LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
NEWSLETTER
18 September 2026
Value of the Term - Authenticity
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.”
Titus 2:7
IMPORTANT DATES
Date | Event |
|---|---|
18th September | Last Day of Term 3 |
6th October | First day of Term 4 |
6th - 9th October | Year 10 Outdoor Education Camp |
PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
We are blessed to live in a peaceful and well-resourced country. Yet many of the freedoms we enjoy today came at a great cost in the past. Religious harmony did not emerge overnight simply because people of different faiths came together; rather, it followed periods of conflict and bloodshed. Peace was achieved only after many trials and challenges.
When we appreciate the diversity and differences among people, we can work together towards a better world. In Matthew 5:39, Jesus says, “But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
Through this passage, Jesus emphasises the importance of loving others and letting go of resentment. Those who forgive the wrongs of others often find greater peace and happiness. Nelson Mandela offers a powerful example of this principle. After enduring 27 years of imprisonment under apartheid, he chose reconciliation rather than revenge and helped guide South Africa towards a multiracial democracy. His example shows that forgiveness is not weakness—it is a courageous choice that can help heal deep divisions and build a more peaceful future.
For those who find it difficult to respect others, may the Lord grant them the peace and confidence to do so.
I wish everyone a safe and restful term break!
Blessings,
Mr Leong
WELLBEING
Youth Alive Main Event
I just wanted to take a moment to share about a recent event that Robyn Hokai and I had the honour of being part of, the Youth Alive Main Event, which took place at Margaret Court Arena on August 17th.
The event was a large-scale outreach night that brought together around 7,000 teenagers from youth ministries across Victoria, with over 1,200 decisions for the Gospel made throughout the night.
The evening was filled with games, an incredible performance from guest US rapper Tommy Zuko, powerful praise and worship, and a message from guest speaker Ps Sam Long from Nova Church. Many of our students here at the College attended with their respective youth ministries, and it was certainly a significant night for this generation.
Robyn and I had the amazing honour of serving as part of the Worship Team and witnessed first-hand the life-transforming power of the Gospel. Many teenagers who came for the first time gave their hearts to Jesus. Others came carrying all different kinds of challenges, addictions, strongholds and personal struggles, and experienced the transformative power of Jesus.
This wasn’t simply an ordinary night of fun and games. It was a night where the name of Jesus was declared over our city and over the young people of this nation.
We are incredibly grateful to God for the lives that were saved and transformed, but we were also reminded once again of just how precious young people are to God. Psalm 127:3 (NLT) says, “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.” What an incredible privilege it is that we get to journey alongside and invest into the lives of young people who have been entrusted to us. They are loved, chosen, set apart, and here on purpose and for a purpose.
We are so grateful for the opportunity to minister to and serve the students of this College, and we continue to pray that they would know who they are, whose they are, and the purpose God has for their lives.
Blessings,
Jordan Brodie & Robyn Hokai
Secondary Wellbeing Chaplains
MUSIC
Senior Band Lunchtime Performance
Congratulations to the Senior Band on their performance at lunchtime last Tuesday! The group treated students to a feast of songs outside the Music Centre and it was wonderful to see so many students enjoying the music and supporting our student musicians.
Many thanks goes to the following students for their work as part of this group.
Kyan Koa (Vocals)
Jemima Fernando (Vocals/ Alto Sax)
Naomi Pang (Vocals/ Alto Sax)
Rachella Keegan (Vocals/ Guitar)
Egan Chang Tam Tsang (Keys/ Percussion)
Jacob Zhao (Keys/ Percussion)
Angel Tandon (Keys)
Welton Pek (Guitar)
Jeriah Ly (Bass)
Thevan Kajipa (Drums/ Percussion)
Siana Suntah (Drums/ Percussion)
Performances like this don’t just come together – they involve regular practice, commitment and teamwork and these students have been rehearsing consistently all year on Friday mornings before school to develop their skills and sound.
Many thanks also to their band director, Mr Judex Rose, whose wonderful work leading the band and arranging parts has helped them make such wonderful progress.
Mrs Shari Bhatt
Head of Music
Year 9/10 Music Performance Showcase
Last week, the Year 9/10 Music Performance class shared some of the music they have been developing throughout this term at their evening Showcase.
It was a wonderful night of solo and group performances, with students presenting a diverse range of repertoire and demonstrating the skills and confidence they have developed throughout the year. For the students, the evening represented the culmination of many weeks of practice, rehearsal and preparation, both in Music Performance classes and through their instrumental and vocal lessons.
Performing in front of an audience takes courage, and it was wonderful to see students supporting one another and stepping forward to share their music with family and friends. The Showcase provided an opportunity not only to celebrate polished performances, but also to recognise the growth, perseverance and commitment that takes place along the way.
Congratulations to our Year 9/10 Music Performance students on their performances and thank you to the families, friends and Ms Ferry who came along to support and encourage them.
Tanvin Bindra – Voice
Jacob Zhao – Piano
Siana Suntah – Drums
Naomi Pang – Clarinet
Jemima – Voice
Rachella Keegan – Guitar
Welton Pek – Guitar
Charlie Elliott & John Panagiotou – Keyboard
Senior Band
Many thanks to the instrumental staff (both at Lighthouse and outside of school), who have helped these students develop their instrumental skills this year.
Mrs Shari Bhatt
Head of Music
SPORT
Over the past week, our students have represented our College across multiple sporting competitions and what a success it was! Select students were chosen to compete in the annual, All Schools Badminton tournament (Primary and Secondary) and CSEN Secondary Athletics championship.
Not only did we achieve many podium finishes in CSEN Athletics, but our students displayed incredible determination and skill.
In the All-Schools Badminton Tournament, our Primary team played in back-to-back grand finals, only just falling short of 1st place! In Secondary division 2, both our girls and boys teams narrowly missed out on advancing into the quarter finals. It was also awesome to welcome back our LCC Alumni – Tammy and Nikiesha who helped coach and support our students after coming in 2nd place at this tournament last year.
As a College we are excited to see the growing sport culture in our school and look forward to building on this strong foundation and momentum in the years to come. Well done to all students who competed in these events. All results from the competitions can be found below.
CSEN Athletics Championship
Deng Agook (U21) – 1st, Long Jump | 1st, 100m | 1st, 200m | 1st, High Jump
Andrada Musat (U15) – 3rd, Discus
Anchoretta (U14) – 3rd, Shot Put | 3rd, 1500m | 1st, 800m
Siana Suntah (U15) – 3rd, 100m
Ava Wilson Bolivar (U13) – 2nd, Shot Put
Zangan Taing (U14) – 2nd, 100m | 3rd, Long Jump
Aiden Tan (U13) – 3rd, 100m | 2nd, 200m | 3rd, 400m
Leonka Chandrasena (U21) – 1st, Discus | 1st, Shot Put
Welton Pek (U14) – 2nd, High Jump
Izanda Taing (U13) – 2nd, 200m | 3rd, 400m
Isla Allison (U15) – 1st, High Jump
Angila Tang (U15) – 1st, 400m
Darian Netto (U21) – 2nd, 400m
Austin Zhang (U15) – 3rd, 400m
All-Schools Badminton Tournament
Primary Team 1 – 2nd Place Overall
Secondary Girls Div 2 Team 1 – Group A: 2nd Place
Secondary Girls Div 2 Team 2 – Group B: 2nd Place
Secondary Boys Div 2 Team 1 – Group D: 2nd Place
Secondary Boys Div 2 Team 2 – Group B: 3rd Place
Sports Club
Our Sport Club program has continued to provide students with opportunities to try new sports, develop their skills and enjoy being active in a fun and supportive environment.
This term, our Year 7-10 girls took part in pickleball coaching. Meanwhile, the boys participated in table tennis coaching. These programs enabled the students to learn the fundamentals of the sport and develop their technique as well as their confidence.
It was fantastic to see students embracing these new sporting opportunities and challenging themselves to develop skills in sports they may not have experienced before. We look forward to the new sporting opportunities this program offers in Term 4.
Caitlyn Stephens
Sports Administrator
Lighthouse Football Club – Inaugural Season Round-Up
What a season it has been for Lighthouse Football Club! As a brand-new club entering our inaugural season, we began the year with two boys’ teams – an Under 12 and an Under 16 boys team – and it has been exciting to see the club come together and grow throughout the season.
Our Under 12s team had an outstanding season, finishing second place in their competition. This team showed great determination and development throughout the season, with their second place finish a fantastic achievement for their first season competing. Our Under 16s also put together a valuable season, finishing 7th. This season provided plenty of opportunities for players to develop, gain experience and build a strong foundation for the years ahead.
Beyond the results, this inaugural season has been about establishing the foundations of Lighthouse FC as a Christ-centred, welcoming and positive football community. it has been wonderful to see players from both the Lighthouse and wider local community come together, with many of our members being Lighthouse students, staff and congregation members. This partnership between Lighthouse Christian College, Lighthouse Family Christian Church and Lighthouse FC has provided a great opportunity to bring our communities together in an environment where faith and sport combine.
As we look ahead to growing Lighthouse FC, we’re excited to welcome more players, a girl's team, coaches, volunteers and supporters to the club. If you’re interested in playing, coaching or sponsoring, head to the Lighthouse FC website to find out more on how to get involved.
Together we are - 32 players, 8 committee members, many LCC alumni, countless families and most importantly, one growing community.
Grill'd Local Community Jar
In other exciting news, Lighthouse FC has been selected as one of three local community groups supported by Grill’d Southland this September!
We’re already almost halfway through the month, and there’s still plenty of time to get involved! Throughout September, every meal purchased at Grill’d Southland comes with a token. Pop your token into the Lighthouse FC jar to support our club!
It’s a simple way to enjoy a meal with family and friends during the term break while contributing to the continued growth of LFC. We’d love for the school community to get involved and spread the word with your families, friends and wider networks throughout the rest of September.
Caitlyn Stephens
Lighthouse FC Fundraising Coordinator
PRIMARY
ELC - Year 2
A Wonderful Day at the Zoo
The Preps had a wonderful day at the zoo. We enjoyed seeing God’s beautiful creations and learning about the amazing animals.
We saw meerkats and had a fun and educational session with the wonderful zookeepers. They taught us lots of interesting facts.
We also saw seals, giraffes and cheeky monkeys. We loved watching the beautiful butterflies flutter around.
It was a fun day filled with learning, excitement and wonder. We are so thankful for the amazing animals God has created!
Portia Martil
Primary Teacher
PRIMARY
Year 3 - 6
Year 5 Excursion to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
On Friday 28th of August the Year 5s travelled to the city to watch the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra perform at Hamer Hall.
For most students, this was their first time seeing an orchestra perform and seeing professional musicians play some of the instruments they are now learning in their Concert Band curriculum. The orchestra performed several movements from Camile Saint-Saens’ much-loved suite, ‘The Carnival of the Animals’, along with some contemporary works inspired by Australian animals. The performances were also accompanied by children’s drawings of animals projected onto a screen behind the orchestra.
Seeing the orchestra, watching the musicians and enjoying the beautiful music was a fantastic experience for our Year 5s. Hopefully it has inspired them in their own learning and opened their minds to what is possible as a musician.
Mrs Shari Bhatt
Head of Music
A special performance from Colin Buchanan
This week, our Primary students will have a special performance in Chapel from Colin Buchanan, a Christian children's singer and performer. If you would like to listen to some of his songs as a family over the holidays, please click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_luW_jCwM3Lyx2oliZqFouTTAF0axERajs
SECONDARY
Celebrating our Secondary Production
Earlier this term we were proud to feature our 2027 secondary production of Mary Poppins on stage at the Clayton Community Centre.
A wide range of students across our secondary school, plus a few of our grade 6 students, helped both on and off the stage to make the show come alive, and we are so proud of the incredible work they put into piecing everything together over the last twelve months.
A musical theatre production requires a significant amount of discipline, teamwork, resilience, patience, courage, and creativity, and we congratulate all the students involved for their efforts.
We also thank all of the staff, parents, and other volunteers who helped to make the show a reality. It’s always wonderful to see a show grow from just an idea into a fully-fledged production, and it would not have happened without the countless hours poured into it by so many.
Well done to everyone involved and thank you for making Mary Poppins such a wonderful memory for so many of our staff and students.
Stay tuned for information about next year’s primary production coming very soon!
Josiah Hilbig
Production Coordinator
Gravitate Community Day
Our Year 11 Gravitate students recently attended Community Day at the Melbourne School of Theology. The day included chapel, training sessions, group activities, filming and opportunities to connect with students from other schools.
A special mention goes to Ashleen and Isaac, who represented Lighthouse as part of the worship band during chapel.
All of our Lighthouse students represented the College exceptionally well throughout the day. They participated actively, worked positively with others and embraced the different activities on offer, making Community Day a wonderful and engaging experience for everyone involved.
Christopher Surendra
Head of Christian Studies
Year 9 & 10 Chinese Elective Students Explore Box Hill
Our Year 9 and 10 Chinese elective students recently had the opportunity to put their Mandarin learning into practice during an exciting excursion to Box Hill on 28th August.
The excursion provided students with an authentic opportunity to experience Chinese language and culture outside the classroom. As part of their current learning about clothing, fashion and shopping, students visited local shops and explored the diverse Chinese speaking community in Box Hill.
Throughout the day, students practised using Mandarin in real-life situations. The highlight of the excursion was the students' shopping conversation task, where they used Mandarin to interact with shop assistants and demonstrate their communication skills. Students were encouraged to be confident, respectful and independent when using Chinese in authentic situations.
We enjoyed lunch at Haidilao. Our students tried hotpot and watch the noodle dance and face changing show.
Our students also attended a traditional Chinese music workshop, where they got to see traditional Chinese instruments and play the Chinese drums.
It was wonderful to see our students stepping outside their comfort zones, communicating in Mandarin and enjoying the experience. We are very proud of the way they represented our school and engaged with their learning throughout the day.
Ms Tang
LOTE Faculty Leader
VCE Psychology at the Zoo
Our VCE Unit 3-4 Psychology students recently enjoyed an engaging and informative excursion to the zoo, where they had the opportunity to take their learning beyond the classroom and put their knowledge into practice.
During a guided session with a Zoo educator, students explored ethical issues relating to science and animal welfare. They conducted a fieldwork investigation, applying important Key Science Skills including data collection, analysis and scientific communication. It was wonderful to see students actively engage with the investigation and practically apply the skills they have been developing throughout their VCE Psychology studies.
Adding to the experience, we were blessed with beautiful weather, allowing everyone to enjoy some much-needed sunshine and a healthy dose of Vitamin D!
Mrs. Raymonda Togany
VCE Psychology Teacher
Humanities in VCE
Year 11 students in the humanities are learning the theoretical knowledge in authentic and practical situations. Check these out!
Accounting
Our Year 11 Accounting students recently stepped into the shoes of real business owners as they explored the concept of discount revenue through an interactive and hands-on learning activity. Using authentic business scenarios, students analysed transactions, made financial decisions, and recorded accounting entries just as they would in the real world. The classroom was filled with discussion, collaboration, and problem-solving as students discovered how accounting helps businesses grow and succeed. We are committed to making learning meaningful, engaging, and relevant—equipping students with valuable financial skills that will benefit them well beyond the classroom.
Business Management
In VCE Business Management, Year 11 students put the principles of marketing into practice through a competitive chocolate bar design and marketing challenge. Working as business teams, students developed their own chocolate product, identified a specific target market and considered how elements of the marketing mix could be used to make their product appealing and competitive. Students then presented their product and marketing strategy, competing against their classmates and having to justify the decisions they had made. The activity required students to think creatively, make strategic decisions and communicate their ideas as they would in a real-world business environment and to be judged by a real marketing expert, our own Mr Dawson.
History
What happens when two superpowers compete for global influence without directly fighting each other? In Unit 2 History, students have explored the tense years of the Cold War, investigating political decisions and international tensions that shaped the world after World War II. From the Cuban Missile Crisis, when the world stood on the brink of nuclear war, to the Vietnam War, students examined different perspectives and debated the challenging question: Was the Vietnam War necessary?
To finish the unit, students visited the Shrine of Remembrance, learning about the experiences of Victorians who served in Vietnam and connecting their classroom learning with stories of remembrance.
Legal Studies
In VCE Legal Studies, Year 11 students moved beyond simply learning about the law of negligence by participating in a mock civil trial. Students took on the roles of plaintiffs, defendants, legal representatives and witnesses, using their understanding of negligence to construct arguments, present evidence and respond to the arguments of the opposing side.
This experiential activity gave students the opportunity to experience the processes involved in resolving a civil dispute and to appreciate how legal principles are applied in a realistic courtroom setting. By stepping into the roles of participants in the legal system, students developed a deeper understanding of both the law and the skills required to advocate for a position.
Chin Ee Lor
Head of Humanities
LIGHTHOUSE CHURCH NEWS
Withdrawal Policy
Please be reminded of the Term Notice Withdrawal Policy at Lighthouse Christian College. If you are planning to withdraw your child or children from the College, a full term’s written notice is required. The Withdrawal Form can be accessed via SEQTA or collected from the school office.