Northside Newsletter ~ 'The Vine' ~ Term 1, Issue 1, 2024

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Principal’s Message

It is my privilege to welcome you all to the 2024 school year at Northside Christian College. We especially welcome any new students and families joining our College community. I am praying we can continue to work towards achieving our Mission to ‘transform lives through Christ and the wonder of learning’ during the year ahead.

At Northside, we have an overarching theme every year that guides us as a College community in developing a deeper understanding of the character of God. The theme word is intended to draw us closer to God’s Word. I am grateful we can be in a school community with a shared desire to pursue Jesus. We desire to know Jesus and to become more like Him. The new year provides us with a refreshed opportunity to grow in our walk with Christ.

At the most recent Dedication Service, it gave me great pleasure to introduce the College’s theme for 2024. Our theme verse for the year comes from Psalm 100:3 (NIV). The psalmist encourages us:

“Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture.”

Our theme verse is a reminder that God is the one and only sovereign God. He created us. We are not self-created. We are made in the image of God. We are also made to know God and be guided by God and His Word. He is our shepherd.

Ephesians 2:10 also encourages us as a College community about His purpose for us. This verse says,

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.”

As a Christian school community, I am constantly encouraged and uplifted to know that we are in an environment where God is at the centre. His Word guides us in all that we do.

Our theme for the year is ‘Created’. May we be encouraged that God created us. Each person in our College community is created in God’s image and is of inherent worth and value for this reason. Each student is created, loved, and known by God.

Mr Michael Bond Principal

We look forward to supporting our students to engage in a broad range of activities and opportunities during the year ahead. I continue to pray we can flourish together as a Christian community.

Working together,

Michael Bond Principal

““His Word guides us in all that we do.”

2024 Term Dates:

Term 1: 29/01/2024 - Prep, Year 7, 10, 11 & 12

30/01/2024 - 27/03/2024

Term 2: 15/04/2024 - 26/06/2024

Term 3: 17/07/2024 - 19/09/2024

Term 4: 07/10/2024 - 06/12/2024

Diary Dates:

WEEK 5A:

• Monday 26th February:

Whole School Assembly via Zoom

Year 9 & 10 DAV Debating

• Tuesday 27th February:

Years 3 - 6 Swimming lessons

VM Work Related Skills

• Wednesday 28th February:

Swimming Squad 7:00am – 8:00am

Preps not at school – Home Visit Day

Years 7 & 8 Fortnightly Sport

• Thursday 29th February:

MAPSS 2024 Parent Information

• Friday 1st March:

Years 3 – 6 Swimming Carnival

Prep – Year 2 Chapel Year 9 & 10 Creative Practice Excursion

WEEK 6B:

• Monday 4th March:

Year 9 Morrisby Testing

• Tuesday 5th March:

Years 3 - 6 Swimming lessons

• Wednesday 6th March:

Swimming Squad 7:00am – 8:00am

Preps not at school – Last Home Visit Day

VCE Physics Excursion

Year 9 & 10 Fortnightly Sport

• Friday 8th March:

Swimming Squad 7:00am – 8:00am

Years 5 - 6 District Sport

Primary Chapel – Item presented by Year 5S

WEEK 7A:

• Monday 11th March:

Public Holiday – Labour Day

• Tuesday 12th March:

Swimming Squad Final Training 7:30am –8:30am

Years 3 - 6 last swimming lesson

Year 9 ManCave workshop

Primary Dream and Lead Conference

• Wednesday 13th – Friday 15th March:

Year 8 Camp

• Wednesday 13th March:

Preps first Wednesday at school

NAPLAN commences for Years 3, 5, 7 & 9

Years 7 & 8 Fortnightly Sport

Melbourne Secondary Youth Leadership Conference

• Thursday 14th March:

NAPLAN

CSEN Primary Swimming Championships

Year 10 MAPSS Program

• Friday 15th March:

NAPLAN

Years 5 - 6 District Sport

Primary Chapel – Item presented by Year 6L

CSEN Secondary Swimming Championships

Northside

2024

Parents are welcome to join our Whole School Assembly every fortnight on Monday mornings (Week A) from 8:40am. Please refer to the link provided in the Primary, Middle or Senior School weekly emails.

Congratulations Class of 2023

We are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Year 12 class of 2023. In December 2023, students gained access to their results for 2023. Some students achieved Study Scores above 40 in Business Management, Chemistry, Health and Human Development, General Mathematics, and VET Engineering. We continue to pray for the Year 12 graduates as they make preparations for their post-school pathways.

Christ at the Centre

At the end of last year, at our Celebration events, we thanked God for all the blessings we have received as a community during the year. At Northside, we have an overarching theme every year that guides us as a College community in developing a deeper understanding of the character of God. Last year, the College theme was ‘Goodness’. We reflected on how we are created in the image of God, and how God’s goodness can be amplified in our lives. Throughout the year, it was so special to observe our students flourish with their learning, wellbeing, knowledge of God’s character, and understanding of their purpose in life.

Dux of the Class

We are pleased to advise that our Dux for 2023 is Joshua Chitrathomas (pictured) who achieved an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 96.00. At the Secondary School Celebration Evening, Joshua was awarded the Ampol Best All Rounder Award. This prestigious award recognised Joshua’s outstanding commitment and effort in demonstrating the key characteristics of the Best All Rounder, including Academic, Attitude, Personal Conduct, Leadership, and Service. Joshua was also awarded the Year 12 STEM Motivation Award, sponsored by the Australian Defence Force (ADF), which recognised a student who demonstrates a high-level of motivation in the learning area of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Joshua was also the recipient of the Mathematical Methods Subject Award at Northside.

Well done Joshua Chitrathomas. Northside

Christian College DUX for the Class of 2023

Highest Study Score

Principal’s Award

At the Celebration Evening event, Andee Tham received the Northside Christian College Principal’s Award. This award acknowledges an outstanding commitment to improvement. This award provides an opportunity for the College to recognise a student who is aiming for academic excellence while striving towards developing an authentic Christian character. Andee is not just an outstanding student in the classroom but is someone who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improvement with her learning. Andee has not only excelled academically, but actively shares her faith and upholds College and Biblical values while interacting with staff, students, and the College community. We also congratulate Andee on receiving an outstanding ATAR of 93.1. Andee was also recipient of the College’s Chemistry Subject Award.

Congratulations to the 2023 Northside Christian College Principal’s Award recipient Andee Tham

Among the many positive results this year, one student achieved the highest Study Score, a testament to their exceptional knowledge and understanding of the curriculum. Year 11 student Marshel Karunaratne received a perfect Study Score of 50 for his studies in General Mathematics. We congratulate Marshel on his amazing study score in this subject. We also acknowledge Mrs Margaret Furlong, who was the General Mathematics teacher.

Embracing Educational Opportunities

Our Senior School students have valued the opportunity to pursue both the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and Vocational Major (VM) during 2023. These certificates have allowed our students to explore diverse academic interests in preparation for a diverse range of post-school pathways. We congratulate the VCE and VM students at the College on their achievements across a broad range of subjects.

We acknowledge the many students who completed Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses in 2023. The College is grateful to be part of the Northern Melbourne VET Cluster, which provides opportunities for students to complete VET courses during their Senior School years. VET studies have allows our students to work towards qualifications for all types of employment, and gain sector-specific skills to help them prepare for the workplace.

Thank you Parents and Staff

May we acknowledge and thank our parents and dedicated teaching and support staff for their work supporting our students throughout their learning journey. At Northside Christian College, our staff, parents, and students are committed to assisting each student to achieve their personal best. Furthermore, we acknowledge that we are preparing our students for a diverse range of pathways reflective of the passions, gifts, and talents God has blessed them with to serve others. Careers and pathway planning are an ongoing part of our Secondary School program at the College.

Please continue to pray for the class of 2023 as they prepare for a broad range of post-school pathways.

We congratulate all students from our Year 12 class of 2023 and wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Dedication Service

Primary School

1st Day of School

It has become a tradition at Northside for the incoming Preppies to take a picture with our very colourful 1st Day of School sign!

We want to warmly welcome all our new Preps!

We trust you will enjoy starting your school journey with us here at Northside!

Welcome to Prep

Prep Home Visits

The Prep teachers have been visiting each of the Preps at home on Wednesdays. During these visits we have enjoyed a variety of different activities that the Preps and their families planned for us including drawing, painting, board games and more. We have enjoyed building relationships with these new members of our school community and bonding with them as they adjust to school life. Thank you to all the Prep families for having us!

Ms Caitlyn Wood Primary Teacher

The Preps have been enjoying showing their homes to their teachers and painting together.

Students with our 1st day of School sign.

Year 6 Visit Darebin Creek

On Wednesday 14th February 2024, the Year 6 classes adventured to Darebin Creek, along McLeans Road, Bundoora.

Once we arrived, the two classes separated into two groups to engage in different activities. 6V began with the Aquatic Water Bug Inspection with Mr Peter from The Darebin Creek Management Committee, and 6L enjoyed the Terrestrial Plant and Bug investigation with Mr Danny, also from The Darebin Creek Management Committee.

The 6V class had some amazing discoveries. Mr Peter taught some fascinating facts and educated students on how to look after our waterways. We found that there were many sensitive water bugs in the creek, which meant that the water was quite healthy.

The 6V class swapped with 6L and moved on to the Terrestrial Plant and Bug Investigations. Students used the computers to identify the plants and bugs. We also used the tape measures to see the height of the plants. Mr Danny educated us on some astounding plant and bug facts.

Then the exciting trip was over. We had to go back to school.

We would like to thank Mr Peter and Mr Danny for showing us how to take care of the water systems around our school.

Students investigated water samples from Darebin Creek.

Gabriella, Year 6

Students listened to members from the Darebin Creek Management Committee and measured trees.

Secondary School Swimming Carnival

On Thursday 8th February, Northside’s Secondary students had a blast in the Swimming Carnival, held at Splash Aqua Park. We really appreciate Mrs Venegas, Mr Zammit and the Team for planning and executing the event. The day was made up of a series of competitive swimming races but also a more relaxing component where students could enjoy playing water polo, riding the water slides, and engaging in small water games. After totalling all the points, we are happy to announce the winners of our 2024 Swimming Carnival: the Courageous Conquerors!

The Year 12’s theme for this year was Pirates as they dressed up and brought some extra fun to the day in their costumes and decorations as it was their last Swimming Carnival. Overall, we praise God for giving us His protection and thank Him that the event went smoothly.

Marshel, Year 12

Middle School

Year 9 Coastal Challenge

We are thrilled to share a glimpse into the unforgettable experience your Year 9 students had at their recent camp in Anglesea! Packed with thrilling adventures and new challenges, this camp was truly one for the books.

Amidst the breathtaking coastal backdrop, our students embraced the great outdoors, pitching tents under the starry sky and immersing themselves in nature’s embrace. From the crashing waves to the serene paddling waters, Anglesea provided the perfect playground for exploration and discovery.

Surf’s up! Our budding surfers conquered the waves, learning to ride the tides with newfound confidence during exhilarating surfing lessons. But the excitement didn’t stop there! From mastering paddle boarding to perfecting their swing at the driving range, our students fearlessly tackled each activity, pushing themselves beyond their limits. In the spirit of camaraderie, laughter echoed through the campgrounds as students navigated mini-golf courses and shared memorable moments around the campsite. Together, they embraced the challenges, persevered through obstacles, and emerged stronger, with hearts full of laughter and cherished memories.

As educators, witnessing the growth and resilience of our students firsthand was truly inspiring. We are immensely proud of their courage and determination, as they stepped out of their comfort zones and embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and tenacity.

Thank you for entrusting us with this incredible journey. Here’s to the unforgettable memories made, friendships forged, and the invaluable lessons learned. Until the next adventure!

Mrs Anthea Claassens Secondary Teacher

Students enjoyed various activities on the Coastal Challenge, including surfing, paddleboarding and trampolining.

Year 7 Camp

2024 VCE Launch

Senior School

INSPiRE

About the INSPiRE Program at Northside Christian College

The INSPiRE Program at our college aligns with our mission of “Releasing potential to transform our world.” Focused on nurturing students’ God-given talents and high abilities, INSPiRE aims to contribute to societal transformation while aligning with divine purpose.

Inclusivity, Diversity, and Talent Development

At the core of INSPiRE lies a commitment to inclusivity and recognizing diverse talents. Each child is considered a unique gift from God, with the program primarily focusing on intellectual and creative development. We strive to identify, develop, and release potential beyond age, culture, gender, or academic achievement.

Identification and Protocols

Identification of highly able students involves standardised testing and characteristics checklists, utilising assessments from Academic Assessment Services (AAS) and Gifted Identification Tools. Teachers and parents play a pivotal role in recognizing gifted underachievers for a holistic identification approach.

INSPiRE Model: Specialist Interventions

• ILPs (Individual Learning Plans): Tailored for students in the top 3%, showing superior reasoning ability or identified through observation and checklists.

• Withdrawal Classes: Tailored for the top 10% in any subject or identified through observation and checklists.

• Inquiry Competitions, Leadership Development, Enrichment Opportunities: Open provisions based on interest, task commitment, teacher recommendation, and parental suggestion.

For students who were part of INSPiRE last year may not be selected this year, as the selection process is dynamic and responds to the specific needs of the student body annually. Their talents remain undiminished, and the INSPiRE program is committed to providing opportunities for every student to thrive. We eagerly anticipate the remarkable growth and achievements of all students on this transformative journey through the INSPiRE Program.

Mrs Anthea Field INSPiRE Talent Development Coordinator

Mrs Anthea Field INSPiRE Talent Development Coordinator

Gear Up for the 2024 Bebras Competition

Registration for the 2024 Bebras Year 3 - 12 competition is approaching. The Bebras Competition is a global platform designed to evaluate and celebrate computational thinking and logical reasoning skills.

Competition dates will be:

Round 1: Tuesday 23rd April

Round 2: Thursday 10th October

Bebras is a fun and engaging computational thinking challenge for students in Years 3 to 12. It is an international challenge that involves over 2.9 million students from 60 countries.

Coding skills are not required to complete the Bebras Challenge. Anticipate challenges that go beyond routine problem-solving. Bebras presents intricate puzzles and complex scenarios, providing an unparalleled opportunity to exhibit your analytical skills and cultivate an in-depth understanding of computational principles.

Indicate your interest by emailing afield@ncc.vic.edu.au or message Mrs Anthea Field via SEQTA by the 28th March 2024.

For free past competition problems, you can visit https://www.amt.edu.au/bebras-365

Below are two examples of puzzles students will try and solve. These are available for free from Bebras unplugged resources https://www.amt.edu.au/bebras-unplugged

Art

Art Club Competitions

In Art Club we will be doing some of the following Art Competitions

• Our Earth (own artwork to highlight the theme of biodiversity, earth, flora and fauna)

• Our Earth Postcard Design (both of these competitions are run by https://www.insectacollective.com/ from the UK. But it is an open competition)

• Hidden Wonders of the Deep (run by Science without Borders https://www.livingoceansfoundation.org/education/science-without-borderschallenge/)

The 3 Art Competitions are to be submitted to Ms Paterno by Friday 1st March, 2024

Ms Annie Paterno Art Teacher

Notices

Welcome New Staff

It is with great pleasure that we extend a warm welcome to our new staff members joining Northside Christian College this year. We are grateful for the experience, passion, and dedication each of these staff members bring to our learning community. We are praying that our new staff feel connected, supported, and loved in our College community and that they can flourish in their new roles.

Mrs Catherine Power Prep

Mrs Sally Leong Year 1

Miss Jessica MacDonald Year 2

Ms Caitie Smith Year 5

Mrs Kylie Drowley Library Teacher

Mrs Marissa Chui Secondary School Science / Work Studies

Mrs Jacinta Wang Mandarin / Music / Mathematics / Science

Mrs Joy Luong INSPiRE Mathematics

Mrs Jung In Kim Music

Mr Santhosh Samuel Secondary School Teacher

Mrs Tracy Xu Mandarin

Mrs Simone Anderson Reception

Mrs Hannah Fry Reception

Mrs Dorothy Kalogeropoulos Reception

Mrs Ayako Stacey Learning Support Assistant

Waste free lunch

Northside Christian College participates in Waste-Free Lunch Challenges every Thursday throughout the year. Although Thursdays is our official challenge day, we would love to see students have a waste free lunch every day.

On this day, we ask that your child’s lunch contain as few items as possible that must be thrown away. Ideally, your child’s lunch will only contain items that will be eaten, composted or recycled.

Reusable containers are a handy way to pack a waste-free lunch. They also make it easy to buy food and drink in bulk (instead of in single-servings) which can save money over time.

The Waste-Free Lunch Challenge is one of Northside’s sustainability education initiatives. By participating, students will have a better understanding of how we can act to reduce waste. Waste-free lunches also save money and promote healthy eating. At the end of each term, the class awarded with the most Waste Free lunches in total will receive a casual clothes day.

Enclosed you’ll find easy recipes that can help with inspiration (they even tell you how to recycle the packaging from the products you’ll need!), they are both nutritious and delicious!

If you have any questions, comments or concerns about the Waste-Free Lunch Challenge, please don’t hesitate to contact Ms Christie Vaughn.

Thank you for supporting your child’s participation in Northside Christian College’s Waste-Free Lunch Challenge.

Ms Christie Vaughn Upper Primary Coordinator

Parents and Friends

Parents and Friends invite parents to attend a meet and greet the Parents and Friends Team morning tea.

If you would like to find out more about Parents and Friends please consider attending.

“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25 -26

What a wonderful blessing it is to embark upon another year as a ‘PeaceWise School’. As we journey through this academic year, from our youngest Prep students to our seasoned Year 12s, we are all immersed in the rich tapestry of the PeaceWise curriculum.

At Northside, we hold steadfast to the belief that peacemaking is not merely a principle, but a profound reflection of the Gospel of peace. It is the eternal message that God has extended the hand of reconciliation to humanity through the unparalleled sacrifice of Jesus Christ—His life, His death, and His glorious resurrection.

In embracing this ethos, we acknowledge that each interaction, each conflict resolved with grace and empathy, is an opportunity to manifest the divine love and forgiveness bestowed upon us. May our actions and words, guided by this Christian lens, serve as a beacon of warmth, compassion, and professionalism within our school community and beyond.

Colossians 1:19-20 summarises it this way: Jesus’ sacrificial death was God’s strategy to reconcile and restore all people back to him. We are now able to be friends with God – to be at peace with him by receiving God’s forgiveness, through Jesus, for our sinful nature. We in turn demonstrate the impact of Jesus’ act of restoration by being people who readily give and receive forgiveness to and from others, and so live out Jesus’ example and peacemaking teachings in our everyday lives.

Through this Bible based curriculum, students will learn the principles and skills of biblical peacemaking, based on a four-part framework of:

GOD (put God first) – 1 Corinthians 10:31

ME (own my part) – Matthew 7:5

YOU (talk it over) – Galatians 1:6

US (make it right) – Ephesians 4:32

We look forward to unpacking more of Biblical peacemaking in our community as the year continues on.

Ms Christie Vaughn PeaceWise Coordinator

SPECIAL REPORT: The Wellbeing Barometer 2024

The Wellbeing Barometer survey has proven to be an invaluable tool for schools, providing insights into the state of youth mental health and wellbeing. Whilst last year’s results focussed the spotlight on areas of concern, there were also many highlights that demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of students and emphasised the necessity of prevention strategies.

Participating in this year’s survey, will assist in identifying areas of strength and concern, as well as pinpointing opportunities for early intervention. Previously gathered information has helped support families as they navigate difficult conversations that enable understanding and foster connections to build relationships.

This survey is part of an ongoing, longitudinal study, with the results being instrumental in tailoring support for students and their families. Participation is strongly encouraged, as it provides a comprehensive view of students’ experiences, challenges, and achievements over the past year. Its aim is to capture a comprehensive picture of young people’s lives, allowing for a tailored approach to enhance mental and emotional wellbeing.

We encourage you to take a few moments to complete a survey for each of your children. This will help us determine the nature and extent of your concerns and how best to support families in the months ahead. Responses remain anonymous and will only be reported on an aggregated basis. You are asked to base your responses on observations made in the last 12 months.

Acquiring the skills for future independence, taking healthy risks, and giving young people the opportunity to emancipate from parents, are key developmental tasks that are essential if we are to stave off the impact of mental illness in the future. Please reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you or your child, please reach out to the school or seek professional medical advice.

Here is the link to your special report https://ncc.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-wellbeing-barometer-2024-au

Wellbeing Team

Heather Cootee Head of Student Wellbeing hcootee@ncc.vic.edu.au

Jared Stocks Chaplain jstocks@ncc.vic.edu.au

Chelsea Weeks Student Wellbeing cweeks@ncc.vic.edu.au

Finance Team

If you need to contact our Finance Team you will likely speak to one our the following staff:

Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF)

Information for Parents and Concession Card Holders

The Camps, Sports, and Excursions Fund (CSEF) funding is made available by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of camps, sports, and excursions, which are included in fees that are billed to your school account.

If you hold a valid means-tested concession card, (e.g. Centrelink Health Care Card), or you are a temporary foster parent, you may be eligible for CSEF funding.

The annual CSEF amount per student is:

1. $125 for Primary School students

2. $225 for Secondary School students

For more information about the CSEF, and to download the CSEF application form, visit Camps, Sports, and Excursions Fund at: https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/camps-sports-and-excursions-fund/guidance/submitting-application.

An application form may also be obtained from the College Finance Office. Application forms must be lodged with the College by the 1st March 2024

Please note that the College is required to sight any relevant concession cards that you may hold to support eligibility for the CSEF. Therefore, please either bring your concession card with you, if you are dropping off your application at the College Finance Office or email a copy of your concession card to the Finance Team with your application to accounts@ncc.vic.edu.au.

Upon approval by the Victorian Government, the allowance will be paid to the College, which will then be applied to your school account.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Finance Team by email accounts@ncc.vic.edu.au, or by telephone at 9467 2499 Click here for the CSEF Application Form. Northside Finance Team

Leigh Adcock Business Manager

Bee Yew Assistant School Burser

Suni Harun Accounts Office

Enrolments

Prep 2025 applications

Applications for Prep 2025 close on Friday, 23rd February 2024. All Northside families that have a child due to commence Prep in 2025 must apply by the closing date to secure a place for the child next year. Children born between 1st January 2019 and 30th April 2020 are eligible to commence Prep in 2025. Please note that the College cannot guarantee places for sibling of existing students where applications are received after the closing date.

Applications are received online via the College website.

VISA Changes

If your child has been granted a new visa, permanent residency or obtained Australian citizenship since 1st January 2023, please provide a copy of the grant notification to our Enrolments team via email, or leave a copy with our College Reception.

College Community Night

College Tours

Did you know we hold College Tours? The College Tours are a fantastic way to experience the community at Northside Christian College and to also get a better sense as to whether Northside is the right fit for your family.

If you have a friend or family member that is interested in checking out Northside, please let them know to check for tours on the Northside Enrolments page on our website.

https://ncc.vic.edu.au/book-a-tour

The College is hosting an upcoming Community Night from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. The date will be communicated with families soon. Northside families are invited to come along to the College Community Night to connect with the Northside community. Families can bring a picnic basket or purchase something from one of the food trucks. There will also be face-painting and music.

This will not be an Open Evening, but will be the chance to catch-up with other families and meet new families.

Some students may be asked to assist at the College Community Night. Permission forms will be shared shortly via Conset2Go.

Are you leaving Northside?

Families that are not returning to Northside in 2024 must advise the College as soon as possible. Families who withdraw late may be required to pay a terms fee in lieu of notice.

Withdrawal forms are available at the College Reception, from the Enrolments team or by completing the online form

Alumni

Join the Northside Alumni by completing the online form to be notified of upcoming events.

Administration

Update your details

Have you recently....

• Moved house?

• Got a new phone number?

• Need to change you child’s emergency contact ....

You can update your details in Consent2Go or email the office to update your details ncc@ncc.vic.edu.au.

Follow Northside on Facebook and/or

Instagram

If you’re on Instagram or Facebook, please follow the Northside Christian College pages.

Instagram

Facebook

Absences

Please remember to email any absences to:

attendance@ncc.vic.edu.au

If you’re picking up your student early or dropping them off late, please remember to email attendance@ncc.vic.edu.au or fill in one of our green Student Absence forms at Reception.

Uniforms

New Uniforms to Buy

College families can purchase new uniforms from Academy Uniforms.

Second Hand Uniforms to Buy and Sell

College families have the opportunity to sell their second hand uniforms directly to other families via the Facebook group; NCC Second Hand Uniforms and Textbooks Buy, Swap Sell.

Please ensure you read the group rules; only Northside uniforms and textbooks may be sold in this group.

All sales and purchases are directly between families, not with Northside.

Policies

Procedures for the Bushfire Season

Northside Christian College has developed and regularly reviews the College’s Bushfire Preparedness Policy (Policy No. 18). Bushfire preparedness is not just a concern for schools listed on the Bushfire At−Risk Register. Student transport to and from school, participation in offsite activities (including camps, excursions and sporting activities) and the risk of localised fire events demonstrate the importance of bushfire preparedness for all schools.

The College’s Bushfire Preparedness Policy documents procedures designed to ensure that preventative strategies are implemented and to ensure that students and staff are prepared to respond in the event of a bushfire. This response may include pre-emptive planned closures of the College, evacuation or what to do in the event that evacuation is unsafe. The preparation of this plan has been developed in accordance with the Northside Christian College Emergency Management and Critical Incident Plan.

We wish to advise that the College may cancel camps or excursions, or may even be required to close the school when Emergency Services declare a Code Red (Catastrophic) fire danger day, or when the risk of bush fire is heightened. Parents will be advised (by SMS and other means) if the College is to close, or if camps or excursions are to be cancelled, with as much forward notice as may be possible.

It is important that all families, particularly those in bush fire prone or high risk areas, have a family fire safety plan. The plan should include information about alternative care arrangements for children in the event that the College is required to close. Families are encouraged to practise the plan and be familiar with procedures to be followed in the case of a bush fire or house fire.

Northside Christian College is not listed on the Department of Education’s Bushfire At-Risk Register (BARR).

For up-to-date information on this year’s fire season please refer to:

• VicEmergency: https://emergency.vic.gov.au

• VicEmergency Hotline: 1800 226 226

• CFA (Country Fire Authority): https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/

• Fire Rescue Victoria: https://www.frv.vic.gov.au

• CFA Facebook: facebook.com/cfavic

• CFA Twitter: twitter.com/CFA_Updates

• ABC local radio, Sky News and other emergency broadcasters

Anaphylaxis Management Policy

The Committee of Management at Northside Christian College have endorsed the College’s Anaphylaxis Management Policy.

Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction and is potentially life threatening. Food allergies and anaphylaxis have increased over the last decade and it is not uncommon for schools to have many children who may be anaphylactic. The most common allergens in school aged children are peanuts, eggs, tree nuts (e.g. cashews), cow’s milk, fish and shellfish, wheat, soy, sesame, latex, certain insect stings and medication.

Most food allergic reactions do not involve anaphylaxis, and the likelihood of a severe allergic reaction from casual exposure when food is not ingested (e.g. from touch or exposure to odours) is very low. However, severe reactions may occur unpredictably, thus any allergic reaction to foods should be taken seriously and treated as a potential medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.

The purpose of the College’s Anaphylaxis Management Policy is to achieve the following:

• To provide, as far as practicable, a safe and supportive environment in which students at risk of anaphylaxis can participate equally in all aspects of the student’s schooling. This extends to all College learning environments (onsite and off-site).

• To raise awareness about anaphylaxis and the College’s Anaphylaxis Management Policy in the College community.

• To engage with parents/carers of students at risk of anaphylaxis in assessing risks, developing risk minimisation strategies and management strategies for the student.

• To ensure that each staff member has adequate knowledge about allergies, anaphylaxis and the College’s policy and procedures in responding to an anaphylactic reaction.

• To remain compliant with Ministerial Order 706: Anaphylaxis Management in Victorian Schools and the guidelines on anaphylaxis management.

As we commence a new school year, it is timely that we all remind ourselves to be mindful not to inadvertently expose our students to potential triggers. Your continued support in ensuring that our children stay safe is appreciated. Several simple steps for families who have students with food allergies include:

• Remind students to always eat food that has been packed from home.

• Encourage students to not accept food from peers.

• Provide food that does not contain allergens.

• Make sure children know if they have an allergy as well as the adults who are caring for them. This includes completing an Action Plan. Copies are available from the College Office.

More strategies and information is available from www.allergy.org.au or www.allergyfacts.org.au.

A copy of the College’s Anaphylaxis Management Policy is available in the policy section on the College website at www.ncc.vic.edu.au

Child Safety

Northside Christian College is committed to implementing the new Child Safe Standards, which came into effect on the 1st July 2022 after an amendment to the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (Vic) was passed by the Victorian Parliament in June 2021. During 2022, the College developed an awareness of Ministerial Order No. 1359. This Order came into operation on the 1st July 2022. The College has reviewed a wide range of policies and procedures in order to ensure compliance with the new Ministerial Order. These policies are reviewed regularly to ensure continuous improvement.

Below are some details about resources to assist the College in maintaining a child safe culture.

Child Safety Policy

The Northside Christian College Committee of Management has approved the Child Safety Policy, Code of Conduct and Procedures (Policy No. 1). The Child Safety Policy is a comprehensive and overarching document that provides an overview of the key elements of Northside Christian College’s approach to creating a child safe organisation. The College has updated this document to align with the new Child Safe Standards and Ministerial Order No. 1359. This document is available at the College Reception Office and on the College website. The College is grateful for the opportunity to receive feedback from the College community on this policy.

Child Safety Code of Conduct

Staff, directors, volunteers, and contractors at the College are required to abide by the College’s Child Safety Code of Conduct. The purpose of this Code is to promote child safety within all College environments. This document is available at the College Reception Office and on the College website.

Procedures For Responding To And Reporting Allegations Of Suspected Child Abuse

Northside Christian College has a clear procedure for responding to allegations of suspected child abuse in accordance with Ministerial Order No. 1359 and other legal obligations. Please use the template document of the Child Safety webpage on the College website to document any incident, disclosure or suspicion that a child has been, or is at risk of being abused.

Child Safe Strategy Document

Northside Christian College has strengthened the safety of our operations as a result of the implementation of the Child Safe Standards at the College. A key objective for Northside Christian College is to embed child safety practices into our culture. The work that is involved in building a child safe organisation is never completed. It is a dynamic, multifaceted and ongoing developmental process of learning, monitoring and reviewing. Maintaining a child safe organisation is not a one-off task. It must become part of our College’s ongoing processes and be embedded into our culture. Your feedback and support with developing a child safe culture is greatly valued.

A copy of the College’s updated Child Safe Strategy Document is available on the College website on the Child Safety page.

Child Safety Roles and Responsibilities

Child Safety Officer

Northside Christian College has appointed Ms Heather Cootee (Head of Student Wellbeing) as the College’s Child Safety Officer. The primary purpose of the position is to manage the implementation of the Child Safety Policy (Policy No. 1), especially in relation to training and educating staff and students and to manage any incidents of reporting to ensure Northside Christian College is compliant with all legislation around such reporting.

The Child Safety Officer is a contact person for children, young people, parents, employees and volunteers to seek advice and support regarding the safety and wellbeing of children and young people within our College. The role requires the officer to take action when child protection concerns are reported, including the provision of support to those within the community who have been affected, with an understanding and respect for cultural diversity

Child Protection Workers

The College’s Child Protection Workers are Ms Heather Cootee, Head of Student Wellbeing and Mr Jared Stocks, College Chaplain. The Child Protection Workers have the specific responsibility for responding to any complaints made by staff, volunteers, parents or students in relation to Child Safety. The Child Protection Workers at Northside Christian College will always work concurrently with the Principal and other College leaders.

Committee of Management

The Committee of Management of Northside Christian College has ultimate responsibility for the detection and prevention of child abuse and is responsible for ensuring that appropriate and effective internal control systems are in place. The Committee of Management is also responsible for ensuring that appropriate policies and procedures and a Child Safety Code of Conduct are in place.

Principal

The Principal is responsible for:

• Dealing with and investigating reports of child abuse;

• Ensuring that all staff, contractors, and volunteers are aware of relevant laws, College policies and procedures, and the College’s Child Safety Code of Conduct;

• Ensuring that all adults within the Northside Christian College community are aware of their obligation to report suspected sexual abuse of a child in accordance with these policies and procedures;

• Ensuring that all staff, contractors and volunteers are aware of their obligation to observe the Code of Conduct (particularly as it relates to child safety);

• Providing support for staff, contractors and volunteers in undertaking their child protection responsibilities.

Directors of Learning

All Directors of Learning must ensure that they:

• Promote child safety at all times;

• Assess the risk of child abuse within their area of control and eradicate / minimise any risk to the extent possible;

• Educate employees about the prevention and detection of child abuse; and

• Facilitate the reporting of any inappropriate behaviour or suspected abusive activity.

Staff / Volunteers / Contractors

All staff / volunteers / contractors share in the responsibility for the prevention and detection of child abuse, and must:

• Familiarise themselves with the relevant laws, the Code of Conduct, Northside Christian College’s policy and procedures in relation to child protection, and comply with all requirements;

• Report any reasonable belief that a child’s safety is at risk to the relevant authorities (such as the Police and / or the State- based child protection service) and fulfill their obligations as mandatory reporters;

• Report any suspicion that a child’s safety may be at risk to their supervisor (or, if their supervisor is involved in the suspicion, to a responsible person at the College); and

• Provide an environment that is supportive of all childrens’ emotional and physical safety.

Mrs Heather Cootee

Mr Jared Stocks