The Life Issue #2, 2021

St Philip’s Christian College Newcastle

The Life A Monthly Community Magazine

ISSUE #2 APRIL 2021

SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Australian Champions

Students from Team Trident, our Australian

a professional prospectus and sought out the

National Champion team from the 2020 Subs in

sponsorship of local businesses in order to purchase

Schools STEM competition were acknowledged

the necessary submarine components.

during the final Senior School Assembly of Term 1. Their stellar rise to prominence was recognised

This team had to overcome many obstacles to address

through the presentation of medals, 8 Major

competition requirements, maintaining progress

Category Awards and 6 National Trophies. The

during Covid-19 lockdowns, managing delays in the

team, all Year 12 students, consisted of Jack Fraser

supply of parts, and several amendments to the judging

(Team Manager), Angus Clayton (Design Engineer),

criteria. Each student in the team demonstrated

Oliver Taylor (Manufacturing Engineer), Edward

resilience, perseverance and a champion effort, that

Andrews (Resource Manager) and Anita Gorton

eventually resulted in their much deserved success as

(Graphic Designer), along with William Pennell

National Champions.

(Team Coach) and Max Daniels (Financial Support person). The presentation of the national trophies

Mr Bonzo

STEM Lead Educator And so, our sub9-12 took shape.

was punctuated by numerous rounds of applause

from the student body, as everyone celebrated the achievements of these amazing young engineers.

As part of the Subs in Schools competition, Team Trident were required to construct a one meter long remote controlled competition submarine, and successfully navigate an underwater obstacle course.

They also had to prepare supporting

documentation, including several pre-recorded video presentations, a virtual reality “fly-through” of their Trade Display, and several engineering portfolios.

In addition, Team Trident created 2

SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

We called upon some professional expertise from our industry partner The BlueZone Group.

Cover

Technical graphics begin

the design process.

And so the designing began…

Technical Graphics

We called upon some expertise from Theprofessional team begin to build their sub. our industry partner The BlueZone Group.

The team engaged professional expertise from industry partner, The BlueZone Group.

ained sponsorship from HCB Solar, 3ME, and Hunter H20.

Team Trident brought home the Australian Champions Trophy from the Subs in Schools Australian National Final.

Major National Awards won by Team Trident Best Sea Trial Award Best Engineered Award Best Manufactured Submarine Award Best Team Portfolio Award The team gained sponsorshop from Mission Accomplished!

HCB Solar, 3ME, and Hunter H20.

AIPM: Best Managed Enterprise Award Best Team Marketing Award Best Team Trade Display Award Outstanding Industry Collaboration Award

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The SPCC SENIOR SCHOOL SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

production of

24-26 june 2021

civic theatre newcastle

Based on a Disney Channel Original Movie Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia).

All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia

Tickets $19-32*

/spccmusicals

civictheatrenewcastle.com.au *Fees and charges may apply

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@spccmusicals

SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Online Easter Service Featuring the SPCC Choir Smith. This was the first time that all 140 students had come together, and watching them hear their recording for the first time was truly delightful. There were smiles, excited nudges and giggles, faces of wide-eyed wonder, and even some tears (yes – guilty as charged)!

During Term 1 this year, I had the privilege of being part of the production team for a choir music video that was recorded and filmed for the College Easter Service at the end of term. When the music video was first proposed, COVID restrictions had just eased, and after almost a year of very limited choir rehearsals, the students were excited and enthusiastic to not only be singing together again, but to have such a significant mission to work towards.

The project involved our three College Choirs (Junior, Middle and Senior) and included approximately 140 students, which is just over 10% of the total student body. Students had about 4 weeks to learn and memorise the song, and it was wonderful to witness the excitement and buzz at each of the weekly choir rehearsals. I had many reports from parents saying that their child had not stopped singing the song at home, and that they just couldn’t wait to get back to choir rehearsal the following week to sing it again!

As we used an original song that had not been previously recorded, we needed to commission the production of a backing track. This required around 30 hours of recording, editing and mastering behind the scenes, and I am extremely grateful to Phil Tweed and Luke O’Dea for their time, creativity and expertise in bringing this about.

Once the backing track and rehearsal process was complete, the next step was the audio recording, which involved a full day with audio engineer, Luke O’Dea, who recorded the students in groups of 8 at a time. Once again, the student buzz was exciting to experience. One junior chorister was thrilled to be able to record like a “true professional”, and many students throughout the day expressed their gratitude at being able to be involved.

The filming session at the SPCC Church Hall was the final step for the students involved, conducted under the visual direction of Caleb 5

It took around 2 hours to complete the filming session, with almost 20 takes of the song (or sections of the song) to ensure we had the right shots, angles, faces, groups and lighting. This required a great deal of focus, self-control and positivity, and I was so proud of how the students rose to the occasion.

The last step in the production process – the least seen, but perhaps most important – was the finalisation of the audio and video. Countless hours of editing, mastering, cutting, mixing, tweaking, listening and watching from Luke (audio) and Caleb (video) in their areas of specialty, helped our students come alive.

The final product is 4 minutes long: 4 minutes of music, vision, joy and enrichment, but it represents so much more. It represents a community of students, staff and creative professionals, committed to giving hours of their time and talent. It also represents a large group of people coming together to achieve a significant end goal, which is something that always builds community – drawing people closer together, and closer to the God we serve.

Lindy Connett Director of Music (K-12)

SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

International Women’s Day On any given day, you can walk around St Philip’s

March, provided the perfect opportunity to honour

Christian College Newcastle and witness the many

and empower the amazing girls and women of St

inspirational female students, teachers and leaders.

Philip’s Christian College Newcastle.

Many female members of staff hold significant leadership positions within the College, all of whom

The SPCC International Women’s Day project

are led by our gracious Principal, Mrs Pam O’Dea.

commenced about a month ago, facilitated by a team

The girls who form part of our student body are also

of passionate staff with the common goal of creating

capable and confident; talented athletes, musicians,

an opportunity to empower and celebrate the girls

performers, and academics, all of whom should be

of SPCC. Collectively, the team worked to develop

celebrated for their individual God-given talents.

the following vision which clearly articulated why celebrating International Women’s Day is important

In our society and beyond, we recognise that there

within our school context.

are many women and girls who struggle to embrace who God created them to be. They are faced with

So, what did this vision look like in action on Monday

societal pressures to look and act in a particular way,

8th March? Several events took place across the

and if unable to “measure up”, may experience a

College. In Junior School, the girls enjoyed a fun

sense of failure and isolation. Therefore, International

filled picnic and shared about the women in their

Women’s Day, which took place on Monday 8th

lives who have influenced them. Middle School and

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

We believe: All girls are loved and valued because they are created in God’s image.

All girls deserve to be respected, honoured and empowered.

All girls can lead and influence others.

Senior School girls were blessed by a musical performance by Mrs Harris, Mrs Connett and Cassandra Fayers, as well as being encouraged by our guest speaker, Rianna Bingham, a local business owner and inspirational Christian woman. While this was taking place, our SPCC boys discussed ways in which they can respect, honour and celebrate the women in their lives, such as their mothers, sisters or future wives.

Whilst International Women’s Day is one day on the calendar set aside to celebrate women across the globe, the desire is that the messages students take away from this day last longer than 24 hours, and that as a College, we can continue to nurture young women, who know that they are loved and valued because they are created in God’s image.

Rebecca Parkhouse Senior Teacher (English)

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 8 Medieval Museum As part of our Medieval Europe unit, Year 8 researched and created the most incredible artefacts from this time period. Students were given the brief to create an authentic adaption over the past month, many using this opportunity to engage with construction tools as well as artistic design. The calibre of these creations was exceptional and their connection to what they had studied was inspired.

We are extremely proud of the efforts of the Year 8 students this year and their engagement with all aspects of this task. A big thankyou to all the parents and grandparents who lent a hand in some of these reproductions.

From the Year 8 Humanities Team

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 3 & 4 Camps Wow what a blast! Our camping experience at Cru Camp, Lake Mac was brilliant. Over the course of three days in March, children from Year 3 and 4 had an awesome time participating in activities that stretched and challenged them. Some of the amazing activities the children experienced were: kite making, orienteering, damper cooking, archery, rock climbing and fun water activities like sailing and canoeing.

The new facilities were incredible with tremendous playing fields and a massive dining hall where we got to enjoy delicious food in abundance; salad, hamburgers, pancakes, ice-cream cake and lots of other yummy food. We were totally spoilt and relished in having seconds whenever possible.

Our accommodation was brilliant. We got to sleep in dormitories with three bunk beds in each and we even had our very own bathroom.

Totally pampered!

After an adventure packed camping experience we arrived back at school, weary, but super excited about all we had accomplished.

The teachers want to thank each student for their wonderful behaviour and determination to try new things. So many students have indicated their excitement to try other Cru camps and are also looking forward to future camping experiences.

Well done Year 3 and 4 for a such a great time.

Mrs Heather Nixon Assistant Head of Junior School

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 5 Camp For our students in Year 5, the looming rain clouds had little impact on the excitement of heading to Sydney for a three day camping experience. The camp activities were closely aligned to the investigations undertaken in the Australian History unit, exploring life in the colonies.

Our students displayed curiosity and a willingness to explore the familiar location of Sydney in a new way to build their understanding of life in the past. Be it walking through the Rocks precinct, encountering the belongings and artefacts preserved at Rouse Hill Estate or being immersed in the real life events of others at the Justice and Police museum, our Year 5 students received consistent positive feedback on the level of insight in their responses.

Enduring the heavy rain, our students displayed resilience and positivity throughout the three days. The teachers were encouraged by the readiness of all students to join in. Although, we were never short of a willing volunteer during the nightly games; particularly for the Oreo challenge on the first night!

It was a marvellous adventure for our students and an excellent opportunity to strengthen our relationships with each other.

Belinda Nichols Director of Studies K-6

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 9 Camp Year 9 students attended camp from the 1st - 3rd March 2021.

Student Reflection: Angus Jewell As Year 9 set off with painful memories of last year’s very wet and muddy hiking trip, we were all in need of an uplifting experience at this year’s camp at Galston Gorge, and let me just say, it delivered!

The first day was a blast as we eliminated our opponents in a game of outdoor laser tag, took a scenic bush walk, then cooled off in the refreshing pool. The day ended with an attempt to solve a murder mystery, as we interrogated our fellow camp leaders. Day 2, was full of surprises as we scaled the gigantic rock-climbing walls, each climb providing a new challenge and forcing us out of our comfort zone. Our awesome camp finished with an inspiring message on God’s love and grace for all. Thanks to all the teachers and leaders who made this camp so memorable.

Student Reflection: Emily Vazquez After we were unable to go on the sailing trip last year, we were very blessed to be able to go on camp this year and make up for lost experiences. Although the first day was boiling, that didn’t put anyone off giving all the activities their best, and I definitely saw some teachers getting maybe too invested in laser tag. The first night brought a murder mystery to camp, and we got into groups to discover who it was. Day two, we began discussion groups talking about who God is to us, and it was nothing short of enlightening, everyone getting engaged and asking questions. The third day, everyone got involved in playing games on the field, the rain holding off until we got onto the buses.

Throughout camp, both the food and gaga ball were big hits and everyone left camp with a smile.

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Student Reflection: Emily Ashton Camp 2021 for Year 9 was a symbol of connectedness and community. It was a perfect opportunity to go into Senior School with new friendships and mindsets; a chance to rethink our past selves and mature further into the young adults we are. The three-day camp consisted of a range of activities our year participated in, from physically challenging options such as high and low ropes, to mentally growing activities, where we reflected on our personal journey with ourselves and others. Our relationships grew with our fellow peers and our teachers, kicking us off with a stronger support system for the year to come.

That was something I especially enjoyed and I’m sure the rest of Year 9 did as well. All round, it definitely made up for the losses we experienced in 2020 and gave us a clear vision of the fun 2021 has in store for us.

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 10 Camp Student Reflection: Joshua Burke Our Year 10 camp started at Broadmeadow station.

We were given our Opal cards and I found my group with a warm welcome. Mr Cooper was the leader of us, Group 4. The train arrived with a wave of awe, as is the excitement for first experiences.

We stayed at the Travel Lodge, in the heart of Sydney, within walking distance to most of our destinations. My favourite activities consisted of: The escape room, the cruise and Jet Boating.

The escape room was an exciting experience which I will always be grateful for. I was in a group of 5 attempting the second hardest room, the bank heist. The bank heist contained a total of 4 main challenges, with problems and clues along the way. It took us a total of an hour and a quarter, where each problem solved led to a fresh sense of completion and excitement. drops like icicles tickling your skin, the grin on my face

In the evening, we walked 30 minutes to Darling

couldn’t be wiped off.

Harbour to go on a cruise. Dressed formally, our group reached the boat sweaty and tired, quickly

I was extremely fortunate to have had the privilege

relieved by the cool drinks onboard. The cruise

of experiencing this camp, especially since last year

included: fine dining; socialising; breathtaking

we were not able to. This camp exposed us to real

night lights and music. These factors combined,

life skills, such as the responsibility of our money. I

made a night to remember.

would like to thank the teachers who were involved in organising this event, especially Mr Cooper. I found

To be honest, I was the least excited for Jet Boating.

it an eye-opener to get to know him in a personal

Not until I experienced the joy of the experience,

way. This fostered my realisation that the interaction

did I truly understand how wrong I was. We arrived

between different generations are quite healthy and

at the boat platform 30 minutes early, where my

should be done more. All in all, I enjoyed my time

mood didn’t entertain the combination of hunger

away tremendously, and because of skills I learned at

and dampness. We put on overalls that were like

camp, I believe I’m better equipped for life.

huge dressing gowns, and soon found ourselves in the jet boat. This experience can’t be fully described. A feeling of unrestricted joy, adrenaline coursing through your body and music pumping with friends beside you. Add the element of rushing wind rippling through your body, and rain

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Student Reflection: Mackenzie McDermott Week 7 was an exciting time for us Year 10s, as we finally embarked on our adventure in Sydney. Enjoying the three action-packed days of camp, the Year 10 cohort enjoyed activities such as the sea-life aquarium, oz jet boating, the Manly bike tours, and different levels of escape rooms etc.

As well as this, students enjoyed the cruise, and a sit-down restaurant dinner during night-fall. Witnessing the sunset behind the Sydney Harbour Bridge, made our first night at camp (on the boat), highly memorable and magical.

As mentioned above, one of the activities I experienced was the Manly bike tours. From my perspective, I would call it one of the most extraordinary days ever. Whilst unexpected, the weather changed almost instantly from muggy to wet. As the many drops of water tickled down everyone’s helmets and skin, we realised that this moment was unforgettable. Who wouldn’t want to be on a rental bike, in pouring rain, with friends that could last a life time? It was a rush of adrenaline as pedestrians crawled back to their car, and we stayed there, with the path to ourselves, as we screamed and shouted because we could. We skidded our shoes through puddles and watched the waves of water sprout up and splash the person next to you. My smile grew increasingly, and I would do it all again in an instant.

This really was an amazing experience for not just me, but everyone on the trip. The 11 students in my group got along famously towards the end, with plenty of conversation and always a good laugh. As a new student, I thought this was really an incredible experience, as I have never done anything like this before. I made some amazing new mates and strengthened the friendships I’d already made. The camp enabled us to learn of real-life experiences, about collaboration, finance, and organisation.

Special mention must go to Mr Cooper and the accompanying teachers, who gave generously of their time and energy to make the Year 10 camp occur.

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 11 SmartTrack Camp

Last week, Year 11 SmartTrack students attended the first ever SmartTrack camp at Tahlee on the shores of the Karuah River. This camp was an incredible time of fellowship, adventure and challenge, with activities including hiking, kayaking, swimming, fishing and more. Students were responsible for setting up their own campsites, cooking their own meals, and through times of reflection and discussion, strengthened their relationships with each other and with their SmartTrack teachers and coaches.

Congratulations to the Year 11 SmartTrack students who all rose to the challenge, demonstrated amazing team work and laid an excellent foundation for the SmartTrack journey they have ahead of them.

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 12 Construction Project

Year 12 Construction students were provided the opportunity to improve a much needed storage area in Junior School where sports equipment is kept for P.E. lessons. The students needed to work together to remove gravel and dirt to a required level, then use a laser level to transfer a “finish height” for concrete. Concrete was then transported using wheelbarrows, poured in place, and then finished to a non-slip surface.

This space will now provide a safe area for both staff and equipment.

The Construction students enjoyed the process and the opportunity to Collaborate and Build Community.

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 5 & 6 Big Vegie Crunch Only 5% of NSW children eat enough vegetables. We’re on a mission to change that statistic, by increasing children’s knowledge, exposure and positive attitudes towards vegetables.

This Tuesday, students in Year 5 and 6 participated in ‘The Big Vegie Crunch’, along with approximately 9000 students across the State.

‘The Big Vegie Crunch’ is an attempt by NSW primary school students to break the record for the highest number of children eating vegetables simultaneously – and to get kids excited about vegetables!

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Clean Up Australia Day

Friday March 5 was Clean-up Australia Day for schools with the theme, “Step-up to Clean-up”. At 2:15pm, nearly 500 Middle School Students and staff spent 15 minutes cleaning up our school site. We had classes in each outdoor area of the school. We want our students to acknowledge that even if the rubbish isn’t ours personally, it is our school and something we care about and take pride in. We will continue to encourage and explore environmentally conscious initiatives within our school and community.

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

K-2 Water Fun Day

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SPCC Newcastle Community Magazine Issue #2

Year 7 Digital Fun Days Recently, Year 7 participated in 2 Digital Fun Days presented by the TAS faculty. These interactive days were designed for students to participate in fun, engaging and practical coding activities, while working in groups. The days support and complement the delivery of the Stage 4 Technology (Mandatory) syllabus.

These days also provided opportunities for our Year 7 students to meet and interact with new people in their year group and participate in team building activities.

During the Digital Fun Days, students learned about algorithms, writing code and had opportunities to design their own code using Micro:Bit to control Bit:Bots, and Glowbits.

The TAS faculty loved having the opportunity to build community with our Year 7 students through these interactive days. Special thanks to our alumni students from University of Newcastle and SPCC Senior School students who were mentors and group facilitators on both days.

FEEDBACK FROM STUDENTS “My favourite part of the Digital Fun Days was the Glowbit” - Subhadra S “My favourite part of the digital fun days was helping others with the Micro:Bit, Grok Learning and the Bit:Bots” - Samuel S “My favourite part of the digital fun day was learning how to program the Bit Bots, and using my imagination” - Madison B

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Evel intio cum re quia quidese perferu ptaspit eseque qui.

St Philip’s Christian College, Newcastle 57 High Street WARATAH NSW 2298 Ph: +61 2 4960 6600 Fax: +61 2 4960 6690 Email: newcastle@spcc.nsw.edu.au

Leaders in Whole of Life Education