The Anchor

Secondary School

Dear GSG Families

 

I’m thrilled to be joining the team at Great Southern Grammar as Deputy Principal – Head of Secondary. I thought I would start my first Anchor article with a little bit about myself and then move on to my vision for our Secondary School in alignment with our new Strategic Plan.

 

My teaching career has spanned over 17 years and I have taught every year group from Year Four to Year Twelve. My classroom expertise lies in teaching Humanities and my favourite subject is Modern History. I have a real passion for character education during the adolescent years, helping students to develop themselves and their interests, how to work collaboratively with others, to live their values through their actions, and to always strive for personal excellence.

 

I look forward to working alongside the staff at GSG to lead a vibrant school community, where our students’ wellbeing and opportunities for success are always at the heart of our decision making. I also look forward to working alongside our parents to ensure that we work in partnership towards this goal. I pay special tribute to our boarding families for the trust that they put in us to help raise their children for long periods of time whilst they live away from home during these important years.

 

My family have relocated to Albany after falling in love with the area over many visits and look forward to integrating ourselves in the community. I have always kept my eye out for opportunities at GSG after touring the school many years ago and we are very excited to be here now. Our three children have enrolled in the school and are looking forward to making the most of their GSG education alongside our wonderful staff here.

Outside of school, I love camping, boating, golf, watching my kids play outdoors and relaxing with family and friends.

 

I can honestly say that all of us here at GSG are very lucky to come to this great school and work alongside our staff. Ever since arriving a couple of weeks ago, the staff have been incredibly kind and helpful. As I have started, I have seen first-hand how dedicated they are to creating a great experience for our students.

 

This year, the theme for GSG is Create Your Impact. This is a message for students and staff alike to do four things.

  1. Stay true to yourself – stick up for your values and don’t be afraid to be an individual.
  2. Strive for your personal best, work hard to achieve your goals.
  3. Show courage and do what you love doing most and also look out for new opportunities to keep expanding your comfort zone.
  4. Be kind to others and serve your community, be a force for positivity.

I am sure that these principles are already embedded within the GSG community and I look forward to working alongside our staff and students to continue to celebrate them.

As we forge ahead with a busy term, I really look forward to witnessing some of the many great cultural events around the campus. This week it has been great to be a part of Year Seven Orientation Week and also welcoming the boarders to the campus to start a new year of living on campus. Next week we have the Leaders' Induction Assembly on Wednesday and the Year Twelve Ball on Saturday! By Week Three we have the Swimming Carnival for Years Seven to Nine and look towards the Year Seven and Year Nine camp in Week Four. It is certainly an action-packed start to the term!

I wish families all the very best in their own action-packed starts to the term and I encourage parents to visit the campus and see many of the fantastic things that we have going on, especially our weekly Assemblies on Mondays from 10.15am to 10.55am.

 

Mr Jordan Owenell | Deputy Principal - Head of Secondary

Interhouse Swimming Carnival 

The 2025 Years Seven, Eight and Nine Interhouse Swimming Carnival will be held on Wednesday 19 February.  We are looking forward to a great carnival with maximum participation where everyone can do their little bit for their House.

 

Nominations

Students can select from either the Championship or Carnival pathways, depending upon their preferred level of participation.  Please use this form to nominate a chosen pathway by no later than 2.00pm Monday 10 February.  There is a detailed description of both pathways on the form.

New Tour Programmes for 2025-2030!

We are thrilled to announce our comprehensive Interstate and International Tour Schedule for the years 2025 through 2030! You can find this schedule below. These tours are designed to enrich our students’ educational experiences, broaden their horizons, and create lifelong memories. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:

 

Canberra Tour - Year Nine

A new, yearly offering for Year Nine students will be a Canberra Tour, running during the final week of Term Two (Country Week). This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Australia’s capital, visit Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and other significant landmarks. It’s a fantastic way to bring their studies in civics and citizenship to life. Expressions of interest for this tour in 2025 are now open, click here

 

New York Tour - Years Ten, Eleven and Twelve

For our senior students, we are introducing an exciting humanities-focused trip to New York City. This tour will delve into the rich cultural, historical, and political tapestry of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Students will visit iconic sites such as the United Nations, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Statue of Liberty and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, providing a profound understanding of global humanities. Expressions of interest for this tour in 2025 are now open, click here

 

Sporting Tour to New Zealand

Sports enthusiasts will have the chance to travel to New Zealand, renowned for its sporting culture and stunning landscapes. This tour will include training sessions, friendly matches with local teams and an opportunity to develop skills. Final sports involved are yet to be determined and will be communicated in due course. It’s an excellent way to develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and international camaraderie.

 

Malaysia Marine Studies SCUBA Tour - Years Ten, Eleven and Twelve

For those passionate about marine studies and adventure, our Marine Studies SCUBA Tour is a must. Students will explore some of the world’s most beautiful underwater ecosystems, gaining hands-on experience in marine conservation and SCUBA diving. This tour promises to be both educational and exhilarating.

 

Paris Arts Tour - Years Ten, Eleven and Twelve

Art, history, and culture come alive in our Paris Tour. Students will immerse themselves in the artistic and historical wonders of the City of Light, visiting landmarks such as the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Eiffel Tower. This tour is perfect for those with a passion for the arts and European history.

 

Melbourne Digital Technologies Tour - Years Ten, Eleven and Twelve

Our Melbourne Digital Technologies Tour will offer students a glimpse into the future of technology. They will visit leading tech companies, participate in workshops, and learn about the latest advancements in digital technologies. This tour is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in the tech industry.

 

We believe these tours provide invaluable educational experiences and foster a deeper understanding of the world and support the development of global citizens. Detailed itineraries and application forms will be available in due course. We encourage all students to take advantage of these incredible opportunities.

 Mr Paul Delane | Director of Student Development