her and her artworks. Frida was known for her many self-portraits.
Students completed some written work and then moved on to creating a portrait about Frida. Students were able to use a variety of drawing and painting materials and
techniques. They were to think about the limitation of time constraints. I think Frida would have been delighted with the work our Year 9 & 10s produced about her, in just one practical lesson.
The Year 12 Art Creative Practice students were able to go and visit the Frida Kahlo exhibition at the Bendigo Art Gallery in Term 2 where they viewed her artwork, clothing, paintings and photographs.
Mrs Carol Clough - Faculty Leader - Visual Arts
CSEN CROSS COUNTRY
At the end of Term 2 a large group of enthusiastic runners made up of Primary and Secondary students represented BalCC in Bundoora at the annual CSEN Cross Country Championships against other Christian Schools from around the state. All students were involved in training for the event during lunchtimes at school and also in their own time.
Thanks to BalCC staff who attended: Mr Dale Darby, Mr Matthew Thomson, Mrs Kaylene Templar, Mrs Priscilla Samuels and Miss Melissa O’Hara. Special thanks also to: Ms Laura Cumming and Mrs Bianca Stanton (parent volunteers) and Ms Karen Farquhar for coordinating.
Primary students ran distances of 2km or 3km Secondary students ran either 3km or 4km. The weather held off and the competitors even saw some blue skies.
All results are available at: https://my.raceresult.com/347113/
Secondary Results
21 & Under Boys: Gibson Paxman - GOLD, Alex Lopez - SILVER
16 & Under Boys: Daniel Rodwell - GOLD
15 & Under Boys: Cooper Cumming - GOLD
14 & Under Girls: Meg McIntosh - SILVER
13 & Under Boys: Isaac Rodwell - GOLD
Sam Renfrey - BRONZE
Josh Sony - SILVER
Primary Results
11 & Under Boys: Carl Skewes - SILVER
11 & Under Girls: Lexie Cumming - BRONZE
10 & Under Gilrs: Zoe McIntosh - BRONZE
HOUSE TEAM BUILDING
Inthe last week of Term 2 our Secondary students took part in a House team building activities, which were designed to promote College spirit, student engagement, and healthy physical activity through friendly inter-house competitions and activities.
The event was organised and led by our enthusiastic House Captains, Vice Captains and Senate Representatives, in collaboration with our dedicated Physical Education teachers. Students participated in a range of fun and inclusive physical challenges aimed at fostering teamwork and house pride, while also collaborating on the creation of unique house chants and logos
COMBINED CHAPEL
Inthe final week of Term 2 we gathered as a whole College community for a special combined Chapel service. The Senior Secondary Band led us in worship, joined by staff musicians Mr Hayden Croton, Mr Tim Weatherstone and Mr Isaac Baker. Lower Primary B brought energy and joy with a lively wiggle break. Pastor Tim Clark from Peel Street Church of Christ shared a message based on
Colossians 3:12–14, encouraging us to clothe ourselves in spiritual virtues such as compassion, kindness, and love.
The service also included ‘I Believe’ and baptism presentations with our College Captains praying over the students before the Primary Choir closed the service by singing a blessing.
NOTCHBOARDS
Our Certificate II in Building and Construction students have been working on producing a timber notch board game. The students developed skills in the drop saw, router and sander use, along with painting skills. Students made over 100 pieces which will add to the creative play items the College has already. The game is designed to enhance hand co-ordination and creative teamwork, across the Primary School years.
GAGA PIT GRAND OPENING
Over the past few months, our Certificate II in Building and Construction students have been hard at work building a Gaga ball pit for the Lower Secondary area of our campus. Gaga ball, a fast-paced and energetic game similar to dodgeball, is played in an octagonal pit.
In later Term 3, the new Gaga pit was officially opened during a special event attended by all secondary students. The Certificate II in Building and Construction students and their teacher, Mr Malcolm Solomano, along with Head of Secondary, Scott McKenzie proudly took centre stage, cutting the ribbon and launching the pit into action. A fantastic achievement and a great addition to our College grounds—well done to everyone involved!
Atthe start of Term 2 our Year 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to attend a careers presentation delivered by representatives from the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Warrant Officer Class 2 Iian Cullen and Able Seaman Bianca James shared valuable insights into the diverse career pathways available within the ADF. Their presentation was followed by an engaging Q&A session, where students asked thoughtful questions and learned more about life and opportunities in the Defence Force.
From 11 August-14 November the ADF will have a popup careers centre at Training Lane, Ballarat (next to the Skills and Job Centre – Fed Uni). The centre will be open Monday-Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm and Saturday-Sunday: 9:00am-3:00pm.
The centre will provide the community with an opportunity to connect with ADF Careers, where the onsite team will be available to:
• Support the commencement of applications for roles within Navy, Army and Air Force.
• Mentor active candidates throughout the application process.
• Provide support and advice on fitness techniques and readiness.
For further information visit: events@dfr.com.au https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/
CAREERS DAY
Atthe start of Term 3 students from both Primary and Secondary participated in the College’s annual Careers Day. Primary teachers organised a range of career-focused activities within their individual homerooms, while Secondary students followed a structured timetable featuring a variety of career-related sessions.
To complement these activities, the entire College community took part in a Careers-themed dress-up day. Both students and staff dressed to represent careers or ministries they aspire to pursue, or roles they find challenging or inspiring.
In Term 3 we held our annual Subject Selection Expo was held for students in Years 8 to 11. The expo featured an informative presentation by Scott McKenzie, Head of Secondary, who outlined the various Secondary School pathways available. Students also had the opportunity to explore a wide range of booths hosted by both BalCC staff and external exhibitors, providing insights into study and career pathways.
To support students and parents/carers in making informed decisions, the BalCC Secondary Pathways Handbook 2025 offers detailed information on subject offerings, VCE/VET options, and post-school pathways. https://issuu.com/ballaratcc/docs/balcc_secondary_ pathways_handbook
CAREER ASPIRATION ACTIVITIES
Our Primary students enjoyed career aspirations activities in class, as part of Careers Day. Thank you to the parents who came in to give talks and inspire our students.
Our Upper Primary C students enjoyed a careers presentation from parent, Mr Horton, about law, using your God given gifts to become a lawyer, types of lawyers,
and even had fun recreating a court case. Students had the opportunity to be a lawyer and plead a case, and to listen attentively and be the judge after hearing the witness account and the lawyers’ cases.
Mr Horton also shared cases where his faith determined his compassionate response.
MENTORING
Every Thursday during Homeroom, our Year 7 and Year 11 students come together for a dynamic peer mentoring session. Led by our Year 11 mentors, the program blends games, guided conversations, and meaningful discussions designed to build connection and confidence. This week, the group took things outside, enjoying team-building activities in the fresh air as they strengthened both skills and friendships.
100 DAYS OF PREP
During Term 3 our Prep students marked a special milestone100 days of school! To celebrate, they dressed up and spent the day exploring the theme of “100.” During morning devotions, they reflected on 100 things that made them happy. The day was filled with creative activities - making colourful 100-day posters, crafting “100 Days Smarter” crowns, and drawing imaginative pictures of what life might look like at age 100. In writing, they shared their thoughts on what they might be doing when they turn 100 years old!
YEAR 10 SWL
Our Year 10 students recently participated in a week of Structured Workplace Learning (SWL), gaining valuable, hands-on experience in real workplace settings. This opportunity allowed them to apply their classroom learning in practical environments, deepen their industry knowledge, and build essential skills for future career pathways. Our students undertook placements across a diverse range of industries and organisations.
Thank you to all the employers who generously offered their time and expertise to support our Year 10 students.
YOUTH ALIVE
During Term 2 Youth Alive visited our Secondary Chapel as part of their 2025 Hallways Schools Tour, joined by team members from York Street Church of Christ’s Converge Youth group. The team kicked off the session with games, followed by an engaging performance from Youth Pastor Damian Seddon (Encompass Church), who shared a message, performed a series of rap songs and spent time getting to know students during a lunchtime game of basketball.
It was wonderful to welcome back some familiar faces from our BalCC alumni among the York Street team –Patrick O’Leary (Class of 2013), Caitlyn Walker (Class of 2023), and Elouise Bartlett (Class of 2024). Since graduating, Caitlyn and Elouise have completed a sixmonth Discipleship Training School with Youth With A Mission (YWAM). Caitlyn is now pursuing studies in Primary and Early Childhood Teaching alongside a Certificate II in Christian Ministry, Patrick has since completed a Sport Science degree at Federation University and Elouise Bartlett is currently working and plans to undertake a double degree in midwifery and nursing next year.
To learn more about Youth Alive, please visit: https://ywam.org/
WORLDSKILLS ALICE MCINTOSH
Congratulations to Year 10 student, Alice, who recently represented her VET program in the WorldSkills VET Demonstration Competition held at the BGT Jobs & Training Expo at the Goods Shed.
Alice is currently undertaking a VET Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance and was selected to participate in recognition of her outstanding commitment, skill development, and dedication to her studies.
During the event, Alice demonstrated the real-world skills she has gained through her VET course, showcasing
her abilities in a hands-on, industry-aligned challenge run by her VET teacher. The competition was a fantastic opportunity for Alice to not only celebrate her learning journey but also to inspire over 600 students from across the region who attended the expo to explore local careers and training pathways.
Well done, Alice—we’re proud of your achievement!
To learn more about Highlands LLEN VET courses, please visit:https://www.highlandsllen.org/
EXPLORE YOUR FUTURE
InTerm 3 our Year 10 students attended the ‘Explore Your Future’ event at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Ballarat campus.
The day offered a hands-on experience with engaging activities led by current university staff and students.
The Year 10s explored a range of disciplines including Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Nursing, and Education, and took part in a guided campus tour.
The program concluded with a Careers Chat session, where students had the opportunity to ask questions about the ambassadors’ educational journeys, their motivations for choosing their degrees, and the pathways they are pursuing.
Early offer program
The ACU Guarantee program offers Year 12 students (Australian citizens or permanent residents) a place at ACU based on Year 11 results. It is specially designed to reflect achievements in a student’s whole life, not only their academic results.
For further information, please visit: www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admissionpathways/acu-guarantee
LEARNING THROUGH MOVEMENT
During Term 3 our Primary HPE classes were focussing on Workouts, Skipping, Dance and Gymnastics. The students all had a lot of fun learning new skills and building our muscles, agility, rhythm, fitness and flexibility. The Heel and Toe Polka and Zumba sessions have challenged and given students a lot of joy.
LUNCHTIME GAMES
Our Year 11 students are excited to be running a weekly Games Event for all secondary students and staff, held every Friday during Lunch 1 in the KHC. This is a fun opportunity to get active, connect with others, and build stronger community spirit through friendly competition and teamwork. Everyone in Years 7-12 is welcome to join in—come along, play, and enjoy some social time together!
Ahuge thank you to Nathan and the team from The Paella Guy for serving up a delicious lunch at our Term 3 BalCC Social Club event. Staff enjoyed a range of tasty paellas, followed by churros for dessert. With the sun shining, many took the opportunity to relax and enjoy a picnic-style lunch around the campus. A great way to bring everyone together!
Some of our Year 9 Micah 6:8 students who are working in Cafe 6:8 called past to meet Nathan and check out The Paella Guy van and how it operates.
The BalCC Social Club was established in 2022 with the aim of promoting staff wellbeing, strengthening relationships among colleagues, and creating a positive and supportive work environment.
LUNCH CLUBS
Twolunchtime activities are running this year as initiatives by our Learning Enhancement Centre – Crochet Club and Soccer Academy.
Crochet Club provides students with the opportunity to learn and develop crochet skills in a supportive environment. Beginning with the basics, students build their knowledge over the term and work towards creating their own pieces such as bracelets, toys, or continuing with personal projects they bring along.
The club is held on Mondays during Lunch 1 and is open to all Year 7 and 8 students. It caters for both beginners who are keen to learn a new skill, as well as more experienced students who wish to extend their abilities and share their craft with others. The club is lead by Education Support Staff member, Miss Tilly McMurray.
The Soccer Academy lunchtime program offers Year 7 students the chance to develop and refine their soccer skills in a supportive and engaging setting. The sessions are led by Education Support Staff member, Mr Moses Kalau, who has both played soccer at a professional level and been part of a Soccer Academy. The program is overseen by Caroline Morrison in collaboration with Mr Kalau, with each session designed to build technical skills, improve game awareness, and boost players’ confidence and performance.
SEBAS PRIMARY CHOIR
Our Primary Choir, under the direction of Performing Arts teacher, Mrs Sarah Rodwell, in Term 3 had the pleasure of welcoming the choir from Sebastopol Primary School, accompanied by their Music teacher, Miss Kellie Battiston. The visit was filled with joy and musical exchange, as both choirs performed for one another and later came together for a spontaneous and fun rendition of the song ‘Lollipop’. The students thoroughly enjoyed the collaboration and shared experience. It was a fantastic opportunity for both schools to connect, foster musical friendships, and strengthen ties within our local school community.
ALUMNI REUNIONS
Thank you to all alumni from the Classes of 2024, 2020, and 2015 who joined us for our 2025 Alumni Reunions in Term 3. It was a wonderful afternoon filled with warm conversations, laughter, and shared memories. Guests had the chance to reconnect over a relaxed afternoon tea, catch up on each other’s journeys, and enjoy a tour of the College grounds led by our Head of Secondary, Mr Scott McKenzie. The reunion offered a special opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate lifelong connections, and see how the College continues to evolve.
To stay connected with our Alumni, please feel free to Like, Follow and Share our Ballarat Christian College Alumni Facebook page.
STAYING IN TOUCH
Alumni are invited to share what they have been doing since leaving BalCC, by either sending in a write up and photos, or by completing our BalCC Alumni questionnaire, which is located on our website: https://www.balcc.vic.edu.au/college-life#alumni
The easy-to-follow questionnaire only takes 5-10 minutes to complete. Completed questionnaires, write ups, photos and requests to update contact details can be emailed to alumni@balcc.vic.edu.au
Ballarat Christian College Alumni Facebook page Alumni
DISCOVERY
In Term 3, our Prep students took part in an exciting Minibeast Incursion program featuring butterflies, stick insects, and a range of fascinating bugs. Sam from Minibeast Incursions delivered an engaging and educational session that supported the curriculum. The students were thrilled to enjoy a hands-on experience, learning how to safely handle, feed, and interact with the creatures.
BOOK WEEK
It was wonderful to see so many students and staff dress up for Book Week 2025. The Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) marked the 80th year of Book Week in 2025 with the theme ‘Book an Adventure’, which encouraged readers to explore new worlds and stories through literature.
MINISTERS NETWORK MORNING TEA
During Term 3 we had the pleasure of welcoming members of the Ballarat Ministers Network (BMN) to the College for a special morning tea. Our Principal Ken Nuridin, along with our College Captains, Gibson and Freya, greeted the visiting ministers and shared an insightful update on current developments, student life, and recent achievements at BalCC. It was a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections with local church leaders, foster community relationships, and provide a glimpse into the vibrant life of our College. We’re grateful for their continued support and interest in the spiritual and educational growth of our students.
Thank you to the Year 9 Micah 6:8 students who helped make hot drinks and slices for the ministers to enjoy and to Year 9 teacher, Mrs Sarah Inglis for coordinating the food and drink service.
BMN is a gathering of Ministers, Pastors, Reverends and Priests from churches in and around the Ballarat area, who meet twice a month to connect, network and pray with each other.
PHOTO DAY
Ahuge thank you to everyone who participated in our 2025 Photo Day! To mark our 40th Anniversary, we captured a special moment on the oval with staff and students coming together to form the number 40. What a fantastic way to celebrate this milestone.
RUNNING CLUB
Looking to stay active, meet new people and enjoy some fresh air? Our Secondary Running Club is held every Tuesday at Lunch 1. The focus is on building fitness, community and fun in a supportive and social atmosphere. Whether you’re a keen runner or just want to jog and chat with friends, everyone is welcome to join in.
COMMUNITY VISITORS
UpperPrimary have been exploring the theme of Community throughout their subjects in Term 3. Through rich discussions and real-world connections, students are learning that strong, thriving communities are built when citizens actively fulfil their civic duties.
To enrich their learning further, Upper Primary B have had weekly visits during Term 3 from community members – starting with Rhett Murphy, Laboratory Manager at Dorevitch Pathology, followed by Sally Tuck, from the Ballarat Toy Library, the Country Fire Authority and a special visit from the Mayor of the City of Ballarat, Tracey Hargreaves. The students were delighted that the visitors were able to present their weekly spelling test and posed inquisitive questions during question time. The community connections program continued weekly until the end of Term 3, with many more community members making surprise visits.
CSA SECONDARY LEADERSHIP
During Term 3 our College Captains, Gibson Paxman and Freya Manton, along with Year 11 Senate Representatives, Tas Goddard and Alex Lopez went to St Andrews Christian College for a CSA Student Leadership Gathering for senior students. The theme for the day was “Leading Like Jesus in This Cultural Moment.” There were guest presenters, including CSA Executive Officer VIC/TAS Jennifer Trodden, and practical workshops and discussions amongst CSA schools student leaders. Also, present were representatives from St Andrews Christian College, Northside Christian College, Rivercrest Christian College, Hillcrest Christian College and Shepparton Christian College
“On Monday August 18 some students gathered at St Andrews Christian College for a CSA Leadership Gathering, along with four other schools from around Victoria to discuss what it means to be a future leader. The day began with a short prayer and introduction before interacting in various activities and seminars about faith focused leadership, answering questions such as how to be a leader in the image of God as well as connecting with other like-minded peers to build new friendships. In the seminars both speakers Mark Ryan and Erica Jones discussed topics like “The legacy of a leader and Who are we becoming,” also what it means to be, do, see, and listen imagine create.”
Tas Goddard Year 11
HPE DANCE
DuringTerm 3, our Year 7 students brought energy, creativity, and collaboration to their Health and Physical Education line dance assessment. In small groups of 3–5, they choreographed and performed twominute routines featuring classic line dance steps such as the grapevine, pivot, and steptouch—all timed to music with impressive coordination. Students were assessed on both their group performances and how effectively they used their class planning time.
Inspired by Matthew 23:11–12, which states, ‘The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted,’ this assessment was part of a four-week class goal; to
develop teamwork skills by learning how to collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and support peers within a group setting. Throughout the lessons leading up to the performance, students embraced this goal by working together on choreography, encouraging one another during rehearsals, and using their time wisely.
It was also a beautiful opportunity to reflect Christ’s example—working with patience, speaking kindly, and putting others first. As Philippians 2:4 reminds us, ‘Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.’ After the dances, each student completed a personal reflection where they considered their growth in dance skills, teamwork, and character.
URBAN CAMP
Our Upper Primary students enjoyed an exciting three-day adventure at the Urban Camp in Parkville during Term 3. On their journey to camp, they made a stop at Scienceworks, setting the tone for an engaging and educational experience in Melbourne.
During their stay, students visited several key landmarks including Parliament House, Melbourne Museum, the Melbourne Zoo, Queen Victoria Market, and the Shrine of Remembrance. These diverse and enriching excursions supported their classroom learning across subjects such as Science, Humanities, and HASS, bringing real-world context to their studies.
80S DRESS UP DAY
During Term 3, we continued the celebration of our 40th Anniversary with a vibrant and nostalgic 80s Dress Up Day for both students and staff. The College was transformed into a colourful throwback, filled with leg warmers, neon colours, big hair, and classic 80s style. It was wonderful to see our College community embrace the spirit of the decade with so much enthusiasm and creativity. This fun and memorable day was a fantastic way to honour our College’s long history.
CUPCAKES
As part of our BalCC Day and 80s Dress Up Day, we also treated all students and staff to cupcakes in celebration of our 40th Anniversary. The sweet surprise added an extra layer of joy to an already festive day, bringing smiles to faces across the College. It was a small but meaningful way to thank our current College community for being part of our journey and to continue marking this important milestone with a sense of fun and togetherness.
BALCC DAY ASSEMBLY
In Term 3 our annual BalCC Day whole College Assembly was led by our Head of Teaching & Learning, Mrs Julie Gall, and featured a series of guest speakers who reflected on their memories and association with BalCC. Principal Ken Nuridin addressed the College community, along with two of our BalCC alumni and current parents, Mrs Naomi Zeitzen and Mrs Amy Lewis. We also welcomed Mr James Leviston, a past parent, former Board member, and ongoing supporter of the College.
The BalCC Day Assembly finished with a prayer by our College Captains before each student and guest received a fridge magnet with a QR Code to our ‘BalCC Yesterday Until Today’, digital flipbook that takes readers on the journey of BalCC from commencement in 1985 until today: https://issuu.com/ballaratcc/docs/balcc_-_ yesterday_until_today
BalCC Day, first held in 2024, was created to help our staff, students, and BalCC community gain a deeper understanding of our journey— celebrating our history, recognising our present, and looking ahead to our future.
GAMES & HOT CHOC
During Term 3 the Year 12 VCE VM class ran an indoor games and hangout room available for students in Years 7-9. The activity was chosen so students could have a warm place to socialise and play during lunch breaks. It provided a safe and fun space to hang out with friends. Free hot chocolates were available, as well as a variety of board games and video games.
SLIME
Our Middle Primary students worked online with Brentwood Park Primary School in two Science sessions run by Ecolinc online. The students created slime and tried to work out if it was a solid or a liquid before creating a hypothesis and observing their findings. Students also worked with bath bombs and water and made their observations on states of matter.
QUESTIONS IN SCIENCE
During Term 3, our Year 8 and 9 students took part in the ‘Questions in Science’ program at Ballarat Tech School. The students learnt to transform “why” questions into “how” questions, honed their scientific skills to deconstruct a visual experience, discovered how colour is composed, processed, and perceived. Applying this knowledge, the students created their own visual illusion to take home and share.
Students left with an understanding of how questions arise from everyday experiences, how they can be framed and investigated, that experiments don’t have to be daunting, and that every answer is the start of a new question.
To learn more about Ballarat Tech School, please visit https://ballarattechschool.vic.edu.au/
‘Discover today, Design tomorrow’
SLEEPOVER
Whata night! Our Lower Primary Sleepover was full of laughs, energy, and adventure. Students bounced their hearts out at Xtreme Bounce, tested their senses with a fruit and veggie guessing game, and battled it out in dodgeball. After filling up on pizza and jelly (yum!), everyone snuggled in to watch a movie in the gym. Eventually…after lots of chatter… everyone finally drifted off to sleep. The morning kicked off with breakfast at school and plenty of happy (but tired!) faces. What a fantastic memory for our students!
M1-M2 INSTALLATION
The College’s latest building project is nearing completion. We expect to accept handover from the builders (Marathon Modular) during the September school holidays.
The building houses two classrooms (opening into one large space when required), three break-out (rehearsal) rooms, a staff office, and storeroom, alongside an open East-facing decking area. Whilst initially the building will accommodate Year 11 and 12 classes, it has been designed and constructed to provide for Music and Performance Arts in the following years, as the College’s Master Plan is outworked.
Higher ceilings, additional acoustic treatments, and lots of light are features of this construction; the greatly reduced time on site (about 5 weeks in total) is also a major benefit. College operations were only affected for the first week or so as the footings were prepared, and modules craned into place.
We are now praying that the current rains will abate so that the external painting and landscaping can be completed without interruptions.
The College Master Plan is on display in the Administration Foyer for parents/carers who wish to view the plans. The Administration Office is open from 8:30am-4:30pm Monday-Friday.
Our latest building project began on a chilly Ballarat morning, but by day’s end, a beautiful rainbow appeared - an encouraging reminder of God’s promises over our College. Throughout the project, our Café 6:8 students have been faithfully serving the Marathon Modular team with warm refreshments, delivered with support from our BalCC Maintenance team. A big thank you and well done to Café 6:8!
WATOTO CHILDREN’S CHOIR
Atthe end of Term 3, the College was privileged to host two inspiring performances by the Watoto Children’s Choir as part of their global ‘Better Days’ tour. The first performance, held during the day, was attended by students and staff, while the evening concert welcomed members of the wider Ballarat community. Both events concluded with a special moment as BalCC students sang a heartfelt blessing over the choir. The evening performance, attended by over 450 guests, was a powerful and moving experience. Through song, dance, and the sharing of personal stories, the choir took the audience on an emotional journey of restoration, resilience, and hope. The choir reminded all that no
matter what they might be going through, or how dark the world may seem at times, there is always hope and better days ahead.
Every child in the choir has a unique and moving story. Many have lost one or both parents at a young age or were abandoned as babies - left at bus stops, churches, hospitals, and even in pit latrines. Each child was rescued by Watoto, where they found not only food, shelter, and education but also a loving family and renewed hope for the future.
To learn more about Watoto Children’s Choir and the work of Watoto, please visit: https://www.watoto.com/
ANGLESEA
DuringTerm 3, our Middle Primary students had an exciting and memorable three-day adventure at Camp Wilkin in Anglesea. Throughout their stay, students took part in a wide variety of engaging activities that encouraged teamwork, resilience, and fun. They spent time exploring the beach, played outdoor games, tested their aim in archery, challenged themselves on the rock-climbing wall, experienced the thrill of the Flying Fox and took part in a full-filled trivia night. The camp was a fantastic experience that allowed students to build friendships, develop independence, and create lasting memories.
R U OK? DAY
Our College community came together to take part in R U OK? Day. Students from Café 6:8 baked and sold delicious cupcakes, while the Student Wellbeing Team hosted a variety of Homeroom and lunchtime activities for everyone to enjoy. The Year 9 Live4Life crew also played a key role, handing out icy poles and R U OK? Day wristbands to help raise awareness about mental health and encourage peer support.
R U OK? Day is an annual Australian mental health initiative held on the second Thursday of September, encouraging people to check in on friends, family, and colleagues to spark meaningful conversations that could prevent suicide.
For more information on R U OK? Day, please visit: https://www.ruok.org.au/
POLKA
Despitethe chilly weather in Term 3, our Prep and Year 12 buddies –with the enthusiastic support of some Year 11 students – brought warmth and energy to the College grounds by dancing the Heel Toe Polka together. Our Prep students have been learning the steps to this traditional dance during their PE lessons and today was a wonderful opportunity for them to showcase their skills. Sharing the experience with their Year 12 buddies not only added a sense of fun and connection but also highlighted the strength of our crossyear relationships.
RESPONSIBLE PET EDUCATION
In the last week of Term 3, our Prep students participated in a Responsible Pet Education incursion, delivered by a trained pet educator the program teaches children how to safely and respectfully interact with dogs.
The Preps learned important lessons about dog safety, including:
• When dogs should be left alone
• Behaviours to avoid around dogs
• How to recognise if a dog is happy, scared, or angry
• The correct way to approach and greet a dog
• What to do if approached by an unfamiliar or aggressive dog
It was a valuable and hands-on session that helped our students build confidence and awareness around animals.
