The Importance of Community at Newhaven College
Newhaven College’s Strategic Direction, Hearts & Minds, is underpinned by five keys that represent our priorities as a school: Learning, Care, Community, Sustainability and Innovation. These keys signify what we value most as a school. Of these, the place of Community stands as a cornerstone, influencing every aspect of school life and impacting the educational experience of our students.
Community is essential to a young person’s successful educational experience. It is the foundation upon which children build a sense of connection and belonging. In a thriving school environment, students are not only learners in the classroom but also valued members of a supportive and inclusive network. Feeling connected to others and knowing that one belongs is essential for a child’s emotional wellbeing and academic success.
We know that when students experience genuine connection, they are more likely to engage confidently, collaborate effectively, and embrace challenges with resilience. A strong sense of community inspires students to celebrate differences, support one another, and develop empathy - qualities that are vital for life beyond the classroom.
Our Newhaven College community is a broad one. Staff, students, parents and families are all integral members, as are past students and parents, neighbours and friends. All contribute to the important fabric of our community that adds to the rich environment that our students are part of.
Open Morning Saturday 14 March
Our upcoming Open Morning is a celebration of our community. It is a wonderful opportunity to showcase what makes Newhaven College so special. This event is more than just a chance to tour our facilities - it is a demonstration of the spirit that brings us together. We invite all members of our extended community - students, families, alumni, and friends - to join us in welcoming new faces and sharing our stories.
Open Morning allows us to present our values in action, highlighting the warmth, inclusiveness, and pride that define Newhaven College. It is through events like these that we strengthen our connections and further foster our sense of community. I hope you can join us.
In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength
Tony Corr
Principal
Board Update - Thank you to Kylie Holmes
At the end of 2025 Kylie Holmes concluded her tenure on the Newhaven College Board of Directors.
In her time on the Board, Kylie made an outstanding contribution, sharing both her financial and governance acumen for the benefit of the school. Her involvement included being in the role of College Treasurer for two years. Newhaven College extends its heartfelt thanks to Kylie for her generous contribution.
Newhaven College is now seeking Expressions of Interest to join its Board of Directors. The role of a Board Director is to provide governance, oversight, and strategic direction for the College.
If any member of our school community is interested in joining the Board, or would like more information, please contact the College’s Director of Business, Alan Nolan Alan.Nolan@newhavencol.vic.edu.au
Tony Corr
Principal
Mr Robert Freene - Life Governor
Newhaven College pays tribute to Mr Robert Freene, Foundation Board Member and Life Governor, who passed away on 30 January 2026.
Mr Freene was an integral member of Newhaven College’s Foundation Committee, alongside figures such as Peter Reith and Colin Bassett, and later became a member of the Foundation Board. He worked tirelessly to help the College open its gates on Boys Home Road in 1980. During the early years, Mr Freene and his wife Diane, were actively involved in working bees and the physical construction of the first classrooms. Together with the Foundation Board, Mr Freene selected and appointed Frank Moore as the Foundation Principal.
Fourteen years of dedicated and selfless service followed, contributing significantly to the school’s growth before Mr Freene was awarded Life Governorship. A passionate advocate for Newhaven College, Mr Freene believed strongly in its vision and future success. All three of his children were educated at the College, with his son Craig serving as School Captain in 1986. His children remain deeply proud of both the College and their father’s enduring legacy, which continues to shape the College’s success to this day.
Tony Corr
Principal