QUAERITE | The Journal of Shelford Girls' Grammar - SUMMER 2020-2021
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SUMMER 2020–2021 QUAERITE | The Journal of Shelford Girls’ Grammar
COVID timeline 2020 Principal’s welcome
First and foremost, I want to thank everyone in the Shelford
24 July The traditional Senior School community for their support of the School during 2020
House Performing Arts event is cancelled. amidst the enormous difficulties and challenges COVID has
Instead, small groups from each House
presented us. Our teachers, parents and students took each
July
perform in segments which are video
recorded.
challenge head on and focused on providing our girls the
30 July COVID-19 cases in Australia peak,
with 721 new cases in 24 hours. best possible solutions for their continued learning. I am
very proud of our response and focus and I know parents
2 August Premier Daniel Andrews declares an official State of appreciated the massive efforts of teachers and staff under
Disaster for Victoria, introducing a curfew and 5km travel limit. trying circumstances.
Businesses are limited in their trading capacity.
3 August The last day of VCE onsite teaching for the foreseeable As a new principal, and in pursuit of I am excited to be leading Shelford
future. The School and Early Learning Centre are open only for
August
seamlessly implementing current and in pursuit of academic excellence,
children of permitted workers.
future initiatives, I am very pleased to renowned wellbeing programs and
7 August The Shelford Virtual House Challenge is launched, with
advise that the leadership team and I are the establishment of a multitude of
students from Prep to Year 12 completing tasks remotely to win
points for their House. working with an external expert, Dr Helen experiences and opportunities that
Goode, who has extensive educational support the holistic development of
29 August The new cases of COVID-19 detected in 24 hours across
Australia drops below 100, the majority of which remain in Victoria. and change experience as well as a PhD all our girls. Already, we have Digitech
in Principal Leadership (goodeconsulting. and Technology in the curriculum and Katrina Brennan
6 September The Victorian Government com.au). a Digitech room for this purpose; an Principal
releases a five-step roadmap to re-opening,
expansion of the Year 9 Challenge
dependent on case numbers and contact I bring to the table many years of
Program into areas of Enterprise and
September
tracing. experience in girls’ education, a strong
Innovation, Arts and STEM; a Year 5 to 8
14 September The Year 9 Enterprise and advocacy for girls’ education, and a
Innovation Challenge week launches.
STEAM week of diverse activities; and an
capacity to develop staff and establish
improvement of our facilities.
27 September The curfew is lifted, a culture of professional learning and
childcare resumes and limited public growth. I am excited about the future These initiatives provide for the
gatherings are allowed. Picnics in local as we leave behind a very challenging development of skills and capabilities that
5 October The Early Learning Centre recommences regular parks become a common sight.
year, in so many ways. I have a strong our girls need in this changing world and
operations.
desire to position Shelford as a future- allow for experiential, engaging student-
7 October VCE students complete the General Achievement Test focused, innovative school, with a strong centred learning and spaces that provide
on campus.
community in which individuals are opportunities for programs and student
12 October Prep to Year 7 and Year 10 to 12 students resume respected and valued; the very essence of recreation. We can all look forward to a
October
face-to-face lessons onsite at Shelford. Year 8 and 9 students
Shelford values. very exciting and progressive 2021.
continue with remote learning. The Hood canteen is open for
students and staff onsite.
24 October Victoria currently has 98 active cases statewide,
dropping below 100 for the first time since June.
26 October Zero new cases and zero deaths are recorded in
Victoria, being labelled the first ‘doughnut day’ since June.
Year 8 and 9 students return to onsite learning.
Director of Student Wellbeing and Development, Prep to Year 12
In 2021 we welcome Ms Pauline Pauline has a Masters of Education Pauline has expertise, warmth and
1 November Australia announces its first Cutajar to the role of Director of in Human Resource Management experience. We know she will be able
November
day of zero cases of community transition
Student Wellbeing and Development and Marketing in Education and a to create a wellbeing and leadership
nationwide in nearly five months.
for Prep to Year 12. Pauline was Post Graduate Diploma in Education program for Shelford that will help our
15 November Case numbers in Australia
previously the Deputy Principal, Studies, Student Welfare, both from girls to have the skills and tools they
jump up as a small outbreak in Adelaide is
identified. Wellbeing and Development at St the University of Melbourne, along need to be resilient, courageous young
Aloysius College in North Melbourne with a Bachelor of Education (Arts). women. Being a whole-school role will
(an all girls Catholic school). She has In her former role Pauline organised enable a shared language, approach
over 30 years’ experience in a variety many activities and programs and and resources, staff development
of school leadership positions in girls’ devised, implemented and reviewed a opportunities, mentoring programs
schools. Pauline is passionate about bespoke wellbeing program, transition and student leadership opportunities,
student wellbeing and particularly, programs and a student leadership which are exciting for all of our
December
girls’ development. program. community.
4 December Term 4 concludes, ending
one of Shelford’s most unique and
challenging school years.
Cover photo: Our new Director of Student Wellbeing and Development, Pauline
Cutajar (left), is pictured with Deputy Principal, Staff and Operations, Karen Whelan
and Deputy Principal, Curriculum and Innovation, Dan Belluz.
1
QUAERITE | Summer 2020–2021
COVID-19 update
Whilst the Shelford community – along with the rest of
Australia – may have thought the worst of the pandemic Operation ’re-entry’ Remote Learning in the Interview with Adam Boylett
was over by mid year, the second half of 2020 continued to After spending Junior Discovery Centre
What is your role at Shelford? using breakout
provide challenges and surprises. almost all of Term
Prep to Year 2 students and their parents I am the Head of Science. rooms while online
3 remote learning, became personal
embraced remote learning, especially
Education at Shelford has taken on more new forms than ever, whilst maintaining many students What do you think are the most favourites.
during the second lockdown. Students
our values of respect, creativity, passion and integrity. From Junior School computer and staff were important attributes of a teacher?
attended daily live literacy, numeracy,
coding sessions to Senior School virtual debating, Shelford girls have demonstrated very excited to be I believe the most important How have
returning to onsite
inquiry and specialist lessons, often
their passion and commitment to learning. Key achievements to celebrate include attributes for a teacher – besides a students shown
classes in Term 4. accompanied by their pets! They
Year 6 student Lucy being awarded a medal for the highest Shelford student score in passion to teach – is to have strong resilience in your classroom?
Melbournians had quickly navigated the school’s Learning
the Maths Olympiad competition, Year 11 students Veronica and Cara attending the communication skills. It is one thing to With sudden jumps between remote
lived through one Management System and email to access have a passion, it is something entirely and onsite learning the girls were
2020 Australian Olympic Change-Maker Award virtual summit and Year 12 student
of the toughest lockdowns to date and learning tasks. The girls used alternative different when a teacher is able to share impressively adaptable and flexible.
Tia receiving the Glen Eira Award for her leadership and community involvement. Our
despite school continuing online, many of concrete materials to manipulate numbers and express their passion in a way that They have consistently been willing to
students, staff and families have shown resilience and camaraderie, working together to
our students were bursting with excitement and model mathematical stories, such as can inspire and challenge new minds. engage in classes online, ask questions
get through these difficult times.
to see their friends in person. dried pasta, Ooshies, erasers, bottle tops, and share their thoughts. It has been a
beads and more. They created hopscotch How much time did you spend in the challenge too for most of us as adults,
Yet for some students, returning to campus courses to practise skip counting and classroom this year? and I can’t help but reflect on what I
Debating and public speaking life generated a great deal of anxiety and create number equations. Flipgrid proved Every day I have been in a ‘classroom’ was like as a teenager and wonder if I
nervousness leading up to Monday 12 be it physically onsite or in a virtual
to be a popular platform for students to could have coped as well as our girls
Like everything else in 2020, it was a strange year for debating. After an exciting first October 2020. Attending school during classroom working with Year 8 Science
record themselves reading. have. The students have also been very
round of face-to-face debates, the Debating Association of Victoria (DAV) were forced a pandemic brings up questions from, students and VCE Chemistry students. supportive of each other – providing
to move the interschool competitions online. Given the excessive hours of screen time ’How do I reconnect with my friends whilst Foundation students celebrated 100 days technical assistance when a friend
in their lives, most of our team opted out of the new virtual format. However, our Year maintaining social distancing?’ to ’Wearing of school and enjoyed virtual excursions How did you shift your 2020 goals
was having issues and being pillars of
11 team comprising of Estie Feith, Isla Clarke, Yasmin Isaacs and Catherine Maticka, masks all day is not comfortable and to various zoos. Year 1 and 2 students due to the changing teaching
strength for each other when one was
persevered through lockdown and experienced an impressive winning streak, taking makes me feel uneasy, when will Victorians experienced cooking such as making fairy circumstances?
having a difficult time. The VCE girls
them through to the Quarter Finals. A special mention also goes out to our Year 10 team be able to stop wearing masks?’. As we bread and chocolate balls, as part of the My goals did not particularly shift, as
have really pulled together to help their
(Eleanor Prowd, Holly Husband, Ananya Puranam Sivam and Dishita Garg) who were moved closer to our return to campus procedural writing component of Literacy. my main aim has always been to inspire
peers in the lead up to exams. I am
unbeaten in the first lockdown, but unfortunately unable to participate in the later rounds. date it became apparent there were two young minds and provide them with
Year 2 learnt basic programming skills by extremely proud of them all.
common concerns for some students: opportunities to grow and understand
When the Junior Secondary DAV program launched in Term 3, Shelford entered a Year 7 participating in ‘An Hour of Code’ lessons.
COVID-19 safety and friendship changes. the scientific world around them. What have you appreciated about
and 8 team, with great success. Their commitment to effort and excellence was impressive,
Some students were concerned about All girls celebrated the end of remote What did change was how I maintained returning to teaching on campus?
with a standout moment being when the Year 8 team (comprising of Wendy Zhao, Thanya
shifts in friendship dynamics during learning by putting on their dancing shoes this goal. Teaching a class is more than Seeing the girls has been the best. We
Vijayakumar, Polly Vakrinos, Finley Rowe and Shakira El-Sheikh) gave up their free time on
remote learning and some just really and having a disco, where they displayed just lecturing and having students write go into teaching to work with students.
‘Pop Up Day’ to run a practice debate with the Year 7s and share some tips. The Year 7s
(Bella Armstrong, Millie Dee, Stephanie Doliantis, Shreya Janumpally and Ashani Martyn) missed hanging out together – and their creative dance moves to some notes. Promoting class discussion in a Even though the students were amazing
hoped their friends missed them as much of their favourite songs. The teachers virtual world and designing hands-on during remote learning, it will never
relished the opportunity, and their preparation paid off, leading to a win. Despite the
as they did. Temperature checking and are very proud of the way students activities that students can do at home quite replace the joy and interaction
physical distance, a genuine sense of camaraderie was forged across year levels during the
frequent hand sanitising became a regular participated and coped during the remote was the biggest challenge. Building that you get to experience when
debating season that bodes well for burgeoning participation in 2021.
feature of school life when on-campus learning period, and are so grateful to be models with what was in the home and working face-to-face to help them learn.
Three of our Year 9 students, Nikki Higgins, Georgia Kent and Alice Cegarra-Fenton also learning returned. Ensuring a COVIDSafe back in the classroom.
entered the DAV online Public Speaking competition, with Nikki making it through to the environment was paramount and after such
final round. an exhausting period of lockdown, the
Shelford community were keen to uphold
COVIDSafe standards.
Shelford staff managed the transition
back to face-to-face learning with student
wellbeing at the forefront of all planning
and preparation. Once the girls walked
through the School gates after months of
remote learning, for most it was a relief
to finally see their friends and teachers
in person. Resuming old habits that were
once routine, such as using your School
locker, ordering food from The Hood and
sharing lunchtime with friends became
delightful moments. The silver lining of our
lockdown experience has been a lasting
sense of gratitude for the simplest things
in life.
Jacqui Green, School Psychologist
2 3
QUAERITE | Summer 2020–2021
Class of 2020
A year to remember Year 12 Award winners
VCE results
Every Year 12 cohort deserves The Caryl Haslem OAM Award
Caryl was a former School Captain (1959). Congratulations to our Class of 2020 on their outstanding VCE results.
a warm send off and end of This award is for a student who takes the
The students of 2020 have made history, completing Year 12 during a
year events, but the Class opportunity that a good Shelford education
offers – using one’s talents to the fullest worldwide pandemic and two periods of remote learning. They have
of 2020 are particularly in all facets of Shelford school life, a managed their most challenging academic year at a time when Melbourne
deserving of our well wishes dedication to truth, courage, kindness and experienced a lockdown that was the longest and toughest in the world.
and celebration. They have unselfishness and a keen interest in others.
To say that they were resilient and courageous is an understatement. These
The 2020 recipient was Mary Gashi.
faced their assessments girls have shown maturity beyond their years, coping skills beyond measure
and changing learning Principal’s Award for the Best and fierce bravery. They have worked together as a cohort and collaborated
All-Rounder with their teachers, in a productive and meaningful way.
circumstances valiantly, This award is determined by Ms Katrina
We thank the staff whose talent, dedication and encouragement have
leading the younger students Brennan and highlights a student who
has demonstrated excellence in all facets contributed to these outstanding results. They went above and beyond
by example. The Senior of school life, including an exemplary during the most challenging year in recent memory and for that, we are
School Co-Captains Lucy academic record, active contribution to incredibly grateful.
and Jodi thanked the school school programs and a keen supporter for
Katrina Brennan, Principal
you can bring to my day is something those around them. The 2020 recipient was
community in their farewell that I will always treasure. Whether it is Elise McLeod.
speeches and reflected on ‘This was always destined to be a unique
conversations about sport such as the Dux of the School is Elise McLeod with an ATAR of 99.5.
and special group of young women, Board of Governors’ Leadership Award
their penultimate year. I just had not anticipated how very
cricket or footy, talking about movies or
This award recognises a student who has Proxime Accessit to the Dux is Fanghui Li with an ATAR of 98.5.
current reality TV shows or just our daily
unique their Year 12 experience would displayed the characteristics of a Shelford
conversations about our weekends in Other very high achievers include:
‘This year was harder than any be. I have watched with immense pride
class or in the yard; it is something I will
woman, displays excellence in all they do
as the Class of 2020 navigated the and leads others formally and informally. Mary Gashi (97.65)
other. It was easier to slack off miss from you all next year. Good luck The 2020 recipient was Charlotte Adlard. Madeline Duker (97.5)
normal challenges of VCE, as well as the
and end up in a place with no with your exams and all the best for 2021.’
added pressures of 2020 with resilience, Yingying Zhong (97.25)
Civics and Citizenship Award
motivation. I did recognise dedication, a desire to learn, grow and − Lee Dalton, Psychology Teacher
This award recognises the civic achievement
Jodi Pang (97.1)
develop, and a willingness to better Elizabeth Thawley (97.05)
though, the level of support themselves. But also, with the attributes
and outstanding contribution of a Year 12
student to her school and her community. Linlin Meng (96.8)
we have created in our group. we would hope a graduate of Shelford
This student plays an active role in the Li Dong Xu (96.7)
It’s funny to think about us would possess, a wonderful sense of School and wider community through Luwei Lin (96.65)
care, a desire to provide strength to one Amy Ferris (96.2)
being closer after having another, and an ability to be honest –
activities including artistic, sporting,
community service and other activities. The Daena Karamountzos (96.05),
spent the year at home, but sometimes too honest – and open in their 2020 recipient was Daena Karamountzos Charlotte Read (95.65)
I am definitely more grateful communication.’
Xinwen Cao (95.6)
ADF Future Innovators Award
this year for the friendships I – Bec Wright, Year 12 Coordinator This award recognises the ability of
Amy Badger (95.35)
Tahlia-Lilly Reisacher (95.25)
have. While it is sad that the a student to demonstrate innovation
Xinran Du (94.55)
and learning in Science, Technology,
year has ended like this, I ‘To the 2020 cohort, I will never forget Engineering and Maths and encourages Lilia Capone (94.2)
know the rest of you are able you. One thing that stands out about you them to use their talents to pursue further Chenchen Xu (94.15)
all is that you know how to have fun, you research in these areas. The 2020 recipient Charlotte Adlard (93.7)
to think the same of your never take yourselves too seriously and was Eliza Thawley. Penelope Tzikas (93.5)
friendships and how far we’ve your kindness towards one another never Shantelle O’Shea (93.3)
come since the start of the ceases to amaze me. The bonds you have Co-Captains Awards Lucy McConville (92.3)
made at Shelford will stay with you for These awards recognise the important
year.’ Baoping Wen (91.65) Elise McLeod
life. You are an incredible group of young contribution the Co-Captains have made
Joanna Giannis (90.85)
adults and I cannot wait to hear about to the Shelford community. The 2020
Xinran Yu (90.8)
Our staff, students and wider your crazy adventures and life beyond the recipients were Jodi Pang and Lucy
Annabelle Griplas (90.7).
gates of Hood Crescent.’ McConville.
community wish the class
3% of our students received an ATAR over 98.
of 2020 the best in their – Una Alagic, Head of Humanities Service to Music Award: The inaugural
Mason–McQuarrie Award 24% of our students received an ATAR over 95.
future endeavours, and have This award recognises a student who
provided some tributes on has made a significant contribution to 41% of our students received an ATAR over 90.
‘To my Psychology classes; I have not
the musical life of the School through
this page. stopped enjoying your presence whether
commitment and service throughout her
68% of our students received ATAR scores above 80 placing them in the
it has been in school or online. You girls top 20% of students across Australia.
are the reason why I teach. The joy that school years. The 2020 recipient was Alex
Cornelius.
4 5
QUAERITE | Summer 2020–2021
Staff news
Claire Cheeseman, Gary Grach, Goodbye to Jean and Greg Farewell Tania
Chaplain Careers Counsellor We said good bye to Jean For 19 years
McQuarrie and Greg Mason at Tania Whitehead
Shelfordian from the Class of 2017, Gary’s excellent careers advice and
connection with students has been
the end of 2020, wishing Greg has been a
Claire Cheeseman is currently studying
evident over his 22 years at Shelford. good luck in his PhD studies and familiar face
a Bachelor of Science and Commerce
His work with our students in subject sending a warm farewell to Jean and a much-
at Deakin University, majoring in
and course selection is reflected each as she begins her well-deserved loved member
Environmental Science and Agricultural
year in excellent VCE results and the retirement. Both Jean and Greg of the Shelford
Economics. She has recently taken up the
fact students obtain entry in to tertiary have played integral roles in the community.
role as Shelford Chaplain.
courses of their choice. School’s Music and Performing Arts She started as
departments over the past decades. Deputy Head of
In 2021 he will be making a tree change with some offering innovative ‘Virtual Open From perfectly timed presentation Junior School
to Daylesford and moving to a mentoring Days’ this year in lieu of campus visits. This evenings to joyous Junior School – Curriculum,
and guest speaking role at the School. We technology was not available when I first musicals, they have worked hard on stage and behind the scenes. a Year 6 homeroom teacher and Year 5
will miss having him in the library every day started in this role.
but look forward to continuing to use his and 6 cluster leader, and spent nearly 12
Greg is a delightful presence in the lives of our Junior School students, as he engages
wisdom in new ways. The other thing that’s changed is the job years as the Head of Junior School.
them in their music performance and appreciation and ignites their passion for the
and tertiary market. In Victoria there are an
performing arts. He is a talented pianist and has played at countless musicals and A passionate teacher, with a natural and
What was your favourite part of your job? enormous number of tertiary options and
presentations. strong connection to young people,
The intrinsic rewards from being a school vocational pathway options available today.
careers counsellor are enormous. Helping In my role I’m really excited to help break Jean has made an exceptional contribution to the Music and Performing Arts area of Tania has made a long and valuable
students to find tertiary courses and explore down this information to help students find Shelford for 25 years. She is a renowned music educator, who is passionate, committed contribution to the School. She has
career options that suit their passions and the pathway that best suits them. and organised. Her VCE students and their exemplary results are testament to her fostered a love of learning in all that
strengths gives me great satisfaction. abilities, experience and strong connection with them. she does, and has been instrumental
I think it is important for students to
In Year 12 I was curious about faith and in setting up many of the signature
It’s always a joy to reunite with Shelford girls remember that if they don’t get into
Staff members and students past and present thank Greg and Jean for their time and programs in the Junior School. Her
decided I wanted to learn more about it. at the various school reunions. I love hearing their dream tertiary course straight away
care as educators. creation of our Junior Discovery Centre
I went along to the Mustard lunchtime their success stories or what they have been that there are many excellent alternative
group and asked any question I could doing since leaving school both in life and pathway options available that can help the (JDC) has been recognised as a leading
think of, determined to work out why their careers. I find this endlessly rewarding. student reach their goals. exponent of Early Years education.
so many people believed in Christianity After a brief period of long service
How did your role change over time? The most important piece of advice you
and convince myself it wasn’t for me. leave, Tania left Shelford at the end of
I came to Shelford over 22 years ago from give to students seeking career advice?
By the end of the year however, I had 2020. She looks forward to sharing her
the business sector. You could tell right away You are more than your ATAR score. Keep
found so much peace and clarity in the knowledge and enhancing her skills in
this was a truly nurturing environment. Since an open mind, find your passion and do
true teachings of Jesus. I think faith is another educational institution. We all
then I’ve been blessed with many wonderful your research (such as through attending
incredibly important for the modern wish Tania the best with her future and
experiences and colourful students, so that Open Days or other career events that are
world. We have so many challenging hasn’t changed. thank her for her outstanding legacy.
promoted).
issues facing us, and for the younger
generations a lot of pressure to ‘fix’ the One change I have noticed is educational It’s good to remember the workplace of
We asked Tania what the highlights
world. Having hope in God helps me to technology. Over the past few months the future is constantly evolving and many
were of her time at Shelford.
feel I can make a difference and a change the pandemic has seen this play out. I future jobs don’t even exist yet. Ensuring
‘Going on school camps and getting
commend all parents, students and teachers their skill base continuously develops, like
for the better. to know students and staff in a totally
who have embraced and pivoted with us communication and problem-solving skills
My role as the School Chaplain is very on new technologies, such as Microsoft
different environment. Watching the
will stand them in good stead to tackle
centered around student wellbeing and Teams. Universities too have been pivoting future opportunities as they arise.
students face their fears, challenge
social justice. In Senior School Chapel we themselves and grow!
have been looking at Black Lives Matter ‘Watching School productions and HPA
and our own privilege. Junior School performances. I was always overwhelmed
this term has looked at kindness and Baby news and in awe of the amazingly talented
mindfulness. I have continued to help the students we have in the Junior School.
We are delighted to announce
Mustard lunchtime group that sparked my
the arrival of longstanding art ‘Digging ditches with the sandpit shovels
own faith, and I have also been writing
teacher Rebecca Saunders’ outside the JDC when the pipes were
some blog posts answering key questions
third child. Grace Elizabeth was flooding due to extensive rains with Polly
on Christianity. I check-in weekly with all
delivered in the morning on Flanagan. Yes, we are very hands-on!
VCE students via a wellbeing email and
Saturday 19 September. Born at
have plans to start up a lunchtime group ‘Organising and being part of special
just under 4kg she is healthy and
focused around social justice once we all days to support and develop the
growing up quickly already. Grace
get back to school. Everyone at Shelford community spirit. Such as the Year 6
is going to be very protected by
has been very warm and welcoming, event, Grandparent’s, Mother’s and
her two older brothers who fell in
especially many of my previous teachers. Father’s Day celebrations and sports
love the moment they met her.
Overall, it’s been a great experience days.’
coming back as a staff member.
6 7
QUAERITE | Summer 2020–2021
Goodbye ELC Student art and writing
The closing of the Early Learning Centre has been a difficult
decision, but one that will make way for new opportunities for
Shelford students, and see the School into its next exciting
phase. The ELC has contributed greatly to the Shelford
community over the years, and we thank all past staff, parents
and students for the role they played in its success. The Early
Learning Centre was opened by the Mayor of Caulfield on
7 November 1993, and has seen many changes in the School
grounds and community.
Over its 27-year existence the ELC has a wide range of suburbs and
had four dedicated and inspiring directors backgrounds, and often stayed in touch
– Phillipa Gillet, Vivian Polak, Barbara with staff members after their children left.
Jolly and Paulette Maskell. These women Many of the staff have enjoyed bumping
fostered kindness and creativity whilst into past ELC community members, and
maintaining the highest of educational are always astounded to see how quickly
standards. the children grow up and become clever Jessica Guan, Year 9 Josie Juan, Year 6
young adults.
After working in the ELC for six years,
and leading a team of 18 staff, Paulette The quality of the ELC education
remarks on the high quality of educators was a testament to the excellent
Soar
and the longstanding relationships they staff, evidenced not only by official “Three, two, one.” Mara whispered and again. He heard a sound and looked up.
formed with families. Educator Judy achievements and awards, but full launched the plane as far as she could. Lots of aircrafts were flying in the sky and
Farugia had worked across all rooms of waiting lists and word-of-mouth She thought the plane was flying but the boy put his hand up, he longed to be
the Centre during her 13 years there, and recommendations. In 2016 and 2017 then her hopes were dashed as the plane with them. He looked at her, fell over and
enjoyed the close bonds formed between the Shelford ELC was recognised as plummeted to the ground. She closed picked up the pencil to protect himself.
staff members in a small school setting. exceeding expectations in all areas her eyes and turned away as the plane
The ELC community would also like to pay of the National Quality Standards, an He had given Mara an idea. She took
crashed. She cringed at the sound. Her
their respect to two amazing educators independent review of education and some pencils and stuck tape to the
posture sank as she walked towards the
who were lost to illness – Cheryl Broderick care services. This was an excellent pencils to make wings. A few minutes
square picnic table. She looked at her
and Julie Green – and thank them for the achievement in such a competitive later, the aircraft had a few substitute
design with failure in her eyes. Suddenly,
legacy they left. industry. Well over 100 families came wings. “Three, two, one!” She pulled the
a gust of wind blew by and her design
through the ELC gates per year, with string and the propeller came off! It rolled
Many kids have grown and played at nearly flew away! She held on tight to the
full sets of siblings often attending over towards the plane that she had crashed
the ELC; from staff members’ children to precious piece of paper. After the wind
several years. Whichever school the ELC earlier in the day; this gave Mara another
girls who would stay at Shelford all the blew away, she pushed her design onto
childern ended up at, their Prep teachers idea. Mara took the plane and stuck it to
way to Year 12. Senior and Junior School the grass. She put her head in her hands.
would always comment on how well- the aircraft. “Three, two, one!” He was
staff have loved knowing their children Mara jumped as a strange, little, blue bag flying!! “AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!”
prepared they were. Their listening and
are nearby and in safe hands. Paulette hit her head and bounced onto the table.
concentration skills stood out amongst The boy fell to the ground, rubbing his
says that the Shelford ELC had ‘the most Her eyes widened as she felt her head. Angelique Hicklin, Year 9
the rest, which longstanding educator head, when a sound made him look
lovely parent group’ who supported the Mara leaned back in surprise as a mini
Judy took much pride in. around. He saw his squadron flying away
staff throughout the COVID-19 lockdown aircraft zoomed out of control, heading
by sending gifts and messages of Despite being on a different schedule to without him and it was nearly sunset. He
right for the tree next to the table. She
encouragement. The families came from the rest of the School, the ELC made the buried his hands in his knees as he wiped
was even more shocked when a tiny boy
most of the broader knowledge base at away a tear. Mara slumped against a rock,
climbed out of the aircraft and ran to the
Shelford. They often collaborated with defeated at last. Her design blew over. It
bag, which was as big as him. He stopped
Sally and Peter in the library, and joined gave her another idea. She tied some old
when he saw her and gasped. Mara
in on Sports activities. Many Junior and designs to the aircraft. The boy was very
opened her mouth and gasped too. The
Senior School students will remember nervous as he said, “Three, two, one.” He
small boy picked up the pencil with the
seeing the tiny kinder kids walking was flying, flying!
lead facing her. He vaulted over the bag
through the school holding hands on their and jabbed the pencil. When it was dark, he opened his bag
way to the library – a sight which always and produced a star. He launched the
brought a smile to their faces. With her mouth still open, Mara grabbed
star into the dark sky. As she packed up,
her iPhone and took a snapshot. He
The Shelford Early Learning Centre has Mara started to wonder why one star was
quickly tried to grab the bag when she
much to be proud of and reflect fondly flashing. In no time, she understood. Mara
wasn’t watching and pulled it towards his
on as we close this chapter of our history. smiled to herself.
plane. The boy tipped the plane over and
We thank the ELC staff and community for the propeller fell off. He rushed towards Jocelyn Juan, Year 4
their hard work and kind spirit, and look it, picked up a piece and put it down Caitlin Dubar, Year 3
forward to the next stage for Shelford.
8 9
QUAERITE | Summer 2020–2021
Student art and writing
Words
They envelop me,
Seeping through my pores.
I am somehow floating yet plunging
further.
My eyes are closed. A failed attempt at
preventing the pain.
And then I am submerged.
The world is silenced and still
The last few bubbles escape my mouth,
A final weak cry for help.
Like an ocean, I am pulled deeper
Until there is nothing between me and the
words.
Iris Zhang, Year 8 Rachel Hutchinson, Year 12
Maggie Roberts, Year 9
Highly Commended in My Brother Jack
Benson’s girl Awards, Junior Secondary Poetry
Bright sunlight trickled through swaying the animal was a friend. A girl, barely Zoe Kovac, Year 5
gumtrees. Gnarled Paperbarks stood, thirteen, delicately placed each foot,
restless, their tan coloured coats flaking wary of snakes. Her hair was short,
in a gentle breeze. Kookaburras, kings blonde, cut from slicing her swiss army
Elena Langridge, Year 9
of the bush, swollen, creamy chests knife. She was barefoot, her sheep-skin
laughing out songs. Below, a marbled shoes carefully placed beside a kettle,
gecko closed his eyes to shield them flint and steel and brown dryzabone coat
from the rays hitting his rocky perch. His inside a leather backpack, slung across
tough skin, golden and flecked in brown her sturdy shoulders. The brumbies
lifted slightly with each quick breath. The stayed placid, some still blowing bubbles
choir of birds were suddenly silenced, in the pond, some choosing to chew
gecko was gone, a flash of whipping at the thick grass. She did not speak
tail disappearing into cracked rock. The aloud, but instead placed a firm hand
rifle had sounded from the west, loud, on the dun’s shoulder, indicating they
unnatural and ugly. Shouts were heard by needed to move. He did not question
the ears of invisible wildlife. The shooters her but instead kneeled down, letting
were distant but heavily impacted the her slide onto his silken back. The herd
Viv Smythe, Year 4
peace. Land rovers crushed summer- slowly gathered speed, racing into the
dried ferns and cracked the hard red gathering dusk.
earth. They were searching for brumbies.
The hunters crowded the clues, they Lydia Ballester, Year 9
The shot had been fired at a magpie, for
had found manure and hoof prints.
fun, no brumbies yet. The cars kicked Tahlia-Lilly Reisacher, Year 12
But what they had not expected was
up dust and disappeared, sound slowly
the tracks of human, etched into mud
erasing.
beside a murky pool. A weathered faced Fire is new Australia
Twitching tails flicked at flies. Buckskin, man, smooth Italian rifle hitched on his Gumtree to small Azalea
roan and bay mares nursed their foals. back, questioned the group “Who is It is all alit on fire
The foals were gangly and thin. Their this person? Out here, running with the Our precious country is dryer Nikki Higgins, Year 9
mother’s manes were thick and glossy, brumbies?!” a woman spoke beside
From the grey, dark, smokey sky
heavy flanks heaved with each intake of a small campfire, her face hidden by
To the orange flames reaching high
warm air. A dun stallion led them across the shadows of an akubra,” She, is the
Red, blue screaming sirens
wiry grass towards a pond, announced by Benson’s daughter, disappeared a few
Watching the orange horizon
the din of croaking frogs. Hooves tripped years back” “why?” Italian rifle asked,
as the rush for water began. Splashing “The people started culling, brumbies The lives lost saving the land
through, chest-deep in muddy water they became the enemy, she knew otherwise.” As the fires quickly expand
drank. As they sieved water through their The matter of the child was closed. It is a nightmare that flashes
teeth, the stallion stood, sweating neck
The girl, Michelle Benson, was keeping Animals turning extinct
arched, ears flicking at every small noise.
the brumbies moving. Further still, into Our country may not be distinct
He tensed, hearing the steadily cracking
the snow-capped mountains. Most caused by bad climate change
twigs, an animal approached. His cream
This is extremely deranged
coat outlined every taught muscle, then Rosie Davies, Year 9
he relaxed with a twitch of his nostrils, Daisy Martin, Year 5 Rebecca Huang, Year 10 Georgia Thomas, Year 9 Daena Karamountzos, Year 12
10 11
QUAERITE | Summer 2020–2021
Student art and writing Book Week
Summer We can squeeze six people under The timing of Book Week, aptly themed, Curious Creatures, Five days of literary
umbrellas on the way to class, but today
We invent ways to keep cool on we can’t huddle together anymore.
Wild Minds could not have been better. It coincided with cooking inspiration
40-degree days. our second week back onsite after many months of remote
Instead of the scrunchies adorning our For Book Week the English Faculty brought
During recess and lunch, exhausted from hastily brushed hair, we compare the learning, and everyone relished the opportunity to celebrate us five days of literary cooking inspiration
doing nothing but breathing, we make patterns on our cloth masks. the enduring power of storytelling. From daily literary inspired on social media. Each day there was some
paper fans out of test revision notes, we background on a novel, a passage to read,
drench the ground with our drink bottles The navy blue of my ribbon matches the recipes to poetry writing workshops, and acclaimed (virtual) and links to recipes. Day 1 was boeuf
and lie on the cool concrete. police uniforms at the checkpoint we speakers, Book Week sparked creativity and wonder. en daube from Virginia Woolf’s To the
pass on the way home. Lighthouse, Day 2 gorgonzola sandwiches
Bathrooms with air conditioning become behalf, Heather for listening and writing
the most popular place in school. Reflections on Heather from James Joyce’s Ulysses, Day 3 brought
Spring her book and Sokolov for experiencing us clam chowder from Herman Melville’s
Morris’ virtual visit his past pain again. In the short time that Moby Dick, Day 4 was pickled limes from
Autumn At home, we angle our computer Heather spoke to us, she was able to draw Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women and on the
screens to not pick up on Instagram Heather Morris’ novel The us in to the emotional and difficult process final day madeleines from Marcel Proust’s
Brightly coloured leaves hide the opened in our hands, as we throw subtle Tattooist of Auschwitz of writing such a serious book that would Swann’s Way. We share the background on
concrete. winks towards the camera. emerged after many go on to be important for so many people. Day 3 with you here:
months of conversations Though we unfortunately could not meet in
Those of us with bottom lockers sweep It reminds us of how we would once On 29 June 1851 Herman
with her protagonist, person, the session was still very engaging
the ground with our feet before we sneakily take selfies at school, phones Melville wrote to his friend
Lale, and many trips to and enjoyable.
squat to put our bags away. supposedly turned off in our lockers. and hero, the great writer,
Maya Vijayakumar, Year 1 & Olive Dell, Year 6 see movies together.
Rosie Davies, Year 9 Nathanial Hawthorne:
It sounds like someone is constantly Oh no, the wi-fi really isn’t working, Although the story is a
eating a bag of chips. work of fiction, much of ‘Shall I send you a fin of
it’s totally not that we all woke up a
Lale’s firsthand experiences are described
Reflections on Clare the Whale by way of a
minute before class and spilt tea on the
The first tests of the year are coming up
keyboard. and his story of survival is very real. Joining Bowdich’s virtual visit specimen mouthful? The
and my friends and I study among piles us at Shelford, Heather spoke generously tail is not yet cooked –
of red, orange and yellow. One day, when it’s warm again outside, about her writing process and what has During Book Week we though the hell-fire in which the whole book
we will lie on the tiles beside our lockers. happened since her debut became a best were lucky enough to is broiled might not unreasonably have
If anyone coughs, they get weird looks.
seller. Heather’s presentation was funny and speak to writer, musician, cooked it all ere this.’ Melville’s description
More than 30 girls, side by side, eyes broadcaster and actor of his novel via a culinary analogy made
engaging, traits which are also evident in
Winter closed and chatting.
her books. Since meeting Lale, Heather has Clare Bowditch who Moby Dick an obvious choice for our Book
Lying on the orange slate, we will be become determined to share the stories of inspired us with her stories Week cooking project.
Rainy days mean our navy-blue blazers
invincible. Holocaust survivors and the sequel, Cilka’s and advice. Growing up
smell like wet dogs and rain droplets The novel tells the tale of Captain Ahab’s
Journey is again a bestseller. The Tattooist in Melbourne herself she
glisten against our armoury of badges. Meleri Leonard, Year 3 obsessive quest for revenge on Moby
Holly Husband, Year 10 of Auschwitz is being made into a six-part openly spoke to us about
Dick, a huge white sperm whale who
We crowd around my friend as she Takeover Melbourne winner television show – one of Heather’s most her life and all the difficulties she has faced
had bitten off his leg. Moby Dick isn’t
opens a classroom window, sneaking charming stories was of Lale insisting Brad in her youth and in her career. She talked
simply an adventure narrative. The novel
us all in to watch ‘90s rom-coms during Pitt was the only man handsome enough to us about the way she always knew that
draws together diverse literary genres,
lunch. to play his role. We were lucky to hear from she wanted to write and had a passion for
perspectives, and cultures, and includes
Heather and look forward to welcoming her music, constantly writing words, stories and
history, science, and philosophy. There is
back to Shelford in the future. songs in her countless journals. From there
also a good deal of humour and satire!
she followed her dream and turned it into
Julia Lloyd-Bruin, English Faculty Doug McClean, writing in The Atlantic, says
her reality inspiring us to do the same. We
of the novel: ‘It’s been called a whaling yarn,
learnt about her struggles with low self-
a theodicy, a Shakespeare-styled political
esteem after being bullied for her weight,
tragedy, an anatomy, a queer confessional,
eventually learning to appreciate every part
an environmentalist epic; because this
Sophia Lu, Year 9 of herself regardless of others critiques. We
novel seems to hold all the world, all these
also learnt about her process in writing her
readings are compatible and true.’
award-winning book Your Own Kind of Girl
with the message that you can be any and Food plays a major role in Moby Dick. In
every type of person you want to be. It was his wonderful essay ‘Whale as Dish’, Robert
such an honour to hear from her and an Tally explains: ‘Food plays a symbolic role
Heather Morris’ speech conveyed her experience we will remember. in Melville’s novel, constantly grounding the
passion and need to share an extraordinary metaphysical elaborations of the substance
story about the second world war; her of whaling in a material or physical plane
intimate conversations and the emotions of understanding.’ An entire chapter of
she began to understand from Sokolov. Moby Dick is taken up with a description of
Heather Morris is talented in writing but Ishamael and Queequeg’s meal of clam and
also in staying with Sokolov, helping him cod chowders.
through describing the difficult and tragic Read chapter 15 of Moby Dick while eating
memories he had. His experience during clam chowder. A suggested recipe: https://
the war began to unravel over many weeks, foodforhunters.blogspot.com/2012/04/try-
Ruby Lochhead, Year 7 Amelia Davies, Year 11 Linh Nguyen, Year 7 many hours of hard work on both of their pots-chowder.html
12 13
QUAERITE | Summer 2020–2021
News from around the School
Year 6 Graduation Felt hearts House Netball
The Year 6 Graduation celebration held on 24 November was a lovely way to Lucy, a new Year 6 student to Shelford Making the most of easing restrictions
commemorate the end of Junior School for our girls, but not the end of their time at in 2020 had the lovely idea of creating towards the end of Term 4, the Sport
Shelford for many, with a large portion of the cohort continuing on to Year 7 at the handmade mementos for the Year 12 faculty organised exciting House Netball
School. They each had a delicious pre-packed lunch and cupcake decorated in the students as good luck for their exams. competitions for our Year 5 and 6
School colours. The teachers and students reflected on the amazing achievements of the The tiny felt hearts were caringly crafted students, and Years 7 to 9. The girls loved
Year 6 girls and how much they’ve grown and learnt over the past years. The students in lockdown by the Year 6 girls and the chance to work together and get to
were also thrilled to receive their Year 6 hoodies in October which quickly became presented to the graduating year in a know students from other year levels in
remote learning staples. They are truly incredible young women ready to enter the next ceremony between periods of remote their House group, playing matches over
phase of their lives. learning. The older girls loved this several weeks.
chance to connect with the Year 6s and Final results of the Year 5 and 6
appreciated the effort and well wishes for competition were: Lloyd in first place,
their exams. followed by Thomas, Blundell and
Langley.
Rowing – back on the water
Final results of the Years 7 to 9 COVID restrictions inevitably presented challenges for all of our sporting teams,
competition were: Blundell (pictured) in however, the rowing squad – lead by Head Coach Julian Whitehead and 2020–2021
first place, followed by Langley, Thomas Captains of Boats Emily Lendon and Ruby Ashman-Cornish – adapted to the
and Lloyd. circumstances with ingenuity and enthusiasm. They were thrilled to get back on the
water in October and make the most of each moment they get together as a crew.
STEAM week
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths Week was a great success in Years
5–8, with students working in their House groups to complete physical and mental
challenges. A crowd favourite was creating ‘stomp rockets’ fashioned out of old soft
drink bottles and other found materials. The girls had to both create the rocket and
devise a method of measuring how high they could launch it. Other activities included
sewable circuits, escape rooms, Lego challenge and creative thinking blocks.
My Brother Jack Awards
For many years Shelford students have
Prep transition been recognised for their writing skills in
In November the Junior School staff were the Glen Eira My Brother Jack Awards.
lucky enough to meet some of the lovely With more than 600 entries submitted
new prep students for 2021. In their across eight short story and poetry
orientation sessions the children read the categories, it is a true testament to the
Junior School STEAM week story We’re going on a bear hunt, drew creativity of our students and support of
pictures of their Prep 2021 friends, and our English teachers that several girls won
The Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths week in the Junior School saw awards this year. Highlights include:
had an art lesson with Mrs Lewis inspired
our girls participate in a range of experiments and activities. For one learning task, the
by Matisse. We can’t wait to see how the Junior Secondary Short Story Category
Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2 students joined forces to create a ‘safe bed for an egg’.
girls settle into the School this year. First Prize: The quiet kid by Imogen
They needed to plan, gather materials and create a container to protect an egg from
cracking when dropped. The eggs were launched from the second storey near the IRC Gibson, Year 7
to squeals of delight and disgust! The Years 5 and 6 students engineered windmills, Highly Commended: When ‘it’ came to
made sound mobiles and used 3D printing to create a pencil holder. stay by Abbie McLeish, Year 7
Senior Secondary Poetry Category
First Prize: Greece by Stephanie
Kondopoulos, Year 10
Celebration hampers
Junior Secondary Poetry Category The Year 9 Food Studies students
Highly Commended: Words by Maggie have shown their creativity by creating
Roberts, Year 9 celebration hampers for the summer
holidays. The hampers included jam,
Primary Poetry Category lemon curd, almond and orange biscotti,
Highly Commended: Bushfires by Olivia shortbread and beautifully decorated fruit
Meszaros, Year 5 cakes to take home to their families.
14 15
QUAERITE | Summer 2020–2021
Enterprise Week Environment Week
Enterprise Week 2020 introduced the Year 9 students to being
an entrepreneur, with a focus on innovation and change.
Students participated in a number of workshops and training
sessions, working on problem-solving, creativity, financial and
digital literacy, critical thinking and presentation skills. The
students also collaborated to design, produce and present
their very own podcasts which we can’t wait to listen to!
provided us with the opportunity to create to our question on how she thought
Reflection by Elena Langridge Australia was doing in terms of innovation
podcasts about enterprise and business.
and Molly Reiger Our podcast was a reflection of some of the compared to other countries. She works
Though we had to complete Enterprise key takeaways from the Week and included closely with the Victorian Premier and the
Week remotely it was well-organised topics from business copyright to the effect Minister of Innovation (who makes sure
and successful in terms of the learning COVID-19 has had on small enterprises. Victoria is equipped to have a thriving
experience. We were lucky enough to start-up community and a great research
have two entrepreneurs with prosperous Reflection by Martha and development sector) – she said that in
businesses join us, as well as Grace Bird, short, we’re doing ok, but we’re not doing
advisor to the Minister of Innovation, plus
Stamatopoulos well enough. She explained how as a nation
the Tripod Team who ran many activities Enterprise Week was a unique experience we’ve had good economic growth and are
throughout the week. I enjoyed and learned a lot from. Although cruising along quite well so far, but as a
it was online, there were still many great result of this we don’t seem as motivated
Julia and Jordy Kay, founders of The Great activities that made the Week a captivating to take big risks. Grace also said she is very
Wrap, spoke to us about their reusable cling one. passionate about our nation’s need to relax
wrap that is compostable, biodegradable less, take more risks and innovate. It was an
and environmentally friendly. The Australian- Like most of my peers, one of the highlights
interesting observation I thought would be
made food wrap is made from plants and of the week were the Q&As with Julia Kay,
worth sharing.
breaks down into carbon and water in less co-founder of The Great Wrap, Grace Bird,
than 180 days. The product idea took many advisor to the Minister of Innovation, and
months to manufacture and the business Anthony Eisen, co-founder of the now Reflection by Lydia Ballester
faced many challenges along the way. highly successful company AfterPay. It was Throughout Enterprise Week we completed
great listening to these people who knew different activities linked to economics
Anthony Eisen, the founder of Afterpay, so much about the world of business and and business. Although there was a great
informed us about how our everyday simple enterprise. selection of activities, the main one was a
ideas can become futuristic goals. Anthony highlight – creating a podcast. We worked
started Afterpay with his neighbour after Some great lessons from Julia were to start
with a group called Tripod over two days to
having a conversation at their dinner table. small and test the market before starting
learn about making podcasts so we could
They came up with the concept together a business and releasing a new product;
create our own within small groups. They
and decided to first test the market to how an innovative design can start with
also took us through some personality and
see if buyers would use the system. They some simple research online; and to never
team building activities, such as taking a
also needed to ensure that businesses/ be afraid to ask around for help or advice.
personality quiz. This allowed us to work
companies would be involved. Over the Anthony also had a great answer to a
in our small groups more cohesively, as we
course of the Week, we learnt about the question about his values. Simply put, three
had insight into each other’s personalities,
expansion of small businesses and the key of his greatest values were to be brave, to
and could better assign roles in making the
aspects of a successful business. Anthony be grounded in reality, and to ‘enjoy the
podcast.
was the perfect example to support that all rocket ship’. He explained how business can
businesses have to start somewhere small. be tough sometimes, but we must always The podcast could be about any topic
remember to enjoy the journey or process related to economics. My group talked
The Tripod Team delivered an online course as well. about why it is harder for people in minority The aim of this Year 9 Challenge Week The students participated in a 10km walk their Sustainability Pitch. The girls went
about enterprise and real-world experiences groups to succeed as entrepreneurs and was for the students to recognise the to Elwood Beach and partook in a ‘Plog-a- above and beyond in their research, even
to equip us with the skills, tools and One other lesson I found interesting was an
some prominent entrepreneurs who are impact that each of us has on the thon’ (Clean up Australia). There has been interviewing the 2040 award-winning
knowledge for our future success. The Team observation Grace Bird shared in response
women of colour. Some key take away environment and therefore the individual a noticeable increase in rubbish around director Damon Gameau. On the last
points from this task were the experience responsibilities that come within our the neighbourhood and this was a great day, the finalist presented their ideas to a
of creating a podcast and finding effective community. The focus was to have a opportunity for the girls to do something panel of extra special guest judges who
compromises when working with very positive mindset about our impact and practical and physical. What could be selected the winning pitch. The successful
different people in one group. I also learned to continue striving to improve the world better than getting fitter by picking up group looked at improving Shelford’s
more about my group’s topic, which I around us. At the start of the week, each litter? This activity was followed by beach waste system, with a particular focus on
was happy about because the success of student made a simple pledge to do games as well as fish and chips on the paper recycling. In early 2021, Martha,
people of colour in the business place is their part. Working together with the beach before returning to School. Saskia, Dani, Joyce, Mary and Jovanna
not commonly talked about. The Week as Shelford Environment Group, the activities will present their ideas to the School
a whole made me more comfortable with The Sustainable Solutions enquiry project
for the week were designed to be fun, Board and work collaboratively to make
learning about economics, and increased spanned across the whole week. Each
educational and engaging. their project come to fruition.
how much I enjoy the subject in school. day the students had time to work on
16 17You can also read
