As we approach the end of another successful year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the remarkable journey we’ve shared throughout 2024.

This year has been a testament to the strength of our school community. Together, we have celebrated achievements, overcome challenges, and continued to foster a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and care at North Geelong Secondary College.

Congratulations to our graduating class on their achievements. Your resilience and determination will serve you well as you embark on the next chapter of your journey. The graduation on November 27th was a tremendous celebration of 13 years of schooling. It made me smile when I saw these students make their way to collect their graduation certificates and stoles, knowing their journey and the diligence they have shown to complete their schooling. Remember, you will always be part of the NGSC family.

To our staff, thank you for your hard work and passion, which continues to shape our students' futures. To our families, thank you for your support and partnership in education.

As we look to the year ahead, I am excited about the opportunities that await us. We will continue to build on our successes and strive for even greater heights.

Wishing you all a safe and joyous holiday. May it be a time of rest, reflection, and renewal.

Term 4 Key Dates

High NAPLAN Learning Growth

The NAPLAN data below highlights the percentage of students who achieved high growth in Reading and Numeracy from their Year 7 scores. These are the only two areas reported by the Department. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the value-adding strategies employed by the teachers at NGSC.

Examples of strategies that have contributed to high learning growth include:

• Teaching students to take ownership of their data, fostering intrinsic motivation.

• Maintaining consistent high expectations and a belief across the College that all students are capable learners across the College.

• Identifying students' individual learning needs and tailoring assignments to meet those needs.

• The Achieving Core Education (ACE) program, which supports students below the expected level by offering individualised, intensive tuition focused on improving literacy and numeracy skills over the course of a year.

• The Striving To Achieve Results (STAR) program which is designed to further develop, consolidate, and enhance the literacy and numeracy skills of students who are meeting the expected level.

• Differentiated classes to extend learning for students achieving above the expected level, including in the Mainstream and Select Entry Accelerated Learning (SEAL) classes.

• Increased use of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) across the College to ensure targeted support.

These strategies are consistently applied by dedicated, skilled staff members who are deeply committed to fostering their students' learning and success.

New Vocational Major Program 2025

Over the past two weeks, students who have elected to move into the new look Vocational Major program for 2025 have completed their orientation sessions. Students participated in a number of activities including:

• Bus tour showing students different VET locations

• Writing and role-playing scripts in preparation for cold calling local businesses, in order to obtain a placement.

• Learning about the required paperwork for their Structured Workplace Learning

• Getting a taste of the integrated, project-based learning environment that the students will be working in, to complete all relevant outcomes

Feedback from the students about the orientation was overwhelmingly positive, with comments stating how relevant, practical and useful to them the activities were. The College looks forward to a great year planned with many students gaining skills in their chosen career paths.

CALD Women’s Group Christmas Presentation

North Geelong Secondary College in partnership with Catholic Care Victoria held the annual Christmas get together for the CALD Women’s Group at St Mary’s Football Club. Our Women’s Group supports refugee mothers from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, as they have the additional challenge of supporting their children through school while navigating re-settlement.

North Geelong Year 11 students Zain Sayed, Gloria Baraka and Gay Nay Moo Gay Nay Moo led the morning celebration which included speeches and thankyous from many organisations, a presentation from Geelong Football Club and an introduction to AFL through a skills clinic on the oval. The CALD Women’s Group were also provided with Christmas hampers for the holiday season which was organised by students from Sacred Heart College.

Zain, Gloria and Gay Nay were also involved with the Human Library Project throughout the year, which involved students documenting their journeys to Australian education from a variety of backgrounds and difficult circumstances. These stories were shared on Multicultural Day, where Ella George, Member for Lara, was able to speak to the students involved and ask some questions about their individual experiences.

Social Media legislation

For those unaware, legislation was passed to support protection of our children under 16 from social media. This will take place at some stage next year. This may be a common topic of conversation in households at the moment. “What is it going to look like, what should I be doing to prepare my children for laws that I do not know about yet?” We do not really know yet, but it looks like it is going to support parents to reinforce boundaries for their children to protect them from negative online interactions through social media. Basically, you will be better placed to say you cannot be on that app! In 2025, NGSC will aim to provide parents with support, advice and information to help with this transition.

School rules, values and pathways

Quite often in our roles we are having conversations with students about the school expectations with rules and their purpose was, often reverting back to what a prospective employer might be looking for in an employee. We really want our students to be well prepared for their next steps in their pathways and, regardless of whether it is a part time job or lifelong careers, the expectations at NGSC are high but prepare our students excellently. I recently visited the Platinum Institute, which provides students with pre-apprenticeships. I was quite pleased to see on the wall their 9 principles of work readiness. Jason Pickles, the Chief Operations Officer and NGSC Alumni, was more than happy to share these with us and highlighted that these underpin their everyday expectations.

When you take a closer look, you can see elements of our Progress Reports and expectations around ownership which we often discuss with students.

The Platinum Institute is just one example of opportunities we can explore for students who are looking for an alternative pathway or an avenue into a trade. Platinum provides a pre-apprenticeship for 16 weeks, inclusive of relevant on-site work experience. It was pleasing to hear that Maklin Jeffrey (year 10) is excelling in the program this term and fingers crossed he receives an apprenticeship in the new year.

The last few weeks in the Junior Sub School have been very exciting. Students have participated in STEM and swimming as well as many different activities during Activities Week, the Grade 6 Orientation days and, of course, the amazing Awards Night.

STEM and Swimming

Students in Years 7 and 8 participated in the STEM and swimming week. The Year 8 students made amazing theme parks as a class, collaborating to make working rides and attractions. They worked on these theme parks every day for a week. It was fantastic to see the teamwork and determination of the students. The Year 8 students presented their theme parks to the Year 7 students and the Principal Class, competing for votes on the best theme park design. Also, during this week, both the Year 7 and 8 students took part in the swimming program where all the students had a great time. Overall, the STEM and swimming week was a huge success.

Activity Week

Many students in Year 7 and 8 participated in the Activity Week. This was a week of celebration with many different excursions that students could sign up for such as DFO, bowling and Luna Park. Students could also sign up for different activities that were run in the school from chess, Christmas activities and movies. All the students enjoyed and celebrated their final week of school.

Year 7 Orientation Days

This week was quite a busy week with the Year 7 Orientation. There was two days of fun activities, focused on getting to know the other new Year 7 students. Students participated in various classes from Maths and English, to Art, PE, and Food Technology. All the students left, looking forward to joining the school community in 2025.

Awards Night

The final event at the school was the annual Awards Night. Everyone was extremely proud of the students that received their awards. All the staff were extremely happy with the students and their achievements throughout the year.

Overall, the junior sub-school has had a great year, and we look forward to seeing what all of the students achieve in 2025.

From everyone at the Junior Sub School, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Year 9 

Year 9 students have had a fabulous year in 2024. In Year 9 the focus shifts to deepening knowledge in core subjects, preparing for more specialized study in later years, and building skills that are essential for success in both school and future education or career paths. Students undertake their core subjects with two electives each semester to support their progression and understanding. This year there were multiple excursions to The Gordon, Victoria Uni and Deakin Uni to explore future pathways and trial careers options, with some students undertaking work experience and part time jobs with the help of the Careers Team.

Throughout the year students develop various skills including:

• Critical Thinking: Students are encouraged to analyse, evaluate, and reason through problems.
• Independent Learning: Greater emphasis on managing time, completing assignments independently, and conducting research.
• Communication Skills: Oral presentations, group work, and writing are important areas of development.
• Collaboration: Group projects and teamwork become more common.

Selected students were chosen to participate in a Leadership program to develop their individual skills and motivate them to become future leaders within the cohort and within future leadership opportunities at the College. The Year 9 students were very active in Interschool sports, competing against other schools within the region and through the EIS programs. A lot of the students participated in the Musical and lunch time sessions at the piazza, sharing their singing and instrumental talents with the College.

This year has been an exploratory and developmental time for students both personally and within their education. My hope is that each student has learned and improved themselves on a personal level; started thinking about their future pathway and explored options moving forward. I look forward to working with this Year 9 cohort in the future and seeing the young adults and professionals they become.

Year 10

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s hard to believe that our Year 10 students are already preparing to transition into their senior years of schooling. This marks the end of their time within the Middle Sub-School and the beginning of an exciting new chapter as they embark on their VCE/VM and beyond. It’s been a year filled with growth, engagement, and exploration—one we’re incredibly proud of.

Throughout the year, we've seen our students engage in meaningful learning experiences designed to help them discover their passions and start charting their career paths. Here are just a few of the highlights:

Highlights of the Year

• Leadership Camp: A transformative experience where students honed their leadership skills, collaborated with peers, and built lasting friendships.
• Course Counselling: A vital step for students to explore their academic interests and make informed decisions about their VCE subjects.
• Careers Week: A week full of insightful talks, workshops, and activities, designed to inspire students and broaden their understanding of potential career opportunities.
• University Excursions: These excursions gave students a firsthand look at university life and the chance to explore different study pathways for their future.

Celebrating Academic Achievement

We would like to congratulate the following students who have been awarded scholarships as they head into Year 11. These awards are a testament to their dedication and hard work:

• Indah Blyth – English
• Leah Rogers – Humanities
• Jake Matchett – Mathematics
• Louis Smith – Science

Exciting New Opportunities: VCE and VCE Vocational Major Programs

In the past two weeks, students have had the opportunity to explore both the VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education) and the Vocational Major Program during orientation sessions. Both pathways provide valuable support to students as they navigate their senior years of schooling.

• Vocational Major Program: This innovative program offers practical, hands-on learning aligned with a VET (Vocational Education and Training) program. Students participate in one day of practical learning each week, along with an additional day of work experience. The excitement around this program has been fantastic with students very eager to get started!

As our Year 10 students prepare to step into these exciting opportunities, we’re confident that their journey through Year 11 and beyond will be filled with success and personal growth. The future is bright, and we can’t wait to see all that they will achieve.

Thank you to our students, parents, and staff for making 2024 such a memorable year. Here’s to the exciting road ahead in 2025!

VCE VCAA Exams: The Results Are Here!

And just like that, the VCE exams are over! To all our hardworking Year 12s, congratulations on reaching the finish line of this marathon of study, caffeine, and questionable Google searches about logarithms at 3 a.m. Results were released on Thursday, remember that these scores are just one part of your story. We’re incredibly proud of your efforts and can’t wait to see where your next adventure takes you—hopefully to a well-deserved sleep-in!

Year 12 Graduation Night: A Night to Remember

What a spectacular celebration! Our Year 12 Graduation Night was nothing short of magical, with students and guests bringing their A-game in style and smiles. The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, warm congratulations, and just a hint of nostalgia (yes, that’s what those happy tears were about). The night’s highlight was the recognition of special award recipients—congratulations to all for setting an incredible example of excellence. To our graduates: you’ve officially earned the right to call yourself alumni, so go forth, chase your dreams, and maybe remember to call your parents once in a while. Well done, Class of 2024—you made us proud!

Year 11 into 12 Orientation: Buckle Up for 2025!

Congratulations to our soon-to-be Year 12 students for navigating Orientation Week like seasoned pros. Classes are sorted, teachers are assigned, and holiday homework is firmly on the radar. Remember, this isn’t a “choose your own adventure” situation—it’s “complete your homework or be haunted by it in Term 1.” If any issues pop up, shoot your teachers an email. They love holiday interruptions almost as much as they love marking essays!

Year 12 Leadership Camp 2025: Ballarat Bound

With all forms signed and submitted, the countdown to the 2025 Leadership Camp is officially on! This exciting event will be held at a university in Ballarat, where students will stay in dorms and experience a taste of campus life. No need to brush up on your campfire cooking skills—meals are covered, so your focus can stay on the leadership activities (and maybe figuring out how to make your bed with hospital corners).

Don’t forget to check the Google Classroom for the packing list and important updates. Since Ballarat is known for its brisk weather, we recommend packing some warm clothes—you’ll thank us when the temperature drops! This camp promises to be a great opportunity to build connections, develop skills, and prepare for the exciting year ahead. See you there!

Year 10 into 11 Orientation: Stepping Into Senior School

Our Year 10 students have taken their first steps into senior school life, and what a great start it’s been! VM students have begun planning their workplace learning for 2025, making excellent progress on their first projects. VCE students have jumped straight into their new classes, laying a solid foundation for the year ahead—and yes, they’ve also received their first taste of holiday homework.

This orientation period has been about more than just academics; it’s been an introduction to the responsibilities and opportunities of senior school. Our students have shown great enthusiasm and adaptability, setting themselves up for a successful transition.

Congratulations to all Year 10s for embracing this step with such positivity. Keep up the great work, and remember to tackle that holiday homework during the break—it’s a key step in preparing for the exciting challenges of next year. You’re off to a fantastic start!

Enjoy the Break: Senior School’s Final Sign-Off

As the year winds down, we’d like to extend a huge thank you for an amazing 2024. Whether it was nailing exams, surviving homework marathons, or figuring out how to navigate the school’s Wi-Fi, you’ve made us proud. Enjoy the break, recharge those batteries, and maybe even pick up a book or two (holiday homework doesn’t complete itself). Stay safe, and we’ll see you bright-eyed and bushy-tailed in 2025!

P.S. Don’t forget to put your uniform in the wash at least once before Term 1. Your future self will thank you.

Joel McDougall | Senior Sub School Leader

SPORTS SHACK

Borrowing Times: 12:39pm – 12:50pm

Please record the date, your name, home group, and the items you have borrowed on the Borrowing Sheet.

Return Times: 1:25 pm

Ensure to return the borrowed equipment and check off your name. Should there be any issues with returning the equipment, promptly inform the staff at the Sports Shack.

Failure to return equipment may impact your ability to borrow in the future.

The Sports Shack is an excellent resource for students, and it is in everyone's interest to contribute to its efficient operation.

The last two alumni events for 2024 saw Keak (Kiko) Joak (2019) return to chat with the 2025 Media Studies students. His film writing and directing debut, 'Ran', screened at the Courthouse alongside a production by North Youth Theatre in April, 2023. HIs second film, 'People Like You!', screened at North Bellarine Film Festival in November 2024, and is short-listed for a festival in Melbourne in 2025. Kiko talked of how difficult it was for him as a newly-arrived refugee from Africa to settle in to a new environment and learn a new language. He was thankful for the opportunities afforded by the College, which introduced him to acting and writing. He wrote for, and performed with, North Youth Theatre, and appeared in a film with Guy Pearce, before eventually embarking on film-making and directing. Kiko talked about the processes involved in film-making, emphasing the importance of story-telling and authenticity. The Media Studies students were grateful for the tips Kiko provided around how to produce a folio that would be of interest to others. 

Miguel Henriques (2010) was the other alumni to visit this term. He spoke to the 2025 Accounting class about his pathway since leaving NGSC. Miguel started a degree course at Deakin University, but deferred this part way through. He obtained a job in Sales/Customer Service with Telstra. He worked there for six years, eventually moving into training and leadership roles related to the NBN rollout. Miguel joined Westpac as a Personal Banker, but set goals to move into Home Finance, which combined his passions of property and helping others. Describing himself as cheeky and very social during his school years, he has used his communication skills to advantage in his career choices. He emphasised the need to be able to listen, and respond with empathy, to his clients. He explained how these traits were not just important in his role as a Senior Home Finance manager in the Geelong Region, but in everyday life!

I extend my thanks to all the alumni who have been gracious enough to give up their time to re-connect with North Geelong Secondary College. Our current students have appreciated learning about various pathways and options open to them. I look forward to connecting with more alumni in 2025.

If you would like to become a part of the ever-growing alumni community, please email alumni@ngsc.com.au

I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season.

Alumni events

Mental Health Supports for Students over the Holidays

The Victorian Government has developed mental health support, resources and advice for students and families to access over the school holidays. Two fact sheets for students and families have been developed in 19 different languages to:

• support positive mental health and wellbeing of students
• identify signs students may need mental health support
• access available support.

Please visit the link for more information Mental health supports for students over school holidays | vic.gov.au

☀️ Geelong Youth Holiday Program ☀️

Starting 2025 off strong Geelong Youth have a loaded holiday schedule. This schedule lists activities happening across all youth sites so be sure to contact the lead worker for the program you want to attend if you have any questions!

Contact Khyl

📍 The fOrT Youth Centre - Corner Melbourne and St Georges Rd, Norlane VIC 3214

📍 Lara Skate Park - 87 Station Lake Rd, Lara VIC 3212

📞 0466 818 805 or 5272 5272

📧 kcornwill@geelongcity.vic.gov.au or youthadmin@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

Contact Titit

📍 Armstrong Creek East Community Hub - 46 Central Bvd, Armstrong Creek VIC 3217

📍 Multicultural Group - The fOrT Youth Centre - Corner Melbourne and St Georges Rd, Norlane VIC 3214

📞 0403 123 968 or 5272 5272

📧 titit.nyak@geelongcity.vic.gov.au or youthadmin@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

GASP

📞 0403 123 968 or 5272 5272

📧 gasp@geelongcity.vic.gov.au or youthadmin@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

All programs are open and free for young people aged 12-25. Activities may be changed. Other activities may become available or be postponed to a later date. Please check the Geelong Youth socials before attending in case of cancellations.

Geelong Regional Libraries Youth Holiday Program

QHub Holiday Program

QHub Geelong is holding several drop-in sessions during the January school holidays. For high school age LGBTIQA+ young people, the drop-in days will be on Thursdays, January 9th (movie day), 16th (queer karaoke), and 23rd (crafternoon), 2pm-5pm. QHub Geelong are located at 47 Yarra Street in Geelong. You can follow QHub on Instagram @QHubGeelong to stay updated on everything happening.

If LGBTIQ+ young people need support during the holidays, you can contact Rainbow Door https://www.rainbowdoor.org.au/

QHub is also hosting a DnD campaign for LGBTIQA+ young people ages 13-18.

There are four sessions (January 9, 10, 23, 24) running in the early evenings at the QHub.

To express your interest, message them on Instagram @QHubGeelong or email Britt at the link below.

Headspace Corio & headspace Geelong Summer Programs

headspace Holiday Hours

headspace Geelong, Corio and Armstrong Creek are still available for support – Brief intervention, sexual health, physical health, Alcohol & Other Drugs, Work and study. You can call (03) 5222 6690 or use the headspace Referral Form | Mental Health Referral. You can also walk in to make an appointment.

headspace Closure Dates:

• Geelong 24/12/24 - 02/01/25.
• Corio 19/12/24 - 14/01/25
• Armstrong Creek 23/12/24 - 13/01/25.
• Ocean Grove 24/12/24 – 06/01/25
• Drysdale 24/12/24 – 13/01/25

headspace Regular Opening Hours:

• Corio Tues, Wed, Thurs - 9am – 5pm
• Geelong Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri - 9am - 5pm, Thurs - 9am - 7pm
• Armstrong Creek Mon-Fri - 9am-5pm

Ocean Grove Mon-Wed 9am – 5pm, Thurs – 11am – 7pm

School Avoidance Parent's Seminar 

School Anxiety is increasing around the world. The reasons are varied, significantly different between age groups, cultures and social contexts. As we prepare for the return to school in a few weeks it's common to see anxiety resurfacing, especially for those transition years of entering High School.

If you are facing:

• Stomach upsets seeming to be related to school
• Fear and panic when school is discussed
• Avoidance in discussing school and related subjects
• Increased withdrawal from pleasurable activities and isolation

Then you are not alone.

In this seminar staff from Drummond Street and Gateways Support service will explore school anxiety, how to recognise the signs early, preparing for key transition points, and ways to support your child to change this cycle of anxiety.

• Date: Thursday 16th January
• Time: 5pm-6:30pm
• Location: Drummond Street Geelong - 47 Yarra Street Geelong (Across from Market Square)
• Cost: FREE - but registrations are essential

Light refreshments will be provided as well as some activities for smaller children. Feel free to come with your questions and the Child and Family Practitioners at Drummond Street will be eager to help as best we can.

Register Here Overview ⋮ School Anxiety and Transitions Back to School ⋮ Blackthorn Events

Parenting Programs in the Geelong Region - Term 1, 2025

You can view all the Parenting Programs offered in the Geelong Region for Term 1, 2025 via this link Microsoft Word - 2025 Term 1 Regional Parenting Calendar.docx. All Regional Parenting Service programs along with MELI, Family Relationship Centre, Drummond St Services and Barwon Southwest Region programs will be offered face-to-face or online. Bookings are essential.

Water Safety

During Week 9, our Year 7 & 8 students participated in our annual school swimming program. Water safety is especially important as the weather warms up and we approach the summer school holidays. Many people are heading to popular swimming spots, such as Eastern Beach, the beautiful beaches on the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast, as well as local swimming pools. We urge everyone to recognise the value of swimming lessons and water safety to reduce the risk of drowning. For more information about swimming lessons visit Swim Sport and Leisure -City of Greater Geelong.

Drowning prevention starts with you, before heading out this summer learn how to enjoy the water safely:

• Know your swimming abilities
• Always supervise children around water
• Avoid alcohol around water
• Wear a lifejacket when boating and fishing
• Avoid going alone
• Know the conditions
• Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags

Royal Life Saving Australia - Water Safety Tips to Enjoy the Water Safely

For more information visit Water Safety | Royal Life Saving Society - Australia

Active Schools

North Geelong Secondary College recently applied for a $30,000 Active Schools Grant. We are excited to announce that we have been successful in receiving this grant for 2025. The funding will provide support and resources to enable students to be more physically active throughout the school day including in the classroom, at lunch and getting to and from school. We will share our Active Schools initiatives with the whole school community throughout 2025.

Dental In - Clinic Appointments

All students attending government schools are eligible for Smile Squad for free dental services– includes teeth cleaning, fluoride applications, fillings and any other non-cosmetic, follow-up treatments. They do not need a healthcare card, Medicare or access to the Child Dental Benefits Scheme. Parents will still need to complete the consent online form but can book independently and directly with the Smile Squad provider, Barwon Health.

Barwon Health North Dental Clinic

155 Princess Highway, Norlane 3214

Tel: 03 4215 7240

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is acknowledged between 25 November – 10 December. It is a UN initiative recognised across the world. The purpose of the Victorian campaign is to help build Victorian communities where women are safe and equal.

Key Dates within the campaign include:

• 25 November: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
• 3 December: International Day of People with Disability
• 10 December: International Human Rights Day

To find out how you can get involved with a local event or for more information visit the links

For more information about the Victorian campaign, you can visit: https://www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au/campaigns/16-days-activism-against-gender-based-violence

For more information about the worldwide campaign, you can visit: https://www.unwomen.org/en/get-involved/16-days-of-activism

Doctors-In-Secondary Schools (DISS)

The Doctors in Secondary Schools (DISS) program is still operating at NGSC each Thursday. The clinic is staffed by Nurse Kate, Dr. Cecilia, and Nathan (Psychologist) from Barwon Community Health. Students can see the nurse or doctor for a wide range of reasons and referrals can be made online https://bch.org.au/contact/youth-referral/ or by contacting one of the Student Wellbeing Coordinators. Parents/carers can also contact Student Wellbeing for enquiries.

Doctors- In- Secondary Schools’ last day of onsite services for the school year will be on the 5th of December.

Financial Support - Uniting Barwon

Financial Support for 2025 Education Costs

Uniting Barwon provide eligible NGSC families with financial support for textbooks, uniforms, and education expenses.

Families that hold a current Health Care Card or are experiencing exceptional circumstances are eligible for support.

We encourage all eligible families to contact Uniting Barwon ASAP to book in an appointment time.

Please call 4210 1100 between 9:30 -11:45 Monday – Friday.

Uniting Barwon is located at 270 Torquay Rd, Grovedale.

If transport is not available, please advise the Uniting Barwon worker when you call.

Uniting Barwon

Ph: 4210 1100

Call between 9:30am - 11:45am Monday to Friday to book an appointment.

If you do not hold a Health Care Card but require assistance, please contact the Student Wellbeing team on Ph: 5240 5800.

Support Numbers for Young People and Families

Emergency - 000

Barwon Health Mental Health Services - 1300 094 187

Orange Door - 1800 312 820

Lifeline - 13 11 14

Kids Helpline - 1800 551 800

Suicide Line 24/7 - 1300 651 251

The Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre -03 5222 4318

Headspace - 03 5222 6690

eHeadspace - Emergency assistance | headspace

Youth Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636

Get support - Beyond Blue - Beyond Blue

Where can I get emergency food in Geelong?

There are many organisations that provide food assistance in the local Geelong region. Where You Can Eat provides an up-to-date guide on all the food relief agencies across the Geelong region. Please click on the link below for information on when, where, how, and what food relief services are available near you.

https://www.feedgeelong.com.au/wp-content/uploads/pdf/Where-You-Can-Eat-July-2024-Ed_FINAL.pdf

Preventing Vaping

Did you know that In Victoria, a person must not smoke or vape on school premises or within 4 metres of any pedestrian access point to school premises? The ban aims to protect children and young people from second-hand smoke and the aerosol from vapes. North Geelong Secondary College have “No Smoking or Vaping” signs at all pedestrian access points to the school grounds, as a reminder for students, families, staff and visitors. The smoking and vaping ban applies during and outside of school hours. The Department of Education also bans smoking and vaping at school events and excursions held off school premises. For more information about the smoking and vaping ban visit Smoking and Vaping Ban: Policy | education.vic.gov.au

Some Great Information Regarding Applying for an Apprenticeship or Traineeship

What are employers looking for in an apprentice or trainee?

There are the baseline traits that all employees look for:

• Punctuality
• Honesty
• Initiative
• Work ethic.
• Self-awareness and the desire for self-improvement – Curiosity is big thing all employers say they are looking for. They don’t expect you to know it all, but they want to see a drive to learn.

So how do you capture the attention of an employer?

Why are you unique? What can you offer that no one else can? We all have Unique Selling Points or USPs (in digital marketing terms). Name your top three strengths then ask a parent, friend or former employer to do the same. For example, you may be efficient, outgoing and driven. Think of examples in your personal life where you have illustrated these strengths and spell them out using examples.

YOU MUST have a Resume. Employers offering apprenticeships and traineeships accept that you may have very little paid work experience, but you do have skills. Perhaps you are the captain of your sporting club, or you are coach of a team, completed a pre-apprenticeship, studied tech or hospitality at school, worked at your dad’s company in the holidays or learned how to construct things. Include achievements such as awards or projects you managed at school. It could simply be that you worked part-time for a year to go on a school trip, which shows you have determination.

Be creative with your skill set.

Present well. Dress well and look clean and tidy even if you are in your school uniform. Presentation also includes ensuring there are no spelling or grammar mistakes in your resume. This is especially important to show you have a keen eye for attention to detail.

Be enthusiastic. Enthusiasm is so important in apprentices!

Someone who is enthusiastic, energetic and passionate creating products will get employed. Remember, while you may not have a lengthy resume, you might be surprised by how much you can truly offer.

Employers also value a young person’s initiative to pick up the phone (yes actually talking) and have a conversation with prospective employers.

Stay off your mobile during business hours!

Might be obvious, but Snapchat, Instagram, Tik Tok.... CAN ALL WAIT!

The one thing the Head Start Coordinators hear from frustrated employers; “They are always on their phone.”

Check it at appropriate times during breaks, but other times show some initiative during slow periods and clean, restack, clean a work vehicle – this is the thing that will impress.

What makes doing an apprenticeship so worthwhile?

Learning in a practical setting is invaluable. Not only do you get to develop skills in a practical environment, but you’re surrounded by experienced professionals that you can learn and draw inspiration from. An apprenticeship goes beyond the theory and provides you with skills and experience that will set you up for a career that you may have never been able to access otherwise.

Finding yourself the right apprenticeship isn’t always as difficult as you may think, talk to your Careers Teacher about how Head Start can help you present well to employers.

If you’re a student looking for a pathway into employment, a parent looking for a secure future for your child, or an employer looking for your next apprentice, contact the Careers and Pathways Team about the Head Start Program!

Connect

With the introduction of Connect in 2025 we will no longer have homeroom at the beginning of the day. A copy of the new bell times is here for students and families to become familiar with before the school year begins.

Connect will only run on a Thursday after recess each week. Students will need to be prepared for Connect, period 3 and period 4 classes after recess each week.

Connect will be hands on, engaging and developing social and emotional skills of students to enhance their wellbeing, connectedness and resilience at school. Connect will cover topics such as emotional literacy, stress management, study skills, respectful relationships and give us a space to learn about whole school celebrations such as RUOK? day and Harmony Day, just to name a few.

Staff and students are really excited for the new curriculum, and we will be keeping everyone up to date with new learning ideas and focus each week as well as sharing tips through the newsletter to strengthen the connection and message between school and home.

VCE VM Orientation 

Orientation for both the Year 12 and Year 11 students, which occurred over the last four weeks, was a success. The Year 12 students have become familiar with their new teachers and understand what is required of them for stepping up into their final year of schooling at North Geelong Secondary College. We cannot wait to see what amazing projects they tackle in 2025.

The Year 11 students' were introduced to the new integrated VCE VM program. Students enjoyed activities such as initiative games, maths puzzles, a very competitive gingerbread house competition, golfing, and a VET safari so they know where they will be attending their VET next year. Overall students and staff had a great two-week orientation, with students being set up for a great 2025. 

Winner - Traditional Gingerbread House 

Ibrahim Afsar and Julia Gamboa

Winner - Most Unique House "The Fall Down"

Joshua Williams

VET Safari stop at Curlewis Mini Golf and Driving Range.

Healthy School News 

Faith Field - Secondary School Nurse | Health, Wellbeing and Specialist Services

Active Schools

Active Schools aims to ensure that all Victorian students have the skills, confidence, and motivation to be active in life. North Geelong Secondary College is an Active School and encourages all students, families, and staff to be active.

Summer Sport:

It's that time of year when local community-based sports clubs in Geelong are taking registrations for the summer season. Young people have plenty of opportunities to participate in various sporting activities. Take a look at some of the local sports clubs and consider getting involved in local sports: Sports Clubs

The Get Active Kids Voucher Program is now open!

The Get Active Kids Voucher Program is now open! Get in quick as applications will remain open until the allocation is exhausted. If your family or child has a Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card, you may be eligible for up to $200 to put towards the cost of your child’s participation in sport and active recreation activities.

Important Dates:

Round 8 open to apply for a voucher or reimbursement: 10:00 am Wednesday, 9 October 2024 and will remain open until the allocation is exhausted.

Reimbursement expenditure dates: from 1 July 2024 until submission of application

Vouchers expiry date: Tuesday, 29 April 2025.

The Get Active Kids Voucher Program helps eligible families get their kids involved in organised sport and active recreation activities by providing financial support for the cost of membership and registration fees. Eligible children may be able to receive up to $200 each.

Special consideration also applies for children residing in care services, as well as temporary or provisional visa holders, undocumented migrants, or international students.

To find out if you are eligible, how to apply, what costs are covered and more, visit www.getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers

You can find translated information about the Get Active Kids Voucher Program below:

Arabic poster – PDF
Hindi poster – PDF
Punjabi poster – PDF
Somali poster (PDF)
Vietnamese poster – PDF
Mandarin poster – PDF

Respectful Relationships

At North Geelong Secondary College, we are dedicated to promoting healthy and respectful relationships among students, families, and staff. We use the Victorian Respectful Relationships whole school approach, including the Resilience, Rights & Respectful Relationships 7-12 Resources to help students learn and practice social skills that can positively impact their learning, life, and relationships. These resources cover eight social and emotional learning topics to support the delivery of the respectful relationships program. Additionally, North Geelong Secondary College encourages the entire school community to adopt equal and respectful attitudes, behaviours, structures, and practices. For more information click on the link Respectful Relationships | schools.vic.gov.au

North Geelong Centre

Located at

North Geelong Secondary College

Just a quick update on the situation with VSL / LOTE learning. Many of our students attend school on a Saturday morning to learn a language. The VSL is running all classes through on-line learning, as are day-schools; the lessons are running at the usual time on a Saturday. The VSL teachers contacted each class member prior to the commencement of this term in regard to the electronic platform being used and instructions to access those. If any of our students or their parents/guardians have questions about this, please contact the class teacher first (if possible) and then make all enquiries through the VSL head-office.

The Victorian School of Languages is a specialist Government school offering complementary language instruction outside of regular school hours. It enrols students in Years 1 to 12, who are unable to study their language of choice in their mainstream school. Students from all educational sectors (Government, Independent and Catholic) are eligible to enrol.

The Victorian School of Languages offers quality courses aligned with Government curriculum standards, based on communication skills, that include speaking, reading, writing and listening. Its VCE Program is fully accredited and can advantage students in the calculation of their University entrance score.

The school`s Language Program is delivered through online teaching in over 40 Language Centres situated in government Secondary Schools across the state, and through Distance Education mode.

In North Geelong, classes are held on Saturday mornings between 9:00 am and 12:15 pm online.

Languages offered:

Croatian, Karen, Vietnamese, Dari, Persian, Polish, Macedonian, Bosnian, Turkish and Russian

*New languages may be offered subject to demand*

For enquiries Telephone: 5277 9833

Further details and enrolment are available online at our website: www.vsl.vic.edu.au

Discover the World of Languages!