INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...

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INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
INFORMATION
EXCHANGE
SUMMER 2017/2018

              THE ARTEMIS EDITION
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
CHAIRMAN                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              FROM
OF COUNCIL                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    THE PRINCIPAL

2017 has been a momentous year for Melbourne Girls Grammar and we should all feel a sense of excitement and                                                   2017 has been a big, bold, brave year for Melbourne Girls Grammar.
pride now that the Artemis Centre is complete and humming with activity. We were recently honoured to have                                                    At the centre of all we have aimed to achieve is our commitment to the
Artemis opened by Her Excellency the Honourable Linda Dessau, Governor of Victoria and to have a blessing                                                     holistic development of every girl.
bestowed by our Archbishop, The Most Reverend Dr Philip Freier.
                                                                                                                                                                    We aim to educate the hearts and minds of      encouraged to embrace teamwork, to celebrate
     I know the Council has an enormous debt        the pressures of the fast-paced world of the 21st     a thoughtful and caring way; that they join         our students, prizing an education of substance.     the victory of the group, to acknowledge
of gratitude to the many people who have            century.                                              our greater community, when they leave              We encourage our girls to think larger than their    other’s contributions to their lives, to be open
made this building possible: the architects and                                                           the red bricks, as ethical women of action.         own lives, to understand and act on the belief       to diverse points of view. I often remind the
                                                       On a deeper level, this building signifies so
builders (BVM and Kane respectively), our                                                                 These values have been the linchpin of our          that through service to others they will discover    girls that taking a moment to greet each other
                                                    much more than health and wellbeing.
Principal, Catherine Misson and her team, the                                                             school’s educational intent since our school        who they truly are and extend that of which they     can ease the way for conversations, can be
                                                          This building - built by women for women                                                            are capable. Our values anchor community             the warmth that lifts the heart. The power to
staff, parents, students and Old Grammarians                                                              doors opened 124 years ago. These values
                                                    - reflects the broader societal seismic shifts that                                                       life for our girls, and we speak openly and          acknowledge, support and celebrate others
who have contributed ideas and donations                                                                  are embodied in the thousands of Old
                                                    are taking place in our world. Changes that                                                               often of being a respectful, kind and inclusive      makes the human experience far richer.
and a willingness to make this project happen                                                             Grammarians who continue to contribute in
                                                    mean women are taking their place as equal                                                                sisterhood within our red brick walls.
through the inevitable ups and downs of any                                                               a myriad of ways to make the world a better                                                                  There is so much to say thank you for in
                                                    partners not just in sharing the world but in
significant journey. Our school community’s                                                               place.                                                   In 1893 when the doors of Melbourne             2017.
                                                    shaping the world that we live in. This building
generosity and willingness to work together is                                                                I know that this building will drive            Girls Grammar opened to the first 9 students,
                                                    is a statement in the journey towards that
one of the reasons it is such a joy to be serving                                                         generations of prowess and achievement in the       the world was very different to 2017. Australia
                                                    tremendous goal.                                                                                                                                                   Thank you for the strength of our
on our school’s Council.                                                                                  years to come – but equally it will help ensure     was an infant nation, finding its voice in the
                                                         But while enjoying the newness and                                                                                                                            community: we rally together, we stand
                                                                                                          that our girls are grounded and caring in their     twilight of empire years, and women were yet
                                                    wonder of our new facility and our new                                                                                                                             strong in our values, we work hard and
                                                                                                          approach to life. Most importantly, we wish for     to have careers or cast a vote. The aspiration of
       It is extremely apt that our building is     educational programs I am reminded that with                                                                                                                       have fun.
                                                                                                          our graduates not to just strive but also to give   an education under the tutelage of Miss Emily
       named after Artemis the Greek Goddess,       privilege comes responsibility. As a school                                                                                                                        Thank you for the growing footprint
                                                                                                          back. It has been a real privilege to be witness    Hensley and Miss Alice Taylor was to be “as well
       who amongst many other attributes was        of the Anglican faith it is important to reflect                                                                                                                   of Melbourne Girls Grammar: the
                                                                                                          to our school’s exciting next chapter.              educated as boys”. 124 years ago that mission
       the protector of young girls.                that we have a responsibility to help those less                                                                                                                   Artemis Centre provides us many
                                                                                                                                                              was a galvanizing idea.
                                                    fortunate than ourselves.                                 Our school is alive with potential.                                                                      new environments and extends our
                                                                                                                                                                   In today’s world, we must enlarge the scope
    Linked to an innovative educational                  Collectively our students understand                     Professor Katie Allen (Stephens 1983)                                                                opportunities.
                                                                                                                                                              of that mission. An exceptional education is
program of health, well-being and resilience        that they have a responsibility to share the                                  Chairman of Council                                                                  Thank you for our spirit of innovation: we
                                                                                                                                                              a global one, extending well beyond the core
building, the values of the Artemis Centre are      gift of an excellent education; to ensure that                                                            academics to encompass the development of                leverage our leadership and creativity to
more pressing now than ever as we recognise         they contribute to the world they live in in                                                              cultural capability, digital agility, and critical       remain true to our aspiration to provide
                                                                                                                                                              thinking. An exceptional education empowers              an exceptional education for our students.
                                                                                                                                                              our girls to venture fearlessly forth in their
                                                                                                                                                              world.                                                    In our 124th year Melbourne Girls
                                                                                                                                                                   Yesterday, today and tomorrow, we start         Grammar is in a flourishing period of
            2    Chairman of Council                19 Inauguration of the                                INFORMATION EXCHANGE
CONTENTS

                                                                                                                                                              and finish with our girls in mind. This mantra       development. I acknowledge and celebrate
                                                       2018 Student Executive Council                     Editorial Co-ordinator: Ashleigh Day                reminds us to always return to the cultivation       the commitment and courage of our entire
            3    From the Principal                                                                       Community Office                                    of the whole person. If our girls understand         community: together we bring our vision to
                                                    20 Art Exhibition                                     Email: ashleigh.day@mggs.vic.edu.au                 that self-awareness and self-care are essential      fruition.
            4    Artemis Centre Opening
                                                                                                          Published by: Melbourne Girls Grammar               to both their wellbeing and their future
                                                    21 Centre for Educational Enterprise                                                                                                                           Almighty God,
            6    The Fitness Hub                                                                          86 Anderson Street, South Yarra 3141                achievements, they will strive to become well-
                                                                                                          Victoria, Australia                                                                                      In whom we live and move and have our being:
                                                    22 Archives                                                                                               rounded, independent, resilient women ready
            8    Early Learning                                                                           For the latest Melbourne Girls Grammar News,        to take advantage of the fullest quantum of life’s   Make this school as a field which the Lord has            Alessi D'Andrea was awarded this year’s
                                                    23 Merton Hall Rowing Club                            please visit: www.mggs.vic.edu.au                   opportunities.                                       blessed;                                                  Principal’s Acquisition Art Award for
            10 Junior Years                                                                                                                                                                                        That whatsoever things are true, pure, lovely and         her Visual Communication and Design
                                                                                                                                                                  There is one other fundamental
                                                    24 Parents Association                                                                                                                                         of good report,                                           work ‘Pianta’. This fictitious business
            12 Middle Years                                                                                                                                   understanding in our 2017 version of an
                                                    26 Philanthropy                                                                                           exceptional education. In this human time            May here forever flourish and abound.                     constructed by Alessi presented playful
            14 Senior Years                                                                                                                                   of accelerated innovation and exponential                                                                      scientifically inspired designs of flora
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Catherine Misson
                                                    34 Old Grammarians Society                                                                                data, no one can succeed alone – our girls are                                                                 and fauna. The cohesive body of work
            17   Boarding                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Principal
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             explored vibrant colour and organic
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             patterns which together created a feminine
            18 ELC Father’s Day Breakfasts
                                                                                                                                                              FRONT COVER                                                                                                    aesthetic of beauty and delight.
                                                                                                                                                              Students' first swim in The Gourlay Pool in Artemis: Laura Hodge (Year 12 Swim Captain), Sophia
                                                                                                                                                              Beaumont (Year 7), Sophie Hodge (Year 9), Lily Wertheimer (Year 7), and Jessica Swan (Year 7)
 2 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                                                                                                                                                                                               MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017          3
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
RIGHT: James Kelly, Distinguished OG Ms Kitty
                                                                                                                  Chiller, Principal Mrs Catherine Misson, Mr Howard,
                                                                                                                     Her Excellency, the Honourable Linda Dessau AC,
                                                                                                                  Governor of Victoria, Archbishop of Melbourne, The
                                                                                                                  Most Reverend Dr Philip Freier, Professor Katie Allen

Artemis Centre Opening
BUILT BY WOMEN FOR WOMEN

The Commissioning of the Artemis
                                                                                                                                                                                The values embodied by the Artemis
Centre on Friday 1 September 2017                             Artemis is a message to the world.
                                                                                                                                                                          Centre are more pressing now than ever.
was a wonderful and historic event.                      Melbourne Girls Grammar girls are
                                                                                                                                                                          We all know the harm that unhealthy
                                                         strong in mind, strong in body, and they
                                                                                                                                                                          lifestyles and rising rates of poor mental
     Her Excellency, the Honourable Linda                are courageous in their hearts. Artemis is
                                                                                                                                                                          health can have on our families and our
Dessau AC, Governor of Victoria, spoke about             a message that echoes from our past and
                                                                                                                                                                          broader community. Any attempt to reverse
the importance of girls being educated so as to          projects well into our future. The school
                                                                                                                                                                          that trend is one worth pursuing. I know
be confident and aspire for gender parity in the         was established with the aspiration that
                                                                                                                                                                          that this building will drive generations of
workplace and in life generally.                         girls would have an education equal
                                                                                                                                                                          prowess and achievement in the years to
    She commended Melbourne Girls                        to that of boys. Today, Artemis is an
                                                                                                                                                                          come – but equally it will help ensure that
Grammar for our vision in developing leading             inspiration for that mission. Who knows
                                                                                                                                                                          our girls are grounded in their approach
programs for girls. Distinguished OG, Ms Kitty           how tomorrow’s dreams at Melbourne
                                                                                                                                                                          to life.
Chiller, took up this theme by reflecting on             Girls Grammar may come to fruition?
                                                                                                                                                                          Professor Katie Allen (Stephens 1983),                To the students of Melbourne Girls
the central role of resilience in her life and for             Ms Catherine Misson, Principal                                                                                                                              Grammar. The underpinning attribute
                                                                                                                                                                                           Chairman of Council
young people to navigate their own challenges.                                                                                                                                                                             for holistic well-being is resilience.
     Archbishop of Melbourne, The Most               1                                                                                                                                                                     Resilience in a physical, emotional and
Reverend Dr Philip Freier, walked the four                                                                                                                                                                                 psychological sense. Life is not easy and
corners of the Artemis Centre and duly blessed                                                                                                                                                                             many times it’s not fair. Acknowledge
this most incredible new facility, that extends                                                                                                                                                                            that, prepare yourself for it by taking
our experience of community and provides                                                                                                                                                                                   advantage of environments such as
us expansive possibilities for wellbeing                                                                                                                                                                                   this magnificent Centre. Build up your
provisions.                                                                                                                                                                                                                arsenal of building blocks so that when
                                                                                                                                                                                                                           challenges do come your way – you
1. Principal Catherine Misson, David Misson, Polly                                                                                                                                                                         can face them without fear and with a
   Winterton and Tania Brougham                                                                           2
2. School Chaplain Denise Nicholls and The Most
                                                                                                                                                                                                                           resilience that will enable you to do your
   Reverend Dr Philip Freier                                                                                                                                                                                               very best. And at the end of the day that
3. Old Grammarians Committee Members on bridge                                                                                                                                                                             is all that can be asked of you. Win, lose
4. Honourable Linda Dessau, Governor of Victoria                                                                                                                                                                           or draw – all that matters is that you have
5. Ms Kitty Chiller, Old Grammarian                                                                                                                                                                                        prepared and performed as best you can.
                                                                                                                   I have enjoyed watching this Centre
                                                                                                      4                                                                                                                                    Ms Kitty Chiller (1981)
                                                                                                              grow out of the ground, particularly
3                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Attended 5 Olympic Games as an
                                                                                                              knowing what it will give to the students.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                            athlete and a coach. First ever female
                                                                                                              I am enthusiastic about education for all
                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Chef de Mission of the Australian
                                                                                                              young people…but until the day of gender
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Olympic Team (Rio 2016).
                                                                                                              parity, the education of young women
                                                                                                              is something that, as a community, we
                                                                                                              must ensure is specifically nurtured and
                                                                                                              resourced. Artemis combines all facets of
                                                                                                              wellbeing - mental, social and physical
                                                                                                              – to ensure that MGGS girls shall leave
                                                                                                              their schooling years armed not only with
                                                                                                              substantive educational achievements,
                                                                                                              but with the confidence to know and
                                                                                                      5       look after themselves (and others), to
                                                                                                              appreciate and work with diversity, to
                                                                                                              collaborate with others, and to show
                                                                                                              resilience in the face of the inevitable life
                                                                                                              obstacles that crop up from time to time.
                                                                                                                      Honourable Linda Dessau AC,
                                                                                                                             Governor of Victoria

4 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                                                                                                                                                  MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017           5
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
THE FITNESS HUB
STRONG IS THE NEW PRETTY
                                                                                                                                                  #strongisthenewpretty
The most frequently heard comment from girls, staff and visitors to the Artemis Centre when they enter the building
for the first time is “wow!” It’s the feeling I experience every day as I walk through the doors. As the activity levels
                                                                                                                                                                                     MEET OUR
increase and the breadth of programs grow, there is a hum of energy that is both inspiring and comforting.                                                                           FITNESS COACHES
    One particular space that has captured                       for most of us, the mind-body connection is                   et al.) investigating the effectiveness of exercise   Our Fitness Coaches are qualified
the girls’ interests is the Fitness Hub. When                    inextricably linked.                                          interventions to prevent sports injuries found
                                                                                                                                                                                     exercise physiologists (ESSA) and
we first opened the doors to this room in                             I’d like to talk about “strength” in a                   that strength training reduced sports injuries to
early Term 3, there could have been no better                                                                                  less than one third and overuse injuries could        strength and conditioning coaches,
                                                                 very physical sense, because our muscular
feedback than the sheer delight evident on                       strength is not something we should take                      be almost halved.                                     and play a pivotal role in working with
the girls’ faces combined with their positive                    for granted. It’s critical for survival. Age-                      It’s an exciting time for girls and young        the girls to develop their individual
comments and excitement… “Awesome – we                           related degenerative processes of sarcopenia,                 women in sport and activity. More than ever,          physical wellbeing plans.                                                                 ABOVE: Artemis Fitness Coaches Kirsten Horne, Daniel Jones and Sarah Bates
have a gym!”                                                     osteopenia, metabolic slowdown and fat gain                   there is a tangible push for opportunity and
     The Fitness Hub has been equipped                           (Galvao et al, 2005) lead to losses in strength               a groundswell of support for equality and to
with commercial grade free weights, lifting                      and power, sensory functions and balance                      simply have a go. The uptake of females in
                                                                                                                                                                                     Daniel Jones                                       Sarah Bates                                             Kirsten Horne
platforms, CrossFit-style rigs, multi-station                    (increasing risk of falls), psychological factors             sports like cricket, AFL, netball and soccer               Daniel’s passion for exercise is contagious       Sarah has a Bachelor’s of Exercise and                  Kirsty grew up on the Mornington
jungle gym, indoor cycling spin bikes and a                      (relating to self-confidence and independence)                is testament to this. It’s our responsibility to      and is underpinned by his belief in the            Sports Science and a Postgraduate Master’s              Peninsula with a very active upbringing that
range of supplementary training tools and                        and health conditions (associated with various                ensure that our girls are physically prepared         important role exercise plays in promoting         of Clinical Exercise Physiology. In addition,           saw her get involved in as many team and
testing devices so that a range of training                      forms of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and                  to meet the demands of these games – for fun,         physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. This     she has achieved her Exercise Physiology                individual sporting ventures as possible.
methods can be employed to bring about                           metabolic syndrome). Resistance training                      quality experiences and performance – and             belief stems from his extensive involvement in     accreditation with Exercise Sport Science               She was named 2014 Melbourne University
desired physical fitness outcomes. The space                     plays an important role in reversing these                    the continued development of our Fit for Life         team sports (AFL, basketball and cricket) from     Australia and more recently, a Level 1 in               intercollegiate sports woman of the year.
has been designed to cater to the needs and                      processes (Westcott, 2009) and therefore                      program will target this.                             a young age, and has been reinforced through       Wellness Coaching.                                          Kirsty began a science degree at
interests of all girls, from those aspiring to                   considered vital in improving an individual’s                     The “Strong is the New Pretty” campaign           his studies and professional experiences.              Sarah comes with a broad set of sporting            Melbourne University with a view to pursuing
optimise their health and fitness potential to                   quality of life and functional capacity.                      has come to a close, but the message of                     Daniel completed an exercise science         experiences, including netball, basketball,             a career in medicine or physiotherapy. In
the emerging and elite athlete. Our vision is to                     Raising the issue of “aging” to a                         empowerment, embracing individuality,                 degree at Deakin University and is excited         gymnastics, athletics and Irish dancing. Her            electing a number of subjects in sports
create a welcoming and inclusive environment                     community geared towards children and                         and moving beyond our comfort zone will               to be able to use his skills, knowledge and        passion for exercise motivated her towards              coaching, exercise science and nutrition, she
that encourages endeavour and a strong work                      adolescents perhaps seems off-topic. To the                   continue through our actions, words and               experience to motivate people from all walks of    pursuing a career to inspire and help others in         came to see that her calling was to work in
ethic for continued improvement; and to value                    contrary – if poor levels of strength have such               programs.                                             life to achieve their fitness and life goals.      leading an active lifestyle.                            health, fitness and wellbeing - ideally in an
physical activity, health and wellbeing for all.                 significant implications to quality of life in                                                                                                                                                                                 educational setting. She is currently studying a
                                                                                                                                                                 Sally Bailey            Daniel joined MGGS having worked                   Sarah has a really positive and fun
     Over the month of August, our “Strong                       adults, it holds true that low levels of strength                              Director of Artemis Programs         previously in school environments and as an        energy, and her strong belief in the power of           Master’s Degree in secondary education.
is the New Pretty” campaign was about                            impact on developing bodies also.                                                                                   educator with Exercise Research Australia. Of      mindfulness as part of a holistic approach to                Kirsty’s goal is to assist people in achieving
encouraging our girls to be themselves, to be                        Strength training for children and                                                                              enormous value to us, is the broad range of        physical health and fitness are a true asset to         personal bests and bettering their health and
honest and to take confidence in celebrating                     adolescents is central to their physical                                                                            coaching and programming experience Daniel         our Fit for Life program.                               fitness on a daily basis. She believes that health
who they are and what they stand for. Strength                   development. Improved levels of strength                                                                            has gained from working with groups as varied                                                              is holistic and that a healthy mind and a healthy
– as both a physical attribute and human virtue                  can increase bone health, improve                                                                                   as apprentice jockeys to people living with a                                                              body together achieve overall wellness. Kirsty’s
- comes in many forms, and this was beautifully                  motor performance and skills, increase                                                                              disability.                                            My strategy is to assist the girls in               professional skills, knowledge and experiences
represented in a series of images over the                       cardiovascular fitness, increase resistance to                                                                                                                                                                                 make her a wonderful fit in our Fit for Life
month. We all have our own definition of what
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        discovering what matters to them in
                                                                 sports-related injuries, and improve sports                                                                                                                                                                                    program, and we welcome her passion and
it means to be strong, but I would imagine that                                                                                                                                                                                         health, wellbeing and physical activity.
                                                                 performance. A 2014 meta-analysis (Lauersen                                                                             In my opinion, a good fitness coach                                                                    desire to make a difference to the team.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        I believe it is important to realise your
                                                                                                                                                                                     is a facilitator, mentor and guide.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        goals and have guidance in that journey.
REFERENCES                                                                                                                                                                           Rather than standing over the athlete                                                                         Health and fitness is not about
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Being able to equip the girls with
1. Faigenbaum et al. (1996) Youth Resistance Training: Position Paper Statement And Literature Review. NSCA.                                                                         and telling them how it is, the very                                                                       how strong or how fit you are in
2. Faigenbaum et al. (1999) The Effects Of Different Resistance Training Protocols On Muscular Strength And Endurance                                                                                                                   confidence physically and mentally will
   Development In Children. Pediatrics, Vol 104, Number 1.                                                                                                                           best fitness coach will create a trusting                                                                  comparison to others, it’s about working
3. Soligard et al. (2008) Comprehensive Warm-Up Programme to Prevent Injuries In Young Female Footballers: Cluster                                                                                                                      enable a prosperous future.
   Randomised Controlled Trial. BMJ 2008;337;a2469.                                                                                                                                  bond, empowering their athletes to be                                                                      on becoming the best version of your
4. The ASCA Position Stand – Resistance Training for Children and Adolescents (http://www.strengthandconditioning.org/)                                                              the expert in their own life, and to find                                                                  individual self - because no two people
5. Galvao, D. A. and Newton, R.U. (2005). “Review of Exercise Intervention Studies in Cancer Patients”. Journal of clinical
   oncology, 23 (4): 899.                                                                                                                                                            their own drive and push themselves –                                                                      are alike. I want to share my experiences
6. Galvao, D. A. and Newton, R.U., and Taaffe, D.R. (2005). “Anabolic Responses to Resistance Training In Older Man And
   Women: A Brief Review”. Journal of aging and physical activity, 13: 343-358.
                                                                                                                                                                                     regardless of whether the coach is there                                                                   and my knowledge with the girls to help
7. Lauersen, J.B., Bertelsen, D.M., and Andersen, L.B. (2014) “The effectiveness of exercise interventions to prevent sports                                                         or not.                                                                                                    them understand the importance of their
   injuries: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” Br J Sports Med; 48:871-877.
8. Westcott, W. (2009) “ACSM Strength training guidelines: Role in body composition and health enhancement.” ACSM Health                                                                                                                                                                        health and self-love.
   and Fitness Journal; 13(4): 14-22.

6 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                      7
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
EARLY LEARNING
Capable Girls

Inspired by a collection of picture books featuring adventurous, determined,
independent girls as central characters, Thomas Group began an
investigation to explore the concept of what it means to be a ‘capable girl’.
    Educators supported our children to                 The language, awareness and confidence
identify every day moments when they felt they     that has come from this investigation
were acting like the characters in the books.      permeates our daily interactions. The project
Moments when the girls identified traits they      continues to motivate, shape and guide our
shared or skills they were mastering were          learning and relationships in positive ways.
acknowledged and celebrated. The language          May this be a firm foundation from which our
of capability quickly became imbedded in our       students continue to flourish as dreamers,
daily conversations and filtered into home-life.   creators and risk takers; strong, kind, brave,
                                                   resilient, capable girls.
    A capable girl is really strong, she is
    really clever, she is kind. I like capable         A capable girl is kind, solves problems
    girls. I am a capable girl.                        and is loving. She is good at climbing
    Maggie Mooney (age 4)                              things… you have to try and try and then
                                                       get clever at it. You have to be brave.
                                                       Alyssa Lawless (age 3)
     Many girls delighted in identifying diverse
ways they and their peers were being capable
in their learning and interactions. As their           Our project ran alongside the Melbourne
awareness and confidence grew we looked at         Girls Grammar #StrongistheNewPretty
other ways to explore the topic.                   campaign and the opening of the Artemis
                                                   Centre. The aim of this project was to celebrate
                                                   the holistic strength of our girls and showcase
    Capable girls paint. They never give up –
                                                   their resilience, confidence, independence and
    like Frida Kahlo. I paint. I am strong.
                                                   physical ability.
    I am kind. I am capable.
    Isabelle Wu (age 3)                                 The Early Learning Centre Jump Start
                                                   Gymnastics Program provides challenges for
                                                   the girls in a safe and stimulating environment.
      Students were encouraged to specify the      They are encouraged to call upon their
aspects they identified within themselves as       resilience and confidence to take risks and
a strength, the quality that supported their       test the limits of their physicality and explore
capacity to be self-determining. We explored       their strength and flexibility. Opportunities
these attributes and used them to design a doll    to practise being brave whilst learning to trust
that each child would transform into a ‘capable    their physical abilities and decision making
girl’. After considerable planning, our young      skills are an essential part of the program.
learners worked with educators and talented
                                                        This multifaceted approach to supporting
parents to bring their plans to fruition.
                                                   our youngest learners aims to build a secure
                                                   self-belief and awareness of the myriad of
    A capable girl is like me because I am         skills and attributes each girl already has. In
    a capable girl! She is strong and brave        turn, this understanding will provide her with
    and clever and she never gives up. I am        chances to build self-efficacy. These projects
    brave, I have music in my mind and             and programs of this nature help build a
    guess what… you’re a capable girl too!         repertoire of personal tools to assess and
    Nell Elliott (age 3)                           manage the challenges and risks that our girls
                                                   will face as they grow.
                                                                                 Sharne Rees
                                                                  Thomas Group Lead Educator

8 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                               MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017   9
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
JUNIOR YEARS
Wellbeing at Morris Hall

‘Once children realise that their minds matter, it makes a difference to how they’ll learn. It reinforces the enjoyment
and impact of the experience of learning’ - Daniel J Siegel, MD
     Feeling comfortable at school as well as            Our goal is to provide a proactive                   Our Wellbeing programs address the
being happy and healthy has a direct impact          environment to support students to develop           developmental needs of our students by
on each student’s optimal learning and their         the skills and mindset to actively manage            providing them with enduring understandings,
confidence and resilience. The relationship          their wellbeing. With a focus on developing          both explicit and responsive, that are based
between wellbeing and learning, therefore,           the whole child, the foundations of our              around five pillars (below). The Morris Hall
is critical to the development of each child at      program are built on our School values and           community demonstrates care, ensures safety
Morris Hall.                                         the 5Cs of learning dispositions (Committed,         and provides opportunities for our students to
    Wellbeing underpins our academic                 Collaborative, Curious, Creative and Critical        derive enjoyment from their learning through
learning and is woven into all school                Thinking).                                           these pillars.
experiences. Developing positive teacher-                 Students learn to build the confidence in           Artemis opens up many opportunities
student and school relationships and                 themselves, to develop a sense of who they           for our Morris Hall girls. Our Prep – 4 girls
identifying how to improve student learning          are, how they learn best and how to negotiate        were excited to commence their swimming
and wellbeing are the focus of the evolution         situations and social interactions to achieve        and gymnastics activities in Artemis in Term 4
of our approach. The emotional, social               positive outcomes. Being confident enables           2017. The short walk from Caroline Street to
and physical developmental needs of girls            them to be open minded to different views            Anderson Street campus gives our girls a whole
inform professional conversations and the            and new experiences, resilient in different          new world of excellent experiences within the
conversations we have with our community.            situations, and harmoniously move forward            beautiful Artemis Centre.
                                                     to focus on their academic learning and life                                    Karen McClintock
                                                     potential.                                                             Year 1 Teacher, Morris Hall

   Health and                       Personal                     Interpersonal                   Community                     Spiritual
   Wellbeing                        Learning                     Learning                        Life                          Life                          Self knowledge is the key benefit of
   – is based on                    – is supported               – involves healthy,             – values authentic            – stillness and               wellbeing as it offers opportunities
   awareness of                     by individual                respectful and                  opportunities for             reflection provide            to create balance. At Morris Hall,
   developmental                    perseverance and             sustainable                     students to connect           occasions for                 we are building health, happiness
   stages and supports              willingness to take          associations - through          with each other               contemplation about           and resilience into the fabric of our
   physical and                     risks and personal           social interactions,            and the wider                 ourselves and the             students’ lives.
   emotional wellbeing              motivation to try,           communication and               school community.             world around us.
   through daily life               improve and grow.            nonverbal cues to               Student leadership            Students explore
   choices. Physical and            These increase               facilitate positive             provides mentoring            questions of faith
   mental health are                self confidence to           and supportive                  interactions and              and life honestly
   interconnected. For              embrace different            relationships. This             openings to lead our          and openly with an
   students to thrive at            experiences and              pillar incorporates             community to make             emphasis on careful,
   school, they should              personal challenges          Child Safety Standards          a positive difference:        respectful discussions
   feel emotionally                 and so develops              and cyber safety, along         locally, nationally and       and acknowledge the
   healthy and balanced.            self esteem. This            with problem solving            as a global citizen.          multicultural, multi
   Consequently, this               pillar integrates goal       activities and, optional        This pillar comprises         faith society which is
   pillar covers areas              setting reflections,         instructional lunch             participation in              21st Century Australia.
   such as healthy eating,          personal learning            time activities.                Social Service Days,          This pillar includes
   exercise, mindfulness            styles, resilience                                           buddy program and             fortnightly occasions
   and puberty.                     and experiential                                             healthy friendship            to host Chapel
                                    camps along with                                             behaviours.                   services and Faith
                                    emotional literacy and                                                                     Studies sessions with
                                    regulation.                                                                                our School Chaplain.        TOP: Human Mandala – Year 1
                                                                                                                                                           LEFT & ABOVE: Partner Yoga – Year 1

10 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                                                                                      MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017   11
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
MIDDLE YEARS
                                                                                                                                                                         6         Lola Dahan

                                                                                                                                                                      Year
Learning to Welcome Challenge
                                                                                                                                                                                             Why these activities?
                                                                                                                                                                                             Sport has always been a highlight of school for me. I love that I can
                                                                                                                                                                                             try something new and this year, I decided to give Triathlon a go.
                                                                                                                                                                      Physical               What do I love most about it?
                                                                                                                                                                      Activities             The friends I meet and the squad I have become a part of. I also
We gain so much knowledge by participating in a sport. Focus, discipline, hard work, goal setting and, of course, the thrill                                          2017:                  like being able to push myself to become the best I can be in these
                                                                                                                                                                                             challenges. I have surprised myself with some of my physical
of finally achieving your goals. These are all lessons in life. Kristi Yamaguchi (Olympic Champion)                                                                    › Swimming            achievements this year.
                                                                                                                                                                       › Athletics &
     As girls enter adolescence, they tend to stop       are reflective of the most current trends in the       to develop resilience. These physical activities                             Thoughts on Artemis:
                                                                                                                                                                         Cross Country
engaging in as much physical activity as they            benefits of sport and exercise on each girl’s          are opportunities for our girls to dedicate some
                                                                                                                                                                          Competitions       The new centre has allowed me to train even when the weather is
did in late childhood. As early as 10 years of age,      wellbeing. All our Wildfell and St Hilda’s girls are   part of their week practising perseverance while                             not great. In fact, I have decided to try some other physical activities
                                                                                                                                                                        › Triathlon
girls begin to become more sedentary, with their         encouraged to participate either competitively or      engaging in an activity that interests them.                                 next year thanks to Artemis as I look forward to spending more time
activity levels dropping by as much as 83 percent        recreationally through a breadth of opportunities      Physical activity, be it running, yoga or ballet,                            in the building.
as they transition through adolescence. This             that cater for a wide range of needs. Regardless of    provides a combination of challenge and intrinsic
sharp decrease in girls’ physical activity levels        which physical activity they choose, every girl is     motivation, a way for a young adolescent girl to
is concerning; engaging in physical activity as a        encouraged to strive to achieve her personal best      practice and therefore develop the passion and
preteen and teenager has important implications          for optimal wellbeing.                                 perseverance to achieve long term goals.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                        7      Florence

                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Year
for adulthood. Research suggests that helping                                                                        Our Senior Years wellbeing program is
girls develop active lifestyles as adolescents                                                                  one that focuses on educating our students and
facilitates them continuing that active lifestyle            The data we have collected on our
                                                                                                                helping them respond to the challenges they
                                                             2017 Middle Years students have

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Kimberley
into adulthood. These findings are pertinent and                                                                face in the areas of social connectedness, mental
have greatly informed our strategic planning                 shown 100% participation rate from
                                                                                                                health and physical health. In the Senior Years,
of programs at Melbourne Girls Grammar to                    our Wildfell girls and 98% from our
                                                                                                                each girl will develop her own Fit for Life profile
address declining participation and to promote               St Hilda’s girls. These are astounding
                                                                                                                as an extension of the physical activities in which                                                        Physical
greater uptake of physical activity for our girls at         results compared to what the
                                                             research is indicating as the norm for             she participates. This is a tracking measure                                                               Activities                         Why I chose these pathways?
this crucial age.
                                                             this age group of girls in other parts             for individuals to keep active and continue to                                                             2017:                              I have never really tried any of them before
     The new Artemis Centre further                          of Australia and the rest of the world.            achieve their physical goals, supporting their
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          › Diving                            and thought it would be fun to try something
demonstrates our commitment to providing                                                                        mental health and overall wellbeing for life. As
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          › Rock Climbing                     new. I have since learnt that it is great to try
programs and resources that underpin our                                                                        we look forward to our girls transitioning into
                                                                                                                                                                                                                         › Sailing                            new things even if you don’t know much
proactive approach to student wellbeing. Our                  In the Middle Years, an important aspect of       this program in future years, it is essential for
                                                                                                                                                                                                                         › Dance                              about them in the first place.
overarching objective is to empower our girls            our planned activities is that they are designed to    the preparation and engagement to start in the
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        › Golf
to understand the essentials of good health, so          cultivate interest, practice and purpose. Angela       Middle Years.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        › Martial Arts
that they set and pursue goals in which their            Duckworth in her book entitled Grit, The Power                                             Roshan Lee
wellbeing is a priority. With this focus in mind,        of Passion and Perseverance identifies this as one                     Acting Director of Middle Years
we ensure our physical activities and programs           of the important elements in enabling children

         5             Zoe Small                                                                                                                                         8         Victoria Kwan
     Year

                                                                                                                                                                      Year
                                                                                                                                                                                              What I love about my pathway:
                                                What I love about my pathway:                                                                                                                 Diversity and challenge. Thanks to the access that physical

       Physical                                                                                                                                                        Physical
                                                This is my first year in the Middle Years.                                                                                                    pathways has given me, I have found many different sports that
                                                Trying out all the different activities and                                                                                                   I like, even some that I did not expect to enjoy, like badminton! I
       Activities                               each pathway has been so much fun.                                                                                     Activities             personally feel that I am being challenged the most when fulfilling
       2017:                                    Swimming ‘as fast as we can’ at the end of a                                                                           2017:                  my commitments to swimming, not only because of the physically
                                                term of training has meant a very different                                                                                                   demanding aspect of it but also the fact that I have to wake up
         › Sailing                                                                                                                                                       › Martial Arts
                                                thing to swimming ‘as fast as we could’ at the                                                                                                extra early in the morning to ensure I am prepared for training.
         › Cardio Tennis                                                                                                                                                 › Taekwondo
                                                start of the term. I have loved learning new                                                                                                  Through my various training sessions, I have learnt to maintain
          › Swimming                                                                                                                                                      › Swimming
                                                skills in activities I never thought I would                                                                                                  focus as well. However, most importantly to me, I have learnt to
          › Cheerleading                                                                                                                                                  › GSV Tennis/
                                                try. I am grateful to my new friends for                                                                                                      have a lot of fun as I train with my friends.
           › Taekwondo                                                                                                                                                      Swimming/
           › Athletics                          persuading me to participate in athletics.                                                                                   Badminton        Thoughts on Artemis:
                            all
            › Beach Volleyb                                                                                                                                                › Rock Climbing    AMAZING! I use the swimming pool regularly and feel that Artemis
                                                                                                                                                                                              has made me feel further engaged with my physical pathways.

12 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                                                                                                                                                                                      MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017              13
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
SENIOR YEARS                                                                                                                                                                                                             SENIOR YEARS
Choice, flexibility and motivation                                                                                                                              VALEDICTORY CELEBRATIONS – CLASS OF 2017

At the official opening of the Artemis Centre, we were reminded by our                               In a change to previous schedules, the valedictory season of 2017 opened with a breakfast celebration. The class of
Principal, Catherine Misson, that wellbeing is not just about the physical                           2017 joined together with their family and teachers to reflect on the year that has passed and look forward to the
aspects of our life, but moreover authentic wellbeing encompasses the                                events which lie ahead. It was a delight to see the girls sharing stories and introducing family to the teachers who
spiritual, social and emotional elements too.                                                        have shared in this journey to Year 12.
     The same can be said for Artemis itself;    small groups in the more social environment of           Fed and watered, the group moved on                of their lives is now drawing to a close, and,         event, the Valedictory Dinner. Gathering
more than just a physical space on our campus,   the Artemis Café alongside the academic staff.      to the first formal event of the program – the          although the Class of 2017 look forward with           together at the waterside venue in South
Artemis plays a fundamental role within              With an array of specialist Fitness Coaches     Valedictory Chapel. Here the girls were                 anticipation at what lies ahead, it is clear that      Wharf, the Class of 2017 were celebrated
the social, emotional, spiritual and physical    on hand to create and support the girls through     celebrated through hymns, chosen by the                 the loss of the daily routine at Merton Hall will      in style. Summed up to perfection by
lives of our Senior Years students. Situated     their own personal training regime and our          cohort and led in prayer by Reverend Denise             leave a significant hole in their lives.               Valedictorian Isabelle Stewart, referring to
at the centre of the wellbeing ecosystem         team of Wellbeing Coaches, available for 1:1, or    Nicholls.                                                   The farewells were led by 2018 School              the montage of motivation they had created in
within the Senior Years Model, Artemis has       small group sessions, the girls really can make          For many, the crescendo of emotion                 Captain, Millicent Perkins, who congratulated          their Common Room to keep them on track
fundamentally changed the way our girls          the most of all that is on offer and determine      is realised in the Valedictory Assembly.                the cohort for their warmth of spirit, inclusive       through the toughest of times, she remarked,
shape their day and the benefits have been       the shape of their day to maximise their holistic   Gathering together as a whole community                 community and left them with the words of              “education, drive and love mark the class
immediately visible.                             wellbeing needs.                                    in the Melbourne Recital Centre to bid                  wisdom, from the inspiration behind the 2017           of 2017. I strongly believe that the Wall of
     Opening its doors for sunrise sessions at                                                       farewell to the girls, the emotion becomes all          House Drama “Don’t cry because it is over.             Legends, although inspirational, are nothing
                                                     Far from being just another building,
6.30am, the girls (and indeed our staff) can                                                         too real. Despite being a celebration of their          Smile because it happened.” (Dr Seuss)                 compared to the room of legends we have
                                                 Artemis provides opportunity for growth,
choose to begin their day with an invigorating                                                       achievement as a cohort, the assembly is also a                                                                around us tonight”.
                                                 choice and potential; as Ophelia comments to                                                                     Indeed, the Class of 2017 have much
Pilates or Yoga class, or an early morning dip   Hamlet “we know what we are, but not what           series of ‘lasts’; the last time they will recite the   to smile about, captured beautifully by the                 On behalf of the entire Senior Years
in the pool. With an extensive program of        we may be”. With enhanced choice, flexibility       School Prayer, the last time they will sing Nisi        Captains in their address to the School.               team here at Melbourne Girls Grammar, I
activities scheduled throughout the day, our     and a sprinkling of motivation, our Senior          Dominus and the last time they will enunciate           Stepping up to the take the stage first was 2017       would like to congratulate the Class of 2017
Senior Years girls can choose the option that    Years girls are free to explore to the utmost       the letter ‘t’ in the word ‘it’ with quite such         School Captain Elisabeth Wong-Hansen,                  for all they have achieved and the legacy
suits their own personal schedule.               limits of not only who they are, but ultimately,    vigour.                                                 known to her peers simply as E. Reflecting             they leave behind. They will be remembered
    Making optimal use of the Independent        who they can be.                                         As the Wildfell Choir began their                  through the form of a letter to her Year 7 self,       fondly as a group of young women who were
Learning Times, our girls can elect to work                                                          Farewell Song (a longstanding Merton Hall               E not only spoke to her immediate peers, but           compassionate, inclusive and indeed (to use
                                                                                  Nikki Kirkup
autonomously in the Artemis Learning                                                                 tradition) the tears began to flow and by the           reached out to the wider School Community.             their motto for one last time) “better together”.
                                                                        Director of Senior Years
Commons or alternatively to collaborate in                                                           time the Year 12 Ensemble sang the first line,          She reminded the girls to “seize the day”,             We wish them all the best for whatever lies
                                                                                                     “I have a dream…” there was not a dry eye               “embrace the sisterhood” and to “know all the          ahead and for the endless opportunities they
                                                                                                     in the front row. The emotion was genuine               girls around you, no matter what year they are         will encounter in their journey beyond the red
                                                                                                     and exceptionally moving to watch; a special            in”. This was a genuine reminder of the unique         brick walls.
                                                                                                     thanks to Mrs Broadway for strategically                values and spirit of our school.                                                        Nikki Kirkup
                                                                                                     placing tissues at the end of the rows. There is a           With barely enough time for the tears to                                 Director of Senior Years
                                                                                                     sense of realisation that this particular chapter       dry, the celebrations culminated in the final

14 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017
                                                                                                          “Better, together”                                                                                     MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017             15
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
SENIOR YEARS Production                                                                                                                                                       BOARDING
A Midsummer Night’s Dream                                                                                                                                       Student Reflections

On 24 and 25 August Melbourne                          Since starting at Melbourne Girls                       Since beginning boarding at MGGS in                   Being from a small country town on the
Girls Grammar held the Senior                      Grammar (MGGS) in 2014, I have seen many               2015, I have had the privilege to be a part of a      Murray River, the only experience I have with
                                                   changes in the Boarding House as well as in            constantly developing community. With new             other cultures is from family trips to Bali. In
Years School Production of                         the day school. Commencing in Year 8, I was            initiatives such as the Artemis Centre and            the Boarding House there are new girls, and
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in                     part of the first group of St Hilda’s girls in the     our newly upgraded T-Bar cafe, I have been            even residential staff coming and going which
Ross Hall. The production was a                    Boarding House. The St Hilda's (Year 7 and 8)          exposed to endless new opportunities and              changes the dynamics and strengthens our
modern adaptation of the renowned                  Program was designed to support the younger            refreshed surroundings.                               ability to adapt. The ever-changing community
comedic play, drawing traditional                  boarders adapt and adjust to all things MGGS.              The Artemis Centre is full of untouched           contributes largely to the culture within the
                                                   Since the program was developed, I have                experiences that myself and my peers can’t wait       Boarding House and our own individual
aspects of Shakespeare with a                      observed it changing annually to support the                                                                 experience. For example, there are girls from
                                                                                                          to utilise. Whether it’s the academic top floor
contemporary lift.                                 dynamics of each new group.                            Learning Commons that will be beneficial for          Singapore, Dubai, China, Thailand, Malaysia
                                                       Food is always a hot topic for boarders.           my Year 12 journey, or the sporting facilities        and all around Australia - even some local
     The stage was adorned with a rustic
                                                   The introduction to the ‘low sugar’ menu was           such as the multipurpose courts, fitness hub,         Melbournians. This diversity, which continues
backdrop of wooden panels woven with green
                                                   certainly something to adjust to, and whilst           dance room and pool. Further, it is great             to grow, contributes to the incredible culture
ivy vines, the audiences finding themselves
                                                   friends who joined the Boarding House in               that such an amazing facility is right on the         of acceptance within the Boarding House, also
at the intersection of the Athenian world and
                                                   Year 9 may have missed the opportunity to              Boarding House doorstep as this encourages            extending into the day school. I have loved
the realm of magic. The narrative followed
                                                   have desserts every night - I assure them we are       me to participate further in sports and utilize       the opportunity to gain new experiences and
the romantic entanglements abound in the
                                                   better off for it.                                     the space for my studies and gain the best            perspectives through getting to know different
woods, with married fairy rulers Titania and
                                                                                                          experiences possible.                                 girls.
Oberon toying with the love of the Mechanics           The most significant day school change
and Athenians. The twisting storylines of          has without a doubt been the construction of                                       Mia Waring, Year 11                           Grace Mulquiney, Year 10
romance were complemented by a backdrop            the Artemis Centre. After experiencing a year
of entanglement, a mystical soundtrack and a       of Tom Thomas (former physical education
vibrant lighting design.                           space), and almost two years of construction
     Dancing and acting auditions were             time, it is really exciting that Artemis has finally
held in Term 2 and students rehearsed              arrived.
twice a week, often workshopping in small               Whilst many things have changed, the
ensemble groups with teacher support.              School and the Boarding House retains the
The directors purposefully empowered the           same strong sense of community as when I
girls to experiment with their own theatrical      first arrived. It is this community that makes
choices when developing characters and             MGGS a great place to be a boarder.
blocking scenes. The Production was a                                       Isabelle Dudley, Year 11
highly collaborative process, led by students’
theatrical choices and strengths.
    The cast involved over 50 students from
Years 9 – 12. Students were encouraged to
experience all aspects of the theatre experience
and there were many opportunities for
leadership beyond acting including backstage
managing, lighting and costumes. The
night was also supported by student ushers,
volunteer staff and the Music, Art and Drama
(MAaD) Parent Auxiliary for preshow
refreshments.
    The Drama Faculty thanks the Melbourne
Girls Grammar Community for their immense
support and looks forward to sharing
upcoming productions in 2018.
                                Victoria Page
                               Head of Drama

16 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                                                                                     MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017           17
INFORMATION EXCHANGE - THE ARTEMIS EDITION - Melbourne Girls ...
ELC Father’s Day Breakfasts                                  INAUGURATION OF THE 2018
Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 August 2017                    STUDENT EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

The Early Learning Centre (ELC)                   “O God, give us the courage to change what ought to be changed, serenity
community welcomed fathers and                    to know what cannot be changed, and wisdom to know the one from the
special friends to a breakfast held               other” Amen.
in their honour on Wednesday 30
                                                       The Student Executive Council (SEC)              a common goal as he recounted his days of
and Thursday 31 August.                           Prayer has been recited at countless                  travelling on precarious pathways through the
    Our guests and children enjoyed a             Inauguration Services and SEC meetings over           Andes Mountains in order to work with the
delicious breakfast together and the hum          time at Melbourne Girls Grammar (MGGS)                indigenous peoples of the area he described as
of conversation filled the deck area of the       and paves the pathway for students to commit          “the top of the world”.
Barbara Tolson Centre. Before moving into         to a process of considered and continuous                  In her closing reflection, 2018 School
the Learning Studios, our four-year-old girls     improvement and inclusiveness within the              Captain, Millicent Perkins spoke of her
gathered together to sing a beautiful Italian     student body whilst maintaining and observing         excitement for the year ahead and the unique
song for their guests. Our three-year-old girls   important school traditions.                          characteristics of the new SEC. “We have such
entertained their loved ones in their learning        The Inauguration of the 2018 SEC was              a diverse SEC and can’t wait to harness and
studios by singing some of their favourite        held in the Chapel of St Luke and attended            utilise everyone’s unique strengths and talents”.
songs in many different languages. After          by the girls’ parents and friends, their Year 11                                    Lynn Broadway
presenting their guests with a special gift,      peers, teachers and a number of sisters from             Deputy Principal: Staffing and Operations
the dads were able to spend time with their       younger year levels in Week 2 of Term 4.
daughters, sharing and engaging in the many           In line with tradition, the Dean of
learning experiences within the rooms. It was     Melbourne, the Right Reverend Dr Andreas                  Warmest congratulations to the
a wonderful way to celebrate and acknowledge      Loewe officiated and handed each student                  Student Executive Council as they take
the special role that fathers and close friends   her SEC badge as a token of her office. In his
                                                                                                            on the following roles for 2018:
play in the girls lives.                          address, the Dean spoke of the importance of
                            Margaret Sellar       knowing your purpose and having the courage               School Captain: Millicent Perkins
                      Head of Early Learning      to pursue it, even if you are not quite sure              School Vice Captain: Emma Beaumont
                                                  how you are going to get there. He spoke of               School Vice Captain: Isobel Nicholls
                                                  the advantages of working together towards                Boarding House Captain: Evangeline Mullins
                                                                                                            Boarding House Vice Captain: Charlotte Douglas
                                                                                                            Batman Captain: Abbie McKay
                                                                                                            Batman Vice Captain: Emma Martin
                                                                                                            Clarke Captain: Henrietta Roxburgh
                                                                                                            Clarke Vice Captain: Ella Best
                                                                                                            Hensley Captain: Da Won (Dawn) Lee
                                                                                                            Hensley Vice Captain: Ella Bennetts
                                                                                                            Mungo Captain: Heidi Templeton
                                                                                                            Mungo Vice Captain: Katherine (Kate) Martin
                                                                                                            Taylor Captain: Kathryn (Kate) Morgan
                                                                                                            Taylor Vice Captain: Alexandra Bortolussi
                                                                                                            Art Captain: Nicola Jerkovic
                                                                                                            Art Vice Captain: Sophie Smith
                                                                                                            CAS Captain: Miranda Hoffman
                                                                                                            CAS Vice Captain: Gabriella (Lella) Lee
                                                                                                            Drama Captain: Kirriley Bonett
                                                                                                            Drama Vice Captain: Emma McRobert
                                                                                                            Music Captain: Anna Batty
                                                                                                            Music Vice Captain: Jackie Wong
                                                                                                            Sports Captain: Cleo Faulks
                                                                                                            Sports Vice Captain: Edwina Carr

18 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                             MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017             19
Art exhibition                                                                                                                                                                                            CENTRE FOR EDUCATIONAL ENTERPRISE
Wednesday 18 - Saturday 21 October                                                                                                                                                                                                                          A WORLD OF DISRUPTION

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    1

There was an overarching ambience of joy and innovation throughout the 2017 Melbourne Girls Grammar Art                                                                                                                                                        Enterprising Minds Conference,
Exhibition. This was embraced on the night through the words of guest speaker and key Artemis architect Juliet Moore.                                                                                                                                          Thursday 10 - Friday 11 August 2017
     Moore’s insight into the world that is        uncanny characters which took a sustainable               Of course one of the highlights of our                                                                                                                 The Centre for Educational Enterprise
artmaking brought with it an appreciation of       approach to artmaking as resources from               exhibition is always showcasing the work of                                                                                                           (CEE), held its biennial conference,
the hours and the vulnerability and dedication     reverse garbage were explored.                        our ELC. The students at these levels express                                                                                                         Enterprising Minds, in Melbourne bringing
of which it takes to create. She responded              Our Year 12s responded strongly to their         their thoughts and ideas with such energy,                                                                                                            together 160 delegates and speakers from
positively to works within the exhibition that     camp experience at MONA in Tasmania,                  and imagination. Environmental themes                                                                                                                 Australia, New Zealand, Cambodia, the UK
challenged the use of traditional materials        where they were inspired by works of a                ran strong throughout their works as depth,                                                                                                           and the USA. Professional discussions took
and techniques, innovatively and creatively        sensory nature. Texture, video, noise and             form, textures, sculpture and collage captured                                                                                                        place about the future of work and why and
resolved ideas, and themes that showed the         light was evident in students works through           passionate responses to stories.                                                                                                                      how education and schools must change to
artists soul. Her words inspired the intimacy of   the increased interdisciplinary approach used              The department’s dynamic program can be                                                                                                          ensure we prepare our young people to be
the event and sparked an evening of shared art     as they captured themes of the environment,           attributed to the dedication of its staff. I would                                                                                                    equipped and inspired for this world they
appreciation.                                      empathy, indulgence and the isolated self.            like to thank Marcel Cousins, Sheryle Allen,                                                                                                          live in today and in the future, a world of
     This year the Art Curriculum was heavily                                                            Belinda Lloyd, Claire Gallagher, Charmaine
                                                                                                                                                                                                                         2                                     disruption.
                                                         The recipient of this year’s Polly Winterton
enriched through Melbourne’s touring               Boarders award was Rebecca Francis, who’s             Irwin, Sheryle Allen, Matt Perkins, Kate Caish,                                                                                                           The Conference was preceded by the
exhibition program. Many works reflected           interdisciplinary installation ‘Blur’ explored the    Bridie Scarce, Susanna Watterston, Sally Hill                                                                                                         inaugural meeting of the CEE Member
the influences of Viktor & Rolf, Hockney, Van      life cycle of water and it’s environmental effects.   and Kieran Pinnuck.                                                                                                                                   Schools Network with six of our fifteen global
Gogh and Hokusai. Sculpture reigned strong         The work captured the abstraction of nature                                       Nicole Harbison                                                                                                           members in attendance.
this year, demonstrated through the Year 7s,       through the emphasis of colour and light.                      Head of Senior Years Art Curriculum                                                                                                               The event was expertly convened by
with Emily Floyd inspired assemblages of                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Jan Owen AM, the CEO of the Foundation
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               for Young Australians and joined by
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               keynote speakers: Old Grammarian Jacqui
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Savage, Founder and Director MedCorp
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Technologies; Professor Richard Elmore,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Harvard Graduate School of Education; and
                                                                                                                                                                                                    3                                           4              Mr Ross Dawson, Futurist. The speakers
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               provoked the audience to reimagine schooling
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               and consider alternative models that are future
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               focused.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        5           Part conference, part think tank, the CEE
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               event provided a platform for attendees to
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               engage in meaningful discussions regarding
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               the evolution of work and the necessity
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               to reframe the experience of education to
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               complement the changing landscapes that
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               await school leavers.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    We are passionate about driving the
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               conversation on the future of schooling
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               and the future of our young people beyond
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               their schooling experience. CEE, through its
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Member Schools Network, Director’s Lecture
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Series and Conference, has created a forum
                                                                                                                                                              1. Professor Philippa Pattison AO, David Price OBE, Dominic Sharpe, Jeffrey                      for like-minded schools and educators to
                                                                                                                                                                 Holte, Professor Richard Elmore - Disruptive Schooling keynote speakers
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               support each other to innovate the schooling
                                                                                                                                                              2. Dr Leonie Walsh, Jacqueline Savage, Aaron Tait - Careers Inspiration
                                                                                                                                                                 keynote speakers                                                                              experience for the benefit of our students.
                                                                                                                                                              3. Jeffrey Holte                                                                                                           Francesca Conte
                                                                                                                                                              4. Convenor, Jan Owen AM Hon DLitt, CEO, Foundation for Young                                                 Community Enterprise Manager
                                                                                                                                                                 Australians
                                                                                                                                                              5. Ross Dawson
                                                                                                                                                              6. Professor Richard Elmore                                                   6

20 MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017                                                                                                                                                                                                                    MGGS INFORMATION EXCHANGE SUMMER 2017            21
MERTON    HALL
                                                                                                                                                                                                     ROWING CLUB

                                                                                                                                                                                Title:
                                                                                                                                                                                          The school would like to thank
                                                                                                                                                                                                        Notes:              Client             Project     Designer
                                                                                                                                                                                Rowing Logo Final Three Arno Pro no locks   Christian Neeson   MHRC logo   Bats_Aughton_Design
                                                                                                                                                                                          Mike Steele for his incredible
                                                                                                                                                                                          contribution and dedication to the

Archives: History OF Rowing AT MGGS                                                                                                                                                       MHRC. A highlight of his time at
                                                                                                                                                                                          MGGS was in 2011 and 2012 coaching
                                                                                                                                                                                          the 1st VIII to win two National titles
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Merton Hall Rowing Club
                                                                                                                                                                                          and two Victoria Head of School Girls
1979 - 2017                                                                                                                                                                               championships. Mike became Head                                                                                      Celebrating 30 years of rowing
                                                                                                                                                                                          of Rowing in 2015. We wish Mike all
                                                                                                                                                                                          the best with his future endeavours.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    1

                                                                                                                                                                  1
MGGS introduced rowing in 1979, when schoolgirl rowing was in its                                                                                                              Early on the 16 September 2017, crowds gathered on the banks of the Yarra River
infancy. Twenty girls signed up, although not all relished the challenges                                                                                                      to celebrate a truly magnificent millstone, the Merton Hall Rowing Club (MHRC)
and endurance needed in rowing. They were inspired by teacher, Janet                                                                                                           turning 30 years old.
Michelmore, (Kay 1971), who was assisted by David Boykett, dual Olympic
                                                                                                                                                                                     The day began in the dark with our current                                                  where the 1st VIII crew will be presented with
oarsman.                                                                                                                                                                       squad of girls gathering for the annual Head                                                      a 1st VIII hat on which their individual cap
    1985 saw the first Head of Schoolgirls         and determination. With Mike Steele as Head                                                                                 of the Anderson St Regatta; an internal regatta                                                   number will be displayed. Currently a total of 170
Regatta on the Barwon and, in 1987, the            Coach of the 1st VIII, this approach paid off                                                                               where all girls from the Junior, Intermediate and                                                 girls represented the School at the Head of the
Merton Rowing Club was formed to support           in 2011 and 2012 when, for two years in a row,                                                                              Senior squads are all thrust into the same boats                                                  Schoolgirls' Regatta in a First boat.
rowing in the School. Clearly the School           MGGS took honours in all three prestigious                                                                                  and given the opportunity to row with girls of                                                        The final event for the day was the
had developed some good rowers as Fiona            events, Head of the Yarra, the Nationals and                                                                                varying skill level. While the girls battled through                                              christening of two new boats for the School.
Sutherland, Year 11, gained an AIS Scholarship     Head of Schoolgirls.                                                                                                        some heavy rain it was clear that the opportunity                                                 Catherine Misson christened the schools brand
and Natasha Gooding and Karina Home,                                                                                                                                           to meet and row with different members of the                                                     new 1st VIII boat named “The Merton”, while
                                                        In 2013, three rowers, Phoebe Rennie,                                                                                  club was enthusiastically accepted. One highlight
Year 12, received scholarships to the South        Pepita Hosking and Olivia Douglas,                                                                                                                                                                                            Don Clarke, a previous MHRC treasurer,
Australian Institute of Rowing.                                                                                                                                                of the morning was seeing an eight boat on the                                                    MHRC President and stalwart of the club
                                                   represented Australia in the World Junior                                                                           2
                                                                                                                                                                               water that consisted entirely of sisters! Girls from                                              christened the “Don Clarke”.
     In 1995, Loui Spanos became Rowing            Titles in Lithuania. Other rowers, such as Katie                                                                            Bennetts, Roxburgh, Martin and Perkins family                                                                                                                                 2
Coordinator and the tradition of the summer        Michelmore, Georgie Howe and her sister,                                                                                                                                                                                          It was a truly wonderful occasion to see so
                                                                                                                                                                               all took to the water in what was a fine example of
training camp began. For the next decade,          Ellie, have competed internationally. While                                                                                                                                                                                   many friends and families down at the sheds
                                                                                                                                                                               what makes our boat club so special - family.
results in rowing were varied. The best result,    the unprecedented level of success of 2011-12                                                                                                                                                                                 reminiscing over fond memories of early
in 2006, saw the first three crews coming third    could not be sustained, rowing at MGGS in the                                                                                    The parents also took to the water in the                                                    mornings and late evenings spent down on the
in their A Finals.                                 period 2013 – 2017 has reflected a club with a                                                                              Annual Presidents Cup regatta battling it out                                                     river toiling away in boats all summer long.
                                                   fine work ethic and, perhaps more importantly,                                                                              on the Yarra over a 300m race course in a bid to
     The appointment, in 2008, of Christian                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           I would like to take this opportunity to
                                                   rowers with a strong culture of team work and                                                                               raise money for the club. As the parents paddled
Neeson as Rowing Coordinator, Annabelle                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          thank the current MHRC committee for putting
                                                   cooperation.                                                                                                                their way down the river a steady stream of Old
Eaton as Development Coach and Justine                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           together what was a truly special day for all those
                                                                                                                                                                               Grammarians and friends of the club cheered on
Tonner Joyce as Senior Coach, ushered in a                           Pip O’Connor (Farrer 1965)                                                                                                                                                                                  who were involved. We are very lucky to have
                                                                                                                                                                               the auspicious occasion.
period of unprecedented success. Christian                                Multimedia Historian                                                                                                                                                                                   the support of such a wonderful and dedicated
worked well with all stakeholders - coaches,                                                                                                                                        The formal proceedings of the morning got                                                    parent group.                                                       3
girls and parents - and the girls were given the                                                                                                                               underway with an address from our Principal
                                                                                                                                                                  3                                                                                                                                                         Mike Steele
mantra. “Learn to row, then learn to work, then                                                                                                                                Catherine Misson who expressed her best wishes
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Head of Rowing
learn to race”. The girls worked with passion                                                                                                                                  to the girls for their season ahead and her thanks
                                                                                                                                                                               and support to past and present supporters of
                                                                                                                                                                               the boat club. The Rev. Denise Nichols blessed
                                                                                                                                                                               the fleet ahead of what is shaping up to be a very                                                1.   MHRC President Don Clarke
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 2.   Grant Crothers, Andrew Perkins and Mike Steele
                                                                            4                                                                                                  exciting season for the whole boat club.                                                          3.   Principal Catherine Misson Christening the new 1st VIII 'The Merton'
                                                                                                                                                                                    Our 2007 1st VIII were invited back for                                                      4.   Andrew Perkins, John Roxburgh, Nigel Henham and Nick Green
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 5.   A mix of parents and students
                                                                                                                                                                               their ten-year reunion and to present our 2017                                                    6.   Sue Kelsall, Vanessa Hose, Kate Birrell and Susan Mollard
                                                                                                                                                                               1st VIII with their 1st VIII caps. A new tradition                                                7.   Head of Rowing Mike Steele

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         4
                                                                                                                                                                           5

                                                                                      1. 1997 Rowing Coordinator, Loui Spanos, Captain of Boats, Kate Henderson
                                                                                         and Vice-Captain Fiona Bird with the new scull, named after OG Danni Roche,
                                                                                         gold medallist in hockey at Atlanta.
                                                                                      2. 2011 Ist VIII
                                                                                      3. 2012 Ist VIII
                                                                                      4. 1985 Ist Four, cox, Caroline Beazley, stroke, Libby Williams, 2, Sarah
                                                                                         Bottomley, 3, Sally Cumming 4, Libby Langley.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 6              7

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