Celebrating Community in Middle School
A notable Ted Lasso quote about community is, "If you care about someone, and you got a little love in your heart, there ain't nothing you can't get through together". Our theme for this term’s Whole School Assembly was community and what a joy it has been to celebrate the many ways our students connect, support, and grow together. It was marvellous to see so many students represented and to be reminded of the strength that comes from belonging.
This week we also welcomed our new Year 7 2026 families into our School and Middle School community at the Information Evening. This marks the beginning of a new partnership with these families, while also strengthening the connections we already share with our current families.
In Middle School, our sense of community has been particularly strong this term. We were delighted to host our friends from Ibaraki, and a heartfelt thank you goes to the entire Middle School community for making the students and their teachers feel welcome and supported. We have learned a lot from one another, shared cultures, and made amazing memories together. A special shout-out must go to our host families for opening their homes and making this exchange possible, your generosity is what community is all about.
The Year 8 Camp was another highlight, and we extend our thanks to the staff for their excellent organisation, care, and strong student connections that ensured a smooth and supportive program. Our Year 8s showed great spirit, stepping out of their comfort zones, tackling challenges with positivity, and making new connections beyond their usual circles. See report below with photos.
In Year 7 House Netball and the Year 7–8 House Cross Country, we saw strong attendance, great sportsmanship, and enthusiastic House spirit. It was especially pleasing to see students proudly wearing their House uniforms, which not only showed their pride but also made it easier for spectators to cheer them on.
Our Book Week Parade brought colour, creativity, and fun to Middle School, with a noticeable increase in students dressing up compared to last year. Many coordinated costumes with their classes or Houses, which added another layer of community connection.
Meanwhile, our Year 8 Community Projects now in their second year have been a fantastic opportunity for students to connect through shared interests. From music and photography to textiles, design, food, art, and drama, these projects allow students to explore their passions while discovering others who share them.
And of course, the everyday moments matter too. The Collect has become a hub at break times, whether it’s card games, downball, pickleball, piano, karaoke, or simply hanging out. This space and shared activities remind us that community is built not just in big events, but also in the laughter and friendships of daily school life.
As we look ahead, I am excited to see our Middle School community continue to grow as we share experiences, celebrate diversity, and strengthen the bonds that make us who we are.
The Importance of Regular School Attendance
Regular attendance at school is vital for student success. It strengthens learning, builds friendships, and sets up future opportunities. Students who attend consistently achieve higher academically, develop stronger social and emotional skills, and are more confident and connected to their school community.
We have noticed some concerning attendance rates from students in Middle School. If there are challenges affecting your child’s attendance, please contact us so we can work together to find solutions. We value our partnership with families and are committed to supporting every child’s success.
Calendar Dates
Tuesday 2 September - Father’s Day Stall
Wednesday 3 September - Year 7 Astronomy Evening at the Year 9 Environmental Centre.
Monday 8 September - Spring Concert Wonthaggi Community Arts Centre 6:00pm
Tuesday 9 September - Year 9 2026 Information Evening
Thursday 11 September - Year 5 Dream City incursion
Thursday 11 September - Adam Wallace author visit (Year 6)
Tuesday 16-19 September - Year 6 Camp Coolamatong
Ralph Arceo
Head of Middle School
Year 8 Camp - Kinglake
Newhaven College Year 8 students recently spent five days at Kinglake Forest Adventure Camp, with the theme of the camp focusing on leadership. Students were immersed in a wide range of outdoor education activities designed to challenge them and encourage them to “do hard things.”
For some, the challenge was learning to work effectively with others, for others it was discovering their creativity or overcoming a fear of heights. Every student had the opportunity to both thrive and lead, as well as collaborate and support their group.
A standout feature of the camp was the unique leadership approach taken by the camp staff, who led by stepping back. Rather than providing constant direction, they created situations that fostered resilience and encouraged students to overcome obstacles through trial, error, and teamwork.
The result was a truly rewarding experience where students developed not only their leadership skills but also confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of community whilst learning how to work with people they had not previously spent much time with.
Our students truly embraced the challenge and made us proud.
A big thank you to all of the staff who attended, giving up all of their personal time for the 5 days to facilitate an outstanding experience for our young people.
Ben Clark
Head of MS Clarke House
Big Science Competition
In Semester 1 our Year 7 Students took part in the Big Science Competition, a national challenge run by Australian Science Innovations. This 50-minute online competition tests science knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through real-world, contemporary contexts that make science both engaging and relevant.
We are delighted to share that two of our students achieved Distinctions, Cruz James and Matthew Korecki, placing them in the top 10–15% nationally, and twelve students received Credits, placing them in the top 25%. This is a fantastic achievement, and we congratulate all our Year 7 participants on their effort and enthusiasm for science.
Aisling Fagan
Middle School Teacher
Library News – Author Visit for Prep to Year 6 students
We are very pleased and happy to welcome Adam Wallace, popular children’s author to our school on Thursday, 11 September 2025. Adam will be speaking and work-shopping with our Prep to Year 6 students, providing them with the exciting and authentic experiences of a published author.
Please see the below flyer for information about purchasing Adam’s books (if you would like). Ordered items will be handed out to the children on the day, to be signed by Adam if the student’s wish. Any queries please email Janine Butera, Library janine.butera@newhavencol.vic.edu.au
Janine Butera
Librarian
Hanging out with Spike
Some of our Year 6 girls were happy to let Spike the beardie nestle in beside and help where he could with their work in class last week. Active after his annual brumation in Ms O'Dys classroom tank, Spike is often restless for attention when the classroom is a hive of activity. He will 'glass surf' or bob up and down until one of the students get him out for some time on the tables. Spike will happily stride a pencil case or chill on a shoulder; he enjoys the noises and stimulation of a busy group at work! He has also been out in the Collect at break times of late, eating his bugs in front of a captive audience and cruising for an up-close encounter with his fellow Middle School peers.
Shona O'Dempsey
Year 6 Classroom teacher