Commitment at Ellenbrook

Commitment at Ellenbrook Christian College 

WORDS: Michelle Cockrell

What a whirlwind term this has been, filled with countless opportunities for learning, celebration, and growth! As the year draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements and experiences that have shaped our school community in 2024. Through it all, our final value of the year,  Commitment,  has remained steadfast.

Commitment of Our Year 12 Students

We began the term by bidding farewell to our Year 12 cohort. Having received the final lessons and guidance from their teachers, they embarked on their exams with determination and focus. Their commitment to their studies was evident in their outstanding results, paving the way for bright futures in their chosen career paths.

This week, we celebrated the remarkable achievements of our ATAR students. Their dedication and perseverance have been truly inspiring, with two students achieving a remarkable 99.95 ATAR and six students attaining an ATAR  selection rank above 90.00 for West Australian university entry.

We have also had a number of students who completed various VET courses, workplace learning and certificates with some going on to further studies, apprenticeships and traineeships.

These results reflect not just individual effort but the collective spirit of hard work, perseverance and commitment that runs through our school.

Well done to all our Year 12 students!

Commitment on the Sports Field

Throughout the term, our students demonstrated unwavering dedication on the sports field. From early morning practices to fierce competitions, their hard work and team spirit showcased the essence of commitment. Each game and training session was a testament to their resilience, discipline, and determination to excel.

Our school placed third in the ACC Athletics Carnival, with the boys achieving an impressive second overall. In the ACC Swimming Carnival, our senior boys and senior girls emerged as champions of the day.

Commitment at School Camps

At the end of the term, our Year 9 students ventured to Lane Poole Reserve in Dwellingup for an unforgettable camp experience. Far from the comforts of home, they hiked, cycled, cooked their own meals, and worked collaboratively to overcome challenges.

These moments of growth and teamwork epitomised the value of commitment, as students pushed themselves beyond their limits and discovered new strengths.

Commitment from Teachers and Families

Teachers, too, embody commitment in every aspect of their work. They invest deeply in their students’ learning journeys, nurturing not only academic excellence but also personal and spiritual growth.

Families play an equally vital role, partnering with the school to create an environment where students feel supported and motivated to achieve their best.

A Christian Perspective on Commitment

As a Christian community, our understanding of commitment is deeply rooted in Scripture. Colossians 3:23 reminds us: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

This verse calls us to pursue excellence in every endeavour, not for personal recognition but as an act of faith and service to others. Commitment also inspires us to look beyond ourselves, urging us to serve our community and contribute positively to the lives of those around us.

Whether through service projects, leadership roles, or simple acts of kindness, commitment shines brightest when it uplifts others.

Looking Ahead

As we close the year, let us celebrate the many ways commitment has been lived out in our school. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our staff, students, and the entire school community for their support, dedication, and contributions to a successful 2024. Together, we have cultivated a culture of growth, resilience, and faith.

As Christmas approaches, let us not lose sight of the greatest example of commitment: our Saviour, who came to earth to bring us back to God. His birth reminds us of the hope and love that anchor our lives.

I wish you all a safe and joyful term break. May this festive season be filled with peace, joy, and time to cherish with loved ones. I look forward to welcoming our returning students and meeting new members of our school community in 2025.

Wrapping Up 2024 – End of Year Celebrations

It's awards season at ECC!

At the close of every school year, there comes several awards ceremonies where we honour and congratulate students who have distinguished themselves academically, socially and in sports. 

These assemblies give us the chance to celebrate the dedication and effort displayed by our students across the school year. Featuring performances from College choirs and bands, and plenty of supportive cheers, the 2024 celebrations have been joyful indeed!

In addition to College-based awards, participating students are eligible to receive the Duke of Edinburgh International Award, honouring their commitment and perseverance in their chosen field. More information about the Duke of Edinburgh award is available here. 

Finally, the close of the 2024 school year allows us to officially welcome our Student Leaders for 2025! We are excited to partner with our students. to continually build into the life of our College. 

Strings Program Student Highlight

Strings Program students shine in technical exams

Violin students Orlando and Emilio have achieved wonderful results in their recent AMEB exams. They, along with their sister Lily (pictured) are involved in ECC’s strings program. 

The AMEB violin exam requires students to be ready to play at a performance-ready standard, show fluency in scales, respond in real time to music heard, and play sight music. Receiving a credit (Orlando) and high distinction mark (Emilio), congratulations are in order for their hard work! 

Starting in Year 3, our strings program allows students to explore and develop their musical ability on the violin, viola, or cello. Learning opportunities in an ensemble environment also allows students to develop their teamwork and inter-personal skills – with the added benefit of a creative outlet.

We are excited to see how each of these students continues to progress in their violin studies!

Student Highlight: Year 7 Poem

Read on for a lovely, poetic encouragement of God’s grace, written by one of our Year 7 students.

In the Embrace of Grace

WORDS: Kuothekur B

I wandered through the darkest night, My heart weighed down, my soul in flight.

But then His love, like morning’s dawn, Broke through the clouds, my fears were gone.

Like a shepherd seeking every sheep, (Isaiah 40:11, in His care so deep), I felt His arms, strong and kind, Wrap around my weary mind.

His love, a river, vast and wide, Flowed through my heart, where pain did hide. It cleansed my soul, made me anew, And in His light, I found what’s true.

In Him, I found both strength and peace, (Philippians 4:13, all doubts released), His love, a fire, warm and bright, Guiding me through the darkest night.

No love on earth can quite compare, To His embrace, beyond all care. In stillness, I now rest and know, His grace will never let me go.

So now I walk, my faith restored, A child of God, forever adored.

For in His love, I am made whole, His precious grace, it fills my soul.

For today I was made new

Knowing that it was true

See I may not fast for 40 days

For I know I shall not runaway

Core Values: What does Community mean for our College?

WORDS: Michelle Cockrell

As I shared last month, our College is built upon three foundational pillars: Character, Commitment, and Community. This month, I would like to focus on Community, exploring its significance within our ECC family.

At Ellenbrook Christian College, we place a high value on the strength and unity found in community. 

Community isn’t just about being part of a group; it’s about forming bonds that uplift, challenge, and support each of us as we learn and grow together. Our goal and desire is for every student, family, and staff member to feel connected and valued as part of this greater family—where each person’s unique strengths and gifts contribute to the collective success and well-being of all. 

From the first page, the Bible tells us that we were created to enjoy a relationship with God (Genesis 1) and relationships with each other (Genesis 2). Our relationships bring us joy, but they may also bring challenges. For a community to thrive, where challenges or conflict exist, members seek to restore relationships by working together to understand, forgive, and build each other up with respect and compassion. By doing so, we build stronger connections that benefit one another and ultimately, the entire community. For all our students, we aim to make ‘community’ a lived experience that enriches their educational journey and develops character. As we continue to grow, we are committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels they belong, can thrive, serve, and contribute meaningfully.

Why does Community matter?

Research indicates that a sense of belonging instils accountability and respect for others, teaching students that their actions impact those around them. This understanding prepares our students to lead and serve beyond the school grounds, carrying with them the lessons of unity and cooperation that define a healthy community.

In recent weeks, we had the privilege of interviewing applicants for the 2025 Student Leadership Team. We were incredibly proud of these fine young men and women who articulated their thoughts, passions and vision for what could be. They are dreaming big! Well done Mums and Dads, you have done a superb job in raising your children and we feel deeply privileged to be partnering in this journey with you. Listening to these students share their reflections on the College, their teachers, and the ECC community was uplifting. Throughout the interviews, our prospective leaders shared numerous ideas for strengthening bonds between the Primary and Secondary communities. Their creativity and willingness to invest in others is inspiring, and we believe that we are indeed stronger together than we are alone.

Our desire is for all our students is to be prepared for life in all its richness, both during and beyond their school years. We seek to nurture them as lifelong learners—trustworthy, committed, informed, discerning, wise citizens, and compassionate community members.

Building Our Community Together

We are all called to actively contribute to the health and strength of our school community. It’s not merely an observation; it’s a commitment we make together. Let us encourage one another, respect our differences, and seek unity in all our endeavours, nurturing an environment where everyone feels they belong.

A final thought:

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

Thank you for being an integral part of our ECC community. Together, we look forward to celebrating this term’s milestones and witnessing the ongoing legacy of a supportive, thriving community at Ellenbrook Christian College.

IMAGE: Bible Study Tools

Farewell, Year 12s!

Dear Year 12 Students of 2024,

As we bid you farewell, we mark a special occasion—the culmination of 13 years of formal schooling. A significant milestone! It has been our privilege to watch you grow from little people into young adults ready to embrace the world. Your journey has been a testament to perseverance, growth, and character.

We want to express our heartfelt thanks to your parents and caregivers for their support and prayers. Together, we have formed a strong team, working toward your success. This partnership has been essential to shaping who you are today.

We also extend our deepest gratitude to your teachers for their dedication, not only in preparing you for the upcoming exams but also for the life ahead. Every member of our staff, from the Student Services ladies to the Finance, Administrative, Grounds and IT teams, EAs, and Teachers – each has played a significant role in being a role model and guiding light for you.

As you reflect on your time at ECC, we hope you carry warm memories of your time with us. We have seen you grow in your learning, character, and leadership, and we look forward to witnessing the bright futures that await you.

May God richly bless you and keep you as you embark on this exciting new chapter of life. Know that we are proud of you, we love you, and we will miss you dearly.

And finally, a Bible verse to guide you:

“And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
And to walk humbly with your God.”

Micah 6:8

 With every blessing,

Mrs Michelle Cockrell and the Staff at ECC

Awareness is key – supporting students with ADHD + DLD

Awareness is key - supporting students with ADHD + DLD

WORDS:  Danielle Grisham, Head of Learning Support

I suspect, like me, you often feel bombarded with awareness days/months, and this month is no different. October is ADHD awareness month and DLD (Developmental Language Disorder) Day is on the 18th of October. But these days serve a purpose. They seek to communicate about topics which may be misunderstood, remove barriers and challenge misconceptions.

“Awareness is Key!”

The 2024 ADHD Awareness Month theme is “Awareness is Key!” Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 5-7% of Australians.  The name itself is misleading – ADHD is not really a deficit in attention; people with ADHD tend to have difficulties regulating their attention – they either hyperfocus (all their attention is focused on one thing), or their attention is scattered on many things. ADHD affects the pre-frontal cortex which assists with executive functions. Executive functions are a set of skills which underlie the capacity to plan ahead and meet goals, display self-control, follow multiple-step directions, stay focused despite distractions, and manage emotions. In a classroom, it could look like:

  • Difficulty planning assessments and handing them in on time, or avoiding tasks when they seem overwhelming
  • Being distracted in class and needing to move/fidget
  • Managing anger and frustrations
  • Needing reminders to work quietly (talks excessively or interrupts)
  • Difficulty following instructions
  • Making and keeping friends
  • Misplacing work or items such as water bottles and hats
  • Say/do something and regret it instantly (impulsive)
That list looks overwhelming. And for many students and parents it can be. We know that a child (and adult’s) wellbeing outcomes are much better when difficulties due to ADHD are acknowledged and managed, including teaching a child the skills they need to be successful. As a child, it was always my name I heard in class – “Danielle, stop talking”, “Danielle, stop daydreaming”, “Danielle, do your work”. I would often think that I was broken – why were these things so easy for my classmates, but so hard for me? I can remember in high school making a deal with myself that I would not talk until recess. It didn’t last 5 minutes, and some may say I still talk a lot. Without acknowledging these difficulties, it is hard to work on skill building.
 
I would be remiss if I did not mention the amazing attributes that ADHD brings too. A person with ADHD is creative (thinking of unusual solutions because of their different perspectives and quick thinking), justice seeking, resilient, curious, spontaneous, courageous, innovative and energetic. As they often have to work on certain skills, they can become self-reflective and self-aware, sometimes more so than their neurotypical peers.

Developmental Language Disorder

DLD is a hidden but common disability that affects 1 in 14 people causing difficulties understanding and using language. It is important to note that the cause of DLD is unclear and it usually starts to show in early childhood. DLD may affect social interactions such as conversations, making and keeping friends and solving social problems, and learning, including managing attention.

When we talk about language, we include expressive language (what we say) and receptive language (what we understand). If a child is having difficulties with their expressive language, they may find it hard to use correct grammar, have a limited vocabulary, and express their ideas, thoughts and feelings in a clear and organised manner. If a child has receptive language difficulties, they may find it hard to follow instructions, understand complex vocabulary, comprehend questions and texts, and follow conversations.

As we live in a language rich world, we can help our DLD kids by:

  • Using clear and explicit language
  • Repeat key phrases and instructions
  • Use Key Word Sign or non-verbal body language to support verbal/spoken language
  • Use multimodal supports such as visuals, graphic organisers, videos, etc.
  • Give chunks of information (not all information at once)
  • Support vocabulary acquisition (explain new words, support with visuals)
  • Allow for processing time

Awareness is key! With awareness we can support our children and create a safe environment where they can thrive and learn.

If you would like to learn more about ADHD or DLD, please feel free to contact me at the College.

Helpful  Links 

For further information about ADHD and DLD, and support strategies, please see the links below:

ADHD websites
CHADD
What is ADHD?

ADHD Services
ADHD WA
Free Online ADHD Course

DLD websites
DLD and Me
The DLD Project

Contact Danielle here

Year 10 Camp 2024 Highlights

This year, our Year 10 students headed out to the scenic Yanchep National Park for three days for a memorable adventure camp experience! Based in the recently restored Gloucester Lodge, the year group spent the time being challenged through a variety of outdoor activities and as they battled through the rainy weather all camp long.

Staying in the Yanchep National park allowed students to get outside and into nature by participating in the Treetops Adventures high ropes course, a tour of the Crystal Cave and Boomerang Gorge, hikes and even spotted a few koalas!

Time for rest and relaxation included beach games (plus a few brave souls who ventured into the icy water!) night games as a group and a scenic wildflower walk.

Not only did this camp provide an opportunity for adventure and fun; it is a key part of building community into our College’s year groups. As our students spent time making memories together on camp, we pray that they will continue to bond in a classroom environment – now and in the years to come.

Year 8 Salvation Army Homeless Sleepout

September saw our Year 8 students taking part in a Homeless Sleepout supported by the Salvation Army. This event aims to raise awareness around the challenges faced by unhoused Australians. For our students, this was a wonderful opportunity to grow in empathy and understanding towards members of our community who are doing it tough.

With little more than a sleeping bag, our students spent the night gaining firsthand experience into what sleeping rough can feel like. This was followed by a day of engagement in different community service activities, where our Year 8s were able to give back to our local community and continue to grow in compassion towards others.

We are so proud of our students and their willingness to love and serve their community!