Senior School

It has been an incredibly busy three weeks here in the Senior School with students engaged in a variety of exciting and educational activities and I am excited to share some of the highlights.

Year 10 Aqua Camp at Merricks Lodge

Year 10 students embarked on a memorable Aqua Camp at Merricks Lodge on the Mornington Peninsula. The camp was filled with thrilling water activities, encouraging teamwork and individual growth. From snorkelling to stand up paddleboarding, SCUBA, Surfing, and Boating, students embraced the challenges, in an atmosphere that fostered resilience and camaraderie. Click here for photos and more.

Year 11 Camp at Kinglake Forest Adventures Camp

The Year 11 Camp was held at the Kinglake Forest Adventures Camp, providing an immersive experience for Year 11 students. With a range of outdoor activities, physically demanding challenges, the camp aimed to build essential character traits such as teamwork, resilience, tolerance, and motivation. The formal debriefing sessions ensured a holistic learning experience for all participants. Click here for photos and more.

House Swimming at Croydon Memorial Pool

The sun shone brightly on the day of the House Swimming event at Croydon Memorial Pool. The Gibeon Warriors narrowly claimed the 2024 trophy for their House, showcasing their swimming prowess, while the Zion Crusaders shared the Spirit Award with the Gibeon Warriors. Thank you to all who planned, scheduled, participated and ran a very successful day by the pool. Click here for the full report and photos.

House Athletics at Tom Kelly Athletics Track

The weather was hot, but the sun was mercifully shielded by a thin blanket of cloud cover as the Senior School took to the field at the Tom Kelly Athletics Track. Students, teachers and parents who were in attendance witnessed the energetic participation of all students in the 2024 House Athletics. Once again, students put our teachers to shame during the Student / Teacher relay and some staff were left nursing their hamstrings as they strained over the finish line! The mighty Gibeon Warriors emerged victorious once again this year clinching the Athletics Trophy with the Zion Crusaders taking home the Spirit Award. Click here for the full report and photos.

Year 12 Retreat at Foothills Conference Centre

Year 12 students attended a valuable retreat at the Foothills Conference Centre, featuring guest speakers, a student panel, and team-building competitions. This event provided a unique opportunity for reflection and goal setting as our most senior students embark on their final year.

Click here for more photos.

Year 7 Assessments and Barbecue

Year 7 students completed their first set of crucial assessments as part of the Senior School, showcasing their commitment to academic excellence. The Year 7 Barbecue was a delightful success, with parents connecting with teachers, including Mrs Vinita Seago and Mr David Cutler.

Click here for more photos.

Exciting Developments in Campus Facilities

In addition to the enriching events of the past weeks, we are thrilled to share some exciting news regarding our campus facilities.

Middle School students were buzzing with excitement as they unveiled the brand-new half courts designated for Year 8 and Year 9 students. Year 7 students can celebrate as they now have their court exclusively for themselves. This dedicated space provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for our youngest secondary students to engage in sports and activities tailored to their needs.

An exciting addition to our campus is the GAGA Pit, a unique space that will be shared by all Senior School students who have been staring longingly at the Junior School’s GAGA Pit since late 2023. This recreational area promises hours of fun, fostering social interaction and camaraderie among our Year 10 to Year 12 students.

These new spaces have also introduced several seating areas and green spaces throughout the Senior School grounds. These spaces provide students with tranquil spots to unwind and socialise during recess and lunch.

Senior School Devotion

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

2 Corinthians 9:7-8

This passage reminds us of the profound impact that our generosity has on others and on ourselves. Whether we share the resources with which we have been blessed, or simply give of our time to bless others, we are encouraged to give from the heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion but with joy and a spirit of cheerfulness. God promises abundant blessings as we share what we have, not just to ensure that we lack nothing, but so that we are empowered to excel in every good work to which we set ourselves.

The transformative power of generosity helps to turn simple acts of giving into opportunities for God's grace to flow through us. A cheerful and intentional spirit of giving makes us vessels for God's blessing, spreading kindness and fostering a culture of abundance within our community.

Upcoming Events

NAPLAN: Wednesday 13 to Friday 15 March.
Year 7 Camp at Anglesea Valley Lodge: Monday 18 to Thursday 21 March.
Year 9 City Cite Experience: Monday 18 to Thursday 28 March.

James Avram

Deputy Principal – Head of Senior School