Principal's Report
Learning at MGC
We have experienced another busy fortnight of learning and activities at MGC. Thank you to Jason Chen who led a delegation of our girls to the Beijing Summer Camp from 13th to 24th July. The opportunity to experience Chinese hospitality, culture and meet over 800 fellow students of Chinese language from across the globe was invaluable.
Thank you to Ms. Ping Ping Elliott and Ms. Lucy Chen who oversaw our students’ participation and success in the Global Bilingual Speaking Competition last weekend. Congratulations to Claudia McLeod, Savarna Chandra, Viva Wilton, Jacqulin Green, Hannah Ross and Katherine Jessop. The dedication of our staff continues with thanks to Chris Lattin, Leigh Hanley and team for overseeing the Year 9 City Experience program, and to Anne Corry, Lindy Mumme and team for all of the preparations leading up to our musical, The Wizard of Oz.
I have enjoyed being a part of the team counselling Year 11 students into Year 12 subjects over the past week. It is a privilege to hear about the aspirations and interests of each girl as they decide on the best course for their future success. The information night on 26 July was attended by over 300 people, thank you to parents and staff for all of your support.
On 17th July Chelsea Hammond, Georgina Batten, Lola McCaughy and Olivia Walkenshaw headed off for Gnurad-Gundidj and the School for Student Leadership. The girls will immerse in a range of adventures and prepare for a Community Learning Project. It is a big commitment to be away from home until 17th September, for both themselves and their families. Thank you Ms. Tellefson, Ms. Lattin and Ms. Hanley for organising this opportunity.
A successful launch to the 2017 Space Camp in the US was held last night. Many interested girls and families were briefed by Wendy and Tony Keen on this new STEAM initiative.
The 2017 NY Art & Design Technology trip has 30 students confirmed to go to LA and New York next year, thank you to Roger Dunscombe, Harriet Turnball and Jo Jepsen for their work on this.
Minister James Merlino, Deputy Premier, Minister for Education, Minister for Emergency Services and the MGC STEAM Program
On Monday 18th July Minister Merlino, his advisor Mr. Chris Carpenter and Mr. Chris Thompson Area Executive Director, North Eastern Melbourne visited the Science Technology Engineering Arts and Mathematics Centre at MGC. The Minister worked alongside the girls as they taught him about the various coding, technological and problem based learning stations. Thank you to our STEAM Leader, Wendy Keen, Ms. Emily Rochette, Mr. Tony Keen and our students for their excellent work.
MGC Rowing and Farewell Nick Wells
It is with sadness we farewell a great Head Rowing Coach, Mr Nick Wells from the banks of MGC. Nick’s leadership, kindness and skill have developed the excellent rowing club we see today. Nick intends to complete his teaching degree and undertake a part time working role which will facilitate the time required for this study.
Thank you to the parents who ensure MGC Rowing is successful behind the scenes as we prepare for another great season of rowing. Congratulations to our President Shelley Anderson, Treasurer Ian Ferguson and new members for your election to the committee at the 13 July, 2016 Annual General Meeting.
Leading Asia Capable Schools
On 25 and 26 July I took part in initial work on the Leading Asia Capable Schools program. This DET initiative is designed to ensure students are global citizens well prepared for involvement with our closest International neighbours.. MGC already has an outward looking focus on learning through the International Student Program, Confucius Institute, global links to Sustainability initiatives, entrepreneurial learning with Yong Zhao, exchange and study programs. This program will add to the perspective of our students as both global and local learners.
Best regards, Karen