Senior School

The aphorism “ nature abhors a vacuum” (or horror vacui for those who enjoy Latin) is often attributed to Aristotle, and in the context of communities speaks to the age-old truth that where people feel they lack information, speculation and misunderstanding may soon fill the gap. We have found this old saying to be true in these past weeks in a range of contexts, and as a Senior School Team have worked hard to provide as much information as possible to both our students and parents on a range of topics. 

For those who have not found time to read the two key letters I have sent in recent weeks relating in the first instance to mobile phones and in the second instance to vaping, I encourage you to do so. They are available via the Parent Portal. We believe strongly in tackling challenging issues in partnership with our parents, all the more so where we see doing so as necessary to ensure the safety of our children and young people. I also encourage both parents and students to reach out to the appropriate School personnel and ask questions should you have concerns.

Thank you to our Dean of Curriculum, Mrs. Alicia Michielsen and to our Facilities and Admin Teams for an outstanding Careers Expo on Tuesday. With over thirty presenters from universities, TAFE, and industry, I was thrilled to hear some students note that they were now more certain of their post-school directions. I was equally thrilled to hear others who had previously been certain now filled with excited uncertainty as new potential futures were opened to them. It was also a pleasure to catch up with so many of our Senior School parents as they joined their children at the Expo for this important conversation. 

On Wednesday evening we also hosted our Year 10 into 11 Subject Information Evening. My sincere thanks to the teachers and staff who stayed back late into the evening to ensure that our students and families have all the relevant information to make informed choices. I will look forward to meeting with each and every Year 10 student in coming weeks to discuss their Year 11 subject selections, alongside Mrs. Michielsen.

Thank you to Mrs. Jacqui Haines, our Director of Student Culture and Character Development, and the Year 9 and 10 Tutors for a big week in our Wellbeing Program. On Wednesday, Year 9 attended the Stand Tall Excursion, while Year 10 enjoyed the challenging discussions of the Yourchoice Respectful Relationships Seminars. As we have always been here at BMGS, we are committed not only to providing our students with an outstanding academic education, but also speaking into the growth of character and the skills needed to lifelong positive relationships. 

Mr Owen Laffin

Deputy Head - Head of Senior School