Junior School News

From Head of Junior School

Welcome back to Term 3. I hope that all our families had time over the holiday break to rest and reconnect. I have enjoyed the return after having a term of leave. While the weather wasn’t as warm as I had not long ago been enjoying, the welcome back from our students and families certainly was! My first days at the gate reminded me of why I am so fortunate to work in such a wonderful school community. I would like to express my sincere thanks to Mrs Bath, Mrs Peter and Mrs Burge for stepping in to lead the School in my absence. Knowing that there were such experienced, caring and capable leaders able to step into the respective roles meant that I could hit the road knowing that our families would be well cared for.

We have quite a few exciting events occurring this term with Ensembles in Week 5, Book Week in Week 6, Year 6 Transition Day (Imagine Day) in Week 7 and our ArtsFest in Week 8. This year we are combining the Grandparents and Special Friends Day, The Art Show and International Day into ArtsFest, which will also include a Senior School Art Show. We look forward to welcoming our parents into the school for these events throughout the term.

Mr Donald Thompson

Head of Junior School

Child Safety

At Girton, we are committed to ensuring the safety of every child within our community. I encourage parents to read the School Child Safety policies and guidelines that are available on our website and on Astra. 

To ensure the safety of our students, we are asking that all parents report to Junior School Reception if they are visiting the school during the school day. This does not mean that parents need to report to Reception in the morning for drop-off or after school for pick-up, but rather if you are coming in to the school during the day to drop off items or to volunteer with activities. Those parent volunteers who will be working with students will be taken through the Child Safety Induction at sign-in.

NAPLAN

This week our Year 3 and 5 parents received their children’s NAPLAN reports. As Dr O'Rielly noted in her eLink article, this year results are being reported in a more simplified format than previous years, with results being categorised into four bands. From this year, individual student performance will be categorised as Exceeding, Strong, Developing or Needs Additional Support. While parents will still be provided with numerical scores for their child’s performance in each aspect of NAPLAN, these scores are not comparable with previous years as the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) has reset the measurement scales. We will be able to compare student performance in future years as the scales will remain constant from this year.

While we cannot measure our performance this year against previous years, there are positive indications in our results. For example, we were particularly pleased with our Reading results, which indicated that 40.4% of our Year 3 students and 43.1% of our Year 5 students are Exceeding. This is extremely rewarding, as several years ago, we identified Reading as an area for improvement, and our staff have been working hard to promote and improve reading outcomes since that time. We look forward to receiving data at the end of Term 3 that will enable us to track our results against State and National performance, and hope to share a more detailed analysis at that time. 

New Student Representative Council Members

Congratulations to the Junior School Semester 2 Student Representative Council (SRC).  The SRC students were inducted at Assembly today after being elected by their peers.  The SRC students meet weekly to discuss ideas and initiatives on behalf of their fellow classmates.   

Soccer Tournament 

On Friday 16th June, the Junior School girls team played six pool games against Maiden Gully, Quarry Hill, Holy Rosary, Victory, Marist and Strathfieldsaye in the Sandhurst Division Soccer Tournament held in Epsom. The team won all their games, finishing the day as the top-ranked school. The team will now progress to the Loddon Campaspe Championships in Swan Hill in early August.

Game 1 v Maiden Gully (2-0) Goal-scorers: Maya Dhanapala and Norah Rao

Game 2 v Quarry Hill (2-0) Goal-scorer: Norah Rao

Game 3 v Holy Rosary (4-0) Goal-scorers: Lucy Richard x 2, Norah Rao and Alice McIntosh

Game 4 v Victory (2-0) Goal-scorers: Alice McIntosh and Lucy Richard

Game 5 v Marist (3-0) Goal-scorers: Ava Richards, Lucy Richard and Alice McIntosh

Game 6 v Strathfieldsaye (1-0) Goal-scorer: Maya Dhanapala

A wonderful effort by all of the Year 5 and 6 girls, many of whom had never played soccer before. Good luck to our girls team next week in Swan Hill. 

The Junior School boys team were in a pool of four with Marist, Maiden Gully and Quarry Hill. They won their first game against Marist comfortably with three goals to nil. Goal-scorers in this game were Zororo Tamangani, Tate Cantwell and Will Donaldson. 

In their second match, they fought gamely against eventual competition winners Quarry Hill, losing nil-one. In their third pool match, Girton won a lively game against Maiden Gully two-nil. The goal-scorers were Zororo Tamangani and Tate Cantwell. Girton finished second in their pool and played in a consolation match against Victory, which ended in a nil-all draw. 

Prep Excursion to the Farm

On the last day of Term 2, the Preparatory students visited Mrs James’ local farm as part of their studies on Paddock to Plate. The children had the opportunity to consolidate their understandings of where different goods originate. 

On Friday, we went to the farm. We learnt about sheep and we could take wool home. The wool was soft.

By Pelagia Prep D

On Friday we went to the farm. I climbed a big mountain with my friends. 

By Lucy Prep D

On Friday I went to a farm. At the farm I liked the sheep and the mud and the wool.

By Hannah Prep M

On Friday I went to a farm. At the farm I liked building the fairy garden.

By Anaisha Prep M

NAIDOC Week

We look back on the wonderful moments we shared during NAIDOC Week, where we came together to celebrate and honour the rich culture, history and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week is a significant event in our nation's calendar, providing an opportunity for all Australians to learn about and appreciate the invaluable contributions of First Nations people.

Under the theme 'For Our Elders', we acknowledged the incredible role that Elders play in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. From 2 to 9 July, a series of events and activities were held across the country, fostering reconciliation, respect and unity. In the Junior School, we held the event in the last week of term before the school holidays. 

Here are some of the highlights of our NAIDOC Week celebrations:

1. Welcome to Country and Smoke Ceremony: Our week began with a warm and heartfelt 'Welcome to Country' ceremony delivered by Jason Kerr, a respected member of the Dja Dja Wurrung community. Jason's presence and wisdom brought a profound sense of connection to the land and its heritage. He acknowledged the traditional custodianship of the Dja Dja Wurrung people and their continued stewardship of the country. Following the Welcome to Country, a traditional smoke ceremony was conducted by Jason Kerr. With great reverence, he lit bundles of native herbs and leaves, allowing the fragrant smoke to cleanse the event space. Amidst the festivities, the air was filled with the enchanting sounds of the didgeridoo played by none other than Jason Kerr himself. It was a profound and meaningful way to start the week-long celebrations, setting the tone for an event filled with learning, respect and cultural exchange.
    
2. Choir performance: The School was treated to a mesmerising song performance by the Year 3 to 6 student choir. The talented young voices came together to sing, Birrama Mana, a beautiful and poignant Indigenous song that carries deep cultural significance. The choir's performance was conducted by two exceptional Year 6 students, Ayaan and Meisha, who displayed remarkable leadership. We thank the work of Mrs Anne Begg, Mrs Belinda Moon and Mrs Laura Dusseljee in teaching the students the song.
    
3. Guest speakers: We were privileged to have Aunty Lyn Warren, a highly esteemed Elder, as our guest speaker at the assembly. Aunty Lyn shared stories in the library before the assembly, and students were mesmerised by her storytelling. Aunty Lyn graciously shared her stories and experiences, providing a unique and personal perspective on the theme of 'For Our Elders'. Her stories not only served as a window into the past but also as an inspiration for the future. We are immensely grateful to Aunty Lyn Warren for sharing her wisdom, stories and connections with us.
    
4. Art display: Before NAIDOC Week, students worked hard in their art classes to develop a collective art collage of a rainbow serpent. This was hung in front of our beautiful old peppercorn tree for all to see as they entered the gates.
    
5. Cultural workshop: Students in Prep to Year 3 immersed themselves in cultural workshops led by Aunty Eva Jo Edwards. They learned about traditional practices, language and crafts like basket weaving, painting and didgeridoo playing, gaining a deeper understanding of Indigenous heritage. Students in Years 4 to 6 had the privilege of participating in a powerful and insightful workshop led by Aunty Eva Jo Edwards, a member of the Stolen Generations. The workshop provided a unique opportunity for our students to learn about this dark chapter in Australia's history and gain a deeper understanding of its impact on Indigenous communities. 
    
6. Lunchtime activities: Our lunchtime activities were filled with joy, creativity and a deeper connection to Indigenous culture. Students and staff came together to participate in a range of engaging and educational activities, making it a truly memorable and inclusive week. Activities included flag making, rock painting, bushtucker tea and Dreamtime stories, and a dance party to finish a wonderful week. 

We would like to express our gratitude to all members of our Girton Grammar School community who actively participated in the events planned for NAIDOC Week. Your engagement and support played a vital role in making this a truly special and inclusive occasion.

As we move forward, let us continue to embrace and celebrate the richness of Indigenous culture and heritage, incorporating the lessons and values we learned during NAIDOC Week into our everyday lives.

Mrs Catherine Stagg

Teacher of Year 5V

Peer Mediation Program

This year we are implementing a peer mediation program in the Junior School.

Restorative Peer Mediators (RPMs) have an important role in working with school staff to support younger students at play times when upsets arise. RPMs work with students to help manage problems and upsets by asking restorative questions that focus on the issue and help students to find their own solutions to a problem. RPMs do not tell students what to do or give advice; they support younger students to find their own solutions. This is an important part of building problem-solving skills and resilience in our younger students.

The students were asked to apply and 24 were selected. The 24 were trained by Kristy Elliot from Restorative Pathways, who travelled from Melbourne last Thursday to conduct the day’s training. 

These students are just about to start work in the playground, armed with a pink vest with the words 'Peer Mediator' on the back and the Mood Meter on the front.

The students will predominantly work with younger students, supporting staff on duty and helping manage games and any problems that may arise in the playground.  This not only helps the teacher on duty but helps the Year 5 students build their leadership skills.

Mrs Viv Bath

Deputy Head of Junior School 

Recently, a select group of Year 5 students were trained by Kristy Elliot for the Peer Mediation Program. The Peer Mediation Program is new to Girton Grammar School. Students in Year 5 applied to become trained as Peer Mediators so they can help younger students solve conflict and problems in the yard. 

The trainee students were very curious during the training day and had lots of questions. They were trained through a series of scenarios and problems. The students worked hard and got through them, along with completing booklets they were supplied with at the start of the day.

All in all, the Year 5 Peer Mediators had a wonderful day and they can’t wait to start the program in a couple of weeks.

Alice McIntosh 5M

Gracie Seipolt 5M

State Cross Country

Thursday 13th July 2023, Yarra Valley Racing Club

Congratulations to Lucy Richard and Noah Kroschel for competing at this event over the holiday period. They were greeted with sunshine and a bright blue sky on the day but a wet and very muddy track.

These two students have progressed from regional events to this state event and produced outstanding results on the day.

Lucy finished 25th in the 12/13 Primary age group with a time of 13.49.

Noah finished 69th in the 11 Year Boys age group with a time of 13.41.

Our School is very proud of their efforts and representation across multiple cross country events this year.

Mr Paul Flanagan

Divisional Football

This week was the Divisional Football Tournament for both boys and girls in Years 5 and 6.

GIRLS

Despite limited experience and small numbers, the girls demonstrated amazing improvement each match. They finished the day with two wins, one draw and two losses.  They were ably led by Coach Peter, Jayda Lockwood (10 Jones) and Maya Langdon (10 Jones). The girls had a fun day and enjoyed learning new skills. 

BOYS

The boys had a big day playing against some high-quality opposition. Despite being undermanned, the boys played out each game to the end with some steady improvement throughout the day. Thank you to Coach Turner, Ben Hines (9 Frew) and Noah Willits (9 Jones) for their coaching and assistance to help the boys enjoy their day out playing one of their favourite sports. 

Mr John Gibbs

Teacher of Year 4

Aeroschools

The Girton Primary Aero Team took out the Overall Champion Primary School for the THIRD year in a row! The students were amazing with their performances, camaraderie and support of each other, with many placing in their sections. 

Here are some of the results:

1st: Maddy Canobie and Rosie Kuhle

1st: Maddy Canobie, Rosie Kuhle, Maya Reid and Emelia Carlson 

1st: Maya Dhanapala and Lauren Leung

1st: Amelia O’Rielly, Lauren Leung, Maya Dhanapala, Alicia Crowley and Chloe Jesser 

2nd: Amelia O’Rielly, Lauren Leung, Maya Dhanapala and Alicia Crowley

2nd: Maddie Canobie, Rosie Kuhle, Maya Reid, Emelia Carlson and Ruby O’Rielly

3rd: Emelia Carlson and Maya Reid 

3rd: Lilly Smith, Eloise Jesson, Camilla Christian, Siofra O’Malley, Lucia Chen and Saskia Koolos

4th: Arna Soni, Priya Thoutam, Avika Sapehiyia, Bella Song, Beatrice Batters and Nesha Reid

5th: Winnie Churches, Polly Byrne, Alice Shanley and Nasuli Jayakody 

White band: 

• Sophia Halley, Annie Rao, Beatrice Batters and Hettie Churches 
• Kiara Mori, Diva Panicker, Krisha Reddy and Diba Hemesh

Green band: 

• Winne Churches, Alice Shanley, Polly Byrne and Nesuli Jayakody 

Congratulations

On Sunday 18th June 2023, Aarya Sapehiyia, Ayaan Sapehiyia and Aarna Sapehiyia played in the Victorian Teams Championships for Badminton.

They played really well, with Aarya and Ayaan coming sixth in the state with their U13 team and Aarna coming fourth in the state with her U11 team. 

Descriptive Writing – Year Five 

The students of 5M used sensory language to describe a special place that holds important memories for them. 

They began by visualising their location and recording specific vocabulary that related to their five senses (smell, sight, touch, hearing, taste). These words were then woven into their writing to help create heightened reader engagement.

Beechworth Caravan Park by Gracie Seipolt 5M

I will never forget our trip to Beechworth Caravan Park. The vast plains filled to the brim with greenery, the mini waterfall, decorated with smooth, shiny rocks. These scenes could never be recreated. 

I remember the cabins and caravans lined up neatly, row by row. The pool with beams of sunlight reflecting off it. I will never forget the sound of people talking whilst their barbeques sizzled. The birds chirping high up in the treetops and down below the sound of the yells and screams coming from excited children. Sounds I’ll never forget.

The smell of chlorine and fresh water clashing together, but also complementing each other. The smoke from the campfires made my tummy rumble. I remember the freshly cooked meat straight off the grill, salads of all colours, complementing the natural beauty all around. Fresh fruit picked from the trees. Smells that you can’t recreate.

I will never forget these few joyous days in Beechworth. It will always have a place in my heart.

Barwon Heads by Henry Cooney 5M

I have always loved Barwon Heads for the lovely ocean waves that crashed into the rocks along the beach. We always rent a house that’s walking distance to the shops near the Barwon River. I always share a cosy room with Vincent.

We usually went to the beach everyday and saw children making sandcastles and surfers surfing massive waves. I smelled the salty water with seaweed. After a long session at the beach, we would sometimes get meat pies for lunch. We would go home then and watch test cricket or go to a family friend’s house.

I tasted salty fish and chips for dinner. I remember walking into town for a vanilla ice-cream form the Barwon Scoop for dessert. I heard funny stories Dad told us about when he was a kid with his friendly mates. I heard action-packed movies which were being streamed on our television.

When the movie finished, we would slowly but surely go to bed. Vincent and I would talk for a while. When we decided to actually go to bed I would say “Good night” and then I’d hear myself praying to God.

I remember on the final day going to the lolly shop and we would get $10 worth of lollies.

I will always love Barwon Heads.

Mount Eliza Beach by Allegra Krelle 5M

I’ll always remember when we’d go down the beach, walking down the sandy pathway and down the narrow old wooden stairs. Finally, we’d be there at the beach. I would see the ocean and the sun sparkling swiftly on the sea. I would hear people talking and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks and the seagulls squawking.

I smelled the fresh sea-salty water and the smell of the fresh evening air on my face. I tasted the sea water, splashing into my mouth. I touched the slimy jellies in my hand and the slimy seaweed, also the sand running through my fingers, softly.

I will never forget the first time I went there.

Grouse Mountain Ski Resort in Canada by Sean Morse 5M

I will never forget the beautiful sights and sounds of Grouse Mountain Ski Resort, with the white snow gliding down from the sky. The grizzly bears slowly walking up the river, carefully making sure that if they find a meal the eagles won’t take it.

I also remember the skilful skiers and snowboarders gliding graciously down the mountain side. I always wish I will be one of them someday. When I was learning, I could hear the sound of skis skidding on the more advanced track and feel the light breeze on the mountain.

After a few falls, while trying to ride the snowboard, I got used to the hard brick-sized snowballs scattered on the track. It was nice to get back to the lodge and have a warm lunch, also to get back into a heated room.

The lodge was very busy at midday. It was gigantic with beautifully polished wood walls. They even had part of a lodge for telling people about their resident grizzly bears, Grinder and Cooler.

When the safety patrol went past you could smell the fuel of the snowmobile and the beeping siren to warn people they were coming.

After you did the track, you had to take your foot out, which was annoying!

I will never forget my special place - Grouse Mountain.

Cochrane (Alberta, Canada) by Alice McIntosh 5M

I will never forget the smell of fresh snow in the morning when I’d wake up, and coming downstairs to the smell of fresh maple syrup on pancakes. I’ll never forget going outside and hearing people’s footsteps softly crunching on the snow and the sound of neighbours talking and communities gathering on a frozen cold winter morning.

I’ll never forget the sun glistening on the snow and watching it make light shadows on the footpath, as I walked along, softly scraping my hand against the mushy snow. 

I’ll never forget walking to Cochrane ranch, smelling pine trees and I walked over the little red bridge on to the old walking path with unique, interesting trees making out shapes you’ve never seen before. 

I’ll never forget my hometown in Cochrane, and the wonderful community that welcomed me in.

My Grandma’s House (Zimbawe) by Zoro Tamagani 5M

I will never forget my Grandma’s house. I remember the fun soccer and anime we watched on the TV. Every glorious morning, I woke up to the smell of porridge that I would end up devouring down my throat. I heard the buzzing flies directly in my ear while climbing the spiky tall trees with beautiful juicy fruits, ready to be gobbled with joy.

I remember tasting those sizzling sausages accompanied by refreshing cordial. I heard the un-recreatable laughter and pleasantness of families and friends. I remember kneeling down into a little chicken cubby and shooing them away to find their eggs.

I loved my time there and this is why my Grandma’s house will always be my special place.

The Campsite by Steel Austin 5M

I live on a block and sometimes if it’s a nice day, we like to go to an area on my block that has a lot of fresh eucalyptus trees. We travel there with our rusty wheelbarrow. It has our supplies for camping, like our food and drinks and a lot of other goods.

We go to our usual spot that has a mini stream and a flat metal tray we use for cooking steak, onion, sausages and more. When I get my food it is steamy and hot from the warm from the campfire. Then I open a refreshing can of lemonade. 

I can hear kookaburras laughing and the crickets buzzing. I feel the spiky grass on my feet and my dog laying on my lap. When we finished our dinner, my Mu would put the marshmallows on the sticks and we’d all have a delicious s’more. That’s my special place.