"For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland."
Isaiah 43:19
Jeff Davis
Executive Head of College
Executive Head of College, Jeff Davis shares an update from the first two weeks of the school year.
Blessings
The Rise Program
After many months of planning and consultation through the second half of 2022, we are thrilled to have officially launched our Year 9 Coolangatta project now known as the Rise Program.
The Vision
The Rise Program is a strategic transition program for Year 9 students that aims to empower them with a better understanding of themselves and their community. Based in Coolangatta on the Gold Coast, the program focusses on personal growth, service to the community, and the development of entrepreneurial thinking. Ultimately, the Rise Program prepares students for success by equipping them with the skills and mindset they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Why the need for change?
Research shows that young adolescents undergo significant cognitive and emotional changes as they move out of the Middle Years, and the education system needs to be responsive to these changes. Furthermore, this age group is at a crucial stage in their learning and it is important that they receive an education that is engaging, relevant and challenging to ensure they are motivated to continue as life-long learners in our ever-changing world. This includes developing entrepreneurial skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, as well as providing students with a broad understanding of different cultures and perspectives. Additionally, the current education system is facing increasing pressure to be more responsive to the needs of the economy and the demands of the workforce. This means that education for Year 9 students needs to be more focused on the development of practical and future-focused skillsets that are in demand in our rapidly changing workplace.
Key Drivers
The Rise Program has been developed to address these concerns through a unique problem-based learning model focussed on three key drivers;
- Self-efficacy (Belief in one’s capacity, connection to their learning)
- Service (making a difference in the community)
- Entrepreneurship (Real-World Learning)
Recap of the first two weeks
While we wait for construction to be completed in our new facility based in The Strand, students have been visiting Coolangatta on short day trips so they can begin their learning projects. Students are creating a weekly newsletter to share with parents as a way of demonstrating their learning and celebrating their success along the journey. Below is a copy of the RP23 update from Week 1.
We look forward to sharing more of the exciting stories as this program evolves and want to thank the many parents who have already sent messages of support for the program in the first two weeks. This is a truly unique program that is responding to a much needed change in education and we look forward to the growing success in the months to come as we settle into our new facility and continue to outwork our strong vision for success into the future.
Culture and Wellbeing
Hillcrest Christian College has a strong focus on the cultural and wellbeing of its students, with a range of programs and initiatives designed to foster a positive and supportive learning environment.
Throughout the year the College hosts programs to support and inform parents across a variety of areas. Tuning in to Teens, Tuning in to Kids and Dads Tuning in to Kids parenting groups begin Week 3!
Tuning in to Kids is a suite of parenting programs that focus on the emotional connection between parents/carers and their children, from pre-schoolers to teens. The evidence-based programs have proven success in improving parenting, parent-child relationships and children’s emotional competence and behaviour. It is the Wellbeing team’s hope that through time, every parent and caretaker can participate in this exciting and interactive six-week program. Keep an eye out in future newsletters for advertised groups in Terms 3 and 4. Parenting can have challenging seasons. If Hillcrest parents and caretakers need additional parenting support, please contact Natalie Daugherty, one of our College Counsellors. Natalie is a family-trained counsellor, parent coach, emotion coach trainer and clinical supervisor through the Australian Counselling Association.
From the ELC
Welcome to Term 1 of 2023. We are blessed to have embraced so many new children and their families, see the start of so many beautiful connections blossom.
As we embark on this new term, it is important to reflect on the significance of education and connection. Hillcrest Christian College’s 2023 theme of “Growth is Mindset” aligns perfectly with Proverbs 22:6, which states, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” We believe that each child is unique and special, and we are committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment where they can thrive and grow.
We are excited to see the children embark on so many meaningful learning journeys this term across music and movement, arts and crafts, sustainability, sports and wellbeing as well as language and culture. These experiences will not only foster our children’s love for learning but also help them to develop new skills and connect with others in our community.
Weeks 1 and 2 have seen our Pre-Kindy turning into firefighters through imaginative role play, Kindy 1 on the lookout for bugs whilst painting in the garden, Kindy 2 exploring self-portraits names, and Kindy 3 tackling obstacle courses and enjoying open-ended play. We look forward to what is yet to come!
May you and your family have a blessed and joyous term ahead.
Taylor Wells-McFarlane
Director, Early Learning Community
Director, Early Learning Community
From JLC Leadership
Dear JLC Community
Welcome to all our JLC families. It was so lovely to greet many of you on the first day and help you to navigate back to school in Week 1. We appreciate your patience around our morning drop offs and afternoon pick-ups, which will ease as After the Bell programs start this week. Our JLC staff were eager to meet their new students and introduce each child to the learning and activities they will take part in this term.
The JLC staff have been working hard to create a diverse range of programs and activities that will challenge and inspire your child/ren. A ‘Term Overview’ and ‘Weekly Snapshot’ will be sent out to all families this week outlining the specifics of Term 1, including learning and key events. ‘Weekly Snapshots’ will be sent out at the end of each week to help communicate all the things specific to your child’s year level.
Our weekly Gathering was off to great start, launching our first PeaceWiseKids topic: ‘What is conflict?’ PeaceWiseKids is a program we have introduced College-wide this year. It has a strong biblical foundation that puts in place a four-part process for children when dealing with conflict:
- God: Put God First (1 Corinthians 10:31)
- Me: Own My Part (Matthew 7:3-5)
- You: Talk it Over (Galatians 6:1)
- Us: Make it right (Matthew 5:23-24)
Over the next two weeks students across the JLC will learn that conflict can happen with anyone, and it can happen anytime in any place they go. They will consider how conflict makes them feel, learn ways that people react to conflict and see peace making as a positive decision. We welcome all families along to our Gatherings held every Monday morning at 8.20am-9.00am in the Terrace Hall.
On Friday, we had our JLC Assembly at 8.20am-9.00am in the Terrace Hall; a fortnightly event that brings our JLC community together to celebrate each others’ successes and communicate key messages. Families are always welcome to attend. If your child is receiving a special certificate or part of a key message, those families will receive a special invitation to be part of the morning as well.
Our goal in the JLC is to provide a supportive and engaging learning environment where your child/ren can reach their full potential. We believe that this term will be one of growth, inspiration, and success.
Thank you for entrusting us with your children’s education. We are looking forward to working with each and every one of them.
Blessings
Christy Gittins
Head Junior Learning Community
What’s been happening in the JLC
First Day + Prep Tea and Tears
The first day of school for our JLC community was so much fun. We welcomed lots of new students and teachers enjoyed getting to know all their new students and setting up new routines for the year with their class. Then our Prep students had their very first day of school. It was a special and exciting time for both the students and their parents. The Preppies were filled with a mixture of nerves and excitement. Parents, on the other hand, were proud and emotional watching their children take this important step. After drop off on the first day of school, parents gathered for Tea and Tears, to support and comfort to each other. This event is a great way for parents to connect with each other and build a sense of community, and it provides a much-needed outlet for the emotions that come with watching their children grow up and start school.
From the Head of the MLC
Dear Parent/Carer
As we near the end of the first two weeks, we can already see the positive impact that our relationship building has created. The main focus of this year’s start has been about the 3Rs (relationship, relationship, relationship) and this has laid a solid foundation in classrooms to allow the learning to flourish over the coming weeks and months. Many new students have commented on how welcomed they have felt and we have worked hard to provide many positive experiences so students can form new bonds in both their core classrooms and Life Groups alike.
The MLC Swimming Carnival in Week 1 was a highlight for students with high participation rates in races and strong student support for each of our Houses on the day. Although my House, Carmichael, once again failed to fire we are resolute in the fact that we have a plan to move forward as there really is only one way to go from here. UP!
The Year 7-8 students have enjoyed an alternate program in Week 2, focused on leadership, teamwork and House spirit as they have attended Tyalgum Ridge Resort for two nights as well as participating in a range of activities onsite during the rest of the week. Their behaviour was amazing and staff can’t wait to build upon these collaborative experiences as academic learning ramps up in Week 3.
This year we have been blessed to see 13 new teachers join the MLC and the high calibre of these new team members has already been noted. The large number is due to the fact that we now have specialist staff that work solely in the MLC which will strengthen our Community as we work together to support the same students across all key Learning Areas. We also had some existing staff succeed in being promoted into the Rise Program supporting students in Year 9. Please help to make all of the following staff feel welcome.
| Staff member | Learning area |
| Tadgh Treanor | Head of GQ and Core Year 6 teacher |
| Jeremy Watt | Year 8 Eng/HaSS teacher |
| Kayleigh Austin | Year 8 Eng/HaSS teacher |
| Lauren Johns | Year 7 Eng/HaSS teacher |
| Phillip Johnson | Year 7 Maths/Sci teacher |
| Siobhan Denny | Year 6 Core teacher |
| Alex Julli | Year 5/6 Lumos |
| Darren Postema | MLC Music |
| Justin Murillo | MLC Arts/HPE |
| Sabine Signori | MLC French |
| Kruze Wilkin | MLC Technologies |
| Simone Zarb | MLC Food Nutrition |
| Claire Preston | Head of Music |
We have also succeeded in creating core teaching teams that work in the one year level, for the first time, so our staff will now be able to create deeper relationships with students across the year. These teams also share the same staff rooms so information about students can be shared freely to maximise the understanding of each individual in our care.
I hope you can see that all of the actions outlined above have created a strong start to the year with a focus on smaller teaching teams building solid relationships with our students. Our goal is for these teams to develop a healthy learning partnership with students and parents and keep our community up to date with everything that we have to offer over the year. Part of that plan is coordinating our first parent information session in Week 4 in line with our first student Mash up. More information about the Mashup and Parent Session will be provided next week but please mark Thursday, 16 February in your calendar as an afternoon to keep free if you can.
Blessings
Darren Rackemann
Head of Middle Learning Community
What’s been happening in the MLC
MLC Swimming Carnival
The MLC Swimming Carnival was a day filled with excitement and great fun. The hot weather didn’t dampen the team spirit of the participants and the stands were filled with cheering families and friends. The pool was a sea of activity as the students and teachers took part in various races, showing off their skills and determination. The atmosphere was electric and the participants put in their best effort to secure points for their Houses. The day was a showcase of teamwork, sportsmanship, and camaraderie as everyone came together to support one another. Despite the heat, the MLC Swimming Carnival was a great success, providing a memorable experience for all who took part.
From the Head of the SLC
Welcome to the first newsletter of 2023. I wish to welcome back our returning families, our new families to the College and the Year 9 students entering the Senior Learning Community. It has been a busy and successful start to the year.
Our theme this year at the College is: Growth is a Mindset, which is based around the Growth Mindset research of Dr Carol Dweck. Growth mindset is around the idea that we can grow our brain’s capacity to learn and solve problems. Flearning is a term we use often at Hillcrest. Doing something and not succeeding is flearning. Thomas Edison learnt something new each time he attempted to create a filament for his light bulb. He did not get the best outcome the first time but persisted by trying over and over until he had success. The following YouTube clip is an excellent introduction to Growth Mindset. Happy watching.
It was great to be at the front gate to see the students returning on day one. It was clear to see that they had had a great holiday but were keen to start the new academic year. Based on feedback from parents and students, we have moved away from the House Camps in Week 1 to year-level based camps. With the change from House camps which contained culturally significant activities for our community, the introduction of the House Day has retained these. It was great to see so many students engaged in activities including trivia competition, House Spirit building activities including war cry development and Tribal Wars at the beach. Among the many things that were successes, Year 12 students demonstrated leadership, students new to the Life Group developed relationships and relationships between existing students in the Life Group were strengthened. A huge thank you to the Heads of House for their planning and organisation of House Day.
The Year 12 students had their Leadership Retreat on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday of the first week of school. It is amazing how the intensive time together has set this cohort up for success this year and I am very impressed with how they grew over the three days. They know more about themselves, each other and through their own grit and determination, and with the support of others, found they can overcome obstacles and climb a mountain (or two). Thank you to the staff who planned and implemented this outstanding experience for our Year 12 students.
The SLC Swimming Carnival in Week 2 was a huge success. Not only did we have record numbers of students attending, we also had record numbers of student participation. The program was adjusted to allow our competitive swimmers to demonstrate their gifts and talents, but also new novelty events were introduced for the non-competitive swimmers. Thank you to staff who planned and implemented this outstanding experience for the students.
Week 2 also saw the introduction of trials for the AGCC (Associated Gold Coast Christian Schools) competitive sport competition. We have heard clearly through parent and student feedback that this area of our community was lacking and what is being implemented will no doubt improve the physical wellbeing of students in our community.
Lots of positive change has already occurred in the first few weeks of term. We always look at how we can improve on the experience we provide to the students and welcome any feedback. I wish you and your child a fantastic year as we work in partnership to educate, energise, empower and equip them.
Until next time. God bless you.
Jason Day
Head of Senior Learning Community
jday@hillcrest.qld.edu.au
What’s been happening in the SLC
Year 10-12 Visual Art Excursion to GOMA
On Wednesday, 1 February, Year 10, 11 and 12 Visual Art classes attended an excursion to The Gallery of Modern Art to view the exhibition ‘Air’. Students viewed works through personal, cultural, contemporary, and formal contexts considering diverse subject matter and developing their understanding of a range of art forms.
SLC House Day
Our annual House Day took place in Week 1 on Wednesday, 25 January both on campus at the College and at North Burleigh Beach. Houses took it in turns to rotate through activities at both sites throughout the day. House Day builds into our House culture at the College which helps foster a sense of belonging and community among students by creating smaller groups within the larger school community. This leads to greater connections between students and a more supportive environment for them to flourish in. This is especially beneficial for new students transitioning into the SLC at the start of the year.
This year saw the introduction of Beach Tribal Wars where life groups from each House competed in various beach-themed activities such as walking the plank, ping pong bucket fill and other LG challenges. It was a particularly hot and humid day; splashing about in the water at the beach was much appreciated by all those competing in the different activities.
With trivia being a firm House favourite, all life groups battled it out in a general knowledge quiz with the winning life group with the most correct answers winning a prize and the title of Trivia Champions for 2023.
War cries have been a staple of House spirit and community-building for generations. These short, powerful chants that are performed by students and staff, are to show their support for their school and to pump up their team before carnivals and to bring people together and create a positive, inclusive atmosphere. During our House Day each House had a session where they could develop their new war cries for this year.
Overall House Day provides students with an opportunity to be inspired; to strive for excellence and achieve their personal best. It promotes teamwork and collaboration among students, as they work together to overcome challenges and to develop important skills and qualities, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving, that will serve students well beyond their school years. A great day was had by all!
Year 12 Leadership Retreat – A Resounding Success!
The Year 12 students of Hillcrest Christian College recently embarked on a three-day leadership retreat to Luther Heights, Coolum, where they were given the opportunity to bond, reflect, and recharge. The retreat was an unparalleled success, with students and staff alike returning to the school with a renewed sense of camaraderie and purpose.
The students were greeted with beautiful sunny weather upon their arrival, and the activities and events organised by the staff kept them engaged and entertained throughout the retreat. There was a perfect balance of fun and reflective activities, including team-building exercises, beach games, and quiet moments for personal reflection.
One of the highlights of the retreat was a day of challenges, involving summiting Mt Ngungun and Mt Beerburrum, followed by an afternoon of fun at Bulcock Beach, Caloundra. That evening, students shared devotions and worship together before roasting a marshmallow or two over a bonfire, which allowed students to unwind and bond over a shared experience. The team-building activities helped the students work together and build relationships, which will be invaluable as they navigate the challenges of their final year of senior school.
The retreat was also an opportunity for students to reflect on their achievements, as well as their goals for the future. The quiet moments for personal reflection allowed them to contemplate their journey thus far and what lies ahead, and many students shared that these moments were some of the most meaningful and impactful of the retreat.
The Year 12 Retreat to Luther Heights, Coolum was a resounding success, with students and staff returning to the College with a greater sense of community and purpose. We are grateful to the staff who organised and led the retreat, and we look forward to continued success in the years to come.
SLC Swimming Carnival
The SLC Swimming Carnival was a blast! With some novelty events added and the weather being just perfect, the day was filled with excitement and energy. The new events brought a fresh perspective and added to the overall fun of the day. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone cheering on their team and supporting each other. The team spirit was palpable and really brought everyone together, creating a sense of unity and community. The sound of cheers and laughter echoed throughout, making it clear that everyone was having a great time. The day was filled with outstanding performances, with swimmers breaking personal records and pushing themselves to the limit. The carnival was a great success and will be remembered as a fantastic day filled with fun, new experiences and great team spirit.
Pathways News
Marine construction School-based apprenticeships available at Riviera
Current 2023 Year 12 students who are looking for School Based Apprenticeships in the marine construction industry are offered the following opportunities:
Riviera currently looking for the following School Based Apprenticeships:
- Cert III in Polymer Processing (Composite Tech)
- Cert III in Marine Craft Construction
- Cert III in Cabinetmaking
- Cert III in Furniture Finishing (French Polishing)
Riviera would like these positions filled asap. Applications (Cover Letter, Resume + Last two reports) close on Friday, 17 February.
Work Experience starting on Monday, 27 of February to Friday 3rd of March.
Interviews starting Tuesday, 7 March – Offers being emailed Wednesday, 8 March.
Groups start on Monday, 27 March 2023
If you know of any school leavers 2022 who are looking for a full-time apprenticeship, Riviera currently has the following opportunities to fill:
Riviera currently looking for the following full-time apprenticeships:
- Cert III in Polymer Processing (Composites Tech)
- Cert III in Marine Craft Construction
- Cert III in Surface Finishing (Spray Painting)
Riviera would like these positions filled asap.
Applications (Cover Letter, Resume + Last two reports) close on Friday, 24 February.
Interviews starting week of Monday, 27 February.
Groups starting Monday, 20 March 2023.
For more information please contact:
Keira Badke
Safety & Training Cordinator
Riviera Australia Pty Ltd ABN: 55 139 663 906
50 Waterway Drive, Coomera QLD 4209 Australia
Tel: +61 7 5502 5409 +61 421 925 537
kbadke@riviera.com.au | www.RivieraAustralia.com.au
Bond Business School year 12 Extension Program
Applications are now open for the Bond Business School Year 12 Extension Program! The program is a two-day workshop where you will gain an insight into university life to assist you with the transition from high school to university.
Students have the opportunity to receive an early offer into Bond Business School. Top performing students in the program will receive a Year 12 Extension Program Scholarship.
The program will be completed well before ATAR exams and you can receive an early offer before QTAC’s offer rounds
There are two steams available:
| Business Stream | Maths Stream |
| Option One: Wednesday, 26 April and Thursday, 27 April, 2023 | Thursday, 13 April, 2023 and Friday, 14 April, 2023 |
| Option Two: Friday, 5 May and Saturday 6 May, 2023 | |
| Apply now | Apply now |
WHY DO THE PROGRAM?
- Eligible graduates from the Year 12 Extension Program will receive an early offer into their chosen degree, subject to meeting the academic entry requirements^.
- Opportunity to receive one of six Year 12 Extension Program Scholarships valued at 50% and 25% tuition fees or a $5,000 bursary.
- Be better prepared for your Year 12 exams. This program has been designed in collaboration with current high school teachers to ensure it supports the Queensland Curriculum.
- Access to the Bond FinTech Hub for a Bloomberg session.
- Limited places per day, allowing great access to our academics.
^Excludes the Bond Medical Program.
Applications close Friday, 24 March, 2023.
Want to speak with someone regarding the program?
See Mrs Crews in the Pathways Centre or contact the Bond Co-ordinator:
Brendan Howard
Bond Year 12 Extension Program Coordinator
M: 0413 744 809
E: bhoward@bond.edu.au
Defence Work Experience Program 2023
The Defence Work Experience Program (DWEP) is a national Youth Program that provides young Australians with an interest in a Defence career, the opportunity to gain exposure to a range of job roles available within Defence and the Australian Public Service. Defence work experience activities are designed to be hands on and interactive so that young people can make informed career decisions.
We are pleased to advise the following programs are now taking applications online with others to follow as the year progresses:
| Defence Work Experience Program (DWEP) | WEP Number | Program Dates | Applications Close | Location |
| Army Familiarisation Program | WEP/00330/23 | 27 – 29 March | 19-Feb | Gallipoli Barracks |
| Army Familiarisation Program | WEP/00373/23 | 17 – 19 April | 05-Mar | Gallipoli Barracks |
| Air Force Familiarisation Program | WEP/00422/23 | 17 – 19 April | 19-Feb | RAAF Amberley |
| Army Familiarisation Program | WEP/00376/23 | 08 – 10 May | 19-Mar | Gallipoli Barracks |
| Air Force Familiarisation Program | WEP/00424/23 | 29 – 31 May | 16-Apr | RAAF Amberley |
Applications may close before the advertised date if large volumes are received. Students are advised places are limited and are strongly encouraged to submit complete and considered applications as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. We work alongside ADF Units to bring students a valuable experience with serving personnel and therefore unforeseen changes to operational commitments may result in a placement being changed, postponed and/or cancelled at short notice.
Please monitor the DWEP website for updates on the program and to apply. Any questions regarding the work experience programs within South QLD can be forwarded to the South QLD Work Experience Program email address sqld.workexperience@defence.gov.au.
Want to study a Uni subject in Year 11 or 12? – Griffith University GUESTS Program
Applications are open for motivated students who wish to kick-start their Griffith University bachelor degree through the GUESTS program.
Benefits of the GUESTS program include:
- Complete the course while you’re still in high school
- Build skills and confidence
- Earn two adjustments and transfer credit when applying for eligible degrees
- Learn for free with no course fees
- Receive recognition on your QCE
- Earn Griffith Credentials
The GUESTS on-campus and online catalogue offers approximately 70 courses. Students can complete up to two courses, but no more than one 10 credit point (10CP) course per trimester.
Year 12 students are welcome to apply for Trimester 1 and 2 2023, while Year 11 students can apply for Trimester 2 and 3 2023.
Trimester 1 applications close 13 February,
To see course options, more details and to submit applications, visit the Griffith Uni GUESTS page
Co-curricular
Hillcrest Mountain Bike Trail – the perfect venue for coaching and training excellence
Last weekend, with the help of AusCycling Coach and Instructor Emma Rhymer, Hillcrest hosted it’s third annual Mountain Biking Instructor Training Course and our first Coaching Refresher course right here on our very own mountain biking trail. The training courses enable staff, senior students and parent helpers to be suitably trained to assist in the mountain biking program here at Hillcrest.
Congratulations to new junior coach Preston Robinson who joins our other student coaches, Kye Hannant, Kye Pyyvaara and Seb Borrelli. Thanks also to our new parent helpers stepping up this year, namely Jay Stockwell, Michael Robinson and Drew Doty, adding to the existing ranks of Tony Bogatie, Paul Pyyvaara and Mark Brosnan. Fantastic to see our parents getting alongside our students in healthy outdoor activities as we head out weekly to explore the local trails in Nerang National Park.
Special mention to Blair Schooley, our first trained parent helper in our first year of mountain biking here at Hillcrest in 2018 – his support each week out on the trails was an integral part of our program’s success. Thank you Blair!
Student Achievements
National Win for Year 12 student Zach Smith
While most students were enjoy their last few days of the summer break, Zach Smith (Yr 12) was competing at the U18 National Baseball tournament in Blacktown, NSW. Over the nine-day tournament Zach and the Queensland team played against each state to book a ticket into the super round. The highlight of pool play was the game against South Australia. If they lost, they would be out of the top four, if they won, they would be ranked #1 for the super round. The team was down 9 nil against SA when the coach decided to put Zach onto the mound. Not only did he blow the opposition away with his pitching but the Queensland team found their drive and came back to win the game with a walk off 10-9. The gold medal game came last Tuesday, 17 January where Queensland faced off against the favourites Western Australia. The lead changed numerous times throughout the game but in true Queensland fashion, they took it down to the wire and came out on top, winning 7-4. Queensland haven’t won this National Title since 2014! An Australian squad will be named in the coming weeks in preparation for World Cup. We wish Zach all the best as he vies for the Australian Squad and congratulate him on his recent successes.
Other News
Bus Services
Welcome back to Term 1 of 2023. It has been a wonderful start to the year, and exceptionally busy with new travel registrations. This is very exciting as we continue to build on our service and expand to meet the growing needs of our community.
We would also like to thank all our families for your patience while we have been working through registrations, queries, and bookings to ensure bus travel is as smooth as possible for all our children and families.
With the start of this year, we would like to provide the following information:
- If you had been travelling in Term 4 last year, your bookings have been rolled over, using the bookings pattern of week 7, 14 – 18 November 2022 and your travel pass will remain the same as in 2022 unless you have provided written notice of a change to your travel pass. We kindly ask that you check your bookings and notify us of any changes as soon as possible.
- Student Cards are currently in process and all students in Year 5 and up will receive their Student Cards in the next few weeks. 2022 Student Cards are still active until the new Student Cards are distributed. Please ensure your child is using their Student Card to always tag on and off the bus. Students Year 1 to 4 who travelled last year will also be issued their 2023 Student Cards.
- If these initial Student Cards are misplaced, a new card must be ordered at a small fee through our website under Bus Services, Bus Service | Hillcrest Christian College and lanyards are available free of charge from one of the Bus Drivers if your child wishes to secure their Student Card to their bag.
- Permanent bookings can be changed through the RollCall app dependent on availability, and we advise that permanent bookings will receive priority seat allocation.
- Casual users can make bookings up to 2 weeks in advance, noting that seats are allocated based on availability as per Government Legislation. Should there be insufficient seats for additional students who show up on the day to catch the bus as casual users, Parents/Carers will be contacted accordingly.
- In consideration for other students in our community, we kindly ask that if your student is booked to travel and will be absent on a certain day, you ensure the absence is marked in the RollCall App to free up the seat for another bus traveller. We have several full buses, and these seats being made available will help other families wishing to travel. RollCall Absence
- Families wishing to use the Bus Service for the first time are encouraged to visit our website and register for Bus travel using the Bus Sign-up Form. Once this has been processed, an email will be sent to you inviting you to engage with RollCall, our Bus Management System. Please ensure your bookings have stops allocated. Making a Booking
- Accounts are required to be kept up to date and paid at the start of each term for the chosen Travel pass and paid using the RollCall App. RollCall Payment If your account runs more than 4 weeks in arrears, travel will be at risk for suspension until the account is brought up to date.
If you require information or support with your Bus travel, please let us know as we would be happy to assist and ensure travel with us is one of ease.
For further information regarding our Bus Services, please feel free to visit our school website, Hillcrest Christian College – Bus Services, or email the Bus Team at buses@hillcrest.qld.edu.au.
We once again thank you for joining us this year for Bus Travel and hope it will be a great year for all.
School Zone Safety – advice for motorists
With school back, it’s a timely reminder to drivers to slow down in school zones and pay attention at children’s crossings. Coming back after holidays it can be easy to forget what to look out for.
School zone signs are displayed as you approach the school and shows both the speed limit and the times you need to reduce your speed around the school. Children’s crossings are identified by children crossing flags, which are displayed near crossings before and after school hours.
When the crossing is supervised, you as a motorist must:
- wait until all pedestrians, bicycle or personal mobility device riders have crossed the road and the crossing supervisor has returned to the footpath
- abide by the direction given by the School Crossing Supervisor.
If the crossing is unsupervised, you as a motorist must:
- give way to pedestrians, bicycle, or personal mobility device riders on or entering a children’s, pedestrian or marked foot crossings
- give way to pedestrians, bicycle, or personal mobility device riders on or entering a road you’re turning into
- give way to pedestrians, bicycle, or personal mobility device riders on a slip lane
- give way to pedestrians in a share zone
- travel at a speed allowing you to stop safely at a crossing if needed
As a driver, it’s important to make sure you give way to all pedestrians, bicycle, or personal mobility device riders such as skateboards, e-scooters. You must also give way to pedestrians using a motorised mobility device such as a motorised wheelchair or a mobility scooter.
Some of our most vulnerable road users are children getting to and from school, so it’s important to slow down and abide by the crossing rules, as it won’t make much difference to the trip time, but it could very well save lives.
Visit the Street Smarts website to find more information about what to do at pedestrian and children crossings.
Can Your Business Help our Students
The Pathways Team is looking for opportunities for our students. Can you offer:
- Work experience?
- A school based
- Traineeship/apprenticeship?
- Other opportunities to
- Benefit our senior students?
Contact Lucinda Crews, Pathways Engagement Coordinator lcrews@hillcrest.qld.edu.au.
