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Edition 144 April 2022
THE WESLEY COLLEGE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Celebrating
Ready to ROAR
Our new approach
to wellbeing
Fun Home
Dean and Flora and a
unicorn of a musical
Excellence
Class of 2021 makes history
Breaking the Bias
International Women’s
Day at Wesley
A True Education
Contents Editorial
Editorial 2 Despite the ongoing COVID-related absences amongst staff and students, campus
life at Wesley College has again bloomed. From February through to April we’ve
Principal’s lines 3 been able to enjoy an unbroken 11-week Term 1, complete with normal classes,
excursions, performances, camps and sports, and even unmasked assemblies and
Features community events.
History making results for the The one and only community event we got to run last year was our International
Women’s Day celebration in early March; exactly a year later, our first full community
Class of 2021 4
gathering since restrictions were lifted has been that same event – see our coverage
Dean and Flora and a unicorn on page 10.
of a musical 6 House Activities have returned to our campuses and students have re-embraced them
with a sense of delight and urgency that can only come from the rediscovered
Ready to ROAR - pleasure of living in the moment, surrounded by others. The faces of our students tell
Our new approach to wellbeing 8 the whole story on page 18.
Breaking the Bias 10 So we’re re-establishing patterns, and in some cases, we’re forging exciting new ones.
In sport, we’ve again had a dominating summer with a premiership hat trick in three
Campus snapshots 12
sports. Both our Girls First VIII Rowing crew and our Girls First Tennis team have won
their respective APS finals two years in a row (and, in the case of our tennis girls, it’s
Archives 19
their third premiership in the past four years). Remarkably, both the Girls and Boys First
Tennis teams won the APS Premiership this year for the first time in Wesley tennis
Foundation 20
history. See their stories on pages 14 and 15. To cap it off, our Girls First Volleyball team
OWCA 28 had a phenomenal season as well, also taking out the APS premiership.
Head of St Kilda Road Campus Kim Bence introduces us to the new ROAR approach
to wellbeing across the College on page 8. Developed in response to signs of
disengagement and disconnection brought on by these disruptive times, the new
Contributors approach represents a significant change in the way we nurture wellbeing in our
Publications Manager: Cathryn Sayers community.
Editor: Paul Munn
Our cover story for this edition features our nine duces of 2021 who, despite the
Features writer: Paul Munn
depravations of the pandemic, somehow managed to achieve perfect ATARs – the
OWCA Editor: Ian Thomas (OW1982)
highest number for any school in Victoria for the year. It’s a remarkable achievement
Design and layout: www.solid.work
for an open-entry school such as ours. All nine share their stories on pages 4 and 5.
College correspondents Their successes are the headlines, but the fact is that all of our students can feel
Jacinta Janssens: Elsternwick Campus tremendously proud of their own stories of success at Wesley, academic or otherwise.
Angela Forthun: Glen Waverley Campus As Nick Evans states, ‘As a College, we are immensely proud of all students who
Paul Munn: St Kilda Road Campus achieve their best, whatever their best may be.’
Dan Lukies: Clunes
Kate Hogarth: Outdoor Education Paul Munn, Lion Editor and Features writer
Dawn Anderson: Yiramalay/Wesley
Studio School
Front cover image:
2021 COLLEGE DUCES Manage your subscription online
Front, centre: Thien Pham (IB DP)
Left to right: Olivia Khouw (IB DP), Yiguo The print edition of Lion magazine is mailed to current and prospective families,
(Cindy) Hua (VCE), Jasper Meckel (IB DP), Old Wesley Collegians and Wesley College Foundation members. Lion is also
Harper Elliott (IB DP), Sara Pisacane (IB available online at any time, at www.wesleycollege.edu.au/news-events-and-
DP), Mia Moshinsky (IB DP) publications/lion-magazine
Absent: Junbao (Stephen) Zhang (IB DP), As a subscriber to the print edition, you will continue to receive Lion magazine
Zidian (Johnson) Zheng (IB DP) in the mail unless you choose to receive only the online edition.
Old Wesley Collegians’ Association To manage your subscription, visit www.wesleycollege.edu.au/news-events-
and-publications/lion-magazine and click on ‘Manage your subscription'.
T + 61 3 8102 6750
E owca@wesleycollege.edu.au
A True Education
Wesley College Foundation
T + 61 3 8102 6385
E foundation@wesleycollege.edu.au
Admissions To find further information and news about Wesley College,
T + 61 3 8102 6508 visit our website at wesleycollege.edu.au
E admissions@wesleycollege.edu.au
Like us @WesleyCollegeMelbourne Follow us @Wesley_College
Follow us @Wesley_College_Melbourne
We acknowledge and pay respects to the Elders and Traditional Owners
ISSN: 2209-3699 / Print Post: 100018730
of the land on which our Australian campuses and Studio School stand.
2 APRIL 2022
Principal’s lines
I am, by nature, an optimist. Most people who teach are Nick Evans enjoys the Year 7 Combined
Chapel Service at Wesley Uniting Church on
optimists. It is hard for me to understand how you could Lonsdale Street with Marianne Stillwell and
Morag Howard.
teach and not be. It is a calling focused on the future
and without optimism, focusing on the future can be a
little dismaying.
Recent events have made it difficult for of a nuclear conflagration that could I am thankful for it.
optimists. The pandemic of the last two destroy the world. At the time, it was
At a recent leadership assembly at one of
years has shaken our world and made us simply a reality that I didn’t consider in
the Junior Schools of the College, a video
question verities we thought unshakeable. any profound way. I was, to be fair,
was presented entitled Take us to Your
To give but one example, I never thought quite young. I am, needless to say, not
Leaders. The concept, in essence, was
it would be impossible to travel across young anymore and the prospect of
that young alien leaders arrived at the
the country unhindered, but that is a nuclear weapons once again being
Junior School in the Leader Ship and
right I will never take for granted again. used is chilling. were ushered into the presence of the
The natural disasters of the past three Year 4 leaders of the Junior School. After
It is hard to be optimistic under such
summers indicate the very real impact of 1000 questions, the young alien leaders
circumstances.
climate change on lives and livelihoods. (who bore a remarkable resemblance to
The extraordinary bushfires of 2019 and And yet, spending time with young the Year 4 leaders, it has to be said) were
2020 have now given way to floods of people, as is my privilege, I still have asked what they had learned about
biblical proportions. Finally, in recent hope. I still have optimism. The courage leadership. The list was remarkable. It
weeks as this is written, the Russian of the Ukrainian people in the face of included but was not limited to: having
invasion of Ukraine has seen the spectre naked aggression is a source of optimism. courage, being kind, not leading just
of war once again on the continent that The dedication of those agitating for real because of a title, being respectful,
bore the brunt of World War 2. I have action on climate change is a source of being able to make mistakes, having a
taught 20th Century History for most of optimism. The genius involved in the sense of humour, being patient, being
my career as a teacher; the images creation of COVID vaccines that have helpful, setting an example, working hard,
emerging from this conflict are eerily and enabled our world to return to something being persistent, showing people the
depressingly familiar. The war in Ukraine approaching normal is a source of right thing to do, taking risks.
is, of course, on top of the humanitarian optimism. But speaking to young people
It is the most wonderful and inspiring
disaster unfolding in Afghanistan, the is what really gives me hope for the
list. Our future is in good hands, and I
conflict that continues in Syria and the future. Most remain idealistic. Most are
remain optimistic.
suffering in other parts of the globe for determined to shape their world. Most will
different reasons. not accept with blind supplication the Nick Evans (OW1985)
direction our world is going. They are not
The war in Ukraine does feel different, cynical but do have a worldliness informed
however, not least because it involves a by the fact that the world is increasingly
nuclear power. I grew up in the shadow theirs. The way the world interacts and
communicates is driven by the young.
Features
History making results for the Class of 2021
What a thrilling example of success in the face of adversity. Despite the
enormous challenges thrown their way whilst living through two years
of the pandemic, nine of our students managed to achieve the highest
possible ATAR of 99.95 – the highest number of perfect scores in
Victoria, and the highest number in Wesley history.
Our warmest congratulations go to short of remarkable,’ says Principal Nick their courage, the quality of their
Harper Elliott, Cindy Hua, Olivia Khouw, Evans. ‘I’m immensely proud, not only of relationships and the myriad of
Jasper Meckel, Mia Moshinsky, Thien our Class of 2021’s history-making results, experiences at Wesley and beyond. As a
Pham, Sara Pisacane, Stephen Zhang but also of the way they have navigated College, we are immensely proud of all
and Johnson Zheng for their their personal journeys of growth and students who achieve their best, whatever
wonderful achievement. development through two tumultuous their best may be.’
years of challenge and uncertainty.’
These achievements are just the peak of a The perfect scores of two of our
mountain of personal bests for all of our While they emphatically signal the quality International students, Stephen Zhang
Year 12 students. The combined median of teaching and learning at Wesley, for and Johnson Zheng, are particularly
ATAR across our VCE and IB DP cohorts Nick these outstanding results are only remarkable, given just a few short years
was 86.85, with 43.5% of students one part of the success story. ‘Our ago, their educational journey in English
achieving an ATAR of 90 or above – graduates are not defined simply by their began when they entered our English
extraordinary results for an open-entry ATAR scores,’ he says. ‘They have learned Language Preparation Program in
school such as ours. through their own personal journeys of Middle School.
growth and development, success and
‘The dedication, resilience and adaptability
setbacks. They are shaped by their values,
of our recent Year 12 graduates is nothing
Here our Duces reflect on how they approached their studies, and offer some advice for the Class of 2022:
Harper: I broke down study times into Cindy: I used my leisure time, as well as Olivia: In addition to my school and
small sections, only studying each subject holiday time at the start of the year, to Publications Prefect work, I had to
for a maximum of 90 minutes, making me read the textbooks and learn them by balance involvement in music, drama,
more efficient and motivated during my myself. This allowed me to have a basic sport and several clubs. Rather than pose
study times. I also consistently undertook understanding of the content before it an educational handicap, however, this
small tasks, such as using ANKI (a was actually taught in school, hence ultimately helped my time management
flashcard memorisation app) for study on reducing the upcoming workload. All the as it taught me how to better prioritise my
the tram. Planning was also very cocurriculars gave me a good balance tasks. It’s impossible to complete
important; I used Trello, an organising tool between work and life; they enabled me everything perfectly in Year 12; I found it
I found very useful. I used my teachers’ to truly relax and explore my hobbies after helpful to focus on the bigger picture
expertise so often I can only assume they a busy day of school. rather than obsess over arbitrary details.
felt badgered at times! Group study with
Her advice: Every individual is unique, so Her advice: The only life worth living is
friends was also pertinent to me.
just be yourself. It’s certainly beneficial to one that you are truly passionate about,
His advice: Trust that if the effort is put in, take advice from other individuals, but so don’t edit your own dreams according
success will follow. Many people are too most importantly, each person should to the fashion. Instead, ask yourself what
focused on chasing careers that are discover and develop their own study you hope to achieve in the long term, the
socially associated with success, not the strategies. Figure out the study methods legacy you intend on leaving behind and
ones that inspire them. that work best for you and stick to them. the change you want to effect. From then
on, every decision you make should be in
service of these goals.
4 APRIL 2022
Jasper: The key to success lies in how you Thien: I ensured that my schoolwork did Stephen: To be honest, I didn’t find
approach the future, but more so who you not consume my every minute (although managing my workload difficult during the
choose to approach it with. Always work this was difficult towards the end). I last two years. I just followed teachers’
with people who are better at their craft maintained my hobbies by playing gigs requests on time and made sure
than you are, because when you want to regularly and increased revenue in my everything was on the right track.
be the best, you only want to surround side business (I resell used bikes). The
His advice: Set your goal clearly in the
yourself with the best. Fortunately, Wesley maintenance of these cocurricular
beginning and keep striving for it. You
College provided me with an outstanding endeavours was paramount in staying
have to know what you really want, then
group of dedicated and enthusiastic peers engaged and motivated in my study. My
find the most effective and efficient way to
and educators who not only supported family played a large role in what I
achieve that.
me in my academic and social endeavours perceive as success during Year 12. They
but demonstrated an unparalleled level of were tolerable of my unsavoury moods Stephen also has some advice for future
competitiveness that always kept me on and allowed me to enjoy the year to its international students coming to
my toes. Undeniably, this was the key to fullest. At school, it was reassuring to Melbourne: ‘Wesley is one of the best
my success and, for this, I am grateful to notice the constant check-ins not only options for international students and their
have attended Wesley. by my tutor and Head of House, but families. Wesley’s diversity is unique and
also my everyday classroom teachers it’s hard to find another school that
and music teachers. embraces so many international students,
especially Asian.’
Mia: I had a wall planner so that I could Sara: My family comes from humble Johnson: I made sure I was aware of all the
consistently chart when everything was beginnings and I’m first generation due dates for assignments and planned
due. I also took advantage of digital tools Australian. I started at Wesley’s my working schedule. I would set myself
such as OneNote and set myself daily and Elsternwick Campus on a General some deadlines after dividing each task
weekly work targets that factored in the Excellence scholarship. Hard work and into several sections and work on them
need to exercise and relax. Having an effort have been instilled in me from a every day, instead of doing everything
online study group was invaluable during young age and these results are a several days before the due dates.
lockdowns. We all helped each other to reflection that determination and drive to
His advice: Academic study isn’t the only
remain motivated and connected. succeed really do pay off. No matter the
thing at school. Extracurricular activities
Knowing that our amazing teachers were difficult circumstances and struggles over
are just as important as your academic
always available to help was also critical to the past two years, I’ve never lost sight of
courses. Make sure you balance your time
keeping our morale high. my goals. I have immense gratitude for my
between them, and you are likely to obtain
teachers, the Wesley community and
Her advice: Maintain a healthy work/study something more special than grades.
family and friends who have supported
lifestyle and know that support from the
me throughout this journey.
College is there if needed. Also, be
resourceful and use OneNote!
Features
Dean and Flora and a unicorn of a musical
Wesley students taking the
performing arts world by storm is
not uncommon, with many OW’s
forging successful careers and
current students just beginning
their creative journeys. Last
month’s hugely popular
Melbourne Theatre Company
production of Fun Home
combined the two, with Dean
Bryant (OW1993) directing the hit
musical and current Year 6
student, Flora Feldman, starring
in a lead role. Paul Munn reports. Dean in rehearsal at the MTC
Dean Bryant describes the multi-Tony Flora enjoyed playing Small Alison, despite especially the influence Dawson and Tony
Award-winning Fun Home as ‘a unicorn of a all the hard work – doing three to four provided, ‘just through the sheer ambition
musical,’ perhaps the most satisfying one shows a week, including matinees and that they had for the work that could be
he’s worked on. That’s a big call, given he’s evening sessions. ‘I like that the character made at Wesley. That expanded the
had a 20-year career writing and directing of Small Alison was similar to me; we’re minds of everyone who was working on it,’
musicals, building an impressive list of both tomboys and creative and have big he says.
credits along the way. and bold personalities,’ she says. ‘We
He also counts his fellow students in the
believe in what we think is right. But I’m
What makes this show so special? performing arts programs as having a
definitely not as bossy as her!’
powerful effect on him. ‘It’s not just what
‘It’s probably the only musical I've worked
She started performing when she was Wesley offered, but who Wesley attracted.
on where it felt so efficiently and
eight, but this show was special for her as it It's the teaching you're getting, the
intelligently written that there wasn't a
was her first musical. ‘I’d never done one activities you're participating in and the
second where you didn't exactly know
before, so I had to sing, act and dance. But people you're working with. Ultimately, any
what the writer’s intent was and how to
singing is my favourite!’ she says. At Wesley, career is built out of who you're associating
play it,’ he says. ‘It's also really theatrical
Flora performs in the Year 5 and 6 Choir, with on a friendship level.’
because it's delving into memory. It’s a
plays viola with Tuesday Strings, and hopes
theatricality that you don't always find in ‘I think Wesley encourages ambition,
live theatre. But of course, it's what theatre to be in the Year 5 and 6 musical this year,
COVID permitting. passion and opens pathways.’
is meant to be.’
Dean’s first big experience in musicals Many of our students who are passionately
An adaptation of Alison Bechdel’s engaged in the performing arts and
autobiographical graphic novel, Fun Home came with the lead role of Che Guevara in
the Adamson Theatre Company production looking for those pathways agonise over
is about ‘growing up and coming out’. Its whether they should chase a career in that
success is significant in the history of the of Evita in 1993, when he came from
regional Victoria to join Wesley at the St field or do a degree first.
musical because it’s the first big-time hit
show with an all-female creative team and Kilda Road Campus for Year 12. ‘Doing Evita Dean’s advice? Do both. He pursued a Law
a lesbian protagonist. Queer audience opened my mind immediately to the scale degree for three years before fully
members have been deeply moved by of things you could do. The school was committing and going to drama school. He
this show. essentially replicating the Broadway says doing a degree is ‘a good way to get
production in Adamson Hall, and I was like, the proper university experience, knowing
‘So often, lesbian women are represented Oh God, you can do this bigger!’ that you can do the things you're really
in popular culture as the butt of the joke,
Dawson Hann, who co-directed the passionate about right from the start as an
like they're dowdy or they’re sexualised,’
production with the late Tony Scanlon, extracurricular. There's so much at any
says Dean. ‘To see themselves on stage
remembers his outstanding work in the university, performance-based or music-
realistically, authentically… it’s validating
role. ‘To my knowledge, no other school based or whatever you're interested in. It's
for them to see. But it's also welcoming for
has ever tackled this supremely difficult easier to step into both worlds. Then just
everyone, because it’s primarily about the
relationship between parents and children work. But we pulled it off thanks to the skill, focus on one.
and how difficult that relationship is.’ self-belief and fortitude of students like ‘You also meet interesting people doing
Dean,’ he says. ‘He made an impact way other things first, rather than just
The show has three actors playing the beyond his time with us. Two productions...
central role – there’s nine-year-old Alison, specifically the thing you think you might
and then the world.’ be interested in. And if you're really
19-year-old Alison and adult Alison.
Flora stars as the nine-year-old version, His work with Adamson Theatre Company passionate and you know what you want to
‘Small Alison.’ on the senior play and the musical clearly do, no one’s ever going to steer you away
had a big impact on Dean as well, from that. It's just what happens.’
6 APRIL 2022
Flora (in denim overalls) as Small Alison in Fun Home Photos by Jeff Busby
Features
Ready to ROAR –
Our new approach to wellbeing
The relentless uncertainty and continual disruption caused by the pandemic has
played havoc in the lives of many of us, especially our young people. Concern about
disengagement in learning, social disconnection and a resultant decline in mental health
has brought about a significant change in the way we nurture wellbeing at Wesley.
Kim Bence introduces our new approach.
The ROAR enables our young people to build up
knowledge and skills that are age-
events with our Wesley community this
year via our Wellbeing Parent Series.
Approach appropriate and sequential by design.
Crafting the next important chapter
Each Wesley campus has a dedicated
If you’ve picked that ROAR is an acronym, Every member of the Wesley community
Head of Student Wellbeing who is
you’d be right. Our aim is to empower our understands and appreciates the rich
supported by a network of wellbeing
students and all those within our history and long held traditions of our
teams across the campuses that consist
community to truly ROAR! great school. This also comes with the
of Homeroom Teachers, Tutors, Heads of
responsibility of writing the next
The four tenets of this approach - Year, Heads of House, Heads of School,
important chapter. Our ROAR approach
Respect, Opportunity, Achievement, and school counsellors and psychologists,
will be a pillar that has the capacity to
Resilience – are designed to help our chaplains and cocurricular staff.
transform lives in these disruptive times
young people, our staff and our families We’ve formed connections with learning by preparing our people for the
successfully navigate the world around and wellbeing partners to design and complexities of a dynamic and ever-
them. We use these tenets to deliver our deliver contemporary programs and changing landscape.
whole-of-College approach to wellbeing approaches, including the New Metrics
as they capture the very essence of a As educators walking side by side with
for Success (University of Melbourne),
Wesley education. our Wesley families, we must never lose
Science of Learning, Partner Schools
sight of the critical role we share in
Project (University of Queensland),
Respect: developing the hearts and minds of
CyberSafety Project, Breathing Space,
We nurture belonging, connection and the future.
Grow Your Mind and Bravehearts,
authentic relationships through respect Australia’s leading child
of self, others and the world in which protection agency.
we live.
Opportunity: Our Home-School partnership
We embrace opportunities to develop our We recognise that our families, no matter
strengths and talents, ignite our passions what they look like, play a vital role in the
and inspire meaning and purpose in all learning and wellbeing of our young
that we do. people. As a parent myself, I know
first-hand that wellbeing does not stop
Achievement: when our children step outside the
In pursuit of personal excellence, we classroom, and our families have a
define what is important for us, set significant role to play.
goals and harness our strengths, talents
and skills. We nurture strong moral Our ROAR approach connects at every
and intellectual character and develop level of the school, including the home
healthy habits to find meaning and context, supporting families to
purpose in our lives. understand and nurture wellbeing in their
children. Online seminars, face-to-face
Resilience: workshops and forums equip families
We have the inner strength and with the knowledge and strategies
capabilities to navigate stress and needed to help empower their children
confront uncertainty. With passion and reinforce the knowledge and
and perseverance, we recognise capabilities being nurtured at school.
challenges as opportunities for growth by These programs have included
developing personal strategies to cope specialised drug and alcohol awareness
with setbacks and bounce forward. training, coping with stress and anxiety in
The four tenets are intricately linked and children, and ‘Tuning into Teens’, as run
Kim Bence,
strategically align to an evidenced-based by our School Psychologists in 2021. We
Head of Campus, St Kilda Road
curriculum from wellbeing science. This look forward to sharing many more
8 APRIL 2022
Leading the ROAR: Meet our new Heads of Student Wellbeing
Gemma Granozio - Elsternwick Donna Davies – Glen Waverley Leonie Abbott - St Kilda Road
I’m a passionate History teacher, having I’ve been fortunate to have experienced a Starting as a secondary school teacher,
worked in independent schools in wide variety of educational settings from I’ve worked in and around education for
Adelaide, Sydney and Singapore. My P-12, residential education and at most of my career. I bring extensive
leadership journey flourished during my university level in Australia and the UK. I experience in wellbeing having consulted
time at Knox Grammar School in Sydney was previously Vice-Principal at Janet to schools most recently. It feels good to
where I was Head of the Middle Academy. Clarke Hall, University of Melbourne. I am bring the science of wellbeing to life in
I see my new role at Wesley as ensuring also undertaking part-time doctoral school settings through my Master of
we have great programs across all areas studies in The Melbourne Graduate Applied Positive Psychology.
of school life that expose our students to School of Education in the area of
Wesley has a sea of floating balloons,
opportunities that encourage them to be Respectful Relationships.
where each individual balloon is an aspect
well-rounded, healthy, happy and
We are creating programs to build of wellbeing. I am currently collecting
productive individuals.
wellbeing skills and knowledge in our these balloons to find what might be
For me, connection and purpose are most young people today for their futures. missing in the bunch. My aim then, in
important for nurturing a sense of collaboration with the other campus
My role involves meeting with staff and
wellbeing in our students. If a young Heads of Wellbeing, is to build a wellbeing
students across the campuses to design
person is connected to their community sequence for students to learn about ways
bespoke curriculum and initiatives that are
– friends, family, faith, sport or hobbies - of being well and doing well throughout
purpose-fit for our community. We have
they have a sense of purpose and their time at Wesley.
recently engaged the University of
belonging which brings a sense of
Queensland to design and investigate best What does wellbeing look like in a school?
happiness and self-worth.
practice wellbeing initiatives for each While it may sound a bit cliché, we see lots
A strong sense of wellbeing in a school campus. It’s a dream job! of smiling students! Voice is essential for
sounds like laughter from the classroom, strong wellbeing, feeling safe to raise
What does a strong sense of wellbeing
noise from the sports field and music from issues, taking a stance and of course,
look like in a school? Happy faces, joyous
the theatre… but it’s also the quiet celebrations of others are examples of
laughter, singing, dancing, clapping and
reflection. It feels like a buzzing, positive what we should be hearing. Everyone
cheering. I’m seeing it on campus already
school culture that people want to be a should feel safe, heard and seen.
as we are learning to value these simple
part of. Wellbeing has a vibrancy and energy that
acts again as important daily reminders of
is tangible. I’m discovering many elements
At Elsternwick, I have noticed a community human connection and personal agency.
of wellbeing already occurring across the
that is wholeheartedly embracing student There is a very strong sense of diversity
St Kilda Road Campus.
wellbeing as a priority! In discussions with and inclusivity at Wesley - the foundations
colleagues on my very first day, I heard the for providing a safe and vibrant space for
phrase ‘we do this because it’s the best learning and engagement.
outcome for the students.’ Hearing that
made me feel very fortunate to be at
Wesley and leading Student Wellbeing.
Stop and notice the AWEsome
Of course, wellbeing doesn’t stop at the school gate! Here Leonie shares just one
of many simple exercises we can all practise to support our own wellbeing:
When we start to notice the many wonders around us, it can activate a range of personal strengths. Last year, while quarantining,
I looked out at the blue sky and clouds and found awe in the various shapes that nature presented to me. I love stopping and
noticing AWEsome as a strategy to remind me that even when life is tough, there is always something amazing around me.
Consider something AWEsome that you have recently observed or experienced.
I hope you can refuel yourself by noticing the miniscule and the magnificent AWEsome around you!
Features
Breaking
the Bias
Last month, we welcomed
our wider community back
onto our campuses for the
first time in 12 months with a
celebration of International
Women’s Day (IWD), the day
that recognises women’s
social, economic, cultural
and political achievements
and calls for gender equality. Nicola Roxon at St Kilda Road Campus
This year’s theme - #BreakTheBias - calls Nicola is renowned and highly respected She talked about current research and
us to break the bias in our schools, for her battle with the tobacco industry treatments for diseases such as HIV/AIDS
communities and workplaces to create a to introduce the plain packaging of and Hepatitis, and her real-world
more inclusive, gender-equal world for cigarettes. Her strong advocacy experience having to navigate the HIV/
ourselves and future generations. produced a successful outcome that has AIDS epidemic in the late 1980s and early
now been adopted in 27 countries 1990s, when there was no effective
At St Kilda Road Campus, over 250 treatment and a great deal of stigma
worldwide. Nicola’s lifelong commitment
members of our community - staff, around the disease. She recounted
to women’s equality has included
alumni, families, friends and students - harrowing moments of losing patients
working on pay equity, sexual harassment
relished the opportunity to share during this period. Today, patients have a
and discrimination cases, and
breakfast in the Rose Garden before much more promising outlook, thanks to
encouraging stronger female
moving to Adamson Hall to hear from the commitment of scientists and their
representation in all walks of life. As
keynote speaker The Honourable pursuit of more effective medications
Nicola Roxon. Nicola explained, these ongoing
and treatments.
struggles cannot be waged or won by
Starting her career as an industrial lawyer, women alone, nor on just one day a year. Professor Hellard also spoke about
Nicola went on to become Labor Member Nicola recognised the importance of chance and privilege. By chance, we
for Gellibrand (1998-2013), Minister for men as partners in the quest for gender were born into a place and time where
Health and Ageing (2007-2011) and equality, clearly emphasising the vital war, famine and extreme poverty are not
Australia’s first female Attorney-General role they play in supporting women in part of our daily lives. Indeed, we were
(2011-2013). She is the current Chair of raising awareness against bias and born into a place of privilege, having
HESTA super fund and VicHealth. taking action by calling out inequality in shelter, food and most importantly,
our world. access to education. The strongest
During her time in parliament, Nicola was
message of the morning was to value
surrounded by powerful, resilient women Glen Waverley Campus welcomed education, as so many around the world
including Penny Wong and Australia’s Professor Margaret Hellard AM to speak do not have access to this privilege. Her
first female Prime Minister, Julia Gillard.
at the IWD Breakfast, with close to 100 message was clear: be curious and
Nicola shared her challenges as the first
students, parents and staff gathering in always educate yourself.
female cabinet minister with a young
the Coates Pavilion. Professor Hellard is a
child, despite there being strong female Elsternwick Campus was thrilled to
Deputy Director at the Burnet Institute,
representation in Parliament at the time. welcome Wesley College Principal, Nick
Head of Hepatitis Services in the
She recalled when her request for Evans and close to 100 parents, staff and
Infectious Diseases Unit at the Alfred
parental leave to attend her daughter’s students from our close-knit community
Hospital and an Adjunct Professor of
first day of Prep was denied by the to breakfast for a long-awaited chance to
parliamentary whip as not a ‘good Infectious Diseases Epidemiology at
catch-up and to hear from guest speaker
enough reason’ to miss parliament. Monash University and University of
Anna Kaplan, filmmaker and current
Although a senior male colleague Melbourne. Professor Hellard spoke Elsternwick parent. Anna produces social
stepped in on her behalf, and her request broadly about a career in the sciences issue documentary projects, working
was eventually granted, it was evident to being an option for all, and the many and with award-winning directors to bring
Nicola at this time that women still had a varied opportunities available for women powerful stories to the screen. Her
long way to go. with an interest in science.
10 APRIL 2022credits include the critically acclaimed
That Sugar Film, 2040 and the soon-to-
be-released Regenerate Australia.
Anna’s passion is screen-based
storytelling that informs, inspires and
activates audiences. She spoke about the
power of voice and the impact an
individual can have by using their voice
to initiate change, no matter how difficult
the situation. Her honest reflection about
the challenges she faced in developing
and finding her own voice resonated
strongly with her audience. This was a
powerful and timely message, given the
College’s strategic priority around
student agency. She also spoke about
the women who have inspired her
throughout the years and the impact
they’ve had on her.
Anna Kaplan speaks to students after her presentation at Elsternwick Campus
Her final message to our students was
simple: ‘Make the most of the many,
many opportunities that you are so
fortunate to have as part of a Wesley
College experience’.
Guests enjoy breakfast in the Ding Family
courtyard at the Elsternwick Campus
Professor Margaret Hellard AM addresses guests at the Glen Waverley Campus breakfast
(Left to right): Head of Glen Waverley Campus Sheridan Vella, Guest Speaker Prof. Margaret Guests enjoy breakfast in the Rose Garden at
Hellard AM, Head of Senior School Jill Caple and Year 12 Prefects the St Kilda Road CampusCampus snapshots
A true education – 25 years at Wesley
College for the Nicholls family
Our journey to Wesley began in 1995, punctuated by early mornings, late
with an introductory interview in a tiny nights and so many busy weekends.
office with Ms Kim Anderson. There was
I am infinitely proud of my kids, but
no St Kilda Road Junior School, but there
the thing that I most admire is not
was an architectural model. Kim
their individual achievements, but
Anderson was the reason that we
their collective care for each other. All
chose Wesley.
four learnt in the Hutch, ‘Let there be An unexpected
arrival
What we learned in that initial meeting peace on Earth and let it begin with
was this was a school that focused on the me,’ and it remains a family
child. A place where every child would be touchpoint often said and referenced
encouraged to find things that bring when needed. At a big, restless school like ours,
them joy and a place where they would we’re often landed with the
For me, this has been demonstrated
be challenged.
repeatedly over the past two unexpected, but on a still,
All four Nicholls offspring, Zebedee challenging years; the independent beautiful morning in late
(OW2011), Caspian (OW2016), Ainsley learning skills and strategies that they February, St Kilda Road Campus
(OW2019) and Denzill (OW2021) attended developed at Wesley have helped our had an unexpected arrival that
Wesley at St Kilda Road full-time from family to navigate the trickiest of was literally out of the blue.
3-year-old Hutch to Year 12. In the Hutch, times.
they learned that asking great questions Jac Davenport from Year 6 was minding his
My lasting thoughts on Wesley would own business doing his before-school
matters, that their ideas were important
be that you can get there from here basketball training when he looked up to
and valuable and that you should grab
– whether it is to Oxford to study see a very large hot air balloon, low in the
every opportunity to learn and explore
Physics and a PHD in climate sky and coming his way.
your world with confidence and
modelling like Zebedee, or ANU
determination. ‘It was coming down, and I thought it was
Physics for Caspian, Melbourne
Twenty five years later, all four have been University Mathematics for Ainsley going to hit the flagpole,’ he said. ‘But then
lucky enough to make the most of many and now Vet Science for Denzill. it went past it and all of a sudden, it landed!’
opportunities at Wesley: whether in the Head of Campus, Kim Bence, was just
The opportunities, the challenges, the
classroom, the music school, on the getting her day started when the
successes and the joy of being a
sporting field, Adamson Theatre unanticipated visitors arrived just before
member of the Wesley community will
Company, debating or in leadership eight o’clock. ‘I was greeted by this rather
be with our family forever.
positions. None of this was easy or large balloon coming past my window, just
effortless. All four have worked hard, missing our wonderful lions in the Rose
Cressida Crossley
practised and practised and shown the Garden and landing quite beautifully and
Wesley Parent 1997-2021
determination to succeed that frankly, most spectacularly on our front turf,’
often left me exhausted. Every week was she said.
‘I was in panic mode trying to ensure it
didn’t land on children or cars or anyone
was injured, and I know that dear Graham
(Sullivan) was very worried about that
flame burning his beautiful front turf, but
all was well.’
‘The entire event was completely surreal,’
said Kim. ‘I walked towards the balloon and
was faced with a group of eight balloonists
staring at me from inside the basket. My
first words were ‘Good morning, welcome
to Wesley’. The people in the basket
laughed. What else could I say?’
Tradition has it that an unexpected arrival
by hot air balloon in the fields in France
requires the gift of champagne to the
landowner. ‘We are now the recipients of a
lovely bottle of French champagne,’ said
All grown up and posing for the last Nicholls family Christmas card sent annually as a thank Kim. ‘Unfortunately, it will not go far with a
you to their teachers are (L-R) Zebedee, Ainsley, Denzill and Caspian staff of 300 plus.’
12 APRIL 2022Girls win back-to-back Head of the River Regattas
When Term 4 started and they were
able to get back on the water, they
completed nine training sessions a week,
clocking up somewhere close to 18 hours
in total. Training ran from October
through to the running of the Head of the
River in late March.
‘The feeling a rower receives when they
cross that finish line is indescribable, but
the feeling of crossing the Head of River
finish line tops it all,’ said an elated Lucy
Thomson. ‘All the hours of training,
blood, sweat and tears flashes before
your eyes. The best part is that eight
The Girls First VIII celebrate another historic win. others did it right beside you.’
Our girls have done it again! Following a Wesley’s Head of Rowing, Matt Ryan, ‘The strength that we showed throughout
drought-breaking win in 2021, the Girls summed up the incredible result: ‘It was the race was a tribute to our hard work
First VIII Rowing crew has once again such an amazing row by the crew and a and perseverance over the season,’
won the Head of the River Regatta at great reward for all their hours of added Fiona Dow. ‘I couldn’t be prouder
Lake Nagambie. sacrifice and dedication. They have been of our crew and the result we achieved,
a fantastic group to work with. We are as well as the legacy we have worked to
This is only the third time in APS rowing create.’
incredibly proud of what they have
history that we have won this prestigious achieved and grateful for all they have
event. A huge congratulations to our While the summer season has come to a
done for the program.’
rowers, four of whom were part of last close, we are excited for the year ahead
year’s winning crew: Lauren Keneally, Results like this don’t just happen. The with four returning crew members
Caitlin Woods, Maddie Marquet-Walker, girls started training online at the start of vowing to give it everything they’ve got
Lauren Mayhood, Kessem Shahak, Thea Term 3 last year when Melbourne was still again next year. Could they go back-to-
Coull, Lucy Thomson, Saskia Blackburn, in lockdown. They were given a rowing back-to-back? We can only dare
Fiona Dow and their dedicated coach, machine to use at home and completed to dream!
David Webster. six sessions a week on the rowers as well
as body weight circuits.
Safe, happy and secure at school
Our student community represents a reflected that ‘the workshop helped Ultimately, the way everyone behaves
snapshot of our wider society in their staff explore LGBTQIA2+ identities and towards each other supports the
diversity, and we are richer for that. Here the barriers students face in everyday wellbeing and safety of the whole
are just a few ways our school experience life and empowered staff with practical community, helping us all become the
at Glen Waverley campus is deepened by tools to become inclusive leaders. It best version of ourselves.
celebrating this diversity. also provided a common practical
approach to help support LGBTQIA2+
■ We recognise and celebrate the rich
students and staff in the classroom and
and diverse cultural and religious
throughout the whole school.’
traditions of our student community.
Championed by the International ■ The Kaleidoscope group meets
Relations group in Senior School and regularly to build connections and
embedded into the gatherings for organise projects to ensure Wesley
Junior and Middle Schools, our remains a safe space for LGBTQIA2+
students. It helps Middle and Senior
students share their voice and we
School students and staff get
support them to lead and shape our
together and participate in activities
school community.
and workshops.
■ Recognising the importance of
■ Led by Head of Student Wellbeing,
acknowledging the individuality of all
Donna Davies, tutorial group sessions
students at Wesley, over 80 staff
have enabled students to unpack the
attended an online workshop
new Student Behaviour Management
presented by Minus18 called ‘Creating
policy, aimed at ensuring everyone
LGBTQIA2+ inclusive classrooms.’ Mark
feels safe, happy and secure at school.
Frater, Head of Faculty, Physical &
Health Education at Glen Waverley,Campus snapshots
From near and far to LiR
Learning in Residence (LiR) is now a activities, pottery workshops, magic community,’ she says. ‘The tennis
well-established piece of the Glen shows, an Amazing Race around the program Wesley offers was one of the
Waverley campus jigsaw, and new CBD, movie nights, ice skating, karaoke, main reasons I chose to move away from
Deputy Head of LiR, Alexandra a learn to drive program and go-karting.’ home. Not only has it given me the
Thompson, is thrilled to be part of it. opportunity to make new friends and
She’s enjoying getting to know the
‘Throughout my years of teaching at connections, but I feel as if my entire
varied group of students, 20 of whom
Wesley College, I have always known the game has changed for the better. One
are new to Wesley this year. ‘Our
LiR to be a positive, progressive and of the perks of living on campus is that
student cohort comprises a diverse
inclusive environment,’ she says. you have everything you need where
range of cultures and backgrounds,
you are. I find that I have more time to
One of the key benefits that comes with originating from Victoria, interstate and
balance everything; school, sport and
residential learning at Wesley is the overseas,’ she says.
friends, while still having plenty of
Residential Curriculum program, which
Let’s meet two of them… downtime.’
provides opportunities for students to
develop their whole self, encourages Jethro Shum comes from Hong Kong
student leadership, and best of all, helps and moved to Wesley to further his
make lifelong friendships. ‘Our students studies. ‘My family enrolled me into the
enthusiastically engage in the extensive LiR as they wanted me to develop my
program,’ says Alexandra. ‘The popular independence and academic
after school and weekend activities achievements,’ he says. ‘I am grateful
include fitness classes, wellbeing for the experiences that LiR affords me
and when I look back at my schooling, I
know this is something I will always
remember and cherish.’
Brooke Marshall is from Traralgon,
Gippsland. ‘LiR welcomed me with open
arms as did the Wesley College tennis From Victoria, interstate and overseas:
Learning in Residence 2022
Wesley tennis makes history
Community Dinner face painting competition
L-R Julie Atkins (Mentor), Lara Rees, Cunzhen Wesley tennis made history this month with Andrews and Vice-Captain Aaron
Yang (Mentor), Wes Vogels, Luka Simic both the Girls and Boys First Tennis teams Moonsammy. We thank both captains for
winning the APS Sport Premierships their tremendous leadership. We also
simultaneously for the first time. congratulate Sienna Opray, Madeleine
Wilson, Brooke Marshall, Nico Tremblay and
The Girls First team were outstanding,
Ben Van Twest on being selected for the
remaining undefeated all season. On four
APS Representative teams.
occasions, they thrashed their opposition
16 sets to zero. This is the third Premiership Reflecting on their win, captain of the Girls
the team has won in the past four seasons. First team, Rhiana Karabasis, commented:
We are extremely proud of this talented, ‘The girls have not only shown commitment
passionate and hardworking group who to the sport but an outstanding attitude
strive to bring out the best in each other toward their peers and coaches this
Getting creative in the pottery workshop: every time they step onto the court. season. I can confidently say that we gave
Mia Chabaud (L) and Isabelle Shoebridge our all at every training session, regardless
The Boys First team also had a remarkable
season, winning the Premiership for the of the stresses and challenges presented in
first time since 2006. When it counted and everyday life. I would like to thank our
under immense pressure, the boys played wonderful coaches for their endless
their best tennis, defeating Scotch College support and wisdom.’
and then Haileybury in the final round, ‘Tennis may be an individual sport but
winning 12 sets to four. The culture
playing tennis for Wesley is definitely a
amongst the team has never been stronger,
team effort and winning the title means a
with all 12 boys in the squad attending
lot,’ said Oliver Andrews, Boys First Captain.
every single match, regardless of whether
‘The boys should be extremely proud of
they were scheduled to play or not.
what we have managed to achieve this
The Girls team was led by Captain Rhiana season and the strong culture we are
L-R Coby Burgiel, Will Sands-Morris and Nico building around Wesley tennis.'
Karabasis and Vice-Captain Sienna Opray.
Tremblay having some ice skating fun
The Boys team was led by Captain Oliver
14 APRIL 2022Building trusting (LiR) opened at the beginning of 2017 and
I joined the team as a residential mentor.
organisations including Bunuba
Dawangarri Aboriginal Corporation,
relationships with Being part of the LiR team was a huge
learning experience for me and I
RNTBC and the Marra Worra Worra
Aboriginal Corporation are actively
communities appreciate having the chance to supporting and promoting the school.
work there.
It has been so great in this job and I’m
This year, I’m back at Yiramalay, working really enjoying it here. Going back to
Our Community Engagement Officer at as the Community Engagement Officer. Yiramalay was like going back home. I
Yiramalay is Stanley Shaw Marr, a Bunuba My role involves building trusting don’t even worry about going into town
and Kija man from Fitzroy Crossing in relationships with families within the most weekends, I prefer to just chill here
Western Australia. Here he shares his part communities that our students come at Yiramalay.
in the school’s story. from, listening to their needs, and
interviewing prospective students and
I can remember hearing about the
their families to see if we are a good fit
Yiramalay/Wesley Studio School in 2010
for them. Being a local works to my
from family members. ‘You know, you
advantage; I know the community and
should probably come out to the school
elders around the Valley and have family
and have a look; you would be a good
and friends across the Kimberley.
role model for young people there.’ I
Working as a mentor over many years
would ask questions about it, only to be
means I am also well known to students
told that I would have to come out there
and families from many Northern Territory
and experience it for myself. The
communities.
Executive Director would bump into me
at the IGA in Fitzroy Crossing and When I go into town, everyone asks
humbug me about working at the school, questions about how to enrol to get into
and in 2014 I just thought ‘You know, why Yiramalay. The biggest challenges of the
not? I’ll give it a go,’ and that’s how I role are getting students set up with
started working at Yiramalay. Abstudy; families find it challenging to
get this done and that’s where I support
In 2015 I moved to Melbourne and
them. We are doing significant marketing
mentored the Indigenous boys in houses
across the Kimberley, and more Yiramalay’s Stanley Shaw Marr
in Glen Waverley. Learning in Residence
2022 APS Boys First Tennis Premiers 2022 APS Girls First Tennis Premiers
Our dual Premiership wins are the result of accomplishment and a momentous occasion Congratulations to all of the students,
years of hard work by all of the students and in the history of Wesley Tennis,’ said Tennis parents, coaches and everyone who
coaches involved. Wesley tennis has been Head Coach, Lauren Breadmore (OW2001). contributed to this significant achievement
fortunate to receive professional coaching ‘I am especially proud of this dual in the history of Wesley tennis. We look
over the past five years through their Premiership achievement given I am a forward to seeing you back on the court
partnership with XSOAR Perform. Wesley First Alumna and captained the next season!
Girls First Tennis team during my time
‘Winning both the APS Girls and Boys First at the College.’
Premierships is a truly remarkableCampus snapshots
How do we know
our students are
Open Classrooms
learning? at Elsternwick
From our Early Childhood Learning
Centre through to Year 9, the focus of
teaching and learning at Elsternwick
Campus remains the same, improving
student outcomes through effective
pedagogy.
From innovative units of inquiry to
embedding empirically supported
strategies into lesson planning, the
commitment to improving student
achievement is clear. But how do we
know that our students are learning?
Data-informed practice provides a vital
link to answering this question.
Across the campus, teaching staff are
collaborating regularly to reflect on,
share and develop means of collecting
An opportunity to observe: Nick Pensa working with Year 7 Art student, Arlo Pangu
student data. Learning can be evidenced
through students’ written work samples, Elsternwick Campus has welcomed many new staff through its doors this year.
contributions in class, or development While much information is delivered through the Induction Program and the Mentor
of Approaches to Learning (ATLs) to Program, something harder to convey is the unique classroom culture at Elsternwick.
name a few.
The Open Classroom days were one way in which we have strived to share the
In addition to these sources of evidence innovative and engaging teaching and learning happening daily in our classrooms.
are the newly collated analytics for During these days, staff welcomed their colleagues into their classrooms to witness
teaching and learning - a database of authentic teaching practices and share their classroom vibe.
student growth throughout their time at
the College. In partnership with Dr Tim The observations during Open Classroom days were guided by Appreciative Inquiry,
O’Leary of Education Data Talks, staff are a strengths-based, positive approach to development. The process was not about
being supported to make the most of this reviewing or judging the classes being observed, but rather highlighting the strengths
new and detailed information to enhance of each experience and reflecting on one’s own practice.
our students’ growth. This opportunity had the added benefit of modelling to our students the importance
of sharing ideas and knowledge in the pursuit of continuous growth.
Year 9 Design students sharing their
understanding of design specifications Courtney Hollis with Year 6 students Rupert Ockleshaw (L) and Adam Corral in
Food Technology
16 APRIL 2022STEM programs not only instil students
with knowledge in each of the four
disciplines, but the transdisciplinary
nature of the International Baccalaureate
Primary Years and Middle Years Programs
encourages students to draw
connections and apply what they are
learning across subject areas. A
significant part of STEM is developing
student's soft skills in problem-solving,
agile working, creativity, critical thinking
and collaboration, which are crucial in
preparing students to thrive in a fast-
paced world of change.
STEM talks: Emma and Frank Arrigo from AWS with Year 9 Elsternwick Campus students
Student Jackson Valentic says the talk
STEM Leaders Jason Leong from NBN and Frank and
Emma Arrigo from AWS (Amazon Web
was ‘reassuring in showing that you don’t
have to choose a career path straight
of tomorrow Services) shared their personal stories
with students, talking about the many
away. You can make your own path and
find something that you enjoy and are
different types of STEM roles they interested in.’ His classmate, Noah Pangu,
Last month, Year 9 Design and considered, how they navigated their way agrees, saying, ‘It was helpful to
Technology students from Elsternwick into the industry and the support they understand that you don’t need to know
Campus attended the NBN-AWS STEM had as they started their careers. what you want to do for your career, and
Career Day to hear from some real-life that as long as you follow what you want
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering
role models and learn how they can forge to do, you will succeed.’
and Mathematics) is an increasingly
a career in STEM. The virtual event important part of our College life and a With new role models for inspiration,
centred around the theme ‘Be Creative, crucial way to set our students up for and so much fun on the cards in the
Be Entrepreneurial, Be Authentic and success beyond our walls. classroom, we hope to see the STEM
Be Brave’. leaders of tomorrow emerging from the
Elsternwick Campus. Stay tuned!
Wesley at Clunes
transforms
As Wesley at Clunes rolls into its 22nd year
of operation, perhaps the biggest period
of change and development in its history is
beginning to take shape. Marked by the
development of new educational and
student residential facilities, the Clunes
Redevelopment Project is due for
completion in late May. This striking
development, designed by William Boags
Architecture, stays true to the original
design of the Clunes campus, while
respecting the heritage of Clunes and our
Wesley at Clunes program.
As the glass, steel and timber of these new
buildings take shape, so too does the The redevelopment project taking shape
creation and adaptation of the Clunes
studios that will allow students to further solutions in the state-of-the-art facilities
curriculum to make the most of these
explore their creativity and practical being built.
amazing facilities and support the IB
problem-solving skills. Students will use
Middle Years Program. Staff from Clunes While the learning opportunities at Clunes
these facilities throughout the regular
and across all Wesley campuses have continue to grow through the development
curriculum at Clunes while also being able
worked collaboratively with internationally of the buildings and curriculum, the heart
to utilise the equipment and facilities to
renowned educational specialist, Thom and essence of Clunes remains: giving
design, create and implement their
Markham, to create and implement students the experience of independence
Community Projects, a major piece of
Languages, Mathematics and the and ‘learning to live with’ while immersing
curriculum design that will see students
Community Project into the Wesley at themselves in a strong rural community.
work in groups to improve communities
Clunes curriculum.
that they identify with. They will take the We look forward to officially opening and
Included in the development project are central importance of ‘Community’ to the sharing the Clunes redevelopment with
purpose-built design, technology and art action stage, making and creating real you all in the second half of 2022.You can also read
