Read more to hear about what has been happening across Secondary School over the past few weeks.
Term 1 Kick Off
Mr Jonathan Brayshaw
It has been an incredibly exciting start to the year in Secondary School! In just three weeks of term, students have embraced numerous opportunities for learning and personal growth. Some highlights have included the first Chapel of the year, the Swimming Carnival, Year 7 Orientation and Stage 6 Leadership Camp at the Collaroy Centre.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the many parents and carers who generously gave up their time to attend the Meet the Homeroom Teacher information evening. Your presence and engagement made the evening truly special. It was an invaluable opportunity for Year Advisors, Homeroom Teachers, and myself to share our College’s vision, culture, and important matters with you.
The connections forged between staff, parents and carers during this event contribute greatly to our College community’s strength. To those who were unable to attend, I trust you have been able to hear from your child’s Homeroom Teacher, Year Advisor and Stage Coordinator via email. We look forward to meeting with you at the next parent evening for Secondary School.
Year 7 Orientation
Miss Shelby Mayo
In Week 1, Year 7 students started their Secondary School journey with two days of Orientation. These days were dedicated to ensuring students were informed, encouraged and supported during the important transition from Primary to Secondary.
The event included opportunities to form and strengthen bonds with peers and spend valuable time with Homeroom teachers. Specific sessions introduced students to the unique culture of Australian Christian College, including the ACC student values: courage, humility, respect, initiative, self-control and trust. It was an absolute joy to see students already putting these into practice during this time together!
Throughout the days, students also enjoyed subject tasters in Physical Education, Visual Arts and Drama, as well as Secondary School experiences such as navigating their timetables and organising lockers. Key members of the Secondary Staff were introduced and a tour of the College provided students with an opportunity to see where their lessons would be held. The College prefects also paid a special visit and led engaging ice breaker games.
As Orientation came to a close, students were encouraged to take on an attitude of gratitude, seeking ways to notice and celebrate the achievements of those around them as they strengthen their relationship as a cohort.
Secondary Swimming Carnival
Mrs Melanie Kewley
ACC Marsden Park started 2024 with a splash.
The annual Secondary School Swimming Carnival took place on the 1st of February - the second day of the school year for most of our students. It was fantastic to see both On Campus and Distance Education students taking part in the carnival; competing in races, cheering for their sporting houses and spending time together as a part of the wider ACC community. Whether students swam to achieve a personal best or participated for house points, the event was enjoyable for all.
Blacktown Aquatic Centre was a new venue for the College and helped in the running of an efficient and enjoyable carnival. Facilities included a 50m indoor pool, touchpad timing support, spacious grandstands and a wonderful kiosk (a favourite for many students). This will be the venue again next Tuesday as the house spirit continues at the Primary School Swimming Carnival and the following week as a select group of Primary and Secondary Students participate against other schools in the Zone Swimming Carnival.
Although there wasn’t much preparation time, the students really put their best foot forward as they supported their houses. Thanks to the help of the Year 12 Leaders and House Patrons, each house chanted loudly to encourage speed from their swimmers. The Eagles brought along some drums, the Rams had a never ending supply of chants and the Lions had multiple heat-defying mascots in lion onesies. Although the Brumbies may have won the house relay, demonstrating themselves to be the fastest house this year, the overall house winner for the carnival will be announced at the Secondary Assembly next week.
Thank you to all who participated in and supported our students on the day, making it a joyous start to the year.
Stage 6 Camp
Mrs Sarah Aydin
The Stage 6 camp for our Year 11 and 12 students was meticulously crafted to provide a holistic experience blending personal growth with community bonding. From the outset, our focus was on nurturing introspection and fostering connections. Morning sessions delved into themes of ministry and identity, prompting students to reflect on their values and sense of purpose. Following these enriching discussions, students engaged in spirited water games, offering opportunities for both laughter and team building. Evenings were dedicated to themed sessions like "Who You Are is Whose You Are," aimed at deepening self-awareness and fostering a sense of belonging within our community.
Throughout the camp, we were intentional about striking a balance between learning, leisure, and rest. Themed nights, such as the '90s Vibe Theme night, were not just about fun but also about strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories. Guided by mentor Matt Purcell, our students explored essential topics ranging from leadership to resilience. As the camp drew to a close, it was heartening to see our students depart with a renewed sense of purpose and stronger connections, armed with practical skills to navigate the challenges ahead with confidence and grace.
Creative Arts - Year 7H Music Lessons
Mrs Kaylie Neave
Year 7H enjoyed their first taste of a practical music class this week. Students began the lesson by learning about the concept of duration and how different note and rest values create interest and groove.
Students highlighted all the different notes on "Ode to Joy" and then enjoyed showing their understanding by playing the piece on keyboards. It was a delight to witness their respectful, proactive and collaborative nature. I am excited for more practical lessons with this cohort in the future!
Year 10 and 11 Drama Excursion
Mr Liam Tomalaris & Miss Meghan Flood
Our Year 10 and 11 drama students had the opportunity to visit the Seymour Centre on Monday to watch 'OnStage', a showcase of some of the best HSC drama projects and performances from across NSW last year. These included monologues, group devised performances, moved readings of student scripts, video dramas, set design models, costume design displays and many others. This is a great opportunity for students to look to the future and consider some of the creative options in store for them in their future studies in Drama.
