Leadership Report
Principal's Piece
The Mustard Seed
32 [The mustard seed] indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof. - Matthew 13:32 KJV
With the varied responses regarding the passing of Charlie Kirk filling our social media feeds, it should be no surprise that our students are talking and asking questions as they reflect on Charlie's life and work. While polarising, Charlie was well known amongst our secondary students, many of whom followed him online. Whether or not you align with his politics or his theological positions, his deep desire to uphold and defend the tenets of his Christian faith is commendable.
As I ponder the many conversations that I have had with students on the topic of Charlie Kirk over the past week or two, one of the more interesting ones is the question of, “What will my impact on the world be?” And what an interesting but fair question this is for a young person to ponder. Excitingly, the answer will only come in hindsight after a long and hopefully well-lived life striving to be the best we can be in the service of the Lord.
My concern, though, is that in a culture that equates fame with influence, students forget that genuine impact is not inextricably linked to fame or notoriety. Very few people who commit their lives to the Lord are called to be famous. In fact, the majority of us are called to fulfil much less notable roles in the world. Less notable, however, does not mean less impactful.
I am greatly encouraged by the story of a small village minister in England. Untrained, he spent his entire life within his small community serving faithfully as the village pastor. In his congregation was a young man to whom he encouraged and taught the word of God. That young man was William Carey, who became one of the greatest missionaries in history.
The village minister also had a son, to whom he similarly encouraged and taught the word of God. The commitment and dedication to his son had a lasting impact; he grew up to be widely considered the greatest public orator of his time. Robert Hall became known for his character, powerful preaching, and sermons that influenced many.
In hindsight, we can see that a humble village minister who, while remaining relatively unknown (except for a college newsletter or two), did, in fact, do great things. Thanks to this small village minister, India got William Carey, and England got Robert Hall.
My encouragement to all of us is to remember that even the smallest action can lead to great things. These things may not make us famous, but without us faithfully playing our part, great things may not happen.
Not all of us are called to be famous, but we are all called to faithfully serve the Lord with the gifts and talents he gave us. In this, we can be confident that as we serve, we are doing God's work, even if we can't see it at the time.
Andrew Manning, Principal
Letter from the Board
Dear Bayside Christian College Community,
We want to update you on some ways we are preparing for the next phase of Bayside's journey, and how we can make way for its future flourishing. The Board recently engaged Christian Education National to conduct a Structural Review.
The review aimed to identify key mechanisms we can engage to further strengthen the school and faithfully fulfil our vision and mission. The review identified that Bayside has strong foundations, and so is well placed for further growth and improvement. It also suggested some potential structural changes that will allow us to deepen our focus on educational rigour.
An important aspect of the planned investment in teaching and learning will be the creation of curriculum leadership roles in both Junior and Secondary. These roles will enhance instructional leadership, support the practice and development of teaching staff and provide pathways for educational leadership within the College.
The Board is also committed to sound financial stewardship, including how the new positions will be funded. We have therefore come to the difficult decision that the role of Deputy Principal will not be able to continue into 2026. This means that we will be farewelling Toni Steinbergs and recognising her long and dedicated service to the College, later this year. Toni is graciously working to ensure the College is able to function effectively with the new structure next year, and we are very grateful for her expertise and faithful efforts on this.
While some of these changes bring sadness, we are trusting God's leading as we enter a new season for the College. The Board is very grateful for your prayers and support. Please continue to pray for school leaders, staff and families during this time, and for Stephan Munyard and his family as they prepare to join us next year.
Yours in Christ,
Troy Gaskell, Board Chair
Notice of Intention to Withdraw from the College
Planning is well underway for the 2026 school year. If you are intending to withdraw a child/ren from the college at the end of this year please ensure you provide the necessary written full term’s notice before the start of Term 4.
This should be emailed to both the Registrar registrar@baysidecc.vic.edu.au and Principal, Mr Andrew Manning andrew.manning@baysidecc.vic.edu.au
A full term’s fees will be charged where the required full term’s notice is not provided. We recommend you provide notice even if your plans are not yet confirmed.