From the 

Head of  

Senior School

Dear BMGS Senior School Community, 

What a start to the year! The beginning of Term 1 has been dynamic, fast-paced, and filled with enthusiasm as our Senior School students hit the ground running. From the very first day, it has been wonderful to see our students embracing new opportunities, setting ambitious goals, and demonstrating the resilience and commitment that define our school community.

A key highlight of the term so far was our Welcome Assembly, where we officially marked the beginning of the school year and celebrated the Class of 2024. We had the joy of welcoming back our Year 12 students from last year for our Class of 2024 Assembly. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their achievements, reflect on their journey, and wish them well as they step forward into the world.

At Blue Mountains Grammar School, we value Courage - the strength to embrace new challenges, explore new opportunities, and face the future with confidence. Our graduates have shown this courage in abundance, and we know they will continue to do so in all they pursue.

After the assembly, we shared a delightful morning tea in the sunshine, reconnecting and reminiscing about their time at BMGS. Congratulations, Class of 2024 - we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you!

The Year 12 Parent-Teacher Night was another important event, allowing families to connect with teachers and gain valuable insights into their child’s academic progress. These conversations are crucial in supporting our students as they navigate the challenges of their final year, and we appreciate the engagement and commitment of both parents and staff in ensuring Year 12 students are set up for success.

Beyond the classroom, our co-curricular programs are in full swing, with students excelling in sport, music, drama, and service initiatives. The recent Swimming Carnival was a highlight, showcasing not just competitive spirit but also camaraderie and house pride. Our students continue to impress with their commitment to excellence, whether in the classroom, on the field, or on stage.

A huge congratulations to Year 12 student Ashlee Cremona on successfully completing her VET course in Fashion Design at Whitehouse Institute of Design! Ashlee absolutely loved the experience - learning invaluable skills, forming wonderful friendships, and discovering a passion she is excited to pursue. Her dedication and creativity have already been recognised, with Ashlee being awarded 2024 Designer of the Year for Fashion Design! 

Ashlee’s journey is a wonderful example of the benefits of Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses for senior students, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and industry knowledge while completing their HSC. Ash’s family expressed their gratitude to our school for guiding Ashlee toward this opportunity - one they hadn’t even realised was possible.

As we progress through Term 1, I encourage all students to maintain their momentum, seek support when needed, and make the most of the opportunities available to them. The energy and enthusiasm we have seen so far set the tone for a fantastic year ahead.

Warm regards,

Alicia Michielsen

Head of Senior School

Archbishop's Prefect Commissioning Service

On the 13th of February, our student leaders attended the Archbishop’s Prefect Commissioning Service at Saint Andrew’s Cathedral. We were joined by student leaders from all of the Anglican schools in the diocese. 

This experience reminded us, as student leaders, that we are part of a large community of like-minded schools following the Anglican tradition. It was wonderful to connect with student leaders from other schools and talk to them about a range of things - most importantly our shared love for our favourite chapel song My Lighthouse!

During the official service, the Archbishop reminded us of the privilege, honour and responsibility that comes with being a leader. His words about leadership as a balance between work and relaxation, between big ideas and often mundane (but necessary!) tasks, particularly resonated - especially as we enter what is a stressful but rewarding year. The Archbishop emphasised the importance of viewing leadership as a means to serve others, rather than serving oneself. This is an attitude that is important not only as we seek to serve BMGS, but also as we aspire to leadership beyond school in the wider world.

We also heard testimony from Scarlett Jones from Barker College, who spoke about the role of faith in developing identity and navigating the ups and downs of school-life. 

We are so grateful to Mrs Michielsen and Mrs Pearson for taking us to the service. We also thank you for consistently supporting us as student leaders, and being role-models of compassionate leadership yourselves. As Mrs Michielsen said in her toast at lunch, days like these remind us that we are all working together to make this school a better place!

Sophia Huckel

School Captain