In this Issue
From the Principal
I hope you have had a positive start to the academic year. Amongst our more than 900 students we welcomed to school this year are 142 new students, each bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to our vibrant campus. If you are one of these new families, my special welcome to you. Overall, the year has begun smoothly, with students settling into routines, classrooms abuzz with learning, and a sense of anticipation for all that lies ahead.
Partnerships Evening – a great success!
There have been many events to start our school year that you will see highlighted in this newsletter. One of the most significant was our inaugural Partnerships Evening on Wednesday 11 February - a gathering designed to strengthen the vital connection between school and home. This event provided families with an opportunity to meet their child’s teachers for 2026, share aspirations, and lay the groundwork for a collaborative approach to student success. The conversations held and relationships formed underscore the importance of working together to support every learner’s journey.
Our first full College Assembly, held in the school gymnasium, was marked by the return of many of our 2025 VCE High Achievers, whose dedication and accomplishments inspire us all. Their stories remind us that perseverance and support yield remarkable results. The assembly also saw the induction of our 2026 student leaders from all sub-schools - a group committed to service, excellence, and fostering a positive culture within the college. We are proud to stand alongside these leaders as they begin their important roles.
As we move forward, I encourage all families, students, and staff to continue nurturing the spirit of partnership and community that defines our school. Together as one, we create a supportive environment where every student can thrive, achieve, and grow.
In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength
Tony Corr
Principal
College News
Newsletter, Socials and Website
Welcome to the first newsletter for 2026! We will be sharing all the news on events and student achievements throughout the year. There will be three newsletters per term, and the link will be sent to all parents, guardians and students via SEQTA. So keep an eye out!
Our socials are busy too, with our Facebook and Instagram pages gaining followers every week. Be sure to follow us!
Our website has information about Newhaven College that you might be looking for, so please check it out.
We look forward to keeping you informed throughout 2026!
Steph Thornborrow & Lucy Couper
Marketing and Communications
Middle and Senior School Home Group Teachers and House Mentors
Bell Times changes for 2026
The 2026 bell times have been made to provide the optimum learning environment for all of our students. The day will be broken into five 60 minute periods, with Home Room providing 10 minutes at the start of the day.
The Junior School and the Middle and Senior School bell times now differ, making the school day more conducive to the needs of our younger students.
For Middle and Senior School, there is a ‘Purple Day’ three times a fortnight, where we incorporate two 90 minute periods into the day. This is for the benefit of those subject areas that value longer learning periods.
School Photos - Next Week!
Newhaven College's official School Photographs will take place next week - Wednesday 18 February, with a reserve day on Friday 20 February for absent and Prep students.
Payment envelopes have been sent home with all students. Be sure to complete and return to class or home group teachers.
All students are expected to wear full summer uniform and have their shoes polished. Long hair is to be tied up and off the face, minimal make-up and jewellery.
And practice that winning smile!
Turning Left Only at Peak Times
We thank the members of our community who are following the Turn Left Only signs during peak times in the morning and afternoon. Can we please remind everyone to follow the timings to ensure everyone, including buses, are able to arrive/ leave in a timely manner.
Morning: 8.45am - 9.00am
Afternoon: 3.20pm - 3.40pm
For safety reasons, please turn around at the Back Beach Rd roundabout, as U turns along Phillip Island Rd are not safe.
Drop & Go Zone
Please remember that cars should not be left unattended in the Drop & Go / Kiss & Go Zone. If you need to walk your child into school or come to the main reception, please park in the carpark. The zone needs to be kept clear all day to avoid inconveniencing others.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Open Morning and Alumni Reunion - Saturday 14 March
Open Morning
Our upcoming Open Morning will be bigger than ever, with many of our student leaders guiding visitors around our campus. Students are encouraged to sign up to help out on the day. The Open Morning will run from 9am-12pm this year and we anticipate lots of families taking the opportunity to see our stunning campus.
Alumni Reunion
Do you know any Newhaven students who graduated in 1986, 1996, 2006 and 2016? We warmly invite all students from those graduating years (whether they graduated or not) to attend their Alumni Reunion from 10am-12pm on Saturday 14 March. The event will start with a complimentary morning tea, followed by a guided tour around campus.
More information about these important dates on the College calendar will be shared via SEQTA and online.
First All-School Assembly
At our first all-school assembly for 2026, we welcomed and congratulated our 2026 Student Leadership for our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools. Our Year 12 cohort promises to provide dedicated and caring mentorship for the whole school.
During the assembly, we also welcomed back many of our 2025 high achievers. The College Proxime Accessit, Isaac Savona, spoke about his experience of Year 12, where he acknowledged that working hard is essential, but it is also important to allow time for leisure throughout the year. The 2025 Dux of School, Lara Smyth is currently in Hong Kong on a special STEM scholarship, however Mrs Milkins-Hendry read her speech on her behalf. Lara's words of wisdom for students were not to focus on comparing yourself to others, but to focus on your own effort, your mistakes and your decisions; to be proud of all of your achievements.
College band Zenith Paradox were electric with a popular Arctic Monkeys' song and the College Choirs lead the school in the national anthem and school song.
Newhaven College 2026 Charity
The Year 12 Leadership Team has chosen Carrie’s Beanies for Brain Cancer as the 2026 College Charity. This organisation is committed to supporting vital brain cancer research, improving survival rates, and creating a brighter future for patients and their families.
To support this cause, there will be lots of fun activities and fundraising events throughout the year. We strongly encourage everyone to get involved and pitch in where they can. Details of our first fundraiser will be announced very soon, so keep an eye out!
We will share our donation link to our fundraiser soon.
We look forward to a fantastic year!
Tilly Stecher, Harry Arceo, Issy Mahon and Kadek Humphris
Newhaven College Captains 2026
Junior School Refurbishment
Additional Classrooms
We are pleased to be working with our architects, Baldasso Cortese, and local building contractor, TS Constructions on the refurbishment of our Junior School, and the installation of two new classrooms and an amenities block. Over the Summer holidays, carpets have been replaced in all classrooms with new Active panels installed in the remaining Junior School classrooms. Over the past 2 years, all smart boards have now been replaced with brand new active panels.
We are excited to advise that the refurbishment works are
progressing as planned and on-time with a larger presence of contractors
on-site from this week, to commence the refurbishment works of the assembly
hall area. The new classrooms and amenities block are scheduled to be
constructed and installed over the upcoming Easter holidays.
Adventure Playground
We are currently working with local landscape architect, Orchard Design, and local landscaping contractor, Earth Design Landscapes, on our new Junior School playground. The works are progressing well, with a number of areas including the yarning circle, tunnel, Gunyah Shelter and decking now complete. Upcoming works over the next three weeks include the installation of the swing, play tower, spidergon and rope bridge, which are due to be completed by the end of the month.
We look forward to opening the playground before the end of term 1.
Should you have any queries or feedback, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Alan Nolan
Director of Business
Camps, Sports, Excursions Fund (CSEF) Application Form
A communication has now been sent out via SEQTA, which will be relevant for all families who hold a current eligible concession card, containing the 2026 CSEF Application form.
For information about eligibility - please visit the website
The Department of Education (department) administers the CSEF to help eligible families with the costs of camps, sporting activities, excursions and incursions.
Upon successful applications, payments are made directly to an eligible student’s school.
Application Forms must be returned via email by Monday 1 June to:- admissions@newhavencol.vic.edu.au. Alternatively, forms are available and can be returned to Main Reception.
Bec Anderson
Admissions Officer
Homework Club and Maths Support
Homework Club and Maths Support are available for students in Years 7 – 12 every Wednesday from 3.30 – 4.50pm.
There is a Late Bus Timetable that leaves promptly at 5pm which travels from the College to Inverloch with stops at Cape Woolamai, San Remo, Anderson, Wonthaggi and Inverloch.
Homework Club is supervised by English teachers, whilst Maths Support has Maths teachers in attendance. Maths Support is held in Senior School SS1 and SS2, with Homework Club being held in the Senior School Student Support area and SS3 and SS4.
Wednesday Afternoon Guidelines
- Students must bring enough work for the entire session.
- No phones allowed.
- Students completing Maths homework must sit in SS1/2.
- Group work is encouraged however, there must be a clear goal and the groups must be respectful of the other students’ studying.
- Normal classroom behaviours apply.
- A roll will be taken to monitor attendance and teachers will also note the type of work being undertaken by students who are attending.
- Homework Club is not a place to view videos or films; that can be done at home. Edrolo videos are the exception.
- Calculators should be charged.
- We are building a culture of study and support for our students and will be ensuring Homework Club is used as a dedicated space for academic focus.
Mrs Sharon Paterson and Mrs Melinda Kelly
Homework Club and Maths Support Coordinators
Spoonbill Cafe
Last Friday, Spoonbill Cafe, located in the College Pavilion, welcomed around 100 staff, parents and friends with a hot coffee. Everyone was excited to sample Lachie Gale's own delicious Sun House Coffee Roasters brand. On opening day, Lachie was supported by Emma, Charlotte, Katrina and Andre.
From this Friday, Spoonbill Cafe will be offering a discount for squeaky clean keep cups and 25c from each purchase will be donated to the Year 12 charity, Carrie's Beanies for Brain Cancer. Please be sure to drop your children off to school before visiting the cafe.
Open every Friday from 8am-10am. Come along!
Parents Welcome Drinks
On the first Friday of term, over 100 new and existing parents and guardians attended our annual Parents’ Welcome Drinks in the Performing Arts Wing.
The atmosphere was uplifted by the musical talents of Director of Music, Matthew Goss, and Guitar Teacher, Daniel Seale. The mood was fun and relaxed, with our fantastic Parents and Friends Association (PFA) members helping out, making the night run smoothly.
If you’d like to get involved with the PFA, please contact Angel at newhaven.pfa@gmail.com
Thank you to everyone who came along and made it such a special evening.
Parents and Friends Association (PFA) Report
We hope everyone has had a smooth and positive start to the school year and that families are settling back into the routines of school life! The PFA is looking forward to another great year of bringing our community together and supporting the school through a range of events and activities.
Get Involved: PFA meeting and WhatsApp group
Our first meeting of the year will be held at 2pm on Friday 6 March 2026 in the school boardroom and we warmly invite all parents and carers to attend. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the purpose of the PFA, hear about our proposed events for the year (including some exciting new additions), and find out how you can get involved by either joining the committee or helping organise and run a specific event. The PFA is a small team of dedicated individuals and we truly need extra hands to make these events happen, so we would love to see you there!
We also encourage parents and carers to join our PFA volunteer WhatsApp group to receive notifications on volunteer opportunities at one of our events. Sign up via the QR code or feel free to email us your mobile number so that we may add you to our group. Your help means that we can run more successful events!
PFA Outdoor Movie Night
One new event for this year is the Outdoor Movie Night! Pencil in a fun night of entertainment with family and friends at 6pm on Friday 20 March 2026. More information about the night, how to book and volunteer opportunities will be shared soon.
Questions
If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please contact us at newhaven.pfa@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you!
Angel Chambers
President | Parents and Friends Association
Junior School
Welcome to the 2026 school year. It has been a wonderful start, filled with energy, optimism and a strong sense of connection across our Junior School community.
Throughout 2026, our Junior School will reinforce the message: “Give Everything a Go”. It reflects our shared belief that learning grows from effort, curiosity and the confidence to try, even when something feels challenging. We want our students to develop a strong propensity to engage, persevere and believe in themselves, knowing they are supported every step of the way. At Newhaven College, we are fortunate to offer a unique environment filled with diverse opportunities that fully support this aspiration.
A warm welcome to our new students and families, especially our Prep families and our new Year 3 students, as we proudly open our third Year 3 classroom. It has been wonderful to see how confidently and happily students have settled into their routines, friendships and learning.
Our Prep students have made a joyful start to school, supported by the strong transition program last year. Familiar faces and routines helped them feel connected and excited for this special beginning, which we were pleased to celebrate with Prep families through a shared morning tea on their first day.
A Strong Start to Learning
Our teachers have established clear and supportive classroom expectations to create calm, respectful learning environments where every child feels safe and ready to learn. Consistent routines and high expectations provide structure and predictability, helping students understand what is expected and allowing learning time to be used effectively. By setting these foundations early, we build a culture of respect and responsibility that supports students to thrive both academically and socially.
Whole School & Junior School Assemblies
At last week’s Whole School Assembly, our Year 4 leaders were presented with their leadership badges and officially welcomed into their roles. They have begun the year with confidence and maturity and are already wonderful role models for our younger students.
Next week marks our first Junior School Assembly in The Collect, led by the entire Year 4 cohort. Each student will make a leadership pledge, committing to ways they will support, encourage and inspire others across the Junior School. This is a powerful example of what it means to give everything a go and leading with courage, responsibility and care.
Partnership Afternoon and Information Sessions
Our Partnership Afternoon, held this week was a great success. Families had the opportunity to meet teachers, learn about classroom programs and gain insight into how best to support learning at home. Year-level presentations were followed by a relaxed BBQ, reinforcing the importance of strong partnerships between home and school as we begin our 2026 learning journey together.
Home Learning: Building Reading & Number Fluency
Regular home practice in reading and number fluency is key to building strong foundational skills. At Newhaven College, homework directly supports what students learn in class through clear, achievable tasks designed to build confidence and independence.
Reading logs, signed by a parent each day, are part of our expectations, with teachers providing daily recognition. Recommended home learning times are:
- Prep–Year 2: 15 minutes
- Years 3–4: 20 minutes
Last year, 100% of Prep students consistently completed their home learning. In 2026, we aim for 90–100% of Junior School students to earn a Home Learning Certificate each term by showing commitment and consistency.
Continuous Reporting
This Friday, Junior School families will receive our first continuous reporting snapshot for the year, sharing how students have settled into routines, learning and friendships. Continuous reporting provides timely, meaningful feedback across all subject areas and supports rich conversations during Parent-Teacher Interviews, ensuring families are well informed well before semester reports are issued.
Attendance Matters
Regular attendance is essential for learning and wellbeing. Missing just 10% of school time equates to approximately four weeks of learning lost each year. Being at school every day supports confidence, connection and continuity in learning. Attendance is monitored closely, and any concerns will be discussed with families to ensure every child is supported.
Adventure Playground, Building Works & Exciting Developments
Please read the update report from Alan Nolan, Director of Business, in the College News section of this newsletter for an update on our new Adventure Playground, new classrooms and amenities blocks, and the refurbishment of the Junior School assembly area.
School Photographs
Photo forms have been distributed to Junior School families this week and should be returned to classroom teachers in preparation for Week 4 school photographs.
Year 1–4 photographs: Wednesday 18 February
Prep photographs: Friday 20 February (due to Wednesday testing)
Class Representatives
To help strengthen connections within our community, we are seeking parent class representatives to organise at least one gathering per term. If you are interested, please email Dearne Young at Dearne.Young@newhavencol.vic.edu.au by Friday 13 February.
Thank you for the warm and positive way you have partnered with us to begin the year. We look forward to a year filled with learning, growth and connection, and to supporting our students as they give everything a go in 2026.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Professional Learning – Number Fluency
While students were preparing to start the year, our Junior School, Mathematics and Learning Support teachers took part in a professional learning day focused on number fluency, led by mathematics education expert Dr Ange Rogers.
The session strengthened teachers’ approaches to developing students’ confidence, accuracy and fluency with essential number skills. Dr Rogers shared practical, research-based strategies to enhance our Numeracy Instructional Model, leaving staff feeling confident and well-equipped to support strong learning outcomes for all students.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Preps 2026
Our new Preps have settled in nicely to their classes and the school as a whole. Mrs Lynch and Mrs Carlson have ensured our Preps transition into school life has been smooth and they're settling in nicely.
The Preps' first day was particularly exciting, although they all already knew their classrooms and teachers after the transition days in 2025. After drop off, parents and carers were welcomed by Mr Corr and Mrs Huther with a cup of tea and a biscuit.
Middle School
It has been a positive and calm start to the year in Middle School. On the first day, I spoke with students about the power of choice - reminding them that not everything will go our way, but how we respond, reset and bounce back truly matters.
Much like the Winter Olympics motto, “It’s Your Vibe,” the vibe across Middle School has been positive, calm, happy and inclusive. Our Year 5 students have settled in beautifully, impressing staff with their listening, manners and growing independence. Year 6 students are embracing their extended lunchtime, making the most of the oval, Gaga Ball and the tree-line spaces. Year 7 students have shown responsibility by asking questions when unsure, forming new friendships and actively including others. Meanwhile, our Year 8 students have stepped up with maturity and strong engagement in their learning.
It is still early days, but I want to commend the entire Middle School community for making positive choices. Thank you also to our staff and parents for your ongoing support as we continue to strengthen the partnership between home and school.
Thank you to all the families who attended our Middle School Partnerships Evening. It was wonderful to see you in person as we continue to strengthen the important connection between home and school. If you were unable to attend, please feel free to reach out to your child’s Home Group teacher, who will be happy to support you.
Calendar Dates
Wednesday 18 February - School Photos, MS Leaders Day – St. Paul’s Traralgon
Friday 20 February - School Photos
Saturday 28 February - Year 7 2027 Scholarship Testing 10am-2pm
Tuesday 3 March - Year 5-12 House Surfing Smith’s Beach
Monday 9 March - Labour Day Public Holiday
Saturday 14 March - Open Morning
Ralph Arceo
Head of Middle School
Introducing our Middle School Captains for 2026
My name is Ivy Addison, and I am Middle School Captain this year. I’m excited to support students as they work toward their goals and to help create an environment where lifelong friendships and meaningful memories can grow throughout our Middle School years.
My name is Annabelle Fallu, I am Middle School Captain for 2026. I am looking forward to helping as many people as I can with their confidence and enthusiasm towards school this year.
My name is Soul van Stokrom, I am Bass House Captain this year. I am looking forward to encouraging everyone to participate in House events and for everyone to have a great time in Bass House.
My name is Stevie Kent-Ford. I am a Bass House Leader. I’m excited to strengthen my relationships with my leadership peers.
My name is Ruby Pedersen, and I am a Clarke House Leader this year. I am looking forward to encouraging and helping all students throughout the year.
My name is Thomas Simon. I am Clarke House Captain. I love playing sports, I also have two dogs that I love to bits. I wish we have a fantastic year in Clarke House!
My name is Frankie Leary, and I'm one of the McHaffie House leaders for this year! I'm really looking forward to watching and participating alongside, my fellow McHaffie teammates in all House activities in 2026!
My name is Bella Oudshoorn, and I am McHaffie House Captain for 2026. I am looking forward to getting to know everyone better and helping anyone whenever they need.
My name is Lavenia Hewitt, and I am Sambell Captain in Middle School this year. I am looking forward to leading by example and showing commitment, passion, and positivity at every House event.
My name is Cruz James, and I am one of the Middle School Sambell House Captain for 2026. I am looking forward to supporting students to achieve their own goals and collaborating with teachers to make sure Middle School stays a fun, positive, and inclusive environment for everyone.
My name is Alice Martindale, and I am Middle School Sports Captain this year. I am looking forward to helping at all the sports events!
My name is Flynn Doig, and I am one of the Sports Captain for 2026. I would love to contribute by helping people at sports events.
My name is Alice Bell, and I am a Wellbeing Captain. This year I hope to bring smiles to faces, and loud laughs across Middle School.
The start of the year was impressively calm and orderly. I’m Steven Chen and as Wellbeing Captain this year, I hope to see the same positive energy continue throughout the year.
My name is Michael Christofi, and I am the Middle School Music Captain for 2026. I am Invested in getting more people into music this year and displaying how good an instrument can be!
My name is Sophia Hardy, and I am the Middle School Drama Captain this year. I can't wait to share my love of drama with everyone.
My name is Sam Bowtell, and I am the Sustainability Captain for Middle School this year. I look forward to leading initiatives that reduce waste, encourage responsible habits, and strengthen our school’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
My name is Molly Mackenzie, and I am the Sustainability Captain. This year I am excited to make a change and inspire young minds.
Year 7 Transition Day
Our Year 7 students have started the year with a huge bonding session - Transition Day! It was all about making friends, getting to know teachers and House mentors, and feeling confident in their new environment.
From team-building games at the beach to bowling, laser strike, pool and table tennis at Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling & Entertainment Centre, there was plenty of fun and laughter all day long.
Thank you to all the teachers and mentors who assisted on the day.
Senior School
SEISA Leadership Retreat
The SEISA Leadership Camp, held at Newhaven College on 6 and 7 February, proved to be an inspiring highlight on the school calendar, bringing together emerging leaders from across the region for a transformative overnight experience. Designed to ignite imagination and build vital leadership skills, the camp equipped Year 12 student leaders with the tools and confidence to lead both within their schools and beyond.
Newhaven College had the privilege of hosting students from Beaconhills College Pakenham, Beaconhills College Berwick, St. Paul’s College, and Gippsland Grammar. The gathering created a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, as students from different backgrounds and perspectives came together with a shared purpose: to grow as leaders and learn from one another.
Throughout the camp, the Year 12 leaders engaged in a variety of activities thoughtfully designed to encourage collaboration, creativity, and self-discovery. Team-building exercises challenged students to communicate openly, think on their feet, and support one another in problem-solving scenarios. Leadership workshops focused on inspiring imagination, fostering resilience, and exploring innovative approaches to common challenges faced by student leaders. Group discussions and interactive sessions allowed everyone to share their experiences and insights, broadening their understanding of what effective leadership looks like in action.
A central theme of the camp was personal growth. Students participated in reflection activities that offered valuable insights into their own personalities and unique leadership styles. By understanding their strengths and areas for development, participants gained a deeper appreciation for diversity in leadership approaches. Many discovered new facets of themselves, while also learning to recognize and celebrate the talents of their peers.
One of the highlights of the weekend was a presentation from a local entrepreneur and hero, Mr Mat Bowtell, founder and CEO of Free 3D Hands. His inspiring story of building a company from the ground up and developing 3D printed assistive devices for disabled people all around the world, a development he open-sourced, is an inspiration to so many. Our student leaders were inspired by his story and the thousands of lives that his innovations have improved.
The overnight stay at the Year 9 Campus was a memorable experience that added a sense of adventure and camaraderie. Sharing meals, stories, and laughter, students built lasting connections that extended well beyond the structured activities. The evening provided a relaxed setting for further discussion and friendship-building, reinforcing the sense of community that underpins great leadership.
As the camp concluded, the impact was evident in the energy and enthusiasm displayed by the participants. The SEISA Leadership Camp not only strengthened individual leadership skills but also fostered a collaborative spirit among future leaders from across SE Gippsland. We look forward to seeing the positive ripple effects of this camp in our schools and communities, and to hosting more opportunities for leadership development in the future.
Brett Torstonson
Head of Senior School
Uniform and Presentation
At the beginning of each new school year, we ask for the support of our parents in ensuring that all students are properly attired, and that their hair is neat and tidy, and in keeping with the guidelines; this includes being clean shaven for all boys. Information regarding the uniform is available on the school website.
Students with hair that falls below the collar must have it tied back (irrespective of gender). All Senior School students are expected to wear their blazer to formal school events such as Senior School and Whole School Assemblies. A reminder that dress and skirt length should be knee height as per our school uniform policy.
With the exception of SEISA competitors, PE uniform is not to be worn to school. It is important that the correct sports uniform is worn during House events or when students are representing the College. Students must wear their House polo shirt during House events. On days when Y9-Y12 students have practical PE lessons, sport or SM, they are allowed to wear their PE uniform, including white socks for that lesson only.
Finally, it is essential that all items of clothing, bags, lunch containers, drink bottles etc. are clearly named.
Brett Torstonson
Head of Senior School
VCE Vocational Major Introduced at Newhaven
At Newhaven College, honouring and enriching individual pathways is at the heart of what we do. We recognise that every child’s strengths, interests and future goals are different and one size does not fit all. Our goal is to help every student be the best they can be, whether their journey leads to university, TAFE or straight to the workforce.
Our newly introduced VCE Vocational Major (VM) pathway gives families an additional senior school option that focuses on practical learning, real-world skills and work readiness. Designed for students who thrive through applied learning, the VCE VM supports confident pathways into further training, apprenticeships or employment, while ensuring every student is supported to reach their full potential.
Karen Milkins-Hendry
Director of Learning
Year 12 Forum Day
For their first day back at school, our Year 12s took part in Forum Day - a special day designed to set them up for a successful year ahead. Alongside sessions on study techniques and self-care, students also enjoyed some well-earned fun. They were treated to a delicious lunch in the Pavilion, served by their teachers and House mentors, received their special rugby tops, and the girls even marked the occasion by wearing pigtails, just like they did back in Prep.
Japan Tour 2026 – Expression of Interest
Are you a Year 10 or 11 student ready for an unforgettable adventure? We are thrilled to propose the Japan Tour 2026, tentatively scheduled from Friday 11 September, to Saturday, 26 September (Term 3, Week 9 to Break Week 1).
This two-week immersive experience will take you on a journey to explore Japan’s rich culture, history, and traditions. Highlights include:
Visit our sister school, including a homestay experience with a sister school family: Connect with Japanese students, experience their school life and build lifelong memories through cultural exchange.
Cultural immersion: Discover local traditions, visit iconic landmarks and deepen your understanding of Japan’s unique culture.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award: Use
this exchange program toward obtaining the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for the
Residential Project and/or Adventurous Journey components.
To learn more, join us at the Information Evening on Tuesday, 17 February, at 7:00 pm in SS1.
Interested? Don’t miss this amazing opportunity! Send your name to Mrs Horiguchi to express your interest.
Ms Horiguchi
Japanese Exchange Program Coordinator
Outdoor Ed Camp
Our camp at the Mornington Peninsula Greens Bush was a really good experience and something we enjoyed a lot. On Thursday, we jumped on the bus and headed off on our journey. We walked to our campsite, dropped off our bags, and did a short hike where we met an Indigenous lady who taught us about native herbs and plants and how they were used as medicine, which was interesting to learn about.
We hiked 14km on our first day. The walking was challenging but still enjoyable. On Friday, we travelled to Sorrento, which was the highlight of the camp. We went snorkeling and saw dolphins swimming nearby, which was an amazing experience. After that, we snorkeled with seals, and seeing them so close was exciting and unforgettable.
Overall, the camp was a great experience that helped us try new things and enjoy the outdoors.
Mackenzie Marr and Savannah Bennett
Year 10
Careers
Please be sure to check out this month's Career Newsletter.
There are many opportunities for higher education information sessions and upcoming Open Day information.
Anthea Bennett
Head of Careers
Scholarships
Year 7 Academic Scholarships 2027
Scholarship and entrance tests are comprised of Ability tests and Achievement tests.
The Edutest exam is taking place on Saturday, 28 February 2026. Registrations Open on Friday, 30 January and close on Monday, 23 February. No late applications can be accepted.
The cost of Edutest scholarship testing in 2026 will be $90+GST per student.
Bursary Scholarships
This Scholarship provides an opportunity for students wishing to enrol at Newhaven College in 2027.
Thanks to the generosity of members of the school community, Newhaven College has a limited number of bursary places for students entering Newhaven College in 2027. If you, a family member or someone you know would like to join us in 2027, but may not have the means to do so, this opportunity may be for you.
Expressions of Interest for these bursaries are open.
For enquiries or to book in for the next Newhaven College tour, please contact our Admissions Team on 5956 7505 or admissions@newhavencol.vic.edu.au
Visual & Performing Arts
Senior School Production
Midnight: The Cinderella Musical
Inspired by the Cinderella story, this enchanting tale features Ella, a feisty, funny and passionate young heroine who doesn’t want or need a so-called Prince Charming. Enchanted by this alluring stranger, the prince finds himself in uncharted territory and quickly learns that ‘Ella’ is like no other.
The cast has started rehearsals in earnest, staying after school 3 nights a week to learn the songs and dance moves. This is going to be yet another stunning show.
The show dates are:
Friday 1 May, 7.30pm
Saturday 2 May, 1.30pm
Saturday 2 May, 7.30pm
Sunday 3 May, 1.30pm
Tickets available soon
Melbourne Youth Orchestras Summer School
Congratulations to our String musicians, Fletcher, Mimi, Thomas and Yuri, and flautist, Bonnie, for participating in the Melbourne Youth Orchestras Summer School at The University of Melbourne over the summer break.
The students rehearsed all week towards a superb series of concerts at the Melbourne Recital Centre, and Fletcher and Thomas even compèred for the evening. They were joined by a very familiar orchestral conductor, Miss Rebecca Scully, Head of Strings, and superstar parent volunteer, Karina!
Cecily and Grace - a bright future in the Arts
Two of our very talented 2025 Year 12 students have been accepted into highly competitive performing arts courses commencing in 2026. Cecily de Gooyer has been selected into the exclusive VCA (Victorian College of the Arts) Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting) Course. Cecily was one of just 20 students selected from 2000 applications. Grace Farmer has been accepted into the elite WAAPA (Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts) Musical Theatre Course. Grace was one of just 18 students selected from over 800 applications. Both courses are the best in Australia and are highly competitive, accepting a very small number of candidates. Both courses require a rigorous entry process involving auditions and workshops. Even less common is that both girls have been accepted directly out of school. This is a credit to their talent and dedication over many years. Cecily and Grace were coached and nurtured throughout their schooling by the talented and dedicated music and theatre teachers at Newhaven College.
Cecily has also been selected to present her interpretation of the monologue Once - GIRL in Top Class Theatre Studies 2026 at Melbourne Recital Centre. Top Class is an annual concert series presented by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) showcasing outstanding performances by VCE and VCE VET students from schools across the state. This year, 50 top performing students were invited to audition for Top Class Theatre Studies, and only 15 students were selected to perform. Selected performers exemplify the skill and creativity that can be achieved within the VCE curriculum. Top Class Theatre Studies takes place at Melbourne Recital Centre – 31 Sturt St, Southbank – on Wednesday 25 March at 10:00 am. Tickets are now available via the Melbourne Recital Centre.
Cecily was also selected by Top Acts for her music performances also. No wonder she has been accepted into the prestigious VCA!
Congratulations to both Cecily and Grace.
Sport
House Swimming Carnival Years 5-12
The College held the first major House Carnival this week, with the Years 5-12 House Swimming Carnival held on a very warm and sunny day at Korumburra Pool. The competition was fierce, but ultimately it was Clarke House who emerged victorious on the day for the 7th consecutive year.
House Placements are as follows.
1st Clarke – 1,438 Points
2nd Sambell – 1,132 Points
3rd McHaffie – 1,060 Points
4th Bass – 957 Points
Thank you to all the Staff for planning this event and students’ participation, all of which made the Swimming Carnival possible on this warm and very competitive day.
Noah Martin-Endress
AFL SportsReady Trainee
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