The 2024 academic year has begun smoothly, and it has been wonderful to welcome families and students back to the College. It is always special to see new families in our community welcomed and embraced by both students and parents. Last week our secondary students joined together for our annual Leadership Induction Service. During this special service our inaugural Genesis Christian College Alumni Award was presented to Breanna Solomon (nee Redsell) from the Class of 2012.
The Alumni Award is a new award within the College which will become an annual tradition at Genesis. The award seeks to celebrate and acknowledge our past students and their service to their profession and to the wider community. Breanna also represents the core values of Genesis Christian College and Christ-like character.
Jesus told his disciples, “You are the salt of the earth”. A few small grains that can change the taste of a meal. At Genesis, our vision is to see graduates who desire to be distinctive and transformational within their generation, salt on earth! Breanna shared some words of encouragement to our Secondary students during the Leadership Induction Service and we trust that Breanna’s example and story will be of great encouragement to our students.
Congratulations to Breanna Solomon on being our first Alumni Award recipient.
Paul Sterling, Principal
‘Jungle’ Jim Hunter raced for the Canadian Downhill Ski Team in the 1970’s. ‘Jungle’ Jim was an Olympic Medallist and is a National Skiing Legend. The nickname ‘Jungle’ came from his extreme and unorthodox training methods used for Downhill Skiing.
Currently he assists youth athletes all over the world to achieve their best results through Motivational Training, Lectures and Podcasts.
In 2022, ‘Jungle’ Jim began working with the Genesis Christian College Captains, Prefects and Leaders.
He has assisted them in achieving their goals through Servant Leadership. The feedback from the Genesis Student Leaders over the past two years has been full of praise and appreciation for 'Jungle' in regards the time and effort he has put into them to be the best they can be.
Here's some 2023 emails student Prefects and Captains sent to Jungle Jim.
Jungle Jim
From the GCC Middle School Captains
Hi Jungle Jim.
Since listening to you, I have learnt a lot and developed a better understanding of my leadership position. I have really enjoyed my role as Captain so far this year, and I am looking forward to our future events. Your advice has helped me a lot to become more of a servant leader as well as developing a team to promote many of the events we are organising.
Jungle Jim
From the GCC Service Prefects
Hi Jungle Jim.
As Service Prefects this year, we have created new school events during the year to raise money for various charities. The events allowed the Prefects to serve the school community as well as the wider community. We're really grateful for all the advice and knowledge you have shared with us, and we are so excited to implement it all throughout the rest of the year.
From a GCC Service Senior School Captain
Hi Jungle Jim.
First of all, thank you so much for all your helpful lessons on leadership. We all appreciate the time and effort you have put into our students leaders at Genesis Christian College. This term, as captains have been focusing on cultivating a theme of Impact, in our cohort, and have been discussing what kinds of an impact we can have on each other and on the community around us.
We have launched an initiative called 'Countdown", where year twelve students engage in one activity with each grade, helping to connect with them and encourage them in their school journey. Your advice has made our project a success and we look forward to hearing more helpful strategies from you.
At the age of 10 Jim Hunter suffered a traumatic head injury and had to learn how to live life again. Six and a half years later "Jungle" Jim Hunter took to the slopes in the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo Japan.
Along the way 831 people helped Jim become a Canadian legend and an inspiration to anyone that has crossed his path. The average person interacts with between 8 and 31 people everyday, join us in creating a nation of 831'ers helping those people and help you live your best life. Join Jim weekdays for a short burst of inspiration that will inspire you and help you truly live your best life.
Listen to his podcast here
Jungle JimAs a way of supporting our wider community at OSHC, the children have been busy over the past 6 months baking and selling sweet treats to raise money for the children of the New Life Orphanage in Myanmar.
The conversation amongst our Oshies has been centred around looking outward to those who need our help as well as appreciating and not taking for granted what we have. We have raised $619 so far with a goal of $1000 to raise this year & we appreciate so much the ongoing support of our Genesis OSHC community!
Recently, we acknowledged the DUX of our College as well as five of the nine students who achieved ATAR results above 95%. These young men and women have worked incredibly hard and diligently to achieve outstanding academic results and deserve to be congratulated for their efforts.
The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a number between 0.00 and 99.95 that indicates a student's position relative to all eligible students who completed Year 12 in Queensland. Congratulations to Simar Bhambra (DUX ATAR of 98.9).
Simar is pictured here with Tony Li, Ashley Cuff, Dane Kotze, Lucy Lou, and Zeph Hardie.
From the Library
Yr 11 Design
Our Year 11 Design class recently started making low fidelity protypes. The students used models to help gain a greater understanding of the product being designed and how this can be modified for different users
This task will eventually be modified to suit the needs of a 4 year old child. As this is the start of our 2 year course students are interacting with many different design process to help them become better designers.
Wayne van den Box Director of Senior Phase 10-12“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
This is of course a quote from the famous Dr Seuss book, I Can Read with My Eyes Shut! There have been many studies undertaken to provide evidence for what is actually quite obvious: Dr Seuss was right!
The Genesis Library team continue to promote this nugget of wisdom, working with primary teachers and parents to provide opportunities for students to read widely, to construct new knowledge, expand imaginations, build vocabulary, and to open up opportunities for readers to climb to new heights in their learning.
But how?
While all primary classes and students are encouraged each week to borrow books from the library, the motivation to read widely and effectively extends beyond the traditional borrowing of library books.
In Years 3 to 6 students have been enrolled in the Accelerated Reading Program. Here, each child undertakes a beginning of the year quiz which indicates a reading level matched their ability in terms of vocabulary, comprehension, and helping them to extend in these areas. When students read books from the library that are matched to their reading level (indicated on the spine of selected books) they are encouraged to complete online quizzes that generate statistics designed to motivate further reading engagement. Not only do students benefit from actively participating in the Accelerated Reader program, but the data can also benefit teachers and parents who are key stakeholders in helping improve student reading engagement and growth.
Accelerated Reader is just one example, but the bottom line remains. Dr Suess was right! Reading expands the mind, it opens new opportunities, but most of all, reading should be enjoyable. This is why we, the library team, continually seek to promote a love of reading, and the benefits that this brings.
Want to get started on an AR quiz right now? Click Welcome (renaissance-go.com)
Benjamin SwiftTeacher Librarian - Primary
Summer Holiday Work Experience
During the December/January period, the work experience initiative proved to be a highly enriching endeavour for our students. Embracing Grade 10, 11 and 12 cohorts, participants engaged in placements spanning diverse industries, including International Education, Carpentry, Electrical, Childcare, Construction, and Library Services.
This program offers students opportunities to pursue work experience during their school holidays throughout Years 10, 11, and 12, with encouragement for multiple placements. The Genesis Work Experience Program serves as a bridge to the real world, equipping students with essential employability skills and facilitating a smooth transition from educational settings to professional environments.
This semester, Future Pathways organized an exclusive Study Skills Session tailored for our Year 11 Students.
From mastering exam strategies to fostering a positive mindset, understanding individual learning styles, and effective time management, the session served as valuable preparation for the pivotal final two years of school.
In addition to insights from Jonathan Garrett (Year 11 Care and Conduct Leader), Elizabeth Hobman and Marieke Kleynhans (Learning Mentor) from the Future Pathways team presented, alongside James O’Kane (2024 Year 12 Academic Prefect).
James shared his personal journey through Year 11 and offered a wealth of tips and tricks that contributed to his success.
UPCOMING EVENTS
• Secondary Music Camp: Fri, 8 – Sun, 10 March
• Primary Music Camps: Fri, 22 Mar – Sun, 24 Mar
• Movie Tunes Tues, 26 Mar
2024 has kicked off in the Music department with all our Ensembles up and running. We have had many new musicians very excited to receive their instrument and have their first lessons as well as students returning to continue their music learning.
2024 Dance Camp
In Week 4 the Senior Dance Company, Intermediate Dance Company, Senior Show Choir and Intermediate Show Choir came together for a three-day camp at YMCA Warrawee. The teams worked hard and learnt new choreography and songs with guest artists as well as enjoyed games, a dress-up-trivia-night, buddy activities, swimming, painting and making new friends. During the camp, Emma Sunderland and Lisa Mason popped in to share an encouraging message from God’s word.
Drama Club
The three Genesis drama clubs have started rehearsals this term. This program allows students to develop acting skills, play drama games and prepare for College-based performance/s throughout the year. We are so blessed and thankful to have the following wonderful teachers sowing their skills and passion into the Genesis Drama Clubs this year:
Stephanie McLean – Secondary Drama Club
Introducing our new teacher for the Secondary Drama Club – Stephanie McLean! Steph has a Diploma of Musical Theatre and a Bachelor of Acting and Performance and is an experienced performer and teacher. Steph feels privileged to have the opportunity to come alongside the next generation of performers! She endeavours to foster a class culture which allows students to grow in ability, artistry, musicality, confidence and creative expression. Steph shares her gifts so generously with the classroom, offering wonderful knowledge and skills for the arts through her experience and quality training.
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Amara Wass – Year 5 & Drama Club
A Genesis Alumni, Amara is an active member of the Genesis Drama community. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Secondary Education and Fine Arts while getting hands-on experience in the classroom. Amara is a confident teacher of all ages as an early childhood educator and a school-aged tutor. Amara found her passion for drama in the classroom and hopes to share this joy with this Year's grade 5 and 6 Drama club.
Siena Hardie – Year 4 Drama Club
Another Genesis Alumni, Siena is an actor, director, writer, photographer, singer, visual artist, dreamer, believer and self-proclaimed over-achiever. Siena loves teaching small humans, and has a passion for seeing them grow in their confidence and artistry. She recalls how her own teachers inspired her to push herself and is grateful for the influence they had on her as a young performer. Helping others grow and being a part of their creative journey is one of her greatest joys, and Siena loves to create community through her teaching, directing and collaborations. She aims to empower and educate the next generation of young creatives through her artwork and leadership
Term 1 marks an exciting time of year here at Genesis as we welcome new families and reconnect with our existing Genesis community.
On the morning of Thursday 18 January as part of Launch24, we hosted our annual Parents Welcome Morning Tea Parents with a new student commencing at Genesis this year were invited to attend the event, providing an opportunity for families to connect each other and with our staffing team.
Next, we welcomed our Prep Parents on the first day of school at our Tim Tams and Tissues event. Parents gathered for some coffee and Tim Tams at the Park Coffee Shop to celebrate a big milestone for our smallest students.
Finally on Monday 29 January we welcomed the parents of our Year 7 cohort at the Year 7 Parent Information Evening. Prior to the evening’s formalities, our Year 7 students and their families shared in a BBQ dinner. This event has become a special tradition and a great way to kick start the passage through secondary school.
We love seeing the Genesis community come together at these gatherings. A big thank you to all those who attended and a special thanks to our P&F Volunteers, who served at all three events.
We’ve had a fantastic and busy start to Term 1 2024!
• Come along to GSA and see the friendly team for aquatics, tennis, fitness and multisport for your children . Visit our website for more information.
• Genesis Swim School held Macca’s® Mini Meet just before term started and had a fantastic afternoon at the pool with 25m swims, fun on the inflatables and other novelty races in the indoor and outdoor pools.
• Genesis Multisport had participation from 14 athletes at the State Aquathlon/Triathlon Championships held in Hervey Bay in mid-February. Two of our athletes secured qualification and will proudly represent Queensland at the National Championships in mid-March. Well done!
• 2024 Australian Open Water Championships and Ocean Swim Festival was held in late January in Western Australia. Genesis Aquatics participated with the open water swimmers attending.
• Starlight Super Swim happening in February at GSA – Get on board, sponsor a swimmer and share as much as you can! Our team is currently the third top fundraising team in Australia!
• GSA Multisport Holiday Program is on in the first week of the Easter Holidays – to register click here
• GSA Holiday Swim Intensives are on both weeks of the Easter Holidays! Email: gsa@genesis.qld.edu.au for more details and costs.
2024 Genesis Alumni Award Winner
On Thursday 15 February at our Secondary Leadership Commissioning Service, we announced the inaugural winner of the Genesis Alumni Award. The Award has been created to celebrate and acknowledge the excellent achievements and outstanding success of our past students.
The 2024 Genesis Alumni Award Winner is Breanna Solomon (nee Redsell).
Breanna has always had a heart for others and since graduating from Genesis in 2012, through both her professional career and her volunteer service, she has passionately supported the most vulnerable members of our community.
Breanna has completed a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Counselling) and is currently undertaking a Master of Education (Trauma-Aware Education). She’s built an accomplished career as a child and adolescent therapist and has excelled as a drug and alcohol counsellor, offering support to individuals from varied walks of life. Beyond her clinical practice, Breanna demonstrates a sincere commitment to furthering education and research, particularly regarding challenges faced by young mothers. She is currently engaged in a research project with the University of the Sunshine Coast, studying the impacts of teenage pregnancy.
Since 2016, Breanna has been extensively involved with A Brave Life- an organisation that equips and empowers vulnerable mothers facing a range of challenges including domestic violence, poverty, and homelessness. In her work with A Brave Life, Breanna has mentored and tutored young women aspiring to complete their education. Recently appointed as Chair Director of A Brave Life, Breanna continues to broaden her impact as the charity becomes state-wide. At the Leadership Commissioning Service, Breanna shared her career journey and the lessons she has learnt about leadership since finishing school, leaving our secondary students with some valuable insights.
Fuel for School
Fuel for School is back for 2024! Funded by Genesis P&F Association, Fuel for School offers a free breakfast of cereal and fruit for all Genesis students from Prep to Year 12. You can find Fuel for School outside Eden Eats from 7:45am8:15am Tues, Wed and Thurs weekly.
Year 4 Bibles
Recently, our Year 4 students enjoyed one of Primary school's rite of passages... receiving their very own Bible!
Each Bible was hand delivered by Mrs Nadler and our wonderful group of Praying Parents volunteers.
Mon, 26 Feb
Tues, 27 Feb, 18 Jan
Wed, 28 Feb
Thurs, 29 Feb
Fri , 1 March
Tues, 5 March
Thurs, 7 March
Fri, 8 March
Tues, 12 March
Wed, 13 March
Thurs, 14 March
Fri, 15 March
Mon, 18 March
Tues, 19 March
Wed, 20 March
Thurs, 21 March
Fri, 22 March
Mon, 25 March
Tues, 26 March
Year 10 camp
Minokamo Sister School Visit
Year 10 Camp
Year 11 Senior Gala Day
Minokamo Sister School Visit
Year 10 Camp
Minokamo Sister School Visit
Year 6 Lifeworks Parent Session
Wed, 28 March
Friday, 1 April
Year 9 “The Rite Journey” departure
Years 3-12 Cross Country
Prep 2026 and Beyond Discovery Tour
Family Friday – Easter Special
Secondary Music Camp
P&F AGM
Yrs 3, 5, 7 & 9 NAPLAN
Prep Parent Literacy Morning
Yrs 3, 5, 7 & 9 NAPLAN
Yrs 3, 5, 7 & 9 NAPLAN
Year 12 Unit 3 Exam Block
Yrs 3, 5, 7 & 9 NAPLAN
Year 12 Unit 3 Exam Block
Years 7-9 Easter Chapel
Year 12 Unit 3 Exam Block
Year 12 Unit 3 Exam Block
Year 2 BBQ & Bush Dance
Year 12 Unit 3 Exam Block
Primary Music Camp
Primary NISSA Gala Day
Primary Parent/Teacher Interviews
Year 10-12 Easter Chapel
Movie Tunes Concert
Genesis CC AGM
Primary Parent / Teacher Interviews
Good Friday
School holidays commence