Assistant Principals' Report

Rachel Robertson, Years 7 & 8

Congratulations to all year 7 students on their first few weeks of Secondary School. It has been heart-warming to observe the connections forming among peers, the enthusiasm for exploring new subjects, and the adaptability demonstrated in familiarisation with the college. Despite the heat, students have participated in various camp activities with enthusiasm and positivity. We would like to commend all students for their courage and the ways in which they have supported each other whilst on camp. 

It was very special to meet so many families at the Year 7 Welcome Night. We hope that the information shared was valuable and that the event provided an opportunity for you to connect with other parents/carers within your child’s class, perhaps even meeting their Homegroup/Wellbeing teacher too. 

Our Year 8 students eased back into the routine with a Settling In program, which was an opportunity to get to know their class peers and teachers with a series of ‘get-to-know-you’ games. I would like to thank all Year 8 Junior Ambassador leaders, who have supported us at the Parent Information Evenings and College Tours. Your leadership has truly made a difference in shaping our college community.

This year, our Wellbeing program is enriched by The Resilience Project. Students have received their journals and will embark on activities aimed at fostering resilience, gratitude, empathy and mindfulness. We are excited about the positive impact this program will have on our students’ mental health and overall wellbeing. You can learn more about this program here:  https://theresilienceproject.com.au/.

Renee Liprino, Years 9 & 10

Welcome to 2024 Year 9 and 10s! 

It has been a great start to the year, and I’m very excited to get to know everyone. So far, I’ve managed to participate in several Year 9 and 10 Home Groups and Wellbeing sessions to meet everyone, and I will regularly rotate through them, as well as attend assemblies. It has been great to see the 'Getting to Know You' Resilience Project collage activities. There have been a lot of gorgeous pet photos and favourite desserts, which I can definitely relate to, and lots of Taylor Swift fans. So, I suspect there will be lots of tired Year 9 and 10s after her concerts, and maybe a lot of friendship bracelets. I was also lucky enough to sit in two Elevate Educate study classes for Year 10s, and share ways I used to study.  

Congratulations to Year 10 Indiana Lewis for the release of her first single “Typical Pop Song.” I was lucky enough to play it to her Home Group, and it was thoroughly enjoyed, I suggest everyone give it a listen and bump up those Spotify numbers! 

Congratulations to all Year 9 and 10 students in leadership positions; it was exciting to see everyone stand up at our first Whole School Assembly. I was then super impressed by the Maris House chant practice – getting ready for the Swimming Carnival and inducting the new Year 7s. 

The MGC School Swimming Carnival is on Wednesday, February 21st, with School Photos the following day (so don’t get sunburnt swimming!) – and then Pedal Power Cinema on Friday, February 23rd. The MAPSS project starts on Monday, February 26th. 

We also have Homework Club after school every Monday and Thursday at 3:30 pm in Library B – so reach out for extra support or a quiet place to work with others. 

Thank you to all Year 9 and 10 families and carers who were able to attend Information Night; it was great meeting all of you. 

Here's to a great year ahead! 

Katherine Warriner, Years 11 & 12

Welcome back to the 2024 school year. It is with great enthusiasm that I assume the role of Assistant Principal overseeing the Year 11 and 12 students and programs. I am excited to be working with the students, staff and parents of Melbourne Girls’ College in this supportive and successful community.

With over two decades of experience in education, my journey has taken me from Craigieburn to London, and back to Preston Girls’ Secondary College, Nossal High School and, most recently, the Centre for Higher Education Studies (CHES) in South Yarra. As well as teaching Chemistry, Maths and Science, I have also held leadership positions in all schools I have worked in, including Director of VCE and Pathways and Assistant Principal positions.

The start of the year has been a busy time for our senior students marked by welcome back assemblies, engaging wellbeing sessions focussing on cultivating a Growth Mindset and the Year 12 camp. These experiences, and the many others offered at MGC, foster a sense of belonging, nurture confidence, and provide opportunities for students to explore their passions and strengths. 

We encourage students to continue to maintain a healthy balance in their lives throughout their VCE journey. Whether through participation in sport, part time work or social activities that bring them joy, these endeavours not only contribute to their overall wellbeing, but also serve as crucial reminders of the importance of relaxation and self-care.

I look forward to working with the entire Melbourne Girls’ community throughout this year, and beyond.