Principal’s Report

Tamy Stubley

Melbourne Girls’ College is committed to providing experiential learning through camps, excursions, immersions, and various challenges planned throughout the school year. Learning beyond the classroom has begun, with many students already having the opportunity to draw upon the experiences and expertise of others in our wider community. These excursion, guest speakers and workshops enable and challenge students to explore, wonder, create and connect in a number of different ways and we look forward to sharing many of their adventures along the way. 

 

We are now at the end of week 5 and our new Year 7 cohort are adjusting brilliantly to life at Melbourne Girls’ College. Our group of nearly 250 students have come together and enjoyed many new experiences including peer support, camp and our swimming carnival. There have been so many stories of students enjoying their transition into MGC, making new friends, learning how to catch public transport, and even developing life skills. From all accounts they are enjoying new lessons in the science labs, the kitchen, STEAM centre and are embracing different subjects and rising to each new challenge. Art is a definite favourite; Year 7 Physical Education always has students full of energy and I would like to thank our fantastic Year 7 team for all of their work, time, effort and support for our students, ensuring a positive start to the new year.

 

The excitement and anticipation in the lead up to the swimming sports was palpable as the preparations for costumes, house meetings, and chants were underway. We congratulate and acknowledge the work of our House Leaders for generating a positive and competitive house spirit in the lead up to the day, despite not being able to gather at school in large groups. 

It was great to see so many students on the swimming sports day out having fun and participating in the different events on offer. The houses showed great colour and imagination, the fashions by the pool and house cheers were impressive and well supported by the everyone.  Without a doubt, my favourite event of the day was the Zumba session. 

 

Developing a sense of belonging is essential to our life satisfaction and mental health. School is a huge part of the lives of our young people, so we want for them to have the strongest sense of belonging and connection as members of the MGC community. Participating in whole school events in a more relaxed atmosphere where they can engage and celebrate together with their peers assists in forming positive relationships and connections. These days are often the ones that students remember for years after finishing school. Therefore, we ask for our parents and carers support in encouraging full and active participation in all whole school events for all students. The next one on the calendar is the Athletics Carnival on 6th of May.

 

In relation to the recent announcements about changes to COVID-19 restrictions, from Monday 28 February students and staff will no longer be required to wear masks at school. Masks will still be required on public transport. We also recognise that some students may wish to still wear masks and are free to do so. We thank families for their support in conducting the twice weekly Rapid Antigen Testing. We understand this is to continue into the term and we will distribute kits as they arrive. 

 

And finally, I thought I would provide a quick update on the progress of our Performing Arts building.  I am pleased to say that the building works are on schedule and at this stage, the date for completion is June.  It is a very exciting time for the College and one that I feel very privileged to be a part of.