Year 5 Camp – Sovereign Hill

Last week, our Year 5 students had the exciting opportunity to attend a two day camp at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat, as part of our Curiosity unit on the Australian Gold Rush.

Throughout the camp, students were fully immersed in life as it was in the 1850s. They participated in an engaging education session, exploring historical household items and practising their cursive writing using ink pens. They had the chance to pan for gold, venture through underground mines, and observe a live gold pour, discovering that a 3kg bar of gold is worth over $500,000!

Students also watched candles being made using freshly melted wax, and dipped them in dye to add colour. They enjoyed a few rounds of old-fashioned bowling and of course, stopped by the iconic lolly shop to pick up some signature raspberry drops.

A highlight of the camp was AURA night show, a 90-minute immersive sound and light show that used stunning projection technology to tell the story of gold, from its creation to its discovery on Wadawurrung Country and its impact on Ballarat today. Students moved through different theatres exploring the science of gold, the story of Bunjil and the Eureka Rebellion. It was engaging, educational and exciting.

The camp was not only a fun-filled adventure but also a valuable learning experience, helping to deepen students’ understanding of the Gold Rush period. We are so proud of how engaged, curious and respectful the Year 5 students were throughout the experience.

A thank you to all the staff who attended and supported the students. The Year 5 teachers are looking forward to seeing the students apply their new knowledge in their end of term Gold Rush projects!

Every Day Counts at Hazel Glen College

At Hazel Glen College, we place a strong emphasis on the importance of attending school every day.

What Does 90% Attendance Really Mean?

90% might sound like a great score on a test but when it comes to school attendance, it tells a different story. A 90% attendance rate means that a student has already missed 10 or more days of school in a single Semester. That’s the equivalent of two full weeks of learning time and over the course of a year, it adds up to a month of missed school.

Even when absences are explained, due to illness, family commitments, or other reasons. Missing regular class time can have a big impact on a child’s academic progress, confidence, and sense of belonging at school. Learning is a progression that is built upon each day, which can make it easy for students to miss key concepts or rich classroom discussions, resulting in impacts on your child' academic development.

Why Attendance Matters

Every day at our College plays a vital role in your child’s growth and success. Regular attendance helps your child to:

Build strong foundations by developing essential skills and knowledge across all learning areas
Grow socially and emotionally through friendships and daily interactions that boost confidence and a sense of belonging
Stay on track with their learning, reducing the risk of falling behind and feeling overwhelmed

Understanding Attendance Categories

To help families monitor attendance, we use the following categories:

Repeated Absences: 5–10 days absent per term
Ongoing At-Risk Absence: 11–15 days absent per term
Chronic Absence: 16–25 days absent per term

We understand there are times when absences are unavoidable, such as due to illness. However, regular attendance and punctuality are key to your child’s academic progress, social development, and overall wellbeing.

Supporting Your Child’s Attendance

Setting up positive routines and addressing attendance concerns early can help your child feel more engaged and connected at school. Here are some practical ways you can support regular attendance:

Talk to your child about school. Ask how they feel about school life, what they enjoy and whether anything is worrying them
Watch for common issues, such as:
- Bullying or cyberbullying
- Feeling isolated or disconnected
- Struggles with schoolwork or feeling overwhelmed
- Lack of engagement with subjects
- Difficulties with friendships or teacher relationships
- Competing commitments or lack of motivation
- Feeling misunderstood or culturally excluded
Celebrate attendance milestones. Acknowledge and encourage consistency and punctuality
Model commitment by showing how you follow through with your own responsibilities
Encourage involvement in school activities, such as sports, clubs, or other interests. These can help build friendships and a stronger sense of belonging
Establish consistent routines, including:
- Getting a good night’s sleep
- Finishing homework
- Packing school bags the night before
- Having breakfast and getting ready on time
- Organising travel arrangements, such as walking with a friend

Let’s Work Together

Remember every day counts. If you have concerns about your child’s attendance, please reach out to their classroom teacher to discuss a plan moving forward. Together, we can work towards a positive, consistent school experience for your child.

Sports Update

Outstanding Performances by Our Soccer Teams

Our boys’ and girls’ soccer teams have delivered outstanding performances this season, displaying both exceptional skill and character. Both teams powered through the district rounds undefeated, which is a remarkable achievement reflecting their dedication, teamwork, and resilience. Their unwavering spirit and commitment saw them through a challenging series of matches, and they entered the District Final on 31st of July in outstanding form.

On Thursday, 31st of July, both teams competed with exceptional energy and sportsmanship at the District Final. The boys’ team finished a commendable 4th, while the girls’ team secured 5th place. Though they narrowly missed podium positions, their performance was nothing short of admirable.

More Than Just Results

What truly stood out was how both teams embodied our school values throughout:

Respect – Players and supporters alike demonstrated courtesy towards opponents, referees, and one another.
Responsibility – Each student showed accountability in training, preparation, and during matches.
Resilience – After tough moments, both teams bounced back, refusing to give up.
Relationships – The camaraderie among teammates and the support from our school community were heartening.

Please join us in congratulating both teams for a stellar season — not just for their results, but for the pride, unity, and school spirit they’ve shown. Well done!

Year 5 Senior Years Canteen Visit

This week, the Year 5 students enjoyed a special visit to the Senior Years canteen, where they had the opportunity to purchase their recess snack. This initiative is helping to build connections between the Primary and Senior years, fostering a sense of community and familiarity with the Senior Years environment. As part of their transition journey, students enjoyed choosing from a variety of treats, including hot jam doughnuts, potato cakes, chicken nibbles, waffles and refreshing cold drinks. The experience not only offered a delicious break but also supported students in feeling confident and comfortable as they prepare for their future years in the Senior School.

Year 4 Camp

The Year 4 students attended Lady Northcote Discovery Camp for three days and two nights, enjoying a range of exciting and challenging activities. Students took part in canoeing, archery, initiatives, orienteering, giant swing, and frisbee golf. Each activity encouraged teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving while giving students the chance to try something new in a supportive environment.

Evenings were filled with fun and laughter. One night, students danced and celebrated together at a camp disco, while another night was more relaxed with a movie screening that gave everyone a chance to wind down after a big day of outdoor adventures. Both evenings helped build friendships and create shared memories.

On the final day, the whole group came together for a large team challenge, bringing together the skills and cooperation they had developed throughout the camp. It was a wonderful way to finish the experience, with students showing enthusiasm, encouragement, and determination. Overall, the camp was an unforgettable experience filled with new skills, friendships, and a strong sense of achievement.

Science Week

During our Primary Years year level assemblies, our students were visited by a group of enthusiastic Year 9 students who came to share the excitement of Science Week. As part of their presentation, the Year 9s introduced an engaging and hands-on experiment known as “Elephant Toothpaste.” With a mixture of curiosity and awe, our students watched as colourful foam rapidly expanded, creating a spectacular chemical reaction. The visit not only sparked interest in science but also helped build connections between the primary and secondary students, showing how learning can be fun, inspiring, and full of surprises.

Hazel Glen College Primary Years

One College. Everyone Matters.

2025 Term 3, Week 4 · 15 Aug 2025

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