Term 1 Week 2 Newsletter

Leadership Insights

After two full weeks, I am delighted to reflect on what has been an exciting start to the 2025 Academic Year!

Our students have returned with a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm for the year ahead. They’ve shown great eagerness to engage with school life and reconnect with their friends. It’s been a pleasure to see our new students, including all of our Year 7s, settling in so well and adapting quickly to their new surroundings.

As part of our ongoing commitment to providing clear expectations and guidelines, we are currently reviewing our policies and procedures. As a result, we have decided to postpone the Parent Information Evening scheduled for Monday, 10 February 2025.

In the meantime, we would like to remind Year 11 and 12 parents that the Developing Minds parent seminar will be held at the College on Monday, 17 February 2025, from 5.30 pm to 6:30 pm. This seminar will give parents insight into supporting  their senior students to feel calm, confident, cooperative, and resilient to face challenges.

As always, it is a privilege to serve our community. With such a positive start to the year, I am excited about the journey ahead. I look forward to working together to strengthen our connections and uphold our commitment to creating a Christ-centred learning environment where everyone can flourish.

Welcome & God bless!

Jane Talamaivao Principal

Train up a child in the way she/he should go; even when she/he is old, she/he will not depart from it.     Proverbs 22:6

Welcome to the 2025 academic year at Prescott College. I am honoured to serve our community as Deputy Principal this year. As we embark on this educational journey with your children, I hope for our shared growth and support during both joyful and challenging moments. We recognize that our students are at the heart of our mission, and we are dedicated to fostering meaningful teaching and learning relationships.

Our goal is to engage students' minds, stimulate critical thinking, and support them in realising their full potential. To facilitate a successful partnership, it is essential that we have clear guidelines, policies, and mutual expectations in place. Our staff is committed to creating enriching learning opportunities that encourage our students to thrive and cultivate a lifelong love of learning, achieved in collaboration with both students and their families.

Parents play a crucial role in nurturing their children within their family values and in building a supportive partnership with the school. To optimise your child's success, please ensure they understand our rules and expectations, and provide them with the necessary uniform, stationery, textbooks, and laptops. Additionally, establishing healthy boundaries regarding device usage, particularly by removing devices from bedrooms at bedtime, can mitigate issues related to social media and promote better sleep habits. Ensuring students are organised with the correct uniform and morning and afternoon routines will aid their daily preparedness.

We encourage fostering a positive outlook to help protect your child from negativity. We ask that students adhere to school rules, comply with teacher instructions, engage actively in their learning, complete homework assignments, enjoy their educational experience, build positive relationships, and embody our core values of Respect, Integrity and Joy.

For 2025, please note the following updates:

The College will no longer distribute non-prescription medication. Our hat policy requires students to wear hats both indoors and outdoors during recess and lunch. Hats must be clearly labelled with the student's name. If a student is not wearing a hat, they will receive one reminder and then will be sent to Room C or the Library. Continued non-compliance will result in detention. Additionally, students are not permitted to share hats. Further, please ensure that all details including medical, change of address, telephone and emails have been updated on consent2go.

Thank you for your continued support and collaboration as we work together for the benefit of our students.

Mr Hamilton Deputy Principal

Prescott News

Visit from the Governor of South Australia, the Honorable Frances Adamson AC

Governor of South Australia Motivates Future Leaders at Prescott College Prospect

Prescott College was thrilled to host Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, as part of her initiative to connect with high school students statewide. This visit provided a unique opportunity for Prescott College students to share their aspirations and concerns, while receiving encouragement in their pursuit of their goals.

During a Q&A session led by College Captain Maddison Meza, Her Excellency answered questions regarding her role, her previous work experiences, and the highlights of her position. She also offered valuable advice on engaging in Social Justice and Civics.

In an informal discussion with student leaders and the Student Representative Council (SRC), Her Excellency challenged students to think about leadership both now and in the future.

This inspiring visit emphasised the importance of leadership and civic engagement among the next generation!

Meet Our College Captain and Student Leaders of 2025

Hi I'm Maddie and I have been blessed with the important role of College Captain for 2025.

Firstly, I would like to thank all of you for your support. I am definitely looking forward to this year, as I feel it is going to be a great year for our Prescott College community to grow and connect with each other, and again, I am very grateful that I get to be a part of that. 

Additionally, I would like to congratulate Sienna, Arezou and Tanner for also receiving a student leader position and I'm excited to work with you this year. 

I'd like to thank God for blessing me with this opportunity. I have had great captains to look up to last year and it is a great honour to have them pass the badge on to me. 

I will do right by the school, because Prescott College deserves a great Captain and that is what I strive to be. With God's help and your help, we can all make 2025 a great year for everyone.

Thank you again, Prescott College for your support and this opportunity.

Maddie Meza Yr 12 College Captain

Chaplain's Corner

Welcome back to the start of a new year. It is a blessing to think that this is my third year working as one of Prescott College’s school chaplains this year.

Sometimes people come up with a theme for their new year. Is that something you do? This year, Pastor Tim, Pastor Mal and myself, have come up with a theme for our spiritual focus. In Term one we are focussing on “beloved;” Term two will be ‘belong;’ Term three ‘believe’ and then finally in Term four, it will be ‘become.’ The overall theme of the year is ‘be.’ The word be means to, “exist,”  or to, “occur.” You are a part of our Prescott Community. You exist. Your life is precious. God wants you “to be.” He wants you to be happy, be at peace, and be joyful. If you want to truly experience these things, the place to start is to know that you are His beloved child. When it comes to God, it always starts and ends with His love. The most quoted verse in the Bible says so clearly: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Even if you can’t feel it, or see it, the truth is, you are loved. May each day of your existence this year give you constant reminders that you are His beloved child. As you contemplate, may His love, peace and joy help you to simply ‘be.’

Krissie Hopkins Chaplain

Key Dates to Remember

15 February - Dedication Service

Each year, at the beginning of the school year, our Prescott Primary and Prescott College communities come together at Para Vista Church for a special dedication service. 

Join us this year on Saturday 15th February, from 10:00am at Para Vista Church - 308 Nelson Rd, Para Vista

This gathering is a time to pray and express our gratitude to Jesus for opportunities to learn, grow, and support one another. We lift up our teachers, students, and families in prayer, asking for wisdom, guidance, and strength throughout the year. May this time of worship and reflection inspire us to work together in faith, kindness, and love as we embark on another school journey. We welcome all families to join us in this special morning of worship.

17 February - Information Evening 

We invite parents of Year 11s and Year 12s on Monday 17th February at 5:30pm, to an informative session featuring a psychologist from "Developing Minds", who will discuss strategies for ensuring student success in their final year/s of high school. This session will provide valuable insights into the academic, emotional, and social challenges students may face, along with practical guidance on how parents can support their child’s well-being and achievement. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert advice and learn how to help your child navigate this crucial stage with confidence. 

Students will also be attending Developing Minds sessions throughout the year.

Camp Information

Outdoor Education camp will be held in Week 4 for Year 7s, 9s and 10s. Year 8s will be going at a later date in Term 4. 

You will receive information about your child's camp from the Camp Co-ordinators.

Year 7 Camp -Camp co-ordinator - Miss Moukachar

Location and dates: Willow Creek , Monday 17th February -  Wednesday 19th February. 

Students will have a rest day on Thursday 20th, returning back to school on Friday 21st February.

Year 9 Camp - Camp co-ordinator - Mr Lozada

Location and dates: West Beach Discovery Parks,  Monday 17th February - Thursday 20th February. 

Students will have a rest day on Friday 21st February.

Year 10 Camp - Camp co-ordinator - Mr Beebe

Location and dates: Lower Glenelg North, Monday 17th February - Friday 21st February.

Scholarship Opportunities

MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

The music scholarship is a prestigious scholarship awarded to a small number of students at Prescott College who have shown excellence and dedication to music. This scholarship offers a 25% discount that is automatically deducted from their school fees for 4 terms starting in Term 2, for those students who have been successful in their application. This scholarship is awarded to students who can show a high level of skill and performance with an instrument of their choice (including voice). Students can use an accompanying track for their performance but they must perform a solo performance. 

The application process for 2025 is as follows: 

1. Prepare a performance piece that will be used to audition in front of a small audience. This piece can be performed in your chosen instrument, including voice and should display a high level of skills and musical ability. The performance for this will be at Week 5 - Friday, February 28, 2025. 
2. Answer questions regarding your musical background as well as other performances that you have been involved in as well as commitment to the music program at Prescott College. 
3. Answer questions about what your musical performance goals will be for 2025 

Students who are successful in receiving a scholarship will need to make sure that:

1. They have chosen music as an elective (Year 7 - 10 only) and are maintaining a C grade or higher for the semester 
2. They are available for performances for Showcase, School concerts and at least one church visit with Prescott College 
3. They contribute to Chapel Band and have chosen to do a musical component during Skillset (this can either in vocals, an instrumentalist, or sound/PA)

The music scholarship does not automatically roll over from the previous year. All students are required to go through the audition process (even if they have received the scholarship from previous years), if they would like to be considered for this opportunity. Please understand the ongoing commitments required in order to maintain this scholarship. 

Kevin Lozada Music Teacher

PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS

Unlock your child's musical potential - Enrol in private music lessons!

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP

Our school is committed to recognising and nurturing academic excellence by offering scholarships to students who demonstrate outstanding academic potential. These scholarships provide financial assistance and opportunities for students to thrive in a supportive and enriching learning environment. We are pleased to announce that scholarship applications are now open for students commencing in 2026, allowing new students to benefit from our high-quality education and comprehensive programs. By investing in the success of our students, we aim to inspire a passion for learning and empower future leaders.

Apply for an academic scholarship by clicking on the link below.

Student Services and Wellbeing

How are our Year 7s doing so far?

We surveyed a few students and here's what they have to say:

How did you feel on your first day of Year 7?   

1. Nervous

2. I felt a bit nervous about all the learning about to come, but school was more chill than I thought.

3. Excited because my cousins are at this school.

What's been a highlight so far?   

1. PE and Chapel

2. The highlight so far has been Year 7 camp. We haven't gone to camp yet, but it already sounds really exciting.

3. Ms Wills class is so fun and she makes me enjoy History.

What is something funny that has happened? 

1. My friends messing around

2. Something funny that happened was we were doing a challenge on who can stay quiet for the longest time, and Charlie said "Darcy spoke" and then Darcy said "No I didn't."

3. When Surkaab dropped the piano in Digital Tech.

Have you made new friendships? 

1. Yes

2. I've made friends with new people because I wanted to try something new and fun

3. Yes I have, with Amir. He was really shy at the start but then he came out of his shell.

What do you hope to achieve this year? 

1. Basic Geology, better handwriting and new friends.

2. I hope to build good friendships with people, and also get good grades.

3. Get better handwriting.

We also surveyed some Year 12s...

How did you feel about doing Year 12 this year?

1. I was a bit nervous at the start, but I'm excited to see how this year will go!

2. I feel a mix of excitement and pressure.  It's a big challenge, but I believe it's a chance to grow, push myself and make the most of my year.

3. Year 12 has been both exciting and stressful. Balancing all the work and studying is tough. But it's a time to learn and try new things.

What are you most looking forward to?

1. I'm looking forward to all the events that we'll have throughout the year.

2. Year 12 Formal and working with the Student Leaders.

3. I'm most looking forward to finishing Year 12. Also looking forward to Swimming Carnival.

What are your goals for this year?

1. My goal is to be the best student I can be.

2. Creating new memories and making the most of my year.

3. My goals for this year are to stay on top of my studies and achieve good grades. Also participate in school activities to make lasting memories.

What has changed since you started at Prescott College?

1. Well for this year, instead of going to high school with my older sisters, I'm spending the year with my little brother in Year 7.

2. Since I've started at Prescott, I've grown more confident and I've learned how to manage my studies.

3. I've become more independent and confident in my learning. The supportive enrvironment has helped me make new friends.

What are your ambitions for the future?

1. I plan to work as a Zookeeper, so after I graduate I'm going straight back to school.

2. To challenge myself, take new opportunities and develop personally.

3. I hope to develop skills that allow me to contribute meaningfully to my passion and interests, while growing strong relationships with others.

What do you love most about Prescott College?

1. The teachers and SSOs. They are all so kind and helpful.

2. The community and the friendships I've made throughout my time here.

3. What I love about Prescott College is its supportive community and its focus on experiential learning.

What advice would you give to the new Year 7s?

1. Give everything a go. High school goes by so fast, so enjoy it while you can.

2. To enjoy your school journey, and don't be afraid to ask for help. High school may be overwhelming at first, but it goes very quickly and before you know it you'll be in Year 12.

3. Keep track of your assignments and deadlines. Manage your time effectively. Don't hesitate to ask teachers and peers for help if you're confused about something.

Encourage your child to take advantage of this free service, managed by Student Support Officers and Teachers. No booking is required—your child can simply drop by the Library after school.

Community Info

Business Directory

Prescott College is working on a Directory that can be used within our community. If you have a business or would like to recommend your workplace, please complete this form. You are welcome to share family or friends' businesses with their permission. Please use a new form for each business.

Hyundai Wheels Workshop hosted by Stillwell Hyundai Nailsworth

To be held on Friday 21st March from 6:00pm - 8:00pm
A free community focussed initiative guided by the friendly team at Stillwell Hyundai.
The Wheels Workshop is designed to provide attendees with practical car-care knowledge along with hands-on experience.
It is open to anyone in the community who is interested to attend, both Hyundai and non-Hyundai owners. Guests are welcome to bring family or a friend.
The evening also includes complimentary snacks, drinks and a giveaway gift including a genuine Hyundai Protect car cleaning kit.
It may be of particular interest to parents with soon to be learner or provisional drivers. Or maybe even an elderly relative or friend to understand the latest technology.
Essentially, it’s a great opportunity for anyone to gain confidence and get up to speed with all things vehicle safety, innovation, connectivity and electrification.

To RSVP simply contact Jing Lin at (08) 8349 3326 or email: jinglin@stillwellhyundai.com.au