From the Head of Senior School
Year 6 transition to Senior School
On Tuesday of Week 1, our incoming Year 7 students participated in a Testing and Orientation Day, an essential component of their transition to Senior School. The day commenced with three Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT): one for reading, one for numeracy, and a general ability assessment. These evaluations give our teachers valuable insights to tailor their instruction to suit each student’s learning needs.
After lunch, students participated in a Q&A session in the Lecture Theatre with Mrs Kymberley Hogan, followed by team-building activities in the school gymnasium. These activities were instrumental in fostering connections and enhancing students’ sense of belonging, which can help alleviate the anxiety frequently associated with transitioning to secondary school.
For our incoming students, the day provided an excellent opportunity to start forming friendships and ease any concerns they may have regarding the exciting journey ahead in their educational experience with us.
House Dinners
Last week, our House Dinners were held across two venues in Bendigo: the All Seasons Conservatory and the Bendigo Club. These memorable events gave our students a formal but fun opportunity to dress up, foster House spirit and enjoy the company of their peers alongside their House Tutors and Heads of House. Each year level showcased a brief performance, which included a song or dance, or facilitated a House-themed trivia quiz.
The Year 11 House Captains are commended for the remarkable organisation and dedication they displayed in orchestrating an unforgettable evening for the students in each House, particularly the Year 12 cohort.
Technology use and online safety
Parents frequently find themselves feeling uncertain about how to regulate their childrens’ technology use. With students often using computers and the internet to conduct research, collaborate with ‘study buddies’ and complete school assignments, it can be challenging to discern whether they engaged in productive academic work or being distracted by gaming, social media or other online activities. Even more concerning than these digital distractions are the risks to student safety and wellbeing posed by cyber-bullying, exposure to inappropriate content and data privacy breaches.
To help Girton gain an understanding of the knowledge and attitudes towards online safety within our school community, we are currently conducting online safety surveys for students and parents. These surveys, which have been endorsed by the eSafety Commissioner, will assist the school in developing new digital safety programs to educate and support our entire school community. I would like to thank our parents and carers in advance for taking a moment to complete this valuable survey.
Click here to complete the parent and carer survey >
Year 12 farewell
Ironically, the initial two weeks of this term mark the final fortnight of school for our Year 12 students. As they near the final days of their formal education, they are preparing for their final Year 12 examinations in collaboration with their teachers.
To our Year 12 cohort – as you commence the next chapter of your journey, please remember that your final day does not signify an end but an extraordinary beginning. Your future resembles a blank canvas, and I encourage you to embrace every opportunity, learn from each challenge, and allow your passion to serve as the brush that creates a masterpiece. Congratulations, Class of 2024. I wish you the best of luck in your forthcoming examinations and the paths you pursue following your time at Girton.
Ms Dawn Davis
Head of Senior School