LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
NEWSLETTER
24 June 2026
Value of the Term - Empowerment
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Psalm 46:1
IMPORTANT DATES
Date | Event |
|---|---|
14th July | Curriculum Day - No Students |
15th July | Term 3 commences - Prep - 12 |
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
Empowered to Serve Others
This week, a group of our Year 9 students and staff departed for North Queensland as part of our Missions Trip, spending time in Townsville, Cairns and Yarrabah. These experiences provide our students with an opportunity to step outside their normal routines, broaden their understanding of the world around them and learn what it means to serve others with humility, compassion and purpose.
One of the great privileges of Christian education is helping young people discover that they can make a positive difference in the lives of others. Through this missions experience, our students are being challenged to use their gifts, talents and abilities in service, to build meaningful relationships and to gain a deeper appreciation of different communities and cultures. It is often through experiences such as these that students grow in confidence, resilience and faith as they learn that they are capable of contributing to something greater than themselves.
The Year 9 Missions Trip is just one example of the many ways our students have sought to make a positive impact throughout Semester 1. Whether through student leadership, sporting teams, music performances, classroom learning, service opportunities or community events, we have seen students stepping forward, embracing opportunities and contributing positively to our College and wider community. These experiences help develop young people who are prepared not only for academic success but also for lives of service, character and faith.
We ask our Lighthouse community to continue praying for our students and staff while they are away. Please pray for safe travel, good health, meaningful connections with those they meet and that the Lord would use this experience to strengthen their faith and character. We look forward to hearing about their experiences and celebrating what they have learned when they return.
A reminder that Semester 1 Academic Reports will be available through SEQTA from 3:00pm on Wednesday, 24 June. We encourage families to take the opportunity to celebrate growth, acknowledge effort and discuss goals for the semester ahead.
Students will finish Term 2 on Wednesday, 24 June at the normal dismissal time, with Term 3 commencing on Wednesday, 15 July.
On behalf of all staff at Lighthouse Christian College, thank you for your support throughout Semester 1. We pray that all families enjoy a safe, restful and refreshing term break.
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." – 1 Peter 4:10
Yours in His service,
David Holloway
Deputy Principal
WELLBEING
Primary Wellbeing Day
Last week, our Primary students had a ball participating in Wellbeing Day, a special day dedicated to strengthening and celebrating their wellbeing! Students rotated through a variety of fun and engaging activities designed to support their physical, social, emotional, and spiritual growth.
They participated in active sessions such as boxing, circus skills and ball games, which supported their physical wellbeing through building confidence and teamwork skills.
Through interactive workshops with Bec from Lemonade Kids, students explored how to meet new people, build resilience, and embrace their differences, strengthening their social and emotional wellbeing.
Each year level also watched a different movie and reflected on themes such as friendship, perseverance, and courage, encouraging personal growth and supporting their emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Overall, the day was filled with lots of excitement, laughter, and meaningful learning as all our Primary students challenged themselves, connected with others, and reflected on how they can flourish into who God created them to be. It was a joy to see our students so enthusiastically involved in each activity and embracing opportunities to grow. We can’t wait for next year’s Wellbeing Day!
Jemma Pieris
Primary Teacher & Head of Student Wellbeing (Primary)
SPORT
CSEN Cross Country
This term, a select group of students across Primary and Secondary were chosen to represent our College in the CSEN Cross Country Championships. We had great results across the broad and couldn’t be prouder of our students! Well done to our primary students for winning Division B.
Primary Medallists
Aaron Jansen – 2nd Place
Isaac Soth – 2nd Place Abigail Van Haaster – 3rd Place
Isabel Ho – 3rd Place
Secondary Medallists
Rosie Fernando – 2nd Place
Isla Allison – 2nd Place
Tania Truong – 3rd Place
Jemima Fernando – 3rd Place
Keifer Huang – 3rd Place
CSEN Interschool Sport
Our Year 7-10 competitive CSEN Interschool sport teams have had a fantastic semester of sport, competing across multiple sports and against tough competition. A special congratulations to the following teams for their outstanding performances in their divisions.
Junior Girls Badminton Team 1: 1st Place
Junior Girls Soccer: 2nd Place
Intermediate Girls Badminton Team 1: 1st Place
Intermediate Girls Soccer: 3rd Place
Intermediate Boys Volleyball: 3rd Place
As we continue to develop our sport program, we are excited to be fostering a competitive and teamwork driven environment where students challenge themselves and support each other no matter the outcome.
We are so proud of our students and look forward to further success in the upcoming semester of CSEN Sport.
Sports Club
Following an exciting start to the year, our Sport Club program continued to grow throughout Term 2 with the introduction of Pickleball and Softball.
Students have enthusiastically embraced these new opportunities, developing their skills and teamwork. These programs have provided a positive environment for students to build confidence, strengthen friendships whilst exposing them to new sports.
We are excited to see the progress that our students have shown and are looking forward to the coaching programs offered next term!
Year 8 Outdoor Education Camp
Our Year 8 Outdoor Education students recently travelled to Wilsons Promontory National Park, where they embraced the challenges and rewards of spending time in the natural environment.
Throughout the camp, students developed their bushwalking skills, learnt about navigation, environmental awareness and safe outdoor practices. Whether tackling the hiking track, setting up camp or preparing meals, the students showed a positive attitude and willingness to challenge themselves. Ultimately the trip encouraged students to reflect on the important of perseverance, teamwork, gratitude and caring for God’s planet.
Caitlyn Stephens
Sports Administrator
MUSIC
Celebrating our Secondary Musicians
Last Thursday, the Music Department hosted its second Soiree for the term, this time showcasing the talents of our Secondary students. It was a wonderful evening of music-making, featuring performers from Years 7–10 playing a diverse range of instruments and presenting repertoire from a variety of musical styles, including Classical, Latin and Contemporary Worship music.
The evening provided students with a valuable opportunity to share their musical growth and performance skills with family and friends, and they are to be commended for the dedication and preparation that led to such polished performances.
Congratulations to the following students, who performed beautifully on the night and shared their musical gifts with courage and confidence!
Lily Vijayapalan 7C & Elellan Tamiru 7C - Flute duet
Mikhael Sthavan 7B - Guitar
Ryan Sun 7B Alto - Saxophone & Flute
Teagan Wong 7A - Flute
Matthew Joshua 7C - Keyboard
Arnold Sun 7A - Flute
Aiden Ly 7A - Euphonium
Isabelle Wong 7C - Flute
Cynthia Zhang 7B - Trumpet
Jeremy Zhao 7A - Trumpet
Amaya Bhatt 8A - Voice
Tanvin Bindra 9A - Voice
Naomi Pang 9C - Voice
Amanda Polo 9C, Austin Cioccolanti 9B & Kaylan Pradeeban 10B - Guitar Ensemble
Angel Tandon 10B - Drum-kit
A heartfelt thank you also goes to the families, friends and staff who attended the Soiree and supported our students on the night. Their presence, encouragement and applause helped create a wonderful atmosphere of celebration and affirmation for the students.
Finally, sincere thanks to our dedicated Music Department staff, whose expertise, encouragement and commitment helped prepare our students for their performances. Their ongoing investment in each student's musical growth and development is greatly appreciated.
Shari Bhatt
Head of Music
PRIMARY ELC - Year 2
Scienceworks Excursion Year 2
This week, Year 2 blasted off on an exciting adventure to Scienceworks, crossing the mighty West Gate Bridge on our mission to explore the wonders of science and space! Our first stop was the Blast Off – Mission to Mars presentation in the Energy Lab, where students discovered several impressive ways to launch rockets, including air pressure, chemical reactions and other forces guaranteed to make things fly. We then travelled far beyond Earth in the Planetarium, joining Tycho the dog on a journey to Mars and through the spectacular universe of stars and galaxies. After a remarkably civilised lunch on the outdoor steps (a scientific marvel in itself!), we finished the day exploring the interactive Think Ahead exhibition. It was a day filled with curiosity, discovery and enough rocket launches to inspire a future generation of scientists and astronauts!
Rene Marshall
Primary Teacher
PRIMARY - Years 3 - 6
Minecraft Club
Lighthouse launched our inaugural Minecraft Club across the upper primary school in Term 1. Open to all students on Thursdays, the club has seen great participation. At the end of May, the following students submitted their Minecraft builds and slide decks to the Australian eSports League:
- Yug Patel – 6A
- Nora Guan – 5C
- Arav Tandon – 6A
- Menuja Mendis – 6C
These students also had the privilege of sharing their projects with the Primary school assembly on Friday the 19th of July for NAIDOC Week. Their work provided a fantastic connection between STEM and “Connection to Country.” Using the Minecraft world, they creatively told the story of how our land at Lighthouse in Keysborough has changed over the past 200 years, specifically focusing on how the creation of the Patterson River drained the local wetlands.
We look forward to hearing the results from the Australian eSports League soon!
In Term 3, our focus shifts to a “Lighthouse-only” build series titled Medieval Marvels. We are exploring how engineering was essential for survival in the past. Students will investigate the question: How did medieval innovations help communities survive nature’s challenges?
Students will examine how these communities engineered solutions to survive natural hazards such as floods, fire, famine, and sieges. Working in teams, they will select a specific culture and hazard, then design a functional mechanism or system to address the problem. Examples include floodgates, drawbridges, granaries, or fire-breaks.
We look forward to the students participation on Thursday and their developing builds in Term 3.
Adrian Webster and Sarah Chung
Head of eLearning
VCE-VM Buddy Program
The VCE-VM Buddy program helps connect a year 11/12 student with a child and give them 1 on 1 friendship and support. The Primary students have loved meeting with their “Buddies” every fortnight this semester and doing a range of activities such as playing games, craft activities, Jigsaw puzzles, bible studies and drawing. This time helps build confidence, social skills and makes them feel valued.
“I like when me and Izzy read, colour, draw and talk. Also, me and Izzy have a lot in common. We read/like the book. We both like the colour blue and a lot more. This is why I think she’s the best buddy.” Amaya Grade 3
“When I go with him the year 12 boys, I like to play chess, and I like to talk with him. I also like to go to the library.” George Year 3
“I love spending time with my buddy. She’s like a big sister to me.”
“I like playing 'Guess Who' with my buddy because it is fun and I feel confident.” Liza Year 3
“I like playing in the playground with my buddy and just being together. It’s fun” Sienna Year 5
“I like doing puzzle solving games with my buddy so we can train our brains together.” Elijah Year 3
“I like playing ping pong with my buddy because it's fun and I feel happy.” Kyriakos Year 3
“I like spending time playing games with my buddy. I like it when I win, but I like talking to him too.” Joshua Year 4
“My buddy helps me with my homework and plays games with me. I like to talk to him when I need to.” Jayden Year 5
Mrs Cherrie Marshall (Chaplain) & Mrs Chin Ee Lor (VM Teacher)
Year 5 Camp Adventure
Our Year 5 students recently enjoyed an exciting camp filled with fun, learning, and new experiences. During the camp, students participated in a range of activities that encouraged teamwork, resilience, and confidence.
Highlights included visiting Maru Koala and Animal Park, exploring the puzzles and attractions at Amaze N Things, and watching the famous Penguin Parade. Before returning home, students also enjoyed a visit to the Chocolate Factory.
The camp was a wonderful opportunity for students to build friendships, challenge themselves, and create lasting memories. We are very proud of the positive way our Year 5 students represented our school throughout the trip.
Kiranmayi Appikatla
Primary Teacher
SECONDARY
Gambling Awareness Incursion
Our VCE VM students recently participated in a Gambling Awareness Program presented by King Ewelike from Better Health Network. The session was highly relevant and thoughtfully catered to the students, helping them better understand the risks associated with gambling, gaming-related gambling influences, financial decision-making, and the importance of making informed choices.
King’s presentation was engaging, practical, and relatable, allowing students to consider real-world situations and the pressures young people may face. Students explored how gambling can be promoted through sport, advertising, online platforms, and gaming environments, while also learning practical strategies to recognise risks and make safe, responsible decisions.
The workshop supported student wellbeing and life readiness by encouraging students to think critically about gambling harm, financial responsibility, and where to seek support if needed. It was a valuable learning experience that equipped students with important knowledge for both now and the future.
Christopher Surendra
Head of Christian Studies
Queen Vic Market Excursion
Our Year 11 and 12 VCE Vocational Major students recently participated in an excursion to Queen Victoria Market as part of their Numeracy and Personal Development Skills learning.
The excursion gave students the opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real-world environment. Students worked in small groups to collect price data, compare unit prices, track spending against a budget and consider how consumers make informed purchasing decisions. They explored different areas of the market, observed how products were priced and reflected on the differences between market and supermarket shopping.
A key focus of the day was helping students understand how numeracy connects to everyday life. Through practical tasks, students were able to see the importance of budgeting, comparing value for money and making thoughtful choices when purchasing food and other items.
The excursion also supported students in developing teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills. Students were required to work together, manage their time, follow check-in procedures and complete their investigation tasks while navigating a public market environment.
It was encouraging to see students engaging with the task, asking questions and making real connections between their learning and the world around them. The excursion was a valuable and practical learning experience that strengthened students’ confidence in using numeracy beyond the classroom.
Christopher Surendra
Head of Christian Studies
Lighthouse Mathletes Math's Club
Our Math's department is hard at work developing our Lighthouse Mathletes Math's Club. The focus is building students' lateral thinking and problem-solving skills. Activities in our enrichment club have come from the Math's Association of Victoria, APSMO (Math Olympiad), nRICH and ReSolve. Students have recently completed problem solving tasks in class and in Maths Club to build on their problem solving and application skills. Particular skills such as illustrating a table, identifying a pattern, drawing a diagram and working backwards has been a big focus.
We have been having around 5-6 students attend most fortnights in our lunchtime program. We are close to selecting a team of four for Year 8 and Year 9 to represent Lighthouse at a MAV Games Day competition in Term 3.
When - Wednesday lunchtimes (Yr 9 Week A, Year 8 Week B)
What - We will complete Math games similar to what is done in the competitions and develop problem solving and game theory.
The Competitions;
Year 8 MAV Games Day
Wednesday 26 August 2026
Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School, Keilor East
Year 9 MAV Games Day
Monday 20 July 2026
Tintern Grammar, Ringwood East
We look forward to seeing your child participate and enjoy a passion for Mathematics.
Hester Ang, Adrian Webster and the Mathematics Faculty
2026 Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC)
The Mathematics Faculty invites interested students to participate in the 2026 Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC), to be held during the first week of August.
The AMC is Australia's largest and longest-running mathematics competition, organised by the Australian Maths Trust (AMT). It provides students with an opportunity to challenge their mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills through a range of engaging questions.
The competition is open to:
• Junior Division – Years 7 and 8
• Intermediate Division – Years 9 and 10
Please refer to the direct message on SEQTA from the Head of Mathematics Faculty for full competition details and the payment link. The entry fee is $9.30 per student, payable by Wednesday 1 July 2026. Registrations will close after this date.
Hester Ang
Head of Mathematics (Secondary)
VR Ancient Egypt incursion- Reflections
In this VR session, we explored deeper into how the Ancient Egyptians lived and what their daily lives were like. We saw the process of wrapping bodies into mummies and the important roles of the different rulers and gods and what they did in their own way. We learnt about what beliefs they had and who they worshipped from time to time. This Session was a very valuable experience, as it helped us understand how people lived in that period of time, and how they valued different pharaohs and gods, when they were the Ancient Egyptians first priorities.
Jerusha Manova- 7B
The VR incursion was absolutely enjoyable I would say 9 out of 10 because it was enjoyable to have a look around, able to move around and I certainly learnt information that I never knew. It was funny to be able to see others get a laugh when someone had marks on their face after they put the VR headset on their face was tight and that's all I have to say. So, I like to thank Ms Gonsalves for arranging this incursion for us year 7 .
Jackie Peng- 7B
Year 9 Science
Year 9 students are currently studying the properties of light and recently investigated how light interacts with soap bubbles. Properties like reflection and transmission of light are inherent in this practical. They used a mixture of dishwashing soap, water and glycerine to create these bubbles. The challenge was to have fun creating the largest and longest lasting bubble while consolidating theoretical knowledge gained. Soap bubbles form fragile spheres that do not last long. Adding glycerine to the bubble solution: however, dramatically extends their life by counteracting the forces that cause a bubble to burst. This produces a more robust sphere which can be grown to large diameters.
Lucille Francis
Secondary Teacher
Secondary Colour Day
On Tuesday 9th June, our Secondary School community came together for a vibrant and exciting Colour Day fundraiser in support of our Year 9 Missions students.
Students embraced the theme by dressing in colourful clothing, oodies, and onesies, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere across the campus. Throughout the day, our SRC and Missions students demonstrated outstanding leadership by organising and running a variety of games and activities in the Sports Centre for students and staff to enjoy.
The fun began at recess with a highly anticipated Students vs Teachers Basketball Match, where students had the opportunity to challenge staff on the court. During lunch, the excitement continued with a teacher’s vs students Dodgeball Competition. The students came prepared with strength in numbers, but the staff claimed victory in the first game. Not to be outdone, the students fought back in the second match, securing a well-deserved win and ending the competition on a high note.
It was wonderful to see so many members of our school community participating, including our Principal, Mr Leong, and Secondary Deputy Principal, Ms Ferry, who enthusiastically joined in the games and fun alongside students and staff.
Most importantly, the day was filled with laughter, friendly competition, and countless smiles. Events such as these remind us of the importance of community, service, and coming together to support meaningful causes. We thank all students, staff, SRC members, and Missions students for their involvement in making the day such a success.
Mrs. Gosai-Jesudhason (Mrs. J)
Secondary Teacher and Head of Student Leadership
CSA Metro Student Leadership Day
On Tuesday 28 April 2026, our Year 11 Student Leaders had the opportunity to attend the CSA Metro Student Leadership Day, a leadership development event designed to equip and inspire young leaders to make a positive impact within their schools and communities.
Throughout the day, students participated in engaging sessions focused on Biblical leadership principles, exploring what it means to lead with purpose, integrity and service. They were encouraged to reflect on their own leadership journeys, identify their strengths, and consider how they can use their gifts to influence others in a Christ-centred way.
Students heard from a range of experienced speakers, including Rev. Dr. Graham Stanton, Mark Ryan, and Jennifer Walden, who shared valuable insights on leadership, character, communication and the importance of leading with authenticity. Through interactive discussions and practical activities, students explored topics such as vision-setting, decision-making, resilience and servant leadership.
The event provided an excellent opportunity for our student leaders to connect with students from other Christian schools, collaborate on leadership challenges, and gain fresh perspectives on how they can contribute positively to school life. It also reinforced the importance of leading through service, humility and strong Christian values.
Our students represented Lighthouse Christian College with maturity and enthusiasm throughout the day, and we are excited to see how they apply what they have learned as they continue to serve our school community.
Mrs. Gosai-Jesudhason (Mrs. J)
Secondary Teacher and Head of Student Leadership
Developing Leaders for Service and Impact
Throughout Semester 1, our 2026 Student Leadership Team (Secondary School Leaders and SRC’s) had the privilege of attending two significant leadership development events: the Melbourne Secondary Youth Leadership Conference hosted by Youth Leadership Academy Australia (YLAA) and the GRIP Leadership Conference. These experiences provided our student leaders with valuable opportunities to develop their leadership skills, build confidence, and explore how they can make a positive impact within our school and wider community.
First, our year 11-12 students attended the Melbourne Secondary Youth Leadership Conference at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The conference challenged students to explore the concept of self-leadership and discover how leadership begins with understanding one's own values, strengths and potential. Through keynote presentations, interactive workshops and collaborative activities, students developed skills in communication, problem-solving, resilience and servant leadership. They were inspired by speakers including Olympic gold medallist Mack Horton, anti-bullying advocate Lucy Thomas OAM, and YLAA founder Wil Massara, who encouraged students to lead with courage, authenticity and purpose. The conference emphasised that young people have the ability to create meaningful change within their schools and communities.
Not long after, our SRC Leaders attended the GRIP Leadership Conference, where the 2026 theme, "I Accept the Challenge", encouraged students to recognise that leadership is not about choosing what is easy, but about stepping forward to address what is necessary. Students participated in engaging presentations, discussions, leadership activities and elective workshops focused on public speaking, event planning, creating inclusive school cultures and turning ideas into action. The conference challenged students to identify areas of need within their school community and develop practical strategies to create positive change.
Both conferences strongly reinforced our Lighthouse HEART values of Humility, Empowerment, Authenticity, Respect and Tenacity, while encouraging students to embrace servant leadership and use their gifts to serve others. Our student leaders returned with renewed enthusiasm, practical leadership tools and a deeper understanding of how they can contribute to building a positive and Christ-centred school culture.
We look forward to seeing the impact of their learning as they continue to lead, serve and inspire others throughout the year.
Mrs. Gosai-Jesudhason (Mrs. J)
Secondary Teacher and Head of Student Leadership
Secondary Student Leadership Applications are NOW OPEN!
VM Café
This week, our VM students did an amazing job running the café. The students worked diligently throughout the day, taking responsibility for food preparation, service, sales, and supporting one another in their roles.
The café was a huge success and provided a valuable learning experience for the students as they applied practical skills in a real-world setting. It was encouraging to see their teamwork, organisation, communication, and confidence grow as they worked together to serve staff and students.
A big congratulations to the VM students for their hard work and commitment in making the café such a successful and enjoyable experience.
Christopher Surendra
Head of Christian Studies
LIGHTHOUSE CHURCH NEWS
SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMS
This program provides a supportive space for participants to build drama skills, connect with peers, and share their experiences through creative expression. Across the program, young people will take part in theatre-based games and activities, and work towards creating a short performance piece (e.g. monologue or short scene) based on their own story. The program will conclude with a celebration night, where filmed performances will be shared with friends and family.
Program details:
• When: Wednesdays, 22 July – 16 September 2026 (Term 3)
• Location: Dandenong
• Time: 4:30pm – 6:30pm
• Ages: 12–18 years
• Cost: Free
Eligibility:
• Aged 12–18 years (primary school students not eligible)
• Live, study, work, or have a connection to the City of Greater Dandenong
• Identify as neurodivergent (please note: a formal diagnosis is not required)
• Able to participate independently in weekly 2-hour sessions
• Interested in creating and sharing their own theatre piece.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to discuss further or find out more about the program using this link:
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.