I S S U E 7 2 0 1 2

FAITH IN ACTION: PAGE4 TRANSITION MADE EASY: PAGE8 CORNERSTONES: PAGE12 LEARNING PATHWAYS: PAGE15

P 02 4959 9111 F 02 4959 9188 E office@charlton.nsw.edu.au

Email our Principal Sue Skuthorpe: principal@charlton.nsw.edu.au

Email Michelle if you would like to receive the College newsletters: michelle.thornton@charlton.nsw.edu.au

LIFE is the bi-annual publication produced for the families and wider community of Charlton Christian College.

Design Mezzanine-media www.mezzaninemedia.com.au

Editors Vicki Gunning and Michelle Thornton

Charlton Christian College 43 Fassifern Road Fassifern PO Box 605 Toronto NSW 2283

Welcome to Semester One, 2012. We hope this edition of LIFE captures our hearts for Charlton, our students, our community and our world. The College’s theme for this year is thankfulness. As we have compiled this edition of LIFE magazine (and as we look up the hill to our fabulous new multipurpose centre), it has become abundantly obvious to us that God is truly blessing this College and we need to remember to give thanks: 1 Thessalonians 5: 17-18 “Never stop praying. In everything give thanks. This is what God wants you to do because of Christ Jesus”.

Some of our articles in this edition highlight the plight of people less fortunate in our world and with some of our own Year 12 students currently on mission, experiencing life in the squatter areas of the Philippines, we are again reminded of the ‘culture’ of Charlton that we work hard to instil. This is a culture that has a service expectation and a culture of gratitude, a place where students grow up, not seeing the world as a place to be exploited for their own benefit, but instead a place to be cared for so that there is more justice and mercy in the world.

It’s good to be back and it’s great to be able to share with you our journey and some of the wonderful things that are happening here at Charlton. Thank you again to our sponsors Studio Six Photography for supporting this publication of LIFE.

We are always happy to receive your feedback. We’d love to hear from you by emailing us at marketing@charlton.nsw.edu.au

Vicki Gunning and Michelle ThorntonEditors

Welcome

03

Principal

“Leadership is about the art of influencing and directing people so that they work together willingly

to achieve the goals of the organisation

– its aspirations and vision. The most

effective leaders are servant leaders.”

The Role of a School Board

Team Manila, Easter 2012

In their book “Community Governance”, David Bartlett and Paul Campey see the School Board as the group who fulfil the governance responsibilities of the school and who have the authority and accountability for delivering the ministry vision, representing the moral (heart) owners and ensuring that the policy decisions of the Board are put into place by the school management.

Leadership is about the art of influencing and directing people so that they work together willingly to achieve the goals of the organisation – its aspirations and vision. The most effective leaders are servant leaders. This means that in leadership of others they actively assume responsibility for serving others in order to achieve the mission of the organisation. Leaders lead by example. Good leaders help to bring about change and look after people on the change journey.

At Charlton we are blessed to have on our Board a group of men and women who provide strong, servant leadership; who develop policies and guidelines for the operation of the College; and who ensure that legal and financial obligations are met. More than that, however, this Board provides strong spiritual leadership, ensuring that they pray for the school and its staff, regularly interceding on our behalf.

The Board meets on a regular basis to review the College’s progress and to ensure accountability. There is an annual Board Retreat day where the Board meets with the Executive staff to hear their vision for each ‘School’ and to share fellowship. This is the day where the Strategic Plan is revisited and reviewed.

As Principal, I attend the Board Meetings in an ex-officio capacity as does John Kroon our Business

Manager. We bring educational and financial reports to meetings but do not have voting rights. It is my responsibility as Principal to ensure that the Business Manager and the other College Executive implement the decisions of the Board.

We are truly blessed to have a Godly, wise and gracious group of people to lead our school, and we should thank God for them every day. Why not peruse the pages of LIFE Magazine where you will not only find very interesting information about how we ‘do’ life at Charlton, but you will also find some fascinating facts about our Board members.

In Christ’s exciting service

Sue SkuthorpePrincipal

College Executive Team

Our VisionCharlton Christian College aims to provide affordable Christian education which develops all students in a Godly way towards a perceptive, critical (discerning) and compassionate understanding of the society in which we live.

We aim to help our students to develop ‘wisdom’, which can be described as the ability to look at and respond to LIFE from God’s perspective. We believe that this is best achieved through grounding in the Word of God toward a lifestyle which expresses the values and attitudes contained in the Bible.

College CornerstonesLove Demonstrating God’s love within a merciful and just community.

Integrity Building character and excellence through courageous discipleship.

Faith Growing a people of hope, freedom and wisdom through confidence in the Work of Jesus Christ.

Empowerment Developing a body of passionate and radical Christians, ready to transform their world.

Our MissionCharlton Christian College will strive to provide Christ-focused education of excellence, within a positive, creative and caring community.

03 ISSUE SEVEN 2012

05 ISSUE SEVEN 2012

Faith in ActionIn the October school holidays last year I travelled with my wife, her parents and brother to Nakivale Refugee Camp in Uganda.

Our local church in Newcastle, the Grainery Christian Network, has a large congregation of African refugees, many of whom spent years in the Nakivale camp after fleeing their homelands. Each one of them fled war, rape and poverty, and, in the chaos of fleeing their countries, have left many friends and family behind. We visited the camp to meet with these friends and family, to bring encouragement and hope from Australia, and to work out how as Christians we can support those still waiting to be relocated out of the camp by the UN.

We were overwhelmed by the scale of the need in the camp. There, people survive on the barest of rations from the UN, build their own shelters, live in constant fear of each other and the crime that is prevalent in the camp, and are deeply scarred both physically and emotionally by the trauma they have endured in their home countries. One little girl we met had had her eye gouged out by rebel gangs during the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

By Asher MorrisonSchool Counsellor

“These women are

priceless and should be cherished, not bought, sold, abused and violated.

I am so grateful for

my freedom.”

By Michelle ThorntonAdministrative and Marketing Assistant

New Life

What did you find the hardest or most confronting thing about your time there?

Most of our time there was confronting. We were faced with some difficult and heart-breaking circumstances. It was incredibly hard to watch the masses of men using this ‘service’ and not feel anything except animosity towards them for what they were doing. We were literally confronted by one of the brothel owners one morning, which was very challenging. Most of all, I couldn’t wait to get away and yet found it so difficult to leave, knowing who has been left behind. These women are priceless and should be cherished, not bought, sold, abused and violated. I am so grateful for my freedom.

How did you cope emotionally with the things you saw and experienced?

I cried. I journalled. I cried some more. We prayed A LOT. We also had some time to debrief with team members after each outreach and before we left Greece, which was a huge help.

What did God teach you?

That despite the injustice in the world, God is a just God. We spent some time after Church on Sunday at Mars Hill (where Paul preached in Acts) overlooking the city of Athens. It looked beautiful, but I knew in my heart that what was going on down there wasn’t beautiful at all. I was encouraged and reassured that God sees into every heart and into every door. My heart breaks for what breaks His. He will judge accordingly. If I do my part, He will do His.

What can we pray for in regards to the ongoing work of Nea Zoi Mission?

For others to join their team and for financial support. We will be running Football for Freedom again this year to raise much needed funds for Nea Zoi. The money raised last year allowed Nea Zoi to employ two women over the Christmas period, which helped the women get off the streets and gave them a fresh start. We saw the outworking of that while we were there and cannot emphasise enough how much it helped those women and the hope it brought to others as well.

I am still trying to process the despair of all that we saw and as a church we are trying to pull together a response to help our African brothers and sisters. It is our intention to resource the churches in the camp to provide basic needs for those who are waiting, sometimes for decades, for relocation. We are currently looking at projects to provide school uniforms, sanitation and Bibles so that we can be faithful in our response to what God has shown us.

As James wrote in his letter in the New Testament, “Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:15-17)

How did it come about that you felt called to go to Greece on Mission?

My husband, Pete and I, had been planning to head overseas during the school holidays to visit family and enjoy a belated honeymoon. We were notified by International Teams that they were planning a mission trip to Greece around the same time, working with a group called ‘Nea Zoi’ (meaning New Life in Greek), who seek to support and rescue women who have been trafficked into prostitution. We soon realised that an opportunity had presented itself and the question stood, ‘Would we choose to take it?’

What did you do while you were there?

We visited the brothels of Athens, delivering Christmas gifts to the women, offering help, hope and freedom. As the male in the group, Pete and the other men offered prayer and protection for the women on the team, a much needed resource! Our team also visited the streets of Athens in the evening, aiming to connect with and help the large number of Nigerian women who have been trafficked there.

What did you enjoy most about your Mission experience?

My best friend, Annette has worked with Nea Zoi for the past 2 years. It was so great to spend time together and finally understand what she experiences on a daily basis.

We also had the privilege of meeting one of the prostitutes, ‘Sarah’. She had fallen pregnant and sought the help of Nea Zoi to find a shelter and a safe place to have her baby. Annette and I were able to take Sarah to her ultra-sound appointment to find out the sex of her baby and also to personally deliver a blanket made for her by Mrs Le Roux’s class. Sarah has since delivered a beautiful baby girl named Zanita, which means ‘God’s gift’. Little Zanita

By Mary CooperMiddle School Learning Support

By Cherie SnellgroveKindergarten Teacher/ Junior School Learning Support Co-ordinator

Worth their Weight in GoldiCan on an iPad

By Katrina SearleJunior School Learning Support

In our Bright Sparks class we love all kinds of toys. We have toys to ignite our imagination, refine our Literacy skills and stimulate creativity.

Last year we purchased some new and revolutionary toys. These soft and cuddly toys were designed in light of recent research on ‘Weighted Therapy’.

Weighted Therapy is an increasingly popular form of sensory therapy used to help children reduce stress. Research indicates that the use of weighted toys can have a tremendous affect on a child’s ability to concentrate and succeed, both academically and socially. It is proving to be a valuable method of reinforcing positive behaviours and decreasing negative behaviours.

In our Bright Spark classroom we have witnessed the calming affect our weighted toys are having on our students. A restless and busy child who is struggling to concentrate during activities can be seen to physically relax and become much more focused with the help of one of our cuddly weighted friends.

Our weighted toys are placed right at the front of the room. After introducing these toys in Term 1, it has been interesting to see that the children who benefit most from the weighted toys will automatically take a toy and place it on their laps before sitting on the mat.

Weighted toys are much loved in Bright Sparks. If you are having a restless day drop in and we will share our toys with you!

From Little ThingsBig Things Grow

“There have been many highlights

along the way

including the friendships formed and the lessons of tolerance and grace.”

It’s always a pleasure to see young people achieve and success takes many forms.Nine years ago, the inaugural NSW Under 14’s Boys Soccer Team travelled to Windsor to participate in the National Christian Titles as an ‘invitational team’.

The team was made up of players from Christian Schools and Colleges under the Taree, Hunter and Central Coast Christian Schools Australia banner. There were two students representing our College in that fifteen man squad, Adam Bannon and Ryan Cooper. The team wasn’t expected to be very competitive by the other states. It was touted that they “were there just to make up the numbers”. After a slow start they played their way into the Grand Final and won it! They were there for the gold, but what the organisers failed to inform their coach before the competition started was that as an invitational side they wouldn’t be awarded the Silverware.

It was a lesson in grace.

The competition continued to grow over the years and so did the number of Charlton students who represented NSW. Charlton has since produced Team Captains, Vice-Captains and two Club Captains. During these years of consolidation, players have grown up and completed their secondary education. While they may have left school they still continue to come back year after year to assist and support the State teams and our program.

2010 saw our NSW squad add an Under 18’s team to the competition and in 2011 we joined Hunter Christian Churches Football as their Junior

State team. 2011 was our biggest year yet with the addition of a girls’ team and 24 students from Charlton represented our College and State. Over the years, we have travelled across the country to Perth, Queensland and to New Zealand. We will travel again to Queensland later this year. Charlton students Jasmine Fielding, Shalea Townsend, Torey Burr, Kyall Allan, Jacob Tadic, Jake Fairhall and Ayrton Donegan were selected as part of the 2011 Australian All Stars Teams. Ashlea Randall, the Under 16’s Girls Vice-Captain was honoured with her selection as ‘Player of The Tournament’.

Charlton’s involvement started all those years ago from a vision and a desire by Michael Cossgrove, one of our Charlton teachers, to engage and disciple youth. It was his passion to lead students into the Kingdom of Christ through a shared love of football. Michael is currently the Coaching Director of the four State teams and Coach of the 18’s Men’s team. Another of our teachers, Ian Mathias, is the Under 16’s Boys Coach. Jenni Townsend, one of our parents, is the Girls’ Manager.

I have had the privilege to co-ordinate and serve our State coaches, players and families for the past six years, while also managing the senior team. There have been many highlights along the way including the friendships formed and the lessons of tolerance and grace. However, the absolute joy of buying a Bible for a young man or woman and watching them grow spiritually is the ultimate for me.

This is our mission field and through our passion for both football and youth, combined with our love for the Lord, we are truly blessed.

Why can’t eggs tell jokes? Because they crack each other up!

This is just one of the many jokes that crack Nicholas Goodwin up!

Unlike other kids, Nicholas wouldn’t be able to tell you this joke using his voice. He has a condition called Mosaic Trisomy (8p), and Agensis of the Corpus Collosum. Due to this condition Nicholas has numerous disabilities. He is virtually non-verbal with a very limited range of speech. Over the years, he has learnt basic sign language, how to use PECs (Picture Exchange Communication), and other alternative communication devices.

Recently, the school purchased an Apple iPad for Nicholas to use, with an App called Proloquo2Go. This App converts pictures to speech, allowing Nicholas to contribute verbally much more easily than before.

Nicholas enjoys using his iPad to tell his friends facts he has learnt during quiet reading time. Recently, Nicholas had to present an exposition to his Year 3 class, and with the assistance of the Proloquo2Go App, chose to convince his peers that they also need to own an iPad!

Nicholas now enjoys helping to lead Junior School Assemblies and present news. He also loves to visit other classes and the Executive Staff in their offices, to tell them jokes! Nicholas’ new technology also allows him to actively participate in classroom discussions, by asking and answering questions. He is able to greet his friends and tell them about the great things he did on the weekend. The iPad is very user-friendly and Nicholas is finding it easy to navigate, making communication so much easier for him.

“Since introducing Nicholas to the iPad it has simplified our everyday life at home as well as school. Nicholas is more confident to express his thoughts to his peers, and has become great at sharing stories!” (Michelle Goodwin, Nicholas’ mother)

07 ISSUE SEVEN 2012

TransitionMade Easy

By Fraser Hannam Head of Middle School

Remember that annoying child at school who used to hum next to you all the time, tap her pen on the desk and carve her initials in your pencil box when you weren’t watching? There wasn’t anything wrong with her – she was a CAPATRACK girl! Remember that boy who just could not sit still? He was always touching you, fiddling with your stuff and throwing things across the room? He didn’t have a learning disorder – he was a SPORTRACK kid! Then there was the student who enjoyed pulling your microscope apart ‘to improve it’ (while you were trying to use it). They loved Mathematics, Science and were far happier interacting with a computer than having to make conversation with a human? They weren’t some form of new life-form, they were THINKTRACK students!

Students are not only born with different gifts and abilities but more importantly, diverse ways of learning. The traditional curriculum does not always affirm these differences much less release students into their areas of passion. Conventional education has become largely negative, disengaging and an unsuccessful time for many students who didn’t manage to ‘fit’ with a curriculum oriented towards numeracy/literacy alone. Consequently, those students who fail in these areas feel that they are not intelligent nor gifted enough to contribute to society.

Christian education should seek to dispel the ‘factory metaphor’ of the school by providing a curriculum that is responsive to the developmental needs of young adolescents and engages them in God’s world. This idea that not all children learn in the same way is best captured by the theory of Multiple Intelligences developed by Howard Gardner. The question then shifts from, “is my child intelligent?” to “how is my child intelligent?”

This is where the SMARTRACK Program comes into its own. Rather than suppressing a child’s natural desire to learn the way they are ‘wired’ and force them to engage with the traditional curriculum, the SMARTRACK Program identifies teachers with particular ‘learning styles’ who then structure a class where this learning approach

Charlton Christian College has long recognised the significant developmental stage of the Middle School student and as such, continues to provide learning environments that promote successful and resilient learners.We recognise that most students have a positive transition from Junior School to Middle School but it can also be a time of insecurity and anxiety.

As part of an exciting new initiative, Charlton Christian College is pioneering an action research project, utilising funds allocated through a government grant, to further ensure the smooth transition of Junior School students to Middle School.

An action research project encourages us to take a healthy look at the transition process we have in place, to reflect upon our measures of success and to identify areas for improvement. Central to the success of the project is intentional communication with the school community as we continue to value and forge strong partnerships between parents and the school.

Students, staff and parents have been surveyed, to provide feedback on current practices and will be surveyed again next year to measure the effectiveness of steps implemented. Evidence gathered through observation and surveys will be integral in the decision-making process when planning activities that affect student wellbeing.

Whilst students enjoy a range of orientation and transition activities leading up to their move to Middle School, staff are excited about enhancing these strategies to assist students with physical, social, intellectual, emotional and spiritual concerns and to ensure appropriate pastoral care is provided to support the transition process.

One aspect of the transition process will be the implementation of the Buddy Mentoring Program. Current Year 5 students will receive training and experience in mentoring others to allow them to help build positive and meaningful relationships with the current Year 4 students. This will culminate in a ‘Meet Your Buddy Day’ including a barbecue lunch!

Other activities include the production of ‘An Introduction to Middle School’ DVD and newsletter which will be made by students in Stage 3 for new Middle School students. Students will participate in Orientation Day within the Middle School environment and a Year 4 and Year 5 combined disco will be held. Parents will be invited to Information Nights to share the Middle School vision.

The school will create a ‘Transition to Middle School Policy’ which will formalise current practices and be available as a useful guide for other schools. It is envisaged that this project will be ongoing to ensure that we continue to make positive steps to best cater for student well-being as children progress through the College.

“If a child is not learning the way you are teaching, then you must teach in the way the child learns.” Rita Dunn

infuses all subjects and aspects of the classroom. Then, rather than isolate and reform students we put them all together into a class of like-minded peers partnered by a teacher similarly ‘wired’ who (possibly for the first time) thoroughly understands the students; what they like, what motivates them and how to bring out the best in them.

The SMARTRACK program has been a major factor in the growth and development of our Middle School and has driven the growth of the whole College. We have had a good measure of success with this program and it has gone a long way towards making school more engaging, enjoyable and meaningful for our Middle School students. It has also provided a stimulating framework for teachers to implement pedagogy that aligns more consistently with the middle schooling philosophy. We have seen both teachers become more motivated about their work and students more motivated about their learning.

Currently the Charlton Middle School has 4 different ‘styles of learning’ across our 9 classes.

Still on the Right TRACK

By Tracey HartgersMiddle School Teacher

Junior School 2012

Middle School 2013

SPORTRACKStudents are usually good at:

- Dancing- Sports and athletics

- Shaping and sculpting- Obstacle Courses

- Making and Fixing things

THINKTRACKStudents are usually good at:

- Problem solving and puzzles- Mathematics and numbers- Strategic games and codes- Fact finding and collecting- Building and manipulating

CAPATRACKStudents are usually good at:

- Composing music- Performing music for a group

- Drawing and painting- Creating and understanding films

- Making constructions and models

ECOTRACKStudents are usually good at:

- Looking after a pet- Exploring the natural environment- Reusing, reducing and recycling

- Gardening- Fishing

ISSUE ONE 200911

Life at CharltonThe place where something wonderful is always happening!

ISSUE SEVEN 201211

“Here I met my Grandad for the very

first time. He is 90 years

old and he is blind. When I sat next to

him he would touch my face and hold my

hand to know that I was

next to him.”

Family Reunion

CornerstonesWe asked some of our Junior School students about our College Cornerstones and whether they could describe what the words mean. Some of the answers were quite interesting!

By Crystal ChappellI.T Support

What does the word empowerment mean?

You have power to run really fast like a horse. Riley, Year 1

It means the people who run the world. Jade, Bright Sparks

It means you have super powers. Lilly, Clever Kindies

To inspire. Wade, Year 4

EMPOWERMENT

What do you think it means to have integrity?

To be honest and not tell lies. It might be hard, but try to do it. Daphne, Year 3

I think my mum might have it. She might know. Sam, Year 1

Truth inside you. James, Year 4

To be kind and really nice to other people and having faith to do what’s right. Grace, Year 4

INTEGRITYWhen you hear the word love, what do

you think of?

I think of God, family and friends. Erin, Year 4

Happy things. Hugging. Alexandra, Year 3

It means someone really likes you.

Lilian, Clever Kindies

People who love each other, like you love your Mum

and Dad. Rowan, Year 3

Love is going to school. I love school

Harrison, Bright Sparks

LOVE

What is faith?

Like when a baby knows he is safe and knows

the grown up not going to drop him.

Lachlan, Year 3

Faith is believing in something, like God and you

can trust them with all your heart. Holly, Year 4

It’s a choice to believe in God. Jack, Year 4

It’s when you believe in Jesus and go the way he

tells you to. Amy, Year 2

It means to trust. Georgia, Year 4

When you’re loving God. Erin, Year 2

FAITH

On the 8th of December I went to the Philippines with my mum to visit her family. It had been about 10 years since my Mum had seen her family and for me, it was the first time I had ever met them. As soon as we came out of the airport I noticed how hot it was and I was immediately struck by how different their culture is to ours. We were picked up at the airport by my cousin, June with her husband and son. After spending two nights in Manila, we took a plane to Iloilo, followed by a two hour drive to Dingle, where my family lives.

There were many rice fields and sugar cane fields. Most of the people’s houses we saw were small bamboo walled houses with concrete or dirt floors, some as small as our living room at home. My family has a very big lot in Dingle and there are four houses on it. My Granddad, Auntie, four cousins and all of their families live here together. The place was always very noisy with the children playing.

Here, I met my Granddad for the very first time. He is 90 years old and he is blind. I could not understand him because I didn’t speak the dialect; Tagalog or Ilonggo.

We stayed at my Aunt’s house. She has a small basic home, with two bedrooms, a kitchen and a tiny room for both the shower and toilet. There is also a lounge room, though half of it is used as my Grandad’s bedroom. There were already six people living in my Aunt’s house. My cousin allowed Mum and I share to share the bed in her room.

There is no running water so for the shower and any laundry we had to pump the water from the ground into a bucket.

During meal times we always sat on the floor in the lounge room so we could spend time with my Grandad, as he eats in bed.

The lifestyle was very relaxed as there was no routine to follow. It was a far cry from life back in Australia and my work at Charlton. I spent a lot of time going on walks and exploring the town with my Mum and Aunt. I saw how different their culture was compared to ours.

When we first arrived I had been excited, though also scared of being in a place I didn’t know. For the first few days it was very hard to adjust. I now think back on my trip with such fondness. I really enjoyed spending time with my family although it was very difficult to communicate with everyone because their English was not very good. The most exciting thing, but also the hardest, was meeting my Grandad for the first time. I was unhappy that I could see him and he could not see me. We couldn’t really have any conversations either without my Mum translating for us. When I sat next to him he would touch my face and hold my hand to know that I was next to him.

Saying goodbye to our family was difficult for me, but more so for my Mum. Two weeks wasn’t long enough for us and we want to go back and see everyone soon. We miss them all very much.

life

ISSUE SEVEN 201213

Open DoorsLearning Pathways

One of the exciting features of studying for the HSC at Charlton is the flexibility and opportunity that it allows. Students can complete a “traditional” style HSC where all subjects are studied at school, or they can be involved in a program that allows them to study some subjects at school while undertaking TAFE courses, distance education courses or work traineeships.

Year 11 and 12 students may attend TAFE courses on a Monday or Wednesday afternoon. These courses are provided by a number of local institutes. Currently Charlton students are involved in Desktop Publishing, Hairdressing Salon Skills, Beauty Therapy, Metal and Engineering, Health Services Assistant, Business Services and Information Technology courses.

In the past students have excelled in Tourism and Hospitality and 2011 saw students Ashley Copp and Zac Saunders receive apprenticeships as a result of their TAFE course and School Based Traineeships.

For the last 18 months Brooke O’Kane has undertaken a school based traineeship- Certificate III Human Services (Health Services Assistant). This has involved her attending TAFE one afternoon a week and working at Maitland Hospital one day a week. As Brooke wishes to study Medicine in the future it has given her an ideal opportunity to experience the career she is interested in. The time spent at the hospital has been invaluable and has increased her passion to work in a medical field.

Meet theCollege Board

Sue Moffitt

I am a retired/casual Primary School teacher, married with three children with one, almost two grandchildren. My youngest child is in Year 12. I live near Blackbutt Reserve and enjoy its central location and the mix of bush and shops nearby. I have been associated with Charlton from its foundation as an Early Childhood adviser, then company member, then director. Currently, I am leading an Alpha course at my church and feel really blessed to be there when people move deeper in their faith. Joy comes from seeing people discover and use their gifts and passions for the benefit of others.

Lyndall Pascoe

I am a wife, mother of two and grandmother of six (who are a delight and keep both my husband and I busy). Currently I lead a home group, mentoring young women to move in their God given gifts.

As a graduate teacher I have had experience in both government and Christian schools. As a foundation teacher at Charlton (then called, Lake Macquarie Christian College), I established the Visual Arts and Design and Technology facilities. I remember well the staffroom being a shipping container. It was extremely hot in summer!!! The art room had no taps or sinks, so water was carried by buckets. It has been a privilege being a part of the development of the College and I am thrilled at the wonderful facilities God has provided for the children who are cared for in this special place.

Bruce Evans

I am the newest board member with just 12 months experience. I have two children at Charlton in Years 8 and 10. When Vanessa and I enrolled Hugh 9 years ago there were only 165 students at the school and very few permanent buildings. However, we recognised a school with a vision and a heart for the Lord.

We live in Fishing Point and attend Toronto Baptist Church. We are part of a home Bible study group and help with the Missions Committee and Sunday School. I moved to the area to work as a mechanical engineer in power stations but I have since transferred to the steel industry. I enjoy sailing, walking the dog and relaxing.

John Hickey

My family moved from Sydney more than 10 years ago with a dream to contribute to this community. We have been passionately committed to Charlton ever since our boys started here in 2002. Tracey served for two years as President of the Parents’ Association. I have had the privilege of serving on the Board since 2003.

I have been GM and CEO of various financial institutions, and since 2010 I have had the amazing opportunity working as CEO of Baptist World Aid Australia, to help transform communities out of poverty in sixteen countries across the world. Tracey teaches Maths at Hunter Christian School and we are both members of Thrive Church in Rathmines, where I am the Treasurer. We love the team at Charlton and their tremendous impact on the kids and families.

Rod Gray

Our family lives at Brunkerville (near Mulbring), where we moved about ten years ago from Sydney. We have five children, the oldest being married with three children. Three of our children have attended, or are attending Charlton. The College has played an important part in our lives. I was born and grew up in Singleton and went to Sydney to attend University, gaining Engineering and Commerce degrees. I also lived in Canberra for ten years and worked in the Public Service. I now work as a Telecommunications Consultant, undertaking a lot of projects for NSW Government agencies.

As a “hobby” I continue to hold the position of Pastor at a small Church in Sydney CBD, and have an interest in supporting Christian activities within the local community. I praise God for places like Charlton, and feel called to do what I can to help in the governance of the College. I currently serve as Board Chair.

By Chantal Casey Head of Senior School

Laura Casey has also undertaken a school based traineeship in Business Services. Rather than attending TAFE, Laura studies the course via Distance Education. At the start of each year the course materials are mailed and Laura works through a series of CD’s and booklets and uploads assignments via the internet. Part of the traineeship involves completing a certain number of practical hours over the two years. Laura has undertaken her work placement in the Charlton office, which has allowed her to develop a wide range of office and interpersonal skills.

Zachary Parker is a Year 11 student. He has been awarded a Scholarship by Port Waratah Coal to undertake training as part of his HSC course. Zachary is the youngest person to receive such a scholarship. He is excited at the work option and TAFE course. It also provides him with invaluable industry experience for when he finishes his HSC.

The examples mentioned above are all courses that count toward, not only their HSC, but their ATAR (university entrance rank). Mrs Anne Duquemin is the College Careers coordinator and excellently manages all the TVET courses. In the years that Charlton has been offering a variety of pathways the number of students opting for TVET courses has continued to grow. In the highly evolving work world that students are being thrust into, the opportunity to study and work in relevant, often IT based courses, provide students with an advantage as they leave the safe bounds of school and venture into an adult world of work.

Sue Moffitt

Lyndall Pascoe

Bruce Evans

Rod Gray

John Hickey

In the highly evolving work world that students

are being thrust into, the opportunity to study

and work in relevant, often IT based courses, provide students with an advantage as they

leave the safe bounds of school and venture into an adult world of work.

ISSUE SEVEN 201215

A great woman once

told me, ‘you are not your marks.’

In my work as a child psychologist I am well aware that there are children who are born with a genetic disposition that makes socialising difficult. Children with Asperger’s Syndrome and other autistic spectrum disorders do have structural and functional differences in their brain which makes socialising quite difficult. However, I believe that all children, regardless of being on the autistic spectrum or not, are able to improve their set of social skills with the right level of teaching and opportunity.

So let me provide you with some pointers that can help your child develop a good set of social skills.

Firstly, if your child is shy, or introverted, or even has a diagnosis of Asperger’s Disorder, don’t let that stop you from encouraging them to socialise! All kids want friends. And I’ve noticed that in terms of friends, there seems to be someone out there for everyone. I would encourage you to look at providing plenty of opportunities for your child to develop good friendships. Enrol them in a sports club, take them to a youth group, have friends over with similar interests to your child. Often kids who struggle to make friends will make friends when they least expect it, just by spending time doing something that they love with other people. I’ve lost count of how many kids I know with social problems who have ended up with a best mate just by learning how to tie knots and use a compass at Scouts each week.

Secondly, if your kid is struggling to make or keep friends, take the time to do a bit of social coaching with them. Point out to them that their tone of voice comes across as sarcastic. Explain that only talking about yourself will make kids get bored with you very quickly.

It seems to me that social skills were not something that we really spoke about a few years ago. Some people were just shy, or odd, while others were friendly and confident. I still think that this is the case but it seems that the idea of possessing a set of skills which we use for socialising with others is a recent development. And I think that this idea of each of us having an individual set of social skills is a good approach to take.

Practice these skills at home in a fun way. If your child struggles with eye contact, tell them to look at your nose. If your child only talks about dinosaurs teach them to ask good questions about other people’s interests. If your child doesn’t seem to notice when their friend has had enough show them how to read body language and facial expressions.

Some kids pick up these social skills innately, but others need coaching. So help your kids by adding to their social skill set.

Thirdly, model good social skills yourself. If you want your child to go and play at their friend’s house, or not spend as much time on the computer, or shake someone’s hand and introduce themselves when they meet someone for the first time, then make sure that you’re modelling those behaviours to them. In almost every case where I’ve worked with a family with a child with poor social skills the apple hasn’t fallen too far from the tree. Even if it’s hard for you, model what you would like your children to copy.

Lastly, I understand that in some cases a child’s diagnosis makes progress in these areas slow. And for children with an Autistic Disorder diagnosis there are unique challenges in teaching your child good social skills or enough to get by in day to day life. In this case I would recommend that you follow up with a professional. There is no shortage of counsellors, psychologists and support services that are happy to help you in up-skilling your child’s social abilities.

What have you been doing since you left Charlton?Not being an academic person I decided UNI wasn’t for me, so I tried my hand at a few retail jobs. After a few years I decided that wasn’t where my skills and passions were best suited. So, at the beginning of this year I decided to enter an Internship year with Youth for Christ. This is a movement of people sold out on seeing all young people in Australia have the opportunity to become followers of Jesus! As part of this Internship I’m also studying a Cert IV in Youth Ministry and Theology through the Australian College of Ministries. While the study is a bit of a pain at times, I love working with young people, and really believe that God has put me here for this season of my life for a reason. I’m loving it!!

Where do you see yourself in five years?

As I said before it was during my time at Charlton that I decided I wanted a career as a musician. In search of this I am now in a band called ‘Skyepoint’. It has myself on drums, Tim Hickey (past Charlton student) on guitar, Joel Speechly (also past Charlton student) on bass and Liv Gritten as our lead vocals. We are a bunch of Christians who love playing music and hope to do it as a job one day. Hopefully the next 5 years will see that happening.

If that doesn’t work out then I have no idea where God will put me, but I’ll have fun finding out.

What advice would you give to current students?

A great woman once told me, “you are not your marks”. Don’t think that you need to be at the top of your class and get 100% in all your tests to succeed in life. Just set goals for yourself; short-term and long-term life goals and do what you need to do to get there. You are never too young to have a future career and life plans!

Any final thoughts?

In the words of Mr Feeney, “Respect God, your parents and the dirt” or is it soil?

How would you describe your years at Charlton?

For a lot of teenagers school is one of the things that they would rather do anything else in the world than go to, and if I’m being honest, I wasn’t much different at the time. However, I certainly wouldn’t be the person I am today without Charlton. I now look back on my days at Charlton as some of the best years of my life!

What’s one of your fondest memories?

Playing guitar and singing ‘Save Tonight’, by Eagle Eye Cherry, with Richard Wilkinson in a talent night at one of our school camps. This was also the night I decided I wanted to have a career as a musician. I’m still working on that.

How did Charlton impact your relationship with Christ?

I had very little knowledge of any type of spirituality before coming to Charlton. I even refused to let my mum cover my school books in this awesome alien and UFO contact for fear of getting in trouble. Now I have my own personal relationship with God and it was the relationships with students that I made at Charlton that led me to become a Christian after finishing school. Needless to say Charlton had a huge impact on my relationship with Jesus.

What significant relationships eventuated out of your time at Charlton?

One of my favourite memories is my very first day at what was then Lake Macquarie Christian College. I was walking across the ‘top oval’, being escorted to my first class and told that my ‘buddy’ (who was being forced to befriend the new kid and show him around) was a kid called Adam Bannon. Little did I know I was just about to be introduced to someone who would become one of my best friends for life. I think this was because I had a Bulldogs pencil case, which happened to be his favourite NRL team. I just liked the colours. I also started going to Thrive Church after becoming a Christian because of the relationships I had with people from Charlton. I even just made the big step of moving out of home and am now housemates with another one of my best mates from Charlton, Ben Gray.

Looking Back with Tom Bofinger(ex-student)

In RetrospectBy Asher MorrisonCollege Counseller

Parenting MattersDo you need to socially coach your child?

ISSUE SEVEN 201217

Cricket Coordinator of the Year! By Vicki Gunning

Our Year 4 teacher and Junior School Sport Coordinator, Pete Lalor has been named the Newcastle in2CRICKET Coordinator of the Year for his work in establishing a Centre for over 50 kids.

Recognising Peter’s dedication and commitment to engaging the children and delivering a high quality in2CRICKET Program, the award was presented at the end of Term 1, at the conclusion of the 10 week program.

Now having use of their fabulous new oval, Charlton commenced the in2CRICKET program this year. Many children, both girls and boys, joined in the program which took place on a Thursday afternoon.

Former NSW and Australian leg-spinner, Bob Holland, who is the President of the local cricket club, Southern Lakes Juniors, was at the presentation when Mr Lalor received the award. He invited all of the kids to get involved in junior cricket next summer.

Pete Lalor was surprised, yet thrilled, to receive the award and particularly the cricket bats signed by top players such as Michael Clarke, Brett Lee, Simon Katich, Shane Watson and Stuart Clark. He is looking forward to running the clinic again next year.

So you think you can dance? Morgan Wynne

When did you start dancing?

I started dancing at 5 years of age at Morisset, at a local dance school.

What were you like when you first started?

I was terrible! I could dance and liked dancing, but I didn’t want to do tap and didn’t like it. In fact, I hated it. When I was 12 or 13 I switched to tap at Renae Perry’s dance school. Now I love it.

What have you achieved so far?

The Tap Pups performed at the Opening of the Master’s Games and at a friend’s school last year. We also opened the Sydney V8 Supercars a few years ago and have done a few charity events, including the Starlight Foundation.

I’m now doing Grade 8 in Glenwood Tap and have always achieved above 90 in all of my exams, which is a High Distinction.

What’s your best memory?

Getting 96% in one of my exams, which is only one mark off from a Gold Award. I wasn’t the greatest at dance in general, or good at exams, so when I achieved that mark, it felt awesome.

What are your goals for the next few years?

My goal is to get better and keep getting higher results. I’m aiming to get to a special Teacher’s Grade, which is after Grade 10. I would love to eventually become a Tap Dog and perform in front of big crowds and I would really love to teach tap as a job.

What’s your favourite style of music to dance to?

I like different types of music and try to dance to everything.

What’s the hardest thing about performing?

I think it’s the nerves, but once you’re on stage and start performing they go.

What’s one piece of advice you can give to others who are considering dance or wanting to achieve a personal goal?

Go for it and see how you like it. I do two classes at the moment, one with all guys and my grade class which is a mix of girls and guys. Don’t take it so seriously at first, try to relax and enjoy it. Don’t stop. I’m not the best, but I’m still aspiring to be as good as others. It’s a good thing to have goals. Dance also helps with balance and coordination, which can be a benefit for playing sport.

Who would you say has played an integral part in your achievements so far?

My Mum and Nan have. They pushed me to do dance. They are also really supportive and want the best for me in everything. If it wasn’t for them, I probably wouldn’t have even tried. Until I went to Renae Perry’s school and also to Charlton, I didn’t have a lot of peer support and found it difficult. Here, my mates are really supportive that I dance and think it’s cool.

Charlton’s on facebookSearch for us and like our page!

HOW CYBERSMART ARE YOU? Take this quiz to find out!

• Do you know how to check the Internet history on your computer? Even if it

has been erased?

• Do you know what torrent files are? Do your children use them? How would

you know if they were? (A recent investigation revealed that around half of

ISP iinet’s traffic was through the BitTorrent protocol.)

• Do you know how to monitor your child’s Internet use on their DS, iPod or

mobile phone?

• Do you know how to use the parental controls on your gaming console?

• Did you know that using Facebook apps can provide third parties with

access to your information? Do you know how to change the privacy

setting on Facebook? If your child is on Facebook, are you their friend?

(69% of parents are).

Be in the loop!To learn more about cybersafety, and to stay informed with what is happening at Charlton, including the recent trip to Manila, check out our blog at http://www.charltonblogs.blogspot.com/

Visit Charlton on Facebook at www.facebook.com/charltonchristiancollege and press Like.

All WelcomePlease phone the College on 02 4959 9111 for further information.

43 Fassifern Road, Fassifern NSW 2283www.charlton.nsw.edu.au

Term 3 Information EveningsSenior School ParentInformation Night Tuesday 31st July, 7.00pmfor Year 8 students commencing Year 9 in 2013

Middle School ParentInformation NightsTuesday 11th September, 7.00pmfor Year 4 students commencing Middle School in 2013

Tuesday 18th September, 7.00pm for Year 6 students commencing Year 7 in 2013

Charlton Christian College Open DayFriday 24th August, 9.30am – 12noon Open Classrooms and Tours of the College

Visit our new facilities

Speak with members of the College Executive

Morning Tea available