Secondary School News

Winter Uniform Change-over Period

As we enter Winter, the first two weeks of Term 2 will be a change-over period from Summer to Winter uniform across the College. Students may choose to wear either their Winter or Summer uniform from their return Tuesday, 26th April. However, it must be one or the other and NOT a combination of both.

Uniform Standards Reminders

Here at BCC we want to ensure that our students are well-presented and are setting high standards in the wearing of their uniform. While most students are doing just that, some need reminding of our expectations.

We are focusing on:
1. Boys’ shirts – our Uniform Policy states that Summer and Winter uniform shirts are to be “tucked in”.

2. Girls’ skirt length – our Uniform Policy states that “Skirts are to be top of the knee-length”. If your daughter’s skirt does not meet this requirement, please ensure that this is addressed during the coming holiday break in readiness for a fresh start in Term 2.

3. Sport Uniform on approved days – please refer to the table on the Skoolbag App for the days your child is permitted to wear their Sport Uniform if they attend the subjects listed. All other subjects (such as Drama and Photography) should change into Sport Uniform for the lesson and then change back into normal uniform as required unless otherwise specified in subject specific excursion variation information from time to time.

4. Shoes – are to be black, enclosed leather lace-up school shoes with substantial soles and a distinct heel. The leather must cover the whole upper foot, (a ‘flow-through’ tongue’ is preferable), and not have a platform sole or extend over the ankle. This style meets safety requirements for practical subjects. Please note high-top boots (Doc Martin style) and skate shoes are not acceptable shoes to be worn as part of the College uniform.

Refer to our Uniform and Dress Standards Policy and our website for further information.

Thank you for partnering with us in our desire for our students to wear their correct uniform well.

From our Business Manager, Mr Bill Truscott

Joy is the theme of my year. To be truthful, I sometimes feel it’s an aspirational theme. However, I am finding that there is so much joy to be received from so many different sources.

I’ve just finished packing most of my house up and putting it into storage. Part of this process was sorting and dumping. I went full Marie Kondo and experienced the thrill of removing those things that didn’t inspire joy.

In staff devotions recently I observed one of our teachers share a meaningful story with us. Her beautiful children were so eager to help her during this time. I received joy in the pure simplicity of childlike faith and their young hearts for service.

Walking around our College grounds, I love watching plants grow and seeing fresh growth make our space just a little bit nicer. The recurrent joy of a flower or a new leaf brings refreshment.

Our Kindergarten kids end their first term as Kings and Queens. What a memorable fun way to celebrate the joy of big school.

Our Secondary students heading out to camp this week is certainly a joyful time. The new friendships, confidence, and life experience they all share this week will be life changing for many of them.

There is always joy to be found around us. It is easy to get distracted by things that don’t matter or something we can’t change. As we get to celebrate the joy of Easter and enjoy a break after a great term, I encourage you to relentlessly pursue overflowing joy. Overflowing joy is limitless, and is accompanied by peace, patience, kindness, faith, gentleness and strength (Galatians 5:22-23).

Prayer and Praise

Praise Points

~ The Easter season – that Jesus died and rose again, so that we may have life and life abundantly, and eternally

Prayer Points

~ Secondary camps this week – protection, fun, joy and the ability to learn resilience and teamwork
~ Year 12 students – that they continue to do their best, work and study hard and finish well during difficult and uncertain times
~ Protection for staff and students from contracting COVID, and that those who are suffering with COVID, that they recover quickly and well without lingering symptoms
~ Prayer for staff that are juggling health issues, work and families
~ Preparations for BCC’s 40th Birthday and the dinner on the 5th August
~ Protection for families during the Easter season, and that the holidays are a time of refreshing and rejuvenation
~ Our students know a real sense of belonging, are led to believing in Jesus as the Life-Giver and are becoming all He has purposed for them
~ Our leaders – State and Federal leaders, the College Board, Principal & Executive

Prayer Requests

In deeply challenging times such as these, we find our rest in the unchanging nature and faithfulness of our Heavenly Father.

As a Christian community we understand the significance and purpose of prayer. It is the heart-beat of our College. Together we boldly pray to our Father, through the work of His Son, in the power of the Spirit.

If you have a prayer request please complete the form here. We would love to pray for you specifically, and for your family, during this time of change.

“We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express” Romans 8:26b

Prayer Warriors

Parents are invited to join our prayer group on Mondays at 8:15am and Fridays at 2:15pm. We meet at the College flag pole after signing in at the College office. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions our meetings can also be held via Zoom. For more information please contact Wendy Robinson wendy@wendyrobinson.com.au or phone 0409987939. Everyone is welcome to join in.

Staff Update

We are pleased to have many new staff that have recently joined us here at the College.

Mrs Jessica Brown – Secondary Science / Maths Teacher
Miss Maisey Chaffe – Primary School Teacher
Mrs Beverly Eastaway – Finance Officer
Mrs Celeste Gill – Learning Enrichment Aide
Mrs Anna Gray – Learning Enrichment Aide
Mrs Laura Ioannides – Receptionist
Miss Trinity Maurer – TAS Aide
Mrs Rayanne McLean – Learning Enrichment Aide
Mr Joel Procter – Secondary Music Teacher
Mr Benjamin Prozinski – Secondary English Teacher
Mrs Danielle Prozinski – (Temporary) Secondary Visual Arts Teacher
Mrs Rochelle Scoular – Secondary TAS Teacher
Miss Emily Shield – Secondary Music Teacher
Miss Sarah Taylor – Learning Enrichment Aide
Mrs Tahlia Todd – (Temporary) Secondary PDHPE Teacher

Over the term you will have the opportunity to learn more about them in our Newsletter.

You may also like to read the Our People page on the College website to find out a little more about all of our staff.

Introducing…

Miss Emily Shield – Secondary Music Teacher

Where have you come from?
I am from Newcastle and have lived here my whole life. I have been studying Teaching at Avondale University.

What church do you attend?
I attend Wallsend Seventh-Day Adventist Church where I am involved in helping out with the youth groups and worship teams.

What are your interests?
My interests include music (especially playing the piano), anything related to crafting and sewing, and spending time with my family and friends.

A little bit about your new position at the College.
I am working part time at the College teaching Stage 4 Music. I’m also looking forward to helping out with ensembles and teaching other classes in the future.

Mrs Celeste Gill – Learning Enrichment Aide

Where have you come from?
My Name is Celeste Gill (formerly Celeste Gant), I grew up in Valentine, attended BCC and graduated in 2012. I am a trained youth worker, with a history of working in special education, and also have a double Diploma in Ministry and Theology from Morling College. I married my husband Lawson in 2017 and together we moved to Sydney following his employment. We have just moved back to Lake Macquarie in February.

What church do you attend?
We attend Belair Baptist Church in Adamstown, which is the church we both grew up in.

What are your interests?
I have two babies, and I love setting up sensory play activities for them to interact with.

A little bit about your new position at the College.
I will be working with the Learning Enrichment team, to review and update our documentation in the lead up to Census.

Any other information you’d like to share?
I am very much looking forward to joining the Team at BCC in Term 2.

Sport News

Primary NSW CIS Swimming Carnival

Belmont had three relay teams and 5 individuals swimming across a range of events at the Independent Schools State Swimming Carnival held last week at Sydney Olympic Park. This is the 4th carnival along the pathway. Two of the relays and five individuals made finals of their events, which is a great achievement.

Congratulations to our swimmers who have had a great representative season once again, including winning the two Zone titles and leading Hunter Zone to win the CSSA Championship.

Secondary CSSA State Swimming

Congratulations to all the swimmers who represented the College and THACCCSA Zone at the recent CSSA State Swimming Championships at SOPAC Sydney.

Age Champion
Aleksander Gillon – 2nd Place

Outstanding Results
Aleksander Gillon | Boys 13 50m Free – 1st, Boys 13 50m Fly -1st, Boys 13 100m Free – 2nd, Boys 13 50m Back – 1st
William Neppl | Boys 15 50m Fly – 3rd
Saibra Paterson | Girls 15 50m Breast – 3rd
Lachlan Rae | Boys 17&O 200m Free – 3rd
Victoria Robinson | Girls 11-19 50m Free Multi-Class – 3rd Girls, 11-19 50 Back Multi-Class – 2nd

Relays
Belmont CC Boys 15-16 4×50 Free – 2nd Aidan Rae, Zac Mawson, William Neppl, Zac Williams
Belmont CC Boys 17 & Over 4×50 Free – 2nd Luke Hall, Lachlan Rae, Taylor Donaldson, Logan Melcum
Belmont CC Boys 15-16 4×50 Medley – 2nd Zac Williams, Aidan Rae, William Neppl, Zac Mawson
Belmont CC 17 & Over 4×50 Medley – 3rd Lachlan Rae, Logan Melcum, Taylor Donaldson, Luke Hall

BCC Sport Website

For all Belmont Christian College event information, announcements, 2022 sports dates and results throughout the year visit: http://www.tinyurl.com/bccsport.

Careers News

University of Newcastle Upcoming Webinars

Thursday 5 May – TAFE 2 Uni Webinar

Time: 5:00pm-6:00pm

Click here to register

Is your child looking at studying a University degree after completing TAFE? You are invited to join the TAFE to Uni webinar.  Tune in to hear from our Admissions staff and Student Ambassadors who will cover the following topics: 

~ Info about our University
~ How to apply 
~ TAFE entry pathway 
~ Scholarships 
~ Support and services 

Student Ambassadors will share their experiences coming to uni via the TAFE pathway, and there will also be plenty of time to ask any questions. 

Wednesday 11 May – Joint Medical Program (JMP) Info Session

Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm

Click here to register

The Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD – JMP) is an innovative five-year degree that will prepare students for an exciting and rewarding medical career. Delivered in partnership with the University of New England, Hunter New England Local Health District and Central Coast Local Health District our students graduate ready to play a key role in shaping and improving future health care for individuals and communities. Students enrolled at the University of Newcastle have the opportunity to preference two different first year locations now, opening up the opportunity to study closer to home. This session will look at the JMP program and admission criteria, pathways and study locations, whilst getting firsthand experiences from current students and academics. Students will have the chance to hear from leading academics who teach into the program, as well as current students and junior doctors. Lots of opportunity for small group discussion.

Wednesday 25 May – 2022 Parent Info Session: Year 10 Subject Selection Webinar

Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm

Click here to register

Be supported through the subject selection process with our 3 simple steps! Both parents and students are encouraged to register for this digital event. Presented by a panel of current Student Ambassadors who will share their stories and experiences, the subject selection process will be covered (including the 3 simple steps on how to select HSC subjects), as well as case studies and examples, and some general University information.

Wednesday 1 June – Mid Year Info Session

Time: 5:00pm-6:00pm

Click here to register

Coming from TAFE, a different career or just wanting to give Uni a go? Join the Student Ambassadors as they share their stories and experiences of studying at the University of Newcastle. What Uni is like, how to balance work and study, different support services available, how to get in and more will be covered in this session. It also includes an opportunity for any questions.

Thursday 30 June – Parents and Carers Info Session

Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm

Click here to register

Parents and carers of prospective University students are invited to register for a webinar focussed on key admission dates, University ‘jargon’ explained, alternate pathways into University, fees, scholarships, and student support. This is a valuable session for parents and carers with students in Year 11 and 12. You will hear from Student Ambassadors sharing their stories about their transition from High School to University and their entry pathway. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions.

Uniform Shop News

Uniform Shop Information

College uniforms are provided by our uniform partner, Alinta Apparel.

To make an on-site fitting appointment, review prices or place an order online, create an account with Alinta Apparel here.

For enquiries phone: 0403 587 385 during opening hours or email: belmontchristian@alinta.com.au.

For further information regarding the College Uniform, please visit our uniform summary page and FAQs on our website at www.bcc.nsw.edu.au/uniform/

Uniform Requirements

Opening Hours

Our on-site Uniform Shop opens during term time on:

Tuesday 1pm – 3:30pm
Wednesday 1pm – 3:30pm
Thursday 8am – 11am

Closed During April School Holidays

The uniform shop will be closed during the April school holidays. Orders are available online.

Senior Secondary Blazers

A reminder for all Year 11 students who haven’t purchased a blazer for Term 2 to visit the Uniform Shop for a blazer fitting.

Winter Uniform Change-over Period

As we enter Winter, the first two weeks of Term 2 will be a change-over period from Summer to Winter uniform across the College. Students may choose to wear either their Winter or Summer uniform from their return Tuesday, 26th April. However, it must be one or the other and not a combination of both.

Uniform Donations

The College Office is no longer able to accept used uniform donations at this time as our supplies are full and overflowing. Please use the parent run Facebook page Belmont Christian College Buy, Swap and Sell School Uniforms or charity donation bins.

OSHC News

OSHC provided by Camp Australia

Belmont Christian College are pleased to offer a before and after school care program on-site through Camp Australia. The service is available from 7.00am to 8.40am and 2.50pm to 6.00pm each school day.

Register, book and manage your before and after school care bookings at www.campaustralia.com.au or call the Customer Service Team on 1300 105 343. Further information is also available on our website https://bcc.nsw.edu.au/oshc/

Fundraising with Entertainment Book

Entertainment Book Available Now

Entertainment Memberships are now 100% digital. Saying goodbye to the iconic Book wasn’t easy but the new Entertainment Memberships start anytime and are valid for 12 months from activation. Packed with thousands of substantial savings to delight and inspire, an Entertainment Membership is your pass to exclusive offers and quality experiences, activities and benefits. The digital membership is easy to download to start using instantly. New offers are added weekly for ongoing value all year round.

Benefits of the App include:

~ User-friendly: Instantly search and redeem offers or check out the Near Me tab to find offers, wherever you are.

~ Memberships start anytime: Flexible start date, Memberships are valid for 12 months from when you activate (16 months if you take advantage of the Early Bird offer now).

~ Multiple devices: You can still share your Membership with your family. Encourage your partner and kids to download the App so they can access valuable savings when out.

~ Convenient: The App means that as long as you have your phone, you have your Membership too (no more lugging around the book).

~ Easy gifting: We’ve made it simpler than ever to gift an Entertainment Membership – simply purchase from your chosen fundraiser and the gift Membership will be delivered instantly to your inbox.

Buy Now

Anzac Day March

Please join us in the Anzac Day March and Cullen Park Service. Our Secondary student leadership team are blessed to have a substantial role in this year’s commorative service to pay respect to those who fought for our country.

We will be meeting at 9.30am at High Street, Belmont on Monday, 25th April. Students are asked to wear their Formal Winter school uniform.

Mother’s Day Stall

Students from Kinder to Year 6 are invited to attend the Mother’s Day stall to be held at the College on Thursday, 5th May.

Parent volunteers are needed to assist the children with their purchases on the day. If you are able to assist please contact Fiona Burgess on college@bcc.nsw.edu.au. A current Working with Children Check would be required.

Mother's Day Stall, Mothers Day Flyer 2022

Opal Cards

Importance of Opal Cards Tap On and Off

We would like to emphasize again the importance of students tapping on and off with their Opal card every time they travel to and from school. When students receive their Opal card, it is a condition of use that students must tap on at the beginning of a trip and tap off at the end of a trip on the Opal card reader. Although school travel is free, this provides NSW Transport with very important information that allows them to better plan bus services for us by helping them to know how many services need to be provided for our College. We currently have some services that are full and we are not able to request an additional service if our student use levels do not reflect this. Alternatively we do not want any current services cancelled.

We would appreciate it if parents/carers could ensure their children have an Opal card and most importantly, are using their Opal card to tap on and off when travelling to and from school.

Click here to apply or replace an Opal card.

Upcoming Important Dates

Primary

Secondary

Whole College

08.4.22 | Last Day of Term 1
25.4.22 | Anzac Day March
26.4.22 | First Day Term 2

Our College Calendar is available on our website where you can be kept up-to-date with events throughout the year. Closer to the event parents and carers will receive communication via the Skoolbag App and/or email.

Beginners Easter Hat Parade

Students from BCC Beginners have been creatively busy at the end of this term decorating hats for the ‘Beginners Easter Hat Parade’.

Parents and family were invited to join and watch their child perform and participate in Easter activities. The good old ‘egg and spoon race’ and ‘easter egg hunt’ were a joy for all to participate in. Family stayed to have morning tea and a hot cross bun with their child in Beginners. A great way to finish Term 1 and celebrate God’s love for us!

BCC Local Business Directory

As a growing education community, we are keen to support local business. This is especially true for families within the BCC community who own and/or run their own business.

We have an opportunity to share your business details with the BCC Community. These details will be collated to form a BCC Local Business Directory. The BCC Local Business Directory will be made available on our College Website. It is FREE to participate.

Whilst ever you are parents/carers at the College, your business details will be displayed within the BCC Local Business Directory, if you so wish.

In addition, there will also be opportunities to further your business exposure across the BCC community via a range of sponsorship events, both onsite and offsite.

Click here to find out more about how to get your business involved.

Parent/Carer Support

The following activities and services are offered by external providers which may be beneficial to your family. These services focus on strengthening student’s wellbeing or academic capacity. While these are not explicitly from a Christian worldview, they do provide insights based on human wisdom and evidence based research. However, personal discretion will be required in whether these services align with your own beliefs. These are NOT fully endorsed by the College but are made available for families to make their own judgement and decision.

Raising Our Boys Well: From Babyhood to Adulthood Webinar

In this very special masterclass, ‘boy champion’ and mum of four sons Maggie Dent is joined by one of the world’s best-known parent educators, and a family psychologist for almost 30 years, Steve Biddulph, to empower parents and others in how to raise their boys with character. Steve has been working with men and writing international bestsellers about boys and manhood for three decades. This online masterclass will be live on Wednesday, 18th May at 8pm. Click here for more information and to Register.

Online Safety Alert – Huggy Wuggy

Parents, please go to the trouble of reading this article from ‘Safe on Social’, regarding online safety. It is important to be constantly vigilant in ensuring our children are safe and aware in terms of online interaction. We trust that this safety notice is of assistance to your children and family.