New playground Behind Junior School 

In 2026 Newhaven College will be proud to unveil our new adventure playground behind the Junior School. The concepts behind the spaces being constructed are based on the Phillip Island landscape, such as the Pinnacles, Rhyll Inlet, Cat Bay, San Remo Bridge and Cape Woolamai Surf Beach, just to name a few.

This is a very exciting project, and it will provide hours of interactive play for our students well into the future.

Check out the concept drawings by the designer Karl Russo and crew from Orchard Design on our website.

Orientation Day 

On Wednesday 3 December, each Year level from Prep to Year 4 moved into their 2026 classrooms. Students had the opportunity to meet their new teachers and classmates, and our Orientation program ran seamlessly.

With a new Year 3 class and 21 new students joining our school next year, along with 44 new Preps, students felt welcomed and excited for the year ahead. Our current Year 4 students spent the day in Middle School, participating in sessions with their 2026 Year 5 teachers and Middle School staff.

Junior School Leaders in 2026 

I am proud to announce our Year 4 Captains for 2026. Congratulations to all of our Year 3 students who applied for a leadership position. Your applications and interviews were impressive.

We look forward to seeing our Year 4 students grow into their leadership roles as they serve as role models and embrace the exciting opportunities ahead.

2026 Junior School Captains

• Junior School Captains: Samuel Phillips, Milla Kirkhope, James Andrianopoulos, Cecilia Federici
• Sambell House Captains: Sophie Clark, Nathaniel Regnier
• McHaffie House Captains: Cooper Mol, Mason O’Connor
• Bass House Captains: Harley Filsell, Julian Ryan
• Clarke House Captains: Nate O’Connor, Willa Boyce
• Performing Arts Captains: Hazel Werner, Casey Felstead
• Wellbeing Captains: Macie Oudshoorn, Benji Ellery

Cath Huther

Head of Junior School

Year 4 Graduation Assembly 

Our Year 4 Graduation Assembly was held yesterday and celebrated our special Year 4 cohort. Students shared words of wisdom and offered wonderful advice to our Junior School students, which was lovely to hear.

Thank you, Year 4, for being such a happy, kind, and thoughtful group of students. Each of you will always remain a valued and cherished part of our Junior School community. As you move into Middle School, we look forward to continuing to watch you grow, develop, and thrive as you embrace new challenges.

Cath Huther

Head of Junior School

Reindeer fun

This week, some of our Year 1 students were invited into the Trade Centre to create some lovely reindeer. They were later painted and bedazzled and taken home for Christmas.

Thank you to Mr Fourie and Mr Kellett for helping out!

Merit Awards

Congratulations to the students in the following photo who were presented with their Merit Awards and recognised at Junior School Assembly.

Middle School Final Assembly

During the Middle School final assembly for the year, the current Year 8s were farewelled. The Year 8s were supported by their families and peers, as their journey from Prep to Year 8 was celebrated. They were then given a guard of honour - human tunnel style- as they symbolically headed up toward Year 9, where their next adventure will begin.

The Importance of Orientation Day  

Orientation Day is a key moment in the school year, giving students a chance to step into their next chapter with confidence. While short in time, it plays a big role in helping students feel connected and reassured. We hope all students especially those who are new to our school had a positive experience, enjoyed a taste of Middle School life, and are feeling more confident after finding out their class, Home Group, meeting some of their teachers, and getting to know most of their classmates. These early connections and moments of familiarisation make a world of difference as students prepare for the transition ahead.

Ralph Arceo

Head of Middle School

Middle School Production - The Real Alice in Wonderland

When I was set the challenge of building on from the successes of Middle School Drama Club and provide an opportunity for interested MS students to showcase their dramatic talents on a slightly bigger scale, I was excited. We knew there was an interest and I was overjoyed (and slightly overwhelmed) when more than 60 students came to the first information session to be part of 'The Real Story of Alice in Wonderland'. Eventually 42 of these eager thespians could clear a path in their busy schedule and make Wednesday afternoon rehearsals a priority.

The dedication and enthusiasm I witnessed during the audition process was a highlight of the year for me, but also incredibly challenging as I had to put the pieces of the puzzle together and cast the show. It was so difficult because they are all so FABULOUS!

Fast forward many months and here we are, ready to entertain you with a twist on a classic tale. You may think you know all there is to know about the young girl who finds herself down a rabbit hole and on a 'mad' adventure, but do you really?

A huge thank you to Mr Carel Fourie who patiently waited and waited and waited for me to share my vision for the set so he could help bring it to life. To Danae, Elyse, Sonia and Alyssa for spending every spare minute.

Congratulations to the cast on creating such a fun and engaging show for your peers and families.

Main Cast: Ella Herbert, Claire Feehan, Sophie Morse, Evie Hollings, Annabelle Schwartz, Sophia Hardy, Jim Hayne,s Zara Hill, Ruby Pederson, Ella Sibson, Ebony Welsh, Avia Scarlett, Archie Webb, Flynn Wright, Lavenia Hewitt, Ariana Ward, Ned Scott, Edith Jamieson, Amelia Ritterman, Matilda Cotton and Emma Simpson.

Ensemble: Isabel Zoanetti, Alexandra Zoanetti, Indigo Northover, Aggie Adrianopolous, Evie Felstead, Sophie Blake, Chelsea Chambers, Charli Pope, Amelia Russo,  Liliana Fenwick, Harper Perry, Mia Bowring, James Lamaro, Josie Rhodes, Siyansa Polwattage Perera, Tara Mitchell, Elisabeth Zalunardo, Grace Zalunardo and Carla Sorenson.

Melissa McMillan

Director

Year 5/6 Water Safety Program

Our Year 5/6 students recently completed a two day Water Safety Program in partnership with Cape Woolamai Surf Life Saving Club, gaining valuable skills and confidence. Day one at Foots Beach saw students sheltered from the easterly winds as they learned board paddling, rescue carries, beach signals and explored the rock pools. Day two at Smiths brought far wilder weather, with students hanging on through strong winds to learn about safe wave negotiation, surfing, tube rescues and rock pool jumping. Across both days, students developed their knowledge of basic first aid, recovery positions, ocean life and key water safety techniques. 

The program not only prepares students for a safe summer on our beaches but also provides an exciting introduction to our College Surfing Academy.

Ben Clark

Closing out the academic year and transitioning to more senior roles is a challenge for the best of us. For the adolescent brain in an exhausted body, this time of year can be especially challenging.

As the final weeks of the academic year draw to a close, the emotional landscape for 16 and 17-year-old school students becomes increasingly complex. For many, these months are a whirlwind of anticipation, relief, anxiety, and reflection. The end of the year signals both an achievement – having navigated the rigors of classes and assessments, and the beginning of a challenging new chapter. This is especially true for students making the significant leap from Year 11 to Year 12, an academic transition marked not only by changes in coursework but also by the psychological shift towards adulthood and future planning.

One of the most notable aspects of this period is a deep sense of exhaustion. After months of sustained effort, late-night study sessions, and balancing extracurricular activities, students often find themselves physically and mentally drained. The adolescent brain, still developing in important ways, is particularly susceptible to stress and fatigue, making the end-of-year period feel even more overwhelming. The final weeks are punctuated by examinations and the pressure to perform, which can amplify feelings of burnout and emotional volatility. Many students describe the sensation as being “on autopilot,” pushing through each day with the knowledge that a break is near, yet also feeling the weight of what is just around the corner.

Amidst this exhaustion, students are acutely aware of the looming transition to the next year level. For those in Year 11, the prospect of entering Year 12 is both thrilling and intimidating. Year 12 is often spoken of in hushed tones, regarded as the most demanding and consequential year of one’s secondary education. The academic expectations rise sharply, and the pressure to achieve strong results becomes more pronounced. Students recognize that, in many ways, Year 12 is a culminating experience: a gateway to university, further study, or the workforce. This knowledge brings a profound sense of responsibility – one that can feel both empowering and burdensome.

Central to this transition is the move from VCE Units 1 and 2 to Units 3 and 4. For many students, Units 1 and 2 serve as an introduction to the VCE system, offering a foundation in subject content and assessment styles. While these units are not without their challenges, they are generally seen as a time to experiment, make mistakes, and build confidence. However, the step up to Units 3 and 4 is widely regarded as a significant escalation. The content becomes more complex, the assessments more rigorous, and the stakes considerably higher. These units are directly tied to students’ final study scores and ATAR results, intensifying the sense of urgency and importance.

The increased difficulty of Units 3 and 4 is not just academic; it is also emotional and psychological. Many students report feeling unprepared for the sheer volume of material, the speed at which content is covered, and the need for greater independence in learning. The transition often requires a shift in mindset – from simply completing tasks to mastering material, from passive learning to active engagement. It is not uncommon for students to experience self-doubt during this time, questioning whether they are capable of meeting the new demands. This can be both a humbling and motivating experience, pushing students to develop stronger study habits, seek support from teachers and peers, and cultivate resilience.

Beyond academics, the transition from Year 11 to Year 12 – and into Units 3 and 4 – brings with it a host of social and emotional changes. Friendships may shift as students’ priorities change, and the increased workload can strain relationships both at school and at home. Many students feel the pressure to “get serious,” to put aside distractions and focus on their goals. This can lead to feelings of isolation or missing out, as the demands of school leave less time for relaxation and socialising. At the same time, there is a sense of camaraderie among Year 12 students, a shared recognition that they are “all in this together.” This collective experience can foster deep bonds and a sense of belonging, providing an important buffer against stress.

Importantly, the end of the academic year is also a time of personal growth and self-discovery. As students reflect on their achievements and setbacks, they gain valuable insights into their strengths, interests, and aspirations. For many, the challenges of transitioning to more senior roles in the school community prompt a re-evaluation of their identity and values. The process is not always comfortable, but it is transformative – preparing students for the demands of adulthood and life beyond secondary school.

In conclusion, the end of the academic year is a pivotal moment for 16 and 17-year-old students, especially those moving from Year 11 to Year 12 and into the demanding world of VCE Units 3 and 4. The journey is marked by exhaustion, anticipation, and a profound sense of transition. While the challenges are significant, they also offer opportunities for growth, resilience, and self-discovery. As students navigate this complex landscape, they lay the groundwork not only for academic success but also for the lifelong journey of learning and personal development.

Brett Torstonson

Head of Senior School

Year 9 Peak Pursuit

Our inaugural Peak Pursuit is officially in full swing! Day 1 saw our students pushing off into rain, sleet and even snow, but spirits stayed high and everyone made it safely into camp.

As the week has unfolded, the weather has turned kinder and our Year 9s have been bold, creative, resilient - and definitely a little cold!

From all reports, they are absolutely thriving. 

What a week. 

What a cohort.

Sam Foura

Head of Year 9

Year 9 Business Venture

Our Year 9 Business students recently held their market stalls. Students were tasked with sourcing the product, service or idea and preparing all elements of marketing and financial management. Students showed great entrepreneurial and organisational skills and should be very proud of their efforts in operating profitable business ventures.

Anthea Bennett

Head of Careers

Georgia's Brave Shave

Doing a shave for cancer research has been something I have wanted to do for a few years now. I have lost quite a few family members and close family friends to this horrible disease, so when I was offered to do a fundraiser at the school for my year 9 studies, I took it. It was incredible to see everyone coming to watch all my hair go. I was able to donate my hair to Wigs for Kids and have raised over $4,000 for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation.

A big thank you to everyone who showed up, people who gave money, people who wore a funny hat and a big thank you to my family and my hairdresser, Chloe from Elements Hair Room, who came in on her day off to do this for me.

Doing this shave was never for me, it was for Ray, Merryn, Paul, Sue and all the others who lost their courageous battle or who continue to fight. This is for you.

Donations are still welcome via my fundraising page: https://fundraise.acrf.com.au/fundraisers/georgie

Georgia Sanders

Year 9

Year 11 Ceramics

Year 11 students were given the task of collaborating with another artist, or inspirational person, to create a series of works for their final folio. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to let go of their control over an idea and allow a process to develop through communication and collaboration. Term 3 was spent generating ideas and experimenting with materials, mediums, techniques and importantly, time frames. Term 4 has been spent refining ideas and a flurry of activity surrounding the completion of the artwork.

Cat study was created by Shae Foster & her mother Kate - white raku clay with acrylic paint decoration.

Series of Drinking Mugs by Elleah Rodgers & Felix Fothergill - red raku clay and underglazes.

Slip cast Bowls, Plates & Mug by Elsa Osabutey & her mother Michelle - slip cast earthenware.

Students Honoured with Jazz Awards

Year 6 student Jack Mannix, saxophone and piano, and Year 12 student Archie Robson, electric guitar, were recipients of the Phillip Island Jazz Club Encouragement Award for 2025. The awards were presented by Mayor Cr Rochelle on Sunday 16 November at the Phillip Island Bowls Club. 

Congratulations to both Jack and Archie for their superb dedication to music

Mac rocks out AC/DC in Fed Square

Bagpiper, Mackenzie Cameron (Year 12), joined in at Fed Square last week to help break the world record for the largest group performance of the bagpipes. Before the AC/DC concert. A total of 374 bagpipers congregated to take out the record. It was almost impossible to spot Mac in the crowd, but he was certainly in the thick of it.

Mac was interviewed by The Age and was featured on their Facebook page. Congratulations Mac, what a fun event to be a part of!

Gippsland Associated Theatre Awards 2025

We are excited to announce more nominations for our incredible Newhaven performers and creatives! The GAT Awards will be announced at a gala event on 6 December.

Jude Fisher – Most Outstanding Male Youth Actor (Musical Theatre)

Aoife O’Connell - Most Outstanding Female Youth Actor (Musical Theatre)

Felix Fothergill – Most Outstanding Youth Performance (Male) (Musical Theatre)

Kerryn Lockhart - Most Outstanding Female Actor (Musical Theatre) and Most Outstanding Musical Director (Musical Theatre)

Melissa McMillan - Most Outstanding Director (Drama/Comedy)

Simon Furniss - Most Outstanding Lead Male Actor (Drama/Comedy)

Marni Johnston (Newhaven Mum) - Most Outstanding Lead Female Actor (Drama/Comedy) and Most Outstanding Support Female Actor (Drama/Comedy)

We wish everyone all the best!

Bike Ed 2025

In Week 7, our Year 4 and 5 students enjoyed an exciting four day Bike Education Program. Across the week, students built their confidence and skills on the bike while learning how to navigate the road environment safely and responsibly.

The highlight was our Bike Ed Challenge Ride on Friday, where students rode from school through the beautiful Oswin Roberts Reserve all the way to Conservation Hill in Rhyll, and back again, in absolutely perfect weather.

A huge thank you to our wonderful BUG volunteers, Chris Darts and Don Turner, for sharing their expertise and supporting our riders throughout the week. We are so grateful for your time and commitment to helping our students grow as safe, confident cyclists.

Well done to all our riders on a fantastic week of Bike Ed.

Jaclyn Clark

Junior School PE and Sports Teacher

Newhaven College Girls Surf

In 2025, the Newhaven College Surfing Academy (NCSA) increased its focus on making surfing more accessible for all students, leading to the development of the new Newhaven College Girls Surf program. 

Our inaugural event was held on Wednesday this week at Smiths Beach, where we were treated to offshore winds and a stunning 27 degree day. Twenty two girls from Years 5 - 8 took part, supported by an incredible coaching line-up that included guest surfers Sophie Fletcher, Nala Taylor, Kellie McDonald and Sian Adnam, along with senior students Finlay Cameron (Surf Captain), Jasira Derham, Piper O'Brien and Chloe Hosking. 

The session was a fantastic success, with the girls taking over the Smiths Beach line-up in a wave of enthusiasm, laughter and confident surfing. This event marks the beginning of a new program that we expect to grow in the coming years. Well done girls.

Ben Clark

Head of Surfing Academy

Staff/Student/Parent Surfing Competition

Each year our High Performance Surf Squad and a crew of game Newhaven College staff and parents hit the water for the much loved Staff/Student/Parent Surfing Competition to wrap up the year. Even with the onshore, mushy waves trying their best to spoil the party, the staff and parent teams paddled out with plenty of enthusiasm (and a fair bit of laughter). But once again, the students proved unstoppable. 

Finlay C, Zane M, River H and Harvey S teamed up to snag the win by the slimmest of margins. Well done, boys! 

A huge thank you to all staff and parents who jumped in and gave it a crack, always an absolute blast and the perfect way to finish the year.

Ben Clark

Head of Surfing Academy