From the Principal

I recently had the opportunity to attend the National Education Forum, an insightful gathering of independent school leaders hosted by Independent Schools Australia (ISA) and the Association of Heads of Independent Schools (AHISA). The 2025 forum theme, ‘The Changing Landscape,’ prompted attendees to deeply consider the changes that may impact independent schools in the years ahead – including those that will be influenced by this year’s federal election and the 2026 state election.  

Among the many thought-provoking sessions, we heard from representatives of both major political parties: Senator Deborah O’Neill from the Australian Labor Party, and the Hon. Sarah Henderson representing the Coalition. Their presentations resonated with me not only as an independent school principal but as a parent. While the daily responsibilities of school leadership and parenting typically take precedence over political discourse, it became clear to me that these upcoming elections have the potential to significantly shape the future of independent education and warrant our close attention to ensure we’re choosing the best outcomes for our children and families.

While the federal election date is yet to be announced and specific policy details are still emerging, school funding – including funding for independent schools – is likely to be a key issue. Regarding the federal election, ISA and others anticipate that the Greens may advocate for ­changes that could reduce funding to some independent schools. And closer to home, the Victorian Liberals and Nationals have pledged to abolish payroll tax for all Victorian schools if elected. Following the removal of the payroll tax exemption for non-government schools in 2024, the tax has already had an impact on many schools and families and, unless abolished, is likely to affect more in the coming years, including our own.

Of course, public debate surrounding independent and government schooling is not new. However, the unhelpful ‘us versus them’ rhetoric seems to be becoming increasingly prevalent, not only among media outlets but in political commentary as well. Independent schools are often branded as ‘elite’, perpetuating the false assumption that families who choose this path are immune to the financial pressures being faced across the country. I know firsthand the dedication and sacrifice many Girton families choose to make. And that is what this debate ultimately boils down to – the right of families to choose what they believe is best for their children, and to do so with confidence and stability around school funding. 

Here in our region, we are fortunate to have many wonderful schools, each offering their own unique programs and opportunities. Having worked across the government, Catholic and independent sectors – and knowing many educators and families within them – I can say with confidence that we all share a common goal of supporting the learning and wellbeing of young people. Rather than being pitted against each other, schools should be working together and sharing knowledge to achieve the best outcomes for every young person in our region.

Looking ahead, over the next two years, all families will have a valuable opportunity to weigh up the education policies being presented and consider how they could affect school funding and the educational opportunities available. Now is the time to tune into the debate, so we can make the most informed choices for our families. I sincerely hope that the governments elected – both federally and at the state level – will support stable, equitable school funding, support freedom of choice for families, and foster genuine collaboration across all school sectors. And ultimately, I hope that we can form a shared understanding that what unites us far outweighs what sets us apart.

As I reflect on the past two weeks at Girton, I am reminded of more examples of how our shared humanity transcends our differences. Today, our Senior School students and staff marked Harmony Day with a special lunchtime celebration, and on Wednesday, I was delighted to witness the strong bonds that have formed between the students and staff of Girton and Gojo, as we held a farewell celebration for our guests from Japan. Thank you again to the families who warmly welcomed our visitors into their homes and helped to foster friendships that bridge cultural, linguistic and geographic divides. 

This week, we were also delighted to see our students’ theatrical talents and creativity on full display at our One Act Play Festival, and to witness our Junior School students’ compassion in action as they raised funds through the World’s Greatest Shave. To round out the week, tomorrow marks the final day of the Girton Interschool Dressage Championships, an exciting event that draws competitors from across the state. I wish the very best to our Girton Equestrian Team, and extend my sincere gratitude to the parents, carers and staff members who have made this wonderful event possible. 

Finally, I wanted to thank those parents and carers who have already taken the time to complete our Co-curriculum Survey. If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to do so, the survey will remain open until 5pm on Monday 24 March. Your feedback will play a pivotal role in enhancing and refining our program, and we truly value your input.

Wishing you all a wonderful, restful weekend as we approach the final weeks of Term 1 and the much-anticipated Camps Week. 

Dr Emma O’Rielly

Principal