Secondary Years
Year 10 Art Students Visit NGV Winter Masterpieces: CARTIER
On Tuesday 16 June, the Year 10 Art class visited NGV International to experience the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition, CARTIER.
Our visit began with an informative presentation by NGV Educator Monique, who introduced us to the history of the Cartier family, their famous clientele, and the craftsmanship behind some of the world's most celebrated jewellery designs. Students were also interested to meet five work-experience students spending the week at the NGV, which provided some inspiration for future study and career pathways.
The exhibition featured more than 400 extraordinary objects, including precious jewels, historic gemstones, iconic watches and magnificent clocks. Through creations owned and worn by figures such as Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly, Rihanna, Princess Margaret, Dame Nellie Melba, and many others, students gained a deeper appreciation of Cartier's enduring influence on art, design and fashion.
A highlight was learning about Australian soprano Dame Nellie Melba, one of Cartier's early and important clients. Students enjoyed viewing jewellery she owned, a life-size portrait by Rupert Bunny, and historical photographs that helped bring her story to life.
Towards the end of the exhibition, we were captivated by the famous Scroll Tiara (1902), worn by Lady Clementine Churchill at Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and later with the matching Scroll Choker by Rihanna on the cover of W Magazine in 2016. Seeing the same stunning piece worn by women from such different eras was a fantastic reminder of how great design can transcend time and fashion.
It was a wonderful day of learning and inspiration, giving students a firsthand experience of the ways art, history, fashion and design come together to create objects of lasting beauty and significance.
Annabella Helmer
Teacher
From Student Artist to University Creative / Seeing Success Come Full Circle
On Thursday 25 June, we were delighted to welcome back former student and last year's Dux, Alianna Matnog, to our classroom. Alianna finally had the opportunity to see her beautifully decorated guitar on display, alongside the many instruments our students created after being inspired by her original idea. We had all been eagerly waiting to see the guitars hanging together, and her visit made the occasion even more special.
It was a wonderful celebration of creativity, with Alianna taking the time to chat with each student and admire the current artworks they were finishing off, (Interpositioned Animals: acrylic paint on canvas). Now studying Art and Psychology at the University of Melbourne, Alianna generously shared her experiences and encouraged our young artists. She also offered her support, letting students know she is always happy to provide advice or assistance in the future.
Many families may remember Alianna's impressive digital artworks from past newsletters, or perhaps even her digital art presentation at a school assembly. It was inspiring to hear that she continues to pursue her artistic passions and develop her creative practice. We are incredibly proud that GNLC helped nurture her confidence as an artist and provided a place where she could first share her work with others. Seeing her return to celebrate alongside our students was a wonderful reminder of the lasting impact of creativity, encouragement, and community.
Annabella Helmer
Teacher
AGTV (Association of German Teachers Victoria) German Poetry Competition – Regional Finals Results
We are incredibly proud of our students and their outstanding achievements at the AGTV German Poetry Competition Regional Finals held this week. As part of the competition, students were required to learn a German poem by heart and recite it to a panel of judges.
The Regional Finals brought together the top 12 students from each year level across three schools: Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School, University High School, and Good News Lutheran College. All participants had previously won their respective school competitions. At Good News Lutheran College, more than 45 students participated in our School Finals on Monday lunchtime for the opportunity to qualify for the Regional Finals.
Our students presented their poems with confidence, enthusiasm, and excellent German language skills, achieving outstanding results. Their success is a testament to their dedication, hard work, and willingness to challenge themselves, as well as the ongoing support and encouragement provided by their German teachers.
Year 7 - Sahil Sanghavi, Second Price
Year 8 – Ruansh Chowdhury, First Prize
Year 9 – Payton Firth, Third Prize
Honorary Mentions – Anika Diaz, Niranjani Niranjani
The top two students from each year level, and potentially third prize students, will be invited by the AGTV to compete in the State Finals on 22 August. We wish all qualifying students the very best and look forward to hearing about their experiences at this next stage of the competition.
Samples of our students' presentations can be viewed below, showcasing the high standard of German language proficiency and presentation skills demonstrated throughout the competition.
Congratulations to all students involved on this fantastic achievement!