Hillcrest News

10 November 2023

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

Romans 12:12

Jeff Davis
Executive Head of College

Executive Head of College, Jeff Davis shares an update from the last two weeks.

Blessings

ELC

Early Learning

JLC

Junior Years

MLC

Middle Years

SLC

Senior Years

Co-curricular

Sports, PA & More

Other News

Other News & Key Dates

Key Dates

Culture and Wellbeing

Operation Christmas Child

This year, MLC, SLC and VLC participated in the wonderful initiative that aims to spread love and joy during this festive season – Operation Christmas Child. Operation Christmas Child is a global initiative that allows us to extend a helping hand to children in need around the world.

We collated over 125 boxes full of gifts and handwritten cards, and then prayed for them as they were delivered to the distribution centre. Our students across the College embraced this incredible initiative, with some doing it as a family, with a friend or as a Life Group. It has been such a valuable experience to instill empathy and gratitude in our students. Thank you for your support and involvement as we made Term 4 a season of giving, love, and hope for children who need it most.

Wellbeing Refresher

Heading toward the holiday period, the end of year where stress and fatigue build, we tend to forget about the good habits we set in place at the start of the year when life felt fresh. I was grateful to share some tips to manage this with an SLC group, explaining positive psychology is not simply the art of being positive. In fact, it challenges us to experience and accept unpleasant emotions that come with challenges as an inevitable part of life, and the ‘positive’ aspect of it all, is how we process it. So, we use Gratitude, Empathy, and Mindfulness – GEM. Our young people and adults alike, can make an intentional choice to take a moment to write, say or think the following;

Gratitude: reflect on a tough day, feeling overwhelmed, deflated, tired. Show thanks for the day; ‘I’m grateful to have had another day’ or ‘Today was tough, and I’m grateful for the support I had’.

Empathy: challenge the tough stuff with positive and text the person who helped on a bad day, write a kind post-it note to stick on a family members phone, choose the attended check out at the shops and ask the staff how they are!

Mindfulness: do body scan, a breathing routine easily accessible on our smart watches or phones, watch the kettle boil, noticing the changing sounds.

With the intentional moments we have the chance to cultivate positive experiences even among the chaos. Perhaps as we move toward the end of term and into the holiday season, we can choose to have these moments and be grateful for the now and the next however heavy or light it may be.

Resources are available via ‘The Resilience Project’ and ‘Smiling Mind’ app.

From the ELC

Dear ELC Families

It’s been an exciting time at our Kindy as we celebrated a very special event – our Kindy graduation. The morning was filled joy, smiles and pride as we witnessed our young learners preparing to take their next step in their educational journey. The growth and development we’ve seen in these children has been wonderful, and a testament to their hard work and curious minds, with the guidance of their talented teachers.

In addition to our Kindy graduation, we also participated in ‘Day for Daniel’, a day dedicated to child safety awareness. It was heartwarming to see our little ones engage in meaningful conversations with both their friends and teachers about staying safe. These discussions are crucial for their well-being, and we are thrilled to be a part of this important initiative.

Our learning continues with our children engaging in literacy and numeracy activities, whilst also exploring the world of technology with the Bee bots, helping our young learners take turns, problem-solve directions, and understand action, reaction, and directional language. Everyday allows us the opportunity learn, explore, investigate, connect and so much more. It is with continued enthusiasm that we look forward to the remaining weeks at Kindy and a growing excitement to the most wonderful time of the year.

Di Gontier
Director of the Early Learning Community

From JLC Leadership

Dear JLC Families,

Last week, it was lovely to be part of the Kindy Graduation and see so many families gather to mark this special occasion. Our Kindy children are about to make the big step into the world of formal schooling, and we can’t wait to welcome them into Prep and the Junior Learning Community in 2024. We also thank all Year 4 families who attended Wednesday night’s information session for Year 5 in the MLC, we hope it was informative and was able to answer any of your questions.

We have two weeks remaining in the JLC and we are all looking forward to our remaining events and celebration days. Please see dates below:

Week 8
Monday 20 November

9:30am – Prep 2024 Orientation Day – Classrooms and Theatre

Thursday 23 November

8:45am – Year 2 Christmas Concert – Terrace Hall
10.00am – Year 3-4 Celebration and Awards – Terrace Hall

We look forward to seeing all the JLC families as we celebrate the success and growth of your child over the 2023 school year.

Blessings

Christy Gittins
Head Junior Learning Community

What’s been happening in the JLC

Prep Raspberry: Exploring the Fascinating World of Movement

Prep Raspberry has been on an exciting journey of discovery, exploring the enchanting world of movement through our DCL unit. From understanding the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of everyday objects in motion to diving into the intriguing design of moving toys, our class have been on a captivating adventure.

With their newfound knowledge, they eagerly embraced the challenge of designing, creating, building, and evaluating their own moving objects. As we approach the holiday season, our budding inventors have taken on a special Christmas project, tasked with crafting a Christmas toy that can move using various properties.

This exploration has allowed the children to not only comprehend the science behind movement but also to express their creativity and innovation. We are immensely proud of their achievements and their unique creations!

Prep: When I Grow Up!

On Friday, 3 November the Preps were excited to dress up as want they would like to be when they grow up. The Prep deck was buzzing with excitement as astronauts, doctors, chefs, builders and even budding teachers were ready for the day. The Preppies were blessed to have guest speakers who shared their knowledge about their respective professions. A big thank you to our parent volunteers who took the time out of their busy weeks to share with our students. It was an inspiring morning which has sparked the student’s curiosity to think about what they might like to do when they are older.

1TW Spotlight on Learning

Over the last two weeks, 1TW have embarked on a joyful journey of exploring the names of Jesus, as our very own advent to the Christmas break. Delving into the significance of names like ‘Prince of Peace’, ‘Everlasting Father’ and ‘Cornerstone’, we connect these titles to meaningful actions and experiences, making them a part of our daily lives. Each day leading up to the end of Term 4, we uncover a new name, accompanied by a Bible verse revealing its origin. This practice reinforces our commitment to faith and community, reminding us the true reason for the season – the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Learning in Year 2: Spotlight on 2MR

Alright, who bought Term 4 such a fast car?! While it has been zooming by at an alarming rate, we’ve been trying to make the most of this precious time together. I quickly zipped around the room to capture some of our work during ‘Literacy Upgrade’ time, as we completed activities to help with our individual Writing Goals and some of us were working on other learning goals with our incredible teacher aides! We are so grateful for the work of our aides and their heart and passion for helping children to grow. Superheroes in disguise! ‍

3TC goes Solar!

This term in Year 3 we challenged the students to develop their own Solar Ovens using their knowledge about heat methods. Their task was to select and use materials that would help them create a solar oven that could melt a chocolate drop and marshmallow onto a cookie and make a gooey Smore. It was a sticky success!

The Green Team Chronicles: Year 4MB’s Journey Towards a Greener Planet!

Let’s delve into the latest adventures of our amazing Green Team! This year, 4MB have taken up the challenge to champion a healthier, more sustainable planet, and we’re here to celebrate their incredible achievements!

Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling: The 4MB Way
4MB’s dedication to the environment has been nothing short of extraordinary! From crafting eye-catching posters that spotlight the importance of marine health, to conducting hands-on lessons about responsible waste disposal, they’ve shown us all what it truly means to be eco-warriors.

Bin Wizards: Navigating the labyrinth of waste disposal can be a tricky task, but not for 4MB! With their guidance, every student is learning which bin is the perfect fit for their recyclables, food waste, and other materials. Their efforts ensure that we’re not just learning about recycling; we’re living it!

The Green Team: An Inspiration to Us All
4MB’s commitment to the environment is nothing short of inspiring. The name “Green Team” isn’t just a title; it’s a testament to their dedication to creating a greener, healthier planet for generations to come. They’re proving that small actions can lead to big change!

Keep up the fantastic work, 4MB Green Team!

From the Head of the MLC

Dear Parents/Carers

Greetings from the chilly New England area of America, in the North East. I am writing this message from the Capitol of Connecticut, Hartford but we have spent most of the last week travelling around the city of New Haven and Yale University in particular. Today we are in Hartford for the closing ceremony of the World Scholar’s Tournament of Champions where our 12 students have competed as the youngest teams in the Senior division of the competition. Our students have been amazing with all four teams representing themselves and our College well during the past few days of competition. This is the third time we have flown to America to compete in the Tournament of Champions and our overall debating score is now 22 wins out of 27 debates over the three years. This is a remarkable result that most schools across the world would struggle to match. We look forward to seeing our other results later this afternoon and the students are excited to see how they have fared on the world stage.

I have a few fun facts to share below that we have picked up along the way during the trip;

New Haven is known as the Elm City because of the beautiful elm trees that line its streets
The first church in New Haven opened in 1638 and Yale University opened in 1701.
Yale students invented the frisbee while playing with pizza boxes.
We have eaten at Louis’ Lunch which is the birthplace of the hamburger, they still use the same grills from 1898.
The Payne Whitney Gymnasium at Yale has 12 acres of indoor sports faculties including the countries first above ground level pool located on Level 3.
We visited Harvard University in Boston which was America’s first tertiary institution opening in 1636.
While in Boston, we walked past many historic sites, one of the most famous being Old State House. We stood under the balcony where the Declaration of Independence was read in 1776.

We are leaving Connecticut tomorrow to head to Washington DC and New York for a few days before finally heading home on a mammoth 24hrs plus of travelling. Please keep the team in your prayers and we look forward to returning next week with some incredible experiences to share with the community.

Darren Rackemann
Head of 5 – 12

What’s been happening in the MLC

Year 8 “Funtastic Fete” HaSS Project

This term in HaSS, we are creating a product to sell at the Funtastic Fete on Saturday, 18 November. Everyone is creating unique products. We came up with our idea through the design process and pitched our ideas to staff. If our pitch was successful, we have been given $30 each as an investment from the College. After sales, we need to return this money, along with $1 interest which will be going to charity.

The best thing about this experience is that it gives us an opportunity to make money and gain experience as an entrepreneur. “It’s hard to create a product that we think people will buy, but we have to kind of bet on ourselves to make some money.”

Carmichael F – Creating Vision Boards with the Yes I Can Program

This term in Carmichael F we have been looking through the Yes I Can program that introduces opportunities for personal growth, empowerment and developing resilience in our students. As part of this journey, we’ve been exploring purpose through the lenses of clarity, drive, and values, which help us set a clear direction and target to focus on. In the program, we’ve delved into how purpose gives us the clarity to identify our passions and dreams. We create vision boards as a creative tool to reinforce this understanding. They provide visual representations of our dreams and goals, offering clarity, motivation, and focus as we pursue them. Through this creative process, students gained insights into their passions and to stay inspired. This personal journey is also a chance for students to share and support one another in their pursuit of success.

MLC Life Group Greene D – It’s Christmas Time!

This week in the MLC Christmas has arrived! In Greene D we had the exciting task of setting up the Christmas tree on Level 2 of the Precinct! With tons of energy and great collaboration they turned an ordinary tree into a festive masterpiece. The twinkling lights and colorful decorations are like a burst of joy, reminding us that this season is all about togetherness, celebrating our connections and spreading the love of Jesus. Big shoutout to Greene D for helping make the MLC Precinct feel so merry and bright!

Year 7 History Exhibition

Last Thursday Year 7 transformed level 1 into an immersive historical museum for Year 6 to explore and discover more about ancient historical figures. This incursion was also to help introduce the Year 7 learning space and for them to get to know the Year 7 students and workload. In Term 4 the Year 7 cohort created WeVideos to display their knowledge on their chosen historical figure.

Year 7 separated into three civilisations: Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, and Ancient China. To make the Year 6 experience as immersive and engaging as possible, the civilisations created decorations according to civilisations’ culture. Ancient Egypt created a tomb in which Year 6 could go inside, they also created mummies, gave the kids ancient Egyptian makeovers, VR headsets showing the inside of a tomb and decorated their table with special features of their chosen figure. Ancient Greece decorated with cardboard Greek buildings and mythology. Ancient China hung paper lanterns from the ceiling and served tea to Year 6 so that they could experience what it was like to live in Ancient China.

Year 7 students displayed their WeVideos to Year 6 to show the importance of historical figures now. In conclusion the exhibit/incursion was a success as both of the grades learnt more about each other and history.

Hannah (7C) and Kayla (7E)

Year 8 Economics Fete Project

The students have pitched their ideas, loans have been granted, and prototyping is complete. Year 8 are now in mass production of their products and finalising rules and prizes for their games – ready for the Funtastic Fete stalls. Here’s a taste of only a few products currently in production:

Tote bags
Perfume
Bracelets x 2
Christmas headbands
Dog toys
Indoor plants

Make sure to look out for these at the Funtastic Fete!

Year 5 Breezy Beach Walks

On a brisk and windy Friday afternoon, our Year 5 students embarked on an eagerly anticipated beach walk, ready to have an adventure. The weather, however, had a different plan in store. As the afternoon unfolded, the pleasant afternoon gave way to gusty winds and persistent rain. Undeterred by the unexpected weather, our resilient students pushed forward, determined to make the most of their beach excursion. This beach walk wasn’t just a stroll; it became an adventure, a test of their spirit, and a lesson in finding joy and fun even in the face of challenging weather.

From the Head of the SLC

Dear Parents/Carers

I have a few fun facts to share below that we have picked up along the way during the trip;

New Haven is known as the Elm City because of the beautiful elm trees that line its streets
The first church in New Haven opened in 1638 and Yale University opened in 1701.
Yale students invented the frisbee while playing with pizza boxes.
We have eaten at Louis’ Lunch which is the birthplace of the hamburger, they still use the same grills from 1898.
The Payne Whitney Gymnasium at Yale has 12 acres of indoor sports faculties including the countries first above ground level pool located on Level 3.
We visited Harvard University in Boston which was America’s first tertiary institution opening in 1636.
While in Boston, we walked past many historic sites, one of the most famous being Old State House. We stood under the balcony where the Declaration of Independence was read in 1776.

Darren Rackemann
Head of 5 – 12

What’s been happening in the SLC

Hong Kong Mission Trip

We are thrilled to share the incredible experiences of the recent Hillcrest Christian College mission trip to Hong Kong. Nine Year 11 students, accompanied by Mr Colefax and Mrs Cecil, embarked on an unforgettable 11-day journey during the September school holidays. This mission trip was a powerful blend of service, cultural exchange, and adventure, leaving a lasting impact on all involved.

Accompanied also by Hillcrest Board Chair, Mr Lewis and Mrs Lewis, the first week of the mission trip was dedicated to connecting with the local community and serving alongside the long-time global charity, Crossroads International, situated on the picturesque so Kwun Wat (Gold Coast), Hong Kong. It was here that our students truly discovered the profound joy of selfless service. Mr and Mrs Lewis have served the Crossroads community for many years and it was great to have their knowledge and experience with our Hillcrest team on this inaugural trip.

Activities ranged from packing boxes of donated equipment, refurbishing computers and electrical equipment, engaging in real-world simulations to the highlight of the week: packing a massive 40-foot shipping container bound for Ukraine. Witnessing our students come together as a team, working diligently to make a positive change in the lives of those less fortunate, was a heartwarming experience for all involved. The sense of accomplishment was palpable as they realized the direct impact of their efforts on the lives of others.

As the mission’s service phase concluded, the students transitioned to exploring the vibrant and bustling streets of Hong Kong. These final days were dedicated to experiencing the rich culture and history of this dynamic city.

Highlights of the final few days included a visit to Lantau Island, where students marvelled at the majestic Big Buddha, visiting Victoria Peak, which offered breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape, and a scenic cruise on the harbor to witness the captivating Symphony of Lights. These experiences allowed our students to gain a deeper understanding of Hong Kong’s diverse culture, history, and traditions.

The Hillcrest Christian College mission trip to Hong Kong was more than just a journey—it was a transformative experience for all participants. Our students not only developed a deeper sense of empathy and global awareness but also forged bonds of friendship and camaraderie that will last a lifetime.

Mr Colefax remarked, “It was inspiring to witness our students embrace the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Their dedication and compassion are a testament to the values we hold dear at Hillcrest.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the students, Mr and Mrs Lewis, Mrs Cecil and Mr Colefax, who made this mission trip possible. Your dedication to making a difference in the world is truly commendable.

As we look ahead, we anticipate that the experiences gained during this mission trip will continue to shape the character and perspective of our students. They return to Hillcrest with a deeper sense of purpose, an expanded worldview, and a commitment to serving others.

Should your child be interested in embarking on this experience in 2024, please respond to the expressions of interest email that was sent out to the SLC community earlier this week or contact SLC Admin for more details.

Pathways News

Virtual Futures Open Day – School holiday activity

Please see the attached flier for details regarding the upcoming Virtual Futures XR Open day.

School-based Traineeship Vacancies for the Gold Coast and Brisbane Regions

First Choice College is working with local businesses to form traineeship opportunities for Gold Coast and Brisbane based students. Our School-Based Traineeship program is designed to help students gain practical skills and valuable work experience while still completing their High School studies.

If you are a Year 10, 11 or 12 student – or are the parent of a student interested in completing one of our qualifications as a School-Based Trainee please get in touch with our Traineeship Pathways Team by emailing traineeship@fcc.edu.au or by phoning the office on 07 5689 5060.

Benefits of our program include:
» Industry relevant training provided by industry experts
» Hands-on work experience
» A supportive learning environment
» Opportunities for career advancement

See here for more information

School-based Apprenticeship Opportunities – The Star Casino Gold Coast

The Star Culinary Institute are currently accepting applications for School Based Apprentice Chefs to commence at The Star Gold Coast in 2024.

Please see attached flyer for more information and to register your interest.

Full-time Business Administration Trainee – Finance Firm, Burleigh Heads

Please see below an opportunity from our school community, most suited to Year 12 completing students for a full-time traineeship in Business Administration (Finance firm).

Join a dynamic financial advice practice in Burleigh Heads as a Business Administration Trainee! Gain hands-on experience in finance and administration while working towards a Certificate III in Business. Responsibilities include reception duties, administration support, and customer service. The ideal candidate must have computer skills, attention to detail, and a professional attitude. The role offers full-time hours, above award wages, mentorship, and opportunities for career progression in a supportive work environment. Kickstart your career in finance and administration today!

More information and to submit an application HERE

Southern Cross Scholars Program now open (Student for a semester)

Southern Cross Scholars offers Year 11 and 12 students the opportunity to study a university subject while still in high school. This free program gives you advanced academic skills to help you blitz your final years in high school. It offers you the choice of a subject of interest, and to experience university life at one of our campuses – Gold Coast, Lismore, Coffs Harbour or online.
The proposed times for face-to-face learning for our 2024 intake of Southern Cross Scholars will be after school hours, with an online Workshop later in the week. This six-week program will run from approximately 4 March – 12 April.

Southern Cross are running an in-depth webinar where students and parents can find out more, ask any questions they have and also meet our academic staff.
Wednesday, 15 November 2023
6:30pm (NSW) | 5:30pm (QLD)

Future Doctors Australia Program – December (Brisbane) and 2024 dates

Have you considered medicine as a future career option?
Do you know what it is like to study medicine at university?
What do you know about the pathways to get into medical school?
What about life as a junior doctor OR a registrar?
Have you thought of different specialties in medicine?
Would you like to meet and spend time with some very high-profile medical specialists?

All of this and much much more can be achieved by attending one of the Future Doctors Australia program sessions brought to you by the National Institute of Education – Careers.

www.niecareers.com.au

School holiday program – Airline Builders Innovation In Aviation Program – Students in Years 4-10

The following event is open to all students interested in aviation. There will be 2x streams – a primary program for students in years 4-6 and a senior program for students in years 7-10.

* The program will run Wednesday 17th and Thursday 18th January, 2024. The two day program will run each day from 9:00 am – 3:00pm at Aviation Australia’s campus, 15 Boronia Road, Brisbane Airport, Queensland.

* Students don’t need any prior experience for this program, only an interest and willingness to participate.

* Tickets for the program are $120 Book Here

✈️Airline Builders✈️

If You Could Build Your Own Airline, What Would It Look Like?

The Airline Builders Innovation In Aviation Program is BACK and better than ever! We have partnered up with Aviation Australia and Aerospace Gateway School once again to bring you an exciting program for our students who are passionate about the Aviation industry.

Over the course of two-action packed days, the Airline Builders school holiday program with Aviation Australia will see students working to bring their own airline to life as they learn what it takes to get an airline off the ground.

Over the course of the program students will be analysing the current airlines flying in Australia, identifying a gap in the market, and creating their plan for an airline to service the Australian market either regionally, domestically or internationally. Students will be selecting aircraft types, planning routes, designing livery and flight attendant uniforms, planning the business case and pitching their airlines to the Aviation Australia team at the conclusion of the program.

With industry speakers, hands-on experiences and a tour of the Aviation Australia hangar and aircraft training facilities, students will leave this program inspired by the opportunities available to them in the aviation industry. Whether you’re wanting to explore a career in aviation, or if you’re just wanting to spend a few days diving deep in to all things commercial aviation, this hands-on program is full of exciting opportunities to help you bring your ideas to life.

We can’t wait to see you there!

BOOK NOW

Pathways into Medicine and Dentistry (Years 10- 12 students) NIE webinar 15 November

Considering a Career in Medicine or Dentistry?

UCAT, Interviews, Med School Applications, Pathways into Medicine and Dentistry (for universities in Australia)

Free Webinar

An Excellent Opportunity for Students, Teachers and Parents

~ 15 November 2023, 7.00pm – 9.00pm (AEDT) ~

REGISTER NOW

An invaluable forum recommended to students considering a career in Medicine or Dentistry, and especially for those who already know that they will be sitting the UCAT or attending Med School Interviews.

This forum is an excellent opportunity for students and parents to find out about the UCAT, Interviews, Pathways into Medicine, and have all questions answered by expert teachers who have been working in the field since 1999.

The session is PACKED with invaluable information during which we will be covering the following topics, and more.

What is UCAT? UCAT scores? UCAT Sub-tests?
Year 10, 11 and 12 – things to consider now.
The Undergraduate Selection Criteria
Application process into universities for medicine and dentistry
When and who can sit the UCAT
GAMSAT
Can you prepare for the UCAT?
Undergraduate interview process
Med School Applications
Gap Year
Alternative degrees and career choices
Q&A

WHAT’S ON AT NIE?

Limited availability left: Future Doctors Program and Academic Insights Program – Medicine, Psychology, Business, Engineering, Veterinarian & more. (For Years 9 – 12)

4 – 5 November 2023: Intensive Interview Preparation Workshop (For Years 10, 11, 12)

16 December 2023: Simulated UCAT Day – Intensive UCAT Training Workshop (For Years 10, 11, 12)

Complete UCAT Courses – various levels of preparation and options available to meet individual student needs.

UCAT Preparation Workshop – 5 UCAT sections covered + full mock exam under timed conditions + introduction to medical interviews.

UCAT Textbooks – recommended list of textbooks to support your UCAT and Interview preparation.

Medical Interviews Workshop – lift your performance above the competition, validating your sincerity and burning positive lasting impressions into the minds of the selection panel.

Free online Metaverse micro-credentials for high school students from TAFE

Metaverse Micro Credentials
TAFE Queensland is excited to offer three FREE online micro-credentials to high school students in Queensland to become Metaverse-ready and well-prepared for digital futures. These micro-credentials have been developed in collaboration with industry. Students will learn industry trends such as digital twins and 3D scanning, what technology is involved in creating real-time applications, and its industry use cases, and get some tips from industry professionals.

Please click here for the flyer with further details.

‘Your Future hasn’t been written yet. No one’s has. Your future is whatever you make it. So make it a good one – Doc Brown’, Back to the Future

This is an amazing opportunity if you have any further questions you can contact Richard Barrett, Richard.BARRETT@tafeqld.edu.au

NIE Academic Insights Program – Medicine, Psychology, Veterinary Studies, Engineering, International Relations, Business Management, and Creative Writing Residential Program 3-13 January

Attention students 13-18 years old.

The National Institute of Education (NIE) Australia has partnered with Immerse Education to bring you the Academic Insights Program for Medicine, Psychology, Veterinary Studies, Engineering, International Relations, Business Management, and Creative Writing

The Academic Insights Program is designed to work as an instant accelerant to boost and fast-track the development of individual drive and motivation. The program will see students live and study at Australia’s top-ranked university, The University of Sydney. Just like university students, participants will attend lectures, tuitions, complete a research assignment, and of course, be involved in an array of social and cultural activities. As this is a residential program, students will be living at St Paul’s College (University of Sydney) residential facility for the duration of the program.

The academic components of the program will be facilitated by academics from Oxford and Cambridge Universities, who will fly in and stay for the 10-day duration of the program. In addition to all other activities, students will be receiving a Certificate of Completion, a detailed personalised performance review, and a personalised letter of recommendation, which they can use for applying to universities and various scholarship programs.

Please note, that the number of places for this program is limited and strictly capped for each faculty, therefore, if you are interested, then please ENROL soon to avoid the disappointment of missing out.

Program Inclusions:

10 nights’ accommodation in a college at the University of Sydney
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in College Hall
Accommodation in an individual bedroom
35 hours of academic sessions from Oxford University and Cambridge University tutors
Carefully designed study and lecture materials
Mentor program and access to support material
Formal hall dinners at the University of Sydney
Visits to iconic landmarks including Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbour, and the Taronga Zoo
Cultural and social activities including Australian Football, Cricket, and opportunities for BBQ
Graduation ceremony and certificate
A detailed evaluation is written by the tutors
Mentor family photograph
Free premium membership to UniPrepare’s ‘Nurture’ plan

For more detailed information about the cost and how to enrol please visit:

NIE CAREERS

ADF Virtual Defence Career Information Session – 6 November 10am

Learn more about Hospitality, Health, and Trade roles available in the Navy, Army and Air Force by attending the upcoming information session happening 10:00am – 11:00am, Monday, 6 November, through an online session via Microsoft Teams.

The Australian Defence Force is a modern, people-focused organisation and one of Australia’s major employers. With over 200 roles on offer, there’s a wide range of specialist military positions, support roles, trades and professions to choose from.

More information and to register

Gold Coast SUNS TAFE at School Program

Please see the attached flyer for information on the Gold Coast Suns Tafe at School Program.

Apprenticeship and Traineeship Opportunities (full time and school-based)

There are a range of Apprenticeship and Traineeship opportunities available through MAS National for students looking for either a full time (Year 12 completing students) or school-based.

To view the current openings and to apply, please visit here and use the search functions to refine the list.

Full-time First Year Apprenticeships in Engineering, Construction and Automotive Industries (completing Year 12 students)

There are full-time first year apprenticeships in the engineering, construction and automotive industries that have become available and would suit completing Year 12 students wishing to pick up a trade apprenticeship.

Boiler Maker x 1 – Ipswich
Boiler Maker x 1 – Rocklea
Boiler Maker x 1 – Richlands
Mechanical Fitter x 1 – Acacia Ridge
Fitter & Turner x 1 – Acacia Ridge
Automotive Parts Interpreter x 1 – Lytton
Painter x 1 – Gold Coast
Painter x 1 – Brisbane Southside
Painter x 1 – Brisbane Northside

Any interested students to please foward your resume and cover letter to kylie@ogt.com.au as soon as possible.

Kylie Lacey, School Liaison Manager1300 676 222 / 0413 231 998

School Holiday work available – Paradise Resort Gold Coast, Food and Beverae Attendant

School holiday work available at Paradise Resort Gold Coast. See flyer for details.

School-based Traineeships at The Club at Parkwood Village

Gain QCE Points and boost your employability while getting paid to work in a fun environment with a great team.The Club at Parkwood is offering school-based traineeships to students in Hospitality, Business, Horticulture, Commercial Cookery and Events. Senior students are invited to apply for the Club’s Traineeship program, alongside study of a certificate II (Horticulture) or III (Business or Commercial Cookery). For more information and to apply, visit the Club Parkwood Village Traineeship Page

School-based Traineeships and Casual Employment at Boost Juice Burleigh Heads

Two vacancies – School-based traineeships
Boost Juice Burleigh Heads are actively looking for new team members (Year 10 or 11) who would be prepared to complete a Cert 111 Business as part of their employment.

Two vacancies – Casual Employment
Boost Juice Burleigh Heads are actively looking for Year 9 or 10 students who may have classes that allow them to start work by 3pm on one or more week days and definitely have full availability throughout the school holidays.

Please see Mrs McCully in the Pathways office to express your interest.

Casual Employment Opportunity – Optus Retail store, Stocklands Burleigh Heads

Sales Assistant position at the Burleigh Heads (Stocklands) store, however additional positions may open in other Gold Coast and Tweed stores soon.Career pathways available from casual staff members into leadership and management opportunities for the right person in the role.More information on SEEK, or see Mrs Crews or Mrs McCully in the Pathways Centre for direct contact details.

Future Doctors Australia program

‘The Future Doctors Australia’ program is now open! Please note, the spots in this program are strictly limited.

The Future Doctors Australia program offers a unique opportunity for students (ages: 14-18) aspiring to pursue a career in medicine. Through engaging sessions led by experienced medical specialists, practical learning activities, and insights into the admission process, the program aims to inspire and equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their medical journey. This is an incredible opportunity to gain valuable insights and guidance from medical professionals who are passionate about shaping the future of healthcare.

Dates of upcoming programs:
Brisbane: 9 – 12 December 2023
Melbourne: 25 – 28 January 2024

For further information and enrolment details please visit WWW.NIECAREERS.COM.AU

Co-curricular

Performing Arts Fundraising Calendar

Hillcrest Mountain Biking 2023 Team Leader Jerseys

Massive congratulations to Kai and Vincent for taking out the 2023 Best Senior and Junior Hillcrest rider jerseys for their efforts at the Queensland Rocky Trail Academy competitions this year. The school supported four of the events; Vincent managed to get to six and Kai attended all seven in the Queensland series. Remarkable results from both riders below: WELL DONE YOU TWO – flying the Hillcrest MTB flag high!!
Kai Results
Brisbane Schools – Gold
Darling Downs Schools Toowoomba – Gold
Gold Coast Schools – Gold
Central QLD Schools Rockhampton – Gold
Sunshine Coast Schools – Gold
South East QLD Schools Ipswich – Gold
Graduation Cup Nerang Team Event – Silver
Vincent Results
Brisbane Schools – Silver
Darling Downs Schools Toowoomba – Bronze
Gold Coast Schools – SilverKeep a close eye on these two riders as they continue smashing out their passion on two wheels into the 2024 season and beyond!

Parents & Friends

Funtastic Fete

Ride Passes
One of the most exciting elements of the Fete is always the rides! This Fete promises to deliver some fantastic rides and attractions. For the big kids we have Dodgem cars, Round Up and the Ranger. For the little ones we have the bouncing castle, cup and saucer and the Mini Tug Ride. There will also be the rock climbing wall, Wipeout, Soccer shoot out and the triple screamer giant slide. All of these rides are included in the unlimited ride passes. Rides begin from 2pm.

We will be selling unlimited ride band passes for the day and you will be able to purchase these at a discounted rate prior to the fete. We will be posting a full list of rides with the appropriate age/ height/ weight restrictions on the booking link.
Unlimited Ride Passes Advance Purchase – Ride pass prices are the same for adults and children. Adults do not need to purchase a ticket unless they wish to ride the major rides. An adult can accompany their young child on a minor ride without a ticket such as the Triple Screamer Slide.

Prices for advance tickets are as follows:
$40.00 per ticket and
$35.00 per ticket for 3 or more children in the family at Hillcrest.

Advance Tickets are now on sale through Eventbrite. We will also be selling ride passes for cash at school for those who prefer not to purchase online. We will advertise the dates closer to the day.

Ticket sales close for Advance purchase on Friday, 17 November. After this time, tickets will be available on the day in either single ride tickets or unlimited arm band. Unlimited Arm Band on the day is $48.00.

Extra activities will also be available on the day that are not included in the unlimited arm bands. Some of these include the pony rides, hungry hippo, the reptile attraction, bungy jump and inflatable bubble soccer. Tickets can purchased on the day for these here.

Preloved Book Stall
One of our class stalls this year is the Preloved Book stall. We are seeking any unused books you are wanting to give away. Drop off is at Main Reception anytime or in top drop off every Monday between 7.15am – 8.30am. Please ensure books are in clean saleable condition.

Art Competition
The Fete Art Competition is back for 2023! The competition is open to all ages and entry is a gold coin donation. Please keep an eye out for the entry form on Facebook and via email.

Baking
Baking will be on the Wednesday – Friday before the fete onsite. We will have all the ingredients; we just need volunteers to bake and package. Please contact us if you are available to help. Parents will also be able to bake at home if they wish, an ingredient list must be supplied with every item. Items baked at home must be delivered to the school on Friday, 17 November 2023

Volunteers, Market Stalls and Sponsors
Please contact us if you are able to help prior to the fete, or on the day. We will need lots of people on the Friday to help set up, and volunteers on the day to run stalls, sell tickets etc.
Donations are currently being sourced for the Cent Auction. If you have a business and would like to donate, please email us. It is a great advertising opportunity for the thousands of Hillcrest families and wider community that attend the fete.
We have very limited market stall sites available. Stalls are $50 for a Hillcrest family and are available to sell your goods or services on the day.

Lastly, without our major sponsors, our fete would not be so Funtastic! A big thank you to Ilona Barry Harcourts Coastal, Clear Smiles Orthodontics, Elk Electrical, BMW Australia, Miss Di’s Tutor House, Hennessy Building Projects, Rosa & Mary Bridal shop, Reedy Creek Medical Centre, Sequel Books, Watsons Chemist at Reedy Creek, Varsity Lakes Mechanical, Outback Steakhouse and Tan Society. We are still looking for additional sponsors so please contact us via email if you, or someone you know, may be interested.

COLIN BUCHANAN CHRISTMAS PARTY
Hillcrest Christian College & Sure Thing Agency Present
Colin Buchanan’s Big Christmas Party!

This Christmas, get ready for a spectacular return of Australia’s #1 kids Christian artist, Colin Buchanan, live on stage! It’s Colin Buchanan’s Big Christmas Party, and it’s back with a bang! As an extra special Christmas treat, Colin will be joined by his puppet pal, Nudge!

Join us for all the fun and mayhem, as Colin takes you “dashing through the bush in a rusty Holden ute” at a venue near you. Together, let’s celebrate the true meaning of Christmas with Jesus, the King, and get ready for “No Bells!” – spreading Christmas cheer as we share the joy of Colin Buchanan’s Big Christmas Party National Tour with all of Australia.

Expect a show for the whole family, filled with dancing, excitement, laughter – and some delightful surprises – as we sing along to Colin’s timeless kids’ Christian songs.

With limited tickets available, don’t wait – gather your friends and secure your seats for Colin Buchanan’s Big Christmas Party now!

Saturday 18 November 2023 – Join the fun of Fete after the Christmas Party!

Doors 12:00pm
Show Starts 12:30pm

BOOK TICKETS HERE

Colin Buchanan Christmas Party

Hillcrest Christian College and Sure Thing Agency Present
Colin Buchanan’s Big Christmas Party!

Expect a show for the whole family, filled with dancing, excitement, laughter – and some delightful surprises – as we sing along to Colin’s timeless kids’ Christian songs.

With limited tickets available, don’t wait – gather your friends and secure your seats for Colin Buchanan’s Big Christmas Party now!

Saturday 18 November 2023 – Join the fun of Fete after the Christmas Party!

Doors 12:00pm
Show Starts 12:30pm

BOOK TICKETS HERE

Other News

Key Dates

Key dates/events are current at time of publishing and may be subject to change. Please refer to the most current communication from your Head of Community.

Date

Details

TERM 4, WEEK 7

Monday, 13 November, 4pm

VET Pathways Presentation

Wednesday, 15 November

Year 5 Surf Lesson Excursion

Wednesday, 15 November

IMAGINATOR Experience Year 7

Wednesday, 15 November

Year 7 Walk & Swim

Wednesday, 15 November

2024 Year 7 Induction Day

Thursday, 16 November

Year 12 Wet ‘n’ Wild Trip

Thursday, 16 November

MLC Co-Curricular Awards

Thursday, 16 November, 6pm

VLC Years P-11 Celebration Evening

Friday, 17 November

Year 12 Valedictory, Graduation and Guard of Honour

TERM 4, WEEK 8

Monday, 20 November

Years P-2 Experience Day

Monday, 20 November

Prep 2024 O-Day

Tuesday, 21 November

SLC Recognition Assembly

Tuesday, 21 November

MLC Domain Awards

Wednesday, 22 November

ELC Christmas Celebration

Wednesday, 22 November

Year 3/4 Disco

Thursday, 23 November

Years 7-9 Middle Years Ethics

Thursday, 23 November, 8.45am

Years P-2 Christmas Celebration

Thursday, 23 November, 10am

Years 3-4 Celebration and Awards

Friday, 24 November

Prep - Year 11 Last Day

Friday, 24 November

Years 9-11 Beach Day

View more dates on the College Calendar

VIEW COLLEGE WEBSITE

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