A WORD FROM OUR SENIOR SCHOOL CAPTAINS STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY EMBRACING DIVERSITY & PROMOTING WELLBEING

The past semester at CGS has been inspiring as we’ve implemented changes to reinforce our sense of community, foster belonging, and prioritise the wellbeing of every student. We have witnessed remarkable initiatives that have made a lasting impact.

The year kicked off with CGS Welcome, a special programme that ensures a positive schooling experience for every new Senior School student. We are immensely grateful to the students who volunteered their time to support their peers during this transitional period.

Harmony Week was another highlight, celebrating the diverse voices within our School. Cultural showcases from the Japanese, French, Indonesian, and Spanish embassies allowed us to appreciate the CGS community’s rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds.

In Term 2, we organised the inspiring Shave for a Cure event in Week 2 to support the Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation. More than 60 Year 12 students bravely shaved or donated their hair, raising an impressive $50,565. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed and helped us surpass our goal. These funds will be used for researching new leukaemia technologies and cures. Notably, Mr Thompson also shaved off his hair to stand in solidarity with the students against cancer.

During Pride month in June, we proudly raised the Pride flag in the quadrangle, showing our alliance with the LGBTIAQ+ community. Rainbow wristbands were sold, with all proceeds benefiting Diversity ACT, an organisation providing support and resources to the LGBTIAQ+ community. At CGS, we prioritise creating an open and safe environment for all. We also supported student-driven programmes this Term, such as the “Editorial Grammar Gazette,” a student news outlet amplifying student voice at CGS. Additionally, we celebrated National Boarding Week by organising a friendly touch game between the day and boarding students, showcasing the talents of our boarding community. These events further strengthened our sense of belonging.

Regarding wellbeing, we introduced free sanitary products in all female bathrooms and launched a new warmer jacket as part of the school uniform. These initiatives contribute to the holistic development of every student.

Looking ahead to the next semester, we are committed to positively impacting the School. Together, we will build a stronger community, embrace diversity, and prioritise the wellbeing of all CGS students. Let us carry the spirit of unity and kindness into the future as we create an even brighter and more inclusive environment for everyone at CGS.