From the Head of Junior School

I trust that the mothers in our Junior School community had an enjoyable day last Sunday. I hope you enjoyed the thoughtful, handwritten cards and lovely drawings accompanying the gifts from our Mother’s Day Stall. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our Friends of Junior School and the many volunteers who work to make these days so special.

Earlier this week, I spent time observing the Junior School community. Starting at the gate, I witnessed parents assisting their children in the daily transition to School. With varying degrees of ease, the importance of collaboration between parents and teachers was evident. Later, I greeted students eagerly waiting for the bus to the District Athletics. We chatted about the ongoing support and encouragement provided by parents and carers leading up to this moment. As I toured classrooms, I observed engaging lessons, individual support sessions, and preparations for School photos and a specialised gym class. The library hosted parents participating in the Tuning Into Kids program. Throughout these encounters, I recognised the dedicated efforts of teachers, support and administration staff, and School psychologists, collectively ensuring a seamless School day.

Teamwork lies at the heart of every great accomplishment. Whether it's a sporting team working towards a championship, a group of teachers collaborating to design innovative lesson plans, or students partnering to tackle a challenging project, the synergy created through teamwork propels us forward. It fosters a sense of belonging, instils valuable life skills, and strengthens the bonds that make our School community truly exceptional.

In this, the 30th year of Girton Grammar School, we have been reminded through stories and celebrations that this School may not be here if not for the teamwork of our Founders and predecessors. Teamwork also plays a vital role in developing social and emotional intelligence. Our School emphasises the importance of a nurturing and inclusive community where every student feels safe, supported, and valued. Through collaborative projects, group activities, and co-curricular activities, students learn the significance of cooperation, compromise, and shared responsibility.

In the Junior School, we actively promote teamwork in various ways. Our teachers encourage cooperative learning through group work, peer mentoring, and classroom discussions that require active participation from every student. We organise team-building activities such as excursions or sports events and community service initiatives such as this weekend’s Red Shield Appeal. These activities bring students together outside the classroom, fostering friendships and promoting a sense of camaraderie. We also believe in the power of collaboration between parents, teachers and administrators, as their combined efforts create a strong support system for our students. Our recent Mother’s Day Stall is a perfect example of this combined teamwork.

As we continue to nurture a culture of teamwork at our School, we encourage parents and carers to reinforce these values at home. Encourage your child to actively participate in group projects, clubs, and co-curricular activities, helping them develop strong collaborative skills. Engage in open conversations about the importance of teamwork and its real-world applications.

Mrs Viv Bath

Acting Head of Junior School

Mother's Day Stall

Friends of Junior School once again ran our annual Mother’s Day Stall last Thursday. They gathered parents to assist with purchasing, wrapping, and working on the stall for the students.

Students enjoyed their shopping experience, choosing the perfect gift for their special someone and decorating their gift bags.

Thank you to the Friends of Junior School parents who volunteered to purchase, sort, and wrap gifts and also assist at the stall. Your support of our Junior School students on this special occasion is very much appreciated.

Art Gallery Excursions

As part of the Art Curriculum this semester, students visited the Bendigo Art Gallery to explore the Exhibition Australiana. The students were fortunate to have a First Nations Educator hosting the tours. It was a very exciting opportunity to view this new exhibition at the Gallery.

District Athletics

On Tuesday 16th May, 59 Junior School students represented Girton Grammar School at the District Athletics. Students in the District Athletics Team had placed first or second in our School Athletics to represent at this event. hey had a great day with the rain threatening at one stage, but holding off enough for the event to continue throughout the day.

The team performed well and it was great to see their support for each other in their individual and team relay events. Thank you to Mrs Hamilton, Mr Doherty, and Mr Robertson who all assisted to run the event on the day, and to Ms Moss and Mr Di Fede for attending and supporting the students. Congratulations to all students who competed and we wish those who qualified for the Divisional Athletics all the best next term.

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