CGS OUTLOOK THE MAGAZINE OF THE CANBERRA GRAMMAR SCHOOL COMMUNITY
SEMESTER TWO
2020
FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE 1
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
2
SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
Graphic Designer: Twee Phan
2
2021 Senior School Captains
Printer: New Millennium Print
4
Introduction to Captains’ Initiatives
6
Primary School House Leaders for 2020
Contributions: Thank you to the many people who contributed to CGS Outlook, including the numerous teachers, students, and staff who supplied articles and photos
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BIG PICTURE
8
CGS Indigenous Scholarship Programme
On the cover: Kindergarten students Charlotte Meyers, Vesper Thompson and Marcus Susa
10 Music Department & Terry Snow Auditorium Update
EDITORIAL DETAILS Editor: Ryan Curran
Photography: William Hall Photography, staff and students
© Canberra Grammar School 2020
12 2020 CULMINATION
WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE?
12 Class Of 2020
Please forward any news, information and photos to the Editor at: communications@cgs.act.edu.au
13 A FOCUS ON...
13 Presentation Afternoon 13 Ian Powell Memorial Award
14 CGS Insight 15 Gough Whitlam Address
DID YOU KNOW WE’RE ONLINE? Follow the official CGS accounts for regular updates, information, news, and community activities. CGS.ACT.EDU.AU
16 HOUSE REPORT 16 Primary School Report 17 Senior School Report 18 Eddison House 19 Edwards House 20 NEWSbites
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24 AROUND THE SCHOOL 26 COMMUNITY REPORT 26 Remembrance Day 27 CGS Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp 10 th Anniversary 28 REMOTE LEARNING
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28 Transforming How We Connect 28 Online Learning Not Just For Students! 29 Connected Classrooms 29 One Button Studio 30 CGS STAFF FAREWELLS 32 CGS ALUMNI NEWS
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34 OUT OF THE ARCHIVES – CGS THEN & NOW
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FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Welcome to this final edition of CGS Outlook for 2020, the year that few of us expected and even fewer will want to remember. Yet, despite the fires, smoke, hail and pandemic that will undoubtedly prevail in our memories, 2020 was also a year of discoveries and triumphs that reflect the dauntless spirit of our community and our School. It was a year in which we had more reason than ever to be proud of our students’ optimism, the dedication of our staff, and the warm commitment of our families. In truth, compared to many in the world, we were very fortunate. Our remote learning period lasted barely two months, and while the anxiety and myriad daily adjustments lingered for months longer, this magazine is a testament to how readily our community adapted and how swiftly our School life returned to abundance. True, large gatherings became impossible under COVID-19 restrictions. For much of the year, assemblies, carnivals, camps, concerts and plays were quashed, and sport was largely curtailed. Nonetheless, we found ways to communicate online with video messages, live-streamed open days, recorded performances, remote lectures and parent-teacher nights beamed direct to living rooms. We kept in touch with our partner schools overseas via Connected Classrooms, and we held staff meetings and professional development sessions in online chat rooms. We became adept at talking to the camera in our One Button Studio, and we appreciated more than ever the extraordinary skill of our dedicated student Code Cadets, for whom live-streaming became a fine art, making everything shareable with families and friends, from the Year 12 Valedictory ceremonies, through Primary choral concerts and House Dinners to Presentation Day itself. As the title of our first post-lockdown theatre production put it, The Show Must Go On! Few events were the same as usual, of course, but all were still special and impressive in their own way for their innovation. Indeed, some features will remain now that the technology is in place, the whole experience having become part of our collective education. If our mission at Canberra Grammar School is to educate students who are curious, creative, confident and compassionate citizens of the world, then 2020 served us an ample real-time curriculum.
It gave us the opportunity to see all at once together, in one year, the raging front of climate change; to feel the global interdependence of our urban intensity; to wonder where the world’s new centres of gravity will fall; to recognise the fragility and preciousness of social justice, personal freedom and democracy; and to see the value of science and respect for truth reflected in the mortal cost of their denial. There’s no coincidence, in my mind, between that and the emergence of a new impetus in student leadership focused on the four key initiatives that our School Captains have set for the year ahead: (1) to focus on health and wellbeing in these anxious times; (2) to nurture inclusion in a time of social tension; (3) to seize the challenge of sustainability in the face of climate change; and (4) to empower the young through student voice. Perhaps the Year 12 of 2020 were the greatest champions of that optimism. Few had cause to be more disappointed: they lost opportunities for leadership; they missed many chances to represent the School at the highest levels in sport and the arts; their final year studies were disrupted, and their rites of passage changed by necessity. Yet, they never allowed themselves despondency. They led by the example of their determination and they finished in triumph; their celebrations all the sweeter for the strains, and their extraordinary success in early university placements reflecting not just their ATARs but the richness of their characters and whole education. I congratulate them, as I do everyone in our community, on the spirit and success of 2020, despite its hardship. As the signs on the corners of our campus read in December: ‘Bring on 2021’. Canberra Grammar School is ready for the world! – Justin Garrick, Head of School
SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 1
SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
LACHIE BYRON SCHOOL CAPTAIN CGS has been my second home since I joined the ELC in 2007; a place that nurtures passion, celebrates diversity and provides countless opportunities for excellence. In 2020 I found myself challenged like never before and was guided through with unparalleled support from staff, peers and my senior house Sheaffe. This support is reflective of our loving, caring community. Words cannot express how honoured, humbled and proud I am to step up alongside Umi as a Co-Captain of CGS, to represent the student body and promote our unique culture. In my final year here, I will wholeheartedly devote myself to this role and do what I can to give back to a school that has given me so much.
UMI KAHLOON SCHOOL CAPTAIN It is both an honour and a privilege to have been given the role of School Captain for the upcoming year, alongside Lachie, as the first Co-Captains of CGS. This is only my second year at CGS, but in a short amount of time I’ve grown to know and love this school and the people within it. The last 12 months have shown just how volatile the time we’re living in is and, as such, it is important for us all to learn to adapt and to be more resilient and open-minded, which is something I hope to further instil within our school environment and values. I am more than excited to dedicate myself to this role, to my peers and to the School over the next year.
JOSH LEE SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN It is humbling to serve as a School Vice-Captain for 2021. It is an opportunity for myself to give back to the School which has offered enduring friendships, distinctive memories and countless sporting, music and academic opportunities since I joined Pre-School. I hope to strengthen the vibrant and positive community we all embrace, and further instigate and create distinguishable opportunities for us as students. At CGS, I have learnt to embrace changes and welcome opportunities. I look forward to a successful year for both the students and community of CGS in 2021.
2 | CGS OUTLOOK
NOAH GORRELL SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN Being a Vice-Captain of School affords me the wonderful opportunity to serve a community that has served me so dearly over the past nine years. CGS provides ceaseless academic, co-curricular and pastoral opportunities. Having been taught to take up as much as the world can throw at you, I am fortunate to have experienced just a sliver of what CGS has to offer. Now stepping into the shoes of a School leader, unfamiliar and oversized as they may seem, I’m granted a new perspective on CGS, with the equally weighty and energising question of how we might enrich this place. I have confidence that, as a community, we can continue to enhance the vibrant life of Canberra Grammar School.
2021
SENIOR SCHOOL CAPTAINS ROBERT WILLINGHAM SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN Ever since Pre-School green, I have been in awe of School Captains. In the Primary School, I saw tree planting and inspirational speeches at Presentation Night. In the Senior School, I’ve seen their dedication, compassion and continuous effort for the School and I remained awestruck. As a result, I am so humbled to be part of the leadership team for 2021 and the experience serves as a keen reminder of the commitment that my role requires. I, along with the rest of the team, aspire to make positive changes to both School culture and School process. We aspire to be compassionate, down-to-earth and keen listeners to the needs of the greater School community.
YASMIN OSBORNE SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN DAIN KO SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN I feel incredibly honoured to have been elected as a Vice-Captain of CGS for 2021. Within the past two years that I have been a CGS student and boarder, the School has given me countless opportunities, a variety of experiences, and precious memories. CGS is not only my School but also my home and I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to give back to our amazing School community by being a part of the 2021 leadership team. I am truly excited for the upcoming school year, as the leadership team has various new initiatives we would like to implement, to ensure that every single student is heard, included and supported within our School.
Leadership to me is empowering others to achieve whatever greatness they aspire to. It is my hope to see my peers succeed and face their challenges head on. Leadership is an opportunity to help my fellow students see that they are more than just a number, a score or a title… that they have a genius. CGS teaches me the importance of community, especially relevant during times of communal strife. I’ve learned the key to the success and happiness of everyone is consistent positive interaction. This is built into the daily lifestyle at CGS. I have full faith that despite all we have experienced as a cohort, we will continue to look to the future with hope and anticipation for what it holds.
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SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
INTRODUCTION TO CAPTAINS’ INITIATIVES The Captains’ Initiatives are four notable areas that we believe have the most potential for improvement at CGS. We hope that through focusing on these initiatives we can instil positive change in our community.
STUDENT VOICE Students form the crux of CGS. Their wellbeing, development and identity is central to building a vibrant positive community for all. As such, evolving and improving student voice is imperative. 2021 will feature a renewed and redeveloped Student Representative Council, with more than 100 students involved. By providing a structure with visible pathways for changes to occur, we hope to deliver a forum for students to lead, develop and instigate ideas and actions for improving what we already have at CGS. Through the redeveloped SRC, we aim to establish the importance and possibilities of student voices within the culture of CGS for many years to come.
MENTAL WELLBEING With teenage mental health issues on the rise over the past few years, and especially with the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of mental wellbeing has never been greater. It is crucial that students feel encouraged and comfortable reaching out for help. The mental wellbeing initiative aims to continue to raise awareness around the issue and advance the support offered to students, so they can continue to excel in their studies and other School-related commitments. We are excited for 2021, with two new initiatives already planned: the first will be guest speaker Stuart Diver, speaking about resilience, and the second will be the introduction of the Mental Health First Aid programme.
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INCLUSIVITY CGS is a place full of diversity. There is a wonderful and vast range of people in our School. Having such a diverse community means that inclusivity is essential to our prosperity. For us, inclusivity is the practice of respecting differences, celebrating diversity, and striving to educate ourselves about the many faces of humanity. This means that all students feel welcome and respected for their backgrounds and individuality. We’d like all of us to become educated citizens of the world: staying informed to avoid ignorance and respecting different opinions while still forming our own. The inclusion initiative aims for a more educated, respectful, and open-minded student body, and we have no doubt that we can make big strides towards this goal over the next year.
SUSTAINABILITY Environmental sustainability is an issue of both local and transnational scale. It impacts all and requires the passion and commitment of all to support the natural world we rely on to ensure the continuing existence and health of the vast ecosystems and species within. Through the means of clear communication, education and leadership it is our aim to support the whole of the CGS community to feel that they have a say is how we do better for our world... our planet. We aim to empower the youth of today and give them an equal voice to make the change they wish to see at regional and international levels.
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SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
PRIMARY SCHOOL HOUSE LEADERS FOR 2020
EDWARDS
CJ SHAKESPEARE
GARNSEY
RADFORD
Zara Mand
Emma Bryant
Jillian Murphy
Charlotte Williams
Samantha Henry
Annabelle Patten-Richens
John Nikias
Dean Amasha
Rupert Pandy
Leo Nankervis
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Keira Goodear Will Dawson Deakin Fisher
Iris Rangiah Luca Wah Will Burdon
These 16 enthusiastic and excited young leaders began 2020 with a fanfare of House meetings and Primary School Assemblies to launch the House System and Pastoral programmes for the year ahead. Their motivation was further inspired by attending the Halogen Youth Leadership Conference in Sydney (when we were still able to travel and meet in large numbers), joined by 3,000 other Year 6 students from across the State, which is hard to imagine now! The House leaders formed their goals for the year ahead and essential agreements for how they would work together as a team to achieve these goals. The Peer Support programme, Year 6 leadership day, was the first of these goals – to develop a strong cohort of leaders to work in small House groups across Years 3 to 5. The Year 6 Leadership Day was held on-campus and included presentations from Senior School student leaders and Primary School Executive team members Mrs Garven (Acting Head of Primary) and Mr Hall (Director of Service and Action) together with Heads of Student House and Year 6 teachers. Year 6 had a wonderful experience and began to develop their mentoring skills in readiness for the weekly House groups. Shortly thereafter, remote learning became our new reality. Whilst initially disheartened that the Year 6 Leadership would not be able to interact directly with other cohorts, or each other for a while, they quickly used their innovative spirit to design a new House experience that could be accessed by everyone, wherever they were. This was a ‘game changer’ for the group. The House Hub was launched with weekly on-line resources for all Year levels across the Primary School, with House Leaders responsible for working with the Heads of Student House to maintain the weekly content material. This was arguably the highlight of the year for the House Leaders. They have created a new medium for the Primary School to access pastoral lesson material, and this is likely to remain as a regular part of the pastoral programme for the foreseeable future. – Ken Raven, Director of Student Life (2020)
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BIG PICTURE
CGS INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME This year we welcomed Elle Stewart-Reid to Canberra Grammar School. Here we talk to her mum, Annie, about their first year as a CGS family. Interview by Ryan Curran – Communications and Marketing Officer
WHAT DREW YOU TO CANBERRA GRAMMAR SCHOOL IN THE FIRST PLACE? John Dyball actually. Mr Dyball was my high school maths teacher, so we’ve had a relationship since then and he knew Elle through AFL. My brother had the opportunity to go to Knox Grammar so he was brought in to the Boarding School life through John. At the end of Year 7, Elle started saying “I wanna go to boarding school too”. So the idea came from Elle to begin with. I had actually spoken to her in Year 6, because I wanted more for her than she was getting in Primary School and she just wasn’t interested then. She was in to hanging out with friends and that sort of thing. After Elle said she wanted to go, I messaged Mr Dyball and he said “Hey Annie, I’m heading over on the third of December, do you want to come over as a family and check the School out?” So, we did! Then it was only three or four weeks before we came over. We did the tour, Elle fell in love with the School and then she started pestering me! “What’s happening, do I get a spot?” Because there wasn’t any spots at that time! At first, she was on the waiting list and then the opportunity came up and she kept bugging me, so I started messaging Mr Dyball. Then he gave me a call and he said “Annie!” “I’ve got some good news!” I asked him, “What’s going on?” and he said, “I’ve got a position for Ellie, do you think she’ll take it?” and I said “Absolutely!” She was keen from day dot, so that was it! We came in, dropped her off and that was that. That was massive for her, we all have come from a very tight family and we don’t often really leave each other, so that was a big deal for her to head off to boarding.
WHAT WERE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS IN YOUR FIRST YEAR? Well, immediately she had a massive improvement in her schooling. Massive. We’ve been so impressed! She also found Rugby, which was crazy for us. We originally came over from AFL! In coming over, we had to give up the Swans academy, which she was very involved with. She might continue with the AFL too but now she’s really in to this Union stuff. We had a chat over Christmas, and she wants to keep doing Rugby. The coach works with the Brumbies, so if she takes it on, she’s got a pretty good chance of making something of it. She loves school Rugby. We knew sports would take her a long way, but the great thing is that it’s not just about sports here. In the last 12 months, the thing that she’s improved most on is her education. She’s reading books now! She never read books at home before. Occasionally she would read a book for school or something, but never just reading novels in her spare time. 8 | CGS OUTLOOK
HOW HAVE THE TEACHERS & STUDENTS MADE YOU FEEL WELCOME? Oh, they’ve made us feel very welcome. We wouldn’t have lasted this long if they hadn’t been so welcoming. The staff have been great, and their communication has been excellent. Jenny (Head of Girls’ Boarding) has made us feel really comfortable and Stuart McNeill (Director of Active Education) has been great too. They’ve been really helpful with the AFL stuff as well. We were a bit stressed about that and Stuart and John took that on board and John has been really great behind the scenes.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE YEAR AHEAD? We’re looking forward to even more improvements in schooling and the change with Yuie starting. You see, Yuie’s a little different than Elle. Whereas Elle is out there and very confident already, we think Yuie will find his confidence once he’s nice and settled. Having both together in the same school will be good. The tutoring has been massive, which we don’t have back at home and, like I said, Elle has changed massively with her education and her ability to communicate has improved along with it. We’re really looking forward to seeing how Yuie goes this year.
HOW TO APPLY If you would like to find out more about the Indigenous Scholars Programme, or how to apply, simply hold your phone camera over the QR code or visit our website.
SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 9
BIG PICTURE
MUSIC DEPARTMENT & TERRY SNOW AUDITORIUM UPDATE The School’s Auditorium, Music Department and Centre for Learning is the biggest capital works project the School has ever undertaken and is due to be finished in early 2022. In late 2020, we were given a sneak peek at the progress so far. Throughout 2020, we saw massive steps taken on this project, as the team at Construction Control worked hard to complete the majority of the pre-build dig. By the end of 2020, more than 20,000 tonnes of soil had been removed, representing around 85% of earthworks.
IT IS ALSO IMPORTANT TO THE SCHOOL THAT WE LEAVE A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT. SO FAR, MORE THAN 1,500 TONNES OF BUILDING MATERIAL HAVE BEEN REMOVED, WITH 1,381 TONNES RECYCLED.
When completed, the auditorium will seat more than 1300 people, it will house the Music Department and have enough stage space for an entire orchestra. This includes space for more than 100 weekly curricular music classes and hundreds more individual instrumental tuition lessons. Supporting more than 30 ensembles, bands, orchestras and choirs, there has long been a need for teaching, rehearsal and performance spaces, to better accommodate the passion and dedication of hundreds of young musicians learning at the School every week. The gift of $20 million from CGS Alumnus, philanthropist, entrepreneur and Patron of the CGS Foundation, Mr Terry Snow AM, is one of the largest gifts to a school in Australian history and it will substantially enhance the School’s capacity to deliver its commitment to educational leadership and musical excellence in Australia. Not only that, but the facility will provide the wider Canberra community with a fantastic musical destination, right on our doorstep. With earthworks to be completed in early 2021, the focus can now be turned to the construction of this wonderful project. There’s still a long way to go but the construction is on track, with some very exciting times ahead for the School. – Ryan Curran, Communications and Marketing Officer
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SNEAK PEAK OF THE NEW AUDITORIUM CONSTRUCTION
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2020 CULMINATION
CLASS OF 2020 The class of 2020 will undoubtedly be remembered for the impact COVID-19 had on their final year of school. Many had looked toward the end of the pandemic and a quick guide through the year but, mostly, they made the opportunity of the modified year. It was a year in which learning programmes became remote and House and leadership opportunities became even more remote. However, through the determination and adaptability of the student body, their voice was still heard, and their leadership still defined. The skills they gained this year will serve them well in our hopefully more stable future. House Music occurred, albeit virtual, sporting fixtures still took place and modified versions of the Captains’ Cup still engaged students. By year’s end, we had come to some sort of equilibrium and it was with joy that the CGS Formal was held at Old Parliament House. Houses held graduating dinners, the cohort sat together for their final assembly and they eventually made their way out the Eastern Quad Arch and onto their next, great adventure. Over 85% of the cohort received an early offer to university and results were nothing short of extraordinary, considering the circumstances. The uniqueness of completing their final year through a pandemic cannot be underestimated, yet the students got on with the job and emerged all the stronger for their effort. ‘Bring on 2021’ could not have been closer to the truth, though I expect many students will look back in wonder, amazement and perhaps a hint of nostalgia at 2020, this most bizarre and unforgettable year. Congratulations to all our students, we wish you all the best as you enter the greater world ahead. – Sandy Goddard, Director of Community Development
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PRESENTATION AFTERNOON Unfortunately, as with most events this year, the Presentation Afternoon’s audience had to be scaled down to meet COVID-19 requirements. However, its scope remained as large as ever, as we celebrated student achievement through a series of videos that captured the life of the School. The event was live-streamed, so that no parent or guardian missed out on seeing the wonderful achievements of our student cohort. Whereas we would regularly display some fantastic musical performances, some creative thinking was needed to achieve the music component of this year’s Presentation Afternoon. Unlike previous years, where massed musicians from across the School have joined together to perform, Primary and Senior music students pre-recorded separate segments ahead of time. While we would have all loved to have come together, it is truly impressive how events were handled with grace and creativity in a very turbulent time.
The senior music item was ‘One Day More’ from Les Miserables. High quality audio and video equipment was used to record the orchestra and choir. Then, many individual recordings were compiled digitally to present a dynamic virtual performance. The students really enjoyed the recording process, as well as being able to see the fruits of their labour in the finished product! – Ryan Curran, Communications and Marketing Officer
IAN POWELL MEMORIAL AWARD The Ian Powell Memorial Award recognises those who have made a special contribution to the life of the School. It is an award that shines a light on those who selflessly, and without fanfare, go above and beyond the call of duty. For 2020, the School could find no more deserving recipients than the entire Grounds and Maintenance team. There was a time when the School’s grounds and facilities were beginning to look their age! A little tired and, perhaps, a little worse for wear. Nothing could be further from the truth today. The team has managed to restore the School to a place of beauty and pride. From the meticulously crafted gardens, to the ever-green lawns and the gleaming halls. With a smile and a friendly chat, the Grounds and Maintenance team are always ready to lend a hand.
Their hard work and skill have never been on display more than it was in 2020. Beginning with the scorching summer, full of smoke, all the way through COVID-19 and remote learning, this team has been there for the School every step of the way. Everyone in the School community would like to pass on their thanks to the Grounds and Maintenance crew and wish them well for a well-deserved holiday! – Ryan Curran, Communications and Marketing Officer
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A FOCUS ON...
Not even a global pandemic was able to stop the student-driven momentum of the Insight and Insight Asia Speaker Series in 2020. Insight hosted four speakers during the second half of this year, with considerable focus on the coronavirus pandemic and the way it is destined to change the way our students live, work, play and learn. Our sincere thanks go to CGS Board member and parent, Mr Sung Lee for facilitating several speakers this year. First, we were fortunate to be joined by Professor Tikki Pangestu. A graduate of the Australian National University, with BSC (Honours) and PhD degrees in the fields of biochemistry and microbiology/immunology, Dr Pangestu spoke to our students about the future of world health security – a very timely discussion!
She posited to students the question – what if we thought about AI as the 21st century’s steam engine? What might it teach us? In what was a highly engaging presentation, Professor Bell was able to draw these connections for students in order to help them make sense of the future of AI.
Next, we had Professor the Hon Gareth Evans. Professor Evans discussed the importance of good international citizenship, the benefits of such an approach in terms of reputation and reciprocity and how there is ‘no inherent tension between national interests, and international obligations - both legal and moral’.
Insight is now central to the context of our academic mission at CGS to prepare our students to be ‘ready for the world’. Insight continues to encourage our students to face and act on complex global issues, to develop new and critical insights into society, to challenge the status quo and to foster creative and interdisciplinary approaches to their actions. Encouraging this critical lens will enable our students to become future leaders, able to sift through the politics of division and to lead with integrity, honour, love and compassion.
After Professor Evans, CGS Insight held the Asia series, which focused on how to defend Australia in the 21st century. Professor White highlighted the pros and cons of our ‘tyranny of distance’, our maritime nation status and the benefits and challenges they bring us individually and collectively. Finally, Distinguished Professor Genevieve Bell spoke on the topic of a ‘21st Century Steam Engine: making sense of the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI).’ Professor Bell presented the idea that just as the steam engine changed the way in which we lived, powering the industrial revolution, AI is historically positioned to do the same to modern society.
As a truly distinctive and global School in our nation’s capital, CGS is leveraging its educational capacity in design, social sciences, humanities, and performing arts to cultivate human-orientated perspectives and approaches. Insight continues to embrace the mantra that the opportunity posed by man-made problems is that they have human solutions. Our students are the future architects of these human solutions. – Karen Gregory, Head of CGS Centre for Global Citizenship
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The Canberra Grammar School Gough Whitlam Address is named for our 21st Prime Minister and one of our most prominent alumni. Mr Whitlam was the only Australian Prime Minister to be educated in Canberra, attending CGS from 1932, and was Dux of the School three years running. The Whitlam legacy, though controversial, highlights the power of individuals to affect great change by having the courage of their convictions.
On Tuesday, November 10, CGS was proud to welcome the 2020 Australian of the Year Dr James Muecke AM. Dr Muecke attended Canberra Grammar School as a young man before dedicating his life to fighting blindness across the planet. As an ophthalmologist, his life exemplifies this year’s theme of ‘Harnessing your Passion to Change the World.’ For the young men and women in the audience, it can be hard to imagine the difference one person can make. Gough Whitlam and Dr Muecke prove that ordinary people can do extraordinary things by following their passion and committing to a better world. The night began with a stirring cello performance from Year 11 student James Monro before the important Acknowledgement of Country from one of our own students, Elle Stewart-Reid, a proud indigenous woman. School Captain Umi Kahloon opened the Address with an eloquent speech, introducing the history of Gough Whitlam’s life and career. Umi highlighted the enduring themes of unity, compassion and kindness that defined his life and how students today can take up that mantle in a world that is seemingly more divided than ever. We were then treated to a beautiful rendition of the Indigo Girls’ song Galileo by CGS musicians. At Canberra Grammar School, music is a vehicle for passion and the talented students performing this song surely moved all in the audience with their performance.
Dr Muecke’s address began with the winding history of his early life across Australia and the globe before settling at Canberra Grammar School. Despite working very hard at school to become a doctor, he missed out on entrance to Sydney Uni by one mark! Undeterred, Dr Muecke showed that there is no set path for success and his willingness to learn and embrace opportunities was far more important. Dr Muecke’s inspiring career began in Kenya and he has dedicated his life to fighting preventable blindness. His dedicated service to those less fortunate took him around the world and gave him invaluable life experiences. In his own words, ‘This life is extraordinary and offers so many opportunities for adventure and I think we need to embrace those opportunities going forward.’ The power of individuals to inspire was evident, with School Captain Lachie Byron noting that Dr Muecke’s ‘words and example have given us much to consider about our opportunity, indeed our responsibility, to use our education and our passions to make a difference in life - far more perhaps, than many of us have imagined.’ We look forward to the Gough Whitlam Address in years to come and hope that our students will continue to be inspired by those who have walked in their shoes and gone on to forge a unique path. – Ryan Curran, Communications and Marketing Officer SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 15
HOUSE REPORT
PRIMARY SCHOOL REPORT Congratulations to Radford House from our Primary School for taking home the House Shield for 2020! As most of you know, students in the Junior School join one of the four Houses in Year 3, where they work as a team across a range of fun activities such as Swimming, Cross Country and House Music. Through the House system, students learn to take responsibility for one another – for those older than themselves, those younger than themselves and for their peers. Radford House have shown us all the importance and value of working together to achieve a great result! Well done to all the students who have participated this year. – Ryan Curran, Communications and Marketing Officer
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SENIOR SCHOOL REPORT Like a lot of activities in 2020, the running of the House Shield suffered from a disrupted year, with the Swimming Carnival in March the last carnival able to be staged. Other events had to be modified or curtailed as the School responded to ACT Government restrictions and COVID-19 guidelines. The Swimming Carnival was a massive day and, as always, a loud and colourful demonstration of House spirit. With an early lead in the House competition, Garnsey House took line honours with Sheaffe in second place and Eddison in third. Despite the difficulties, the School found ways to make sure we could continue with School spirit and find a suitable winner of the House Shield! In regular years, the House Shield is made up of the following components: • Swimming • Cross Country • House Music • Athletics • Academic Effort In 2020, the overall results witnessed Eddison House claiming victory with an impressive podium finish in each area of the competition. This consistency saw Eddison place third in the Swimming carnival; third in House Music; third in Academic Effort and first place in Athletic Standards. – Stuart McNeill, Director of Active Education
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HOUSE REPORT
EDDISON HOUSE In what has been a horrible year on so many fronts, Eddison House has endeavoured to deepen the threads that bind our community, look after one another and enjoy another victory in the House Shield! The House Shield victory is a small ray of sunshine on what has otherwise felt like a year of cloudy days. From a Head of House perspective it was, of course, superb to see the mighty body of Eddison students rally around the drive to victory. However, it is in the efforts of the Eddison seniors to strengthen the esprit de corps of the House and build a genuinely supportive, committed, and positive ‘family’ that produces lasting satisfaction. While victory in the House Shield is ephemeral, the bonds that bind Eddison are enduring. As we look to our Diamond Jubilee in 2021 we are confident that we have created a House that does justice to the incredible Eddison family, whose name we bear. In 2021 Eddison will celebrate its sixtieth year as a House at Canberra Grammar. Central to Eddison’s celebration of this milestone will be our commissioning of our second House Mosaic. At our fiftieth we designed and commissioned the stunning mosaic of the three Eddison boys that is currently on display in the Eddison House area. However, since turning fifty, the School has become co-educational, and our namesake family had three daughters alongside those three boys, so it is our plan to immortalise Diana, Pamela, and Marion in a second mosaic. 18 | CGS OUTLOOK
As with our first mosaic, students from Eddison House will develop the design and local mosaicist, Tina van Raay, will bring our design to life. To raise the money required for the mosaic, Eddison House will hold (COVID-19 permitting) an Eddison House family quiz night, run by our House Captains, as well as an auction in mid-Term 3. We hope to be in a position to unveil the new mosaic at our House Dinner in October 2021. The Eddison story is an incredible tale of a pioneering migrant family, who came in search of a new opportunity at the start of the twentieth century. It is a story of a family who valued honour, hard work, and courage. It is a story of a family who gave generously to others and it is a story of a family that knew significant sacrifices were required in order for good to prevail. It is in the lessons drawn from this example that Eddison looks confidently to 2021 and beyond. – John Klein, Head of Student House – Eddison
EDWARDS HOUSE The connections forged between members of different year groups is perhaps the most important part of the Edwards House community. Even during a challenging period of remote learning and isolation, we found ways to remain connected through House Meeting Zoom activities. Returning to face-to-face education made all members of the House more grateful for the day-to-day social interactions which define Edwards. The year started off in fine form with the annual Edwards Activity Afternoon – a highlight on the annual calendar. In keeping with tradition, Mr Ross’ former tutees organised the annual Iron Man Competition, which did not disappoint. As it is customary for the House Captain to win this event, the pressure was heaped on the shoulders of Tom Gaynor. However, it was Nick Bisa who came away with the win, excelling at a course that involved crawling through gravy, using chopsticks to eat jellybeans from a cup of custard and then putting on and running in socks that had cream and tomato sauce in them!
Term 4 saw a new activity for the students to focus on as we took part in the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox donations. It was wonderful to have Mr Lendrum, former Head of Garran House, to come and speak at a House meeting about his involvement with this worthwhile charity, and the Edwards House students embraced the opportunity to give to others. The joy they experienced in being able to give a present to a girl or boy who may not have anything else to open on Christmas Day was something very special to see. This is one tradition we will definitely continue in years to come.
We quickly recovered from the Activity Afternoon to gear up for the Swimming Carnival. The main priorities for the House this year were to have a maroon cap in every race, and to not be disqualified in any of the relays (yes, we were still smarting from 2019). We came away from the day satisfied that we had done our best and met those goals. It was especially pleasing to see our House Spirit, support and energy recognised when we took out the Sportsmasters’ Cup for the day. And then, just as we started to prepare for the Cross Country, with early morning training runs, we unfortunately moved off campus, and into the period of online learning.
The life of Edwards House can be characterised by our lively House meetings, which underwent a ‘revamp’ at the start of Term 4, with our new House leaders Miles, Angus (Dev) and Robyn out the front. We have seen the re-emergence of the ‘Joke of the Week’ segment with the crowd favourite Hugh Andrew, and the presentation of Edwardoes (the Edwards House currency) by Ziggy Gosier and Damian English, an important opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of those in Edwards House.
A highlight of the year, however, would have to be the first ever virtual House Music competition, which took place at the end of Term 2. Even with less rehearsal time than usual and the uncertainty of the event, Edwards musicians performed exceptionally, securing a win in the House Instrumental and 4 to 10 voices categories, as well as an overall first place. This achievement is a testament to the whole of Edwards House, and the dozens of rehearsals that were undertaken. Big thanks must be made to Andrew Millar, House Music Captain, for taking care of all the administrative aspects.
In Edwards we pride ourselves on the closeness of our community, which more than makes up for our distance away from the rest of the School. While our location within the School grounds is often something we are mocked about, all Edwards students will tell you that it is one of our greatest strengths. It keeps the House together of a morning, recess and lunch and this really strengthens the sense of family that epitomises Edwards House. 2020 has been a year of great challenge for all, but the students have contributed to make this year something special, not only with the success in the School carnivals, but more so in the uniqueness of Edwards House life. – Rosie Carlson, Head of Student House – Edwards
Athletics Standards took place near the end of Term 3. This unique School event relies on every student in the House to pull their weight and not just one or two strong athletes in each year group to carry us. As usual, the collective drive of Edwards shone through and, for the third year in a row, we achieved the highest overall event completion rate, a true testament to the commitment and House pride of our students.
SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 19
NEWSbites
UPGRADE TO BOYS’ BOARDING 2021 saw students return to find significant upgrades to both Jones and Blaxland Houses. Predominantly all single rooms, the renovations included re-painting, new carpeting and energyefficient lighting. The refurbishments also saw the introduction of king single beds and, most importantly from the students’ perspective, air-conditioning in each room! The standard of the fit out is now consistent across both Boys’ and Girls’ Boarding. Judging from the many smiles on day one, the improvements saw broad approval from the boarding students. – Sandy Goddard, Director of Community Development
KIDS LIT QUIZ The Kids Lit Quiz is an annual international literature competition for students in Years 5 to 8. The Canberra heat was held on Monday 27 July (virtually of course), with our three teams achieving amazing results! Canberra Grammar School teams took out first, second and fifth places. Not only that, all twelve students won a book for getting the top score in an individual category. Well done! Due to changes in the format for the Australian Final, the first two teams from each heat went onto the Final, held virtually on Friday October 23. The World Final, unfortunately, was cancelled. Representing Canberra Grammar School was CGS 2, comprised of Callum Bennett, Maya Wing, Bethan Pitt and Harry English, who came in second place, which scored them a $50 book voucher each, plus a medallion. CGS 1 included Willem Hehir, Ethan Temby, Harry Mackay and Samantha Henry, who came in equal fourth place, winning a $15 book voucher each. Congratulations! The KLQ students all read heaps of books and learned about authors, myths, legends and more, while having a lot of fun! – Terri Rob, Senior School Library Assistant
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DRAMA The Show Must Go On saw the welcome return of theatre to Canberra Grammar School in 2020. To celebrate, all three productions that constituted the programme were directed by Year IB Theatre students Hugh Andrew, Hannah Astner and Talia Yett. This experience not only allowed them to show their understanding of staging a theatrical production, but also covered their IB CAS commitment. For a significant number of our students, this was their first CGS production and it was inspiring to see the level of excitement that came from all cast members during the rehearsal and performance process. While the bright lights of major theatre districts around the world are still dim, with only the traditional ghost light occupying their stages, our directors and performers stepped up to the challenges of rehearsing and performing in our new environment. May 2021 will see our production of Grease –The Musical hitting the stage and for those non-musical students, information about our Years 7 to 9 Production in Term 3, and Years 10 to 12 Production in Term 4 will be available in the new year. – Simon Hughes, Head of Performing Arts
CLASS MUSIC RECITALS As part of their Elective Music Class, students in Years 8, 9 and 10 present a performance on their instrument of choice. These performances are assessed, and the students are given written feedback. This comprises part of their assessment marks. As we were unable to have recitals in Semester 1, the students were pleased to perform to real audiences and the community enjoyed the opportunity to listen to all of our wonderfully talented students, who performed on a wide variety of instruments, covering classical to contemporary repertoire. Preparations for each recital began months in advance, with students working with teachers to choose the best fit for their performance. Then, closer to the recital date they progress to rehearsals with one of our School piano accompanists before finally taking to the stage for real. These performances help to light a spark of passion in students, introducing them to the possibilities of music and its power to move audiences. The pursuit and mastery of artistry is a lesson the students will carry with them forever. – Beth McConchie, Senior School Administrator – Music
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NEWSbites
SENIOR SCHOOL MUSIC COMMUNITY The Canberra Grammar School Senior Music community had to use all its creative prowess to meet the challenges of 2020. From online band rehearsals, video submission solos for the Presentation Afternoon video and Zoom instrumental lessons, the musicians of our School have risen to meet the challenge head on. We were fortunate to present a Jazz Bands concert in the second last week of Term 4 which was, oddly enough, our first concert of the year. Both Armstrong and Fitzgerald Jazz Bands took the eager audience on a journey through musical styles. With swing classics such as String of Pearls and Chattanooga Choo-Choo, to smooth rock classics by Sade, the students of both bands showed their fine musical development. A standout from the concert was Year 11 IB Student, Caitlin Richardson, joining Armstrong Jazz Band as a vocalist to perform the classic hits It’s Only a Paper Moon and Orange Coloured Sky. The professionalism each student brought to the concert suggests that 2021 is shaping up to be an even more exciting year of Music at Canberra Grammar School. We look forward to seeing you at one of our 2021 concerts. – Beth McConchie, Senior School Administrator – Music
HSC DANCE On Thursday 3 September, the HSC Dance students presented their practical dance works in front of a small, socially distanced audience in the Tim Murray Theatre —- the first event in the theatre in some time. The evening showcased the multiple works presented by the students in their practical exams only a few weeks prior and celebrated their achievements. It was especially impressive given their preparation included weeks of choreographing and rehearsing in their loungerooms, kitchens and bedrooms. The event was made that little extra bit special as the students were the first cohort to complete HSC Dance for Canberra Grammar School. – Jessica Mercer, Assistant Head of Performing Arts
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DUKE OF EDINBURGH 2020, while full of challenges, has been a great year for students enrolled in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Programme. The award is a youth development programme, empowering young people aged between 14 and 24 to explore their full potential. At Canberra Grammar School, there are more than 150 students registered with the Award. There are 3 Levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold – with each level becoming progressively more challenging. To achieve an Award, each young person must learn a skill, improve their physical well-being, volunteer in the community and experience a team adventure in a new environment. At Gold Level, participants must also under take a residential programme. There are a huge number of benefits to taking part in the Award, including increased confidence, leadership opportunities, developing creativity and adaptability, developing planning and problem solving skills and giving back to the community. At CGS, the Award is managed by the Outdoor Education Department, along with Ms Caite Khan. The Outdoor Education Department can assist with the Adventurous Journey component and this year has run both hiking and paddling trips that students have planned and prepared for. In 2020, six students achieved their Bronze Award, four reached Silver and one student took out Gold. Bronze – Charlie Martin, Finlay Macgill, William Truman, Jack Gardner, Sarvani Gaddipati, Ashley Grice Silver – Archer Martin, Chamindu Dayajeewa, Angus Mailler, Darcy Gilbert Gold – Taylor Miners – Sue Donoghoe, Head of Outdoor Education
GLOBAL YOUTH ADVOCACY FORUM In Term 4, two groups of Year 9 students had the opportunity to be involved in the Global Youth Advocacy Forum run by the Asia Education Foundation. The GYAF aimed to get our students to reflect on their role in a globalised society and what they could do to make change within it. In preparation for the forums, our students connected with their peers at Silver Lake School in Huangzhou, China and asked them about their lives. They discussed the similarities in schooling but surprised each other with experiences, ideas and everyday aspects of life that their fellow students knew nothing about. Our students then brought their experiences to the GYAF where they met, over Zoom, with other Year 9 students around Australia. On the day of the Forum, CGS students met with students from Victoria and collaborated on several activities. The focus was giving them a voice on global issues and equity in education. They explored how they can contribute to their own education and prepared classroom activities based on their peers’ experiences of education. The final session of the day involved the students choosing an area from the previous activities that they wanted to explore in further detail. Our students chose to consider how they can be better prepared for the world through developing career skills. They will be working with schools in Melbourne and rural Victoria over the next year to develop their ideas further. – Marita Petherbridge, Theatre Manager
SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 23
AROUND THE SCHOOL
PRIMARY SCHOOL
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SENIOR SCHOOL
SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 25
COMMUNITY REPORT
REMEMBRANCE DAY This year, Father Andrew was given the challenge of marking Remembrance Day within the restrictions of COVID-19, Year 10 exams, Year 12 final IB exams and, finally, recess – all taking place at the time! The result was an outdoor, in-person and live streamed commemorative event. The tragedy of war is no more evident than in the nearly 3,000 deaths that occurred on the Western Front during the six-hour delay between the signing of the Armistice and the enacting of the cease fire. At 5:00am on 11 November 1918, German, British and French officials gathered inside a railroad dining car north of Paris to sign the Armistice to end World War I. They determined that the guns would fall silent at 11:00am, in part, to allow news of the cease fire to be transmitted to the front lines. The war continued for six long hours and the resulting death toll surpassed the daily average on the Western Front. On Wednesday 11 November, with poppies adorning the shirts of many, a small number of students and staff assembled in the Chapel forecourt, along with Matt Purcell and his very able camera and sound assistants. After a short address given by Father Andrew, School Captain Lachie Byron read In Flanders Fields, the war poem written by Canadian physician Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae in 1915. The poem was written by McCrae after performing the burial service of a close friend who was killed during the Battle of Ypres and noticing how quickly poppies grew around the graves of those who had died there.
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Fergus Pandy then sounded the Chapel Bell for the 33 Alumni who have given their lives in different armed conflicts around the world and the School Roll of Honour was read by Yasmin Osborne and Noah Gorrell. AJ Fraser played The Last Post, to represent the symbolic ending of the day and commemoration for those fallen. The playing of The Last Post led the separate, smaller audiences around the School into a minute of reflective silence while wreaths were laid by Dr Garrick, Vice-Captains Yasmin Osborne and Noah Goerrell, and Year 6 students Alex Power, Annabelle Patten-Richens, Ariane Ashurst and Oliver Horn. Reveille was then sounded to end the silence and School Captain Umi Kahloon recited The Ode. While 2020 has been a year that many of us will want to forget, it remains important to commemorate and reflect on our history and on those that have gone with courage before us. – Alison Larwill, Defence Transition Mentor
CGS SONY FOUNDATION CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY CAMP 10TH ANNIVERSARY It’s amazing how quickly ten years goes by! Ten years ago a small group of staff volunteers, together with a committed team of Year 11 boys and girls, embarked on our first ever Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp. Our aim was to provide 24/7 care for three days and two nights to children with special needs from our local region. We also hoped to provide their families and carers with a much needed break just before Christmas and to allow their children to have the time of their lives while being cared for and mentored by a well-trained group of students, staff and volunteers. Over the last ten years, we have been privileged to be able to support 160 families and given approximately 350 Year 11 students an amazing chance to serve our local community. In December 2020, we celebrated our 10th annual camp. Although COVID-19 restrictions meant that we couldn’t leave campus and campers needed to go home each night, we were proud that we were able to still hold a camp — one of only a few Sony Camps that managed to run last year. 19 campers from the ACT spent two action-packed days at CGS participating in yoga, swimming, African drumming, craft, dancing, cup-cake decorating and having an amazing time hanging out with their Year 11 Companions. The highlight of the final day was our annual camp mini-fete, followed by a visit from Santa.
It was sad saying goodbye after two intense days, in which strong, loving relationships were forged. We want to thank the Sony Foundation for their generous support over the last ten years, and a passionate and committed team of staff and nurses who have become a tight knit family. 2021 beckons and we look forward to welcoming campers from the South Coast, Canberra and Monaro regions. – Graeme Lendrum, Assistant Director of Student Development
SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 27
BEFORE
REMOTE LEARNING
TRANSFORMING HOW WE CONNECT
AFTER
During 2018 and 2019 we explored the needs for a system that could be a learning management system, an announcements system and a portal to other systems. We call this system CGS Connect. Based on input from parents, students and staff the project compared numerous systems, testing three different options and stress-testing them through everyday activities. Taking that information, the final design was chosen. For most users, this represented a new interface but, in truth, this change brought about so much more. As well as implementing the design, there was potential to develop new functionality specifically for the School’s needs. With the implementation complete for 2020, the system was put to the ultimate test, through a year that included remote learning and a much higher load than was anticipated. Still, the system performed fantastically, and greater benefits were seen from the change. There was also a positive difference in attitudes from staff using CGS Connect, when compared to the previous system. There is more to come from CGS Connect, including a mobile app and more continuous assessment information on student’s profiles. – Michael de Raadt, Head of Education Technology
ONLINE LEARNING NOT JUST FOR STUDENTS! In line with the ‘new normal’ of social distancing, Canberra Grammar School ran a full day workshop and professional development day for all teaching staff called Moving Forward; Building Agency at the start of Term 3. The goals for the day were centred on enhanced professional practice, particularly with technology strategies honed during lockdown, a shared sense of community engagement through peer leadership and a focus on best practice from within the teaching teams. Importantly, it was an opportunity to hear from students about their experiences during and after the ‘learning from home’ period. Workshop choices provided a cross-School look inside classroom initiatives, celebrated new and successful pedagogical approaches and allowed staff to consider a deeper understanding of the CGS Learning Framework in action. Remote learning changed the teacher-student dynamic and created unusual responses in students: working online, working with instant messaging and learning via Zoom. It also flagged issues regarding online learning, student agency and the ethical and responsible use of technology. 28 | CGS OUTLOOK
This day was an excellent way to capitalise on the best experiences and to learn from the challenges we encountered to strengthen both our staff initiatives and the School as a learning organisation. Of note was the seamless modelling of online workshop enrolment, course delivery and integration of Zoom and CGS Connect to deliver workshop content, paving the way for a more robust delivery of options to students in the future. – Marita Petherbridge, Theatre Manager
CONNECTED CLASSROOMS Connected Classrooms is a Canberra Grammar School project providing real time connections between classes at CGS (and around the world) with the goal of developing informed, global citizens. Groundwork for this project began in September 2017, when CGS signed a sister school agreement with Hangzhou Yinhu School. The two schools have worked together on several projects, including the use of IT to better develop each other’s pedagogy and communication. Intercultural understanding, committed investment in software and hardware from both schools’ IT Departments, and collaboration of teaching staff have made Connected Classrooms a reality. These efforts have ensured delivery of classroom conferencing facilities and connection between CGS and Yinhu School students and staff. This has allowed both schools to benefit from real time communication with each other, leading to perspectives that enhance global understanding and learning. This project established a template that the School plans to use when connecting with other schools around the World. Throughout the trial, connections have been made with India, Argentina and other schools in Australia.
For Year 11 Spanish Ab Initio students, connections were made with a school in Argentina called Neuquen. It was a great opportunity for students to practice their Spanish with native speakers and get a first-hand account of their experience in lockdown. Like much of Latin America, students in Neuquen have been in lockdown since March! CGS looks forward to being able to continue to offer Connected Classrooms next year to students in order to capitalise on this wonderful opportunity. Ongoing trials in Term 4 of 2020 occurred in Languages, Economics and Geography Departments, with the goal of formalising connections throughout 2021. Student responses to the Connected Classrooms trial survey indicate this project has enhanced their learning and has helped developed a greater understanding of their world. – Justin Hassall, Asian Engagement Co-ordinator
ONE BUTTON STUDIO In 2020, Canberra Grammar School established its One Button Studio (OBS), a concept pioneered by Penn State University. The OBS allows for high-definition, professional-quality video to be produced by anyone, regardless of technical knowledge. The OBS has professional lighting and video equipment that connects to a single button that users press to begin and end recording. The video is saved on a USB drive that users can then edit or upload straightaway as necessary. The launch of the OBS was timely with remote learning and COVID-19 restrictions, allowing us to record virtual assemblies to keep the spirit of CGS alive in the student community at a time that we were unable to meet as a whole School cohort. We were also able to create content that connected our senior leadership, students, and staff to parents and the broader community, in order to provide an insight into what was happening at School while they were unable to attend the campus.
The original aims of establishing the OBS were threefold. The School wanted to give students an active and authentic learning experience that allowed them to present their work in creative ways; to give teachers more opportunities to engage in learning in differentiated instruction; and to offer new technology that, in conjunction with other aspects of a CGS education, would better prepare our students for what they might encounter in their professional lives, and to be ready for the world. – Marita Petherbridge, Theatre Manager
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CGS STAFF FAREWELLS
KYLIE VAN DIJK Kylie started at Canberra Grammar School 23 years ago as a music specialist teacher, working two hours a week teaching Pre-School students. She was introduced to the School by a relative and in her words, was pretty dreadful to begin with! We find that hard to believe as she has delivered an extraordinary music curriculum to Early Years students and CGS Singers during her time here. Kylie worked part-time at CGS within the Pre-School and then expanded the Pre-Kindergarten programme for nine years, became a mother to two beautiful girls and directed youth choirs in the ACT. She moved to a full-time role 14 years ago and has been instrumental in the development of the high quality and diverse music offerings we have today. Being short of stature never daunted Kylie, as the black box would be dragged around to ensure that she was visible to the students when they were performing in Eisteddfods, Christmas concerts, choirs and celebrations. Kylie was also a keen, life-long learner. She thoroughly enjoyed the learning and teaching discussions as we implemented the IB PYP and as she discussed music philosophy with the four different Heads of Music within her 23 years at CGS. Kylie will be fondly remembered for her passion, energy, music intelligence, commitment and conscientious attitude to developing high quality in all she undertook. We wish Kylie all the best as she moves to Trinity Christian School where she can share her love of music with the teachers, students and community.
CHRIS BLAIN Chris Blain finished at Canberra Grammar School after 20 years of service, to return to Northern Queensland. His career began at CGS as an English Teacher in 2000. He was a Residential Tutor in Jones Boarding House where his care and insightful perception of student welfare defined his career. He was an Eddison Tutor and served as Sheaffe’s Acting Head of Student House for part of 2011 and 2014. Affectionately known as ‘Blaino’ by students and staff, he was renowned for his authentic style of teaching English. He was an individual who ‘did it his way’, but always with logic and depth in his reasoning. His motivation, care and sense of humour was indiscriminate towards students, and he always had time for those who sought it. Chris’ love for Cricket and the development of players earned him great respect and admiration from the boys in his team. He also refereed Football for many years until those knees could take it no longer! A teacher of great conviction, he ‘got it’, as they say. He knew the students and was always there for them. He will be fondly remembered and his time at CGS was greatly appreciated by many.
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AT THE END OF 2020 WE FAREWELLED A NUMBER OF STAFF INCLUDING THESE LONG-SERVING AND SENIOR COLLEGUES.
GAI DENNETT Gai Dennett concluded 20 years of service to CGS at the end of 2020. She was employed as a Teacher Librarian in 2001 before taking on more responsibilities as the Assistant Head of the Resource Centre (Teaching and Learning) and then leading the Resource Centre as Head of Senior School Library for the last 16 years. She served on the Education Technology committee and was a steward to the Ulysses Society. Gai’s passion and commitment as a Tutor in Blaxland Boarding House and Burgess House was appreciated by those students fortunate enough to be in her care. She represented the School and the ACT with distinction as a National Council Member of the Australian Schools Library Association from 2007. Gai’s association with the School has been long, fulfilling and rewarding, with her four sons also walking these halls as students. We wish her well for her retirement, forever grateful for her time at CGS.
KEN RAVEN Ken Raven joined Canberra Grammar School five years ago as the Junior School Director. Immediately, students, families and staff found his open-minded, caring and professional approach to all he undertook a major asset to the community of the Primary School. He donned his Akubra hat as he made time to greet children as they arrived each morning, shared the playground with them and as they made their way home. Ken joined the School the year that we started transitioning to co-education from Year 3 onwards. His insights and knowledge of change management and his compassionate leadership style allowed for a welcoming and smooth start for students and staff alike. He was instrumental in the proactive planning and implementation as the Primary School reached over 900 students. Ken was appointed to the position as Director of Student Life and was Acting Deputy Head of Primary in his last year at CGS. He valued learning and was constantly balancing the demands of raising two beautiful daughters with his wife Fiona, studying for a Business degree and engaging in all the professional development of a teacher and leader. His considered and wide range of skills meant he could swiftly adapt from the needs of students and families in Years 3 to 6, to the needs of a whole Primary School in 2019. It has been a privilege to work with Ken. He will be remembered for his considered action, kindness, relentless energy, empathy, knowledge, and for living out his values each and every day. Ken was the perfect mix of practice and strategy. We wish him every happiness as he embarks on his Head of Primary role at Great Southern Grammar in Western Australia.
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CGS ALUMNI NEWS PAUL MCKEOWN In this book of edited memoirs, former Headmaster of Canberra Grammar School, Paul McKeown, reflects on a lifetime in education, encompassing his own schooldays at Canberra Grammar, to university years in Sydney and Oxford, to formative teaching experiences at the Dragon School, Outward Bound Mountain School, Northampton Remand Home and Geelong Grammar School’s Timbertop campus. Those who knew him will revel in his warm and insightful recollections; others will appreciate the wisdom and integrity of a man who helped to shape the educational landscape of Australia. Proceeds will be directed to the Paul McKeown Scholarship Fund at Canberra Grammar School.
AVAILABLE FROM: HISTORYSMITHS.COM.AU/SHOP ISBN 978-0-6489574-0-9 | RRP $44.00 Canberra Grammar School Email community@cgs.act.edu.au or call (02) 6260 9700
ROLLO’S WAY A lively memoir in which Nicholas Hasluck (CGS 1959) explores the life and times of his elder brother Rollo Hasluck (CGS 1958), an adventurer brimful of bright ideas and his own way of going at things. Rollo’s family moved from Perth to Canberra in the war years. His father’s work on post-war security led to further service in New York and a return to Perth in the late 1940s. Friendships forged in schooldays set the scene for Rollo’s convivial but precarious way of life in the 1960s. The story covers Rollo’s marriage, his involvement in local theatre, escapades on Rottnest Island, management of a night club, the making of deals in real estate during the nickel boom and some final travels. Rollo’s style is mirrored in a line marking the sudden end of his story: ‘He won laughter and the love of friends.’
AVAILABLE FROM: GINNINDERRAPRESS.COM.AU ISBN 978-1-76041-930-1 | RRP $32.50 Print and ebook editions are also available from Amazon, Book Depository and other online booksellers.
TONY MAY REMEMBERS CANBERRA GRAMMAR SCHOOL IN THE 1950s “I WELL REMEMBER OUR FIRST DAY, THE SCHOOL OVAL COVERED IN THE THICKEST FROST I HAD EVER SEEN…..”
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While much has changed at Canberra Grammar School over the decades, the frosty winter mornings in Canberra never do. We are always delighted to hear the stories and experiences of our alumni over the decades. In this edition, we hear from Tony May (CGS 1957) as he shares his memories of Canberra Grammar School in the 1950s on our website at: CGS.ACT.EDU.AU/GRAMMAR-IN-THE-50S
KERRY ALLEN NOMINATED FOR ACT SENIOR AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR Kerry Allen has been a leading educator in Canberra for more than 50 years, transforming the lives of children and teachers around her. Kerry was a Canberra Grammar School employee who embodied some of our most closely-held values. In her years of directing and teaching at primary schools, Kerry recognised the need for specialised training for music teachers. She co-founded the Orff Music Institute and was an early President of the Kodaly Institute. In these roles, Kerry worked to empower educators and change the way that music is taught in schools through innovative and enthusiastic approaches. Kerry volunteered in both organisations alongside her full-time teaching positions, inspiring countless children and their families, while providing mentorship and support for music teachers through regular workshops. She choreographed and directed musical performances that enabled Canberra youth to showcase their talents. As a University lecturer and tutor, Kerry continued to mentor students entering the world of education and contributed significantly to this field of knowledge. Upon retirement, she has dedicated her life to teaching children with particular difficulties, helping them to re-engage with the schooling system.
2021 REUNION & EVENT DATES
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SYDNEY ALUMNI REUNION
WED THU
JUL
BRISBANE ALUMNI REUNION
10
ADELAIDE ALUMNI REUNION
05
VINTAGE CLUB REUNION
THU
MELBOURNE ALUMNI REUNION
JUL
12
FRI
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MAY
FRI
ALUMNI REUNION WEEKEND
S AT
22
AUG
SEP
NOV
For specific information about any of these or other Alumni and Community events, please email us at alumni@cgs.act.edu.au or call +61 (2) 6260 9606.
STAY CONNECTED WITH ALUMNI If you’re not connected already, you could be missing out on eNews, reunion information and networking opportunities! If you or someone you know has lost contact with the School, reconnect by email or social media. COMMUNITY@CGS.ACT.EDU.AU LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/CGS-ALUMNI
CGSALUMNI.ORG.AU FACEBOOK.COM/ALUMNICGS SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 33
OUT OF THE ARCHIVES - CGS THEN & NOW Sh e af f e H o u
s e M in i f e t
e 2019
Dr Jus t in G a r r ic k He ad o f S c h ool 2011 – C u r re n t s C a n n on Ed wa rd H e ad of S ch o ol 1929 – 1947
Pre p
p l ay cl as s
ain the M
i ng i n 1953
Qu ad
Alum n i Ye a r 1
2 lu n ch 2020
Boarde rs return to school 1951 & 2020
Classroom in 1950s & Classroom in 2020
34 | CGS OUTLOOK
a ll t h e D in ing H in e im t l a e M 1950s
S ic k b ay
1950s
io n ro duc t P a m a Dr s 2019 H o r ro r f o p o Sh L i t t le 1951 Dram a Pr
oduc ti on
Lady Garran Bell 1950s
020
H ea lt h C li n ic 2
Cricke t on the M ain Ov al 19
61
A game of ten nis 1950s
1973 – 1974 st Sch ool boy 1 VII I Ro wi ng Cre w
Te n n is
020 C o u rts 2
2019 – 2020 Scho ol gi rl Ye ar 10 1st Q uad R ow ing Cr ew
SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 35
CGS FOUNDATION
GIVING IN 2020 It is an honour to once again thank all our donors for their ongoing support for our students in 2020. Thank you! We received $151,247 in gifts from 65 donors in support of our students via Scholarships, Campus Development and, for the first time, Hardship Bursaries that will provide fee-relief to families affected by the pandemic.
2020 DONORS Ben Ashman
Lars Ford
David Kenyon (CGS 1974)
Ayesha Razzaq & John Reid
Christopher Bashford
Cassandra Fox
Martin & Fiona Laverty
Kerri Rock
Leslie Bienkiewicz
John & Janelle Frewen
Keith Love
Stewart Rogers (CGS 1978) James & Allana Sainty
Charlene Brighenti
Dharini Ganesan Raju & Justin Garrick
John Maffey
Bernadette Brown
James Gaynor
Peter & Nicole McMahon
Paul & Susan Burt
David Gazard
Fiona McQueen
Karen & Stephen Byron (CGS 1987)
Julie Gilfillan
David Millar
Alan Carey (CGS 1977)
John Granger (CGS 1963)
Anne Moores
Reece Cummings
Rachel Gurney
Steven & Mandy Nyhof
Julie Davies (CGS 2023)
Brian Hall
Kent & Liesl Peters
Denita Wawn
John de la Torre
Erum Hamza
James & Marianne Peterswald
Alicia Welsh
Andrew & Jane Dimoff
Roderick Jewell
Stan & Susan Platis
Russell Wilson
David Evans & Rosemary Landy
Derek Jory
Meijun Qian
Anonymous (12)
Jenny Bramley
Bill & Patricia Maude
Jane Seaborn David Smart Vikki Templeman Dino Vido CH Warman Group
Donor details are listed as entered at time of donation. If you believe you have been omitted from this list, we apologise. Please contact us at foundation@cgs.act.edu.au
36 | CGS OUTLOOK
PATRONS Terry Snow (CGS 1961) & Ginette Snow
BENEFACTORS Susan & Ken Cooper (CGS 1961)
WE ARE DELIGHTED TO RECOGNISE THE ONGOING GENEROSITY OF OUR DONORS THANK YOU!
Peter Hazlehurst (CGS 1990) CGS Old Boys’ Association Kenyon Foundation The Podmore Foundation Anonymous (2)
FELLOWS Georgina & David Gazard Wendy & Vivian King
MEMBERS Hermina & Daryl Blaxland Karen & Stephen Byron (CGS 1987) Alan Carey (CGS 1977) & Family
Membership of the CGS Foundation provides an opportunity for our supporters to formalise their relationship with the School and engage with our students, staff and alumni. They join a distinguished and like-minded network of supporters who share our vision and aspiration that our students will become curious, creative, confident and compassionate citizens of the world.
Louise Clegg & Angus Taylor Dharini Ganesan Raju & Justin Garrick Jillian & Stephen Goggs Rusul & Ali Hameed Suzanne & David Prowse (CGS 1965) Irwin Prowse (CGS 1933) Thea De Salis Justin Dundas-Smith Carolyn Hawkins & Desmond Yip James Kilmartin (CGS 1989) Robert Mark Graham Matthews Helen & Simon McCredie Dennis Milin Janny & Hugh Poate Justine & Andrew Redwin Melissa & John Russell Lynne & Tony Tonks Dino Vido Heather & Samuel Whittle Anonymous (4)
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Ben Ashman Jane & Andrew Dimoff Romil Jain & Deepa Singhal Tim Harrison (CGS 1968) William Maude Geoffrey Mauldon (CGS 1943) Stephen Robson Canberra Embassy of the State of Qatar
SEMESTER TWO 2020 | 37
T +61 (2) 6260 9700 E communications@cgs.act.edu.au 40 Monaro Crescent, Red Hill ACT 2603 CGS.ACT.EDU.AU CRICOS Provider No 00580G