In this issue

“Creating a Culture of Honour in our Relationships.”

Lately I have been spending time reading and watching some of Danny Silk’s resources around creating a culture of honour in the home, work place and interpersonally with others. It has made me think more and more about the things that I can do personally and professionally to help construct a culture of honour wherever I go.

I thought I might share a couple of thoughts from what I am learning at present in this area and hopefully it will inspire, encourage and challenge you in the way that it has for me.

Firstly, I think it is important to understand that honour is valuing other people regardless of their differences. Honour does not necessarily mean that we agree with everything that a person does or believes. Creating a culture of honour in any environment starts with the personal decision to choose to place honour and value on others, regardless of what they choose to do. Now here is the kicker – honour is choosing to love and respect others, even if they are choosing to behave in a way that is not respectful, loving or in agreement with you.

That is all very easy to say and think and quite challenging to put into practice. Danny expresses that we do not know if there is honour in the relationship until it is tested with a problem or until something goes wrong and that our response in those situations display the level of honour we have. For example, it is all well and good to show honour to a child when they are listening, following your instructions, and speaking nicely to you. It is a completely different story when they are speaking disrespectfully and arguing with you.

It is easy to show honour and respect to a friend when they are being a loyal and supportive friend, but it is more challenging to show honour to a friend when they say something negative about you. When there is honour in a relationship, even if others are not being respectful, we are still able to control the way we choose to respond to what is in front of us. We can choose to speak kind words, stay in control of ourselves and think before we act.

Whenever there is conflict and a confrontation, we often picture people arguing, raising their voices and becoming emotional to express their feelings and convey their perspective. I am sure that we have all witnessed or experienced at some point in our life a conflict where this has happened and things have not been resolved or able to be repaired after this. However, Danny describes the importance of confronting with the goal of connection. When two people discuss their issues or conflict with the intent of becoming closer and working through the concerns, the conversations and approach is very different. When two people honour each other by confronting with the goal to connect, often the content of the discussion is filled with grace and understanding, the way they speak is kind and they are able to hear and take on feedback because the goal stays the same even if the discussion is heated – “that I want to connect with you better and I want to work through this”.

Those are my two main thoughts that I wanted to share, but there are many more concepts in Danny’s teaching that have positively helped me personally and professionally to be better at loving others and honouring them. If you are interested in reading or watching more of his teaching, he has developed several different programs, some of which you can borrow from the college library. In addition to this, we also run Danny’s Loving Our Kids on Purpose programs several times throughout the year and his Life Academy courses are also available online. I would highly recommend them to anyone who is interested. You are more than welcome to contact our Student Care and Well-being team if you have any questions around the programs and courses or Danny’s teaching.

For further information around the Life Academy, please visit https://loving-on-purpose-life-academy.thinkific.com/

Year 1

Year 1 have been super busy since starting back this term.

During math lessons we have been learning about time and time durations. We’ve been brushing up on our counting knowledge and using new strategies to help us solve addition and subtraction word problems.

We’ve loved learning about special events and celebrations during HASS lessons. We’ve discussed and compared how families celebrate some traditions differently and liked learning about other celebrations around the world too!

Of course, most importantly, we have begun working our way through the wonderful story of Christmas! What an exciting time! The children have loved reading a part of the story each week and have engaged in some super fun craft activities. We are enjoying getting into the Christmas spirit nice and early!

The Year 1 team is so, so proud of each and every student this year! We have witnessed so much growth and have loved every minute! The smiles of your little ones, truly bring us so much joy each and every day. We are so blessed to be a part of your child’s learning journey. We will miss each kiddo terribly and can’t believe this year is almost over. Thank you for your support, love and care this year. We are so incredibly grateful.

See you around!
Mrs Clausen, Mrs Davis, Mrs Marsh and Mrs S

 Year 2

There has been so much happening in year 2 over the last month. We had a wonderful time at the internal evergreen puppet show a few weeks ago. The show was a hit with the students embarking on a journey to the deep, where they met crostaitians, turtles and other sea creatures. Last Friday students built their toy cars they had researched and planned for in their design technology and science subjects.  We were honoured to have parent helpers for the building day and had a blast making holes in bottle cap lids and fastening their individual systems together. Thank you to all that were able to help, it made the day go quicker than expected and was a lot of fun.

New Occupational Therapist on site…

In Sync Kids OT have a satellite clinic within Parklands Christian College providing private Occupational Therapy Services specifically to students of the school. In Sync Kids Occupational Therapy specialises in sensory integration and neurodevelopment.  The current Occupational Therapist, Kylie McMahon, is going on maternity leave. Kelsey Hackett will now be the Occupational Therapist and point of contact for the satellite clinic within Parklands Christian College.

Kelsey Hackett has experience working as a paediatric occupational therapist since 2015 in the United States and has relocated to Brisbane in 2021. She has her Bachelors of Psychology and Master of Occupational Therapy degree. She has worked in the clinic-based and school-based settings with children of all ages and a wide range of diagnoses for the past 7 years.

For any additional information regarding Occupational Therapy services, please contact Kelsey Hackett kelsey.hackett@insynckidsot.com  and feel free to look at the In Sync Kids OT website for more information http://www.insynckidsot.com

Senior Updates

As I write this newsletter article, the Year 12’s are in the midst of completing final assessment, workshops and their external examinations.

Year 12 recently shared a breakfast to mark the beginning of their three week exam block. They also had some quality time and prayer with each other and staff. Thank you to the Year 10 and 11 Hospitality students and staff who helped prepare breakfast!

Year 12 is a challenging year and we are very proud of how our seniors are conducting and applying themselves to their studies. We continue to uphold them in our prayers at this busy time.

Year 11

Shortly, Year 11 families will receive a home communication update on their Year 11 child’s progress for Units 1 and 2, with a forecast of their points and eligibility for the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), or Queensland Certificate of Independent Achievement (QCIA) across Units 1-4.

The new QCE system is rigorous and as such, we strongly promote and encourage all senior students to be committed to their studies and to understand that whilst undertaking full-time study, schooling must be their first priority. We also encourage a study routine that incorporates daily revision, along with the completion of work – both class and assessment based.

Please know that first and foremost we care about each individual student. Where needed, we can provide you and your child with further individual advice, support with study strategies and options for changes to their Senior College pathways. Please let your child’s Pastoral Care (PC) teacher, Mrs Elizabeth Lenton (Careers & Vocational Coordinator) or myself know if this would be helpful.

Year 10

We are so proud of our Year 10’s and how much they have grown since their first day of Senior College. On Monday 15th to Friday 19th November, Year 10’s are only required to attend school during exams and scheduled assessment items that they are currently enrolled in. This is a step to help them transition into preparing for their senior External Assessments (EAs).

Thank you for looking out for this home communication and for returning the attached Study-At-Home form. Student attendance during the last weeks of classes is crucial.  The “Study at Home Permission” notes are due back on 12 November and assist in the non-accrual of absences. A reminder, QCAA only allows 10 unexplained absences per year and unexplained absences can place a student at risk of not graduating that year level.

Students will also have the option of coming to school during sessions, where they have no assessment, to complete work in one of the allocated study rooms.

If you have any questions about Year 10, Miss Abby Dixon (Year 10 Coordinator) will be able to assist you with any enquiries.

Absence for Examinations

A reminder, students in Years 10-12 who are absent for an examination MUST have a medical certificate, dated the day of their exam, to explain their absence. For Year 12, QCAA request more detail than “unfit for duty”. In Year 12, the medical certificate must include multiple days (if your child misses more than one examination). Please contact the College if you have any questions on this matter.

End of Year Procedures & Celebratory Events

Where did the year go? With just a few short weeks before the end of the academic year, life is very busy for our seniors as they finalise end of year assessment

Year 12 Final Days

On 16 – 18 November, Year 12 have three ­­­­­­­compulsory days of activities. Each day entails important rehearsals for Awards Night and Graduation morning. There are also guest speakers and some really fun outside activities planned for our seniors, to enjoy their final school week. A Year 12 home communication, with further detail, is scheduled to be sent home shorty.

Awards Night

We look forward to celebrating all of our students at the upcoming Awards Night ceremony on Tuesday 16 November. This is a compulsory evening to celebrate all achievements for the academic year. In exceptional circumstances, when attendance is not possible, a written explanation should be submitted to Student Services.

Students are asked to arrive at the Baskerville Sports Centre by 6:45pm. Seniors need to wear their winter academic uniform. We look forward to celebrating with all of our secondary students.

Year 12 Graduation

The Year 12’s will be graduating from the College in a Graduation ceremony on 19 November. This will be a time in which the whole College acknowledges the work and dedication of their formal education and celebrates and blesses them as they depart secondary school. The morning celebration continues with a morning tea prior to an early departure, to prepare for their formal evening.

So, it is a very busy yet rewarding time of year. On behalf of all the Secondary team, we are praying for your children as they complete final assessment. Prayers for motivation; to finish off strongly, for good health, for wise decisions about sleep and healthy food, and for thoughts to be recalled with ease in their examinations.

If you have any questions, please contact me through Student Services or direct via email at: rwallis@parklands.qld.edu.au

Blessings,

Mrs Rebecca Wallis
Coordinator of Senior College

With only 4 weeks left of the academic year the Year 7’s are fast approaching Year 8.  What a journey Year 7 has been for many of them.  From nervous and anxious students starting day one,  packing for every subject, just in case, to students who are (hopefully) confident in organising their own world, most of the time. Each student has grown in a variety of ways and I am incredibly proud of each and every one of them.

Year 7 is a year of transition. A year of leaving behind being the oldest and tallest of the primary school and being the ‘twelvies’ in Secondary school. It’s a year of learning to move between classrooms, packing the night before and being organised, switching mindsets as they change subjects and teachers, each who have a different teaching style. A year of managing homework that is not given out on a Monday and due back on Friday, but on differing days, and a year of developing new friendships as they are introduced to new people and find out more about themselves and their developing character.

On top of this our Year 7’s have spent some weeks learning from home, during our time of PCConline.  Managing the additional stress of online learning and adapting to this learning style very quickly. Twenty Twenty One has sure encouraged the development of resilience and adaptability in our Year 7 students.  As we hurry towards the last few weeks of term, I have been encouraging the Year 7’s to celebrate their many successes this year and think on the skills and attitudes they wish to develop and work on in Year 8.

To continue their Middle School journey, the students have been encouraged to finish well, placing their best efforts into their studies till the final day of the year. To continue to be fearless, curious and courageous in working on their assessments, creative in the classrooms, when confronting challenges and show their peers and the college community that the Year 7 cohort of 2021 is a loving one that supports and uplifts one another.

I would like to draw your attention to the Year 7 Assessment Schedule and the assignments and assessments (both worked on and completed in class time) that are coming up.

Assessment Schedule Year 7

I look forward to celebrating the many successes of 2021 with the Year 7’s as we quickly move towards the end of the 2021 academic year.

Creative Generation Excellence in Visual Arts Exhibition

On the 29th to the 31st of October, four Parklands students had their work displayed in the South East Regional Creative Generation Exhibition hosted by the Walls Gallery, Gold Coast.

The Creative Generation exhibition recognises and celebrates the artistic achievement and creative talents of senior high school students across Queensland. Since 1990, the program has helped raise community awareness of the degree of sophistication in concepts, diversity of technical competence, and the high standard of visual art education in Queensland secondary schools.

Congratulations to Hannah Clausen, Isabella Dahlitz, Tori Hankins and Maria Mariuta for having their work selected in this year’s exhibition!

You can view their amazing artworks at the 2021 Creative Generation Online Gallery: https://www.e-award.com.au/2021/cgenvisualarts/gallery/gallery.php?id=5

Certificate III Business Students

Congratulations to Simon Nguyen, Jaiden Nguyen, Dylan Jackson, and Zachary Greene who recently completed their Certificate III in Business with #Binnacletraining. The students have worked hard over the past 2 years to complete their certificate course alongside their senior subjects. The students learnt what it takes to become a Business Professional. They achieved skills in leadership, innovation, customer service, personal management and financial literacy – incorporating the delivery of a range of projects and services within our school community including RUOK day BBQ and the development of their own Micro business. Congratulations boys!

Face Masks

Below are two examples of appropriate face masks to be worn at school.  Please ensure bandannas and other fashion items are not worn.

Psalm 98:5-6 “Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song, with trumpets and the sound of the ram’s horn. Make a joyful symphony before the Lord, the King!”

As the end of the year draws near, it was wonderful to reflect upon our students’ achievements at our Arts Finale on Tues 19^th October. Over 100 students performed in various ensembles during the evening, and some also treated us with a solo performance. It was a truly wonderful night of celebration and music, with a fabulous Visual Art display from our Primary & Middle Schools and delicious sausages cooked by our RAW On Country team. Thanks to everyone who made it a great night, and we hope you as the families of music & art students enjoyed the evening.

Lessons & Rehearsals

Instrumental music lessons will continue in term 4; Give It A Go! lessons will finish in week 6, with private & shared lessons finishing in week 7. Give It A Go! students who wish to continue learning in 2022 will need to complete an Enrolment form & return it to Students Services. Students who are already having private or shared lessons do not need to re-enrol, as their enrolments will roll over automatically into 2022. If your child wishes to withdraw from lessons in 2022, you need to notify us in writing by emailing instruments@parklands.qld.edu.au by 31 Dec 2021.

All Band & Choir rehearsals are continuing on the normal schedule, with continued distancing & cleaning measures. Final rehearsal dates will be communicated to you by the conductor.

Give It A Go! Band Programme

It’s been so wonderful to hear our current group of Give It A Go! students making more progress & learning new things! I’ve been hearing students improving their tone & becoming more proficient, and it’s fantastic to see the enthusiasm in these budding musicians. Reflecting on how far they’ve come this year – they should all be very proud of themselves!

This year’s Give It A Go! students will formally finish their programme in week 6, at which time they will return their instruments to school. If students wish to continue learning in 2022 & beyond they can enrol for private or shared lessons, and while we will need most of the College instruments for next year’s Give It A Go! students, there may be some College instruments available for hire. Please contact us on instruments@parklands.qld.edu.au if you wish to enquire about this option.

Our Year 3’s have been learning about the different brass, woodwind & percussion instruments, & have heard them played by some of our current students. Offers for places in our Give It A Go! Band Programme in 2022 will be going home very soon, and enrolment forms will be due shortly after. Watch your inbox!

Performances

Please enjoy below some photos from our Arts Finale on Tuesday 19^th October. Can your children find themselves?

There is always a way to be part of our growing Instrumental Programme – here’s how your child can be involved:

1. Give It A Go! Band Programme – Year 4 students only

This is a one year beginner programme for Year 4 students, giving them the opportunity to learn a woodwind, brass or percussion instrument in small groups during school time. There is a one-off $400 levy for the year which covers all lessons & band rehearsals, a tuition book & use of a school instrument for one year. Many places for this are currently filled, however we do have a number of vacancies across most instruments. If your child is in Year 4 & would like to be involved, please contact us at instruments@parklands.qld.edu.au

2. Private lessons

Private lessons are available for piano, guitar, drum kit, voice, most woodwind & and all brass & stringed instruments. Lessons are scheduled mostly during school time, & fees are billed by & payable directly to the instrumental teachers at $30/30mins.

3. Shared lessons

Shared lessons are available for all of the above instruments except piano, guitar & voice. Lessons are again scheduled mostly during school time, & fees are also billed by & payable directly to the instrumental teachers at $18/30mins for a Group of 2 or $14/30mins for a Group of 3, pending availability.

Enrolment forms can be downloaded below, and are also available by emailing instruments@parklands.qld.edu.au

PCC Music Department Guidelines with form

In Sync Kids OT have a satellite clinic within Parklands Christian College providing private Occupational Therapy Services specifically to students of the school. In Sync Kids Occupational Therapy specialises in sensory integration and neurodevelopment.  The current Occupational Therapist, Kylie McMahon, is going on maternity leave. Kelsey Hackett will now be the Occupational Therapist and point of contact for the satellite clinic within Parklands Christian College.

Kelsey Hackett has experience working as a paediatric occupational therapist since 2015 in the United States and has relocated to Brisbane in 2021. She has her Bachelors of Psychology and Master of Occupational Therapy degree. She has worked in the clinic-based and school-based settings with children of all ages and a wide range of diagnoses for the past 7 years.

For any additional information regarding Occupational Therapy services, please contact Kelsey Hackett kelsey.hackett@insynckidsot.com  and feel free to look at the In Sync Kids OT website for more information http://www.insynckidsot.com

Logan City Council

Community Support for Students in need

Click for information:
Support list for schools

Positive Mindset Creative Arts Festival 2021 presents:

Click for details:
Streetfest

Beta Blvd – Indoor Climbing

We would love to offer individuals #HaveAGo at Sport Climbing with us. With climbing’s inclusion in the Tokyo Olympic Games and its recognition as a National Sport by the Australian Government, rock climbing is fast gaining popularity.  We are offering kids and youth aged 6-17 to try one of our climbing classes for free.  For more information visit: https://www.betablvd.com.au/have-a-go-indoor-climbing

Fair Play Voucher Provider

Supporting Queensland kids to get active.  We are a Fair Play Voucher provider and would love to help recipients get active and discover the joys of climbing and its community. When people redeem their Fair Play voucher with us they receive a 10 trip pass to our climbing gym.  For more information visit: https://www.betablvd.com.au/fairplay-voucher-provider

HaveAGo-Flyer Indoor Climbing

FairPlay-Poster Indoor Climbing

Chess Mates Club

Do you want your child to experience the benefits of learning chess while still having fun along the way?  Designed especially for children in Prep and above, our chess classes are fun, interactive, and tailored by our teachers to suit the students in each class. While your child will still learn that winning can be fun, they’ll also learn a whole lot more! In fact, chess can help your child develop socially, academically, and emotionally.

Tuesday 3:30 – 4:15
Starting Week 1
$10 per session
Located at the BSC (Baskerville Sports Centre)

To book please go to https://chessmates.com.au/school-lessons/ Parklands Christian College is under South Brisbane.

To know about what we stand for, our founder Ash did a TEDx talk at UQ last year. Here is a link to it – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMTga50-j3g&t=7s

 

Parklands CC _ Updated2021_ Small-01

Logan Little Legends

The Logan Little Legends program has been designed to target children aged 4-8 years old and to encourage them to make new friends whilst having fun and getting fit at the same time.

• Sessions are held every Monday and Wednesday
• Time:   4.00pm-4.45pm
• Cost:  $8 per session
• Location:  Logan Metro Sport & Events Centre – 357 Browns Plains Road, Crestmead
• Bookings welcome – please contact insports@logan.qld.gov.au or alternatively phone 3081 6600

New Super Futsal

Parklands Free come & Try Futsa-min

Parklands Christian College, in conjunction with Super Futsal, are super proud to be offering Futsal right here in our newly upgraded Baskerville Sports Centre. Please see the flyer for Junior Boys and Girls and Adult times.

Whether you are a beginner or a pro, there is a level for everyone!

Make sure you register for the open day to avoid missing out! Registrations to parklands@superfutsal.com.au

Looking forward to a fantastic season of Futsal!

Tae Kwan Do

Moon Lee Tae Kwon Do classes have started up again in the school hall (BSC) on Mondays 3.30 – 4.30 pm.

New students and previous students are welcome.

• First class Free
• Family Concessions
• Value Packed Family Activity
• Over 50 clubs in Brisbane Area
• Free Uniform offer (this month call now!)
• Character Traits instilled in students from learning Tae Kwon Do are: Modesty, Perseverance, Self Control, Indomitable Spirit, Self Defence, Physical Fitness

For more information phone the instructor, Colin Garrick (8th Dan Black Belt 45 years experience teaching)  Ph: 0438 865 800 or the Club Office: 1300 101 303

Rugby Union

Park Ridge Football Club

Park Ridge Tennis

2021 TERM 1 SIGN UP ON NOW
FREE HOTSHOTS TRIAL LESSON

A new sign on is about to start for Hot Shots Tennis.

Come along for a  free trial lesson and see if you like it.

All new pupils receive a Free Racquet & Hot Shots T-Shirt on sign up.

We have lessons that run every afternoon, for all ages & levels.

Peewee Hotshots for 4-7 year olds, Hot Shot programs for 7-12 year olds & advanced groups for 12-17yr olds. For adults we have Cardio Tennis, Lessons & Social  comps every week night & now a new Fast 4 comp for players starting or getting back into tennis, the Fast 4 format goes for just over an hour.

To book in or to arrange a free trial phone Paul or Steph on 32000354 at Park Ridge Tennis.

Free Dental Care

FREE DENTAL CARE

I cannot believe we’ve only got about 4 weeks left of school for 2021 – wow, how time has flown!

Late afternoon Student Pick Up change

In wishing to ensure the safety of our Primary students of an afternoon, we are looking to enforce the ‘late collection process’.

Any Primary students (without a Secondary sibling supervising them) who have permission from parents and the school to go to the grass area, who have not been collected from the grass area near the Pedestrian Crossing before 3.30pm will be taken up to STUDENT SERVICES by the afternoon duty teacher at 3.30pm. Parents arriving after 3.30pm are to collect all Primary students from Student Services.

This way all our precious little ones are safe, protected and if a parent arrives late, the Student Services ladies are at least aware, can call parents, and remain with them until collected.
Thank you for your understanding, support and cooperation.

2022 Class Placements

We believe God has a destiny for every student in our school. He has already placed within them the skills, gifts and talents that they need to become the person God intended them to be. We are also blessed to have excellent teachers at Parklands because of God’s call on their life. Class teachers, Teacher Aides, Specialists, RTC & LE Staff spend an enormous amount of time praying, working through and discussing the issues involved with student placements and in trying to ensure that classes are well balanced. The matters of student learning style, academic ability, student & staff personality, friendships, behavioural concerns, as well as social and emotional needs are earnestly discussed in the whole class selection process.
A reminder, we know the students at school and do not accommodate requests from parents to swap class placements. It is an extremely difficult task that is complicated by requests for and against staff and other students or friends. We ask that you would pray for wisdom and discernment for your child’s teacher as they look to care for and meet the needs of each student.
Thank you for your understanding and support in this regard and look forward to seeing a wonderful working relationship develop between teacher, student and parent!

Awards Night

The Parklands Christian College Awards Night ceremonies now resume after Covid restrictions have relaxed and will be taking place on the evening of Thursday 25th November.

We’ll have the Prep to Yr. 2 Awards Night Ceremony from 6 – 7.15 pm in the Baskerville Sport Centre (BSC) and after dismissing these students and parents during the break / intermission, we’ll invite the Year 3-6 parents and students into the Baskerville Sport Centre to commence their Year 3-6 Awards Night ceremony starting at 7.30 – 8.30 pm. A more detailed Awards Night Letter for BOTH ceremonies will be forthcoming.

I know this year’s Awards Nights are going to be another tremendous highlight for us, not only because they will allow each and every student to be encouraged, rewarded and esteemed for their effort by walking across the stage to be presented with their certificates but also because we normally have so many parents joining us to celebrate their child’s achievements. This for us is such a blessing and what teaching is all about!

It’s also going to be wonderful to use the BSC for this event for the first time, as the auditorium has now become too small to house all those attending the events.

We plan to have a big Audio Visual screen and have three professional photographers from MSP Photography present on the evening to capture your child’s celebratory moments. As a gift, the College will be providing parents with an electronic copy of the photo, details of how to access this will be emailed at a later date.

Uniforms

Please clearly label all uniform items as well as lunchbox and water bottles with your child’s first and last NAME (not just initials).
We still have 4 weeks left of school plus students need to look smart for Awards Night so we are asking parents to please ensure that their children are correctly and neatly dressed every day – especially the correct WHITE sneakers. If unsure of the Primary Uniform Policy, please feel free to check our website, ask a class teacher or RTC staff. Appreciate your assistance and support in this regard.

Balancing Your Child’s Digital Diet

BY MARTINE OGLETHORPE

When considering your child’s or young person’s digital diet it’s important to move beyond the notion of keeping kids safe to look at the types of activities their screen-time might be denying them.
There are many aspects to take into account including the maintenance of mental and physical health; fulfilling school and family duties and ensuring that young people develop a full gamut of real world communication skills.

For the sake of living a balanced life, ensure your child has sufficient time for:

1. Sleep: It’s super important that kids are getting a good night’s sleep. Keeping devices out of the bedroom when they are young, and avoiding the screens for at least an hour before bed, helps ensure their sleep needs are met.

2. Down time: Today’s kids don’t tend to get as much time to be bored as kids used to. It is an important skill to be able to fill in their time themselves. Bored time promotes creative play and thinking as kids are forced to come up with other ways to amuse themselves.

3. Connection: Face-to-face interaction is obviously crucial for children’s social and emotional development and wellbeing. Time with friends, siblings and family members must always be a priority. Learning to engage, problem solve and read body language and facial expressions are all crucial skills that need real-life time and experience to develop.

4. Physical activity: A healthy body and mind requires activity and movement. Kids still love to get out and play. However, some may need a bit more encouragement to remind them.

5. Reflection: Whilst playing games may be described by many kids as their downtime (and yes, there is some validity to this argument), kids also need downtime that involves doing very little. It is in these moments of reflection, of thinking and of pondering, that our ideas come to us and our creativity for other activities flows.

6. Focus: There are times of the day when all of us need to be focused on other tasks. These may be homework, chores, reading a book or the newspaper, building something or making something. There needs to be time in kids’ days where they are able to focus solely on a task without the distractions of a screen.

7. Family meals: Getting plenty of good food is of course very important to kids’ wellbeing. But it’s not just about the food. Sitting at the table with parents, siblings or others, focusing on enjoying a meal together without the need of a screen, helps children to develop good habits while they are young which they can carry into the future.

Obviously there will be times when all these needs are not completely balanced. There will be periods when screens are used more often and times when one or more valuable needs is neglected. But if we can use this as a guide and aim to fit the many key experiences our kids need into each day, we are much more likely to ensure our kids grow up with a healthy respect for their screens and a healthy respect for the many areas of their life that need to be nurtured.

Pray you have a wonderful rest of this term and year.

Dear Parklands Family,

It’s that time of the year when we start preparing for the many special events that take place at the end of an academic year.  All going well, I am looking forward to seeing you all on site at our award nights, carols and little events that help us celebrate another wonderful year at Parklands.  If you compare 2021 to 2020, there is much to celebrate and despite a few disruptions, we have enjoyed a relatively smooth three and a half terms so far.

This year Parklands is going to trial having our award nights in the Baskerville Sports Centre (BSC).  Our College has simply outgrown our church auditorium, and needs to find a venue with more space. I think the BSC will be a whole lot cooler too. We would also like to offer professional photos to our families like we did last year, and we can facilitate this better within the BSC.  We are all excited to host our Year 12 Graduation Ceremony in the BSC after doing this successfully from this facility last year.

There will be some changes to our ceremonies as we adapt to the more open and larger space.  Currently the BSC is not fitted with sound and lighting sufficient to run everything we want, and as such we will hire all necessary equipment and modify some of our student performances. We will survey parents in the New Year to hear how it all went.

One of our more exciting changes in 2022 is the introduction of our new Device Management Program. Thank you to the parents who emailed us asking more questions about this scheme.  A Student Device Program page has now been added to our web site to better spell out the program, and also offers a frequently asked questions section based on your feedback so far. Most of the questions we have received have been focused around the area of ‘ownership’ of the device.

The key reasons why we are seeking to implement this program is so the College can ensure the quality (and specifications) of student devices used in our classrooms, manage device maintenance, reliability and supply and limit and regulate installed software.  Our IT Department will be able to provide our teachers and students with optimal learning devices that are secure, always available and contain software that is for the purposes of learning.  It’s not a fool proof strategy, but we believe our new approach gives our educators an increased confidence using devices in the classroom and beyond.

I am excited as we plan and prepare for the 2022 Academic Year.  Over the next couple of years, our site will be a hive of activity as we commence a building program in 2022, moving Primary students into new buildings (2023-24) and change location of the Middle School along the way.  We are also building a new Kindergarten (beside Prep) which we hope will be ready in 2024. Along the way we are working hard to improve our curriculum, and explore the way our new Primary Precinct can excite and challenge young learners. It’s an exciting time to be a part of Parklands Christian College.

I look forward to seeing you all around our site soon,

Gary Cully
Principal

2022 & Vacation Care

Dear Parents & Families

We will shortly be forwarding all families enrolments to be completed for before & afterschool care and vacation care for the 2022 school year.  To secure definite placement these need to be
returned to the service promptly and no later than Friday 18^th November.

We also have Vacation Care fast approaching and we are now accepting bookings for the upcoming vacation care period.
We are still applying the final touches of fun to the program however if you would like a copy of the program and booking form forwarded onto you please contact us on 07/3297 0577 or parklandsbookings@bigpond.com or alternatively pop on into the service and our friendly staff will assist you.

If you love Christmas, it’s another reason to love our school! We start to celebrate all things Christmas in November! Kicking off this Friday night the 5^th of November with our annual Christmas Carols on the Green. This year both the school and Parklands Church are coming together for the evening. It’s a night you don’t want to miss, with so many different talented students sharing God’s love through music.

The Friendlies committee have accomplished so much together over the years and have been able to provide the school with various equipment and playground upgrades. Most recently we have been able to fund 20 mountain bikes and a storage container for the bikes to be stored in. These will be used by both the secondary and the upper primary students. We are also excited to have funds allocated towards our new Primary playground once the new Primary buildings are complete.

The Friendlies encourages harmonious and lifelong relationships within the Parklands parent body and school community. The committee provide opportunities for families to connect and fellowship at the various fundraising events they hold and serve at during the year. All money raised through these events is donated back to the College for the benefit of students. We would love for you to join with us in strengthening one another.

For Now, Keep Smiling

The Friendlies Team

Yowala, (Hello)

Recently we had the opportunity to partner with Raw Impact, and go On Country to visit the Gunggari Nation and Carnarvon Gorge with a wonderful team of around 21 students and 5 staff members. We all arrived at school at 6am, hopped on a couple of minivans and headed about 7 hours west to a small town called Mitchell, which became our home for the next 5 days.

From the moment we arrived at the Yumba, which in the Gunggari native language means ‘home’, we were welcomed with such open arms by the amazing Gunggari elders Aunty Sue, Sareva and Liana. Much to our surprise, the elders were quite shocked that we had even shown up. Sadly, the reason for this was because of the many broken promises they’d experienced in the past. This fact shocked us all but made us want to be there even more.

Over the course of our 5 days at the Yumba, we became immersed in the Gunggari Nation’s beautiful culture. The elders taught us about the intricacies of their lifestyle, their history and what their ancestors had experienced first hand. Despite learning about our first nation’s people in history classes at school, I was shocked at how little I really understood about a past that was so close to home.

We learnt all about the Aboriginal smoking ceremony and what it means to them. They take the young wet leaves of a Sandalwood tree and place them on the hot embers of a fire. We walk through the smoke, pausing for a moment to speak to God, asking him to open our eyes and hearts to all he has on offer to learn. It’s also a time to lay down any hurts or offences that we are carrying in our hearts and be ready, and open to new beginnings.

Now, as eye opening as it was to learn about a new culture, it was not the only reason we were staying at the Yumba. The elders of the Gunggari Nation have an amazing plan, to bring back the families of the families who had once been displaced during the stolen generation. Our goal for this trip was to help clean up around the Yumba so that when the time comes, and their people are brought back, it is ready with resources for their use. They also have a plan to build a Bush Tucker Tourism Industry so the Gunggari Nation can be self sufficient and they can share their knowledge and culture with more people.

 Being the first school to go on this trip meant we had the glorious task of starting the hard yard work, cleaning up their nursery. This was honestly so much fun. The big picture plan was to turn the old nursery into a new ‘Bush Tucker Nursery’, filled with traditional Gungarri foods and medicines. We also cleaned out their shed, cut firewood and dug out an area for new water tanks. A special shoutout to Kainen and Isaac for doing the job that nobody wanted and wrestling that cactus off the roof.

We spent our final 2 days camping and hiking through Carnarvon Gorge. Carnarvon is so beautiful and we loved every moment of being there.

My favourite parts of this entire trip were just being able to share so many laughs with the people around me and learning so much about the Gunggari nation’s wonderful culture. I loved that all grade and friendship group barriers went out the window and we just got to really connect with each other on a new level.

Most afternoons we relaxed in the local artisan bore bath pools nearby. The water comes out of an underground bore at 40 degrees so it was the perfect way to end each day.

Over the course of this trip, all of us learnt so much about the Gunggari Nation, the land and one another. We were able to build new relationships and meet new people who revealed to us a culture that impacted each of us in different ways. I think that most of us can say we worked harder in the nursery than we do in our gardens at home… and perhaps the next group that goes can save Mrs Young by getting that frog out of the girls toilet.

Hannah Smart and Hannah Takada

*****

This trip was so incredibly rewarding. Every day brought new opportunities to serve within the Gunggari community and connect with one another. Amidst the full-on days, I found inspiration at every corner. Being an artist at heart I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed by the immense beauty and rich culture within the multifaceted environment over at the Yumba. Throughout our ventures to places like Mt Moffat and Aunty Sareva’s bush supermarket I sought inspiration from all aspects of the environment. I looked beyond what I could initially see and considered what I could hear, smell and how it made me feel.

The Yumba is no doubt such a spiritual and welcoming place, and I instantly felt that I was drawn and connected to it. I knew that I had to create something special to reflect this sense of spiritual stability and connection. Thus, the paintings you see below. Within my painting process I attempted to remember everything I learnt over that week. Reflecting back on the time we practiced dadirri and adopting that notion into my painting process. Just being able to be still and listen to not only my surroundings but what God was saying to me, and truly understanding that these paintings are not for my own enjoyment or pride but are a testament to the Gunggari people. God has given me my gifts and talents for moments like these where I can express my gratitude and appreciation towards the elders for their kind souls and welcoming hearts, for allowing us to come onto their country and help them.

The Yumba is a place full of hope, hope for the Gunggari people to be connected to country again. I hope for my paintings to be a passage of curiosity, for you guys to be inspired to come next year to the Yumba and see it for yourself and understand exactly what I mean. This will be an experience I will never forget, and I will hold it close to my heart forever.

Maria Mariuta, Yr 11, 2022 College Captain

*****

I’d like to talk about Daen Munn, a Gunggari man who had a massive impact on our team this year. He is the current Chairperson of the Gunggari Native Title Aboriginal Corporation and the son of Robert Munn, a Gunggari elder who initiated the current claim for the native title over Gunggari country. It took 20 years of research and petitioning the government and courts to recognise that the land of Mitchell and surrounds belonged to the Gunggari Nation. Actually, they don’t say that the land belongs to them, they say that they are from the land, or of the land.

During our time in Mitchell at the Yumba, Daen welcomed us and taught us so much about the land. He showed us why it’s so special to him and that every plant, animal and insect had a purpose, whether it was for food, medicine or hunting. For me, this was my favourite part of the trip, as it allowed me to practice gratitude and appreciate the little things we take for granted each day. This was also a powerful message to many people, not only was it interesting but it demonstrated the importance of finding your purpose, if a rock or a leaf has one, then so do we.

It was honestly so amazing that after only a few days we felt like we’d known Daen all our life. He was so welcoming and treated us like we were important. He valued us and spoke worth and wisdom into our lives.  He had a quiet kind way about him and a great sense of humour.

We split into two groups with the girls going off to do secret women’s business and learning basket weaving.  Daen took all of us guys off to the river to do some secret men’s business. He taught us how to use a didgeridoo using pvc pipe and throw a curved stick called a Bundi.  We also went fishing using yabby pots and learnt how to track animals. You can actually tell the size of the animal and how fast it’s going by the distance between each print in the dirt.

The best day was when just the boys spent all afternoon by the river throwing bundi’s at fake birds we’d set up on logs. We were all cheering for each other and just basically acting like wild boys.

We’re all so grateful for the time that Daen and his son Robert spent with us and I can’t wait to go back again next year. I know there’s still lots to learn from both of them.

Taimen Leau, Yr 11, 2022 College Captain

CSSAQ Basketball

In week 2 of term 4 our college sent 5 teams off to CSSAQ Basketball which was held in North Brisbane. This was a great competition to cap off the basketball season with teams training from the start of term 2 with USL basketball starting this year. All teams showed huge improvement throughout the year and it showed at this competition. Well done to all who competed and the coaches for guiding the students throughout the year.

Rugby League

Friday week 2 we had our junior boys’ rugby league travel to Redcliff to take on some of the biggest schools in ruby league. Facing off against Stretton, Kelvin Grove and Redcliff, the boys performed well and gained some great experience from the day. We are looking forward to more great days like this in 2022.

Sports Awards

The sport awards are a celebration for the year of sport at the college. It is a great time to look back and acknowledge great improvement, outstanding performances and shine a light on the great that is becoming synonymous with Parklands Christian College. We had Michael Hancock speak to the students about making good choices in their life and tell some great stories from his time with the Broncos. We would also like to thank the staff for getting involved in sport this year, the students and sports department appreciate it. Thank you to the 2021 house captains, Hannah. Meagan. Matt and Charlotte for flying the flag for your respective teams and congratulations to SAMUEL house for taking out the House Champs Trophy this year in the tightest of finishes. Well done.

Our big award winners for the day went to 4 students with an outstanding effort over the year who took out the sportsperson’s of the year for 2021.

Nadine Bosanac
Justin Hunt

Hannah Takada
Levi Tomic

What’s on this Term

• Grade 3-6 Rugby League – Tuesdays 2.30-3.20
• Grade 4-6 Hit Kick Run – Thursdays 2.30-3.10
• Prep-3 NetSetGo – Tuesdays 2.30-3.10 (still places available)
• Primary CSSAQ Team Games – Monday the 1st of November
• Primary Sports Awards – Friday 12th of November

Bus Pass Information for 2022

Bus letter to parents back to school

Bus QLD Schools_

Bus Queensland Pty Ltd, in partnership with TransLink has bus runs that run to and from Parklands Christian College – information can be found on the website https://www.busqld.com.au/school )

Route 6013 (AM)

Route 6042 (AM)

Route 6055 (PM)

Route 6113 (PM)

Route 6142 (PM)

Route 6155 (PM)

School Transport Assistance Scheme

The Queensland Government offers financial assistance to parents of both state and non-state school students travelling to and from school daily by private arrangement. This is known as STAS (School Transport Assistance Scheme).

Please phone the Gold Coast office on 5630 8857 to clarify your eligibility. Alternatively you can visit their website http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/schooltransport

Term Dates 2022 final

School Fees

Are deducted from your bank account on the 17th unless received by the 10th of each month.

Please ensure funds are in your account one (1) business day before the 17th of the month.

Our Bank Account details are as follows:

BSB: 034115
Account Number: 169944

Please use your surname and initials as reference e.g. ‘J&C Smith’

Term Direct Debit Deduction Dates

• 17th February
• 17th April
• 17th July
• 17th September

Note: Direct Debits that reject from your account due to insufficient funds will incur a $10.00 fee and loss of discount. An additional late fee of $20 will apply to invoices outstanding at the end of the month.

Discounts Available

• Monthly 2%
• Term 5%
• Annual 8%

Tuckshop news

The tuckshop will be open EVERY day this year, Monday-Friday!

There is an opportunity for parents to contribute to the life of the school by volunteering their time in the tuckshop.

The tuckshop has been growing since moving to the new facility and with growth in sales we would really love your help!

Please contact our Tuckshop Convenor, Marie Rushin, on 0422 637 370 or email tuckshop@parklands.qld.edu.au

Tuckshop Menu 2021

Back to School Appointments 2022

WEEK 1: MONDAY 10/1/22 10.00am – 4.30pm, TUESDAY 11/1/22 10.00am – 4.30pm and THURSDAY 13/1/22 10.00am – 4.30pm.

WEEK 2: MONDAY 17/1/22 10.00am – 4.30pm, TUESDAY 18/1/22 10.00m – 4.30pm, WEDNESDAY 19/1/22 10.00m – 4.30pm  and THURSDAY 20/1/22 10.00am – 4.30pm.

To book an appointment please go to:

https://calendly.com/uniforms/uniform-back-to-school-appointments

1. Choose your date and time then click Confirm.
Please do not book more than 3 appointment time slots per family.

2. Enter your name, email address and contact phone number then click Schedule Event.

3. Your appointment time will be emailed to you automatically.
(Check your junk mail folder if you do not receive your email).

4. To Schedule another Event for additional times, repeat process

5. To Cancel or Reschedule appointments –  click on the link in your confirmation email.  .

Uniform Shop location and parking: 24 Hillcrest Rd, Park Ridge
(located on the left hand side, at the end of Hillcrest Road)

Also check our FB page for updates…
Uniform Shop Facebook Page/PCCUniforms

Purchase Uniforms Online
Uniforms can now be purchased online through QuickCliq.com.au