Celebrating Harmony, Wellbeing and New Arrivals 

Last week was an exciting one in Year 3. First, we received the happy news of the safe arrival of Ms Reale’s baby boy Tanner and then the students in Ms Griffin’s Year 3 class met their new teacher, Ms Kylie Ingle.

We ended the week farewelling Ms Griffin as she started her maternity leave. 

Friendly Competition at House Athletics Carnival

On Thursday, 18 March, the Senior School staff and students enjoyed a day of fun and friendly competition at the House Athletics Carnival. We were blessed with beautiful weather, which contributed to the positive atmosphere of the day.

On the track we saw great examples of endurance, endeavour, and resilience. Off the track we saw great examples camaraderie, compassion and sportspersonship.

I would like to thank our Head of Sport, Ms Fern Schreuder, for her exceptional work in putting the carnival together, and to all staff members who each performed an important duty which made the day run so smoothly.

Most of all, I would like to thank the Senior School students for making the day so positive, respectful, and enjoyable. Congratulations to Reid House, which was the overall winner. 

Wellbeing Days Foster Respect

The Senior School year level Wellbeing Days have been a huge success this term. Year 8 Wellbeing Day was on 4 March and the Year 9 day was on 9 March. On these days, the students were given the opportunity to discuss respectful relationships and to consider a range of social issues from other peoples’ perspective.

These days provide important learnings for all young people as they navigate the difficulties of learning more about themselves, each other, and the world around them.

Parents and Carers Attend Information Night

On 10 March, our Junior School staff were very pleased to be able to hold their Parent Information Night. This evening had been postponed a couple of times and staff were poised to deliver their information through pre-recorded video messages.

But, happily, COVID restrictions were lifted to the point where we could have one parent or carer attend. Junior School staff members were genuinely excited to finally have a face-to-face parent/carer meeting in their classrooms. It was a very positive evening.

Harmony Week Highlights School Values

This week we are celebrating Harmony week. Thanks to the work of our School Chaplain Ms Riviere Pendle and other key staff, we have a range of wonderful Harmony Week activities for the students to enjoy.

Each activity will highlight the importance of living by our School Values of Respect, Compassion, Inclusion, and Integrity to create a harmonious community.

Rugby Jumpers in Stock

I have received word from the uniform shop that the new PE Rugby jumpers are now in stock. A reminder that these Rugby tops have been introduced to provide an additional layer to the Senior School PE uniform, as the Senior School students do not wear the blue PE Windcheater.

Junior School parents can purchase the blue windcheater with confidence that their child can continue to wear it.

Continuing Conversations on Consent

The issue of consent continues to dominate the media. Over the past few weeks our Senior School Wellbeing, Health and PE teachers have been having conversations with their students regarding this issue.

We encourage open dialogue in a safe and supportive environment. We welcome the opinions and views of our young men and women around this difficult issue.

Teaching Children about Boundaries

For parents of younger children, I commend the following article to you which is from the Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) Parent Portal. The article talks about the importance of educating young children about their anatomy so they can be clear in talking about themselves and their bodies.

It recommends 10 children’s books which can assist you in having important conversations with your child and which can help you teach them about boundaries.  

Click on this link to access the article.

Fiona Williams

Principal