Term 1 Week 4 Newsletter
Leadership Insights
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to
prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a
future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
High school is a critical period in our students' development, shaping their academic, social, and spiritual futures. As parents, educators, church members, or mentors, we have a significant opportunity to guide and support our youth in realizing their God-given potential. Through a faith-based perspective, we can collectively play an essential role in nurturing their growth in faith, character, and education. Here are some practical ways to help our young people thrive:
1. Lead by Example
Students are often more influenced by our actions than our words. By embodying
strong faith, integrity, respect, and a commitment to lifelong learning, we
demonstrate how to live purposefully. Engaging in Scripture study, prayer, and active
participation in church activities provides a positive model for them to emulate.
2. Encourage a Christ-Centred Education
While academic success is vital, true fulfilment stems from purposeful learning.
Encourage your child to view their studies as a way to serve God and others.
Adventist education emphasises holistic growth—mentally, physically, and spiritually.
Support their participation in programs offered through Prescott College, Pathfinders,
and mission trips that reinforce this faith-based learning.
3. Foster Meaningful Conversations
Set aside time to be present and listen to your students and engage in meaningful
discussions. Inquire about their challenges, aspirations, and faith journeys. Help
them frame difficulties within a biblical context, reminding them of God’s promises
and His unique plan for their lives.
4. Provide Opportunities for Service
Engaging students in service activities is one of the most effective ways to foster
their growth. Whether through school and local church outreach, community projects,
or mission work, these experiences not only strengthen their faith but also help
develop valuable leadership skills while creating a balance work/life focus.
5. Support Their Talents and Career Goals
Every student has unique gifts. Encourage your child to explore their
talents—whether in the arts, science, or ministry. Provide mentorship, resources, and
networking opportunities to help them pursue careers that align with their values and
calling.
6. Create a Safe and Nurturing Environment
Adolescence presents emotional and social challenges. It is crucial to ensure that
home, school, and church environments provide a supportive and encouraging
space where students feel safe to express their struggles and seek guidance.
7. Pray for and With Them
Prayer is a powerful way to support our high school students. Pray for their spiritual
development, decision-making, and protection. Additionally, pray alongside them to
reinforce the importance of their personal relationship with Christ.
Conclusion
By investing in our students, we help them establish a foundation of faith,
knowledge, and service that will guide them throughout life. As educators and
parents, we hold the privilege and responsibility to mentor, encourage, and equip
them to become strong leaders and devoted disciples of Christ.
Let us collaborate in partnership to support the next generation—because in doing
so, we are shaping the future of both the church and the world.
Mr Hamilton Deputy Principal
Prescott News
Outdoor Ed Camps
Year 7 Camp: A Thrilling Adventure!
The Year 7 Camp was nothing short of amazing! Over two action-packed nights at the Willow Creek Adventure Camp, near the stunning Victor Harbor, our students had the chance to step out of their comfort zones, have a blast, and build memories that will last a lifetime. From exciting outdoor activities to forging new friendships, this camp truly had it all!
Nestled in a beautiful, natural setting, the camp was the perfect place for students to connect with one another and develop crucial life skills, all while having heaps of fun. Every day was filled with adventure, teamwork, and personal growth.
Camp Highlights:
- Bush-walks: Exploring the wild, scenic trails, students learned to navigate nature and push their limits. Students enjoyed a spooky night walk while stargazing and being in awe of God’s beautiful work!
- Surfing: The surf was up, and our students were up for the challenge, catching waves and conquering the ocean.
- Cycling: Rolling through Victor Harbor, students tested their cycling skills and enjoyed the great outdoors.
- Raft-building: Working in teams, they built rafts, faced challenges, and learned the importance of collaboration and problem-solving.
- Orienteering: Using maps and compasses, students honed their navigation skills, discovering the thrill of orienting themselves in unfamiliar environments.
- Kayaking: Students took to the water, paddling to conquer the challenges of the creek.
- Team-building activities: With fun games and exercises, students strengthened their teamwork and leadership skills, all while having a laugh.
Throughout the camp, students were supported by staff who encouraged them every step of the way. They formed friendships, developed new skills, and gained confidence in themselves, all in a safe and nurturing environment. It was truly a camp to remember!
A huge congratulations to all of the Year 7s for their enthusiasm, spirit, and determination! What a fantastic start to their high school adventure! Here’s to many more exciting experiences ahead.
- Stepheny Moukachar
Year 9s Had a Wonderful Week at West Beach
The Year 9 students spent four nights at the West Beach Caravan Park, enjoying a fun-filled schedule packed with activities. From snorkelling and hiking to mountain biking and escape rooms, there was never a dull moment!
Pr Mal
Year 10s - Loved Lower Glenelg - Victoria
This week, our Year 10 students set off on an incredible adventure to the Lower Glenelg River in Victoria. Over three days, they hiked through beautiful bushland, paddled along the river in canoes, and camped under the stars—completely unplugged from technology. With no phone reception, students embraced the chance to be fully present, enjoying the outdoors and each other’s company.
Throughout the camp, they developed valuable outdoor skills, including map reading, canoe paddling, and learning how to hike and camp while carrying all their gear. It was also a fantastic opportunity to bond with classmates they don’t normally interact with, strengthening friendships and building new connections within the school community.
When asked about their highlights, Savitri shared that canoeing was the best part of the trip, while others loved swimming at the waterhole in Dartmoor. Some students couldn’t pick just one moment, saying the whole experience was a highlight.
Year 10 Camp was an amazing experience filled with adventure, teamwork, and personal growth. Well done to all the students for taking on the challenge and making it such a memorable trip!
Mr Jacob Beebe
Merit Ceremony
The annual Merit Ceremony for SACE Merit recipients, traditionally held at Government House, was scheduled for Wednesday, February 12th. However, due to extreme heat, the event had to be cancelled. Despite this, we are proud to acknowledge our Prescott College recipient, Ella Hann, who earned a SACE Merit in Spiritualities, Religion, and Meaning. Ella was also the Prescott College SACE Dux for 2024 with an ATAR of 92.3.
Congratulations to Ella on this outstanding achievement!
Prescott Schools Dedication Service
Our Prescott Primary and Prescott College communities came together at Para Vista Church for a special dedication service on Saturday 15th February.
Each year, at the start of the school year, we gather together 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.
Congratulations Seth
We are delighted to share that Seth Robson recently took the important step of baptism, publicly declaring his faith and commitment. This special occasion was a beautiful moment for him, his family, and our community. We congratulate him on this significant milestone and pray for his continued journey of faith and growth.
Chaplain's Corner
What is happening to my Prescott family! It is Pr Mal here and I'm excited to be able to share some thoughts for the first time this year. I'm sure 2025 has started off really busy like it has for us here at school. Our Year 7, 9 and 10s have just come back from camp so there are a lot of tired students and teachers.
I've recently been reading the book of 1 Corinthians and I've been fascinated at how Paul was writing to the people of Corinth and he was quite frank with his ideas with them. An interesting read if you have some spare time. But one verse that stood out to me during my reading and Paul was sharing how God continues to support the people of Corinth and reaffirming them the truth of Jesus Christ as they waited for Jesus' return. In verse 9 he wrote:
“God can be trusted, and he chose you to be partners with his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.”
One of my big ideas that I shared with our Year 9s in camp that I want to share with you is that God can be trusted. As we went around the many activities, I reassured our Year 9 students that when they face challenges such as the high ropes and snorkelling they have some they can put their trust in. We can do the same. Whatever challenges may come up in life or at work, always remember that God can be trusted and he is by our side.
As always, the chaplains are always here to support whether it is a prayer or even just a chat. Open to our wider Prescott College community.
Blessings,
Pr Mal
Key Dates to Remember
Road Awareness Program
Tuesday 25th February - Our Year 11 and Year 12 students will have the invaluable opportunity to participate in the Road Awareness Program (RAP), an initiative designed to educate young drivers and passengers about the importance of road safety. Delivered by experienced emergency service professionals, the session will be both eye-opening and thought-provoking, encouraging students to consider the real-life consequences of their choices on the road.
Through powerful personal stories, engaging discussions, and real-world crash scenarios, students will learn about key aspects of road safety, including responsible driving, risk management, and the impact of distractions and peer pressure. The program will also highlight the crucial role young people play in fostering a culture of safe driving, whether behind the wheel or as passengers.
The RAP session is expected to leave a lasting impression on our students, many of whom will likely feel more confident in making responsible decisions on the road. As they step closer to gaining their licences, we hope the lessons learned from this program will help them stay safe and look out for others.
We extend our gratitude in advance to the presenters for delivering what promises to be a powerful and engaging session. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and we are proud to equip our students with the knowledge and awareness to contribute to safer roads for everyone.
Immunisations
Wednesday 26th February -Year 7 and Year 10 students will receive their first round of immunisations. They may wear their PE uniform to school on that day. If they are feeling unwell, it is recommended that they postpone their immunisation, and alternative arrangements will need to be made.
Long Weekend
Public Holiday
Open Days
We invite new families to visit the College to discover why Prescott is the right fit for them!
OPEN EVENING: Thursday 13th March, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
OPEN MORNING: Thursday 27th March, 9:30am - 11:30am
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- They have chosen music as an elective (Year 7 - 10 only) and are maintaining a B grade or higher for the semester
- They are available for performances for Showcase, School concerts and at least one church visit with Prescott College
- 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!
Student Services and Wellbeing
Parent Information Session
Supporting Teen Well-being & Academic Success
On Monday 17 February, Psychologist, Kirrilie Smout delivered a presentation on the factors that make senior students successful in high school. Her presentation was specifically tailored to guide our parents of Year 11 and Year 12 students. Kirrilie mentioned many factors, but her message was mainly about ensuring that students maintain balance in all they do, that they have healthy routines when it comes to nutrition, sleep and exercise, and that they have a supportive network of adults and friends around them.
Throughout the year, Kirrilie will be presenting three seminars to our students related to brain-training, study habits and dealing with stress. Information will be sent to parents after each seminar to encourage follow-up discussions at home.
Ms Renee Chen Inclusive Education Coordinator
Key Factors for Teen Success
Helping young people thrive in secondary school involves several key factors. While every teen is different, research suggests the following play a role in their well-being and academic achievement:
- Sleep Matters – Most teens need 8.5 to 10 hours per night. Lack of sleep can affect mood and school performance. Regular sleep schedules and limiting late-night tech use can help.
- Positive Peer Connections – Friendships inside and outside school support well-being and academic outcomes, though social needs vary between teens.
- Good Communication Skills – Teens who can express their thoughts and emotions tend to experience better mental health and higher achievement.
- Balanced Activities – Sports, hobbies, and part-time work help well-being but should be balanced. More than 5–10 hours of work per week may impact other areas of life.
- Consistent Study Habits – Regular school attendance and steady study routines lead to better learning outcomes.
- Effective Study Strategies – Planning, reducing distractions, and self-evaluating work improve efficiency and results.
Ways Parents Can Support Teens
- Understand Teen Development – Engaging in casual chats, attending school events, and learning about adolescent behaviour can strengthen connections.
- Encourage Decision-Making – Supporting autonomy helps teens build confidence and independence. Providing choices and discussing consequences rather than enforcing strict rules can be beneficial.
- Recognise Behaviour Challenges as Learning Gaps – Many common teen struggles (chores, homework, tech use, social conflicts) stem from developing skills and emotional needs.
- Have Collaborative Conversations – Instead of just giving advice, ask teens for their views, listen, and problem-solve together.
- Focus on Positives – Empathy, humour, appreciation, and quality time strengthen relationships. Praise and encouragement can make a big difference.
Looking After Yourself
Parenting is a long journey, not a race. Taking time for yourself, acknowledging your strengths, and managing expectations can help you support your teen effectively.
Every Tuesday, the talented Math teacher Mr. Mattner will be available to help students enhance their math skills, in the Library from 3:30pm until 5:00pm.
Homework Club runs each week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If your child needs extra support in their studies, they are welcome to attend. Bookings not required.
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.
