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