2025 TERM 3
\ Festival of Arts
\ Year 6 Coin Operated Museum
\ Book Week
\ Science Week
\ Much more...
“ Principal’s Message
Dear College Families,
Creativity is not simply an academic exercise, but an act of worship!
As we come to the close of another rich and rewarding term, it has been a joy to see our students continue engaging with our theme for the year, Connection. We have watched them grow in their learning, faith, and friendships, discovering the importance of being connected to God, to one another, and to the world around them. We do trust your family is being enriched through our College theme this year!
One of the highlights of the term was without doubt Book Week, which brought such creativity and joy to our College community. The ever-popular Book Week Dress Up Parade filled the College with colour, laughter, and a celebration of the power of stories to inspire and connect us.
Another wonderful milestone this term was our inaugural Festival of Arts – Connected to the Son. This was more than just a showcase of student creativity, it was a celebration of the unique gifts God has placed within each young person. From music and drama to visual arts and performance, we witnessed students expressing their God-given talents in ways that delighted and inspired us all. The Festival created a true sense of community, bringing families together in a fun-filled atmosphere while also pointing us back to the Creator, the ultimate source of beauty and imagination. Events like these remind us that creativity is not simply an academic exercise, but an act of worship, reflecting the image of God in each of us.
This term has been significant as we have made key decisions that will shape the future of our College. We have confirmed our Strategic Priorities for the next three years being, Organisational Development, Shaping Culture, Growing Staff, and Future Ready which will guide our direction and growth. As part of this, the College will transition to a Primary and Secondary structure in 2026, providing clearer pathways and greater opportunities for students. To strengthen our leadership for this journey, we were delighted to appoint Mr Chris Drowley as Deputy Principal during the term. In addition, we are currently advertising for a Director of Primary and Director of Secondary to commence in 2026, further strengthening our executive leadership team.
This is a season of exciting growth for the College, not only in enrolments, but also in the development of our facilities, programs and opportunities. A key focus is the ongoing development of student culture and student leadership, ensuring that our young people are equipped to flourish as confident, faith-filled leaders in their world.
Our Executive Team attended the CSA National Leadership Summit in Melbourne, which was a rich time of learning, encouragement and connection with Christian educational leaders from across the country. The insights gained will strengthen our leadership as we continue to serve our students and families with excellence.
We thank you for your ongoing prayers, encouragement and partnership as we move forward together. God is clearly at work in our College, and it is a privilege to journey with you and your children in this season of growth and connection.
With gratitude and blessing,
Ms Jacqui Munro Principal
Principal Ms Jacqui Munro with Ms Jenny Hudson and Pastor Jason Newcastle of Encompass Church, enjoying a performance at the Festival of Arts.
Aerynn clinches gold!
Victorian
Year 1 Traffic School Primary School
The Year 1 students had a great time learning all about road safety and how bikes move at the Essendon Traffic School. They enjoyed practising looking left and right with a special song and learning how to give way to others. They had a blast riding together, with several students gaining confidence in their bike riding as they gave it a go on the Traffic School road course. A highlight for many students was stopping to wait for the working traffic lights and lights at the train crossing! Back at school, we reflected on the different ways pushes and pulls worked to allow the bikes to move in our Inquiry learning.
Mrs Sally Leong Primary School Teacher
Year 2 Sleepover and Hoopla Excursion
The Year 2 sleepover was an exciting milestone for our students as they began their journey into school camps. Staying overnight at school gave them the chance to build independence, share meals and enjoy special time with friends. A highlight was watching Charlotte’s Web, which tied beautifully into our learning about friendship and kindness. The next day, students headed to Hoopla for a fun-filled morning of climbing, sliding and exploring the soft play. It was wonderful to see everyone trying new things, encouraging one another and celebrating together—a memorable experience of teamwork, courage and friendship!
Ms Matilda Holden Primary School Teacher
Year 3 Excursion to Scienceworks
On Wednesday 3rd September, our Year 3 students enjoyed an exciting excursion to Scienceworks. Their day began in the Planetarium, where they watched the short films Tycho Goes to Mars and The Big Globe.
Students then explored the General Viewing exhibits, where there was plenty of fun and learning to be had. A highlight for some was the interactive game where players selected special armour to smash diamonds, while others particularly enjoyed trying their hand at scoring gymnastics routines.
In the afternoon, the students participated in a dynamic session at the Energy Lab. They explored the three states of matter and were fascinated by a demonstration using liquid nitrogen. One of the most memorable moments was watching a balloon expand on top of a bottle until it eventually burst!
The excursion provided a valuable, hands-on experience that deepened students’ understanding of Chemical and Physical Science, and it was a day filled with both learning and excitement.
Mrs Melissa Schepis Primary School Teacher
Year 6 Coin Operated Museum of Science
The Year 6 Coin Operated Museum of Science was a wonderful success! Students memorised and presented autobiographical speeches in costume, portraying influential artists, inventors and scientists. Each presentation highlighted how their work points to God, the Creator, while also engaging visitors with visually creative props and costumes. Families and guests enjoyed ‘activating’ displays with coin donations, and thanks to their generosity, over $200 was raised for Operation Christmas Child. This contribution will help provide shoebox gifts and share God’s love with children around the world. Congratulations to our Year 6 learners for their creativity, dedication and servant-hearted leadership.
Mr John Longley Primary School Teacher
Year 6 Katrina Nannestad Visit
On Friday 29th August, the Year 6 students were excited to welcome a well-known author, Katrina Nannestad. We are currently studying one of her books, We Are Wolves, so it was extra special to meet her in person. Katrina shared about her books and what inspired her to write them. She also answered many of the questions we were eager to ask and even gave us her autograph!
Later in the day, Katrina revealed some of the methods she uses when writing and led us through an English workshop. She guided us in creating our own book characters, which was a highlight for many of us.
We learnt so much throughout the day and had a wonderful time in the care of Katrina. To conclude, our Primary School Captain, Darren prayed a blessing over Katrina. She commented that this was the best way she could have finished her book tour.
Abby - Year 6 Student
CyberSafety with Susan McLean
On Tuesday 12th August, we had the privilege of welcoming Susan McLean to our school. She spoke with the Year 6 classes and then the Year 5 classes about the importance of being safe online. Susan explained the consequences of cyberbullying and how easy it can be for someone to pretend to be another person on the Internet.
She reminded us that some things may look harmless at first, but can actually be dangerous, and she encouraged us to avoid using social media. Susan also talked about the risks hidden in certain online games, such as Roblox, which can include inappropriate content.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to use our words and actions to build others up, not tear them down. Susan’s message encouraged us to make wise choices online, showing kindness, integrity and respect even when no one else is watching.
We came away with lots of helpful information and practical tips about how to stay safe online. To conclude, we prayed a prayer of blessing over Susan and the important work she is doing all over the world.
Caitlin - Year 6 Student
Chinese Festival of Arts – Chinese Performances
At this year’s Festival of Arts, our Year 4 students delighted the audience with a bilingual drama performance of “Little Tadpoles Look for Mum”, showcasing their growing confidence in integrating Chinese, Science and Drama.
We then enjoyed a very special Chinese performance to celebrate the upcoming Moon Festival. VCE student Annie Wen played the traditional Chinese instrument, the Guzheng, while our School Captain, Hubert, together with Andie, Jovan, Joanne and Kristy, recited a famous Chinese poem about the moon. Muskin appeared gracefully as the Moon Fairy, Chang’e, followed by Year 7 student Olivia performing on the Guzheng for the song “May We All Be Blessed with Longevity” (但愿人长久). Year 7 student Beverley, together with Year 4 students Revere, Suri and Demiana, presented a graceful dance, and Year 7 students Eric and Mandez added their beautiful singing to the performance.
We are especially grateful to our VCE students for contributing their time and talents during such a busy final year of study. We pray that God will grant them wisdom and strength as they prepare for their VCE exams.
Mrs Tracy Xu Chinese Teacher
Middle School
Year 7 English — A Taste of History
In Week 4, our Year 7 students had a unique English lesson — they enjoyed a bowl of borscht!
You might be wondering, how does food connect to English? This term, our class has been reading “The Lost Year” by Katherine Marsh, a work of historical fiction that explores the lives of teenagers during the Great Depression, the Holodomor, and the COVID pandemic. Through this text, students have travelled across different time periods, countries and perspectives.
One of the characters, Mila, loves borscht — a traditional soup that holds special cultural significance. To bring this part of the story to life, we teamed up with Ms Rowse and the Years 7/8 Home Economics team, who guided students in experiencing the flavours Mila cherished. The result? A delicious connection between literature and real life!
We are so grateful to be part of a school community where collaboration between subjects helps create rich, memorable learning experiences for our students.
Mrs Sharon Simic Year 9 Coordinator and Secondary School Teacher
Bridges of Hope
Year 9 students were provided with a fantastic opportunity to camp in Tasmania. Tasmania is an incredibly beautiful island rich in colonial history.
As a group, we visited the Cascades Female Factory in Hobart, Port Arthur and the Richmond Gaol. These sites highlighted the cruelty of the 1900s with the deportation of convicts to Australia, but it also illuminated the ferocity of men and women who would not be denied their freedoms and fought against all odds to obtain them. The incredible courage and wit of individuals were surprising.
We also walked along the coast, taking in the skyline and looking at God’s marvellous creations. We were caught in a blizzard and saw snow and sleet. The camp was educational, exhausting and fun.
Mrs Sharon Simic Year 9 Coordinator and Secondary School Teacher
Urban Endeavor
As part of our Engage 9 program, students spent a week in the city through our Urban Endeavour initiative, focusing on the term’s values of Community and Service. During this week, students independently ventured into the city as a group, arriving together to meet staff at Federation Square at 8:40am. The students showed independence and arrived on time every day. During our Urban Endeavour, we visited the Salvation Army, learning about homelessness, its causes and effects and ways in which the Salvation Army helps those in need. We followed this up by visiting The Big Issue and hearing from a man who had been homeless and, after many years struggling, had finally received government housing to support him. His story impacted us as we learnt that his struggles were born out of grief and schizophrenia. Students then completed a City Search, where they discovered how hard it is to find help when you are homeless and on an extremely tight budget.
To consolidate their learning, students created short documentaries highlighting the difficulties of homelessness, the associated statistics, and a call to action. They also completed a $5 Challenge, which became a $10 Challenge thanks to Encompass Cares’ money match. Students brought items to donate to those who are homeless, and they also brought ‘Something Special’ for Operation Christmas Child.
But this was not all.
Students also visited The Shrine of Remembrance. They learnt that this site is an important memorial for those who have lost loved ones in war, and especially for those who never had the body of their loved one returned, or no grave was made. The Shrine is vital for our community in sharing stories and as a means to ‘never forget’.
Finally, we completed the week with an ‘Amazing Race’, and came back to school to give Encompass Care our donations and to add our ‘special’ items to the Operation Christmas Child box.
It was a huge week of learning.
Mrs Sharon Simic Year 9 Coordinator and Secondary School Teacher
Senior School Health and Human Development
- The Baby
Experience
The baby experience was definitely a learning curve, filled with the highs and the many lows, but showed outstandingly the realities of having a baby and what the late nights and the early mornings really do look like. The cries were quite real, and it was like a mother-switch or instinct became inclined to the noise. I am genuinely glad that the experience actually gave me a mindset of what having a baby and the needs of it require – and it definitely is not a one-person job. It highlighted how much patience, consistency, and emotional strength is needed to care for another life, and how important support systems are in managing those responsibilities. It also gave me a much deeper appreciation for the sacrifices parents make daily, often without recognition, just to meet the basic needs of their child. In conclusion, while the experience was challenging, it was also incredibly eye-opening. It showed me that parenting is both exhausting and rewarding, requiring teamwork, resilience and love. More than anything, it reminded me that raising a child is never easy, but with the right mindset and support, it can also be one of the most meaningful and life-changing journeys a person can go through.
Genesis - Year 11 Student
Unit 4 Foundation Maths
The Year 12 Foundation Maths class had an exciting and hands-on learning experience when they visited IKEA in Richmond to complete a real-world design task for their final SAC. One of their challenges was to design and cost a fully functional kitchen, using both their mathematical skills and creativity. Students began by exploring the display kitchens in the showroom, taking note of different layouts, styles, and practical features. With each student working with unique room dimensions, they then used the IKEA design software to bring their ideas to life. They had to carefully consider measurements, budgeting and functionality to ensure their final designs were both practical and affordable. The task gave students the opportunity to apply key mathematical concepts such as scale drawings, area, perimeter, and costing in a real-world context. It was a fun and engaging day that combined problem-solving, creativity and practical learning – with some students discovering their hidden talent for interior design!
Mrs Emily Wiltshire Secondary School Teacher
Year 10 Boost Camp
From Wednesday 13th - Friday 15th August, the Year 10 students attended a “Mid-Year Boost Camp” at Upper Plenty Conference Centre. This camp was such an incredible experience, full of adventure, teamwork and fun. I loved getting to try so many activities I don’t usually get the chance to do. Archery, laser tag, rock climbing, flying fox, tube sliding and geocaching were all so exciting, and each challenge pushed me to step out of my comfort zone. I also really enjoyed the team initiatives, where we worked together to solve problems and support one another. One of the highlights for me was building boxes for Operation Christmas Child. It felt amazing knowing we were contributing to something bigger than ourselves. Evenings were just as memorable. Singing and praise by the piano, gathering around the campfire, and tackling puzzles gave us a chance to relax, reflect, and share laughs. I loved the mix of excitement, creativity and quiet moments, and it made me appreciate both the activities and the friendships formed. Overall, the camp was challenging, fun and meaningful, and I left feeling proud, inspired, and full of wonderful memories, definitely a great mid-year boost.
Joseph - Year 10 Student
Art Year 10 Folio Making
The Year 10 Folio Making students have been studying French Impressionism and have chosen an artist to then try and replicate their work, including artists such as Renoir, Monet, Pissarro and Sisley.
On Monday 25th August students visited the National Gallery of Victoria to see these artwork in real life, and to understand more about the art movement within that time period.
After visiting the Gallery, students were treated to lunch in the nearby gardens, followed by some delicious croissants.
Mrs Annie Bennie Secondary Art Teacher
Student Leadership
Footy Colours Day
On Tuesday 16th September, Northside came alive with colour and community spirit as we celebrated Footy Colours Day. Our Christian Community Captain, Peter, led the Student Leadership Team in organising a range of footy-themed activities that brought the whole school together. Students eagerly joined in the Coin Line, Longest Kick and Handball competitions, each event filled with fun and friendly rivalry.
Congratulations to Daniel in Year 11, who claimed victory in the Longest Kick, with Ava in Year 9 coming second and Isaac in Year 5 third. In the Handball competition, Michael in Year 4 took out first place, with Jonathan in Year 4 and Zac in Year 3 sharing equal second place.
A highlight of the day was the much-anticipated Teacher vs Student footy match. With the help of some student players, the teachers managed to secure a narrow win—though the students certainly made them work hard for it!
Beyond the games and laughter, the day carried a deeper purpose. Together, our college community raised $447.35 for the Fight Cancer Foundation, supporting vital work for families in need.
On behalf of the Student Leadership team, thank you to every student, teacher and parent who participated and contributed.
Christie Vaughn Student Leadership Co-Ordinator
Christmas in July
On Friday 25th July, Northside had a fantastic time celebrating Christmas in July.
We saw staff and students participating in a Christmas themed dress up day, enjoying a festive atmosphere created by Christmas themed music played by our senior school band, and tasted delicious hot chocolate and cookies from a hugely successful fundraising sale.
All proceeds are given to Operation Christmas Child, and the Northside community has raised an astonishing amount of $1,047.45 to support and bring joy to children in need around the globe.
Danielle, Community Captain
Library Book Week
Book Week was a fantastic celebration of reading and creativity, with this year’s theme ‘Book an Adventure’ inspiring fun across the College. In the lead-up, Prep to Year 4 classes explored the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) shortlisted books and eagerly awaited the announcement of the winners.
The Dress Up Parade was a highlight, with students arriving in creative and vibrant costumes. Thank you to Mr Woolan for creating our ‘Book an Adventure’ boat. Students loved climbing aboard to pose in their costumes.
Throughout the week, students could also visit the Library to take part in activities inspired by the CBCA shortlisted books. A favourite was the air-dry clay activity, where students created miniatures inspired by There’s a Dinosaur in My Pocket
Congratulations to Elijah (Prep) and Mia (Year 5), the winners of our Truck Cat Colouring Competition. Well done also to our Picture Book Competition winners, Genevieve (Prep), Anastasia (Year 2) and Ellie (Year 5). Your imaginative stories and creative illustrations really wowed us!
Thank you to everyone who took part in making Book Week so memorable!
Mrs Kylie Drowley Library Teacher
Science Science Week
We kicked off Science Week with a fun dress up day and a meet and greet the bunnies. They were 3 weeks old and very cute! The Years 11 and 12 Biology students assisted in watching our little bunnies very carefully as Primary and Secondary school students had a chance to pat them and see how inherited features are displayed in rabbits. Several other experimental activities were hosted by Miss Tsiros, engaging curiosity and wonder among our younger students. Mrs Chui ran an escape room for the Upper Primary and Secondary school students with the theme around “space”. A performance group called STEMania came to entertain the Years 5 - 8 cohort, about all aspects of STEM, creating a fun and engaging way to look at science and the scientific method through drama and interaction.
Mrs Roshel Ravida Science Teacher
Unit 4 Biology excursionMelbourne Zoo Comparing Primates
Unit 4 Biology students had an excursion to Melbourne Zoo where they engaged in a workshop around observation and education of primates, including anatomy, DNA and behavioural traits that have evolved through natural selection. Students gathered qualitative data through observations of primates behaviour, communication, physical features and habitats and looked at how these have changed over time. We were also so fortunate to meet a 3 week old baby giraffe and spent the rest of the day observing other animals on our last excursion for Biology and Year 12.
Student Achievments
Aerynn clinches gold!
At the 2025 Sherbrooke Silver Cup Field Archery Tournament, Aerynn clinched the gold medal in the Under 16 Barebow Recurve Division. She is also claiming two potential Victorian State Records, for both the Under 16 and Under 18 divisions, which are currently pending verification.
Anthea Field
INSPiRE Talent Development Coordinator
Victorian Youth Fencing Competition
We are delighted to share some good news with you. Over a cold weekend in August, Isabel achieved outstanding results at the Joseph D’Onofrio Challenge, a Victorian youth fencing competition. Isabel took home a gold medal in Under 10 foil and a silver medal in Under 12 foil.
Well done Isabel!
Mrs Roshel Ravida Science Teacher
Sport
Year 2 HoopTime
The Year 2 students had a fantastic time at the Hooptime Basketball excursion! It was a wonderful opportunity for them to put their skills into action, playing real games and experiencing what it is like to compete against other schools. The focus of the day was teamwork—students supported one another on and off the court, showing great encouragement and enthusiasm. Everyone had a role to play, whether it was passing, defending, or cheering from the sidelines. The day was filled with energy, smiles, and plenty of learning as students grew in confidence while representing our school with pride.
Ms Matilda Holden Primary School Teacher
Downball 2025
On 15th August, the Years 3 – 6 students went to Mullum Mullum Stadium for a big Downball Tournament against other schools. My team was called the Light Blue Llamas, and we were one of the Year 5 Enthusiasm Teams. Our team members were Ora, Jackey, Tobias, Vince and Paul.
We played six games during the day. Our first game was against Waverley Christian College and we won! After a short break, we played the Northside Christian College White Wildcats (the Year 6 Enthusiasm Team). It was really close, but we managed to win again.
Next, we played MR5 and MR4, and we won both of those games too. After another break, it was time for the finals. I can’t remember which school we played, but we gave it our best and won that as well!
At the end of the day, all the teachers played a fun game of downball. Mrs. Smith played for our school, but she got out, and a teacher from another school won. Then we got our awards and went back to school. It was such a fun day!
Ora - Year 5 Student
CSEN State Netball Championships
Netball highlights Years 7 - 9 Boys
On Tuesday 29th July, we went to the State Sport Centres in Parkville to play for the State Netball Championships. The games were tough and the results weren’t the best, but the Years 7 - 9 junior boys team persevered and pushed through, winning one of their games by 16 points. Our team played well and had lots of fun. We won a few games and enjoyed the netball championships very much.
Richard, Year 9 Student
Netball highlights Senior girls
On Tuesday 29th July, selected students went to the State Netball Championships, competing against awesome and well-skilled teams. Although we did not bring home a medal, the day was filled with lessons of picking each other up, and being supportive through the highs and lows. Thank you to all the teachers who made this happen.
Genesis, Year 11 Student
CSEN Athletics Carnival
We had 42 Primary school competitors enter into the CSEN Athletics Carnival, all of whom arrived bright and early for our 8:00am departure on the morning of Friday 12th September. Each student represented Northside with great effort, and as a team we placed 4th overall.
A special thank you to Mr Paul Burgess for his commitment to the early morning running training, and to my wonderful PE team for their ongoing dedication.
Mrs Anna Venegas Sports Coordinator
Selected students have recently completed and submitted their Science Talent Search and Maths Talent Quest projects. We congratulate all students who undertook these challenging projects, requiring considerable time, effort and commitment. Teachers from a range of schools have finalised the marking, and we look forward to receiving the results soon.
Over the course of this term, students also participated in the Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC) and the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS). Congratulations to all who took part in these competitions. A special mention goes to Harry (Year 9), who sat the Year 12 AMC and achieved a High Distinction — an outstanding effort.
Students in the Years 5 - 6 INSPiRE class have been engaged in the Future Problem Solving program. This term, they sat the Qualifying Round, which encourages students to analyse possible future scenarios, identify potential issues, and propose creative solutions that may also help us to address challenges in the present. We await the results.
We were also delighted to host G.A.T.E.WAYS, with a focus on mathematics enrichment. Students in Years 1 - 2 explored negative integers and train station problemsolving, while Years 5 - 6 investigated how triangles inform GPS and video game design, as well as using algebra and graphing for data collection. A big thank you to all parents, staff and students for supporting this valuable program.
This term, over 70 students from Years 5 - 12 took part in the Write a Book in a Day 12-hour competition, a national competition that challenges teams to write, illustrate, and publish an original book within a single day. Not only did our students showcase their creativity, teamwork and perseverance, but together, they also raised an incredible $6,205 in support of The Kids’ Cancer Project. Congratulations to all the students involved for
their outstanding effort, and thank you to our school community for your generosity and encouragement. This achievement reflects both the talent of our students and the heart of our community in supporting such a meaningful cause.
Finally, our Year 9 Debating Team competed in the Round 1 Playoffs and progressed to the Octofinals. Although they narrowly missed out on the quarter finals in a challenging debate on politics, the team achieved in the top 16 placing in the state — a fantastic result! Congratulations to Jasdeep, Moyo, Lawton and Aneeqa, and thank you to their parents for transporting them to evening debates and supporting their efforts.
Mrs Anthea Field INSPiRE Talent Development Coordinator
Wellbeing
Shine and Strength
During Term 3 our Year 8 students participated in the Shine and Strength program as part of their Pastoral Care classes. Through each program we affirmed the God given identity of our students, nurturing the truth that they are wonderfully made, uniquely gifted, and created with intention.
Shine guides young women to embrace their worth, strength and purpose, while Strength equips young men to grow in significance, resilience and purpose.
Together, these programs encourage students to recognise their true value, make wise choices, and step with confidence into the fullness of who God has called them to be. Grounded in belonging and hope, they call forth the unique gold within each student, cultivating confidence, character and faith for a purposeful, thriving life. It has been a wonderful joy to journey through this term together and we pray each student continues to grow and encourage one another in who God has created them to be.
Chelsea Weeks Student Wellbeing
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
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Matthew 5:9
Overlooking Offences with Patience and Grace
Proverbs 19:11 reminds us, “A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offence.” Patience is not passive—it is a Spirit-filled strength that allows us to pause, consider, and choose grace over retaliation. Overlooking an offence does not mean excusing sin, but rather discerning whether the situation is small enough to let go, or serious enough to address.
One helpful way that we think about this as part of our PeaceWise curriculum is through “red and green lights.” A green light situation might be when someone makes an offhand comment, forgets to include you, or simply has a bad day. These are opportunities to show empathy, overlook the offence, and extend the same grace Christ shows us. A red light situation, however, involves harm, injustice, or repeated patterns of behaviour that need to be addressed with love and truth. Here, wisdom calls us not to ignore, but to speak up with courage and care.
Reflect on a time when someone overlooked your offence. They could have criticised or shamed you, but instead chose patience. How did that feel? As disciples of Jesus, we are invited to extend that same kindness—discerning carefully between the “greens” to release and the “reds” that require gentle confrontation.
Ms Christie Vaughn Peacewise Representative
Administration
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Absences
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. Follow Northside on
If your child is absent please email attendance@ncc.vic.edu.au with your child’s name, year level and reason they are absent or use the Seqta Engage app.
SEQTA Absences Notices
Parent Notified Absences is available within the SEQTA Engage App, meaning you can notify the College of your child(rens) absence through the App by selecting ABSENCES from the Menu in SEQTA Engage. Here are screenshots to help you locate this option, should you need it:
If you have any questions, please call the friendly admin staff for assistance on 03 9467 2499.
Finance Team
If you need to contact our Finance Team, you will likely speak to one of our the following staff:
Leigh Adcock Business Manager
Bee Yew Assistant School Burser
Jasmine Chan Accounts Office
Suni Harun Accounts Office
Ms Liz Tsiros Northside Administration
Enrolments
Prep 2027
Applications for Prep 2027 are now open. Families with a child born between 1st January 2021 to 30th April 2022 are invited to apply for Prep 2027 enrolment online. Applications will close on Friday 20th February 2026
Please note that applications for Prep 2026 have now closed. If you have a child due to commence Prep next year, and you have not applied, please contact the Enrolments Team as soon as possible by email at enrol@ncc.vic.edu.au or by calling 9467 2499.
Year 7 2027
Families with a sibling expecting to commence at Northside in Year 7 in 2027 are encouraged to submit an online enrolment application as soon as possible. Unfortunately the College cannot guarantee a place for siblings as places are limited; submitting an early enrolment application will assist the College with its planning for 2027.
VISA Changes
If your child has been granted a new visa, permanent residency or obtained Australian citizenship since 1st August 2025, please provide a copy of the grant notification to our Enrolments team via email, or leave a copy with our College Reception. The College is required to keep a copy of all current visas (permanent and temporary) on student files in order to demonstrate eligibility of enrolment at Northside. Families that do not provide a current visa when requested may need to have their enrolment reviewed by the Principal.
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
Are you leaving Northside?
Families that are not returning to Northside in 2026 must advise the College in writing by Thursday 18th September 2025 (last day of Term 3). Families who withdraw late in 2025 may be required to pay a term’s 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.
Uniforms
New Uniforms to Buy
College families can purchase new uniforms from Academy Uniforms.
Uniform Reminder
From Term 1 2026: all students may only wear uniforms that bear the 2016 logo and/or the 2022 logo. This includes school bags for Primary School and Secondary School students.
From Term 1 2028: all Primary School and Secondary School students may only wear uniforms that bear the 2022 logo. This excludes the school bag and hat for Primary School students.
From Term 1 2029: all items of uniform including the College bag and hat must bear the 2022 logo.
Further information regarding this change is available on the College website
FROM 2026 THIS LOGO CAN NOT BE WORN!
2013 College Logo
Uniforms with this logo can only be worn in 2025. From 2026, uniforms with this logo can no longer be worn.
2016 College Logo
Uniforms with this logo can only be worn until the end of 2027, with the exception of the College bag and Primary School hat, which can be used until the end of 2028.
2022 College Logo
From 2029, all students must only wear the College uniform with this logo. All previous logos will no longer be permitted.
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.
Ms Jacqui Munro Principal
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 Head of Student Wellbeing
Mr Jared Stocks Chaplain
Ph: (03) 9467
Email: ncc@ncc.vic.edu.au www.ncc.vic.edu.au