Building Connections
Our Building Connections page celebrates the many ways our students come together through our Senior School Co-connect and Co-curriculum programs. Each issue, we will highlight different activities, offering a glimpse into the experiences, relationships and opportunities that make these programs such a special part of life at Girton Grammar.
The Writers Workshop
During one of our Building Connections activities in The Writers Workshop, ten students
worked together to create a progressive story. Starting with just one word each, students took turns contributing one word, then two words, then three words, and finally four words at a time, gradually building a collaborative story. They were given the title Winter, and this wonderfully quirky piece was the result:
Winter
Winter is coming for my life because I hate my long life and I don’t appreciate summer’s warmth. It makes me rage because I am naturally addicted to vanilla milkshakes. Can I pass this cold winter in my sleep? Instead, I want to crash out on my life. It makes me want to give someone a hug and also give money. One, two, three, four; each season I despise. I drink juice in student class time. I can’t be bothered making soda for myself, so I guess I’ll have to crash-out on the floor.
This activity is just one example of the many fun and creative warm-up exercises we enjoy at the beginning of each session before students move on to developing more sophisticated pieces of writing. Throughout the year, students are challenged to experiment with different writing styles, respond to a range of themes and prompts, and work within a variety of creative constraints designed to stretch their thinking and imagination.
Students are also encouraged and supported to share their writing beyond the classroom through competitions and publication opportunities. For example, Writers’ Workshop students have recently been invited to participate in the 2026 Student Poetry Competition.
Now in its seventh year, the competition celebrates student voice, creativity and self-expression in all its forms. Run by Independent Schools Victoria in conjunction with the Arts Learning Festival, the competition invites students to submit an original poem on any topic, with an optional theme of Fruit, encouraging young writers to explore language through colour, texture, taste, memory and imagination—one juicy idea at a time.
I think the collaborative Winter story captures both the creativity and the sense of fun that make Writers’ Workshop such an enjoyable experience for students.
Mr Scott Langan
Staff Member in Charge (SMC)
Chess
Looking for a great way to unwind, challenge yourself, and connect with others? The Wednesday Afternoon Chess Club offers the perfect opportunity to meet fellow chess enthusiasts, make new friends, and enjoy friendly competition in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Whether you are an experienced player looking to test your skills against strong opponents or someone who simply enjoys a casual game with friends, there is a place for you at Chess Club. Games are often filled with rivalry, strategic thinking, and plenty of good humour.
New players are warmly encouraged to join for Semester Two. Beginners can build their confidence using Chess.com and learn from more experienced players before taking part in our organised and timed games. However, we strongly encourage students to embrace the social aspect of the club by gathering around traditional chess boards and competition clocks, where the best conversations and friendships are often formed.
Chess Club is the perfect way to relax, unwind, and sharpen your thinking at the end of a busy school day. We look forward to welcoming you—come along and make your next move!
Mrs Robyn Kristenson and Mrs Emily Ryan
Staff Members in Charge (SMC)