From the Principal

As we near the end of another productive term at Girton, I would like to reflect on the importance of embracing change and the value we place on consultation within our School community.

During a recent Assembly, I had the opportunity to delve into the concept of change and its biological significance in our ever-evolving world. Just as organisms adapt and change in response to environmental pressures, we too must be open to change for growth and progress. While change can sometimes be uncomfortable from an emotional standpoint, it is crucial in shaping our future.

In light of this, I shared two inspiring examples of individuals within our community who recognised the need for improvement and took the initiative to propose solutions. Year 12 Prefects, Maddy Dole and Miriam Henery, approached me with a unique idea for a personalised House scarf exclusively for the Year 12 cohort. With careful consideration given to various options, designs, and costs, they ensured that their proposal aligned with our policies on personal presentation. What truly impressed me was their dedication to conducting extensive consultations with Year 11 and 12 students, as well as parents, to gather invaluable insights. I am pleased to announce that from late July this year, Year 12 students will have the option to purchase this special House scarf.

During the consultation process, some Year 12 students expressed their preference for a beanie. Recognising the merit of their suggestion, I saw an opportunity to address the needs of all students, especially considering the chilly Bendigo winters. Working collaboratively with Maddy, Miriam, and Mr Mark Beever, Head of Community Relations, we have developed a beanie design that will be available for purchase from Saturday 10th June from Bob Stewart at a cost of $19.95. Please note that this beanie is designated for outdoor wear only and must be removed upon entering any School building, hallway, classroom, or gymnasium. Our Student Uniform and Personal Presentation Policy has been updated accordingly.

Looking ahead to 2024, I am excited to announce our plans to introduce a second knitted beanie featuring a pom pom design. Our team is already hard at work on the design, and we eagerly await the opportunity to unveil it in due course.

In another instance of positive change, Junior School teacher Mrs Erin Moss noticed that students participating in the netball co-curricular were often left feeling cold due to the inadequately warm PE uniform. Acknowledging the validity of Mrs Moss's observation, we have secured approval from the Girton Board to introduce a warm fleece quarter-zip top as a winter alternative to the current PE top. This valuable addition to our PE Uniform Suite will be available next term and will ensure our students stay warm during colder weather.

At Girton, our aspiration is to foster a community that actively seeks opportunities for improvement, both in what we do and how we do it, for the benefit of all community members and future generations. It is in this spirit that we continue to work closely with Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) in addressing the government's decision to remove payroll tax exemptions for non-government 'high fee' schools. We firmly believe that such removal will present challenges for many schools in maintaining the same level of service without sacrificing in other areas. What is most disheartening is the lack of consultation accompanying this decision, disregarding the valuable input and perspectives of educational institutions like ours. As a School, we will continue to collaborate with ISV, building a robust case against this decision in hope for the best possible outcome for our students and the wider education sector.

I want to assure you that I am committed to listening to and valuing the suggestions of our students, staff, and parents. As I emphasised to students, while not every idea may be implemented, it is through the sharing of suggestions that we can uncover improvements that can be made together.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to foster a culture of openness, collaboration, and continuous improvement at Girton.

Wishing you all a restful weekend.

Dr Emma O'Rielly 

Principal