Jacqui Munro
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
Northside Christian College - The Vine
Principal’s Message
Prep Bundoora Park Farm Visit
Year 2 Bible Studies
Years 4 - 6 2026 CLTAV Chinese
Talent
Year
Year
Year 6 Shark Tank
National Simultaneous Storytime
Year 7 Camp
Year 9 VET Excursion
Year 10 Melbourne Holocaust Museum
Year 12 Excursion to Melbourne
Magistrates’ Court
VCE Retreat
Athletics Carnival
District Cross Country Competition
Northern Metropolitan Regional Cross
Country Competition
CSEN Soccer Championships
Lego Workshop
Years 8–9 Mooting Workshop
Inclusive Education
Daniel Principe: Guiding Young Hearts
PeaceWise
Family Library Spotlight
First
2026 TERM DATES
Term 3: 15/07/2026 - 17/09/2026
Term 4: 05/10/2026 - 04/12/2026
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY CHAPEL
Parents are welcome to join our Chapel session every fortnight on Monday mornings (Week A) at Encompass Church
Primary Chapel: 9am - 9:45am
Secondary Chapel: 9:45am - 10:35am
PRIMARY
Prep Bundoora Park Farm Visit
On Friday 19th June, the Preps visited Bundoora Park Farm for a fantastic day of exploring farm life. Students loved feeding the animals, cuddling guinea pigs, and taking an old school hay ride around the property
We also learned about sustainability by making compost using very stinky manure and planting our own snow pea seeds to take back to school Inside the farmhouse, everyone had the chance to mill flour, churn cream, and work together to bake fresh scones
We finished the day with a quick picnic in the sunshine before hopping back on the bus to return to school tired, happy, and full of new farmyard knowledge
Olivia Natoli
Lower Primary Co-ordinator/Primary Teacher
Northside Christian College - The Vine
Year 2 Bible Studies
In Year 2 Bible Studies, students have been learning about King David and how God chose him to be king even though he may not have seemed like the obvious choice We explored how David’ s story points forward to Jesus, who came many years later as the true King of Kings
Students discovered the amazing connection between David and Jesus, who were born around 1,000 years apart, and talked about how God’ s plan continued across many generations To help bring the learning to life, students created and decorated their own paper crowns
It was a fun hands-on way to remember that David was an important king in the Bible, but Jesus is the greatest King of all The students loved wearing their crowns and celebrating what they had learned!
Esa Harri Specialist Teacher
Years 4 - 6 2026 CLTAV Chinese Talent Competition
20 students from Years 4 - 6 proudly represented Northside Christian College at the 2026 CLTAV Chinese Talent Competition for Victorian Primary School Students on 22nd May
Competing alongside more than 200 students from 20 schools across Victoria, they presented Moonlight Over China
, a creative performance featuring Chinese poetry recitation, dance, Guzheng music, choir singing and traditional Hanfu costumes
Inspired by classical works from Li Bai and Su Shi, the performance connected ancient Chinese culture with China' s modern lunar exploration. We are delighted to share that Northside received the Best Creativity Award. Congratulations to all students for their hard work, teamw s unique cultural performance to life.
Tracy Xu Specialist Teacher
Northside Christian College - The Vine
Year 4 Adventure at Mill Valley Ranch
Our Year 4 students recently enjoyed an unforgettable camp experience at Mill Valley Ranch, filled with adventure, learning and plenty of fun Despite some wet weather, spirits remained high as students embraced every opportunity to challenge themselves and try new activities One of the highlights was horse riding, where students developed confidence and learned new skills while riding around the arena under the guidance of experienced instructors
Another favourite was canoeing, with students working together to paddle across the water and navigate a range of challenges Teamwork, perseverance and plenty of laughter were on display throughout the activity
The evenings were equally memorable. Students stepped back in time for a delicious colonial dinner before joining in a lively bush dance. The hall was filled with music, laughter and enthusiastic dancing as students enjoyed this unique camp tradition.
A special highlight of camp was Cowboy Chapel, where students gathered to reflect on God' s love and faithfulness. Through songs, stories and shared worship, students were reminded that God is always with us, guiding and caring for us wherever we go Camp was a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith, strengthen friendships and create lasting memories together
Sharon Halden Primary Teacher
Northside Christian College - The Vine
Year 5 Hanging Rock Excursion
Our Year 5 students enjoyed a wonderful day exploring Hanging Rock as part of their Science unit on erosion and weathering. Despite the misty weather, students embraced the adventure and eagerly hiked across the ancient volcanic rock formations Along the way, they learned how natural processes such as weathering and erosion shape the landscape over time, as well as the important role people play in protecting and preserving these unique environments
The walk provided plenty of opportunities for students to problem-solve, work together, and carefully navigate some tricky uphill sections and uneven terrain We were incredibly proud of the resilience, enthusiasm, and positive attitude shown by all students throughout the day A highlight of the excursion was learning from our knowledgeable tour guide, whose fascinating insights helped bring our classroom learning to life in a memorable and engaging way
Caitie Smith Primary Teacher
Year 6 Shark Tank
What does it look like to use business as a force for good? As part of their Economics and Business Inquiry unit, our Year 6 students stepped into the role of entrepreneurs, developing and pitching innovative business ideas designed to meet real needs in today’ s society.
Working in teams, students identified gaps in the market and carefully considered the financial, ethical and sustainable impact of their ideas before presenting their pitches in a Shark Tank-style showcase Their ideas were evaluated by a judging panel made up of staff including our Director of Primary, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience
Grounded in the inquiry question, “In what way would God have us run businesses, create goods or provide services?”, the project challenged students to think beyond profit and explore how business can be used to steward God’ s resources wisely, serve others and contribute positively to the world around them
We were impressed b ught their ideas to life
Tahlia Wallison
Primary Teacher
r
National Simultaneous Storytime
On Wednesday 27th May, all our Primary students participated in National Simultaneous Storytime, joining schools and libraries across Australia in a shared celebration of books and reading
This year ’ s story was Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller Written by football veterans Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd, students were able to listen to a story which featured Aussie animals competing in a soccer game with a heartwarming message about courage and determination
Students were also invited to visit the library at lunchtime to participate in a variety of activities inspired by the book
Kylie Drowley Library Teacher
Northside Christian College - The Vine
Year 7 Camp
From 6th - 8th May, the Year 7 students took a break from their studies to attend school camp The camp was held at the beautiful Camp Howqua, surrounded by mountains, fresh air and stunning natural scenery Throughout the three days, students participated in a wide range of activities, including a survivor course, high ropes, flying fox, waterslide, rock climbing, archery and horse riding
These activities encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, overcome their fears, and challenge themselves to achieve their personal goals With temperatures dropping as low as 5°C, it was important for both students and staff to stay warm by rugging up and gathering around the fireplace at the end of each day.
Sofia Sarraf
Secondary Teacher
Northside Christian College - The Vine
Year 9 VET Excursion
On 28th May, the Year 9 cohort attended the VET Discovery Expo, held at Town Hall Broadmeadows. This event provided students with the opportunity to learn more about Vocational Education and Training (VET) and speak with representatives from institutions offering training pathways for a variety of careers.
Some of the highlights of the day included trying on a beekeeper’ s suit to learn about the farming industry, exploring sound production by testing professional equipment, using tools to complete woodworking tasks, and interacting with a friendly dog to learn about animal care studies
This excursion was organised as part of the Year 9 Work Studies program and encouraged students to broaden their understanding of potential career pathways and future opportunities
Sofia Sarraf
Secondary Teacher
Northside Christian College - The Vine
Year 10 Melbourne Holocaust Museum
On 7th May, our Year 10 students visited the Melbourne Holocaust Museum as part of their cross-curricular 'What is Truth?' unit This term, students explored how truth is told, discerned and sourced in Christian Life Studies, English and History
Through impactful exhibits, personal artefacts and survivor testimony, students explored the experiences of individuals who lived through one of history' s darkest chapters - gaining insights that go beyond the classroom Our Year 10 students had the opportunity to interview Holocaust survivor, Paul Grinwald Born in Paris in 1933, Paul was just 7 years old when the Nazis occupied Paris. We were moved hearing Paul' s first-hand accounts and experiences; and this brought real depth and humanity to their classroom learning.
Staff were proud of how respectfully our students engaged with such confronting material. Excursions like this remind us why studying history matters: not just to know what happened, but to understand why it must never happen again.
Gabrielle De La Vega Secondary Teacher
Year 12 Excursion to Melbourne Magistrates’ Court
On Wednesday 27th May, the Unit 3 (Year 12) VCE Legal Studies class attended an excursion to the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court in Melbourne' s CBD
The class had the opportunity to sit in the Court' s public gallery, witnessing several hearings that addressed both disputes in civil law and offences in criminal law
The excursion provided a valuable opportunity to bring theoretical understanding of key knowledge and course content to life. Witnessing first-hand the human experience of individuals whose lives have been touched by the legal process is compelling.
The observations in the Court provided the basis of robust discussion for students in the following lessons back at college Students were able to draw greater depth of meaning from their learning, and reflect on the strengths and limit society as it strives to deliver just outcomes th
Teresa Connelly VCE Legal Studies Teacher
VCE Retreat
Our VCE students recently stepped away from the term for a three-day, two-night retreat, d them as they head into the demands of Term
Across the retreat, students engaged in subje workshops, targeted study skills sessions, and activities that built connection, resilience and months ahead
Alongside the academic focus, there was spac strengthen friendships and enjoy time togeth environment
A valuable few days investing not just in learning, but in the students themselves and how they step into the VCE journey ahead
Lenna Waters Head of VCE & Student Pathways
Athletics Carnival SPORT
On Thursday 14th of May Year 3-6 had an opportunity to go to the Mea Athletics Track for each grade to compete against the opposing house g There were many events on this day that were very fun and also compet The weather was also very sunny and suitable for the people competing
There were also many records broken on this day
Overall the winning house group was the COURAGEOUS CONQUERO
By Isaac D and Jaden S
For our Year 12 students, the day also marked their final Athletics Carnival at the College Their enthusiasm, leadership and ability to fully embrace every moment helped shape such a fun and positive experience for the wider Secondary community
A huge thank you to all staff, student leaders and supporters who helped make the carnival such a success
Anna Venegas Sports Coordinator
District Cross Country Competition
This year Northside Christian College had the opportunity to compete in the district cross country competition It was held at Findon Park Reserve Everyone was very excited since this was the first time Northside had competed in this competition Students from 3-6 attended and everyone had an amazing time For this competition students had to place from 1st - 12th to proceed to the next district
The whole day was very fun and everyone tried their best The under tens had to run 2ks and the 11s and 12s had to run 3ks There was a huge course and we had to run up hills, down hills, in ditches and on tracks!
In the end Northside placed a whopping 3rd! Everyone was very happy and had an amazing time putting their skills to use and flourishing throughout the day!
Overall this experience was an amazing way for students to flourish, grow and show their skills building their resilience and skills!
Jessie S Year 6 Student
Northern Metropolitan Regional Cross Country Competition
Congratulations to Primary students Michael and Isaac, who have qualified for the Northern Metropolitan Regional Cross Country competition later this month! Competing in challenging wet and wintry conditions, both students demonstrated outstanding grit, determination and resilience, finishing in an impressive 5th and 8th place respectively.
A huge well done also to our other runners – Hannah, Nicole, William, Tobias, Aiden, Jessie and Grace – who embraced the tough conditions, represented the College with pride and gave their absolute best from start to finish
We wish Michael and Isaac the very best as they prepare to take on the next stage of competition!
Anna Venegas Sports Coordinator
CSEN Soccer Championships
What a day on the pitch for our teams at the recent CSEN Soccer Championships, competing against schools from across Victoria A huge congratulations to our Primary Girls team who went undefeated all day and were crowned Division 1 Champions after an outstanding campaign
Our Primary Boys team also had an incredible run, finishing 2nd in Division 1 after a hard-fought Grand Final that went to penalties following a 1-1 result at full time Strong results right across the College also saw our Junior Girls finish 2nd in Division 1, Junior Boys place 4th in Division 1, and our Senior Boys take out 1st place in Division 2
Beyond the results, it was fantastic to see the teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship displayed throughout the day. Well done to all of our students who represented the College so well.
Anna Venegas Sports Coordinator
Lego Workshop
Year 7 students recently participated in the engaging “Brickulum” LEGO workshop led by Ryan Evans, a former LEGO Masters contestant. Students tackled two exciting challenges: designing a zip-line creation that tackled friction, stability, and storytelling through creative design. They also engineered a 1-metre cantilever, applying their understanding of balance, structural strength, and weight distribution to achieve impressive results.
Anthea Field Talent Development Coordinator
Years 8–9 Mooting Workshop
A great experience for our Years 8–9 INSPiRE students yesterday/last week, attending the Melbourne Inter-school Mooting Workshop at Ivanhoe Grammar School, held on the La Trobe University campus The workshop supported students in building their understanding of mooting, while strengthening their reasoning and public speaking skills as they prepare for upcoming inter-school competitions later this year Well done to our students for leaning in, growing in confidence, and embracing the challenge
Anthea Field Talent Development Coordinator
Hidden Disabilities INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
At Northside, Inclusive Education is grounded in the belief that every student is uniquely created in the image of God and has the right to access, participate in, and flourish within a supportive and respectful learning environment We value diversity and recognise that students bring a wide range of strengths, experiences, cultures, identities, and learning needs to our community. Through inclusive practices, the College seeks to foster a strong sense of belonging, promote equity, and remove barriers to learning and participation so that all students can thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. With shared responsibility, we are strengthened through collaboration between staff, students, families, and the wider community to ensure every learner is known, valued, and supported.
Many organisations and initiatives advocate for and support individuals with disabilities and additional needs within the community One such initiative is The Sunflower Initiative, which aims to raise awareness and promote understanding of hidden disabilities Through increased visibility, education, and community support, the initiative encourages inclusive practices and helps create environments where individuals feel recognised, respected, and supported The Sunflower initiative supports those with disability to gently communicate that they may have a need you may not be aware of Sometimes it might be the family or carers themselves that need the support in that space If you spot a sunflower, then you are spotting an opportunity to love as Jesus loves as we banned together as His family to share in love, kindness, patience and selflessness Celebrating that we are all handcrafted by the King of Kings, who uses our greatest challenges for good May we make way for His will and glorify His name in our hearts, with our tongues and through our actions
Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it is not there
Globally 1 in 6 of us live with a disability. That is approximately 1.3 billion people.
But while some of us experience a disability that is visible, many have a non-visible condition or experience a combination of both visible and non-visible conditions These disabilities can be temporary, situational or permanent They can be neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental as well as physical, visual, auditory and include sensory and processing difficulties They can also be respiratory as well as chronic health conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, chronic pain and sleep disorders
Jamie Duncan
Inclusive Education Coordinator
For more information about the Sunflower Initiative, scan the QR code:
Daniel Principe: Guiding Young Hearts WELLBEING
On 11th June, the College welcomed Daniel Principe back to Northside, along with his co-presenter Emma Tabacaru, who spoke with students in Years 5 - 8 and 11 - 12 about exploring the social and cultural influences shaping young people today With a Christian worldview, these sessions provided students with practical tools to build respectful, empathetic and healthy relationships while thoughtfully navigating the messages and pressures of the world they live in Each session provided honest relationship education for students, covering a range of topics in an authentic, value-based and evidence-driven way
Each student was challenged and encouraged in their worth and identity, knowing they are not alone and instead supported and valued Years 9 and 10 cohorts will have the opportunity to hear Daniel present workshops to them on 20th July We feel honoured to partner with Daniel each year Thank you to the parents who attended the parent evening presented by Daniel, which also discussed the issues presented above We pray that you feel equipped and strengthened in navigating this space with your young people
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Matthew 5:9
One of the most challenging lessons I have learned as a parent is that my children' s behaviour is not always the thing that needs managing first often, it is my own heart
I remember hearing someone say, "As parents, we need to stop freaking out and learn to manage our freaking selves " At first, it made me laugh Then it made me uncomfortable Because if I' m honest, there have been many moments when I have expected my children to regulate emotions that I wasn 't regulating myself.
The truth is, children are always watching. They notice our tone, our reactions, how we handle disappointment, and what we do when conflict arises. Long before they listen to our advice, they are learning from our example. This is one of the things I love about PeaceWise. It reminds us that while we cannot control other people, we can learn to steward ourselves well. When frustration rises, we can choose attack, escape, or the way of peacemaking.
For me, peacemaking often begins with a simple question: What is happening in me right now? Am I responding out of fear or out of love? Am I trying to control someone else, or am I taking responsibility for my own emotions and actions? When we learn to regulate our emotions, we create safety for our children
We model what it looks like to pause before reacting, listen before speaking, apologise when we ' re wrong, and seek understanding rather than victory Before our children can learn to calm themselves, they often need a calm adult beside them
None of this means we get it right all the time I certainly don't But each day presents another opportunity to practise Another opportunity to choose connection over control Another opportunity to choose love over fear Another opportunity to honour the people God has entrusted to us, even in moments of disagreement As James 1:19 reminds us, "Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry "
May our homes be places where our children not only hear about peace but see it lived out Because little eyes are always watching, and what a gift it is to model the peace of Christ for them
Christie
Vaughn Head of Student Engagement
FAMILY LIBRARY SPOTLIGHT
Raising Spirit-Led Kids
As part of our ongoing Family Library feature, we are pleased to highlight another resource available for parents to borrow from our collection.
This edition, we are featuring Raising Spirit-Led Kids by Seth Dahl
As parents, we invest significant time and energy into helping our children grow academically, socially, emotionally, and physically Yet one of the most important areas of development can sometimes be overlooked helping our children recognise and grow in the unique spiritual gifts God has placed within them
In Raising Spirit-Led Kids, children' s pastor Seth Dahl provides practical and faith-filled guidance for parents who desire to cultivate a home where faith is lived, shared, and experienced together The book explores how to create a culture of faith within your family, help children navigate spiritual realities, and encourage them to live out God' s Kingdom in their everyday lives
Filled with practical tools and encouragement, this resource equips parents to minister to and with their children, helping them develop confidence in hearing God' s voice and responding to His leading It is a powerful reminder that faith is not simply taught it is modelled, nurtured, and lived out together within the family
If you are looking for practical ways to encourage your child' s spiritual growth and create a Christ-centred culture in your home, this book is a wonderful place to start
If you are interested in borrowing from our Family Library, please visit the Library after school between 3:05pm and 3:30pm, where Mrs Drowley will be available to assist you
We pray this resource encourages and equips you as you continue to lead your children in faith and help them discover all God has created them to be.
Christie Vaughn Head of Student Engagement
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
First Responders' Day
On Wednesday, 10the June, the College welcomed paramedics, highway patrol officers, and firefighters not for an emergency, thankfully, but in celebration of First Responders' Day! Students came dressed in blue to honour the service of our local first responders, whose combined efforts continuously keep our community safe and connected
From 7:45am, student leaders, Encompass Church volunteers, and our dear teachers, arrived bright and early to prepare a smoky sausage sizzle This, combined with gold coin donations from the student dress-up, raised a total of $638 for the Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), helping to share the hope that MAF spreads by supporting their delivery of essential services to isolated communities around the globe
It was an bustling morning of community and discovery as students spoke with the first responders and explored the specialised functions of their emergency vehicles, with some even climbing into the seats of their cars, motorbikes and truck We look forward to seeing them back next year with friendly lights and sirens!
Lyvia S
College Captain
STUDENT CULTURE & DEVELOPMENT
Attendance
Every Student Matters Every Day Matters
At Northside Christian College, we believe that every student matters, and every day matters Coming to school regularly gives students the strongest start, academically, socially, and emotionally When students attend consistently, they learn more, build friendships, grow in confidence, and feel part of our community
Attendance is about more than being in a classroom Each school day brings chances to learn something new, connect with others, grow in character, and strengthen faith These everyday moments help students discover their strengths and understand more about who God has created them to be
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) reminds us that “attendance at school is important for students to access learning opportunities and achieve their potential. ” We see this every day, students thrive when they are present, engaged, and connected.
Recent research from Christian Schools Australia and Harvard University’ s Human Flourishing Program shows us that young people flourish when they experience strong relationships, meaningful learning, positive character formation, purpose, and belonging. These are the very things that happen naturally at school: learning alongside peers, being supported by teachers, and taking part in the life of the College
When students are away, they miss more than lessons They miss conversations, shared experiences, friendships, and small moments that help shape who they are becoming While an occasional day off might not seem like much, absences can add up quickly across a term or year
As a College, we want to partner with families to build strong attendance habits from the early years onward We understand that illness and exceptional circumstances do happen But wherever possible, we encourage students to attend every day, arrive on time, and take part in all that College life offers
Every school day is an opportunity for students to learn, connect, grow, and flourish, because every student matters, and every day matters
Jo Westland Director of Student Culture & Development
POLICIES
Anaphylaxis Management
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 Since that time, 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. 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 on the child safety page
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 Mrs 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 Mrs 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
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 Statebased 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
WELLBEING TEAM
Head of Student Wellbeing
Heather Cootee
hcootee@ncc vic edu au
Jared Stocks
Chaplain jstocks@ncc vic edu au
Chelsea Weeks Student Wellbeing cweeks@ncc vic edu au
ENROLMENTS
Prep 2028
Applications for Prep 2028 are now open
Families with a child born between 1st January 2022 to 30th April 2023 are invited to apply for Prep 2028 enrolment online Applications will close on Friday 19th February 2027
Please note that applications for Prep 2027 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 2027 must advise the College as soon as possible Families who withdraw late in 2026 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
Families that are leaving during 2026 should immediately contact the College.
Alumni
Join the Northside Alumni by completing the online form to be notified of upcoming events
UNIFORM REMINDER
Wardrobe Suite Introduced from Term 2
The College will adopt a Wardrobe Suite model for uniforms across Prep to Year 12.
The approach moves away from the traditional summer and winter uniform structure, allowing students the flexibility to choose the uniform that best suits their personal preferences
Under the Wardrobe Suite approach, students may wear approved uniform items in combinations that best suits the weather and their individual comfort
For more information, please refer to the Guidelines here
Where to Purchase Uniforms
College families can purchase new uniforms from Academy Uniforms
Second-hand uniforms may be bought and sold via the Facebook group
“Northside Christian College - Second Hand Uniform & Textbooks - Buy & Sell” . All sales from the Facebook group are between the buyer and seller.
Uniform Logo Reminder
Students should only wear uniforms that bear the 2016 logo and/or the 2022 logo (see below). This includes school bags for Primary and Secondary students
From Term 1 2028: all Primary and Secondary students may only wear uniforms that bear the 2022 logo. This excludes the school bag and hat for Primary 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
THIS LOGO CAN NO LONGER BE WORN
2016 College Logo
From 2026, uniforms with this logo can no longer be worn. 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
2013 College Logo
2022 College Logo
From 2029, all students must only wear the College uniform with this logo All previous logos will no longer be permitted
FINANCE TEAM
If you need to contact our Finance Team, you will likely speak to one of our the following staff:
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, Instagram or LinkedIn
Instagram If you ’ re on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn, please follow the Northside Christian College pages
Bee Yew Assistant School Burser
Suni Harun Accounts Office
Jasmine Chan Accounts Office
Tax Deductible Donations to the School Building Fund
A reminder that the Northside Christian College School Building Fund is open to tax-deductible donations
These funds will greatly benefit Northside, enabling the provision of quality education to current and future students, as well as benefiting the donor with a tax deduction
School Building Fund donations may be used for the following:
Capital improvements and refurbishments
Repairs, painting, plumbing and general maitenance
Replacing floor overings
Heater/Cooler repairs and/or replacement
Cleaning a school building
Building insurance
Security costs
All contributions to the Building Fund are tax deductible and will be gratefully accepted Donations can be made through our Finance Office between 9:00am-3:30pm Monday to Friday
For further information on donating funds, please contact the office on 9467 2499
