Student Agency & Growth

Empowering Leadership

Year 12 Leaders Attend GRIP Leadership Conference

On Tuesday 13 February our Year 12 School Leaders, Maisie Walsh (Year 12, Skipper House) and Tom Westerman (Year 12, Toner House), had the incredible opportunity to attend the annual GRIP Leadership Conference for secondary school students. Held at Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, the conference proved to be an enriching experience for both Maisie and Tom.

The GRIP Leadership Conference is known for its insightful programs tailored specifically for young leaders, and this year was no exception. Maisie and Tom had the privilege of participating in a variety of workshops and discussions designed to enhance their leadership skills and inspire them to make a positive impact within our school community.

The program for the day was diverse and engaging, covering a range of topics essential for effective student leadership. From sessions entitled Being a Student Leadership Team that Takes Steps Forward to How to Lead When It Feels Like Nobody Wants to Follow, Maisie and Tom gained valuable insights into the complexities of leadership and learned practical strategies to help them rise to challenges they will face in their roles.

One of the highlights of the conference was the opportunity to interact with students from schools all over Victoria. This provided Maisie and Tom with a unique platform to exchange ideas, share experiences, and forge connections with fellow student leaders. Additionally, they had the privilege of hearing from a Deakin Student Ambassador who shared her VCE and tertiary experience, offering valuable advice and inspiration for their future pathways.

The day was not only educational but also filled with fun and interactive games, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among participants. Maisie and Tom returned to Eltham High School feeling motivated and with a wealth of ideas to present to their peers at the first meeting of the 2024 Student Voice and Leadership Team in Week 4.

We congratulate Maisie Walsh and Tom Westerman on their enthusiastic participation in this event and look forward to witnessing the positive impact of their leadership within our school community.

LAUREN MCNALLY, Student Growth and Agency

Lunch Club Sign Up

At lunchtime on Monday February 12 the upper 100s buzzed with excitement as students and staff came together for Club Sign-Up Day. The space was full of students and staff spruiking their respective clubs, showcasing the diverse array of opportunities available for students to engage in extracurricular activities.

Joining a lunchtime club is not just about having fun; it's an opportunity to forge new friendships, enhance your learning experience, and contribute positively to our school community. Clubs play a pivotal role in helping students make the most of their school journey, fostering personal growth and skill development in a supportive and engaging environment.

Just some of the clubs on offer include: Anime Club, Anthology, Art Club, Creative Writing Club, Drama, Dungeons and Dragons, Swim Squad, Enviro Team, French/Indonesian Homework Club, Harmony Team, Needles and Threads, Origami Club, Running Club, StandOUT and STEAM Club.

With such a wide range of clubs available, there's something for everyone to explore and enjoy. Whether you're passionate about the arts, sciences, languages, or athletics, joining a club is the perfect way to enrich your school experience and make lasting memories with friends old and new.

So don't miss out on this opportunity to get involved – there’s still time to join!