Issue 11
17 Oct 2025

We hope all members of the Geelong community enjoyed some quality family time over the holidays. While the finals didn’t end the way Geelong supporters might have expected, there is still plenty of pride to be taken in the team’s gallant efforts. They did manage to defeat my team, Hawthorn. With the arrival of Spring, longer days and (hopefully!) warmer weather, it’s refreshing to feel the change in seasons.

As always, families are encouraged to contact their child’s teachers or coordinators if they have any concerns about progress. The College values a team approach to education and recognises the critical role parents and guardians play in every student’s success.

Term 4 is always a busy period, as we wrap up the 2025 school year and begin planning for 2026.

Term 4 Key Dates

Year 12: The Final Countdown

The final days of secondary schooling are approaching for our Year 12 students. At present, VCE VM students are completing interviews and finalising coursework to meet their outcome. The VCE VM interviews were a great celebration of the years' work and the confidence and professionalism the students showed was a credit to not only their VCE VM teachers, but all of their teachers throughout their schooling. The VCE-scored students are attending revision classes, which will continue right up until their exams, a practice not matched by any other school in Geelong. The College believes that this practice has had a significant impact in helping the students prepare for their exams in a supportive environment surrounded by like-minded students.

We are also very pleased to report 100% attendance at the recent practice exams held over the holidays, with the only absence due to a confirmed illness. VCE students will be at school up until their VCAA exams. They will spend this time revising in class and will also have the opportunity to work in study groups with their peers, engaging in peer-based learning.

I wish all VCE students the very best for their upcoming examinations. Staff are ready to support them, and I strongly encourage students to take full advantage of this assistance to help them prepare and achieve success.

Finalising Subject Selection and Booklists

During Term 3, the College conducted an extensive subject selection process. This included consultations with teachers, reviews of assessments, and presentations on careers and subject pathways. The process was designed to ensure students made informed decisions about their future studies.

In the coming weeks, students will receive confirmation of their 2026 subject selections and begin making their booklist choices. If any concerns arise, they are encouraged to speak with their Sub School Manager for clarification and support.

Subject choices should align with both curriculum requirements and future career pathways. While we understand that interests may change, students must discuss their decisions with staff, parents, and friends to ensure they select subjects that best support their goals and aspirations.

Multicultural Festival

Next Friday marks one of the most significant days on the College calendar — Multicultural Day, a vibrant celebration of our school’s diversity. Students will proudly wear traditional dress representing their cultural heritage, and the day will showcase an exciting mix of music, dance, workshops, arts and crafts, amusement rides, and delicious food from around the globe.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work of all staff and students who contribute to making this event such a success each year. In particular, I want to recognise Suzanne Henry, whose leadership and dedication have been central to the planning and development of the day. Multicultural Day is not only a highlight for the College, but a celebration embraced by the wider NGSC community.

Exams 7-11

Students in Years 7 to 11 are now preparing for their end-of-year exams. These assessments act as necessary stepping stones towards their final Year 12 exams and, for many, future University studies.

The exams are intentionally designed to help students practise responding to questions while becoming familiar with the exam environment and procedures. This approach reduces anxiety and builds confidence over time. They will also provide teachers with information on how well students have understood the content.

The College has seen steady improvement in VCE exam results each year, in part due to this structured, progressive preparation.

Be Bold Be Heard Forum

Last week, I had the pleasure of seeing female students from four schools prepare for the upcoming Be Bold Be Heard Forum, which they will be leading for the first time. Students from North Geelong Secondary College, Geelong High School, Newcomb Secondary College, and Sacred Heart College came together to plan the day’s activities and then took charge of their implementation.

It was inspiring to witness first hand the skills, leadership, and confidence that Be Bold Be Heard continues to foster in our students. This marks an exciting next step in their development and it is particularly pleasing to see the event evolve into a fully student-led experience.

Year 12 VCE-VM Portfolio Presentations

We were thrilled to be part of this year's panel for our VCE-VM portfolio presentations. Students presented evidence of the work they have completed, reflected on the personal growth they have observed in themselves and shared their aspirations for the future. The work, effort and professionalism shown by students was impressive to see, we congratulate all students involved in the presentations.

Year 12 Celebration Day

Tuesday the 21st of October sees the Year 12s arrive for their last official day. The day is spent by the students judging each other's fancy dress costume and completing a celebratory “lap of the school”. They will share morning tea with the cohort and the teachers and then be celebrated at their very own whole school assembly. We want the students to have fun and enjoy the day, doing so with respect for each other, all students in the school and the school itself. Well done Year 12’s on making it!

Year 12 Exams

The Year 12 students will soon be sitting their exams with the first exam (English) on Tuesday 28th October. 13 years of study being directed into these few weeks can be a stressful time for students. As a College we plan for this at the start of Year 7, when we first introduce students to sitting exams. Not only being in a large room and staying concentrated for a long period of time but the revision skills in the lead up to the exams is something that can only be learned by experience. Our strategy has hopefully alleviated some of the anxiety for the Year 12s as they have done this many times before. This is also the reason for all students to take our Semester Exams seriously and make sure they give their very best. Good luck to our Year 12s and all other students who will sit exams at the end of this Term.

2026 Booklists

The booklists for 2026 are nearing completion and will be communicated with students and families in the coming weeks. Please look out for communications so students are prepared for, not only 2026, but for their Orientation classes which for Year 10 and Year 11 students commences in the second half of Term 4.

Uniform and Hats

With the warmer weather approaching we encourage all students to be sun smart and wear a hat and/or sunscreen while outside. Students can wear any hat from home and must ensure that they remove it when indoors. Also, regarding uniform, a reminder that sports uniform must only be worn on days students have PE, and footwear must be plain black leather shoes. This is an issue we see arise from time to time, but Year Level Managers will always enforce our expectations so please ensure you are adhering to them.

School Holiday Practice Exams: A Step Towards Success

While many were beach bound or binge watching, our VCE students tackled practice exams that mirror the real thing. The payoff? Better timing, stronger stamina, and targeted feedback to guide the final weeks of revision. Preparation + perseverance (+ a little caffeine) = confidence.

Connect Lectures: A Final Boost Before Exams

For our Year 12 scored students, this week brings Connect Lectures — sessions led by high-achieving recent graduates who share insider tips, smart revision strategies, and practical exam advice matched to the VCAA topics. It’s like a cheat code for success… minus the cheating. Show up, take notes, study smart.

VCE VM Exit Interviews: Reflecting and Celebrating

Our Year 12 VM students are completing exit interviews, a chance to recognise growth, employability skills, and achievements across their senior years. We’re proud of the VM Class of 2025 and excited for what’s next beyond NGSC.

Celebration Day: One Last Hurrah

Costumes, memories, and one final cohort moment. Celebration Day is nearly here. We’ll share the schedule, activities, and expectations shortly. Start planning something fun (and appropriate!) for a day you’ll remember.

2026 Captain Applications: Leaders Wanted!

Applications for 2026 School Captain and Vice-Captain are open. Leadership at NGSC is about service, voice, and impact. If you’re ready to shape culture and events next year, grab the form, prep your pitch, and step up.

Stay organised, stay focused, and keep your eyes on the finish line. The last weeks of Term 4 are where the work pays off. And remember deadlines move fast… but graduation moves faster.

Welcome to the last Term of the Year! Term 4 is always packed full of exciting activities and a final push to complete all assessments and exams. As we return to school a quick reminder for students to continue meeting the expectations here at the college. Full school uniform in particular, no hoodies or alternative shoes. Arriving at school and all their classes on time, prepared with all the learning materials for their classes. This goes a long way in setting themselves up for success.

Gordon Tertiary Futures Project

This Term, our Year 9 students will have the exciting opportunity to attend TAFE courses at The Gordon, gaining valuable hands-on experience in a range of practical fields.

These programs allow students to explore pathways in areas such as automotive, hospitality, building and construction, hair and beauty, and more, while developing real-world skills that complement their classroom learning.

Participating in TAFE gives students a taste of vocational education and training, helping them make informed decisions about their future careers. We’re incredibly proud of their commitment, enthusiasm, and the way they are representing our school in a professional learning environment.

Multicultural Festival

Next week (Friday 24/10), we will be celebrating our school’s annual Multicultural Festival, a highlight of the term and school year! Students, staff, and families come together to recognise and embrace the diverse cultures that make up our school community. The day is filled with vibrant performances, delicious food, and cultural displays that showcase the talents and traditions of our students. We would love to see as many students and families as possible on the day!

Year 10 Exam Preparation/ “S” Results

With exams approaching in week seven, students are reminded to stay focused and organised as they work towards achieving satisfactory results in all subjects. Teachers are finalising last assessments and will then be providing revision materials and study tips to support students in their preparation. Consistent effort, good study habits, and asking for help when needed, are key to success. We’re confident our students will finish the term with a strong sense of achievement and pride in their progress.

Welcome back to Term 4! It’s shaping up to be an exciting and busy term across the Junior Sub School, with plenty of opportunities for students to learn, connect, and celebrate the end of another successful year.

Our Year 7 students are beginning to make important choices for 2026 as they select to continue with either German or Japanese as their language. This decision allows students to explore new cultures, build global awareness, and develop valuable communication skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Next week, our Year 8 students will take part in the ‘Smashed’ incursion, a dynamic and interactive program that explores decision-making, peer pressure, and responsible choices. This session provides valuable insights into wellbeing and supports students in developing confidence and resilience.

We’re also looking forward to Multicultural Day, a whole-school celebration of the rich diversity that makes our community so special. Students will enjoy a range of cultural activities, performances, and food experiences — a wonderful opportunity to learn from and appreciate the many backgrounds represented within our school.

As we move toward the end of the year, students will begin preparing for end-of-year exams, where they’ll have the chance to demonstrate their learning growth and reflect on their achievements.

Another highlight will be Swimming Week, an engaging and active program that promotes confidence, teamwork, and water safety, always a favourite among students.

Finally, our Year 8 STEM projects will be underway, encouraging creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving through hands-on challenges that bring science, technology, engineering and mathematics to life.

Term 4 promises to be full of learning, fun, and opportunities to finish the year on a high note. We can’t wait to see what our Junior Sub School students achieve!

Welcome to Term 4! It’s been a positive and purposeful start to the term in the CONNECT Program, with students continuing to explore themes that build wellbeing, respect, and connection across our school community.

In preparation for Multicultural Day, students have been reflecting on the importance of diversity and inclusion, while planning their stalls for the celebration day. This has been a fantastic opportunity for students to share their culture, learn from others, and contribute to a whole-school celebration of belonging.

So far this term, CONNECT lessons have explored these key topics:

• Mental Health – Students have learned practical strategies to care for their wellbeing and recognise when they, or others, might need support. These sessions encourage students to build resilience, understand their emotions, and develop positive coping strategies to manage challenges both inside and outside of school.
• Active Bystander – Students will learn how to safely and confidently take action when they witness bullying, discrimination, or unfair treatment. The focus is on recognising when to speak up, offer support, or seek help from a trusted adult, helping to create a culture of respect and care within our school.
• Respectful Relationships – This topic helps students understand what healthy and respectful relationships look like, including kindness, empathy, and effective communication. Students explore how their actions and words impact others, and how to build relationships that are positive and supportive.
• Positivity and Mindfulness – In these sessions, students will practise strategies to focus on the present moment, manage stress, and maintain a positive mindset. Through simple mindfulness activities and reflections, they’ll learn how gratitude and self-awareness contribute to improved wellbeing and happiness.

The CONNECT program continues to provide students with a valuable space to reflect, grow, and strengthen their sense of connection — both within themselves and as part of our wider school community.

WMR Athletic Sports Report

Wednesday 10th October - Moonee Ponds Athletic Centre

This year we had the largest number of qualifiers for quite some time. The conditions on the day were not ideal with wind influencing times and performances. It was once again terrific to have a number of parents able to attend and support their family members and the team in general.

All team members stepped up to the challenge of this high-level event and showed determination to give of their best. There were some PB’s achieved and lessons to be learnt in terms of preparation. A win on the day moves students into the State Finals on Monday 20^th October, so we wish Xander, Sienna and Asher all the best in their events.

Medal Winners –

Year 7 

• Ava Marsden - 13 Yr Girls Triple Jump Bronze 9.03 m
• Angus Warren - 13 Yr Boys Discus Bronze 30.46 m

Year 8 

• Xander Mitchell - 14 Yr Boys Triple Jump Silver 11.20 m, Long Jump Silver 5.34 m, Javelin Gold 34.56 m

Year 9 

• Sienna Bilinski - 15 Yr Girls 100m Silver 13.68 sec, 200 m Gold 27.14 sec, 400 m Gold 1:03.49 sec, Triple Jump Gold 10.73 m, Long Jump Gold 5.27 m
• Orlando Kozina - 14 Yr Boys 800 m Bronze 2:14.78 min

Year 11 

• Xavier Wiese - 17 Yr Boys Triple Jump Silver 12.17 m, 4x100 m Relay Silver 47.33 sec
• Hannah Day - 17 Yr Girls Javelin Bronze 21.71 m
• Dan Bilinski - 17 Yr Boys 4x100 m Relay Silver 47.33 sec
• Mason Kinsella - 17 Yr Boys 4x100 m Relay Silver 47.33 sec
• Ethan Kozina - 17 Yr Boys 4x100 m Relay Silver 47.33 sec

Year 12 

• Asher Mitchell - 20 Yr Boys Triple Jump Silver12.25 m, Javelin Gold 41.17 m, Long Jump Gold 6.59 m 
• Luke House - 17 Yr Boys Discus Silver 27.62 m

Thankyou also to other team members Sheena Moroney, Caiden Payne- Gumbleton, Patricia Mina, Deborah Bijimba, Syed Zaidi, Billy Perkins, Ethan Hoff, Brock Anderson, Rida Poneha, Tanishka Negi and Gilbert Hose who competed on the day.

What a wonderful start to Term 4 with the new arrival of some International Students joining the International Program:

Ludovica (Ludo) TRIONI, Year 10 from Italy

Ludo commenced at the start of Term 4 and is studying at our College as a Study Abroad International Student until 5^th December 2025 and entered directly into mainstream schooling. She has had the privilege of our International Student Ambassador taking her under their wing and assisting her with settling into the College. A BIG thankyou to Parmin Kadivar for her guidance and support during Ludo’s time at our College.

Yichen CAO, Year 10 from China

Yichen commenced at the start of Term 4 and has been welcomed into the English Language Centre. He has already made some wonderful friendships, and he is working on his English which will improve over the coming months allowing him to structure conversations with peers, we are looking forward to wonderful and exciting conversations in the future.

Natan FALCIANI, Year 11 from Belgium

Natan commenced at the start of Term 3, studying at our College in Year 11. He returned back home to Belgium with wonderful memories and friendships that were made while studying at our College. We wish him all the very best on his future adventures.

Our College has had a great deal of enquiries recently for the coming year regarding our International Student Program. These enquiries are from around the continent ranging from Turkey, China, Vietnam, Kuwait, Hong Kong, Thailand and India. We are feeling so proud that the Program has been highlighted in these areas and beyond but hope these enquiries lead to International Students commencing at our College to experience the wonderful opportunities that are available to them.

With this in mind, this is another call out for new homestay families to join our Homestay Program. This is such an amazing experience to be a part of a new culture in your home.

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.

Multicultural Committee News

At our concluding Multicultural Community Planning Meeting on Monday, 13 October 2025, the committee added the final touches to what promises to be the biggest and most spectacular celebration of the NGSC Multicultural Festival yet!

We can confidently say that this year’s event will once again place NGSC on the multicultural map, showcasing the incredible diversity and harmony of our school and local community.

Festival Countdown – Only One Week to Go!

The excitement is growing across our school community as we count down to our much-loved and cherished Multicultural Festival!

This spectacular celebration will attract visitors from across Greater Geelong and beyond, offering a full day of:

Live cultural performances

World food stalls and cuisines

Fun rides and attractions

Community displays and entertainment

Mark the date: Friday, 24 October 2025

Join us for hours of joy, laughter, and cultural celebration as we unite in the spirit of “One World.”

Parade of National Costumes

The Opening Ceremony Parade will once again be one of the festival’s most colourful highlights! Come dressed in your national or traditional costume and proudly represent your culture as we celebrate our shared heritage.

Everyone is welcome to participate — students, families, and community members alike!

Traditional Homemade Cake Stall

Our Multicultural Committee proudly continues the much-loved tradition of hosting the Homemade Cake Stall — a true Festival favourite! We are also delighted to welcome back Dragana, a former NGSC student and now proud parent, who will once again delight visitors with her famous peach cakes and other mouth-watering specialties.

Your support helps keep this sweet tradition alive. You can contribute by:

Donating home-baked cakes, slices, or sweets

Providing raffle items for the school fundraiser

Attending and celebrating on the day

Wearing cultural attire and joining the Opening Parade

Join Us in Celebration!

The NGSC Multicultural Festival is a joyful reflection of our shared values — respect, inclusion, diversity and community harmony.

For more details or to get involved, please contact the school or Vera Dudas Multicultural Community Liaison Officer

See You at the Festival! Friday, 24 October 2025, a celebration not to be missed!

Let’s come together as one community, one world, to celebrate our diverse and vibrant NGSC community.

ATTENTION! ATTENTION! ATTENTION!

CAKES, SLICES, MUFFINS & TREATS FROM AROUND THE WORLD!

Dear Parents/Guardians, Staff, Students, Friends, and Community Members,

The much-loved NGSC Multicultural Festival Cake Stall is back!
This stall has built a fabulous reputation over the years and it’s only possible thanks to the generous support of our wonderful families.

We are asking for your help by baking cakes, slices, muffins, or sweet treats and sending or bringing them along for the festival.

Date: Friday, October 24th

Location: North Geelong Secondary College

Cakes must arrive by 10:00 am sharp on the day (they can also be sent in with students).

To meet health regulations and support those with allergies, please attach a list of ingredients (no recipes needed) to each item you donate.

Forms will be available from members of the Multicultural Committee, or from:

• Mrs. Vera Dudas
• Ms. Carolyn Kent
• Mrs. Irene Walters
• Mrs. Soghra Mahtabi
  

Forms will also be available at the front office and in the staffroom.

With your kindness and generosity, we can make this year’s Festival another grand success!

Song Makers Holiday Workshop @ The Potato Shed

Over the September school holiday break, eight music students attended a two-day workshop presented by the Australian Performing Rights Association (APRA) called 'Song Makers'. It was run at the 'Potato Shed' theatre in Drysdale by several music industry mentors (songwriters/producers) and the team organising the Queenscliff Music Festival.

The free workshop was focussed on writing and recording original music. The students involved were Danyon Bennett, Elija Lambert, Kate Timberlake, Tanseer Zaidi, Makayla Guidotti, Angus MacFarlane, Hayden Hubacsek and Ezra Washington. They joined thirty-two other students from schools all around the Bellarine Peninsula. 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 two, students spent time recording their songs with their mentors and taking part in a Music Careers Workshop and Q&A session. At the end of the day students all came together for a listening party to hear all eight of the completed songs. All were incredibly impressed with the amazing songs and quality recordings that were created in just two days. I'd like to thank APRA, the Queenscliff Music Festival and the brilliant mentors for sharing their expertise and skill with our students. This wonderful opportunity has further cemented these student's drive to collaborate and to create their own music.

Year 9 Careers

Terms three and four have been very busy for Year 9 students in the Careers space with students completing the Morrisby Profile Careers Program.

The objective of this process is to provide students with a measure of their innate/natural strengths so they can use this knowledge to help them choose subjects and careers which match their natural abilities. We have almost reached 80% of the year 9 cohort completing the Morrisby Program.

Thursday 16 October sees the Year 9 cohort beginning the Geelong Tertiary Futures Program.

GTFP is an exciting initiative that engages Year 9 students in education by providing an in-depth preview of a broad range of tertiary studies. The program is delivered by The Gordon TAFE in partnership with Geelong Secondary Schools.

The flagship program is now widely recognised as an example of good VET pathways delivery and engagement and the Career Previews remain highly successful, with high engagement and positive feedback from both students and teachers.

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!

Dobby, NGSC Pet

Dobby celebrated his first birthday on 24^th September, he has been an extremely popular identity around the college since he was two months old. Dobby attends school three days per week and is loved by students and staff. He is always ready for a pat and puts smiles on the faces of everyone he meets.

Creative Arts Therapy Program

Creative Arts Therapy is an allied health profession; it uses creative processes to help clients explore feelings that may be hard to put into words. Creative Arts Therapists help clients to reduce anxiety, improve self-awareness and find new pathways to healing. The creative process is used to help people explore self-expression and, in doing so, find new ways to gain personal insight and develop new coping skills. Our Art Therapist, Tina Doyle, is a qualified social worker and will complete her Master’s in Creative Arts Therapy in November 2025.

The Creative Arts Therapy Program has been running since Term one. Due to high demand the program is offered two days per week and will continue until early December. This program is offered free of charge and referrals can be made by contacting the Student Wellbeing Team.

In addition to art therapy sessions, approximately 90 students and staff have collaborated to make flowers from recycled water bottles. These flowers will be combined to make an NGSC community arts installation that will be displayed in the main foyer. It is anticipated that the arts installation will be on display at the NGSC Multicultural Festival on 24^th October.

Lions Club Vision Screening Program

In Term 3, all Year 7 students had the opportunity to undergo vision screening at school. On the day of the screening, 76 students participated. Parents were provided with individualised and confidential results, confirming their child’s vision was within normal range or whether any potential issues were identified. For those needing further assessment, it is recommended that their child visit an Optometrist for a full eye examination. A full eye exam with an optometrist takes approximately 30 minutes. It attracts a Medicare rebate and does not require a referral.

The vision tests at NGSC were conducted by the Lions Club of Lara, a group of dedicated volunteers, and the service was provided free of charge. The Lions Club aims to make vision screening enjoyable for the students, as some may feel a bit nervous about the process. The Lions Club Vision Screening Program partners with Optometry Australia, which oversees the program.

Since the Lions Club began their screening efforts shortly after the COVID pandemic, they have completed over 50,000 screenings. It is important to note that the average referral rate for further investigation is 20%. Therefore, parents should follow up on any referrals to ensure their child has the best chance to see clearly.

Vision problems can significantly impact a child’s development, including their schooling and day-to-day activities. For example, if a child cannot see well, it becomes challenging to catch a ball. Many children adapt to vision issues and may not complain, thinking that everyone sees the world as they do. It is essential for all children to have a comprehensive eye examination before starting school and to continue having regular check-ups throughout their primary and secondary education.

One in five children has an undetected vision problem. Family photos can provide valuable insights into a child’s vision. When reviewing those happy snaps, look for signs such as:

- An eye that is not fully open

- Head tilting or turning

- Unequal colour or brightness in each eye

By observing these signs, you can determine if your child may need to see an eye care professional.

World Mental Health Day – 10 October

The objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health. This year, Mental Health Australia’s theme for World Mental Health Day is ‘Connect with your community’. Connecting with our communities – the people and places where we feel safe, seen and heard – can help us feel cared for and supported, which is good for our mental health. 

A community can take any shape. Community can mean:

• Your school
• Friends, loved ones, your mob
• Multicultural centre
• Community choir
• Community garden
• Book club
• Running group
• Local volunteer group
• LGBTQIA+ group

At home, work, school, in the community or online, on 10 October, Mental Health Australia encourages everyone to have conversations about mental health, reduce stigma, reach out for support – and connect with our communities. 

2025 World Mental Health Day | Mental Health Australia

Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club at North Geelong Secondary College provides all students with a FREE and nutritious breakfast, helping them to fully engage in the educational and social opportunities available at school. The Breakfast Club operates from 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM, Monday to Friday. We encourage all students to come along to Breakfast Club to enjoy delicious food and great conversations before their school day begins.
Breakfast Club:
 When: 8am-8:30am Mon-Fri
 Where: B Block – Food Tech Dining Room

Quitting Smoking or Vaping

With support and encouragement, you can do it!
If you’ve been thinking about quitting smoking or vaping, you’ve probably been thinking about the many possible benefits….things like:

 Living healthier and feeling better
 Saving money
 Protecting your family from second-hand smoke
 Reducing anxiety that is linked to smoking and vaping.

But quitting can be tough, and it can take many attempts. Doing it on your own can be challenging. That’s why Barwon Health has set up a number of specialist Be Smokefree Clinics to give smokers and vapers the help they need.

Be Smokefree Clinics at Barwon Health

The Be Smokefree Clinics at Barwon Health provide individual support over a number of weeks. This approach can be very helpful because:

 It helps you to understand why you vape and/or smoke and why you want to quit
 It helps you to develop strategies for quitting or cutting back
 It provides you with regular support to manage through the quitting process
 It provides non-judgmental encouragement to achieve the goals you set for yourself.

Barwon Health staff will also liaise with your general practitioner and other health professionals to make sure they consider your overall physical and mental health concerns. Give the Barwon Health Be Smoke Free Clinic a call or download the self-referral form in the service brochure.

Vape Prevention Project Resources Released

We are excited to announce that the City of Greater Geelong has released resources co-designed by some of our Year 12 students who participated in the NGSC Vape Prevention Project throughout 2025. We invite you to explore the two vape prevention animations and the Be Smoke Free Clinician Interview, which were part of their Youth Vape Prevention Project - City of Greater Geelong. We are incredibly proud of the work these students have undertaken. Thank you to the City of Greater Geelong Youth Team, for partnering with NGSC in the development of these resources. We will be using these resources in the classroom during Term 4.

Get Active Victoria Kids Voucher Program

Helping eligible families get their kids involved in organised sport and active recreation. Eligible children may receive up to $200 to cover the costs for membership and registration fees. Round 9 of the Program will open at 10 am on 15 October. You will be able to present your Round 9 voucher to your activity provider when you pay and get up to $200 off your child’s registration and membership fees, and any included uniform and equipment.

Important Dates

• Round 9 applications open: 10 am, 15 October 2025
• Round 9 applications close: 13 November 2025 (or earlier if the budget allocation is fully exhausted)
• Voucher expiry date: 31 December 2025

For more information: https://www.getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers/apply-for-vouchers/

We’re proud to be one of the local organisations supported through the Give Where You Live Foundation’s Feed Geelong Appeal.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’ve received Community Choice Vouchers to help people in Geelong experiencing financial hardship access essentials like food, material aid, and pharmacy prescriptions.

These vouchers have helped over 80 individuals and families in our NGSC community. Every contribution to the Feed Geelong Appeal helps make sure no one goes hungry and supports organisations like ours to provide essential relief right here in Geelong.
Together, we’re feeding Geelong .
#FeedGeelong

Dear Community Friends

Every child deserves to have a special Christmas. With your help, we can make sure every family who turns to Uniting Barwon can share the joy of Christmas with the people they love most.

For many families in the Uniting Barwon region, Christmas is not a time of joy but a season of hard choices. The impacts of poverty, hardship and disadvantage leave families having to make impossible decisions, like choosing between paying for a meal, electricity, or essentials for their children’s education.

We want every child to have a happy Christmas, and we need your help to make sure that no one in the Barwon region misses out.

Uniting Barwon collects brand-new gifts to give parents and carers the dignity of choosing something meaningful for their children. Last year, families told us these gifts not only eased financial stress but also brought joy that lasts well beyond Christmas. Parents and carers shared the happiness of watching their children’s faces light up with excitement when they received their gifts.

All donations made in this region will go directly to families in our local community.

We’d love to have community groups, schools and workplaces on board. With your support, we can make sure there are gifts under every Christmas tree this year.

Thank you for helping bring hope and joy to families doing it tough this Christmas.

Get in touch if you would like to get involved or find out more. Host a collection with our help, or simply drop off donations at:

Uniting Grovedale: 272 Torquay Road, Grovedale (open 9am – 12pm Monday to Friday)

Uniting Norlane: 10 Wendover Avenue, Norlane (open 9am – 1pm Tues, Wed & Thurs)

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Exclusive Offer for North Geelong Secondary College Students!

District Barbers Bell Park is excited to offer a special discount to students from NGSC

5% OFF Haircuts Monday to Thursday only.

Book online or call us to redeem your discount.

Address: 79b Separation Street, Bell Park

Phone: 0413 939 639

Don't miss out! Book your appointment today!

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!