Purpose changes everything

In a child’s education, purpose is often overlooked.

When it is present, it ignites children from within, brings new meaning, and guides them for life. At Norwest Christian College, minds are opened and hearts are enlivened, so our students not only discover the world,  but have the strength to achieve their purpose in it.

Purpose brings meaning and clarity to every aspect of life. At Norwest Christian College we are committed to ensuring that each young person in our care knows that they have a God-given purpose and are equipped to capably pursue that purpose. To do this, we partner with parents to grow confident, capable and compassionate learners.

Young people develop confidence in an environment where they are encouraged to know who they are and who they were created to be. Our staff are committed to ensuring that every young person comes to know that they are loved by God, known by God, and that He has a plan for their lives.

Our focus on developing both the knowledge and skills required for powerful learning enables each young person to grow their capacity so that they can competently pursue their purpose. Our focus on excellence inspires students to aim for their personal best in all that they do.

Together we look forward to partnering with you in your journey towards a fulfilling and inspiring future for your child, in a place where Jesus is given His rightful place, and students are supported and connected as part of a close-knit community that encourages them to Love God, Pursue their Purpose, and Build their Capacity.

Felicity Marlow, Principal

“To know your purpose is a wonderful gift.”

“The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.”

Consistency in the lives of children and young people produces better outcomes, so teamwork between teachers is essential. However, just as crucial is the teamwork between parents, between parents

and other carers, and the teamwork between parents and educators. In striving for this consistency for our students we seek to form an effective partnership with College families, working alongside parents and other carers to successfully nurture and teach each precious child.

Consistency

Our whole school approach to all that we do unites educators across the College in both purpose and practice. Our Building Purposeful Lives (BPL) framework enhances consistency of language in conversations about learning and life. College families also find BPL very useful in framing the conversations they have with their children. Finally, BPL enables parents and educators to work together to provide the desired consistency between their child’s time at school and at home. To enable our parent community to grow in their understanding of BPL, so that they can maximise the effectiveness of the partnership they have with us, the College provides an ongoing program of informative workshops.

Teamwork

A close working partnership between parents and educators is key to our teamwork, as is the wealth of online information we make available to parents, including class schedules, events, academic progress, attendance, and school reports. We are committed to clear, open communication with parents to facilitate co-planning, to forge shared solutions to challenges, and to make adjustments proactively.

Transitions

From pre-school through graduation, each child’s journey is carefully managed year to year. In partnership with families, educators work together to ensure the learning, wellbeing, social, and behavioural needs of each student are being met.

Partnership

– Sydney J Harris

“The language my children use at home reflects their learning at school. Even when completing chores, or during family discussions at dinner, the BPL dispositions help me as a parent to equip my children and encourage them to love God and pursue the purpose He has given to them.”

– Paul, Parent

BPL Framework

“Our teachers are innovative. They provide variety in our learning experiences and really focus on engaging us in developing skills for life.”

“BPL helps our students to become more focused, giving them the confidence to explain and articulate their learning, becoming more enthusiastic and positive learners.”

– Thomas, Student – Nicole, Teacher

Heart and Vision

We believe that to be successful in life we need to get the heart right, because our direction and motivation comes from deep within us. We also need to develop the capacities that will equip us to fulfil the exciting vision we develop for our lives.

Love God

We seek to love God by faith, asking Him to give us both wisdom and virtue, so that we might love and serve those around us.

Engage

We engage with the world by carefully noticing our surroundings and by immersing ourselves in experiences to learn as much as possible, focusing and persevering where required.

Manage

We manage our lives through planning, resourcing ourselves well, and reviewing our progress as we go, adjusting as necessary. We then reflectively distil as much learning as possible from every experience.

Pursue our Purpose

We pursue our purpose by discovering our gifts and passions and surrounding ourselves with a network of likeminded people. We then live a life full of confidence and integrity, focused on aspirational goals.

Build your Capacity

To achieve this we build our capacity to manage ourselves in an organised and creative way, to engage with the world, and relate to others.

Create

We create things that add value to the world by questioning how things are, and using our imagination and reasoning to link ideas together to make new possibilities.

Relate

We relate to those around us using various forms of communication, empathising with different perspectives, and emulating others’ strengths as we collaborate.

Direction and Motivation

Building Purposeful Lives (BPL) is our framework for learning and for life, and sits at the centre of all that we do. BPL encompasses our vision for each member of our community and reflects beautifully our values, as well as the way we seek to live; children, young people, and adults together, at school and in the real world, both now and for the rest of our lives.

Build Your Capacity

The Building Purposeful Lives (BPL) framework includes sixteen key dispositions that enable young people to be great learners and to become confident, successful adults, able to tackle the challenges presented to them in an ever-changing world.

Our team of hand-picked, highly-qualified, and talented staff not only challenge students to think critically and independently, but also help them discover their purpose and succeed in fulfilling it.

Through collaboration and mentorship, and with a common belief in the Lord Jesus Christ, our staff have formed a strong community amongst themselves. They speak from the heart and teach from experience, because they themselves, are living their purpose.

Expert Educators

Our staff are passionately committed to creating an effective, enriching learning environment for our students. Each brings educational expertise and genuine care to the classroom, working closely with every student to challenge and engage them at every level.

Student-Teacher Mentorship

Each student is paired with an adult mentor to coach them in all areas of life. For primary students, this mentor is their class teacher; for secondary students, their Home Group mentor. Every day students and mentors meet to strengthen their relationships, faith, study techniques, interpersonal skills, and much more.

Model Learners

The best way to learn something is to teach it to others and the best teachers continue learning throughout their lives. Our teachers model life-long, deep and transformative learning to their students, making the learning process explicit, encouraging exploration and considered risk-taking, and even using their own challenges as learning opportunities for themselves and their students. They are always reading, collaborating and networking in order to continue to improve their classroom practice and better serve their students’ learning.

Teachers

“My teachers were always very open, honest, and supportive. I feel that having such positive role models really instilled a great work and study ethic in me.”

– Rebecca, Graduate

– Leonardo da Vinci

“Make your work to be in keeping with your purpose.”

Early Childhood

A strong educational beginning will impact the rest of a child’s life. Our early childhood education program not only jumpstarts a lifetime of learning, but also builds a foundation of confidence and

independence our students will forever carry. Cared for like they are our own and taught from a biblical worldview, our youngest students learn in a safe, nurturing environment where curiosity and creativity play a vital role.

Pre-school

Positive, stimulating and challenging experiences in their early years are very important. From age 3, children are provided with opportunities to explore, discover and build on their understanding of the world around them. They are supported in taking greater responsibility for their belongings, their actions and their environment.

Preparatory

In the year before school, children undertake a carefully planned Kindergarten readiness program to ensure they approach the transition to Kindergarten confidently. Educators focus on early literacy and numeracy skills, and provide a variety of opportunities to experience Primary routines and events, build connections with Primary students and educators, facilitating a seamless transition into Kindergarten and the ‘big school’ environment.

“My daughter loved Prep so much that she constantly counted down the days and wished she was there every day of the week.”

– Sue, Parent

– William Damon, Professor, Stanford University

“A sense of purpose is central to human wellbeing, especially for children.”

Part of Something Bigger

Our Pre-school and Preparatory students are an integral part of the College community and participate in a variety of Primary and whole-school events throughout the year, such as: Easter and Christmas Services; Mini Athletics Carnival; the College Cross Country Carnival; Harmony Day; Literacy Fun Day and Parade; and Mothers’ Day, Fathers’ Day, and Grandparents’ Day celebrations.

Creativity and Play

The Early Learning Centre provides indoor and outdoor spaces designed to ignite each child’s imagination, and provide them with opportunities to explore, discover and create in a play-based environment.

Accessible and Affordable

Open from 7am to 5pm and approved for the Child Care Subsidy, our early childhood education is accessible and affordable. Learn about government assistance at humanservices.gov.au

“The strong, supportive relationships students share with teachers are unique to this school.”

– Erin, Sudent

– Mother Teresa

“We have not come into the world to be numbered; we have been created for purpose.”

For K–6 students, the primary years are about discovering the world and finding their place in it. Because this is a formative time for growing children, our structured programs are carefully planned to

engage students physically, cognitively, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. By forming strong relationships with their students, teachers nurture each child’s unique personality and God-given gifts. Teachers ensure that each child feels secure and supported as they harness the skills and values they’ll use to fulfil their vision for a purposeful life.

Primary

Early Stage 1: Kindergarten Stage 1: Years 1 & 2 Stage 2: Years 3 & 4 Stage 3: Years 5 & 6

Curriculum

Our core curriculum supports students with a broad range of abilities and interests, ensuring they remain challenged and engaged in their learning of: • Creative Arts• English• Health and Personal Development• History and Geography• Mathematics• Physical Education• Science and Technology

Academic Extension Program

We offer extension in Mathematics and English that engages students in higher-order thinking. All other learning experiences are differentiated for all students, providing our advanced students the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding, more sophisticated skills and capabilities, and apply their learning to real world situations.

Digital Learning

From tablet devices to interactive TV screens, from drones to 3D printers, from Beebots to Sphero balls, technology plays a significant role in our learning. Our digitally rich environment includes online research, collaborative tasks, file sharing, multimedia content creation, coding, 3D object design, and more.

Fostering Creativity

Additional specialist programs broaden children’s minds and nurture their creativity:

• Design and Creative Arts Clubs• Chinese Language Instruction• Musical Theatre Productions• Instrumental Music Program: Kindy – Year 2: Vocal Performance, Percussion, and Movement Stage 2: Strings (Violin) Stage 3 Stream 1: Concert Band Stage 3 Stream 2: Strings Stage 3 Stream 3: Music Composition

Compass Transition Program

Our Year 6 students approach the transition to Year 7 with confidence because we help them build connections with Secondary educators and students, and develop the necessary skills for success, so that they already feel like part of the family.

Physical Activity

Our expansive campus enables our students to maintain a regular routine of physical activity. The Primary Physical Education program develops strength, coordination, skill, fitness, teamwork, and a love of movement.

Sport

Students can also experience the thrill of inter-school competition in sports such as athletics, cross-country, swimming, soccer, netball, basketball and cricket. Talented sportspersons may be selected to compete at State and National representative levels.

Outdoor Education

Stage 1

Swim School: For ten days, students develop water safety and swimming skills, grow in water confidence, and gain respect for aquatic environments.

Stage 2

Adventure Camp: Students practise their adventure and team-building skills at a wilderness campsite. Sleeping away from home, students learn life and leadership lessons from a Christian perspective.

Stage 3

Educational Camps: Curriculum is brought to life for Stage 3 students for three days each year, either reliving the Gold Rush at the Bathurst Goldfields or exploring the workings of the federal government in Canberra.

Primary

“I cannot thank the NWCC staff enough. You have loved, guided, and helped my daughter grow in ways I never imagined.”

– Jodie, Parent

Secondary

As emerging adults, secondary students begin to establish their own beliefs and ideals, deciding who they will become, identifying their purpose, and setting their direction for life. Under our guidance and

with the support of their peers, they begin to see their enormous potential flourish. As responsibilities for our young people grow at home, school and in the community, our positive, stimulating learning environment supports them as they develop into independent, resilient, purpose-driven young adults ready to be the local and global leaders of the future.

Stage 4: Years 7 & 8 Stage 5: Years 9 & 10 Stage 6: Years 11 & 12

Mentoring for Success

Our secondary students are assigned a personal mentor to help guide them through their high school years. This mentor provides students with academic and wellbeing support, building their capacity in interpersonal and organisational skills. Mentors also provide families with a primary contact, ensuring that the parent-school partnership is strong.

Academic Extension Program Streamed classes, extension courses, and effective differentiation of learning experiences provides our advanced students the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding, more sophisticated skills and capabilities, and apply their learning to real world situations.

Digital Learning

From online collaboration and file sharing, coding and robots, 3D design and printing, drones and computer construction, to multimedia content creation, the responsible and ethical use of technology enhances our learning.

Student Leadership

Secondary students are encouraged to put learned leadership values to work by serving in a leadership portfolio that aligns with their interests and passions, including ministry, student care, the arts, academics, and sport.

Creative and Performing Arts

Secondary students have the opportunity to participate in Junior and Senior Chapel Bands, Intermediate Band, Senior Band, Vocal Ensemble, Live@Norwest, Senior Soirée, performance evenings and musical theatre.

– Bishop T.D. Jakes

“Your passion will lead you right into your purpose.”

– Samuel, Student

“Life at Norwest Christian College is filled with opportunities, supported by our teachers, friends and parents. This presents us with a diverse array of possibilities to both excel academically and to mature in faith and character.”

Sport

Secondary students participate in a range of sports activities for enjoyment and the benefits physical activity brings to our wellbeing. Students can also experience the thrill of inter-school competition in sports such as athletics, cross-country, swimming, soccer, netball, basketball, volleyball, and touch football. Talented sportspersons may be selected to compete at State and National representative levels.

Outdoor Education

Stage 4

Advanced Outdoor Adventure Camp: From hiking to dragon boating, and abseiling to rock climbing, students spend three days each year growing in confidence and resilience, stretching their capacity to engage with challenging situations, and work in teams.

Stage 5

Urban Challenge: Year 9 students develop leadership, problem-solving, and independence skills when completing group challenges over three days in our harbour city.

Skiing and Snowboarding Trip: For five days, Year 10 students hit the alpine slopes, step outside their comfort zones, and discover afresh the value of perseverance.

Stage 6

City Mission: Set in Sydney for three days, Year 11 students serve the disadvantaged, widen perspectives, and make a difference.

Study Camp: In preparation for the HSC, Year 12 students take three days away to study and are mentored on study practices as well as physical and mental wellbeing.

SecondaryCurriculum

Our curriculum supports students with a broad range of abilities and interests, ensuring they remain challenged and engaged in their learning. Our subject offerings are as broad as many larger schools meaning class sizes are often smaller.

Stage 4

All courses are compulsory for all students • English• Geography• History• Chinese Language• Mathematics• Music• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education• Science• Visual Arts• Technology;

including food (earth to plate), digital (information & media), material and engineering technologies.

Stage 5

Core• English• Geography• History• Mathematics• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education• Science

Electives• Chinese Language• Commerce• Design and Technology• Drama• Food Technology• History• Information Software Technology• Music• Philosophy• Photography and Digital Media• Physical Activity and Sports Studies• Visual Arts

Stage 6

Two Unit Subjects• Ancient History• Biology • Business Studies• Chemistry• Community and Family Studies• Design and Technology• Drama• Economics• English: Standard & Advanced• Food Technology• Information Processes and Technology• Legal Studies• Mathematics: Standard & Advanced• Modern History• Music I & II• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education• Physics• Society and Culture• Studies of Religion II• Visual Arts

One Unit Extension Subjects• English Extension I & II• History Extension• Mathematics Extension I & II

Through the study of one Focused course during both Year 11 and Year 12, our Stage 6 students sit the HSC in one course whilst in Year 11. This increases their focus from the start of Year 11, reduces their Year 12 workload, and enables the lessons learned during Year 11 to benefit their performance in their Year 12 courses.

Note: Additional subjects are offered through external providers, including TAFE.

– Linda, Teacher– Pavarthy, Student

“My teachers understand me as a learner, are invested in seeing me excel and achieve my academic goals, and in helping me grow the skills I will need to confidently transition into University and life beyond.”

“Every person is exceptional at something. I am continually challenging students to harness their passion and mastery of other pursuits and apply this same degree of focus, practice, perseverance and commitment to excellence in their academic endeavours.

Community

At Norwest Christian College, our community nurtures people of faith, character, and purpose. With abundant sport opportunities, creative outlets, and social activities both in and out of the classroom, Norwest

students grow into well-rounded, respectful and resourceful individuals. We celebrate diversity and aim to grow young people of integrity, nurturing in every child the inner strength to pursue their purpose.

Christian Culture

Centred on biblical truth, our College is grounded in the Christian values of kindness, respect, and responsibility. We believe God has created each child for a relationship with Him and with a unique purpose in this world. Students of faith share with others through Primary and Secondary student led ministries.

The Arts

The Arts play an important role in both the curricular and extra-curricular life at the College and the development of students as well-rounded individuals. Every student has a God-given creative talent, and we seek to draw this out in the areas of:

Service and Missions

Students are trained to be aware of others’ needs and actively help when they can. Many opportunities are provided to serve locally, regionally, and even internationally. Students develop a global perspective growing in empathy, humility, and appreciation.

Other Extra-Curricular Opportunities

We offer a diverse selection of extra-curricular clubs and activities for Primary and Secondary students such as;

“Norwest instilled in me the importance of social justice and being a person who wholeheartedly and unconditionally loves others. These are the values that guide every decision that I make and will continue to inform the way I see myself and the people around me.”

– Lawrence, Graduate

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

“The purpose of life is to be useful, to be honourable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference.”

• Book Lovers • Chess• Coding• Creative Writing• Cultural Focus• Debating• Design & Construct

• Drama• Music• Musical Theatre

• Drawing• Gardening• Lego• Philosophy• Robotics• Science• Spelling Bee

• Photography• Videography• Visual Arts

Term 1 Term 2

• Camps Year 3-12• Celebration Morning Tea• Cross Country Carnival• ELC Meet ‘n’ Greet• ELC/Primary Disco• Family Welcome Dinner• Grandparents’ Day• Harmony Day• Korean Student homestay experience• Live@Norwest • Secondary BBQ Charity Fundraiser• Student Leadership Conference• Swimming Carnival

• Anzac Day Service• Athletics Carnival• Easter Service• ELC Meet ‘n’ Greet• Mothers’ Day Concert and Morning Tea• Live@Norwest• Riverstone Festival• Science Week• Secondary BBQ Charity Fundraiser• Secondary Disco• Secondary Musical Theatre Production

Community Events

From musicals to carnivals, concerts to camps, community events happen year-round. Here are a few highlights.

Community

Term 3 Term 4

• Book Week• Discover Asia Cultural Trip to Korea/China• ELC Meet ‘n’ Greet• Fathers’ Day Breakfast• Live@Norwest• Primary Musical Theatre Production• Secondary BBQ Charity Fundraiser• Senior Soirée - Stage 6 students showcase

of HSC creative and performance art• Ski Trip

• Cambodia Mission Trip• ELC Meet ‘n’ Greet• GLOW - Carols by glowstick• Movimento - Primary student

music showcase• Live@Norwest• Platinum Awards morning tea with Principal• Presentation Days• Secondary BBQ Charity Fundraiser• Summer Picnic Day

“Norwest is helping me explore my purpose in life. I know I have a plan and a purpose in God, and that my future lies in Him.”

– Sam, Student

“We are encouraged to make a difference in our local and global communities. Our mission trip to Cambodia changes people’s lives.”

– Katelyn, Student

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to apply?

We accept applications throughout the school year. For certain school years waiting lists can develop as the year progresses. It is best to enquire as early as possible to secure a place for your child.

Do we have to attend a church to enrol?

We welcome families who do not share our faith, however require both students and parents to respect and support the College’s Christian faith and values, and fully participate in all College programs with a positive attitude.

Do you offer a broad selection of subjects?

We offer a very wide range of subjects from Primary through to Year 12; as broad an offering as other much larger schools.

How do you handle bullying?

We encourage students not only to acknowledge the differences between people but to celebrate them. To ensure each child feels safe whilst at school we address strongly any incident of mistreatment and take a low-tolerance approach to bullies.

How do I apply for a scholarship?

Detailed information on academic, music and general excellence scholarships are available on our website. www.norwest.nsw.edu.au

Do you enrol Overseas Students?

We welcome overseas students and value the enrichment they bring to our community. We are committed to answering all enquiries and making each student feel welcome as they transition to a new environment.

Additional Services

Outside School Hours Care

Engaging programs are available on campus before and after school, as well as during term breaks.

Location & Transport

Norwest Christian College is set on 15 tranquil acres in the heart of Sydney’s fastest growing region. The College’s expansive, leafy landscape gives teachers and students scope to appreciate, discover, and explore the natural environment.

Our campus is conveniently located near local bus and train routes and is only a short drive from surrounding suburbs:

Further localities will be considered as the needs of our community change.

The new Northwest Rail Link will provide fresh transport opportiunities for some families in the years to come.

Our own fleet of buses service the needs of our community with stops available in the following neighbourhoods:

• Glendenning (15 min)• Glenwood (15 min)• Kellyville (11 min)• Marsden Park (7 min)• Pitt Town (16 min)

• Acacia Gardens• Beaumont Hills• Castle Hill• Glenhaven• Glenwood• Kellyville• Kellyville Ridge• Kings Langley

• Quakers Hills (10 min)• Richmond (20 min)• Rouse Hill (10 min)• The Ponds (9 min)• Windsor (13 min)

• Lalor Park• Quakers Hill• Rouse Hill• Schofields• Seven Hills• Stanhope Gardens• The Ponds

– Daniella, Parent – Ellesha, Student

“From the very first day, we could see the staff all working together to engage and build our son’s confidence, independence and enthusiasm about learning. We couldn’t be happier.”

“At Norwest I feel safe, happy, and supported in anything I do. The teachers are experts in their fields, and I always seem to feel enlightened when I’m with them.”

Enrolment

Enrol at Norwest Christian College and discover a place where children grow into young people of faith, independence, confidence, and motivation. Choose an education that embeds strength at

the core of each graduate, and equips them to be mentally, physically, and spiritually resilient because they have purpose; and with purpose, possibilities are endless.

Enrolment Process

Begin your relationship with us by engaging with our Student Enrolment Manager in a very personal and friendly process of discovering our beautiful College.

Application: Forward a completed Application for Enrolment form along with the required documentation and payment of the application fee.

Assessment: Applications are reviewed and assessed.

Interview: Eligible applicants will be invited to an interview where they will meet our Principal and have a tour of the campus if required.

Offer: Successful applicants will receive a letter of offer.

Acceptance: Return the completed Enrolment Agreement with payment of the enrolment fee by the offer expiry date.

Commencement: Families will receive further information to ensure that their child is well prepared for a great start at the College.

Open Days

Our Open Days are a wonderful way to experience the College, see the campus, and speak with staff and students. Details and registration available via the College website. www.norwest.nsw.edu.au

Tours

Tours are available and can be arranged by contacting our Student Enrolment Manager on (02) 8889 4600.

“We have watched our twins thrive in a nurturing environment looked after by the most caring and dedicated staff members. It is the best decision we made.”

– Melinda and Matt, Parents

“Purpose… separates those who are simplyliving from those who are truly alive.”– Alex Rogers, Author

CRICOS 02257C ABN 38 003 164 136 ©2017

Street AddressCorner Regent and McCulloch Streets Riverstone NSW 2765Australia

Mailing AddressPO Box 6335Rouse Hill Town Centre NSW 2155Australia

P: 02 8889 4600F: 02 9627 4637E: norwest@nwcc.nsw.edu.auW: www.norwest.nsw.edu.au

CRICOS 02257C ABN 38 003 164 136 ©2017