Term 2, Week 1 2024 - Welcome Back to Term 2 18 Apr 2024

Reflecting on Term 1, I am profoundly grateful for the tremendous welcome I received and for the enthusiastic participation in our centenary celebrations. It was a true celebration of brilliance; your spirit and commitment were the cornerstone of its success. I hope you enjoy the videos and photographs shared with our community in the coming weeks.

Term 2 promises to be another precious time of reconnection and activity. As always, we are excited to welcome back our alumnae for the many reunions planned at TC and beyond.

This week, I was delighted to meet members of the class of 1957, who come together regularly for a special luncheon and a walk down memory lane. These alumnae, all in their 80s now, reflect that ‘it’s as if they never left; they pick up where they left off.’ They spoke fondly of former Principal, Ms Feathestone, and of some high jinks and some minor misdemeanours with great gusto and laughter. They became animated, talking about their fond and not-so-fond memories of various teachers and expectations of school in the 1950s era.

The importance of reminiscing about these times cannot be underestimated, not just for the sense of nostalgia but also for recognising the lessons learned and the growth experienced. School is not merely a stage in life; for many, it profoundly influences who we become. Such reunions are a celebration of past times and a bridge to future collaborations, opportunities, and support. While students may leave their alma mater, the school upon the hill, they never truly leave the community that shaped them. ‘Once a Strathy Girl; always a Strathy Girl.’

Throughout Term Two, our community engagement continues with events like the upcoming Mother’s Day Lunch celebration and the much-anticipated Father-Daughter camp this weekend. These gatherings are not just fun; they’re fundamental to strengthening the bonds within our school family.

Our calendar is brimming with activities that cater to various interests and talents, promising an exciting and fulfilling Term 2. Get ready for the exhilaration of the Athletics Carnival, the much-anticipated School Musical, the challenge of the Kayaking Championships, spirited competition in Netball, and our special observances of ANZAC Day, to name a few. We are also introducing an array of new co-curricular opportunities this term, ensuring every student finds a way to engage that resonates deeply with them. We will share these with you in our Magnolia additions this term. Please visit the Students & Parents - Navigation Page on Maple for more information about what is happening and what is on offer throughout the year at Strathcona.

Let us not forget that Term 2, an eleven-week term, is also a critical time academically, particularly for our senior students. With examinations on the horizon and reports due, it is a pivotal time to take stock of our progress and set goals for the remainder of the year. It is a period to solidify foundations, extend understanding, and celebrate the growth that comes from learning. Taking the time to find balance, to rest, refresh, recharge and to ensure our health and wholebeing are also given due diligence is just as important.

As we step into this busy term, let us carry forward the momentum from our centenary celebrations and make this term another remarkable chapter in our school’s history. Here’s to a successful and fulfilling Term 2 for us all. Together, we are unstoppable.

Lorna Beegan
Principal

The Educator celebrates the best young teachers across the nation, distinguishing themselves with their commitment and passion. The Educator’s Rising Stars list, recognises professionals working in the K-12 education space aged under 35 who are able to demonstrate effective leadership, innovation, and achievement in their career to date.

Hannah and Georgia have shown exemplary leadership, a remarkable drive to make a difference, expertise, innovative teaching methods, and a clear vision. These are the essential qualities needed to thrive in the ever-changing education landscape.

As we venture into Term 2 of 2024, I wanted to take some time to flag some of the key dates for families to mark in their calendar for the opening few weeks:

We are looking forward to continuing to celebrate all aspects of this wonderful schooling experience with everyone throughout Term 2 and keep you updated with important dates in further Magnolia releases. I will also add to this as a reminder that our Co-Curricular Timetable for Term 2 is up and running! We encourage you to get involved in one or many of the clubs running at the times listed below.

Further information can be obtained through our Maple Co-Curricluar page by clicking here. If you have any questions please let Mrs Cameron know (ncameron@strathcona.vic.edu.au).

David Wyatt
Dean of Operations

The Easter break provided us all with a chance to step back from our daily routines and focus on what fills our cup. Whether we spent time with family and friends, pursued hobbies, or simply took time to rest and reflect. It's essential to recognise that these moments of relaxation are not only enjoyable but also crucial to manage the stressors of everyday life.

Our focus within Wholebeing this term delivered through our SOUL (Self, Others, Us, Love) and Feliciter programs and aligned with our Strategic Pillar of Connection, focuses on the theme of ‘Self’ and ‘Others’. Students across both Junior and Senior School will have the opportunity to enhance their social and emotional skills, to empower them to navigate challenging times, seek support when needed, and effectively manage their emotions.

Key topics explored this term across the school include:
- Leadership
- Gratitude
- Health and Wellbeing - sleep, nutrition and exercise
- Resilience and academic buoyancy
- Effective communication
- Character Strengths
- Service
- Cyber Safety
- Responsible decision-making
- Reconciliation
- Resolving conflict and seeking help
- Recognition and respect for others
- Active citizenship and collaboration
- Celebrating diversity
- Social awareness – kindness and empathy
- Relationship skills

By focusing on these areas, we aim to foster a school community where every individual feels supported, valued, and empowered to make a positive difference in the world around them.

A key component of Wholebeing at Strathcona is the connection and collaboration with our parent community and we are delighted that we could bring to you Dr Justin Coulson as a part of our Parent Seminar Series this term. We hope you can join us in Featherstone Hall for a practical presentation that incorporates the latest research in parenting science as well as studies of childhood development. Other topics covered include how to build resilience, foster self-esteem and recognise the signs of mental health concerns.

This seminar is free, and parents can register here.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Megan Boyd
Dean of Students

This term our Junior School focus is Sustainability. We explore this through a range of curriculum areas which means the students gain an understanding of Sustainability from a variety of perspectives – from sustainable business ideas to sustainable farming, food production and housing.

To begin our investigations, immersion activities have been carefully considered and there are many excursions and incursions taking place in the coming weeks. Prep and Year 1 are off to Hale Farm, Years 2 and 3 will be carefully observing the life cycle of a butterfly and hatching of chickens in their classrooms, Year 3 are off to Healesville Sanctuary, Year 4 make their way to CERES, Year 5 head to the Melbourne Zoo and Year 6 are going on a sustainable walking tour of Melbourne. It is such an exciting way to start the term and begin our inquiries into Sustainability.

Next week is our popular Dance incursion - so be sure to pop the famous showcase in your diaries for Friday 26 April 9am – 10am in the Gymnasium. I look forward to seeing you all there.

I look forward to seeing you all in the coming weeks.

Lisa Miller
Head of Junior School

This week, we welcomed back our wonderful students to TC and introduced two new members to our community: Olivia and Mr. Elliot, who will be replacing Ms. Rowlands for Term 2. During pastoral class this week, we took a moment to appreciate the fantastic achievements of Term 1. The TC team put together a short video capturing the highlights of the term, showcasing the wonderful experiences and growth of our students. Please see the video here

Camp to Campus
One of the standout events this term is our much-anticipated Camp to Campus adventure. In Week 6, our Year 9 girls will embark on a five-day journey from Warburton back to Tay Creggan, immersing themselves in a journey that traverses the land on foot, bike, and boat. During envision classes, students will map their route and learn about the Indigenous lands they'll be traveling through. If you have any questions or concerns about Camp to Campus, please don't hesitate to reach out. On Tuesday, May 14th, there will be a Parent Information Evening dedicated to Camp to Campus. On Friday, May 3rd, all students will participate in a camp preparation day. More details will follow on Maple closer to the date.

Envision Entrepreneurship
Following the camp, we'll dive into our entrepreneurship journey as part of Envision. Our partnership this year with Future Anything will empower our young minds to transform creativity and curiosity into innovative ideas that contribute positively to our world. Students will work in small groups to develop their business ideas, which will culminate in a showcase day in Term 3 (more details on this to come later in the term). Additionally, students have the exciting option to pitch their ideas for a spot on stage at the Future Anything Grand Final in Brisbane, where the winning team will receive over $10,000 worth of prizes.

And finally, don’t forget to mark your calendars for Week 3, when many of our Year 9 students will enchant us with their musical production of "Mary Poppins." I've already secured my tickets and am eagerly awaiting this showcase of our students' talents and creativity.

As we kick off Term 2, let's embrace the opportunities ahead and continue to support each other in our TC journey. If you have any questions or need assistance throughout the term, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Here's to a term filled with learning, growth, and memorable experiences!

Jen Buchanan
Head of Tay Creggan

Our Year 9 Campus TC gives our girls the opportunities to study and learn through our bespoke program Envision and creates a connected learning community through events such as those held last term. From scenic river cruises and delightful picnic lunches to kayaking adventures in PE and the demands of a thriving rowing program — each activity brought new energy and camaraderie among our TC community at Strathcona Girls. Our drama performance was a highlight, showcasing talent and creativity of our young people. We also celebrated special occasions like High Tea, welcoming family and friends, and our Head of Campus Jen Buchanan commemorated International Women's Day with stories from her time of living in Saudi Arabia. Festivities such as our vibrant Chinese New Year celebration, added a cultural richness to our experiences. And of course, who can forget the excitement and historical significance of the Tay Creggan Time Capsule Opening in our Centenary year.

You can watch the full video below

Another busy term ahead with community events which are tabled below.

Further details found below under Events in the Magnolia.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions – jwilson@strathcona.vic.edu.au.

I hope to see you soon.

Jo Wilson
Director of School and Community Relations

Through hertransformative adventures, Mary Poppins impacts the lives of the children andtheir parents.

Throughout the rehearsal process we have explored the production's themes, recognising that although life in 20th century London differs vastly from our world, Mary Poppins' encouragement to find joy in the everyday and to believe that ‘anything is possible’ still resonate today.

For tickets, please visit https://www.strathcona.vic.edu...

We are working on some special edition publications and digital promotion to help commemorate our Centenary year and capture the essence of our legacy, and we need YOU!If your family has a proud tradition of generations attending Strathcona (more than one generation), we would love you to join us for a special photoshoot on Friday 24 May from 9.00am – 11.00am. If you are able to attend, please RSVP here

Drawing from her rich experience as a journalist and author, Cathy meticulously worked with the school to craft 'A Century of Memories, A Future of Promise,' a captivating coffee-table book that showcases Strathcona's evolution.

From its modest beginnings in a Victorian villa in Scott Street, Canterbury, to its contemporary cutting-edge facilities across three eastern suburbs campuses, the book's abundant photographs and moving narratives capture the essence of Strathcona's story, celebrating a century of educational excellence, unstoppable women and memories.

The book along with other unique Centenary merchandise is available to purchase from our website here.

“I’m delighted to have joined Strathcona Girls Grammar this year, as 2024 marks the school’s 100th year of developing intellectually curious, optimistic, and life-ready young women,”

You can access the full article here

“Strathcona has always been an energised and dynamic place for girls to learn, and the women we educate have the power and responsibility to contribute to the world they live in,”

You can read the full article here

Jess Mitton, Head of House at Strathcona offered insight into Strathcona’s Wholebeing strategy and how Strathcona supports students to successfully balance their commitments and academic studies.

You can read the full article here

“The Wholebeing program is being taught as a timetabled class this year and it involves three main concepts: wellbeing, ill-being and resilience. We are trying to create a cultural shift in the wellbeing space, one that is embedded in the entire school, from early learning to Year 12. So, we call it a ‘whole school’ approach.”

You can read the full article here

The evening is a great opportunity to learn more about what’s involved, what to expect and meet some fellow ski/snowboard families! If you’re not sure whether snow sports is for you, we encourage everyone who is interested to come along!

Friends of Snowsports is a fun and welcoming community and we’d love to see you there!

$41 per person (including booking fee) for a banquet and please bring your favourite bottle of wine to share.

6.30pm for stand-up drinks to meet and greet, sitting down at 7pm for a delightful banquet

Numbers strictly limited so book now.

Tuesday 30 April 2024 6.30pm - 10.00pm
Chantra Thai 740 Riversdale Road, Camberwell Victoria 3124

RSVP here.

This is a lovely morning celebrating Mother’s Day together.

A coffee cart and breakfast will be available.

For catering purposes, please RSVP by Wednesday, 8 May 2024 including your daughter/s or son/s year level. Please click here to book.

Monday 13 May 2024 7:15am- 9:00am
Strathcona Deck, Senior Campus - 34 Scott Street, Canterbury Victoria 3126

Join Dr Justin for a practical presentation that draws on content from his new book, The Parenting Revolution, and incorporates up-to-the-minute research in parenting science and studies of childhood development. Dr Justin Coulson will show you:

- how our children thrive when we understand and meet their basic psychological needs;
- how our job is not to fix our kids, but to create an environment that supports their growth and development; and
- how children flourish when we minimise control, but maximise our warmth and involvement, and establish healthy boundaries.

Not all children are the same, and Justin considers a range of circumstances that you or your child might be in - including children with non-typical development.

Register your attendance to this session here

Kerri Rhodes
Senior School Psychologist

The dinner will kick off at 5.30pm, sitting down to a meal at 6pm.
There will be shared platters of pasta and pizza and dessert to follow. Dietary requirements catered for.
$65 per double (for additional family members $30).
Dads are most welcome to attend alone even if your daughter is not able to join us. Dads only $30 so please register, wander along and enjoy a wine and a few laughs with other dads on the night.
Our aim is for ALL to be most welcome.
To book please click here and don’t forget to book early to avoid disappointment as there is limited seating.

Cougars Cubs will set your little one up with correct basketball skills, techniques and confidence to hit the court.Ideal for players born 2016 - 2020

You can sign up here