From the Head of Senior School

As we complete the final week of the term, it is a time to reflect on the many achievements of our students while also preparing for the exciting challenges ahead in Term 4. Our school community has been buzzing with our students' energy and creativity, culminating in several standout events and opportunities that have made this term memorable.

ArtFest

Last weekend, we saw a remarkable display of our students' artistic talents at the Bendigo Town Hall. The creativity on show was astounding, from vibrant paintings to spectacular multimedia displays. Seeing so many people from the community gather to appreciate our budding artists' hard work and imagination was heartwarming. Well done to our students – you have certainly made the school proud.

The event was a triumph thanks to the hard work and dedication of the many people who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring it to life. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made the festival such a success. First and foremost, thank you to the Visual Arts Department, led by Mrs Nic James, for curating an incredible display of talent. Their commitment to fostering artistic expression among our students is truly inspiring, and the festival would not have been the same without their expert guidance. A special mention must go to our Maintenance Team, who ensured the event spaces were perfectly prepared, with their attention to detail and hard work ensuring a smooth set-up and pack-down. Our Tech Crew's work with the lighting, sound and multimedia displays was exceptional, with their professionalism ensuring every technical aspect of the event ran smoothly. We also owe a debt of gratitude to the Marketing and Communications Team for helping to engage the broader community in the festival, ensuring we had an incredible turnout. Finally, thank you to all the parents and students who volunteered to help set up and support the festival. Their enthusiasm and willingness to lend a hand were invaluable.

Middle School Production: Frozen Jr

Our Year 7 to 9 students captivated audiences this week with their enchanting production of Frozen Jr. The dedication and effort that went into rehearsals were evident in every scene, from the stunning set design to the powerful performances. Congratulations to the entire cast and crew for putting on such a magical show. It was truly humbling to watch the students showcase their talents in singing and acting as they brought the much-loved characters to life. Miss Emily Holmes is to be congratulated on her directorial debut, providing a magical experience for the students and the audience.

Japan Trip

This week, we also saw 16 students and staff depart for Japan as part of the school's cultural exchange program with Gojo. The tour will provide an incredible opportunity for our school communities to continue learning from one another, after hosting the Gojo students at Girton earlier this year. We look forward to further enriching our schools' cross-cultural friendship and hearing about our students' experiences upon their return.

Preparing for VCE exams

With the term coming to a close, our Year 12 students are now preparing for their upcoming VCE exams. While the holidays will provide a well-deserved break, it's also a crucial time for study and preparation. Below are some study tips to help our Year 12s make the most of their time away from school:

Create a study plan: Divide your study schedule into manageable chunks and set realistic goals for each day to cover all subjects.
Take breaks: Don't forget to rest. Regular breaks will help you stay focused and avoid burnout.
Practise past exams: Familiarising yourself with past VCE papers will give you a feel for the types of questions and timing.
Stay active: Exercise can boost concentration and reduce stress – make time for a walk, run or any activity you enjoy.
Stay positive: Believe in your preparation and hard work.

We wish all our Year 12s the best of luck as they head into this final stretch of their schooling journey. As we wrap up this term, I want to wish all students and parents a restful and productive break, and we look forward to seeing everyone back refreshed and ready for the final term of 2024.

Ms Dawn Davis

Head of Senior School