Secondary School

This has been a fantastic week of cultural celebration in the Secondary School. It has set the tone early for what we want to stand for and achieve.  

On Monday, we had a Secondary School Assembly hosted by Camfield House, which chose the School’s Mission as its theme. Our Camfield Leaders, Kyla and Ulrich, spoke the words Passion, Purpose, and Joy. Using personal stories that were very relatable, the students expressed the importance of finding your passion in life, what gives you the most joy, and pursuing it with vigour. 

We also spoke at the assembly about the value of stepping outside your comfort zone to be open to new experiences and perhaps finding new passions. The school’s array of cocurricular opportunities is an excellent way for students to try something new. Our VACS programme, beginning in Week Three, gives students a broad range of activities that they can try and possibly even earn points for their House. 

We have our Swimming Carnival for Year Seven to Nine students on Wednesday next week, which will be the opening event for the Arthur Malacari Shield. 

In terms of a cultural tone around the school, there was no event more impactful than our Leaders' Induction Assembly on Wednesday. This is a wonderful tradition at GSG and it was great to be a part of it. 

Again, we had student reflections from students across a variety of year groups on what it means to be a leader as well as a reflection from Mr Irving. All Year Twelves were inducted as well as a select group of Year Six leaders who will help serve the community in Primary School. We also saw a beautiful example of servant leadership in action as our Year Twelves presented badges to our Pre-Primary and Year One students, which is one of the cutest things I have ever seen! I was also able to enjoy a lovely lunch with parents and students after the event in Breaksea House and it was lovely to see boarding honoured in that way, to be able to host the event. I think it's important for our day students and families to get to the boarding precinct when they can so that we keep boarding as an integral part of who we are as a community, and events like this help to strengthen those bonds. 

This weekend our Year Twelves have another cultural milestone, which is the Year Twelve Ball! Everyone is getting ready and polishing up their dancing shoes to head to the Albany Entertainment Centre on Saturday night and have a great time. I look forward to sharing the joy of the evening with students and their parents. A special thank you to all the parents who have not only helped their children prepare for the event, but also helped with the set-up of the event itself. 

Finally, a reminder to parents that there is a Secondary School Parent Information Evening on Friday from 5.00pm, followed by the P&F Sundowner. I urge you to try to attend this evening so that you can hear about the many wonderful things that we do here at GSG and also have the chance to ask any questions. Importantly, it is also a great chance to socialise with other parents and build that sense of community and partnership between parents and the school. 

All the best

Mr Jordan Owenell | Deputy Principal - Head of Secondary

Fish Traps Excursion

Last Thursday Year Seven students were welcomed onto the Fish Traps of Oyster Harbour by Aunty Vernice Gillies and Uncle Lester Coyne. Cameron played the digeridoo as they ate delicious fish burgers, pearl snapper cooked to perfection by Chef Nick. Unfortunately, the tide was in hence the fish traps couldn’t be seen, however students heard talks from Vernice, Lester, Larry Blight and archaeologist, Robert Reynolds. They learnt about native plants, tools and the significance of the site. We were also lucky enough to be gifted two boomerangs carved by Larry for the school. 

Music Ensembles

All our ensembles have started rehearsals this week and there have been lots of lovely sounds filling the Music building. New members are still welcome to join our ensembles.

Reminder that auditions for the Year Seven to Nine Rock Band take place Tuesday 18 February for interested students. 

Secondary School groups include Intermediate Strings, Foundation Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Senior Vocal Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, Flute Ensemble and Pipe Band.

Please contact the Music Office with any queries music@gsg.wa.edu.au

Instrumental lessons have vacancies on the following instruments:

Piano, keyboard, violin, cello, flute, voice, trumpet, trombone, French horn and classical guitar.

Ms Emma Luxton | Director of Music

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. (For 2025 the Canberra Tour is now fully subscribed).

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. (For 2025 the New York Tour is now fully subscribed).

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