From the Principal
Welcome to our first edition of eLink for Term 3. It's been wonderful to see our students return from break, and we're already in full swing for the Term.
With the launch of our refreshed Girton Mission and Values this year, we're paying special attention to "noticing" when these values are lived by staff and students day in and day out, in line with Girton's theme this year, "The Year of Noticing."
Before Term 3 started, we gathered all Senior School and Junior School staff for a day together, and I had the wonderful task of celebrating some standout moments from Term 2. Here's a taste of what we noticed:
Educational Excellence — Teachers delivering lessons that are rich, engaging and genuinely make students think, while helping roll out our new Teaching & Learning Framework across the school.
Determination — The grit from both staff and students behind our Senior School Production, The Crucible. Endless rehearsals, lines learned and nerves overcome. It was a tough show in which staff supported our students to discover just how resilient they really are.
Respect — The care and professionalism shown by staff throughout Term 2 exams, making sure students felt supported to do their best.
Curiosity — Teachers conducting classes that encourage students to ask questions and seek the facts.
Compassion — Everyday kindness in action, continuing to embed our RULER Social and Emotional learning program to bring empathy into classrooms and homes, and the thoughtful balancing act of supporting families, teachers and students with Individual Education Plans.
Connection — Staff going the extra mile to get to know their students, especially those who need a bit more support to feel they belong, plus the work bringing departments closer together and creating moments for our whole community to connect, from staff gatherings to the Senior School formal.
We've noticed the actions of our students too, and I've been visiting Senior School students in House Tutor since the start of Term 3 to personally hand out their recognition. What I've really noticed is that many of these students are those who consistently live these values, and being recognised means a great deal to them.
I plan to visit our Junior School classrooms over the coming weeks to recognise the actions and attitudes of our younger students too. It's a privilege to lead a school where these values are lived, every single day.
2026 Student Leadership Breakfast
This spirit of leading by example was on full display at our annual House Leaders' Breakfast on Wednesday 22 July, held before school for our Junior and Senior School House Captains, Vice-Captains and School Captains. Over a shared meal with Heads of House and Assistant Heads of House, students discussed the role they play within their Houses and explored what good leadership looks like in practice.
The energy in the room, and the connections built and strengthened across our student leadership community, was a wonderful reminder of the dedication and pride our students bring to these roles.
AusAlert National Test on Monday 27 July, 2pm
As you may be aware, the Australian Government will run a national test on Monday 27 July at 2pm, in which all compatible devices (phones, tablets, smart watches) will sound a loud, siren-like alert for about 10 seconds, even if they are switched to 'silent'. This is in preparation for the launch of AusAlert, a new national emergency warning system, in October.
If a sudden loud alarm could be distressing for your child, it may help to talk through what to expect beforehand. At school, students should continue to follow our Student Mobile Device and Electronic Personal Devices Policy, in which devices are switched off and away. More information about AusAlert is available at ausalert.gov.au.
Safety note during roadworks near Senior School
The City of Greater Bendigo has begun roadworks on the Vine Street Access Ramp, part of the Bendigo Low Line Shared Path Project. The works are expected to take three to four months. During this period, we are already experiencing a reduction in available parking and minor traffic disruptions, and we ask parents to take extra care during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up. Please contact the Council on 1300 002 642 with any questions.
Senior School Late pass trial in Morey Building
From Monday 27 July, the Senior School will trial a late pass system for students arriving late to classes in the Morey Building. Students will be directed to check in at the terminal on the ground floor using their student card or student ID, then collect a late pass before entering the classroom. Lost student cards can be replaced for $8, by ordering a new card using this form or at Reception.
The trial follows this year's Student Attendance Review and supports our Teaching and Learning Framework's focus on calm, purposeful learning environments. As I’m sure we all agree, arriving on time is a mark of respect for teachers and classmates, and a discipline that will serve our students well beyond Girton.
We'll gather staff and student feedback after the trial to inform whether the system extends to the Naunton and Performing Arts Buildings. Students with questions should please speak to their House Mentor.
As we settle into the rhythm of Term 3, I look forward to noticing many more moments of Educational Excellence, Determination, Respect, Curiosity, Compassion and Connection across our community. Here's to a term where these Values continue to shine, in the classroom and beyond.
Dr Emma O'Rielly
Principal