POWER OUTAGE

Last Thursday, 26th March, the College experienced a significant power outage that affected the entire school. The incident was caused by a wood truck travelling with its claws extended, which clipped a power line, bringing it down. As a result, 17 switchboards across the College were damaged, causing a complete loss of power and all associated technology, including internet access.

What stood out most during this time was the way our staff and students responded. There was a calm acceptance of the situation, and learning continued despite the challenges. While there was some initial excitement from students at the prospect of using their phones in class, this privilege was largely respected. Students used their devices appropriately to access Compass, Google Drive, and email, demonstrating maturity and responsibility.

I would like to acknowledge the creativity and flexibility of our staff, who adapted their lessons at very short notice while continuing to keep students engaged in meaningful learning.

I also want to recognise the outstanding efforts of Jason Smith and the Maintenance Team, as well as Thomas Grantham and the Technology Team. They have worked tirelessly alongside the Department’s electricians and have been at the forefront of restoring the College’s operations. At this stage, we have identified 87 devices that will need to be repaired or replaced, with the goal of being fully operational by the beginning of Term 2.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the Department’s swift response. Trade staff were on site before lunchtime on Thursday, and over the weekend, eight electricians worked extensively to ensure power was restored in time for the start of the new week.

Well done on a successful Term 1

On behalf of the leadership team and staff, I would like to extend warm wishes to all students, parents, guardians, and members of the NGSC community for a safe and restful Easter break and school holidays.

Term 1 is always incredibly busy, and there is no real opportunity to ease into the year. Our senior students have already participated in their Orientation programs and are now familiar with the expectations of their subjects.

There have also been numerous sporting events and excursions, including opportunities for our visiting Grade 6 students to experience the College. The list of activities is extensive, and it reflects the energy and commitment within our school community.

I would like to acknowledge our students for their willingness to engage with their learning and tackle their studies with purpose. I also commend our staff for the care and dedication they show in ensuring that every student is supported in learning and achieving.

This break provides a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on their achievements in Term 1, celebrate their successes, and identify areas for growth. It has been a productive term, with Compass reports and other school data highlighting significant progress for most students.

I hope everyone had a peaceful and enjoyable break, spending quality time with family and loved ones. Once again, I wish all students, staff, parents, guardians, and the NGSC community a safe and restful holiday.

Term 2 Key Dates

School Council Elections

This year, we had five parent and two DE employee vacancies and two student vacancies.

At the close of call for nominations in the Parent Category for School Council, there were 6 nominees for the 4 vacancies.

The following parents were elected:

• Amanda Denny - two-year term.
• Virginnia Gilham - two-year term.
• Maggie Hubers Van Assenraad - two-year term
• Manan Jayswal - two-year term

Co-opted Community Member - David Milford

At the close of the nominations process in the Department of Education & Training DE Category of School Council, there was 1 nominee for 2 vacancies.

The following DE members were elected:

• Thomas Grantham - two-year term.
• Bayan Zareiadl - two-year term.
• Toni Tigani - two-year term.

At the close of the call for nominations in the Student Category of the School Council, there were 4 nominees for 2 vacancies. The following students were successful after an election and were elected:

• Tanishka Negi – one-year term (replacing Lucy Heitman)

Congratulations to all new members who have joined our School Council and thank you to all for showing interest in school governance. Working together makes a huge difference in improving student outcomes and students’ futures.

On behalf of the College community, I sincerely thank the outgoing council members (parents, students, and staff): Jasmina Blagojevic, Helen Peel, Madison Hayes, Tonia Tigani and Lucy Heitmann. Their contributions have been paramount to the life of our College Community.

I would like to congratulate Susan Davenport, who will continue as the school council president; Manan Jayswal, who will be the vice president; and Tonia Tigani, who will continue as the treasurer.

Parent Teacher Conferences

I would like to thank all parents and guardians who attended the recent parent-teacher conferences to discuss their child’s progress. We greatly value this partnership and the opportunity to work collaboratively to support each student in striving to reach their potential and growing as individuals.

The conferences provided a valuable opportunity to connect with staff, celebrate achievements, and set goals for the remainder of the year. They also allowed for meaningful conversations about strategies to further support students in their academic journey.

Athletics Day

It was fantastic to see such a high level of participation at Athletics Day. At times, there was a light drizzle, but it certainly didn’t dampen our students' enthusiasm or involvement throughout the day. While we celebrated some outstanding individual achievements, the true focus was on participation. This was clearly reflected in the success of the Purple Bullants, whose strong turnout across events played a significant role in their overall performance.

College Open Night

On Wednesday, March 12th, the school held its 2026 College Open Night. The event was incredibly well attended, with all seats filled and parents lining the perimeter of the gym.

As typified in the email below, there was so much positive feedback from parents and students. Feedback from parents and students was extremely positive with the school being “a buzz of activity”.

As Principal, I was incredibly proud of our staff, students, and school community. This event continues to evolve and improve each year, and this year was no exception. The atmosphere was electric, and the school spirit was truly unmatched.

A standout moment of the night was hearing from Year 7 parent Manan Jayswal, who spoke about his son Yuraj’s experience and the incredible support he received from both staff and students. He spoke about the supportive feel he noticed when he first toured the school, and that has been Yuraj’s experience this year.

I would first like to acknowledge the work of Steve Quinn, Tonia Tigani, and Penny Wilson in organising and publicising the night. Their foresight, innovation, and organisation were elite.

Steve made a point of thanking the following staff and students:

• IT team
• Maintenance (hanging banners, gym set up, etc)
• Louis Smith and Tanishka Nagi Year 12 Captains - running the assembly
• Dallas Grgurevic and Benish Hussain for their Year 7 speeches
• Manan Jayswal (Yuvraj’s Dad) - Parent speech
• KLA leaders and staff volunteers - incredible displays and interacted with the parents with enthusiasm
• Alumni (looking splendid in their red shirts)
• Parent volunteers
• Student volunteers (over 80 students volunteered for the night)

I cannot speak highly enough of the NGSC's commitment to the night and the willingness of all involved to go above and beyond.

Harmony Day

On Monday, 23 March, the College celebrated Harmony Day. It was wonderful to see so many students proudly wearing their traditional dress.

In my address, I spoke about the harmony I witness each day in our yard, friendships formed through shared interests such as music, sport, and gaming, rather than defined by skin colour or cultural background. Observing these interactions, both in the yard and in the classroom, is one of the great privileges I have as Principal of NGSC, and it brings me immense satisfaction.

At times, I wish I could capture this sense of harmony and share it with parts of the world where such acceptance is not yet realised.

I also spoke about the strength of our diversity as a school community. It is one of our greatest assets, providing us with the opportunity to deepen our understanding of different cultures and perspectives. It is important that we continue to challenge and reject the false narratives promoted by racism and instead embrace the respect and inclusion that define our College.

60th Anniversary

This year, the College is celebrating its 60th Anniversary. The photo below of our inaugural staff and students, shows how much the school has grown, but the haircuts are not that different. On Wednesday 25^th March, the school conducted tours and an afternoon tea of the school for alumni, and it was pleasing to nearly 100 past students touring and reminiscing about their experiences in High School.

Below is a copy of the speech that I gave on Wednesday afternoon.

Welcome to the 60th Anniversary of North Geelong Secondary College.

My name is Paul Dawson, and I am the incredibly proud Principal of North Geelong Secondary College. It is a privilege to stand before you today as we celebrate this significant milestone in our college’s history.

I would like to sincerely thank each and every one of you for joining us today and for taking the time to be part of this special occasion.

This is a significant milestone that not every school has the privilege of reaching. It speaks to the strength, resilience, and adaptability of our College community across generations.

Over the past six decades, the College has experienced profound demographic change. With each shift, it has not only responded but evolved continually, adapting to meet the needs of an ever-changing population.

Sixty years ago, our founding principal, Don Kendall, recognised a critical need. He saw that many students were arriving from overseas, facing the dual challenge of settling into a new country while also learning a new language. With remarkable foresight and deep compassion, he ensured that these students were supported, valued, and given every opportunity to succeed.

That commitment is a defining part of our history, and it remains a defining part of who we are today. Students have come in waves from Italy, Greece, the Balkans, Vietnam, Afghanistan, a number of African countries, the Koren and Karenni to name a few. They have all contributed to the rich tapestry that makes NGSC so special.

The significance of this legacy should not be underestimated. Sixty years on, North Geelong Secondary College continues to provide that same support to students from diverse backgrounds. It is not simply a program or an initiative; it is embedded in our identity.

Indeed, Diversity is one of our four core values. We do not just acknowledge diversity; we celebrate it as a strength. It enriches our school community and provides our students with the invaluable opportunity to experience, understand, and learn from cultures from all around the world.

The College has continually adapted to meet the ever-evolving educational needs of our students, whether through innovations in curriculum, the integration of technology, or the development of diverse and meaningful career pathways. This adaptability has been and continues to be essential in ensuring that every student is supported in achieving success.

It is also worth noting that, due to our relatively small local zone, more than 80% of our students come from outside the College’s designated area. This is a powerful reflection of the trust that families place in North Geelong Secondary College and the reputation that has been built within the wider community over the last 60 years.

I would like to thank you all for attending today. I hope that your return to the College has rekindled positive memories and brought a smile to your face.

As we reach the end of a busy and rewarding term, we would like to thank families for their support and celebrate the efforts of our students and our community. This term has been filled with learning opportunities, sports events, camps and special days such as Harmony Day. We congratulate all students on their work and progress, whether in academics, sports, the arts or personal development.

Athletics Day

Despite the clouds gathering overhead and the minor inconveniences posed by our ongoing building works, Athletics Day proved to be an absolutely wonderful celebration of school spirit, teamwork, and determination! Students from every house pushed themselves to their limits across a fantastic range of track and field events, cheering each other on with tremendous enthusiasm throughout the day.

A special mention must go to every single student who gave their all regardless of the weather. Your resilience and sportsmanship made the day truly memorable. After all the points were tallied, here are the final house results:

🥇 Purple — 658 

🥈 Aqua — 561 

🥉 Orange — 514 

🏅 Silver — 351

Congratulations to Purple House on a brilliant victory and well done to all houses for making it such a spirited and joyful day!

NAPLAN

NAPLAN has been successfully implemented this year, with Year 7 and Year 9 students completing their assessments and what an effort it was! Despite some frustrating departmental internet issues along the way, our students handled the disruptions with maturity and composure, powering through to get the job done. We are incredibly proud of the resilience shown by both students and staff in making it happen. If you have any questions about the assessments or results, please don't hesitate to reach out to the school office.

Harmony Day

Harmony Day was a fantastic celebration of our diverse and inclusive school community, and this year it was filled with energy, fun, and plenty of community spirit! Students and staff came together across a range of exciting events, including:

● 🎉 Cultural Quiz held in the L Block open space, with a prize up for grabs for the winning team. Stay tuned for the winner announcement!

● 🎤 Open Mic in the Piazza, which came alive with performances that showcased the incredible talents within our school community.

● 🏐 Year 7 & 8 House Dodgeball in the gym, buzzing with competitive energy as houses went head-to-head in a spirited dodgeball tournament.

A highlight of the day was the fundraising effort, with all money raised being donated to Cultura, a wonderful cause that reflects the values of inclusion and community that Harmony Day is all about. Thank you to everyone who contributed, participated, and helped make the day such a memorable one.

House Cup — Race to Cape York!

The House Cup is well and truly underway, and the excitement is building! Each house is on a virtual journey from Geelong all the way to Cape York, the most northern point of Australia, a massive 3,600 km adventure. Houses earn kilometres by collecting green entries and entering various competitions, and points from Athletics Day also count towards the journey. The first house to reach Cape York will earn a special house reward, so every point counts!

Here's where things stand right now:

Purple Bullants are leading the charge, having already travelled an impressive 1,500 km. They are 41% of the way to Cape York and setting the pace for all other houses!

Can the other houses close the gap? Keep earning those points, making those green entries, and watch this space for updates as our houses race north. Cape York is calling — who will get there first?

Student Focus Groups

On Wednesday, a combination of students from the SRC and non-SRC self-nominated to be part of a focus group to reflect on some key areas of the school and what the students have said on the Attitude to School Survey last year. The areas discussed were:

• Managing bullying
• Student Voice and Agency
• Emotional Awareness and Regulation
• Stimulated Learning
• Learning Confidence
• Resilience

We had great interaction and discussion and have taken some great ideas on how we can improve our practice in key areas of learning and student development. We encourage all students that wish to have the voice heard to seek out opportunities and volunteer for events like this in the future.

Athletics Carnival – Speed, Spirit and a Few Questionable Outfits

Forget the Commonwealth Games, our Athletics Carnival once again delivered elite competition… and even more elite costume choices. From inflatable animals to retro athletes and everything in between, the effort was outstanding. The incredible organisation and spirit shown by our students was a standout, and perhaps something that could even offer a few lessons beyond the school gates when it comes to pulling together a well-structured plan or contract agreement.

Despite some classic Geelong conditions (a bit of rain just to keep things interesting), students embraced the day with great energy and enthusiasm. On the track and in the field, they showed determination, resilience, and plenty of house pride. In between events, the cheering squads arguably worked just as hard.

With everything running as planned, it was great to see such a smooth day in what a slightly disrupted start to the term has otherwise been — a credit to the organisation and flexibility of everyone involved.

A huge well done to all students who got involved, whether you were sprinting for glory or digging deep in the 3000m. A fantastic day all round!

SAC Season Has Arrived – Time to Lock In

We have officially hit that point in the term where SACs begin appearing… everywhere. Welcome to the organised chaos of assessment season.

Now is the time to:

• Get organised
• Stay on top of your revision
• Ask for help early

Yes, you can still have a social life… but maybe earn it first. Future you will be very grateful.

Parents, this is your moment:

• Snacks = essential
• Encouragement = powerful
• A well-timed check-in = appreciated

We’re all in this together.

Uniform Reminder – Setting the Standard

As the weather starts to cool, we’re seeing a few creative interpretations of the uniform.

A quick reminder:

• Hoodies are not part of school uniform
• Correct school shoes (not black runners)
• Clean-shaven and neat presentation

Our senior students set the tone for the school. Wearing the uniform with pride reflects a readiness to learn and lead.

Senior School Catch-Up Sessions – We’ve Got You Covered

If things have fallen slightly behind, we’ve got a plan in place to support you.

Catch-up sessions run every Tuesday from 3:20pm to 4:30pm and are available for students needing to:

• Complete SACs
• Sit redemptions
• Catch up on coursework

Your YLC will let you know if you are required to attend. Think of it as an opportunity to reset and get back on track.

Attendance and Progress – Staying on Track

As we approach the end of term, progress reports are just around the corner. It is a good time for a quick reset and reflection.

Key reminders:

• Students must maintain 80% attendance
• Being present is essential to meeting outcomes
• Consistency now sets up success later

While it can be tempting to catch up later, being in class remains the most effective way to stay on top of learning.

Let’s finish the term strongly and make the most of the opportunities ahead.

Final Stretch of Term 1

We are nearly there. One more push.

Let’s aim for consistency, effort, and a positive finish to the term.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support.

Middle Sub school News – A Strong Finish to Term 1

As we wrap up a busy and rewarding term, I would like to take a moment to celebrate the many achievements and experiences of our Middle Sub school students at North Geelong Secondary College.

Year Level School Captains

I am very pleased to announce our Year Level School Captains for 2026. These students have demonstrated outstanding leadership, responsibility and a genuine commitment to our school community.

Congratulations to all students selected for these roles, we look forward to working closely with you as you represent your year levels and contribute positively to our college.

Athletics Carnival Success

Our annual Athletics Carnival was once again a fantastic success. It was wonderful to see such high levels of participation, house spirit and encouragement across all year levels.

Students should be commended not only for their efforts in competition, but also for the way they supported one another throughout the day. Events like these are a great reminder of the strong sense of community we have within our Middle Sub School.

Progress Reports & Upcoming Parent/Teacher Interviews

Progress Reports have now been released, providing an important snapshot of student learning, effort and achievement so far this year. I encourage all families to take the time to review these reports together and celebrate successes, while also identifying areas for continued growth.

Our Parent/Teacher Interviews provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen the partnership between home and school. These conversations are key to supporting each student’s progress and setting goals for the term ahead.

Year 9 Highlights

NAPLAN Achievement

Congratulations to our Year 9 students on successfully completing their final NAPLAN testing period. Students approached these assessments with maturity and focus and should be proud of their efforts in demonstrating their literacy and numeracy skills.

Morrisby Testing & Career Conversations

All Year 9 students have now completed Morrisby Testing, an important step in exploring their individual strengths, interests and potential career pathways.

We now look forward to the Morrisby interviews, which will take place over the first two weeks of Term 2. These sessions will help students better understand their results and begin making informed decisions about future subject selections and pathways.

School for Student Leadership

Congratulations to the three Year 9 students who have been selected to attend the School for Student Leadership – Phoenix Mercer, Eli Sailor, and Braxton Birkett-Vipont

This is a highly regarded Victorian program that provides students with the opportunity to participate in an immersive residential experience focused on developing leadership skills, teamwork, resilience and personal growth. Students will engage in a range of outdoor and community-based activities designed to challenge and inspire them.

We wish these students the very best as they take on this exciting opportunity. We look forward to hearing about their experiences when they return.

Year 10 Highlights

Year 10 Workshop Day – Wellbeing & Connection

On Tuesday 31 March (Week 10), all Year 10 students will participate in a full-day wellbeing workshop during the school day.

These workshops have been organised in response to valuable student feedback from Be Bold Be Heard, SRC and classroom discussions. The focus is on strengthening connections, supporting mental wellbeing, and providing students with practical tools to support themselves and others.

Students will take part in one of the following programs:

• The Man Cave – Level 2: Supporting Others (male students)
• Big Sister Experience – Level 1: Exploring Self (female students)
• Both programs aim to build self-awareness, promote healthy relationships, increase confidence and strengthen supportive peer connections.

Further information will be shared shortly, including a short pre-workshop survey that students will be required to complete prior to the day.

Looking Ahead

I would like to congratulate all our Middle Years Students on a successful and productive first term of 2026. It has been wonderful to see the effort, growth and engagement across all year levels.

We look forward to building on this momentum in Term 2 and continuing to support every student in achieving their personal best.

It has been another busy and positive period in the Junior Sub School, with students continuing to demonstrate strong engagement, resilience and pride in our college community.

Year 7 NAPLAN

Our Year 7 students have now successfully completed their NAPLAN assessments. We commend them for the way they approached the testing period with focus and persistence. It was pleasing to see students applying their best effort and demonstrating resilience throughout the process.

Athletics Day Success

Our recent Athletics Day was a fantastic success, with high levels of participation, enthusiasm and house spirit on display. It was great to see so many students getting involved, dressing in house colours, supporting their peers and striving for their personal best. Thank you to all staff and students who contributed to making the day run so smoothly.

Parent Teacher Conferences

Parent Teacher Conferences were held on Wednesday 1st April. These meetings provided a valuable opportunity for families to connect with teachers, discuss student progress and celebrate positive outcomes. Thus encouraged all families to take this opportunity to check in, build strong home-school partnerships and support students in achieving continued success. 

Uniform Reminder

A reminder to all students and families regarding uniform expectations:

• PE uniform is to be worn on designated PE days only
• Hair colour should remain within natural tones
• Blazer is to be worn with the academic uniform

Our Connect program continues to play a vital role in strengthening student wellbeing across North Geelong Secondary College, with a strong focus on building resilience, emotional literacy and a sense of belonging within our school community.

Whole School Excursion – Discovering The Resilience Project

As part of our commitment to embedding The Resilience Project into our Connect program in 2026, all students will be attending a whole-school excursion to GMHBA Stadium.

On Tuesday 21st April:

• Years 7–9 will attend in the morning
• Years 10–12 will attend in the afternoon

Students will participate in an engaging, high-energy presentation from Martin Heppell. Through storytelling, humour and relatable experiences, Martin will share simple, practical strategies that students can use in their everyday lives to improve their wellbeing. This experience will further strengthen our whole-school approach to wellbeing and resilience.

• Cost: No cost to families
• Consent: Required via Compass by 1st April, 11:59pm

Parent/Carer Session Opportunity

We are also excited to offer a parent/carer session run by The Resilience Project on Wednesday 22nd April at GMHBA stadium. This session will provide families with valuable insights and practical strategies to support wellbeing at home.

Families are encouraged to attend and can register via the QR code provided.

Celebrating Harmony Day

Recently, our college proudly celebrated Harmony Day, recognising and embracing the diversity within our school community. Students participated in activities that promoted inclusion, respect and understanding of different cultures and backgrounds. A highlight of the week was a collaborative Connect lesson where Year 7 and Year 11 students worked together, building connections across year levels and fostering a strong sense of belonging. These shared experiences are an important part of creating a supportive and inclusive school environment.

Connect Learning Focus

Throughout Connect lessons, students have been developing their emotional literacy, learning to recognise, understand and manage their emotions. A key focus has also been building an understanding of resilience—what it is, why it is important and how students can apply it in everyday challenges such as friendships, learning and personal setbacks.

Students have explored how resilience is not about avoiding challenges, but about responding positively, learning from experiences and continuing to grow.

Tip for Home – Building Empathy

A simple way to support your child’s wellbeing at home is through developing empathy. Try asking your child:

• “What is something kind someone did for you today?”
• “How do you think someone else felt in that situation?”

These conversations help students build emotional awareness, strengthen relationships and develop a deeper understanding of others.

2026 Athletics Sports Results

Well, the weather was not perfect but that did not dampen the enthusiasm of both students and teachers. Everyone is to be thanked for their effort in making the event a success. We once again had some amazing outfits that added to the excitement of the day. Due to the renovations at Landy field we had to be flexible in terms of a First Aid area and a Canteen/BBQ. The staff and students working these make-shift areas are to be thanked for their extra efforts.

The next level of competition will be in Term 2 against other schools in the Bellarine Division in Week 2 on Thursday April 30th. The school team is posted in the gym foyer windows and on Compass.

New Records

• Myah Smith 12-15Y Girls 800m Walk 4:17.11 min (2017)
• Xander Mitchell 15Y Boys Javelin 40.45m (2006)
• Gurman Kaur 12-13Y Girls Javelin 24.20m (1999)
• Dan Bilinski Boys 17-20Y Boys 800m 2:05.01m (2025)

Age Champions

BOYS GIRLS

12-13 Altaf Hussain (Aqua) Samira Haidari (Silver)

14 Ned Bubb (Silver) Ava Marsden (Orange)

15 Anthony Adrien (Purple) Ehp’saw Dahdait (Orange)

16 Henry Lugg (Aqua) Sadie Dorais (Aqua)

17 Lincoln Peel (Aqua) Gianna Lway (Purple)

18-20 Xavier Wiese (Orange) Eq.Maria Pagtolon-an (Purple) Sarah Ivey (Purple)

Overall Results

PURPLE 658

AQUA 561

ORANGE 514

SILVER 351

Highest Participation Award - Purple

Most improved from 2025– Aqua

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!

To celebrate international Pi Day on March 14th the NGSC maths department gave away free pies!

Students from year’s 7-12 eagerly ran round the school at lunch time reciting Pi to yard duty teachers, in exchange they were given a voucher, which entitled them to a pie of their choice, sweet or savoury.

The number Pi,𝞹 , is a mathematical constant that represents the ratio between the circumference of a circle and its diameter.

The first record of this constant ratio being used has been dated to nearly 4000 years ago when the Egyptians and Babylonians used 𝞹.

Today, with the aid of computers, we have calculated 𝞹 to trillions of decimal places. However, at NGSC we will only focus on the first 20, being 3.14159265358979323846.

International 𝞹 Day originated in the USA, a country that places the month before the day, hence March 14th or 3/14 is the day we celebrate!

Alumni News

On Friday 20th March, the VCE VM Numeracy class had the opportunity to hear from David Posterino (Class of 2003), who shared his insights on interest, investing, and superannuation. Building on sessions from previous guest speakers Miguel and Erfan—who explored banking, loans, and credit and debit cards—David brought the topic to life with engaging stories from his AFL ambitions, the challenges he faced along the way, and his path through various careers before returning to study as a mature-age student and becoming a financial adviser. Today, he manages client portfolios worth millions of dollars. It’s safe to say the students were especially curious about one thing—his watch! (though David revealed it wasn’t even his most expensive).

David has been incredibly generous in giving back to NGSC, having spoken to multiple groups over the years and establishing a scholarship for students in the Year 7/8 Excellence in Sport program.

Thank you, David—we greatly appreciate your support of North Geelong Secondary College.

60th Anniversary Celebrations

On Wednesday, 25th March, we shared 60th anniversary celebrations with past students and teachers of North Geelong High School/North Geelong Secondary College. 

The Principal Class Officers led tours of the school, showcasing the changes over the years and highlighting some of the many programs we run in the College.

Guests then gathered in the main staffroom for a short speech by the Principal. There was a great buzz in the air with many excited conversations between peers and past teachers, whilst enjoying a pleasant afternoon tea.

Banners depicting events from each of the decades since 1966 were displayed and guests were able to peruse these, often providing stimulus for laughter and chat!

A big thank you to all the organising team, and the Principal class for their support.

Healthy School News

Raising Body Kind Teens

Delivered by the experts at Butterfly Foundation, this 75-minute webinar aimed at parents of teens provides practical strategies for reducing the focus on appearance and body comparisons, increasing self-compassion and body appreciation, supporting healthy attitudes towards eating and movement in teens, responding to negative self-talk and appearance-related teasing, and what to do if you are concerned.

Date: Thursday, 9 April 2026

Time: 7pm – 8.15pm (AEST), plus question time

Via Zoom: Time limited recording available

Register Here: Event Details

Cost: $15

Dental Health

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)

For more information on Oral health for children and teenagers | Better Health Channel

Food 4 Future at the library these April school holidays

Food 4 Future brings young people together for free workshops on food and life skills like meal planning, budgeting, shopping, and cooking.
Participants also complete a TAFE food handling certificate to boost their employability.

• Free to attend
• For those aged 15-24
• Food and snacks provided
• Take home a prepared meal, a basic kitchen kit, and a fresh veggie box!

Running at Corio, Newcomb, Colac, Boronggook Drysdale libraries in the April school holidays. Limited spots available – bookings essential.

Register here: Events - Geelong Regional Libraries

Youth Off The Streets - National Scholarship Program

Youth Off The Streets is a not-for-profit youth services organisation that supports 12 - 24-year-olds experiencing or at risk of homelessness and complex disadvantage.

Every year, over 25 young people throughout Australia are awarded Youth Off The Streets scholarships valued at $6,000 to pursue further education or training, and work towards a positive future.

Nominations close at 4:00pm on Friday 15 May 2026.

Submit your scholarship nomination here: Scholarship Program for Young People | Youth Off The Streets

Legal Link Up Youth Survey

The Legal Link Up Project is creating short videos and info to help young people deal with real-life stuff — work rights, fines, renting, school rules, online safety, money stress and more. To make it useful, they need your input.

Take the quick 2‑minute survey and tell Barwon Community Legal Services what issues matter most to you, and go into the draw to win one of five $50 Coles Gift Cards.

Entries close 31 March. One entry per person.

Survey link here: Legal Link Up - Youth Survey

Unplugged at The Nest

Free All Ages Open Mic!

🎤 Unplugged at The Nest

📅 Saturday 28th March

⏰ 2pm-6pm

📍 The Nest Youth Hub, 17 Gheringhap Street, Geelong Vic, 3220

💲 FREE! Registration required and limited spots available.

Unplugged at The Nest

Help shape City of Greater Geelong’s - youth brand

Young people aged 12–25 are invited to help shape the design of a fresh new identity for youth services, making it easier to find programs, get involved and feel connected.

Insights from the 2025 Geelong Youth Survey and Youth Council show young people want:

• clear, easy-to-find info about programs and events
• more opportunities to have their ideas heard
• communication that feels youth focused and easy to recognise

Ways to get involved:

• Complete a short online survey
• Share your ideas at our youth hubs
• Join our co-design workshop (and go in the draw for one of five $100 vouchers)

Engagement runs from Monday 16 March – Sunday 26 April.

For more information: Youth Brand and Identity | Have Your Say

Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula and Bannockburn Bus Network Review

Transport Victoria want to hear about your experiences, travel choices and destinations.
You can provide feedback on local bus routes and let them know how you’d like to use the bus network in the future.

This survey will take about 7 minutes to complete.
Consultation closes on Sunday 12 April 2026.

For mor information: Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula and Bannockburn Bus Network Review | Engage Victoria

Provide First Aid & CPR (HLTAID011)

Learn the skills and knowledge to recognise emergencies and provide immediate and effective first aid treatment to any person suffering a sudden illness or injury.

You will learn basic anatomy, physiology and the differences between adults, children and infants relating to CPR, the importance of the chain of survival and the written and verbal reporting of incident details.

This is a blended, accredited short course that will require pre-work to be completed online.

Date: Wednesday, 15 April 2026
Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Location: The Nest Youth Hub
Age requirement: Must be aged 15 to 25 at the time of completing course.
Participants must have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) to register for the course.

To register email: youthcommunitydevelopment@geelongcity.vic.gov.au.

The Get Active Kids Voucher Program is now open!

The Get Active Kids Voucher Program is now open! Get in quick as applications will close at 10am on 2 April or earlier if the budget allocation is fully 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 10 open to apply for a voucher or reimbursement: 10am on Tuesday, 3 March 2026 and will close 10am on 2 April or earlier if the budget allocation is fully exhausted.

Reimbursement expenditure dates: from 1 January 2026 to submission of application​

Vouchers expiry date: Wednesday, 29 April 2026.

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

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!