Co Curriculum
Discover Your Passions and Shine
Overnewton's Co Curricular Program enriches learning beyond the classroom, nurturing the whole child. These opportunities foster meaningful connections, support personal growth, and help students shape their sense of self within a supportive and vibrant community.
House - A Strong Sense of Belonging
All students are assigned to one of four Houses when they begin at Overnewton, with siblings joining the same House. The House system becomes an important part of each child’s identity with their colours being worn proudly on sports days and during House events. A deep sense of connection is strengthened through the various shared experiences and traditions that take place throughout each year.
Led by House Coordinators and Year 8 House Leaders, the Middle School House Programs foster teamwork, leadership, and cross-age connections. Through clubs, activities, and events, students engage with peers and teachers while stepping out of their comfort zones. Opportunities include Swimming, Cross Country, Athletics, Lunchtime Round Robins, Battle of the Houses, Debating, Public Speaking, and Community Service.
Activate
Activate allows students to participate, develop, and perform in various sports. They can develop leadership skills through team captaincy, improve athletic abilities, take pride in their achievements, and demonstrate sportsmanship.
In Years 5 and 6, students compete weekly in an interschool sporting program under School Sport Victoria (SSV). Competitions are available at district, zone, regional, and national levels.
In Years 7 and 8, students participate in a seasonal weekly interschool program through the Association of Co-Educational Schools (ACS), with opportunities to compete in swimming, cross country, and athletics carnivals, alongside other sports like chess and cheerleading.
Be Heard
Debating develops critical thinking, public speaking, and argumentation skills. Students can participate in Middle School House Debating, the Debaters Association of Victoria (DAV) for Years 8–12, and British Parliamentary Debating for Years 7–9.
Students across various year levels also have the opportunity to enter public speaking competitions such as Rostrum Voice of Youth, DAV Junior Public Speaking competition for Years 7–8, ACS Public Speaking, and the Legacy Public Speaking competition.
Performing Arts
Students are provided with opportunities to develop and express their ideas through the Performing Arts Co Curriculum. Each event offers a live audience, allowing students to build teamwork, self-esteem, and self-worth. They are encouraged to explore their creative and artistic talents by participating in our extensive dance and drama programs, including the Year 5/6 Musical, the College Musical (Years 7–12) and the 'Battle of the Houses' competition.
Students also have access to a comprehensive Music Program from Prep to Year 12, with expert tuition in various instruments, and opportunities to perform in instrumental groups, choirs, and music ensembles. Performance examinations, including AMEB and ANZCA, are available for students seeking further development.
Synergy
Overnewton fosters influential students who grow as individuals and leaders, guided by Christian values of service and social justice. We aim to create ethical, compassionate thinkers who take action.
Student voice, agency, and leadership are central to the Synergy Pillar, with our service-learning model offering hands-on experiences and personal reflection.
Middle School students can participate in groups such as the Student Representative Council, Sustainability Team and RAP Committee.
