Student Wellbeing

As we conclude this chapter in Shelford’s story, I want to express how immensely proud I am of our senior school students. Their resilience, determination, and commitment to our values of integrity, respect, and creativity have shone brightly this year. 

This year has been filled with moments of growth, connection, and success. The bonds we’ve built and the memories we’ve created will remain a lasting testament to the strength and spirit of our community. 

Thank you for your support and dedication to our students’ success. It has been a privilege to witness their growth and to share in this final Shelford chapter with them. I wish all students and families the very best on their future journeys and hope they will always carry the Shelford spirit with them. 

Remembrance Day 

On Monday 11 Nov at 11am the School paused to remember the courage and sacrifice of Australians and their allies who have served in wars, conflicts and peace operations. Since 1918, we have kept our promise to never forget the 416,000 Australians who enlisted and the 60,000 who died. We remember them still. 

Thanks to Tristan Hill, our Head of Humanities, for helping to write the following piece in honour of Remembrance Day.  

An armistice was declared at 11am on the 11th of the 11th month (November) 1918, signalling the end of what was known as ‘the Great War’. Across Australia, the announcement sparked celebrations, though joy was tempered by the loss of beloved brothers, fathers, and friends. Memorials were erected nationwide to honour those who served and sacrificed, many of which remain part of our communities today. 

Memorial Park, located just a kilometre from Shelford, commemorates those who served in World War I. Nearby at Caulfield Park there is a 1995 memorial to the 1917 Battle of Beersheeba, demonstrating Melbourne’s dedication to honouring the local community’s connection to the First World War. In the city, the Shrine of Remembrance was built to commemorate what was hoped to be the ‘war to end all wars’.  

In 1919, King George V proclaimed a two-minute silence at 11 am on 11 November to mark the end of the Great War. Australians gathered at local memorials to honour the fallen—a tradition that has since extended to honour those who served in World War II and other conflicts. Today, the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial lists over 103,000 Australians who lost their lives in war and conflict. 

Reference: DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs) (2024), Remembrance Day 11 November, DVA Anzac Portal, accessed 31 October 2024, https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/commemoration/days/remembrance-day 

Presentation Evening 

This year’s Presentation Evening held particular significance, marking Shelford’s final year and serving as a memorable occasion to honour our students’ achievements and the legacy of our school community. The evening featured performances, awards, and reflections as we celebrated Shelford’s remarkable journey. 

Wellbeing Days 

Following Presentation Evening, our Wellbeing Daystook place onThursday 21 and Friday 22 November. These two days offered a valuable opportunity for each year level and the Senior School as a whole to come together before students began their transition programs for 2025. In collaboration with their Year Level Coordinator, each year level crafted a program centred around the themes of celebration, reflection, and connection. These days provided a wonderful chance for us to gather as a school community, celebrating our shared journey and the bonds that unite us. 

 It's a Shelford World Program 

This week, our students are actively participating in the 'It’s a Shelford World' Program. They are engaging in a variety of exciting activities designed to celebrate Shelford, connect with their peers, and take part in interactive, hands-on sessions. 

Final Student Day Mon 2 Dec 

Next Monday, we will come together as a whole school for the final time in our last assembly. During this assembly, we will present our semester awards and celebrate the achievements of the year. Following the assembly, we will share a morning tea before students transitioning to Caulfield depart for their 'Lift Up' program. We are also looking forward to a fun offsite activity with the remaining students, after which they will be dismissed at 12:40 pm. 

Term 4 – Upcoming Key Dates