Building Connections

Our Building Connections page will celebrate the many ways our students come together through our Senior School Co-connect and Co-curriculum program. Each issue, we will highlight different activities, offering a glimpse into the experiences, relationships and opportunities that make this program such a special part of life at Girton Grammar. 

Sustainability in Action

The Sustainability in Action Co-curriculum group continues to make a meaningful difference within the Girton community and the wider Bendigo region by promoting practical ways we can all contribute to a more sustainable future. Founded by Ms Deone Cole several years ago, the initiative was created to give students both a voice and a vehicle to take positive action on environmental issues. Since then, a committed and passionate group of students has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the small everyday changes that can have a significant impact in reducing environmental harm and creating a more sustainable future.

The group has already introduced several important sustainability initiatives across the school. These include the introduction of organic waste bins and recycling bins throughout the school grounds, paper recycling bins in all Senior School classrooms, and the Greening Girton initiative, which encourages students to take pride in and responsibility for their environment.

Students have also helped reinvigorate the Hub vegetable and herb gardens, reintroduced the worm farm, and developed systems to recycle organic waste materials from staffrooms to create natural fertiliser for the gardens. These projects not only reduce waste but also help students better understand the importance of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

Looking ahead, the group hopes to introduce a container recycling system, with funds raised being used to further improve the natural environment around the school. Ms Cole and her dedicated band of students are determined to leave a lasting impact on the school community through leadership, action and education in sustainability.

If you are passionate about recycling, caring for the environment or making a real difference for the future, consider joining Sustainability in Action during the Wednesday Building Connections program. Every small change can make a big difference to our world.

Scale & Game

In the world of Scale & Game, every Wednesday becomes an adventure. This vibrant co-curricular program, a mix of Dungeons & Dragons and a variety of board games, has quickly become one of the most cherished spaces in the school. Here, students step into the theatre of the mind, crafting epic tales, adopting character voices, and discovering strengths they sometimes forget they possess in the everyday world.

What makes Scale & Game truly special is the way it brings students out of their shells. Young people who often feel isolated or struggle with confidence are flourishing. They engage in highly detailed storytelling and immersive role-play, transforming into confident heroes who lead, collaborate, and create. For many, it is a safe, judgement-free zone where they can explore, play, and build their sense of identity.

The impact is profound. Some students who typically find it difficult to manage a full day at school make sure they are present from start to finish on Wednesdays, eager to join the fun. One reserved and shy student, who often struggles to endure full school days, now thrives right through to the final bell, confidently leading a table of over ten peers with silly voices, laughter, and stories worthy of literary acclaim.

Beyond the games themselves, Scale & Game creates genuine belonging. Students from all year levels and backgrounds come together with warmth and camaraderie. Emotional and academic support flows naturally alongside creativity and collaboration, all within an environment surrounded by supportive peers. What begins as “just a game” becomes a powerful proxy for connection, bringing amazing young people together to work as a team, to laugh, to feel deeply, and most importantly, to be themselves.

None of this would be possible without the incredible students who pour their energy, imagination, and hearts into every session. Their enthusiasm and willingness to embrace vulnerability make the program the wonderful experience it is. A heartfelt thanks is also directed to the dedicated staff who provide guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support, and to Girton for prioritising and facilitating these meaningful opportunities for our community.

Scale & Game is more than a co-curricular, it is honestly a shining example of why Girton is such a special place to learn and grow. Congratulations to everyone involved for creating a space where every student can feel they truly belong.

Mr Matthew Kellett

Student Support Officer

Girton Community Action Group (GCAG)

Founded in 2013 by Mrs Melinda Naughton and Mrs Kathryn Barton, the Girton Community Action Group (GCAG) plays an important role in promoting awareness of significant social issues within both our school and the wider Bendigo community.

Through education, advocacy and community engagement, GCAG encourages students to develop empathy, inclusivity and a strong sense of social responsibility while helping to bring the Girton community together in celebration, commemoration and recognition.

The group proudly leads and supports many important events and initiatives throughout the year, including long-held Girton traditions such as the RUOK? Day BBQ and Staff vs Student Basketball Match, Harmony Day celebrations, Do It For Dolly Day, Wear It Purple Day, National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week activities.

GCAG also coordinates important fundraising and support initiatives such as the Dignity Drive and It’s in the Bag campaigns, helping to raise awareness and provide practical support for people in need within our local community.

These events promote important conversations around wellbeing, diversity, inclusion and reconciliation, and encourage students to actively contribute to creating a compassionate and connected school culture.

Through leadership, action and advocacy, GCAG empowers students to use their voices to make a positive difference and support causes that matter. The group continues to demonstrate the power of community in creating meaningful change and fostering a culture of respect, understanding and belonging at Girton. Students interested in social justice, community connection and making a positive impact are encouraged to get involved and join GCAG in continuing these important traditions and initiatives.

Why I enjoy GCAG: A student perspective

When I was in Year 7, I joined GCAG, a co-curricular that changed my life. The first time I walked into the classroom, I knew I belonged. The welcoming environment, supportive teachers, and inspiring captain made me feel at home. Everyone shared a passion for helping others, creating a sense of camaraderie that made the group special. Since joining, GCAG has helped me grow as a person, showing me the power of kindness, teamwork, and compassion. I love being part of a group that raises awareness for important issues and genuinely helps people in our community. GCAG has given me confidence, unforgettable experiences, and a place where I can be myself.

Izzah Hadi (8 Frew)