Independent Schools Guide 2021: Eastern, Ivanhoe & Valley

INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2021

WELLBEING FOSTERING RESILIENCE & CALM

INNOVATION TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM

LEARNING IN A CHANGING WORLD PLUS SCHOOL PROFILES

E A S T E R N , I VA N H O E & VA L L E Y

Ringwood, Victoria

“I loved tug of war! It was a fun way to learn about Forces and Motion. with my friends.”

The Motion Minions vs the Gravity Gang in Year 4

OUR GIRLS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES.

Head to our website to find out more.

www.ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au CRICOS 00974A

be inspired. be great. be you.

At MLC no dream is too big, whether it is technological, sporting, musical, creative, academic or a combination of all of these.

Offering one of the broadest curricula of any Australian independent school, we can support all of your daughter’s pursuits and provide her with the tools to achieve her best.

Discover our unique differences at whymlc.com.au

SUZY Conservationist of the future

Set for success

A

s the effects of COVID-19 reverberated around the world last year, schools acted quickly to keep students engaged and connected.

When campus gates closed, virtual classrooms opened; as physical events were cancelled, important milestones were marked in creative new ways; and as we all adapted to a new normal, staff and students rallied together to support each other and lend a hand to the wider community.

With a new school year now well underway and the hallways full of chatter once again, schools are using the experiences of 2020 as a springboard for innovation.

Mindfulness and gratitude are being practiced daily as part of wellbeing programs designed to foster resilience, with the simple act of connecting recognised as a powerful tool in calming young minds and lifting spirits. Beyond the classroom, co-curricular activities – from aerobics to chess – are providing a multitude of benefits to students’ emotional, physical, cognitive and social development.

Inside state-of-the-art “Makerspaces” and “STEM laboratories”, students are developing their critical thinking skills by tinkering, coding and problem-solving, while hands-on social and environmental programs are opening their eyes to real-world issues and equipping them with the skills to rise to the challenges of our times as compassionate and confident future leaders.

In this edition of Domain Review’s Independent Schools Guide, we explore how Victoria’s independent schools are adapting to our rapidly changing world and setting up their students for future success.

CONTENTS Camberwell Girls Grammar School

11

Caulfield Grammar School

13

ELTHAM College

15

Fintona Girls’ School

19

Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School

23

Kingswood College

25

Methodist Ladies’ College

29

Presbyterian Ladies’ College

31

Siena College

33

Strathcona Girls Grammar

37

Tintern Grammar

39

Trinity Grammar School, Kew

41

Wesley College

45

Xavier College

47

Yarra Valley Grammar

51

COVER IMAGE: FERRAN TRAITÉ

EDITOR \ JESSICA GOLDING SENIOR BUSINESS MANAGER, EDUCATION \ KIMBERLY BARRY EDUCATION ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE \ KATE WITTON PRODUCTION & EDITORIAL \ MEDIAXPRESS

Independent Schools Guide 2021 is published by Domain Holdings Australia Limited.

Printed by Elephant Group (Aust) Pty Ltd, 24c Victoria Street, Windsor, VIC, 3181 and distributed as a special supplement of Domain Review. All material published in the Independent Schools Guide 2021 is copyright and no part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

Domain Holdings Australia LImited and all related companies (together the “publisher”) hereby expressly disclaim, to the full extent permitted by the law, all and any liability whatsoever (including any liability for damages, consequential damages, costs, expenses or the like, “liability”) to any person howsoever arising from or in connection with any copy, information, advertising or other material in Independent Schools Guide 2021 (“copy”), including, but not limited to, any liability arising from or in connection with any action or inaction by any person in reliance on any copy, and each consequence of such action or inaction. The publisher also expressly disclaims any and all liability arising from or in connection with any negligence whatsoever of the publisher. Inclusion of copy must not be construed, deemed of inferred by any person to constitute any endorsement of the same by the publisher.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

7

FOSTERING RESILIENCE & WELLBEING

The pandemic has resulted in student uncertainty but these programs aim to hand them control.

BY PETER HANLON

8

THE SIMPLE ART OF CONNECTING

W

hen Hugh van Cuylenburg wowed the Mentone Grammar community in 2016 with his presentations about the power of The Resilience Project, it invited a natural next step for the school’s wellbeing focus, which was already underpinned by Yale University’s RULER Program up to the end of year 9.

“We looked at our year 10 and VCE students and felt they needed something different,” Mentone Grammar’s director of student wellbeing, Cameron Lancaster, says. “The Resilience Project fitted with what we were looking to do – it’s tenets of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness fitted with the direction we wanted to go.”

Van Cuylenburg’s inspiration for The Resilience Project was time spent in northern India, living alongside people who had little yet were gloriously happy.

At Mentone Grammar, the connection it fosters as part of the curriculum – through groups of 16-17 students engaging with their mentors in roll call each morning, taking part in activities that have mindfulness and gratitude built in, and through longer weekly sessions for deeper exploration – has been powerful at a disjointed time.

“During COVID, the connections our staff and students had with each other were a reason we feel we coped with remote learning as well as we did,” Lancaster says. “It was those touch bases‚ the conversations, little things like, ‘We’re going to have a pizza lunch’, and everyone was online cooking their own pizza. We had‚ ‘Red Day’, ‘Funny Hat Day’, all sorts of things.

“They might sound simple, but if you can get the students buying into them,

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

they see that others are still doing the same things they’re doing. When students feel like they’re acting in isolation or are literally on their own, that’s when we worry more about their mental health. When they’re checking in and maintaining that sense of connection, that was very, very important for us last year.”

Rupert Saunders, a senior clinical advisor with Headspace, says the simple act of connecting can be a powerful tool in trying to calm the upheaval caused by

the pandemic and the uncertainty it has created about the future.

“Have conversations, frank and open, about how they’re feeling,” he suggests, an approach that can combat anxiety both at home and in the classroom. “You might get shut down, but you need to say, ‘That’s cool. I’ll come back to you when you’re feeling more comfortable. I’m here for you.’ Give that message of love and support.”

At Methodist Ladies’ College, teaching hope and optimism at such a time is

helped by concentrating on the small, everyday things that can be controlled and steering students away from dwelling on the uncertain big picture.

MLC’s director of student wellbeing, Lisa Gatliff, highlights the importance of creating certainty where possible‚ in building a routine around healthy eating, exercise and that vital act of connection‚ and finding positivity and happiness in helping others.

“We have a strong community service focus, on doing something beyond yourself,” she says. “It was really pleasing [in 2020] to see how many students took up their own individual ways of helping others in the community, doing things like knitting blankets for disadvantaged children in South Africa, or doing artworks for residents in aged care.

“For many of them, that sense of focusing outward was something they could do and be in control of.”

Recognising that visual contact between teachers and students was important for learning and wellbeing, every MLC student had a designated teacher to oversee their wellbeing. The school worked hard on maintaining these one-on-one catch-ups last year and has continued it since the return to face-toface learning.

The idea that every student has multiple support networks around them‚ classroom and wellbeing teachers, counsellors, co-ordinators, nurses‚ is strongly promoted. Gatliff sees young people who have engaged with these networks like never before and is optimistic about the resilience that such engagement has helped build.

“I think that’s a message of hope for the future,” she says.

‘It was really pleasing to see how many students took up their own individual ways of helping others in the community.

LISA GATLIFF

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

9

CRICOS 00141J

DESIGNED FOR EVERY GIRL

Come and meet our vibrant community at an Open Morning or School Tour and discover more about CGGS.

cggs.vic.edu.au

Camberwell Girls Grammar School

Senior School 2 Torrington Street, Canterbury VIC 3126 Junior School 4 Mont Albert Road, Canterbury VIC 3126

TH E BA SIC S

At Camberwell Girls Grammar School, girls not only enjoy equal opportunity, they enjoy every opportunity. They

Enquiries

participate fully in an environment where there are no

+61 3 9813 1166

boundaries. As a result, they whole-heartedly explore their

cggs.vic.edu.au

passions and interests and together, they create an

admissions@cggs.vic.edu.au

environment of strong academic achievement.

Years ELC – Year 12

We are fully committed to supporting young women in Principal Debbie Dunwoody With a strong 36-year career in education, Debbie Dunwoody is passionate about

becoming equal partners in shaping lives, shaping society and

An advocate for gender equality, she is focused on fostering compassionate leaders who are prepared to be catalysts for change.

Anglican

preparing girls for life and work in a rapidly changing world. We

Gender

offer learning in areas that have been traditionally male-

Girls (co-ed ELC)

dominated spheres and our future-focused programs start

Fees

the moment girls arrive so they can develop entrepreneurial

$22,000 (ELC) –

skills and become creative inventors.

developing courageous learners.

Denomination

shaping the future. We recognise the vital importance of

$31,500 (Year 12)

Every girl is welcome and every girl belongs. Our own

Boarding \ No

wellbeing program enables our girls to be comfortable with who they are and not what they are expected to be. Each girl

Scholarships \ Yes

matures into the best version of themselves in all areas of life,

ATAR \ 26 per cent of Year 12

with an awareness of the needs of others as much as

students in 2020 achieved an ATAR over 95*

themselves.

CGGS offers opportunities for every girl to create her tomorrow. For more than 100 years our girls have left the school with global perspectives, a determination to pursue their dreams and a passion to work towards positive changes in society.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

BY D E S I G N

CO - CURRICUL AR

S E RVI C E L E A R N I N G

WELLBEING

We design learning that helps

We know the benefits of a

We empower our girls to lead

Wellbeing is fundamental to

students develop important

balanced lifestyle and,

with humility and inspire

positive academic and social

transferable skills, alongside

therefore, opportunities to

them to make a difference by

growth. Our own model

discipline-specific

participate in activities

contributing to build a more

ensures a respectful, safe,

knowledge and skills. Our BY

outside the classroom are

just and sustainable world.

connected, nurturing and

DESIGN learning framework

endless. With over 70

Our Service Learning

encouraging environment

is a way of viewing the world,

offerings, from sport to

program and dedicated

exists so students can

anticipating change and

music and everything in

Service classes encourage

flourish in both academic

leveraging opportunities.

between – there is

our girls to take action.

and personal endeavours.

something for every girl.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

11

WHEELERS HILL

|

M A LV E R N

|

CAULFIELD

|

YA R R A J U N C T I O N

|

NANJING CHINA

Mind for life.

Caulfield Grammar School nourishes learners to know who they are, what they value and why they are valued.

We cultivate character, compassion, creativity and connection. Our learners are nurtured to find their own path, be themselves, and thrive to pursue greatness in life.

To register for a Campus Tour or Open Day visit caulfieldgs.vic.edu.au/visit-us To view our Video Tours visit caulfieldgs.vic.edu.au/video-tours WHEELERS HILL CAMPUS ELC to Year 12 MALVERN CAMPUS ELC to Year 6 CAULFIELD CAMPUS Years 7 to 12 BOARDING Years 9 to 12

Co-educational caulfieldgs.vic.edu.au +61 39524 6333

Caulfield Grammar School

Wheelers Hill Campus 74-82 Jells Road, Wheelers Hill VIC 3150 Malvern Campus 5 Willoby Avenue, Glen Iris VIC 3146 Caulfield Campus 217 Glen Eira Road, St Kilda East VIC 3183

TH E BA SIC S

Caulfield Grammar School prides itself on focusing on the whole person. We have a strong history of academic

Enquiries

achievement and are committed to exceptional results for our

Principal Ashleigh Martin A strong advocate for values-based leadership and

caulfieldgs.vic.edu.au

student’s learning journey. We believe in developing a “Mind

cgs@caulfieldgs.vic.edu.au

for life” so that learners are equipped with the mental,

Years

emotional and academic capabilities they need to follow –

Early Learning – Year 12

whatever path they choose.

Denomination

As a leading independent co-educational school, we proudly

Grammar – in the way we teach, the breadth of co-curricular

develop beyond their academic

Co-educational

valued. We cultivate compassion, creativity and connection.

Ashleigh

young people to

Gender

to know who they are, what they value and why they are These competencies are nurtured in several ways at Caulfield

believes in enabling

Anglican

offer a thriving learning environment that nourishes students

student-led learning, passionately

+61 3 9524 6333

students. We recognise, however, that this is only part of a

Fees ELC $19,308 – Year 12 $33,084

offerings and our commitment to every learner’s wellbeing.

Boarding \ Yes

We are known for our passionate vision for innovation in education, offering modern learning facilities and forward-

Scholarships \ Yes

thinking curriculum.

ATAR \ 85.8*

achievements to find

IB \ PYP – authorised to

their own individual

deliver. MYP – candidate

pathway.

school.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

I M M E RS I O N

E N VI R O N M E N T

CO - CURRICUL AR

WELLBEING

Students “learn by doing”

Our unique Yarra Junction

Sport, Music, Dance, Theatre

Our school-wide approach

through authentic real-world

campus challenges students

and Visual Arts opportunities

focuses on nurturing the

connection and

in a natural learning

designed to maximise

whole student to meet their

collaboration, developing

environment – developing

engagement for beginner to

spiritual, physical,

skills to navigate our rapidly

leadership and life skills to

elite level students –

intellectual, relational, and

changing world via Sport,

consider the effect of their

supported by outstanding

emotional needs –

Music, Language, Arts and

actions on the world around

resources and specialists.

cultivating a culture of care.

STEM programs.

them.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

13

Growing hearts and minds

Come and see how amazing a school day can be.

VISIT elthamcollege.vic.edu.au

Early Learning to VCE

ELTHAM College

ELTHAM College – Research Campus 1660 Main Road, Research VIC 3095

ELTHAM College – City Campus Level 2, 398 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

TH E BA SIC S

At ELTHAM College, we believe that school is a daring adventure where children learn to think for themselves in

Enquiries

preparation for a future of exciting possibilities. Our

+61 3 9437 1421

exceptional teachers and small classes enable students to be

elthamcollege.vic.edu.au

treated as individuals and to be given individual attention. We

enrolments@elthamcollege.

focus on the skills and attributes that make each of them

vic.edu.au

unique.

Principal Simon Le Plastrier Committed to ensuring that young people see life as a chance for unlimited learning, Simon Le Plastrier is a highly experienced and enthusiastic educator who has worked in coeducational, independent education for more

Years

At ELTHAM we are committed to creating spaces and

ELC – Year 12

opportunities for collaborative learning. Our young people are encouraged to see life as a chance for unlimited learning, while

Denomination

we have the privilege of helping to “grow the hearts and

Non-denominational

minds” of the next generation. Our curriculum integrates

Gender

literacy and numeracy into a wide range of experiences,

Co-educational

ensuring that learning is meaningful and constructive.

Fees

We’re constantly adapting to the changing needs of young people and their world. We support them on their learning

Please see our website

journey to unlock their talents through one of Victoria’s

Boarding \ No

broadest curriculums. Most importantly, our teachers guide

Scholarships \ Yes

each young person to become empowered with the selfconfidence and independence to manage all aspects of their

ATAR \ Average 79*

future lives.

than 40 years.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

SCIENCE

H O S PI TA L I T Y

C I T Y CA M P U S

RESILIENCE

Students are encouraged to

ELTHAM owns and operates

Our City Campus provides

Resilience is built through

explore, innovate and

a Hospitality Training Centre

the opportunity for Year 9

real experiences and by being

collaborate. Academic skills

and fully functional cafe and

students to gain significant

out of our comfort zone.

are developed within

restaurant called Swipers

personal and academic

With care and empathy our

engaging modules that

Gully. The centre allows Year

development. Specifically

community was supported

specifically promote the

10, 11 and 12 students to

designed to respond to the

as we all transitioned

value of STEAM (Science

participate in a number of

learning and social needs of

through different learning

VET and VCE options .

young people navigating their

environments throughout

way to adulthood.

2020.

Technology Engineering Art Mathematics) in education.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

15

TECHNOLOGY AND THE CLASSROOM

STEM subjects provide opportunities for critical thinking and problem solving.

BY PETER HANLON

16

NAVIGATING THE REAL WORLD

M

icah Wilkins doesn’t remember the acronym STEM being used in his school days, which ended in the early 2000s, around the time it was popularised. Now, as head of digital learning and innovation at Camberwell Girls Grammar School, the catch-all for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is part of his everyday world.

Yet for all of the advances made in how science and technology is taught in the classroom, the principle behind STEM learning remains the same as when Wilkins took on an elective called electronics in year 9 and used a soldering iron, among other tools, to construct a small recording device. (He laughs, recalling that his never actually worked, while another classmate’s exploded.)

“The thinking then is not dissimilar to what we’re trying to get our students to do now,” he says. “We’re working with real-world problems; we’re using tools of the trade; we are asking big questions and being curious with our learning.

“It’s that whole process of problemsolving, tinkering, playing, taking risks and trying different things to see if they work. That’s the essence of what we’re trying to do in STEM programs at school.”

Dean Pearman, head of digital learning and practice at Wesley College, agrees that for all of the wonderful learning environments that school Makerspaces and STEM laboratories now offer students, to see them as purely the domain of the technologically minded is to miss a crucial part of the picture.

At Wesley, digital technology studies sit under the holistic-approach-to-

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

learning umbrella that envelops every class and subject, from prep to year 12. It recognises the importance of technology in the life of the community and is used not simply to design and build amazing things but to embed the necessary skills in cyber safety and in digital privacy and wellbeing that will help young people thrive after walking out through the school gate for the last time.

“There are misconceptions around

STEM and what it means,” Pearman says. “When you start to suggest that you have to be innately good at technology to be involved in STEM spaces and labs, you’re missing a whole range of other avenues in which students can work in that very same space.

“Our approach is, ‘You’re a maker’‚ you can be a baker, a fashion designer, an interior designer. It’s not just pigeonholing students to use technology;

it’s how they think and solve problems that we’re most interested in.”

At CGGS, a fleet of robots including NAO, DASH, EV3s and SPHERO help students learn coding, which Wilkins simplifies as “the language that sits behind all the web interfaces we see, all the apps we use and many of the games we play”. Yet behind the otherworldliness of the “bots” are much broader learning opportunities.

“Through robotics we ask, ‘How are we developing those important transferable skills such as critical thinking and creativity? How are we developing teamwork and organisation?’

“Doing STEM for us is, yes, you will learn some of those techy skills that are important. But underpinning that is a way of seeing and navigating the world that is more important,” says Wilkins.

“Many schools can talk about their laser cutters and 3D printers, their NAO bots and SPHEROs, but on the ground, what does it actually look like, and what does it mean for learning?

“For us, it’s about developing the thinking of our students.”

At Wesley, the remote learning experience of 2020 underscored for Pearman that technology at its core is a building material, and that young people will find meaningful ways to use it no matter what hurdles appear in their path.

The broader benefits make the STEM experience all the more compelling.

“When you have been through our Makerspace or STEM lab during your educational journey at Wesley‚ to solve problems and be exposed to a designthinking process will set our students up for when they go into the workforce,” Pearman says.

‘Yes, you will learn some of those techy skills that are important. But underpinning that is a way of seeing and navigating the world that is more important.’

MICAH WILKINS

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

17

Fintona Girls’ School

79 Balwyn Road, Balwyn VIC 3103

TH E BA SIC S

At Fintona, we see the extraordinary in every girl.

Our size allows for deeper learning in the classroom and

Enquiries

greater participation across a broad range of co-curricular

+61 3 9830 1388

pursuits. Here, students have more opportunity to discover

fintona.vic.edu.au

passions, develop skills and prepare for life after school.

registrar@fintona.vic.edu.au

We’re known not only for the excellence of our teachers, but

Years

for an environment where students have more access to their Principal Rachael Falloon Rachael Falloon commenced as Principal in 2018.

Her goal is to develop young women who are agile learners – capable, confident and curious; young women who know themselves deeply, embrace opportunity and contribute positively to the world.

teachers. Beyond consistently outstanding VCE and NAPLAN

ELC – Year 12

results, the benefit of our approach is seen in our independent

Denomination

and articulate graduates who go on to excel in their field.

Non-denominational

In 2021, Fintona celebrates 125 years of providing a well-

Gender

rounded education that inspires new interests and unlocks

Co-educational ELC; Girls

new pathways. This year will also see the opening of our new

only Prep – Year 12

STEM building, the Annie Hughston Centre, named after the

Fees

school’s founding principal.

Prep $17,684 –

Our long tradition of education at the highest standard continues today, as girls master the skills they will need for the

Year 12 $30,340

future with confidence, energy and drive. Our mission is to

Boarding \ No

deliver a dynamic learning journey, with our exceptional alumni

Scholarships \ Yes

as living proof.

We invite you to learn more about Fintona by talking with

ATAR \ Median ATAR is 91.1, Dux 99.7*

our principal, students and staff on a school tour.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

E XC E L L E N C E

OPPORTUNITY

DEVELOPMENT

WELLBEING

We offer a diverse and

We balance a diverse

A smaller school and class

A culture of belonging and

challenging approach to

education with engaging

sizes allow us to see, know

wellbeing is at the centre of

academic excellence that

activities beyond the

and connect with every

school life. All Fintona staff,

celebrates a love of learning

classroom, including choir,

student. Our focus is on

including our School

across a wealth of

music ensembles, Guides,

unlocking potential and

Counsellor, provide

disciplines. Our curriculum is

house competitions, sport,

inspiring passions. At

confidential and individual

immersive, integrated and

drama, public speaking,

Fintona, every student is

support, alongside programs

underpinned by real-world

debating, Duke of Edinburgh,

enabled to thrive.

designed to develop

applications.

study tours and many clubs.

resilience and leadership.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

19

Heart set on a school?

Find a home in its catchment.

You can now search by school name on Domain, and we’ll show you properties to buy or rent in that catchment.

Download the app

Discover the Top Performing School in Melbourne’s North.

Based on 2020 VCE Class Median Study Score and Percentage of Scores of 40 and Above.

2021 SCHOOL TOURS Take a personal School Tour with one of our Student Ambassadors and meet our Principal along with key School staff.

Wednesday 5 May

Tuesday 19 October

Thursday 24 June

Friday 12 November

Tuesday 3 August

Visit our website to find out more or to book a School Tour.

ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au

OUR GIRLS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. CRICOS 00974A

Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School

123 Marshall Street, Ivanhoe VIC 3079

TH E BA SIC S

Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School is a forward-thinking community of learners who are thoughtful in their choices and

Enquiries

brave in their actions.

+61 3 9490 6222

Ivanhoe Girls’ is an open-entry school with more than 850

ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au

students (from ELC to Year 12). This means that Ivanhoe Girls’

enquiries@ivanhoegirls.vic.

is small enough to focus on each student as an individual

edu.au

learner, yet large enough to be able to offer a broad range of Principal

Years

subject and co-curricular choices.

Deborah Pries t

Three Year Old (ELC) –

The school has a special culture that is spoken about by

Year 12

parents, students and staff. There is a warmth, a friendliness An experienced educator who commenced at the school in 2018, Dr Priest is

Students are encouraged to develop a broad range of encouraged to achieve academic excellence, as well as develop leadership skills and teamwork in a supportive and

women as individuals

stimulating environment. Students also have the benefit of

outstanding leaders in our community

Gender

thinking and learning skills and strategies, and each girl is

developing young

to take their place as

Anglican

through the gardens and become a part of the school family.

passionate about

and preparing them

Denomination

that is hard to describe but experienced by those who walk

Girls only (including ELC) Fees Prep $18,620 – Year 12 $28,000

developing resilience and self-esteem in an environment that

(includes all costs)

encourages respect for the individual, together with an

Boarding \ No

understanding of others.

and on the

Our students are evidence of what we do well. Articulate,

global stage.

courageous, critical thinkers who are generous of spirit, have a

Scholarships \ Yes ATAR \ Median 89*

life-long love of learning, and who have a voice and use it to create change. Because at the end of the day, Our Girls Speak For Themselves. * Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

S C H O O L T O U RS

L E A D E RS H I P

WELLBEING

MUSIC AND DRAMA

Tours commence at 9am

Experiences abound through

To prepare and empower our

The school is renowned for

sharp on: Wednesday, May 5;

the many formal positions

students for tomorrow’s

its great Music and Drama

Thursday, June 24; Tuesday,

offered in sporting teams,

world of tomorrow, Ivanhoe

program with a wide range of

August 3; Wednesday,

cultural pursuits, House,

Girls’ fosters belonging and

performance opportunities.

September 1; Tuesday,

tutor groups and in other

engagement, to provide

Students can learn a musical

October 19; Friday, November

co-curricular areas where

mentoring and to explicitly

instrument or undertake

12. Register for a tour via our

students are elected to

teach the competencies

speech and drama training in

website.

positions of responsibility.

required to build social-

a co-curricular lesson

emotional health.

situation.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

23

WELCOME TO THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION

Kingswood College has a bold vision: to be a world class school known for our innovation, collaboration and engagement, where our students’ potential soars because we nurture and challenge them to know themselves and achieve their personal best.

Kingswood College is an independent co-educational school where students from kindergarten age to Year 12 develop confidence and skills for lifelong learning.

Join us and become part of something great. www.kingswoodcollege.vic.edu.au or call 9896 1700 CRICOS Provider No 00150G

Kingswood College

355 Station Street, Box Hill VIC 3128

TH E BA SIC S

Kingswood College is rethinking education for a brighter future. The world has changed beyond imagination. We believe

Enquiries

it’s time to transform education too. We can’t keep educating

+61 3 9896 1700

using an outdated 19th-century model as our base. After all,

kingswoodcollege.vic.edu.au

nothing is more important than your child’s education. At

kwc@kingswoodcollege.vic. edu.au

Kingswood College we’re not waiting for the future to arrive.

Principal Elisabeth Lenders Elisabeth Lenders joined the college as Principal in 2011 and she has a genuine passion for nurturing the strengths and talents of each individual to achieve their personal best.

We’re shaping our own – for the benefit of all our students.

Years

That’s why we’ve developed an inspiring new approach to

ELC – Year 12

learning called the Kingswood Future Learning model.

Denomination

promotes an array of cross-curricular skills in a hands-on

Gender

learning environment.

Co-educational

School days now look and sound different, with no bells and

Fees

a much more flexible timetable. The traditional school uniform

Year 7: $24,336; Year 12:

has been replaced with active wear and each day involves

$27,376

physical activity.

Boarding \ No

Future Learning removes existing barriers to education and

She is also the Chair

expands traditional classroom structures with collaborative,

of the Council for

project-based learning using proven strategies. Our teachers

Strategic Education.

Uniting Church

Developed from extensive research, Future Learning

Scholarships \ Yes ATAR \ Median 85.15*

mentor students, closely monitoring their progress and growth at a personal level so they can go out into the world with confidence.

We’d love to meet you on a School Tour, so you can discover the Kingswood College difference for yourself.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

L AT TI C E

I N N OVATI O N

C O L L A B O R ATI O N

E N G AG E M E N T

Learning And Teaching

Our students live in a fast-

Collaboration is a powerful

Engagement is about winning

Through Innovation,

changing, borderless world –

tool that shares wisdom,

hearts and minds – ensuring

Collaboration and

so they need a

solves problems and helps

that students understand

Engagement. LATTICE is a

contemporary, futures-

build a community of caring

the purposes of their

leading edge curriculum

focused education.

learners. Collaboration

learning, and their

framework developed by

Innovation is more than just

creates an environment that

application to the real world.

Kingswood College. It is a

improving education, it can

maximises our students’

We empower our students

whole new way of teaching

help create a learning

individual and collective

through teaching them

and learning for life in the

environment that challenges

potential to achieve.

about how they learn and

21st century.

and inspires.

they love it!

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

25

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS & COMMUNITY

A key lesson from the lockdowns of 2020 was that resilience can be learned.

BY JESS GABITES

26

ADAPTABLE AND AGILE MINDSET

T

he challenges of 2020 have helped nurture resilient students and taught valuable lessons in how to be adaptable and creative.

“Living and learning through a global pandemic required a whole new level of adaptability,” says Diana Vernon, Principal of Methodist Ladies’ College in Kew. “Teaching is all about building relationships with the students in your class and, suddenly, to find yourself engaging with a computer screen is enormously challenging.

“Similarly, for our students to have to adapt from attending school with the endless social interactions to being based at home engaging through their computer screens required enormous adaptability from everyone.”

When Melbourne went into its first lockdown in March 2020, school campuses were shuttered and teaching moved online. It was a challenging and unprecedented time for teachers, students and their families as they were forced to navigate a new way of learning.

Despite the difficulties, many lessons were learned. New-found resilience, flexibility and creativity were just some of the takeaways, which are now helping students and teachers navigate a new school year.

Vernon says that, among other things, 2020 reinforced the school’s strong relationships across the college community and the importance of established information technology systems.

A focus on sustaining engagement through classes, departments, teams and community online events meant the school community remained connected in a meaningful way.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

“Relationships are a key focus for learning at MLC, and our experience over the year reinforced the strength of the relationships that we have across the entire community,” she says.

“Additionally, the technological systems we already had in place through Microsoft Teams, class OneNotes and our learning management system meant that our staff and students made the

A DV ER T IS IN G F E AT UR E

shift to online delivery very swiftly and very successfully.”

To support student wellbeing, as an integral element of good learning, the school, which has approximately 2000 students, developed the MLC Continuous Learning and Wellbeing Program.

The program included scheduled timetables, albeit with shortened live lessons and increased break times.

“The core of our wellbeing program was to have regular one-on-one wellbeing check-ins with every student, which focused on building relationships and providing an easy avenue for students to seek help and engage one-on-one.”

Feedback from students and families helped the school to refine its online learning program.

“The survey results from our community were extremely positive.

While a limited measure, year 12 VCE, VCE VET and IB results at the end of the year were among the best in the college’s history.”

For year 12 student Ally Spain, online learning had its benefits, including the chance to try different co-curricular activities online.

“Online learning gave me an opportunity to discover more about myself as a learner, and I gained a lot of resilience – I had to,” she says. “One of the biggest positives for online learning was gaining more confidence in asking questions because it was easier and not as much pressure as asking them in front of a class.

“My teachers also understood how hard it was and were very receptive if you needed help.”

Vernon believes 2020 gave students authentic learning experiences in being resilient and responding to changing circumstances.

“I was particularly proud of the way that so many of our students responded to disappointment, thinking creatively and being positive to ensure that the online alternative to whatever event was cancelled was memorable and engaging.

“We have the confidence that we can adjust and adapt quickly when needed.”

‘Relationships are a key focus for learning at MLC, and our experience over the year reinforced the strength of the relationships that we have across the entire community.’

DIANA VERNON

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

27

be inspired. be great. be you.

At MLC no dream is too big, whether it is technological, sporting, musical, creative, academic or a combination of all these.

Discover the possibilities at our 2021 Open Mornings: mlc.vic.edu.au/openmornings

JULIA Art expands her creative horizons

Methodist Ladies’ College

207 Barkers Road, Kew VIC 3101

TH E BA SIC S

An education at MLC is unique. As a large girls’ school, we provide unrivalled opportunity through one of Australia’s

Enquiries

broadest curricular offerings – across VCE, VCE VET

+61 3 9274 6316

(vocational subjects with an industry qualification), and the

mlc.vic.edu.au

International Baccalaureate (IB).

admissions@mlc.vic.edu.au

We embrace curriculum innovation; our students try new

Years

skills, take risks and challenge the status quo. They are

MLC Kindle (6 weeks – 5

Principal

individuals, they are creative, they are problem solvers. The

years), Prep – Year 12

Diana Vernon

experience of 2020 saw MLC adapt smoothly and effectively

Gender

to remote learning, culminating in one of our most successful

Girls only

years of results for the Class of 2020. We will continue to build

(MLC Kindle – co-ed)

on our experience of 2020, to best support the learning for our

Fees

students and the engagement across our community.

Prep – Year 12:

Passionate about educating young women, Diana is committed to empowering the dedicated and enthusiastic members of the MLC staff team, with individual professional development enabling them to inspire MLC students to be the “citizens the world needs”.

$19,800 – $33,180

Our extensive co-curricular offerings provide something for

See website for MLC Kindle

everyone, whether your daughter is a high-level athlete or musician, or wants to participate for fun. Our students leave

Boarding \ Yes

the college with not just one friendship group, but with many

Scholarships \ Yes

across different interests, year levels and houses.

ATAR \ Median ATAR: 90.4*

As an open-entry school, we celebrate our diverse, inclusive community where students from all walks of life and backgrounds learn and achieve together.

As educators, our responsibility is to prepare the next generation for their lives as adults in a rapidly evolving world.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

R E S I LI E N C E

WELLBEING

R E M O T E S IT E S

E XC E L L E N C E

Faced with the challenges of

We engage in research-

Our renowned residential

Our students consistently

2020, MLC students showed

based design for our learning

programs in regional Victoria,

achieve some of the state’s

incredible maturity, initiative

and wellbeing environments.

MLC Banksia (Years 5-8) and

best results, as part of a

and positivity. Our integrated

In 2021, we opened our

MLC Marshmead (Year 9),

holistic, well-rounded

wellbeing framework,

Dr Wood Learning Centre,

focus on sustainability of

education. Our students are

extensive staff resources

for Year 9 students. This

self, the community and the

encouraged to participate

and supportive homegroup

provides flexible and

environment, with strong

fully in our broad co-

and coaching programs

collaborative indoor learning

links to the Kew curriculum.

curricular program and

equipped our students with

areas with integrated

aspire to be the best versions

the tools to thrive.

outdoor spaces.

of themselves.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

29

curious see the world through creative eyes

Imagine. Discover. Thrive. At Presbyterian Ladies’ College, students learn to explore their creativity and help to shape the world around them.

Visit plc.vic.edu.au to discover more.

FINDING THE ANSWERS THAT SHAPE THE QUESTIONS

Presbyterian Ladies’ College

141 Burwood Highway, Burwood VIC 3125

TH E BA SIC S

For almost 150 years, PLC has been at the forefront of girls’ education. We strongly believe in inspiring our students to

Enquiries

follow their passions, explore every opportunity and achieve

+61 3 9808 5811

to the very best of their abilities.

plc.vic.edu.au admissions@plc.vic.edu.au

Nurtured within a strong Christian community, our girls care

Principal Cheryl Penberthy An inspiring leader at the forefront of women’s education, Cheryl is passionate in preparing young women for every opportunity and to develop the skills, outlook and character they need to become the leaders of tomorrow.

and respect one another, acquiring the skills and self-

Years

discipline they need to be global citizens with an informed

Boarding: Years 7 – 12

understanding of other cultures and the world around them.

Denomination

At PLC our focus is on the development of the whole

Presbyterian

student. Our holistic wellbeing program supports each girl’s

Gender

academic, emotional, social, creative, physical and spiritual

ELC – coeducational. Prep to

wellbeing. Personal achievement across all areas of ability and

Year 12 – girls only

endeavour are carefully nurtured and celebrated as part of

Fees

their individual learning journey.

19,388 – $34,008

Located on 16-hectares of magnificent park-like gardens,

Boarding \ Yes

students from ELC to Year 12 and Boarding have unbounded space to live, work and play. Our beautiful natural

Scholarships \ Yes

surroundings help stimulate their learning and offers ample

ATAR \ Median 95.2*

space for personal exploration, quiet reflection and active physical engagement.

We encourage families to visit during one of our many School Tours and see first-hand what sets us apart and discover why your daughter will benefit from a life-changing educational experience at PLC.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

WELLBEING

E XC E L L E N C E

C O M M U N IT Y

I N N OVATI O N

Our holistic Student

PLC is proudly one of the

As a Christian school, PLC

Our teachers inspire our

Wellbeing program is

Australia’s leading schools

celebrates its faith and is

students from the earliest

designed to support each

and is ranked as the No 1

committed to reflecting the

age to think beyond

girl at the different stages of

NAPLAN school. Two thirds

loving nature of God in all

boundaries and to work

her development; balancing

of girls achieve 90-plus

areas of school life. We

collaboratively to solve

resilience with a healthy and

ATARs in VCE and IB and they

develop young women with

complex problems utilising

positive mindset and

go on to become leaders

strong values and beliefs and

real-world technology and

providing the knowledge

across all fields of endeavour.

the strength and compassion

creative thinking within a

to help those around them.

global context.

and skills to achieve her very best.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

31

Siena College

815 Riversdale Road, Camberwell VIC 3124

TH E BA SIC S

Siena College is a Catholic school in the Dominican tradition, offering young women an education which will inspire and

Enquiries

challenge them to make intelligent and responsible use of

+61 3 9835 0200

their personal gifts and develop a lifelong love of learning.

siena.vic.edu.au admissions@siena.vic.

Our students have a daily, lived experience of women as

edu.au

leaders at all levels, from a broad based Student Representative Council, to the women from past decades on

Years

Principal

whose shoulders we stand. Our patron, St Catherine of Siena,

Years 7 – 12

Elizabeth Hanney

broke the bonds of what was expected of a woman in the 14th

Denomination

century by speaking truth. She challenged those in power and

Catholic

committed herself to a life of prayer and service of others.

Gender

Elizabeth Hanney has significant experience in educational

Our Dominican tradition places emphasis on diversity and

leadership and a

and find joy in our work, our learning and our community.

passion for providing

Our motto, Veritas, challenges us to search for truth

a future-focused, faith-based education for young women. Elizabeth

women. We encourage our students to engage in critical

Siena in 2020.

website for 2021 fees Boarding \ No Scholarships \ Yes

Siena College offers a richly stimulating and contemporary education that makes student learning exciting for young

and commenced at

Please refer to College

and a strong sense of justice and outreach to others.

has worked in

for the past 27 years

Fees

through prayer and contemplation, a commitment to study

Catholic Education and Diocesan roles

Girls only

the unique gifts of every person. We are inspired by each other

reflection on the world, we nurture their individual gifts and talents and build their self-esteem and sense of connectedness.

C U R R I C U LU M

S T U D E N T VO I C E

C O M M U N IT Y

S T U D E N T LI F E

Our learning program is

We believe encouraging

Our students and wider

Secure and respectful

dynamic and innovative,

student voice strengthens

community are passionate

relationships enhance

catering for each student’s

academic achievement and

advocates for environmental

student learning, allowing a

spiritual, academic, social

fosters workforce readiness.

sustainability and climate

comprehensive and enriching

and emotional development.

Our students are encouraged

action. We promote social

education. An extensive

Students are inspired to be

to take up leadership

justice, inclusion and care for

co-curricular program

critical, creative and

opportunities, developing

all, as one human family.

encourages students to

reflective thinkers with a

skills to shape their world

explore their possibilities in

respect for curiosity and an

for good.

music, sport, debating and

open mind.

performing arts.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

33

ENGAGING WITH REALWORLD ISSUES

Hands-on programs are opening students’ eyes to real-world issues and setting them up for success.

BY JOANNE BROOKFIELD

34

RISING TO THE CHALLENGES

H

anging in the corridors of Siena College in Camberwell are various embroidered textiles, handmade by the Kopanang women from Tsakane, South Africa. The Kopanang community project was created to provide these women, many of whom have been impacted by HIV/AIDS and endemic poverty, with the opportunity to learn embroidery and craft skills, which enable them to generate a small income.

“That’s a really important visual reminder to the girls that our community extends to these people,” says Bronwyne Ilott, head of justice education at Siena, a Catholic girls’ school in the Dominican tradition. Each year – in non-COVID times, at least – year 11 students have the opportunity to travel there for one of the school’s two immersion programs. The other is an indigenous immersion program in the Northern Territory, offered to years 9, 10 and 11 students.

“It’s a true immersion in every sense of the word,” says Ilott. “They leave comfortable, suburban Melbourne and they actually go and live in the homes of these women.

“It’s transformative. Girls come back changed in all sorts of ways,” she adds, giving the example of a student who was so moved by developing this new perspective on the world that she went on to study global politics at university and is looking at humanitarian work.

“She would not be unique, in that, that’s a lingering effect of that kind of experience.”

Siena isn’t the only school tackling real-world topics in and outside the classroom by providing their students with experiences and programs that are not only allowing them to address the

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

issues of our times, like social justice and climate change but equipping them with the skills to rise to these challenges as future adults and leaders.

Yarra Valley Grammar, an Anglican co-ed school in Ringwood, embraces a World Religions Week and Diversity Week. “We’ve taken students out of the school to experience a range of cultural and social settings to open their eyes,” says chaplain Paul Joy. To learn about other beliefs has meant

visits to places of worship from Islamic, Buddhist, Jewish and Catholic faiths.

“A highlight is always the Sikh temple in Blackburn who wouldn’t let us leave without serving us lunch – that’s 150 students all sitting in rows on the floor,” says Joy. Diversity Week has included visits to Chinese, Italian and Hellenic museums and students rolling up their sleeves and pitching in with feeding the elderly, disadvantaged students and the homeless.

Like Siena, which has an Eco Warriors group, formed with students across all year levels as part of its commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (a global agenda, adopted by countries in 2015), Caulfield Grammar School is also encouraging students to learn more about the natural environment and sustainability in a hands-on way at its Yarra Junction campus.

In the mid-1940s, the Cuming family donated 335 acres to the school, and the result was a campus that would “provide students from the city an understanding of rural life in a setting with a strong focus on community living”, explains campus head Tim O’Connor.

“Students are hands-on exploring paddock-to-plate concepts on the dairy farm, in the veggie garden and in the kitchen,” he says. “They are accommodated in purpose-built ecocabins that allow them to monitor their energy use. These things combine to encourage students to consider how our lifestyle choices can impact the world around us.

“We owe it to our young people to make learning relevant to them. Welldesigned learning experiences allow students to understand how theoretical concepts apply in a real-world setting.”

The benefits of this type of learning are transferable skills, like communication, negotiation, ownership and empathy, which apply beyond adolescence.

“Our students lead the way for our school in terms of wanting to see the adults around them make responsible environmental choices, so I’m very optimistic that sustainability will remain an important consideration for them as adults.”

‘[Students] leave comfortable, suburban Melbourne and they actually go and live in the homes of these women ... It’s transformative.’

BRONWYNE ILOTT

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

35

The future never stands still.

NOR SHOULD YO U R DAU G H T E R .

To discover your daughter’s full potential, book a tour today at strathcona.vic.edu.au Strathcona Baptist Girls Grammar School ABN 75 073 413 626

CRICOS No: 00577C

GIRLS U N S TO P PA B L E

Strathcona Girls Grammar

ELC, Middle School and Senior School Campus 34 Scott Street, Canterbury VIC 3126 Junior School Campus 173 Prospect Hill Road, Canterbury VIC 3126 Year 9 Campus – Tay Creggan 30 Yarra Street, Hawthorn VIC 3122

TH E BA SIC S

To become unstoppable, a girl must first be set into motion.

Strathcona is the catalyst of this life-shaping momentum,

Enquiries

ensuring each girl discovers a trajectory as unique and full of

+61 3 8779 7500

potential as she is.

strathcona.vic.edu.au registrar@strathcona.vic.

Upon their respective journeys, Strathcona girls break the

edu.au

stereotypes of an independent school education – and we’re Principal Marise McConaghy (BA, Dip Ed, ASDA, MACE, FAIM) Marise McConaghy is committed to the provision of exceptional educational experiences for girls and young women, in a place where learning as a life-long experience is embedded in a culture of care and community.

proud of it. Action, meaning and fulfilment take precedence,

Years

and are aptly expressed in the school motto: “Bravely,

ELC – Year 12

Faithfully, Happily”.

Denomination

Through a culture of academic excellence and a rich

Baptist

selection of co-curricular activities, girls grow and thrive.

Gender

Strong, resilient, empowered - at Strathcona these are more

ELC (co-ed) and girls only

than just words. We imbue our students with impetus tied to

from Prep – Year 12

each girl’s uniqueness and personal ambitions.

Fees

As a student’s voice and identity emerge, so does her

Available at strathcona.vic.edu.au

character. And it’s here that Strathcona truly sets itself apart.

A Strathcona girl is balanced in mind, body and spirit. Her

Boarding \ No

robust sense of self is founded upon respect, integrity,

Scholarships \ Yes

compassion, courage and genuine community spirit. Being

ATAR \ Median 91.6*

ready for life is not about being the best, it’s about being her best.

In essence, Strathcona affords our students the opportunity to discover who they really are, and to pursue their life’s potential by being themselves.

Or, put another way: unstoppable girls begin at Strathcona.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

D E S I G N T H I N KI N G

E XC E P TI O N A L S TA F F

WELLBEING

TAY C R E G G A N

Our unique Australasia

Our teachers have a high

Nominated as an Australian

Adolescence is a time of

Award Winning STEAM

regard for their students and

finalist for The Best Student

change and development.

Tinker Train Program from

their working relationships

Wellbeing Plan at the

Our dedicated Year 9

Early Learning to Year 9

with students are warm and

Australian Educator Awards,

campus offers our unique

actively lays the foundations

authentic. As a result,

Strathcona prides itself on

and innovative program

that will assist our students

students are engaged and

knowing each and every girl.

“Envision”. Preparing our

to thrive in a future where

motivated in their learning.

students for life by providing

change is the norm and

entrepreneurial and life

learning is ongoing.

ready skills.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

37

FOR EXCELLENCE AND CONFIDENCE SIDE BY SIDE, TURN TO TINTERN.

Alexandra Road, Ringwood East.

For more information visit tintern.vic.edu.au

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TINTERN.VIC.EDU.AU OR CALL 03 9845 7777

Tintern Grammar

90 Alexandra Road, Ringwood East VIC 3135

Tintern Grammar is set on 40 acres of beautiful tree-lined

TH E BA SIC S

grounds, with magnificent sporting fields, state-of-the-art

Enquiries

facilities and a working farm. At Tintern, we are committed to

+61 3 9845 7777

providing innovative learning and teaching programs that

tintern.vic.edu.au/

deliver personal excellence for each student, along with

admissions@tintern.vic.edu.

learning experiences to help them become responsible global

au

citizens.

Principal Bradley Fry Bradley Fry is committed to maintaining a vibrant, dynamic and student-centred learning environment. He champions the Parallel Learning

Years Three-year-old (ELC)

We offer students a broad range of co-curricular activities,

– Year 12

including sport, outdoor education, young farmers, performing arts, debating, music and more. Our world-leading

Denomination

Parallel Learning model supports the growth of our students

Anglican

through a crafted combination of single-gender and co-

Gender

educational classroom experiences.

Parallel Learning: Single gender Prep – Year 9;

Our community is led by the culture of all those within it,

Co-ed ELC and Years 10 – 12

particularly our dedicated, passionate and excellent teachers,

Fees

who foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, by

ELC 3YO (3 day) $12,516 –

delivering engaging and challenging curricular and co-

Year 12 $29,052

model that enables

curricular programs. I believe that great schools are made up

students to achieve

of committed communities who work together to achieve the

Boarding \ No

a balance of gender-

best possible outcomes for their students and I can assure

Scholarships \ Yes

specific learning and social development.

you that Tintern is committed to continuing its legacy as a

ATAR \ Median 81.9*

caring, vibrant and connected community.

We foster strong character in young women and men, enabling them to achieve personal academic excellence, strive with confidence, and aspire to create a better world.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

PA R A L L E L L E A R N I N G

PAT H WAYS

ENRICHMENT

WELLBEING

Our Parallel Learning Model

We offer a variety of

We are an open entry school

We have developed a

sees students educated in

pathways for students to

which caters to the needs of

Wellbeing Program to help

both co-educational and

achieve their desired

all students. We are able to

students build self-

single-gender settings

outcomes and future goals.

support academic needs of

confidence, encourage and

according to their age and

We provide choice and

highly able students through

foster self-belief and build

stage. This gives students

balance in the Senior College

our Horizon Program. It aims

resilience. The program helps

the perfect balance between

offering two study pathways,

to enrich, extend and

students to develop

academic and social

VCE and VCE/VET, as well

enhance the learning of

resilience, courage and

development.

as extensive course and

highly able students.

demonstrates how to care

careers guidance.

for and show real empathy.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

39

Learn Lead Belong

At Trinity, we are proud to offer a holistic education which empowers boys to explore their passions and build strong foundations for their future. We focus on the individual: the development of the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, physical, social and moral self.

With our rich and varied academic and co-curricular programs, Trinity students are inspired and challenged to become the best young men they can be.

4 0 C h a r l e s S t r e e t , Ke w V I C 3 1 0 1 | + 6 1 3 9 8 5 4 3 6 0 0 | t r i n i t y . v i c . e d u . a u

Trinity Grammar School, Kew

40 Charles Street, Kew VIC 3101

TH E BA SIC S

Trinity Grammar School, Kew has educated boys from Melbourne and beyond for almost 120 years. Our traditions are

Enquiries

strong, and our motto “Viriliter Agite” – Act Manfully –

+61 3 9854 3600

remains our guiding principle. A modern view of manfulness,

trinity.vic.edu.au

however, requires much more than its traditionally ascribed

trinity@trinity.vic.edu.au

characteristics of courage and stoicism.

Years ELC3 – Year 12

We strive to make our students aware of the opportunities Principal Adrian Farrer Adrian joined Trinity from Cathedral College at the

that exist to be globally good – good in the world and good for

stimulating curriculum that engages our boys and challenges

our philosophy of balancing the academic, pastoral and co-curricular domains.

Boys

life lived well.

our 12th principal. His the whole person

Gender

integrity, courage and humility are a strong foundation for a Our teachers are passionate about delivering a broad and

aligns closely with

Anglican

personal and professional endeavours. Our values of service,

beginning of 2020 as focus on developing

Denomination

the world – as well as the opportunities to succeed in their

Fees $22,604 – $33,376 Boarding \ Yes

them to achieve their best. They have a genuine interest in connecting with each of the boys in their care, and helping

Scholarships \ Yes

them to develop positive relationships across the school. The

ATAR \ Median 89*

sense of community and inclusivity among students of all ages is strong thanks to our vertical peer mentoring structures and positive role modelling by senior students.

We believe a school can be judged on the quality of character of its graduates, and we are immensely proud of the achievements of generations of Trinity Grammarians.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

ACA D E M I C

SPORT

CO - CURRICUL AR

WELLBEING

Trinity is proud of our

Trinity competes in the AGSV

A wide range of co-curricular

Our vision is the holistic

students’ outstanding

Saturday morning

activities caters for the

development of each

academic results.

competition. All senior boys

interests and passions of all

student; spiritually,

Impressively, 21 of our 2020

choose a summer and a

boys. Activities include

emotionally intellectually,

cohort were in the top 1 per

winter sport from over 30

almost 30 different

physically, socially and

cent of the state, 49 per cent

options. Our playing fields at

individual and team sports,

morally, supported by our

achieved an ATAR over 90,

Bulleen provide facilities for

debating and public

religious and values-based

and 24 per cent achieved

tennis, soccer, rugby,

speaking, drama, musical

education and engaging

scores over 40.

football, hockey and cricket.

ensembles, chess and

personal development

bushwalking.

curriculum.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

41

FINDING PASSION AND PURPOSE

Engaging in co-curricular activities and clubs has a multitude of benefits.

BY JOANNE BROOKFIELD

42

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

T

he late British educationist and creativity expert, Sir Ken Robinson, defined in his book The Element a particular point at which natural talent meets personal passion, leading in turn to achievement at the highest levels.

“It’s a fantastic book that talks about how finding your passion really helps you find yourself,” says Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School’s head of senior school and deputy principal Davina McClure. “I think students do find their element when they have that choice of being involved in a co-curricular activity.”

At Ivanhoe, there are more than 30 clubs and activities available to students, in addition to performing arts groups and sports teams.

“We have more than 20 ensembles that include choirs, chamber groups, orchestras and bands,” she says.

As part of Girls Schools Victoria (GSV), Ivanhoe’s students have the opportunity to compete in week-day inter-school sports that include softball, badminton, volleyball, indoor cricket and hockey, with the school also offering its own sports program, which takes in different experiences like circuit training, aerobics and fencing. Those who might not be athletically inclined also have a range of other options, from areas as diverse as coding and chess, to gardening and knitting.

“Co-curricular activities are significant for enriching students on an emotional, cognitive, physical, and social level,” says Megan Fritsch.

As president of the Career Industry Council of Australia, Fritsch knows the value of such activities when it comes time for students to enter the workforce.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

“The rewards of co-curricular activities in schools have been researched pretty well and it is now ascertained that students who participate in these activities show better academic results, stronger relationships in schools and are more likely to lead a healthy and active lifestyle,” she says.

“Experiences and skills acquired through these co-curricular activities make students proactive and prepared for their future endeavours,” she adds, which is why they are so appealing to employers when they see them on CVs. For former Wesley College student Caity Price, this was certainly her

experience. Now 24, she is working at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission as a market surveillance analyst, having graduated with arts/law degrees and been admitted as a solicitor by the Supreme Court of Victoria. While attending Wesley from kindergarten through to year 12, she played violin in the orchestra and was on the school’s softball and skiing teams.

“In some ways, I think being involved in co-curricular things took some pressure off doing well purely in academics at school,” she reflects. “It was nice to get away from studying and get involved in school in a capacity that wasn’t just about class work.”

Discovering a passion for these sports, she also joined clubs outside of school, which opened up further social and travel opportunities. It also helped her transition into tertiary education.

“Especially at uni, I played a lot of softball, and went to UniGames, which enabled me to get involved in campus life in ways I otherwise wouldn’t have,” she says. This included founding a softball club, which led to her sitting as a board member on ANU Sport.

Looking back now, she can see so many other benefits that set her up for success.

Not only did playing sports teach her about “hard work, diligence and empathy in understanding people from different backgrounds”, she says she also acquired a suite of professional skills such as “managing people, following through with a strategic purpose, creating both long and short term direction of an entity, managing logistics and finances”.

“Without a doubt, I could not have gone without this on my resume when I was applying for grad jobs.”

‘Co-curricular activities are significant for enriching students on an emotional, cognitive, physical, and social level.’

MEGAN FRITSCH

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

43

TOURS REGISTER TODAY Reserve your place at an upcoming campus tour or explore Wesley through a virtual tour today. wesley tours

Wesley College

Wesley College St Kilda Road Campus 577 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004 Wesley College Glen Waverley Campus 620 High Street Road, Glen Waverley VIC 3150 Wesley College Elsternwick Campus 5 Gladstone Parade, Elsternwick VIC 3185

TH E BA SIC S

Wesley College is a leading co-educational, open-entry school.

Established more than 150 years ago, the college has enriched

Enquiries

the lives of thousands of students through its outstanding

+61 3 8102 6508

liberal, broad-based curriculum. Students from a range of

wesleycollege.edu.au

international locations and cultures choose Wesley because of

admissions@wesleycollege. edu.au

our strong tradition of academic excellence, outstanding Principal Nick Evans Nick Evans has a 20year association with the college as a student, teacher and

curricular and co-curricular programs and state-of-the-art

Years

facilities.

3YO ECLC – Year 12

Wesley has three metropolitan campuses in Melbourne:

Uniting Church

● Glen Waverley, three-year-olds to Year 12

Gender

● St Kilda Road, three-year-olds to Year 12

Co-educational

Wesley is one of the top Victorian Certificate of Education

in leadership roles.

(VCE) and International Baccalaureate (IB) schools in

Following roles as

Australia, and one of the only schools in Victoria to offer the IB

Deputy Headmaster and Head of Senior School at Melbourne Grammar School, Nick returned to Wesley in 2019.

Denomination

● Elsternwick, three-year-olds to Year 9

Fees $23,110 – $34,610 Boarding \ Yes

continuum from Primary through to Middle and Senior Schools. We provide a diverse breadth of subjects for

Scholarships \ Yes

students to choose from, including six languages.

ATAR \ 86.4*

We offer a True Education, ensuring all students are enthused with a lifelong desire to learn, grow and contribute to the world.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

CO - CURRICUL AR

WELLBEING

E X PE R I E N T IA L

B OA R D I N G

Our rich variety of co-

Each campus is organised

Wesley offers a unique

“Learning in Residence” at

curricular activities include

into three mini schools:

residential learning program

Glen Waverley enhances

visual and performing arts,

Junior, Middle and Senior

in Western Australia; and

students’ development

sport, music, outdoor

School. These provide

three Outdoor Education

across many areas. Students

education and community

holistic learning and pastoral

camps in Victoria at Chum

reside in contemporary

service, with 19 sports, 23

care suited to students’

Creek, Camp Mallana and

houses and access

bands, 21 chamber

developmental stages.

Lochend.

structured programs that

ensembles, 16 choirs, 10

focus on academic

orchestras, 7 musicals and

extension, life skills, career

4 plays.

preparation and wellbeing.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

45

A Xavier education can take you there.

BOOK A TOUR xavier.vic.edu.au/our-tours

Building the Possible x a v i e r.v i c . e d u . a u

Xavier College

Senior Campus 135 Barkers Road, Kew VIC 3101 Burke Hall Campus Studley Park Road, Kew VIC 3101 Kostka Hall Campus 47 South Road, Brighton VIC 3186

TH E BA SIC S

Xavier College strives to form exceptional graduates through inspiring learning experiences and our distinct Jesuit

Enquiries

character.

+61 3 9854 5307

Xavier College was opened by the Society of Jesus (the

xavier.vic.edu.au admissions@xavier.vic.

Jesuits) in 1878 and to this day continues to enlighten

edu.au

generations of fine young men.

Years

“Cura Personalis” is a term that encapsulates a Xavier Principal

College education. In caring for the individual, our focus is to

William Doherty

develop our students’ heads, hearts and hands. This is key to

“With passion and purpose, we seek to forge young men of

Denomination

engage successfully in the challenging world they are entering.

Catholic

At the Kostka Hall and Burke Hall campuses, the college

character, of conscience,

Kindergarten to Year 4) and Middle Years (boys only, Years 5

compassion and

to 8) students. At the Senior Campus, Senior Years students

competent challenge our

Gender Co-educational 3-year-old Kindergarten – Year 4; boys only from Year 5 – Year 12 Fees

(boys Years 9 to 12) also have the opportunity to board.

Year 12 – $31,210

Our students are at the heart of all that we do. Through

students to pursue

their Xavier journey, we strive to form exceptional Xavier

their best, to make a

graduates who are authentic, spiritual, positive, inspiring,

contribution, and so

resilient and empathetic.

unlock their every

Year 12

forming the “whole person”, which will help our students

enrols both Early Years (co-educational, three-year-old

commitment. We

3-year-old Kindergarten –

Boarding \ Yes Scholarships \ Yes

potential.”

ACA D E M I C S

S E RVI C E

SPORT

B OA R D I N G

Xavier College is a high

Embedded within the

Sport plays a significant role

Boarding has been a part of

performing academic school

philosophy of a Jesuit

in the life of a Xavier student.

the very fabric of Xavier

and has been consistently

education is a commitment

The college provides a

since 1878. With outstanding

ranked within the top

to service. Students are

unique, participation-based,

staff to student ratios, the

secondary schools in the

encouraged to be “Men and

challenging and rewarding

Boarding House maintains a

state. Students are

Women for Others” and to

program that offers 29

personal feel where all boys

supported in an environment

utilise their God-given gifts

different sports across the

are known and engaged by

where they can flourish and

to be of service to those in

college’s three campuses.

the specialist boarding staff.

pursue excellence in all

the community and beyond.

things.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

47

DEVELOPING LIFELONG LEARNERS

A modern grammar school offers more than a classic classroom education.

BY SARAH MARINOS

48

A FOCUS ON THE WHOLE STUDENT

Y

arra Valley Grammar’s motto, Levavi Oculos – “I lift up my eyes” – sums up the school’s forward-looking ethos. Since it was established in 1966, the co-educational school in Melbourne’s outer-eastern suburbs has earned a reputation for developing resilient and well-rounded students.

Led by principal, Dr Mark Merry, that work continues and has only been enhanced by the lessons of 2020. The upheavals caused by COVID-19 and the enforced shift to online learning presented a number of new experiences and opportunities for students, teachers and parents, says Andrew Lawrence, head of Middle School.

“Yarra Valley Grammar was already using a number of online learning management systems, so everyone transitioned well to being off-site.

Students and teachers knew what they had to do and they embraced the experience. Everyone was able to add more tools to their technological toolkit.

“The increased independence of students came to the fore during that time, and that will hold them in great stead going forward. The existing trust between students and teachers evolved even further and there was also a profound sense of camaraderie and connection that has stayed with us.”

Lawrence, who has been at Yarra Valley Grammar for 17 years, has seen the school evolve and progress. This year that evolution continues with the opening of a new landmark art, design and technology building.

“A grammar school traditionally focuses on academia but we are also

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

focusing on creativity because that is going to be critical for students moving through the 21st century,” says Lawrence.

“Our school develops the whole person and while there is a focus on academics and maximising each student’s educational potential, we want our students to achieve in all areas of

A DV ER T IS IN G F E AT UR E

schooling – in the classroom, on the sports field, in musical performances, drama productions and in activities such as debating and community service. We want them to be the best they can be, to be equipped with a range of experiences, and to have the transferable skills they can use later in life.”

Yarra Valley Grammar has long attracted aspirational students who are keen to take advantage of the broad educational opportunities and impressive amenities. But engaging with students to maintain their interest and enthusiasm to learn and explore is pivotal.

In the important Middle School years – years 7, 8 and 9 – this engagement is supported by offering subjects that resonate with young people.

“Students traditionally can arrive in years 8 and 9 and then switch off a little, so we offer key subjects and events that maintain their engagement and excitement, like school camps, community service and developing their entrepreneurial skills. We have some great ideas to further develop that area.

“We give students the opportunity to try new activities and encourage them to immerse themselves in everything that the school offers. We want them to find their interests, give new opportunities a go, to succeed and to learn when things don’t work as well for them so they build resilience. We also look to develop leaders and lifelong learners.”

The professional development of the teaching staff also remains a priority. As director of teaching and learning, Lawrence is responsible for the ongoing enhancement and support of teaching.

“The teachers at this school care deeply about what they do – we all want to get the best possible outcome for our students and everyone works together to achieve that,” he says.

“When I arrive at school on a Monday morning and I talk to the students, I feel a burst of energy. Working and studying here is a privilege.”

‘Students traditionally can arrive in years 8 and 9 and then switch off a little, so we offer key subjects and events that maintain their engagement and excitement.’

ANDREW LAWRENCE

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

49

Ringwood, Victoria

Yarra Valley Grammar

Kalinda Road, Ringwood VIC 3134

TH E BA SIC S

Established in the heart of Melbourne’s east in 1966 and set on a spacious 29-hectare campus, Yarra Valley Grammar

Enquiries

overlooks the Yarra Valley and picturesque Dandenong

Principal Dr Mark Merry Dr Mark Merry was appointed principal of Yarra Valley Grammar in 2009.

Prior to that he was Principal of Marcellin College and Deputy Principal at St Patrick’s College, Launceston. He has a

yvg.vic.edu.au

teachers who love what they do and seek to inspire them to

admissions@yvg.vic.edu.au

strive for excellence. The school offers an extensive range of

Years

contemporary opportunities and sets high standards of

Early Learning – Year 12

performance, encouraging all students to achieve their

Denomination

personal best.

Anglican

Great teachers are able to vary the way they teach to suit

Gender

the way each student learns. This takes patience, flexibility

Co-educational

and the ability to see things from the students’ perspective.

Fees

Yarra Valley Grammar’s team of teachers have a genuine

$9,600 – $28,500

interest in getting to know their students, so they can teach

(approximately)

them effectively, encourage them to achieve their best,

Boarding \ No

identify issues or problems, and care for their welfare.

Scholarships \ Yes

Yarra Valley Grammar’s broad curriculum is responsive to individual student needs, with extra opportunities for

doctorate in

enrichment and support. Key learning areas include Art,

educational

Design and Technology, Business Studies, English, Health and

psychology.

+61 3 9262 7700

Ranges. Our students excel under the guidance of great

ATAR \ Median 86.75*

Physical Education, Humanities, ICT, Languages, Mathematics, Music and Science. Students study a common curriculum until the mid-secondary years and then a range of diverse electives for senior years is offered.

* Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

R E S I LI E N C E

TECHNOLOGIES

L A N G UAG E S

MUSIC

A student wellbeing program

We offer a range of subjects

Yarra Valley Grammar

Students begin their musical

in conjunction with The

within Digital Technologies

introduces the French

journey in ELC, throughout

Resilience Project has been

that explore television, film,

language to students in

junior school and are

implemented across the

sound, photography, games,

junior school. Students are

encouraged to continue in

School. This program

programming and digital

then given the choice of

secondary years. Our music

focuses on empathy,

technologies. VCE subjects

Indonesian, French or

programs build students’

mindfulness, gratitude and

include Applied Computing,

Chinese in secondary school.

confidence by involving them

emotional literacy to

Data Analytics, Software

Chinese as a First Language

in vocal and instrumental

encourage healthy mental

Development and Media.

is also offered at VCE level.

performances.

wellbeing.

I N DEPE N DE N T SCHOOL S GU IDE 2021

51

WHEELERS HILL

|

M A LV E R N

|

CAULFIELD

|

YA R R A J U N C T I O N

|

NANJING CHINA

Mind for life.

Caulfield Grammar School nourishes learners to know who they are, what they value and why they are valued.

We cultivate character, compassion, creativity and connection. Our learners are nurtured to find their own path, be themselves, and thrive to pursue greatness in life.

Our expansive Wheelers Hill Campus welcomes students from 3 years old, who can continue their learning with us to Year 12.

To register for a Campus Tour or Open Day visit caulfieldgs.vic.edu.au/visit-us To view our Video Tours visit caulfieldgs.vic.edu.au/video-tours

Co-educational E L C t o Ye a r 1 2 caulfieldgs.vic.edu.au +61 3 8562 5222