From the Principal

As the first half of our academic year draws to a close and students commence their end-of-semester assessments and examinations, we enter a time of reflection and transition at Girton. It is an opportunity for our students to look back on – and celebrate – all that has been achieved so far, while turning their minds to what the rest of the year will hold.  

Of course, reflecting on their academic learning is just one element of this. To develop well-rounded young people who can truly flourish in their preferred future, we know that multiple elements must work in tandem. This is why, at Girton, we are dedicated to providing a strong academic foundation complemented by a focus on social-emotional learning, wellbeing and engagement. This is supported by our House system, Co-curriculum activities, Senior School Co-connect program, and the RULER and Flourish SEL programs. 

On Wednesday, I spoke to our Senior School students about some important changes we are making to one of these fundamental elements: our Co-connect program. We remain deeply committed to this initiative, given the beneficial opportunities it provides our students to develop peer and community connections that support wellbeing and academic success. However, that said, there is always room to improve – and there are several enhancements we would like to make based on consultation with our school community.  

While feedback overwhelmingly affirmed the value of having dedicated time to foster connections, many students indicated that they would like the ability to select Co-connect activities that reflect their individual interests. Additionally, VCE students expressed a desire to complete SACs and additional study during Co-connect time, while those who live outside Bendigo wanted the ability to access some of the co-curricular activities that currently take place outside school hours.  

After careful consideration of the feedback gathered, I am pleased to share a refreshed approach that retains the best elements of our Senior School Co-connect Program while improving student choice and accessibility. From Semester 2, we will begin trialling a new structure that allows students in Years 7 to 10 to select one activity per semester to complete during Co-connect time. A wide range of options will be available, including book clubs, dance, debating, group games, media, production preparation, relaxation activities, sports, STEM and student voice groups. Some of these will be replicated from our co-curriculum program to provide increased accessibility, while other activities have been newly created. As part of the new structure, students in Years 11 and 12 will not be required to select a Co-connect activity but will instead use this time for structured study sessions with teacher support, as well as for the completion of SACs. 

During the trial period, we will be closely monitoring the Co-connect program and making additional adjustments as needed based on feedback. Please note that there will be no changes to the existing Co-curriculum program in Semester 2, with students continuing with their current commitments as usual. However, we will be looking at the Co-curriculum program in detail as we work through the full results of the Co-curriculum Review, and will advise of any changes in due course.  

I would like to thank the many students, staff and family members who have helped to shape these improvements, which I am confident will offer greater flexibility, enjoyment and equity for all students. We will be sharing more detailed information shortly, including how students can make their Co-connect selections for Semester 2, and I look forward to providing further updates as the trial unfolds and we prepare for full implementation in 2026.  

Finally, as we conclude a productive Semester 1, I wanted to remind you that next week will include a four-day weekend, with Friday 6 June being a pupil-free day and Monday 9 June being the King’s Birthday public holiday. I hope our students enjoy a well-deserved break to close out the first half of the year, and I look forward to seeing them return refreshed and ready for a wonderful Semester 2. Thank you for your continued support throughout this semester, and I wish you a safe and relaxing weekend ahead. 

Dr Emma O’Rielly 

Principal