N E W S L E T T E R

G l o r y T o G o d

Number 1 - 8th February 2013

2 St Andrews Christian College Newsletter

FROM THE PRINCIPAL NOTICES

Dear Friends, Welcome to the first newsletter for 2013. This year our theme is “Celebrating God, Celebrating 30 years at St Andrews Christian College” and our biblical focus is from Philippians 4:4: Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say: Rejoice! Communication with each other is one of the keys to a successful education for your child. Please keep Reception Staff up to date with your email address, home address and phone number (home and mobile). This enables us to communicate with you about College events, your child’s progress and to quickly contact you in the event of an emergency. The newsletter will be emailed to families once-a-fortnight (on Fridays) in PDF format. If you prefer to receive the newsletter in hard copy, please collect one from Reception. We will endeavour to do a hard copy of the newsletter for all families once-a-term.

People today are searching for purpose and meaning in life, happiness and contentment. Many try and find contentment through sports, drugs, alcohol, shopping, adrenalin activities, career, friends and money. These things can bring purpose and happiness, but they only provide a temporary ‘fix’ of our condition and in our searching. Contentment isn’t something you acquire when you arrive at a particular destination, it is something you practice every day, in your life, even when life is not going according to plan. In Philippians, Paul stated that whatever state he was in, he learnt to be content. Contentment with his ‘lot’ in the good and bad. Only God can give us true contentment, peace, purpose and hope. The ways of the world are temporary, His ways are eternal. Christian education has a Kingdom perspective that educates for eternity. It integrates our faith and life journey so that children learn from a biblical viewpoint – BIBLICALLY BASED, ETERNALLY FOCUSED.

Of course the cartoon is just a bit of fun, but it provides a segue to talk about CLASS. Our constant drive as educators is to improve what we do so that our students and our classes are thriving and growing in all ways (spiritually, cognitively, socially, emotionally, physically and creatively). At St Andrews Christian College our focus is on the CLASS:

Christ Focus Learning and Teaching Excellence All Rounded Education Student Leadership Safe & Caring Environment

We look forward to partnering with you in the education of your child, so that they can grow up knowing, loving and serving God in their life. Many blessings on your year. May it be a wonderful year celebrating God and rejoicing in His goodness. Yours for the Kingdom,

Catriona Wansbrough

THANK YOU Well done to Rachel Woon, Clarice Woon, Rachael Siew, James Siew, Jedid She and Hesed She for their busking efforts in the school holidays. They raised over $700 for their efforts and

generously donated $400 to St Andrews Christian College. Thank you musicians!! Thank you to all the families who generously donated to the Knox “Share the joy” Christmas Appeal, 2012.

2013 Morning Bus Service As advised during Term 4 last year, the bus service provided by Australiner will be limited to a morning service coming down High Street Road. The service will commence at Stephensons Road, Mt Waverley.

The pick up points will be: 8.17am Bus Stop in High Street Road, east of Stephensons Road. 8.20am Bus Stop outside Flatman’s Hardware, 601 High Street Road, Mt Waverley

Australiner has indicated that the approximate cost would be $200 (+GST) per term, depending on the numbers who will use the service. Accounts will be issued by Australiner.

Please contact Australiner to advise if you will be using the service: Phone – 9543 1222 Email - australiner@bigpond.com Darren Waterworth - Business Manager

No parking at Foodstar Parents are not to park across the road at FOODSTAR. The parking area is only there for patrons of the FOODSTAR restaurant.

88% of our student population come to school by car and hence we have a lot of congestion in traffic before and after school.

Have you considered car-pooling with friends, walking or bike-riding to school as a family?

Will Your Child Walk To School? Sunday Herald Sun , February 3, 2013

Government and health organisations are urging parents to ditch the car and make the school run on foot… a recent study found that less than half of kids who live within a 15-minute walk of their school actually use their feet to walk any further than from the school gate, where they are dropped. The Deakin University study also found that, despite this, a vast majority of kids would prefer to walk. Read the complete article at http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/parenting+pregnancy/expert+opinion/will+your+child+walk+to+schoolr,21918

Playground Before and After School Parents, please note that no children are to play on the playground equipment or to be in the playground area next to the Year 1 classrooms before and after school. This area is out-of-bounds as there is no staff member on duty there to supervise. Please ensure your children don’t play in this area. Tim Farmilo - Deputy Principal

Prayer Group The St Andrews Prayer Group invites all parents to come along and join in prayer, with other parents, for the needs of the St Andrews school community. Meetings are held once a week on:

Fridays 8:45am (after school drop off)

Mrs Suzy Song and Mr/s Shaun and Cara Beovich are available as contact persons.

Prayer will be held in the Meeting room next to the Reception area. It is a great opportunity to join in fellowship with other parents.

For specific prayer requests , there is a prayer box at the front reception desk for you to put your request in if you are unable to join us. Suzy Song - Purchasing Officer

NOTICES Diary Dates

February

Mon 11 Dedication Service 9am*

Tue 12 VCE Basketball

Tue 12 New Parent Information Session 2:30pm*

Wed 13 Swimming Carnival Yr7-12*

Wed 13 School Band Rehearsal 1-2pm

Thu 14 Percussion Band Rehearsal 1-2pm

Thu 14 Senior School Information Night

7:30pm*

Fri 15 Parents Prayer Meeting 8:45am*

Fri 15 School Tour 11:30am

Fri 15 Yr4-6 Interschool Swimming Carnival*

Fri 15 CSA Principals’ Day– Rembrandts

Mon 18 Whole School Assembly 8:55am*

Mon 18-20 Yr7 Camp - Forest Edge

Tue 19-22 VCE Camp

Tue 19 PFA General Meeting 7:30pm*

Wed 20 School Band Rehearsal 1-2pm

Thu 21 Percussion Band Rehearsal 1-2pm

Thu 21 Yr9 and 10 Volleyball

Thu 21-22 CSA Introduction Seminar - New

Teachers

Fri 22 Parents Prayer Meeting 8:45am*

Mon 25 Whole School Assembly 8:55am*

Mon 25 Brad Huddleston Week

Tue 26-1 Duke Of Edinburgh Award Expedition

March

Sat 2 PFA Family Picnic 4:30pm- 7:30pm*

*parents welcome to attend

2013 Term Dates

Dear Friends, Welcome to the first newsletter for 2013. This year our theme is “Celebrating God, Celebrating 30 years at St Andrews Christian College” and our biblical focus is from Philippians 4:4: Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say: Rejoice! Communication with each other is one of the keys to a successful education for your child. Please keep Reception Staff up to date with your email address, home address and phone number (home and mobile). This enables us to communicate with you about College events, your child’s progress and to quickly contact you in the event of an emergency. The newsletter will be emailed to families once-a-fortnight (on Fridays) in PDF format. If you prefer to receive the newsletter in hard copy, please collect one from Reception. We will endeavour to do a hard copy of the newsletter for all families once-a-term.

People today are searching for purpose and meaning in life, happiness and contentment. Many try and find contentment through sports, drugs, alcohol, shopping, adrenalin activities, career, friends and money. These things can bring purpose and happiness, but they only provide a temporary ‘fix’ of our condition and in our searching. Contentment isn’t something you acquire when you arrive at a particular destination, it is something you practice every day, in your life, even when life is not going according to plan. In Philippians, Paul stated that whatever state he was in, he learnt to be content. Contentment with his ‘lot’ in the good and bad. Only God can give us true contentment, peace, purpose and hope. The ways of the world are temporary, His ways are eternal. Christian education has a Kingdom perspective that educates for eternity. It integrates our faith and life journey so that children learn from a biblical viewpoint – BIBLICALLY BASED, ETERNALLY FOCUSED.

Of course the cartoon is just a bit of fun, but it provides a segue to talk about CLASS. Our constant drive as educators is to improve what we do so that our students and our classes are thriving and growing in all ways (spiritually, cognitively, socially, emotionally, physically and creatively). At St Andrews Christian College our focus is on the CLASS:

Christ Focus Learning and Teaching Excellence All Rounded Education Student Leadership Safe & Caring Environment

We look forward to partnering with you in the education of your child, so that they can grow up knowing, loving and serving God in their life. Many blessings on your year. May it be a wonderful year celebrating God and rejoicing in His goodness. Yours for the Kingdom,

Catriona Wansbrough

THANK YOU Well done to Rachel Woon, Clarice Woon, Rachael Siew, James Siew, Jedid She and Hesed She for their busking efforts in the school holidays. They raised over $700 for their efforts and

generously donated $400 to St Andrews Christian College. Thank you musicians!! Thank you to all the families who generously donated to the Knox “Share the joy” Christmas Appeal, 2012.

2013 Morning Bus Service As advised during Term 4 last year, the bus service provided by Australiner will be limited to a morning service coming down High Street Road. The service will commence at Stephensons Road, Mt Waverley.

The pick up points will be: 8.17am Bus Stop in High Street Road, east of Stephensons Road. 8.20am Bus Stop outside Flatman’s Hardware, 601 High Street Road, Mt Waverley

Australiner has indicated that the approximate cost would be $200 (+GST) per term, depending on the numbers who will use the service. Accounts will be issued by Australiner.

Please contact Australiner to advise if you will be using the service: Phone – 9543 1222 Email - australiner@bigpond.com Darren Waterworth - Business Manager

No parking at Foodstar Parents are not to park across the road at FOODSTAR. The parking area is only there for patrons of the FOODSTAR restaurant.

88% of our student population come to school by car and hence we have a lot of congestion in traffic before and after school.

Have you considered car-pooling with friends, walking or bike-riding to school as a family?

Will Your Child Walk To School? Sunday Herald Sun , February 3, 2013

Government and health organisations are urging parents to ditch the car and make the school run on foot… a recent study found that less than half of kids who live within a 15-minute walk of their school actually use their feet to walk any further than from the school gate, where they are dropped. The Deakin University study also found that, despite this, a vast majority of kids would prefer to walk. Read the complete article at http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/parenting+pregnancy/expert+opinion/will+your+child+walk+to+schoolr,21918

Playground Before and After School Parents, please note that no children are to play on the playground equipment or to be in the playground area next to the Year 1 classrooms before and after school. This area is out-of-bounds as there is no staff member on duty there to supervise. Please ensure your children don’t play in this area. Tim Farmilo - Deputy Principal

Prayer Group The St Andrews Prayer Group invites all parents to come along and join in prayer, with other parents, for the needs of the St Andrews school community. Meetings are held once a week on:

Fridays 8:45am (after school drop off)

Mrs Suzy Song and Mr/s Shaun and Cara Beovich are available as contact persons.

Prayer will be held in the Meeting room next to the Reception area. It is a great opportunity to join in fellowship with other parents.

For specific prayer requests , there is a prayer box at the front reception desk for you to put your request in if you are unable to join us. Suzy Song - Purchasing Officer

NOTICES PARENTS & FRIENDS ASSOCIATION

4 St Andrews Christian College Newsletter

Education Maintenance Allowance The EMA continues to help families on lower incomes with financial assistance to cover the cost of educational expenses including textbooks, stationery, uniforms and excursions for their child up until the age of 16.

Parents who are already receiving EMA for their child/ren, please go to http://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/school/principals/finance/emaformap.pdf for an application form and to read more about some of the changes to the EMA and School Start Bonus for 2013.

EMA application forms must be submitted to the school by 28 February 2013. Please note: Late applications cannot be processed.

Waiting Lists For Prep 2014 and 2015 Our placement lists are getting full for future year levels (especially Prep in 2014 & 2015 and Year 7 intakes). This means that all sibling applications will need to be processed as soon as possible. If there are any families that have younger siblings who have not applied for a position at St Andrews, it is strongly recommended that these families apply as soon as possible to ensure a place for child/ren in future year levels. If sibling applications are received late e.g. one or two years before commencement, there is no guarantee that a place will be available for your child. Please download an application form from http://standrews.vic.edu.au/assets/files/Application%20for%20Enrolment_Aus_Res.pdf and be sure to apply for enrolment of all family members as soon as possible. Melanie Lepileo - Registrar

Library Thanks and Help Requested A BIG thank you to those parents who have covered TEXTBOOKS recently for us! We appreciate this and so do our students.

We now have around 10 boxes of new Library books that need covering over the next few weeks. These are not urgent but can be done over a week or so if you like. Please send an email, phone us, or pop along and pick up some covering if you'd like to do some of your parent hours for 2013.

Our shelving roster for Term 1 is now full but if you want to get in early for Terms 2 or 3 we're happy to take your name and number.

We thank you for your willing assistance in our library. Lynne Marks and Library staff

Join the Gardening Green Team As we have developed a number of garden areas around the College we now need to maintain these areas with regular watering, weeding and other interesting gardening activities. We would like to invite you to join the College Gardening Green Team, who will assist Mr Landman (Grounds & Maintenance Manager) in maintaining and developing the gardens around the College. It is hoped that a team of

parents would be able to spend a few afternoons each term working together around the College with a focus on the garden areas. The work undertaken by the team will be very beneficial to the College and is another way of working off Parent Participation hours. Please email Mr Landman rlandman@standrews.vic.edu.au or leave your name at the office to indicate your interest in the Gardening Green Team.

Go Green! Go Team! Darren Waterworth - Business Manager

Important Coming events Mon 11th Feb: St Andrews Christian College Dedication Service 9:00am – 10:00am in Rembrandts, where we dedicate the College year to the Lord. All parents are welcome. Wed 13th Feb: Year 7 – 12 Swimming Carnival at Knox Leisureworks Thurs 14th Feb: Senior School (Year 9 – 12) Information Night in Rembrandts Fri 15th Feb: CEN/CSA Combined Principals’ meeting for all Principals in Victoria at St Andrews Christian College (FYI only) Mon 18th – Wed 20th Feb: Year 7 Camp at Forest Edge Tuesday 19th Feb: PFA Meeting @ 7:30pm Tues 19th – Fri 22nd Feb: VCE Camp Mon 25th Feb – Fri 8th March: Residential speaker, evangelist, author and media producer, – BRAD HUDDLESTON @ ST ANDREWS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

Family Picnic - Sat 2nd March The PFA Family Picnic is on Saturday 2nd March starting at 4:30pm. All families are invited to attend as we gather around our new BBQ and picnic area. This will be a great way to start off the year ‘Celebrating God, Celebrating 30 Years!’ as the whole school community comes together to enjoy an old fashioned picnic and games. There will be more information in the next newsletter. Lesley Goh is coordinating this event. A planning meeting will be held on Tuesday 12th Feb 2:20pm at Rembrandts. Any parents interested in helping are welcome to attend.

Treasurer Wanted We are still on the lookout for a parent to take on the Treasurer’s position this year. Ideally we require someone who can look after the PFA account and do basic financial reporting but also be available some days to do banking and help with floats/counting when required. If you are interested please contact pfa@standrews.vic.edu.au

2013 Committee The Committee members for 2013 are:

President: Shaun Beovich Vice President: Lesley Goh Treasurer (Acting): Annie Yew Secretary: Elisa O’Donnell

Woolworths Earn & Learn About 9 boxes of goods have arrived from the Earn and Learn fundraiser we participated in last year. These resources are earmarked for the Tata school in Vanuatu.

The Athlete’s Foot School Rewards This program is continuing throughout 2013. When you purchase a pair of shoes in one of their 6 stores (Knox City, Forest Hill, Eastland, The Glen, Chadstone or Southland), the Athlete’s Foot will donate $5 of sporting equipment back to the school. Remember to mention St Andrews!

St Andrews Run 4 Fun Back by popular demand is the Fun Run in Term 2 on Friday 26th April. This will be our major fundraiser for the year. To maximise profits for the school the PFA will be running the event ourselves. To accomplish this we will require the help of many parents. Annie Yew is coordinating the Fun Run and has scheduled a planning meeting on Friday 22nd Feb at 9am in Rembrandts. Parents are encouraged to attend. We are also on the lookout for businesses/parents to sponsor some prizes for the Fun Run.

If you can help with sponsorship please email the PFA at pfa@standrews.vic.edu.au

Next PFA meeting - Tues 19th Feb All parents are members of the PFA and are welcome to come along to meetings to contribute. At meetings we find out more about what is happening in the school through the Principal, Mrs Wansbrough. We also report on and start planning the various community and fundraising events that the PFA run. Our first meeting of the year is on Tuesday 19th February at 7:30pm in the school staffroom. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Term 1 PFA Events General Meeting - Tuesday 19th Feb 7:30pm

Family Picnic - Saturday 2nd March 4:30pm

General Meeting - Wednesday 20th March 9am

PFA Noticeboard The PFA noticeboard is located on the south wall of the Science/Art building next to the flag pole. There is also one located outside the computer room in the Senior School.

PFA Emails If you are not receiving PFA emails by now and would like to keep up to date with events/volunteer opportunities in the school please email pfa@standrews.vic.edu.au and you’ll be added to the PFA email distribution list.

Parent Participation Hours For new parents to the school a reminder that there is a minimum of 2 hours of parent participation required per term to avoid extra fees. There is a folder in the office where you can sign off any time you spend volunteering in the school. Eg: Library, art and classroom help, PFA committee or parent reps, duties at PFA events, school excursions etc.

ADVANCED NOTICE

Wednesday 6th March @ 7:30pm in Rembrandts

BRAD HUDDLESTON Author/Speaker/Media Producer

Will speak on how to use technology positively and in a way that glorifies God.

Issues will include cybersafety and cyberbullying.

All parents and teachers welcome.

GOLD COIN DONATION

This event is also open to the general public.

Our new BBQ has a multitude of uses!

St Andrews Christian College Newsletter 5

PARENTS & FRIENDS ASSOCIATION Family Picnic - Sat 2nd March The PFA Family Picnic is on Saturday 2nd March starting at 4:30pm. All families are invited to attend as we gather around our new BBQ and picnic area. This will be a great way to start off the year ‘Celebrating God, Celebrating 30 Years!’ as the whole school community comes together to enjoy an old fashioned picnic and games. There will be more information in the next newsletter. Lesley Goh is coordinating this event. A planning meeting will be held on Tuesday 12th Feb 2:20pm at Rembrandts. Any parents interested in helping are welcome to attend.

Treasurer Wanted We are still on the lookout for a parent to take on the Treasurer’s position this year. Ideally we require someone who can look after the PFA account and do basic financial reporting but also be available some days to do banking and help with floats/counting when required. If you are interested please contact pfa@standrews.vic.edu.au

2013 Committee The Committee members for 2013 are:

President: Shaun Beovich Vice President: Lesley Goh Treasurer (Acting): Annie Yew Secretary: Elisa O’Donnell

Woolworths Earn & Learn About 9 boxes of goods have arrived from the Earn and Learn fundraiser we participated in last year. These resources are earmarked for the Tata school in Vanuatu.

The Athlete’s Foot School Rewards This program is continuing throughout 2013. When you purchase a pair of shoes in one of their 6 stores (Knox City, Forest Hill, Eastland, The Glen, Chadstone or Southland), the Athlete’s Foot will donate $5 of sporting equipment back to the school. Remember to mention St Andrews!

St Andrews Run 4 Fun Back by popular demand is the Fun Run in Term 2 on Friday 26th April. This will be our major fundraiser for the year. To maximise profits for the school the PFA will be running the event ourselves. To accomplish this we will require the help of many parents. Annie Yew is coordinating the Fun Run and has scheduled a planning meeting on Friday 22nd Feb at 9am in Rembrandts. Parents are encouraged to attend. We are also on the lookout for businesses/parents to sponsor some prizes for the Fun Run.

If you can help with sponsorship please email the PFA at pfa@standrews.vic.edu.au

Next PFA meeting - Tues 19th Feb All parents are members of the PFA and are welcome to come along to meetings to contribute. At meetings we find out more about what is happening in the school through the Principal, Mrs Wansbrough. We also report on and start planning the various community and fundraising events that the PFA run. Our first meeting of the year is on Tuesday 19th February at 7:30pm in the school staffroom. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Term 1 PFA Events General Meeting - Tuesday 19th Feb 7:30pm

Family Picnic - Saturday 2nd March 4:30pm

General Meeting - Wednesday 20th March 9am

PFA Noticeboard The PFA noticeboard is located on the south wall of the Science/Art building next to the flag pole. There is also one located outside the computer room in the Senior School.

PFA Emails If you are not receiving PFA emails by now and would like to keep up to date with events/volunteer opportunities in the school please email pfa@standrews.vic.edu.au and you’ll be added to the PFA email distribution list.

Parent Participation Hours For new parents to the school a reminder that there is a minimum of 2 hours of parent participation required per term to avoid extra fees. There is a folder in the office where you can sign off any time you spend volunteering in the school. Eg: Library, art and classroom help, PFA committee or parent reps, duties at PFA events, school excursions etc.

Notices of Interest

Notices of Interest can be found at http://www.standrews.vic.edu.au/newsletter-notices-of-interest.html

* This section of our newsletter is to give our families information about programs being run by

organizations outside of the school which we consider may be of benefit/interest to our school families.

2nd Hand Uniform Shop

Open Wednesdays 8:30am - 9:30am in

Rembrandts

6 St Andrews Christian College Newsletter

JUNIOR MIDDLE

Senior School Welcome back to St Andrews Senior School for 2013. The Senior School students are well underway with their studies and the VCE students are looking forward to their camp in just over one week’s time.

Congratulations to our Community Captains for 2013 who will be formally commissioned at Monday’s Commencement Service, but who have already started their duties. At our first Senior Assembly we looked at Jesus and Moses as examples of leadership and servanthood. All senior students were encouraged to put others first and lead humbly. (Philippians 2:3-4).

We must again congratulate the Year 12 class of 2012. All of them received an offer for a tertiary course in the first round and they will be studying a diverse range of courses from Medicine, Engineering and Commerce to Arts, Teaching and IT. I would like to welcome Mrs Christina Natsis to the position of VCE Coordinator for 2013 and Miss Tiller to the newly created position of Year 9 and 10 Coordinator.

They are both eager to help parents and students with any issues that arise this year as we work together to help our students achieve their best with the abilities God has given them.

Please come along to hear more about the Senior School at the Information Night on Thursday February 14th at 7:30pm in Rembrandts. Greg Crotty Head of Senior School

VCE Our VCE students have commenced the academic year with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The importance of these two years in shaping future career prospects cannot be overemphasised. Over the next few weeks our Teaching and Learning focus will be on refining study and time-management skills in order to assist students to attain their God-given potential and to ensure that VCE is a deeply enriching and memorable experience.

As student leaders in our College Community, our VCE students are entrusted with the time-honoured task of being role models and mentors for our younger students.

VCE is not merely a time for the pursuit of academic excellence but a time when students are encouraged to forge ahead in their faith journeys as they entrust their future to God.

Please continue to uphold our VCE students in your prayers as they face the many pressures, joys and challenges of their VCE years. In particular, pray for the VCE camp that takes place on the 19th-22nd February.

I wish all our VCE students every good blessing from above this year, and may they fly on the wings of eagles. Christina Natsis VCE Coordinator

Alumni Facebook Past students of St Andrews are invited to keep in contact with each other and up to date with happenings around school via the St Andrews Christian College facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/St-Andrews-Christian-College-

Alumni/240671339386975?ref=ts&fref=ts

Letter of Thanks To the Principal , all teachers and staff As a few of the teachers may already know that Durwin, my youngest son has got into Medicine at Monash with a scholarship, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to all the teachers and staff for all the hard work put into not only Durwin's learning journey but also to Terence and Jillian's. Terence is full time working and finishing his degree at Deakin Uni this year and Jillian finally gets into medicine this year after finishing her degree in Bio Med but she will be studying at Deakin, Geelong campus. Your impact and influence on my children travels well beyond the school gates and reaches into every aspect of my children's lives and society. Thank you for the dedication, persistence and being a role model to them especially in your Christian faith. I give thanks to God for the school, teachers, and my children's achievement. St Andrews provides a safe, conducive environment for learning and spiritual development. Thank you for all prayers especially the continuous prayers for those students who have already left the school. Also remembering those teachers who are no longer at St Andrews, I would like to thank Mr Haines and others for impacting both Terence and Jillian's lives immensely. All of you have made a difference in my children's lives and to those they choose to impact. We give thanks to the Lord , for He is good. His love endures forever. Our deepest thanks The Leong family

Junior School The Junior School had a lovely start to the year. There was great excitement amongst the Junior Students as some had new teachers and some had new classroom positions. As I walked around visiting them in the morning there were many expectant faces mixed in with a few concerned looks. I listened to the teachers set the atmosphere of the classroom by a prayer, a touch or a fun activity. There was a great sense of community in the yard as new parents to the school, were greeted by existing parents and invited to the morning tea. The Preps had their first day a day later than the rest of the school and this gave the parents and students a chance to ease into school life. I loved spending a morning with them on Friday and watching the excitement of a “twirl” in a new uniform dress. Every year it reminds me of the joy that comes with new beginnings. The teachers spend much of the first week training and instructing the students on the new routines and expectations. I watched a teacher talking to a student, in the yard, about how to handle a problem. I was reminded that a great amount of what we do as a school centres around teaching the children wisdom for their life, not just knowledge for their learning. I read this funny, but very true quote by Peter Kay “Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.” May I encourage you to join us in teaching your children not just knowledge, but wisdom. Yvonne Hughes Head of Junior School

Prep First Day Fifty eager preps started their educational journey at St Andrews Christian College last Thursday. They arrived full of excitement and their parents were very happy too. After a photo opportunity, the children came in and started by giving thanks to God. We learnt our fist phonogram and explored the wonders of books and desks, pencils and scissors, fruit snacks and the playground and went home at lunch time exhausted but happy. As prep teachers it has been a pleasure to get to know the children and see their personalities come out. They are all learning so much in the first few weeks and having lots of fun getting to know their new classmates. Janelle Coote and Gayle Jones Prep Teachers

Middle School Welcome to a new year and to a new structure for St Andrews. As I learn my way around, I have been encouraged by the positive attitude of staff, parents and students and I consider it a privilege to become a part of this community. There is clear evidence of God’s rich blessing upon this College. This privilege has been accentuated as this is the thirtieth year anniversary of the School. Our year began with all staff being reminded by Rev Richard O’Brien that celebration brings joy and rejoicing. We were all encouraged to rejoice in the Lord always and at all times; easy to say, particularly when things are going well and relatively new. Now that the School year is under way, we are thinking about new routines and keeping the right balance with school, work, families, church, and leisure time. In all this we should remember to rejoice, continually. Thank you to all those who attended the Middle School Information Evening. This was a time to share valuable information regarding the programs that are a part of Middle School. A year level Handbook was distributed on the night. If you were unable to attend, please contact the office to get your copy. Please feel free to contact me at any time regarding matters relating to Middle School and I look forward to sharing the journey with you. Merrick Brewer Head of Middle School

.

St Andrews Christian College Newsletter 7

SENIOR ALUMNI

Senior School Welcome back to St Andrews Senior School for 2013. The Senior School students are well underway with their studies and the VCE students are looking forward to their camp in just over one week’s time.

Congratulations to our Community Captains for 2013 who will be formally commissioned at Monday’s Commencement Service, but who have already started their duties. At our first Senior Assembly we looked at Jesus and Moses as examples of leadership and servanthood. All senior students were encouraged to put others first and lead humbly. (Philippians 2:3-4).

We must again congratulate the Year 12 class of 2012. All of them received an offer for a tertiary course in the first round and they will be studying a diverse range of courses from Medicine, Engineering and Commerce to Arts, Teaching and IT. I would like to welcome Mrs Christina Natsis to the position of VCE Coordinator for 2013 and Miss Tiller to the newly created position of Year 9 and 10 Coordinator.

They are both eager to help parents and students with any issues that arise this year as we work together to help our students achieve their best with the abilities God has given them.

Please come along to hear more about the Senior School at the Information Night on Thursday February 14th at 7:30pm in Rembrandts. Greg Crotty Head of Senior School

VCE Our VCE students have commenced the academic year with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The importance of these two years in shaping future career prospects cannot be overemphasised. Over the next few weeks our Teaching and Learning focus will be on refining study and time-management skills in order to assist students to attain their God-given potential and to ensure that VCE is a deeply enriching and memorable experience.

As student leaders in our College Community, our VCE students are entrusted with the time-honoured task of being role models and mentors for our younger students.

VCE is not merely a time for the pursuit of academic excellence but a time when students are encouraged to forge ahead in their faith journeys as they entrust their future to God.

Please continue to uphold our VCE students in your prayers as they face the many pressures, joys and challenges of their VCE years. In particular, pray for the VCE camp that takes place on the 19th-22nd February.

I wish all our VCE students every good blessing from above this year, and may they fly on the wings of eagles. Christina Natsis VCE Coordinator

Alumni Facebook Past students of St Andrews are invited to keep in contact with each other and up to date with happenings around school via the St Andrews Christian College facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/St-Andrews-Christian-College-

Alumni/240671339386975?ref=ts&fref=ts

Letter of Thanks To the Principal , all teachers and staff As a few of the teachers may already know that Durwin, my youngest son has got into Medicine at Monash with a scholarship, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to all the teachers and staff for all the hard work put into not only Durwin's learning journey but also to Terence and Jillian's. Terence is full time working and finishing his degree at Deakin Uni this year and Jillian finally gets into medicine this year after finishing her degree in Bio Med but she will be studying at Deakin, Geelong campus. Your impact and influence on my children travels well beyond the school gates and reaches into every aspect of my children's lives and society. Thank you for the dedication, persistence and being a role model to them especially in your Christian faith. I give thanks to God for the school, teachers, and my children's achievement. St Andrews provides a safe, conducive environment for learning and spiritual development. Thank you for all prayers especially the continuous prayers for those students who have already left the school. Also remembering those teachers who are no longer at St Andrews, I would like to thank Mr Haines and others for impacting both Terence and Jillian's lives immensely. All of you have made a difference in my children's lives and to those they choose to impact. We give thanks to the Lord , for He is good. His love endures forever. Our deepest thanks The Leong family

St Andrews Alumni

This eNewsletter is proudly produced by St Andrews Christian College 130 Tyner Road Wantirna South Vic 3152

P: 03 9800 2922 | F: 03 9800 4564 | W: www.standrews.vic.edu.au

Charlene Lee

Primary Teacher

Hello St Andrews! I am Charlene Lee, otherwise known as “Mrs. Lee” of Grade 4L. I am happily married to Daniel Lee, the handsome “Mr. Lee” of Grade 6L! I am also a proud Monash University graduate, with a Bachelor of Arts (International Studies/Politics) and a Graduate Diploma of Education (Primary). I was born in Singapore, where I completed my entire primary education before moving to Taiwan for 3 years. I did half of high school at the Taipei American School, and as a result I had a varied American accent for a while. I was teased for saying “Mom” instead of “Mum”, and “waah-tch” instead of “watch” when I moved to Melbourne in 2004. While most people can’t really pick it now, I do tend to revert to saying things the “American” way when I’m tired or away from Australia for an extended holiday! I am so extremely blessed to be starting my first year of teaching in this supportive school community that is St Andrews, but when I am not thinking about school or my precious Grade 4 students, I do enjoy going for a swim (I’m not a great swimmer, but I just find swimming to be extremely therapeutic – especially on a sunny day!), going for a photo walk with my Nikon D7000, having a nice meal with Mr. Lee or my family, sneaking a chocolate, reading a really good book (the Bible is usually pretty good!), and travelling to different parts of the world. Love, Mrs. Lee

Dr Philip Strack

Science/Chemistry Teacher

My name is Dr Philip Strack and I am very excited to be teaching Science/Chemistry here at St Andrews Christian College. From a young age I had a keen fascination with science and was involved in the CSIRO Double Helix Science Club, Siemens Summer Science School and Victorian Solar Car challenge. I attended Christian College Geelong and in VCE studied Biology and Chemistry. At The University of Melbourne I completed two degrees - Science (Biochemistry & Genetics) and Arts (Indonesian language). Next move was to La Trobe University where I completed Honours in Science (Biochemistry), and a PhD in Biochemistry. I then pursued a Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) in Science Education. During my time at University I made what I consider to be the most influential and pivotal decision of my life, the decision to follow Christ. The majesty and intricacy of God’s creation that I have discovered and continue to see through Science convinces me of His existence and active involvement in every aspect of our lives. My Christian parents have always encouraged and supported me. Dad is Grounds Manager for the campuses of Christian College Geelong and Mum was a teacher. My older brother is Lead Digital Designer for a well-known surf brand. I particularly enjoy spicy foods, playing musical instruments, snowboarding, bushwalking, horse-riding, and long bike-rides. I have had some great life experiences, such as travelling to Indonesia during secondary school, a mission trip to India, and Canada and Germany for scientific collaborations. I am very grateful for the way God has directed me to the supportive and caring atmosphere at St Andrews Christian College. I eagerly look forward to the privilege of showing the majesty and intricacy of God’s creation to all my Science students, fostering a love of learning, and a passion for Science. Regards, Philip Strack

INTRODUCING OUR NEW STAFF #1 This week we are introducing Charlene Lee & Merrick Brewer .

Introducing