Senior School News

From the Head of Character and Culture

This week saw the commencement of our Semester 1 Parent-Teacher Conferences. It has been pleasing to connect with so many parents and carers and to hear the thoughtful and collaborative conversations taking place regarding student progress and wellbeing. 

The partnership between school and home is a vital component in supporting students to achieve their personal and academic best. 

Families who have elected to participate in the online conference sessions next Wednesday are reminded to check their schedules and access details in advance.

With colder weather now settling in, students are expected to be wearing the Formal Uniform Suite correctly each day. Thank you to those many students who have transitioned into the seasonal expectations so smoothly. Students are reminded:

• wear blazers to and from school 
• shirts must be tucked in at all times
• if hair touches the collar, it must be tied back at all times, and hair must not be dyed
• wearing of the PE jacket over the formal uniform is not permitted.

Attention to personal presentation reflects positively on both the student and the broader School community, and we appreciate the support of families in reinforcing these expectations.

Finally, Semester 1 Examinations are rapidly approaching, and students should now be establishing consistent revision routines and study plans. Developing effective study habits well before examinations begin is one of the most important strategies for reducing stress and improving confidence. Families are encouraged to continue discussing organisation, balance and preparation with their child over the coming weeks. Students can also access the Study Skills Handbook via Astra for additional guidance around study techniques, wellbeing and time management.

Thank you again for your continued support. I wish all families an enjoyable and restful weekend ahead.

Mr Marcus Smalley

Head of Character and Culture

Year 9 Achieve: Building hope one house at a time

The Year 9 Achieve classes are currently investigating the important social issue of youth homelessness in the Bendigo region. Their learning began during Camps Week with participation in the Salvos Homelessness Workshop, where students gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by young people experiencing homelessness and the impact this can have on individuals and the wider community.

Now, students are turning their knowledge into action by raising awareness and funds to support young people in our region. Across Weeks 4, 5 and 6, the Year 9 Achieve classes will be running lunchtime activities in the PA Courtyard, including selling lolly bags and organising fun activities for students to participate in. All funds raised will be donated to Bendigo Foodshare and Backpack Beds for the Homeless.

Students are also creating origami houses, with the goal of making 100 houses each week to represent the number of young people who are sleeping rough each night across our region. In Week 4, 9AH and 9FR will be leading the activities, followed by 9 Jenkin and 9 Jones in Week 5, and 9 Millward and 9 Riley in Week 6.

We encourage all students and staff to come along, get involved and support this important initiative as our Year 9 students work to make a positive difference in the lives of young people in our community.

Senior School Camps Week: Term 1, Week 10

At the end of Term 1, our Senior School students headed off on camps, stepping outside the classroom to experience learning in a whole new way.

Camps Week is an important part of our school program, helping students build independence, resilience and stronger connections with their peers.

The videos below capture some of the highlights from 2026 Camps Week and celebrate the experiences that make these moments so important in our students’ growth, both inside and outside the classroom.

Year 7 - Camp Howqua

Year 7H Camp Reflections: What did students notice?

If I could relive one part of camp, I would choose the waterslide and the horse riding because they were my favourite activities. If I had the chance to go again, I would also like to try the high ropes course, which I did not get to do.

At camp, I learnt that I am quite well coordinated. During the low ropes course, I also discovered that half of my group and I worked very well together.

One funny and unexpected moment was when I played Uno before dinner one night. It was a lot of fun, and I met some students I did not know before.

The activity that made me feel most proud was horse riding. I was surprised that I was actually quite good at it, and I really enjoyed riding along the trail.

When we first arrived at camp, I noticed the sights straight away. The flying fox and the high ropes course stood out because they were high up and easy to see.

Anneliese Harvey (7 Jones)

If I could relive one part of camp, it would definitely be going down the waterslide. I really enjoyed the thrill of the ride and the huge splash of water when I reached the bottom.

At camp, I learnt that I enjoy walking in nature. I had never realised this about myself before.

One funny moment happened when I accidentally took the wrong path and became separated from the rest of my group. I had to find my way back. Oops!

The activity that made me feel most proud was the high ropes course. I was feeling a little nervous before I started, but once I got up there, I really enjoyed myself.

The first thing I noticed when we arrived was how beautiful the campsite was. I also noticed how friendly, warm and welcoming the staff were.

Rajarshi Chakraborty (7 Millward)

If I could relive one part of camp, it would be everything. However, if I had to choose just one activity, it would probably be Survivor or archery.

At camp, I learnt that I am still very afraid of heights.

One funny moment I shared with others was when Charles said during Letter Writing, “I’m like a panda. I prefer to be solitary.” Everyone thought it was hilarious.

The activity that made me feel most proud was Survivor. At first, I was afraid to do it, but once I tried it, I realised it was a lot of fun and very rewarding.

When we first arrived, I noticed the sights immediately. The magnificent buildings and structure.

Zane Woods (7 Millward)

Year 8 Camp - Gembrook

Year 9 Camp - Melbourne CBD

Year 12s dive into Bendigo Creek’s past and future with Low Line investigation

The Year 12 Geography class completed fieldwork looking into whether the new Bendigo Low Line will improve community engagement with the Bendigo Creek. We started our journey at Lake Weeroona where we met several members from the City of Greater Bendigo. We heard from a Park Ranger about the history of the creek and the impacts of European settlement as well as how the Dja Dja Wurrung have been custodians of the creek and continue to help with its management. 

We visited the frog ponds to see how the creek is being revitalised before learning about the Low Line. The Bendigo Low Line will provide walking and bike access along the creek bed from Lake Weeroona through to Golden Square and our school will have a new access ramp installed near Vine Street. The preparation works have already started, and students were able to ask questions about the engineering of the ramp and how the heritage overlay will impact how the sandstone and bluestone lining the creek is used. 

We completed the fieldwork by walking back to school along Bendigo Creek and seeing the various stages of works that are underway. 

Miss Deone Cole

Senior School Teacher of Humanities

VCE Music Students Attend Top Class Performance

Year 11 and 12 students from VCE Music Repertoire and Contemporary Performance Units 3&4 recently attended the VCE Music Performance Top Class concerts at the Melbourne Recital Centre, along with Mrs Bartlett and Ms Hunter. Hosted by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA), Top Class showcases outstanding VCE performance examinations from across Victoria and provides current students with inspiration and insight into the musical, technical, and expressive qualities demonstrated by high-achieving performers.

While students were inspired by a wide range of exceptional performances, there was also a familiar face on stage - Girton Grammar alumnus Oscar Woods (Class of 2025), performing on electric guitar. During his time at Girton, Oscar was deeply involved in the music program, performing in the Big Band, Jazz Band, Symphony Orchestra, and a range of other ensembles and performances throughout the school community.

Oscar performed At First Light by guitarist and composer Steve Erquiaga in a captivating duet for electric and acoustic guitar, alongside former Head of Senior Music and VCE Music teacher, Mr Josh McGuffie. The performance demonstrated a sophisticated command of tone, phrasing, stylistic interpretation, and ensemble communication.

Oscar’s selection for Top Class reflects his dedication, musicianship, and sustained commitment to his craft. His performance was recognised by VCAA examiners as exemplary within the 2025 state cohort, highlighting his expressive artistry, technical fluency, and deep understanding of the musical style and repertoire.

Congratulations to Oscar Woods on this outstanding achievement. His participation in Top Class was a proud moment for the Girton Grammar community and an inspiring experience for our current VCE Music students.

Daniel Noble

Year 12 Prefect, VCE Music Repertoire Performance student

Girton celebrates Do It For Dolly Day with a splash of blue!

Girton Community Action Group (GCAG) is passionate about Do It For Dolly Day because we are committed to encouraging a safe, respectful and inclusive school, supported by a strong anti-bullying policy. This year, GCAG raised awareness and funds by running a ‘Guess the Lolly Jar’ competition and encouraging students to wear a “splash of blue” by adding a streak of blue hair spray to their hair and allowing students to wear PE uniform on Friday, 8th May. Students were asked to make a gold coin donation to be involved. All funds raised will support the Do It For Dolly Foundation and promote kindness and inclusion across schools nationwide.

With the generous support of all our senior school students, GCAG is delighted to share that we have raised a fantastic total of $850 for Dolly’s Dream! Your enthusiasm, kindness, and willingness to get involved have made a real difference, and this contribution will help support important work in promoting the important message of Dolly’s Dream – kindness and inclusion are essential to promote positive mental health in teens.

We would also like to congratulate the winner of our ‘Guess the Lolly Jar’ competition, Elsie Evans of 7 Jenkin!  We hope that you enjoy the spoils of your success!

Thank you to everyone who took part, guessed the lolly jar, and helped make this fundraiser such a fun and successful event.

Mythri Kolluru (8 Jones)

Gojo High School Update

Last Friday, our Japanese sister school Gojo High School added a special segment to their whole school Assembly to report on their March visit to Girton Grammar School. Each student made a slide presentation and short speech about their experiences during their time in Australia, sharing photographs and stories about what life is like at Girton. Since the Assembly, Gojo teachers said there has been a surge of interest in Girton and Australia, with Gojo students and teachers excitedly beginning preparations for the Girton Japanese Language Tour this September.

In readiness for the tour, Girton students have commenced weekly meetings, and are studying useful phrases, Japanese bathroom etiquette and cultural expectations. Girton students are also busy choreographing an Australia-themed dance performance, with the support of Mr David Martin, Ms Emily Holmes and Ms Kanae Kerr. We look forward to seeing lots of photos upon their return home and we wish them well in their preparations.

Mrs Liz Blanks

Japanese Language Tour Coordinator

The Crucible - Tickets on Sale Monday 18 May!

Step into the gripping world of The Crucible by Arthur Miller, a powerful drama set during the Salem witch trials. As fear and suspicion take hold, a community unravels under the weight of accusation and deceit. Filled with tension, emotion, and unforgettable characters, this compelling production will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Please be advised that this performance is not suitable for children under 10 years of age due to mature themes.

Show Dates: Wednesday 17 June 2026 – Friday 19 June 2026

Location: Black Box Theatre @ Girton Grammar School

            59 Wattle St, Bendigo VIC 3550

Ticket Details: 

• Adults: $25
• Students/Concession: $18 
• Family (2 Adults + 2 Students/Concessions): $75

Tickets will be available to purchase this coming Monday, the link will be sent via email. 

Don't miss out - Senior School Formal 2026

Our Senior School Formal will take place on Thursday 4 June at the All Seasons Bendigo for students in Years 10 to 12. For this year's 'Festival of Lights' theme, we have planned an illuminating evening filled with glowing lanterns and an atmosphere of elegance and wonder. Each ticket is priced at $88 per student, with the dress code of formal attire. A registration link has been sent to parents and carers via Consent2Go for ticket purchase.  

RSVP deadline Monday 18 May.

Please note the event is scheduled at the conclusion of the Years 10-11 Exam week, allowing students to celebrate their hard work. The following day is a pupil free day.

Ms Kristi Mitchell

Alumni and Community Relations Manager