From the
Head of Senior School
Welcome Back to Term 1, 2026
Dear Parents, Carers and Students,
Welcome to the start of Term 1, 2026. I hope you have all enjoyed a safe, restful and refreshing summer break and that the year ahead begins with optimism and enthusiasm for our whole school community.
A new school year always brings with it a sense of excitement, fresh goals and renewed energy. Whether you are returning to our community or joining us for the first time, we are delighted to have you with us and look forward to working in partnership to support every student’s learning, wellbeing and growth.
A Strong Start to the Year
The beginning of Term 1 is an important time for setting expectations, building relationships and establishing positive routines. Students will spend the early weeks reconnecting with peers, getting to know their teachers, and settling into learning programs designed to challenge and support them throughout the year.
Our focus remains on:
- High-quality teaching and learning
- Student wellbeing and belonging
- Positive relationships and respectful behaviour
- Clear communication between home and school
Together, these foundations help ensure every student feels supported and empowered to do their best.
Welcoming New Students and Staff
We warmly welcome all new students and families joining our community this year. Starting at a new school is a significant milestone, and we are committed to ensuring students feel safe, known and valued from their very first day.
We also welcome new staff members who bring with them a wealth of experience, passion and dedication. We look forward to the positive contribution they will make to our students and broader school life.
📅 Term 1, 2026 – Key Dates and Events (Highlights)
Week 1A
- Monday: Start of Term 1 (Years 7, 11 & 12) | Year 7 Orientation Day 3
- Tuesday: Start of Term 1 (Years 8–10) | Year 7 Orientation Day 4 | Class of 2025 Celebration and Commencement Assembly (Period 2), followed by Morning Tea
- Wednesday: Extended Tutor
- Thursday: Year 8 Camp Meeting (Tutor)
Friday: Icebreakers Evening – 7.00pm
Week 2B
- Monday: House Meetings for Swimming Carnival
- Wednesday: Scholarship Exams and Open Morning
- Thursday: Student Leaders Service at St Andrew’s Cathedral
- Friday: Swimming Carnival at Glenbrook Pool
Saturday: ISA Summer Sport Round 9
Week 3A
- All Week: Year 8 Camp
- Wednesday: Assembly (Years 10–12) | Extended Tutor (Years 7 & 9)
Saturday: Open Day | ISA Summer Sport Round 10
Week 4B
- Monday: Year 12 Parent–Teacher Night
- Wednesday: Years 7–12 Assembly
Saturday: ISA Sport Semi Finals
Week 5A
- All Week: Year 7 Camp
- Wednesday: Extended Tutor | Year 12 Advanced English The Tempest Symposium
Saturday: ISA Summer Sport Final
Week 6B
- Wednesday: Years 7–12 Assembly (International Women’s Day & Pink Mufti Day)
- Wednesday–Friday: NAPLAN
Thursday: Year 11 Ancient History Excursion
Week 7A
- All Week: Year 12 Blackout Week
- Monday & Tuesday: NAPLAN
Wednesday: Year 7–9 Assembly | Years 10–12 Extended Tutor
Week 8B
- All Week: Year 12 Assessment Week
- Tuesday: 2026 Science and Engineering Challenge
Wednesday: House Meetings for Cross Country
Week 9A
- Wednesday: Senior School Cross Country (AM) | Junior School Cross Country (PM)
Thursday: Last Day of Term 1
Communication and Partnership
Strong communication between school and home is vital. Please continue to check Schoolbox, emails and newsletters regularly for important updates, key dates and reminders.
If you have any questions or concerns at any time, we encourage you to reach out to your child’s tutor, classroom teacher or the relevant member of staff. Early communication allows us to work together effectively and support students in a timely way.
Looking Ahead
Term 1 is always a busy and rewarding time, with learning programs well underway and a range of academic, sporting, cultural and co-curricular opportunities on offer. We encourage students to become involved, challenge themselves and make the most of all that school life has to offer.
Thank you for your continued support and trust. We wish all students a successful and positive start to the 2026 school year.
Warm regards,
Alicia Michielsen
Head of Senior School
Annual Archbishop's Service for Prefects of Anglican Schools
Today, my fellow leaders and I were fortunate enough to attend the Annual Archbishop’s Service for Prefects of Anglican Schools at St Andrew’s Cathedral. It was a meaningful and reflective morning spent alongside student leaders from Anglican schools across the community. What a great privilege to represent Blue Mountains Grammar School. The service gave us the opportunity to pause, reflect, and consider the true purpose of leadership grounded in faith and service.
One of the most valuable lessons we took away came from the words of Archbishop from the bible. “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” This powerful message reminded me that leadership is about setting an example through humility, kindness, and service to others. As a Year 12 leader, I am incredibly fortunate to be given the opportunity to act as a role model within the Blue Mountains Grammar School community, using this responsibility to support others, foster kindness, and strengthen our school culture. This experience reinforced our commitment to leading with integrity and compassion, and to serving our school in a way that truly reflects our faith.
Written by Ava Armstrong, Year 12 Leader