From the Head of Senior School

It seems like a considerable amount of time has passed since I wrote my last article prior to Camps Week. Since that time, we have enjoyed a restorative term break and have now embarked on another busy term filled with events. Our School Captains, accompanied by Dr O'Rielly, were privileged to represent our school at Bendigo’s Anzac Day Dawn Service, where they had the opportunity to lay a wreath on behalf of the school. Junior and Senior School students, including Mr Thompson and myself, participated in the Morning Service. Students who attended these services and others throughout the Greater Bendigo region will be acknowledged for their service to the school. 

Foundation Day 

This year's Foundation Day holds a special significance as we commemorate 140 years since the establishment of our school’s predecessor, Girton College, and our founders who rebuilt it into the thriving institution we know today. 

We kindly remind our Senior School students that their attendance at Foundation Day is mandatory, and they will be required to wear their formal uniform suite, including their blazers. Additionally, starting from Foundation Day, students are expected to wear their formal uniform, including blazers, when arriving at and departing school. For any students who intend to stay on campus until the Foundation Day service begins, there will be a movie screening in the Lecture Theatre from 3:40pm to 5pm, after which time they will be escorted across the road to the Cathedral. 

SunSmart hats 

Finally, I wanted to issue a reminder about the vital importance of sun protection. Given Australia has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world, it is crucial that we take measures to reduce excessive UV exposure and minimise the risk of skin sunburn, skin and eye damage, and skin cancer. Research shows that UV damage acquired during childhood and adolescence significantly increases the likelihood of developing skin cancer later in life, so it is essential that we promote SunSmart practices at school.  

As part of our commitment to promoting sun safety, Girton’s SunSmart policy requires students to wear an approved hat while outdoors when UV levels are forecast to be 3 or higher. This applies to both on- and off-campus activities, including recess and lunch breaks, physical education classes, sports events, excursions, camps and casual dress days. In Victoria, UV levels typically exceed 3 from mid-August until the end of April, and sometimes into May, meaning there may be days during Terms 2 and 3 when hats will be necessary. 

As a result, we ask that all students make sure they have one of the new SunSmart hat styles at school, so they can be worn on any days when the UV index is 3 or higher. Students who fail to wear the appropriate hat will incur a uniform infringement and be instructed to remain indoors. If your child does not already have one of the approved hats, they can be ordered online through the Bob Stewart website. If you are waiting for a hat on order, please email proof of purchase to your child's Head of House so they can be issued with a temporary uniform pass. 

Thank you to our parents, carers and students for adhering to our SunSmart policy, and I wish you a wonderful fortnight and term ahead.  

Ms Dawn Davis

Head of Senior School