Course Counselling and Subject Selection

A Vital Step Towards the Future

At our school, course counselling and subject selection are more than just administrative tasks; they are essential steps in helping students shape their future pathways. We are proud to offer a comprehensive program supported by a fantastic and dedicated team, committed to guiding students through this important process. Through personalised conversations, we help students make informed choices based on their interests, strengths, and aspirations. Whether they're aiming for university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or employment, our focus is on aligning subject choices with individual goals to set each student up for success beyond school.

Thank you to all student managers, course counsellors and Mr Quinn for their dedicated support to the program.

Celebrating NAIDOC Week

Honouring Culture and Connection

NAIDOC Week is a vital time in our school community to recognise, celebrate, and deepen our understanding of the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. A highlight of our celebrations is the Smoking Ceremony, an ancient and sacred ritual that holds deep cultural significance. Performed by a respected Elder, the ceremony is a powerful act of cleansing and connection, clearing away negative energy, promoting healing, and welcoming people to Country. It reminds us of the enduring strength and resilience of the world’s oldest continuous cultures, and we are honoured to participate in this tradition as part of our ongoing journey toward reconciliation and respect.

Thank you to Mr Sharp for organising this day and for the associated presentations and musical performance. What an awesome experience!

Rollins Primary School visit

We were delighted to welcome students from Rollins Primary School for a recent visit to our school. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to experience our vibrant learning environment, meet our dedicated staff and students, and see our values in action. These visits are an important part of building strong connections with our local community and helping younger students feel confident and excited about their future transition to secondary school. We sincerely thank the visiting students and staff for their enthusiasm and engagement, we hope they left feeling inspired and welcomed.

Thank you to Mr Quinn and Mrs Tigani for their organisation of the visit.

Small Moments, Big Impact

The Power of Personalised Support

I was recently moved by a story shared by a dedicated Education Support person, highlighting the impact of genuine connection and personalised learning. A student who was struggling to engage in class was gently guided by the staff member, who took the time to explore the student’s interests. Discovering a passion for dinosaurs, the staff member cleverly incorporated this into a maths activity, estimating and measuring the size of the student’s favourite dinosaur. What followed was a beautiful moment: just days later, the student was confidently participating in the same maths class, without hesitation or nerves. These moments, while seemingly small, are a testament to the care and creativity of our staff, and they are happening every day across our school.

I’d like to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation for the incredible work of our Education Support staff. Their dedication and care play a vital role in helping teachers reach students who may not always engage easily within the mainstream classroom setting. As we continue to strengthen our focus on differentiation this year, the presence and expertise of our support staff have been instrumental. At NGSC, we are fortunate to have a wealth of support in place, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive, feel understood, and access learning in a way that works best for them.

Vocational Major Program

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The Vocational Major program has been reinvigorated this year and continues to impress with its engaging and hands-on learning experiences. This term, students have embarked on a series of meaningful community-based excursions, organised in collaboration with CatholicCare and Youth Justice. These opportunities allow students to connect with local organisations and explore real-world pathways. Recently, they engaged with the local fire brigade and the fOrT, gaining valuable insights into community service and career possibilities. I had the great pleasure of hearing about their experiences this week; it's clear the program is making a lasting impact.

Thanks to Ms Quick and her VM team for their inspired efforts to explore wonderful opportunities across our community.

Thanks to our school community for the positive start to Term 3. Students have settled back into classes and are engaging positively with their learning. Sports teams have already begun participating in interschool sports and have represented the school with enthusiasm and pride.

This term is busy:

• Year 10 Careers Week and Subject Selection: 4th-8th August
• Professional Planning Day: 12th August. No classes will be held.
• Year 7 Immunisations: 19th August. Students are to wear PE Uniform.
• School Production ‘Matilda’: 27th-29th August.
• Curriculum Day: 28th August. No classes will be held.

Progress Reports

Progress reports have been released to parents. Please read prior to Parent Teacher Conferences as they are useful to inform discussion and set goals.

NAIDOC Assembly

Students participated in a school assembly and smoking ceremony. The focus “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy” looked ahead to our future with hope and determination. All students exemplified the college value of ‘respect’ whilst learning from local elders.

College Musical ‘Matilda’

Students and staff have been busily rehearsing with enthusiasm and fun. Concerts are always a highlight of the year and showcases the talents of students in Performing Arts. Please join us . Tickets can be purchased at the Admin Office for $10.

Year 11 Course Counselling

Friday of Week 2 saw the Year 11 students choose their pathway into their final year of schooling. VCE students looked to build their subjects with the thought of university courses for 2027. Our Year 11 Vocational Major students looked to continue their VM programs and choose their VETs that will closely align with their career goals from 2027 and beyond.

Year 10 Careers Week

This week our Year 10 students traded their regular classes for future pathway planning. It began on Monday with an excursion to Victoria University in Melbourne to either the Footscray Park campus or the Sunshine TAFE campus to experience first-hand what life in tertiary studies might look like. Through Tuesday and Wednesday, students explored the various pathways, subjects and programs available to them through their senior studies, heard from College alumni about their journeys post high school, prepared for job applications, researched and planned for their dream careers and much more. The week culminated today with course counselling where students and their families met with a counsellor to make subject selections that would support the realisation of their career goals. The week has been a huge success, and the careers team should be congratulated for their efforts in organising and running the event.

Year 9 Subject Selection and Acceleration

During Week 4 the Year 9s will choose their Year 10 subjects. This is the first year they will have full choice over their timetable, being able to choose electives and their English and Maths levels. Some students may also choose to undertake a Year 11 VCE subject as part of their Year 10 course. Information about accelerating into a VCE class and the paperwork required to do so can be found on the Year 9 communication pages or Compass Newsfeed. If a student wishes to accelerate and is not sure of the process, they are urged to speak to one of their coordinators as soon as possible.

International Student Ambassador

We would like to congratulate Parmin Kadivar who has recently been appointed our North Geelong Secondary College International Student Ambassador for the next two years. Parmin has recently joined us from Iran and is completing Year 10. The ambassador role is a new role created in 2025 and Parmin is excited to speak at College events, represent the College for promotional pieces organised by the International Education Division and assist with the induction of new International Students at North Geelong. We wish Parmin luck with her new role!

We’re already halfway through Term 3, and the pace is picking up fast in the Senior School. Between SACs, subject selections, planning for the end of the year, and still trying to sneak in some kind of social life, our students have been keeping us (and themselves) very busy. The good news? We’re seeing plenty of determination, hard work, and leadership from our senior students — and that’s exactly what will set you up for success when the finish line comes into view.

Year 12 – Eyes on the Prize

• Sign-in / Sign-out:
  Arriving late or leaving early? This is your friendly reminder that the sign-in/sign-out process isn’t optional — it’s how we keep track of you and meet our duty of care. Every time you come or go, check in at the office and show your ID card with the ISP sticker. Think of it as your “school passport” — no sticker, no smooth travel.

• Arriving During Recess:
  If you’re lucky enough to start mid-morning, that’s great — but if you’re arriving during recess, be here early enough to get yourself settled before the bell. That means in the yard, bag away, ready for class… not jogging in with a half-eaten toasty as the second bell rings.

• Uniform Expectations:
  Full school uniform. Every. Single. Day. Sports uniform is for when you’re doing sport — not when you just feel like wearing tracksuit pants. Boys — that means being clean-shaven. The “I’ll just grow it out” look might work after school, but for now, we’re keeping it sharp. Think of it this way — turning up looking professional is great practice for the world beyond school.

• Independent Study Periods (ISPs):
  ISPs are a privilege, not a holiday. Use them wisely — in the Library, Common Room, or at home (if you’ve signed out properly). These periods are golden opportunities to get on top of work, revise, or catch up. Misuse them, and you risk losing them.

• Planning Ahead:
  Holiday revision lecture dates and a full “rest of the year” calendar are coming soon. This will include practice exams, graduation events, and VCAA exam schedules so you and your family can plan around them.

Year 11 – Gearing Up for the Final Year

• Subject Selections:
  You’ve made your choices for 2026 — well done! Choosing your Year 12 subjects isn’t easy, and we’ve seen students put real thought into their pathways. Now the challenge is to keep building the skills and work habits that will help you thrive next year.
• Uniform Reminder:
  Yes, it’s cold. No, hoodies are still not part of the uniform. Wear your school jumper or jacket — and if you’re feeling brave, remember that socks and the school skirt can still be worn without adding frostbite to your list of challenges.
• Year 12 Jumper Orders:
  The 2026 Year 12 jumper order window is closing soon. If you haven’t already tried one on, head to the Senior Sub School office, find your size, and record it with Miss Megan. Orders are available via the link on Google Classroom — don’t miss out and end up jumper-less next year.

Looking Ahead

The second half of Term 3 will disappear before we know it. Year 12s — you’ve got practice exams, holiday revision sessions, and the final sprint towards VCAA exams. Year 11s — your end-of-year exams and leadership applications are just around the corner. Families — we’ll publish a “Rest of Year” date guide very soon so you can map out what’s ahead.

Final Word

Senior years can feel like a juggling act — assessments, deadlines, work, sport, family, friends, and everything else life throws your way. The trick is to keep the balls in the air without letting them turn into bowling balls. Stay organised, show up ready, and keep giving your best.

Remember: you don’t have to be perfect — you just have to keep moving forward. The habits you build now will carry you well beyond the school gates. Let’s finish Term 3 strong, support each other, and make the last stretch of the year something to be proud of.

Welcome back! We hope everyone had a restful and refreshing break. Term 3 is now underway, and we’re excited for a busy and rewarding few months ahead. With key events, learning opportunities, and exciting activities planned, there’s plenty to look forward to.

Year 10 RESPECT Camp

A big congratulations to the 20 Year 10 students who headed off on their 5-day camp this week. This experience is a fantastic opportunity to build leadership, resilience, and teamwork skills in a unique and challenging environment.

We hope our campers enjoyed this exciting adventure and look forward to hearing all about it when they return!

Careers Week for Year 10 Students

This term, our Year 10 students will be taking part in Careers Week – a program designed to help them explore future pathways, develop career planning skills, and gain insight into different industries and post-school options. Sessions will include guest speakers, workshops, and time for students to reflect on their interests and goals.

Year 9/10 Course Counselling

Students in Years 9 and 10 will be supported through course counselling this term as they begin to shape their learning pathways for 2026 and beyond. Year 10 students at the end of Week 3, then Year 9 students end of Week 4. This is a key moment for students to make informed decisions about their subject selections based on strengths, interests, and future goals. We encourage parents to attend their interviews with Year 10 students and Year 9 parents to speak to their students about decision-making for their elective subjects for next year.

Junior School News

It has been a fantastic start to Term 3 for our Junior Sub School, with students embracing our weekly focus on positive behaviours and values. Each week we highlight a different aspect of our College values, celebrate students who exemplify these qualities, and award canteen vouchers to our winners.

Week 1 Focus – EXCELLENCE in the Classroom: "We are organised and committed to learn"

Year 7 winners: Thadar Htoo Wah and Hsa Ti Hna
Year 8 winners: Zanda Talerico and Jaydan Corbett

Week 2 Focus – RESPECT Always: "We show kindness to ourselves and others"

Year 7 winners: Madelena Bienfait and Costa Tsentidis
Year 8 winners: Lilly Williams and Mia Joldzic

Week 3 Focus – ACHIEVEMENT Outside: "We demonstrate fairness and pride in all outdoor activities"
Winners to be announced on Monday!

This week, all Year 7 and 8 students participated in an engaging Cyber Safety Workshop presented by Leading Senior Constable Leonie Hill. This session gave students valuable insights into staying safe online, making responsible choices, and understanding the importance of respectful digital interactions.

A reminder to all students and families about uniform expectations:

• Blazers must be worn with the academic uniform.
• No visible long-sleeve undergarments are to be worn beneath short-sleeve shirts, even during colder weather.

The full uniform policy is outlined in the student planner and is available on the College website.

We thank our students for their ongoing commitment to upholding the values of our College and look forward to another productive and positive term ahead.

This term in CONNECT, our students have explored a range of important and meaningful topics designed to support their wellbeing, personal growth, and cultural understanding.

We began the term by celebrating NAIDOC Week as a whole school. Students learnt about the significance of honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, including the meaning and traditions of smoking ceremonies; some students engaged in mindfulness colouring of Aboriginal artworks. The week concluded with a smoking ceremony following Friday’s whole school assembly, giving students the opportunity to actively participate in this important cultural practice.

In Week 2, CONNECT sessions were tailored to each year level to address key wellbeing themes:

• Year 7: Emotional Literacy – understanding and managing our emotions.
• Year 8: Mental Health – recognising signs of stress and knowing where to seek support.
• Year 9 & 10: Resilience – building the ability to adapt and bounce back from challenges.
• Year 11: Positive Self-Talk – developing a growth mindset and maintaining confidence.
• Year 12: Safer Socialising – making safe and informed choices.

We encourage families to continue these conversations at home. Talking with your child about what they have been learning in CONNECT helps strengthen their understanding, reinforces positive habits, and shows that their wellbeing and personal development are valued both at school and at home.

Senior Badminton

On Thursday 31st of July, the senior girls and boys competed in Interschool Badminton.

Nineteen students participated in matches against schools from across the Geelong region. Our second girls and first boys teams played very well but unfortunately did not make it through to the final. Our first girls team of Jasmine, King, Maria, Majahbin, Liling, and Sathana made it through to the Grand Final and played against Northern Bay College. The matches were close, and North Geelong eventually won two matches to one. All students represented the College extremely well, consistently displaying the school value of respect and achievement. Well done to all the players who made it through. 

The Senior Girls #1 team played in the Western Metro region finals on Tuesday 5th August at the Altona Badminton Centre. Up against teams from Suzanne Cory, Homestead Senior College and Gisborne Secondary College, the girls found it challenging, especially having to play singles (when only doubles are played in Geelong). They tried hard and managed to win their last match against Gisborne SC. Well done for making it the zone finals!

Senior Boys and Girls Table Tennis

Last week, Thursday 31st July, saw the Senior Boys and Girls participate in the interschool Table Tennis competition. The girls, with a tradition of playing together over the past few years, had a lot of fun and won some of their games, but not enough to finish on top of their pool. Well done to Lillah, Dayna, Sadie, Marli, Mikayla and Chelsea - thanks for representing the College in such a positive manner.

The boys had greater success, winning all of their matches to finish on top of their pool. They played against Grovedale College in the final and won all six matches. Congratulations to Niksa, Ethan, Louis, Lukas and Ekansh (who is only in Year 7!) for also representing the College in an exemplary manner.

Senior Boys Table Tennis - Western Metro finals

Wednesday 6th August saw the Senior Boys Table Tennis return to the Geelong Table Tennis Centre to take on teams from Suzanne Cory, Point Cook Senior College and Alice Miller School. Our boys played extremely well to end up on top of their pool. They played in a semi-final and advanced to the grand final - coming out winners! Congratulations to all the boys, particularly Niksa and Ekansh who were undefeated throughout the whole tournament. Bring on the State finals next week!

Senior Boys Soccer - Western Metro finals

The Senior Boys Soccer team earned the privilege to represent the Barwon/Bellarine district after defeating Western Heights last week. On Tuesday 5th August, after an early start to get on the road, they travelled to City Vista Recreation Reserve to take on Islamic College of Melbourne, Williamstown College and Staughton College. 

The first game saw them lose to Islamic College 1-0; then a draw with Williamstown College and finally, a triumphant victory over Staughton College 5-0, kick started by an extraordinary goal from the kick-off by Vuk.

The team played well in all games, but just couldn't score when it counted (until the last game). Congratulations on making it this far!

Year 10 Careers Day

On Wednesday 6th August, nine alumni agreed to assist with Year 10 Careers Day by being part of a panel discussion and then 'speed careers' sessions. They spoke about their pathway to their chosen profession or course of study.  A huge thank you to 

•Paris Junnoel-Mina 2024
•Kirsty McNamara 2013
•Ramy Ibrahim 2009
•Sam Balazs 2003
•Cedie Jimenez 2015
•Keily McKee 2021
•Skye DePalma 2013
•Brodie Orrock 2024
•Kellie Thistlethwaite 1988

After a panel discussion, the alumni moved to spots around the gym, where students were able to approach and ask questions to assist them in gaining more information about the alumni's pathway. Alumni then joined the students for morning tea.

I really appreciate the alumni returning to NGSC and giving back to the College community. If you would like to be a part of the ever-growing alumni community, please get in touch by emailing alumni@ngsc.com.au

Police Force talk

On Wednesday 6th August we also welcomed Moo K'Phru Say (2017) back to talk with students interested in joining the Police Force. She was accompanied by Senior Constable Dee Kuchenmeister. Together they were able to answer the enthusiastic questions from the small but interested audience. We thank both of these guests for giving up their time, particularly Moo K'Phru who has only just graduated from the Police Academy and agreed to attend (with very short notice) on her day off!

If you would like to be a part of the ever-growing alumni community, please get in touch by emailing alumni@ngsc.com.au

International Student Program

As our International Student Program is growing, a new role has been added to the Program:

North Geelong Secondary College International Student Ambassador

This has been awarded to Parmin Kadivar who is currently studying in Year 10. She is a passionate International Student who is grateful for this opportunity to represent our College. This role will allow the incoming International Students to feel welcomed to our College community.

A big congratulations to Parmin, you will represent the College well with your beautiful smile and kind nature.

What a wonderful start to Term 3 with the new arrival of International Students:

Chenxi (Mercy) ZHANG, Year 8 from China

Mercy commenced at the start of Term 3 and is studying at our College as a Temporary International Student until 15th August 2025 and entered directly into mainstream schooling. She has two NGSC students; Avery Hickmon and Hiraani Anderson taking her under their wing and assisting her with settling into the College. A BIG thankyou to these two amazing students for their guidance and support during Mercy’s time at our College.

Haocheng (Andy) CAO, Year 10 from China

Andy commenced at the start of Term 3 and has been welcomed into the English Language Centre. He has already made some wonderful friendships, and his English has already improved allowing him to structure conversations with peers already, a wonderful outcome.

Natan FALCIANI, Year 11 from Belgium

Natan commenced at the start of Term 3 and is studying at our College in Year 11. The classes are a little different to what he has experienced back home but is thoroughly enjoying the subjects that have been chosen and is challenging himself with the content.

Would you like to become a Homestay Family with the International Student Program?

By becoming a Homestay Family, you are making lifelong connections with international friends, which make the world feel smaller and more connected. Speaking and associating with different languages, is rewarding, it allows you to discover this common ground amongst us all. International Students start to feel like family in only a short period as the Homestay Families welcome and include them in their daily activities.

Hosting an International Student brings new life from other cultures into your home, breaking down borders to create an extended family. A weekly fee of $320.00 is paid to the family.

If you are interested in becoming a Homestay family, please email: Tonia.Tigani@education.vic.gov.au for more information. We would welcome all new families to be a part of this wonderful and exciting Program.

Welcome back to Term Three! We hope you had a restful winter break and are feeling recharged for the exciting term ahead.

This term, our focus turns to planning NGSC’s grand annual event — the Multicultural Day Festival, taking place on October 24, with this year’s inspiring theme: “One World.”

This much-loved tradition is a highlight on our school calendar, where we come together to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of our community. Each year, we aim to raise the bar — and 2025 will be no exception!

We’re calling for creative ideas, innovative activities, and engaging performances. Your input is highly valued — stay tuned for updates or, better yet, join us at our next meeting!

And back by popular demand — our renowned Homemade Cake Stall will return, delighting everyone with a live culinary showcase! We’re thrilled to welcome back Dragana, a dedicated parent and former student, who started this tradition over three decades ago and continues to wow us with her unique cake demonstrations.

Next Meeting: Monday, August 11
Time: 12:45 PM – 1:30 PM

The Multicultural Committee warmly welcomes contributions from students, staff, parents, and community members.

For more information, please contact the school office.
We look forward to seeing you there!

'Song Makers' Australian Performing Rights Association (APRA)

In July, the Year 11 and 12 VET Music students attended a two-day incursion presented by the Australian Performing Rights Association (APRA) called 'Song Makers'. The workshop was focused on writing and recording original music. 

On Day 1, students met their music industry mentors, each with impressive credentials as songwriters and producers. They were Liz Drummond, Seetali Mack and Yeo. The mentors ran songwriting activities before students broke off into groups and spent most of the day writing music and lyrics together. The mentors guided students through this process and helped them develop their creative ideas into structured pieces. Each group performed their completed song at the end of the first day. 

On Day 2, students spent time recording their songs with Yeo and Seetali, and taking part in a music careers workshop and QnA session with Liz. At the end of the day, we all came together for a listening party to hear all four of the completed songs. We were all incredibly impressed with the amazing songs and quality recordings that were created in just two days. 

I want to thank APRA and the brilliant mentors for sharing their expertise and skills with our students. It was fantastic to see students developing in confidence and collaborating in such a positive and inclusive way. The workshop helped our students develop the skills necessary for the VET Music course, but, most importantly, it provided them with an opportunity to work with some incredible artists and producers and learn about many jobs in the Australian music scene - an opportunity they won't soon forget!

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!

Bullying No Way Week 11^th-15^th August 2025

The Bullying No Way: National week of action will run from 11 to 15 August 2025.

The objective of Bullying No Way Week is to encourage whole-school communities to work together to implement evidence-informed, positive and proactive solutions to prevent and address bullying and violence.

This year’s theme is 'Be Bold. Be Kind. Speak Up.'

This theme supports schools to spread the word that everyone has a role in preventing bullying. Students and school staff are encouraged to speak up and foster safe spaces where everyone feels supported, respected and all voices are heard and valued. In school communities, speaking up against bullying is a powerful action against bullying.

Each year, thousands of schools from all across Australia join in to promote inclusion, respect and belonging. Together we want to make a stand against bullying.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student or member of the broader community, we invite you to join us. Everyone has a role to play in bullying prevention.

If you or someone you know are experiencing bullying and need support, contact your sub school, student wellbeing, a trusted teacher or visit https://bullyingnoway.gov.au/contact-us/need-help-now.

Dental Health Week 4^th-10^th August 2025

Dental Health Week (DHW) is the Australian Dental Association’s major annual oral health campaign.

We want all students to get the most out of school. Tooth decay can get in the way of learning. It can be painful and affect sleep and concentration. It is important to help children and young adults keep their mouth healthy and decay-free. Regular dental checks help spot and treat any problems early.

At Barwon Health all children aged zero to 18 years are eligible for FREE dental care!

You can contact any of the following services to make an appointment:

• Barwon Health North Phone: 03 4215 7240
• Belmont Community Health Centre Phone: 03 4215 6972
• Newcomb Community Health Centre Phone: 03 4215 7620
• Wathaurong Aboriginal Cooperative Phone: 5277 2038 (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders only)

Supporting Your Teen with Healthy Technology Use

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:

• Start by setting clear and consistent boundaries together. This might include no phones at the dinner table, screen-free time before bed, or keeping devices out of bedrooms overnight to support healthy sleep. Teens may resist at first, but consistency and calm conversation go a long way.
• Be curious and engaged, ask about their favourite games, apps or content creators. When teens feel that adults are genuinely interested (not just monitoring), they're more likely to open up if something goes wrong online.
• Modelling healthy habits is powerful. Show balance by taking tech breaks, prioritising face-to-face connection and setting limits for your own screen use.

Need extra support?

The eSafety Commissioner (www.esafety.gov.au) offers practical tips on managing online issues and setting boundaries.

The Raising Children Network (raisingchildren.net.au) also provides expert advice tailored to each age group.

Technology is part of modern life, with support, teens can learn to navigate it safely, respectfully, and with confidence.

Visit Uncloud to see vaping for what it is UNCLOUD

2025 Term 3 Regional Parenting Calendar

2025 Term 3 Regional Parenting Calendar

Geelong Circus Quirkus Shows 

Complimentary tickets available for the 2025 Geelong Circus Quirkus Shows at Geelong West Town Hall (one-hour show)

The Rotary Club of Highton hosts Circus Quirkus annually to provide a welcoming and relaxed live theatre experience for families in need and people in care. Tickets are sponsored by local businesses.

Bulk ticket orders from staff, as well as individual orders from families and carers, are welcome.

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!