Independent Schools Guide 2021: Stonnington & Boroondara

INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2021

WELLBEING FOSTERING RESILIENCE & CALM

INNOVATION TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM

LEARNING IN A CHANGING WORLD PLUS SCHOOL PROFILES

STONNINGTON & BOROONDARA

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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

9

Caulfield Grammar School

11

Fintona Girls’ School

13

Geelong Grammar School

17

Haileybury 21 Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School

23

Kingswood College

25

Korowa Anglican Girls’ School

27

Loreto Mandeville Hall Toorak

29

Melbourne Girls Grammar

31

Methodist Ladies’ College

35

Presbyterian Ladies’ College

37

Preshil

41

Ruyton Girls’ School

43

Sacré Cœur

47

Shelford Girls’ Grammar

49

Siena College

55

St Catherine’s School

57

St Michael’s Grammar School

59

Strathcona Girls Grammar

63

Trinity Grammar School, Kew

65

Wesley College

67

Woodleigh School

69

Xavier College

71

Yarra Valley Grammar

75

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

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

9

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

11

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

13

FOSTERING RESILIENCE & WELLBEING

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

BY PETER HANLON

14

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

15

Geelong Grammar School

BOSTOCK HOUSE 139 Noble Street, Newtown VIC 3220 CORIO CAMPUS 50 Biddlecombe Avenue, Corio VIC 3214 TIMBERTOP CAMPUS Private Mail Bag, Mansfield VIC 3722 TOORAK CAMPUS

TH E BA SIC S

14 Douglas Street, Toorak VIC 3142

Enquiries +61 3 5273 9307

Principal Rebecca Cody

At Geelong Grammar School (GGS) we do things differently;

ggs.vic.edu.au

knowing it takes more than theory to make an impact beyond

admissions@ggs.vic.edu.au

the classroom. Our educational theory is intentional and

Years

enduring; we exist to enable wisdom.

ELC – Year 12

Students as young as three years of age can begin their GGS

Denomination

adventure at Bostock House or Toorak Campus. As they enter

Anglican

early adolescence, their learning continues into Middle School Joining the school in 2018, Rebecca’s approach centres on an unwavering commitment to the

Gender

at the Corio Campus, followed by a transformative year at

Co-educational

Timbertop. With enlivened spirit and tenacity, our students

Fees

return to Corio Campus to complete Senior School.

Please see our website

We are Australia’s largest co-educational boarding

Boarding \ Yes

philosophy and

community and celebrate a culturally rich blend of students,

practice of holistic

from rural to regional, interstate to overseas. We encourage

Scholarships \ Yes

education, and the

and celebrate diversity and want all our learners to feel a

ATAR \ Median 81.70*

far-reaching impact this has on shaping a buoyant, more

genuine sense of belonging within a caring and inclusive

IB \ Median 35*

environment.

adaptable and

At GGS, it is our privilege to enable wisdom by providing a

enlightened world.

holistic education that prioritises learning and academic skills, as well as the values of courage, curiosity and compassion.

We offer a unique pathway for growth; an educational experience that is academically challenging and underpinned by three strategic educational pillars; Adventure Education, Positive Education and Creative Education.

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

A DV E N T U R E E D

P O S ITIV E E D

C R E AT IV E E D

B OA R D I N G

Our unique Timbertop

Positive Education places

Our newest Strategic Pillar.

With ample open space and

campus provides learners

wellbeing at the heart of our

Cultivating the skills of

exceptional facilities, GGS

with a transformative year of

learning community.

communication,

uniquely satisfies a student’s

Adventure Education:

Equipping our learners with

collaboration, critical

desire for space and play,

experiential learning through

the knowledge and skills to

thinking, problem posing and

underpinned by a well-

and with nature helps to

nurture their own wellbeing

problem solving. Prioritising

established House System

develop competence in

and foster a deeper purpose

transferable competencies

that provides the structure

practical ways and promotes

to contribute to the

for young people to flourish

and support for young

independence and resilience.

wellbeing of others.

in a fast-changing world.

learners to thrive.

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

17

FORGING AHEAD IN THE VIRTUAL SPACE

When the foundations are strong, a school can embrace the challenges that lie ahead.

BY SARAH MARINOS

18

FROM OBSTACLE TO OPPORTUNITY

F

or the past 129 years, some elements of Haileybury have remained the same – the outstanding academic results, the calibre of its teachers and the focus on building a strong foundation of literacy and numeracy skills paired with analytical and creative thinking.

But the independent school has never rested on its laurels. Instead, under the leadership of CEO and principal Derek Scott, Haileybury has built a reputation for adapting and innovating to keep pace with an ever-changing educational landscape.

That ability to evolve to stay one step ahead was in evidence last year as the effects of COVID-19 reverberated around the world and schools faced the challenge of online teaching. For Haileybury, the challenge was swiftly converted into an opportunity with the lessons from 2020 being harnessed to strengthen the school’s approach to education further.

“For us, three things came out of the pandemic,” explains Scott.

“Firstly, the absolute importance of strong foundational skills in primary school literacy and numeracy. We were able to deliver that through 2020, and we ran a full virtual school day for our primary school children. Our testing at the end of the year showed that our primary school students learned at the same pace academically as they usually did in the classroom – they missed being in the classroom, but they learned.”

The second lesson from the pandemic was the real importance of people-topeople contact and how much students learn through playing and engaging with each other, says Scott.

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

“Thirdly, we saw how good educators could be at working in different ways and the great capacity of students to learn in different forms, such as online and in the virtual space.”

Haileybury long ago embraced the potential of technology to enhance the educational experience for teachers and students, and the school continues to forge ahead in the virtual space. Later

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

this year, based on major international and national research results, Haileybury will launch a new virtual school model.

“The virtual school will benefit our existing students and students outside Haileybury,” says Scott. “We have multiple campuses in Melbourne, and we have students across those campuses doing VCE who attend the same virtual class. We also have some classes running

between Melbourne and our Darwin campus. We are looking at using that model in junior and middle school and opening it up to students outside our school.

“There is great potential to open up a range of elective subjects that can be delivered in the virtual space and that space breaks down barriers around progressions of learning. For example, you can have a year 7 student who has a great aptitude for technology and coding, and they can take that subject in the virtual space and be operating at year 11 or 12 levels. They can follow their passion and build skills and fast-track that subject, but progress at the same level as their peers in other subjects, like humanities, for example.

“Differentiated individual learning is a real opportunity, and there have been many other opportunities brought about by the delivery of interesting subject matter and good teaching through the virtual space. Now is the time to take up those opportunities.”

Scott also believes it is time to step away from the concept of virtual and online learning as “remote” learning. He says “remote” has negative connotations, and instead, the virtual school and classroom is forward-looking and promises to add breadth and depth to the educational landscape.

“You have to look at the world young people are heading out into – it’s changing rapidly,” says Scott. “So, what does that mean in terms of core skills for students? Literacy and numeracy are still important, but so is the capacity to think and move quickly and to be flexible in how you approach the future.”

‘Literacy and numeracy are still important, but so is the capacity to think and move quickly and to be flexible in how you approach the future.’

DEREK SCOTT

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

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

19

Haileybury

Haileybury – Newlands and Senior School 855 Springvale Road, Keysborough VIC 3173 Haileybury – Castlefield 120 South Road, Brighton East VIC 3187 Haileybury – Edrington 138 High Street, Berwick VIC 3806 Haileybury – City

TH E BA SIC S

383 King Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003

Enquiries

Haileybury Rendall School – Darwin

+61 3 9904 6000

6057 Berrimah Road, Berrimah NT 0828

haileybury.vic.edu.au

Haileybury International School

admissions@haileybury.vic.

6 Gongxue Road, Gaocun County, Wuqing District, Tianjin, China

Principal

There is a reason more parents choose to send their children

Derek Scott

to Haileybury than any other school in Australia. As one of the

Under the awardwinning leadership of CEO|Principal Derek Scott, Haileybury has become one of

edu.au Years ELC – Year 12

Asia-Pacific region’s leading independent schools, we provide

Denomination

an environment in which every student matters every day.

NA

With campuses in Keysborough, Brighton, Berwick,

Gender

Melbourne, China and Darwin, Haileybury is acclaimed for

Parallel Education – boys and

outstanding academic results, small class sizes, extensive co-

girls share facilities but

curricular choices and state of-the-art facilities. The school

attend single-gender classes

academic schools

achieves exceptional national testing and VCE results, placing

with outstanding

Fees

it among Australia’s leading schools. It has high expectations

haileybury.vic.edu.au

the nation’s leading

NAPLAN and VCE results.

of students and provides the support they need to excel.

Boarding \ Haileybury

In 2020 Haileybury was named Non-Government Primary

Rendall School, Darwin

School of the Year and Deputy Principal (Junior School),

Scholarships \ Yes

Grenville Green was named Non-Government Primary School Principal of the Year at the Australian Education Awards.

ATAR \ Median 91*

Haileybury’s Parallel Education Model means students learn together until the end of Year 4, then attend separate schools on the same campus from Years 5 to 12. This approach recognises the diverse educational needs of girls and boys.

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

S O C IA L J U S TI C E

WELLBEING

SPORT

THE ARTS

Haileybury’s Program is built

We provide a supportive

Haileybury Sport aims to

The Arts are an integral part

upon social justice and a

environment, including a

promote participation in

of the curriculum. All

sense of fairness. This

Pastoral Care Program

healthy activities and

students enjoy aspects of

creates student awareness

tailored to each schooling

provide appropriate

visual art, music, drama and

of their community, as well

stage. A Health and

opportunities for all students

dance, which encourages

as their own self-worth. Each

Wellbeing Program runs from

of differing interests and

them to expand their minds

campus supports numerous

Preparatory to Pre-Senior,

abilities. Across the year,

and appreciate culture and

charities throughout the

while Senior School has a

girls and boys can choose

creativity through a wide

year.

Personal Excellence Program.

from more than 30 sports.

array of subjects.

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

21

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

Korowa Anglican Girls’ School

10-16 Ranfurlie Crescent, Glen Iris VIC 3146

TH E BA SIC S

At Korowa we want our students to be happy, self-aware, confident and capable young women, who graduate

Enquiries

understanding their responsibility and capacity to influence

+61 3 8808 8888

the world in a positive way.

korowa.vic.edu.au admissions@korowa.vic.

A leader in education since 1890, Korowa is renowned for its

edu.au

academic excellence, broad range of opportunities and Principal Helen Carmody With more than 30 years of experience in education, Helen is a dedicated leader who is passionate about the education of young people and providing them with the foundations to be successful, globally minded and socially just leaders of tomorrow in our changing and complex world.

nurturing community. Our VCE results consistently place us

Years

among the top schools in the state, but our girls are far more

ELC – Year 12

than an ATAR. They leave Korowa having achieved so much

Denomination

more, from their participation in the many co-curricular

Anglican

activities and service, to the leadership they have

Gender

demonstrated, particularly to our younger students.

ELC (Co-ed) Prep – Year 12: Girls Only

Built on the tradition of a broad-based liberal education, we continue to be agile and responsive to the new times in which

Fees

we live. We recognise that our young people want to be

ELC $14,852 – Year 12

prepared for an increasingly complex and challenging world

$34,780

future. They are curious and relentless in the pursuit of

Boarding \ No

knowledge and want to make real connections between

Scholarships \ Yes

school and life.

ATAR \ Median ATAR 91.27*

Across the school, the core curriculum content is taught in traditional subject domains, but with an integrated and practical application incorporating the 21st-century skills of creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and communication.

Our focus is on character education, mastery of skills and producing high quality work rather than test taking as we seek to make feedback relevant and meaningful.

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

WELLBEING

SPORT & WELLBEING

PE R F O R M I N G A R T S

KXP

Our Wellbeing programs are

Opening in 2022, our new

Korowa offers an

Korowa Expedition Learning

designed and embedded in

Sports and Wellbeing Centre

outstanding Performing Arts

(KXP) is an innovative style

everything we do. Tailored to

includes an indoor pool,

program including Music,

of learning for students

suit students’ stages of

multi-use sports courts,

Dance, and Drama. In

that is highly engaging,

development, these

gym, studio spaces,

addition to the core

creative and collaborative.

programs are delivered in a

consulting rooms and a

curriculum, there are many

There are three key elements

holistic way daily to support

rooftop netball court. This

co-curricular performing

of KXP – character

girls and ensure they thrive.

facility will support sport,

opportunities including

education, mastery of skills

wellbeing, drama and music

House Arts and House

and production of high-

programs.

Chorals performances.

quality work.

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

27

At Loreto Toorak she’ll learn justice, sincerity, verity, felicity and freedom...

Our Positive Education approach is grounded in our Loreto values and guided by our vision to create a learning community which is strengths-focused, engenders resilience and enables individuals to flourish.

2021 School Tours @ 9.00am; Thursday 27 May, Wednesday 15 September, Thursday 21 October Enquiries: +61 3 8290 7500 admissions@loretotoorak.vic.edu.au AN INDEPENDENT CATHOLIC SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ELC TO VCE

Loreto Mandeville Hall Toorak

10 Mandeville Crescent, Toorak VIC 3142

TH E BA SIC S

Loreto Toorak is an Independent Catholic Girls’ School embracing genuine values of freedom, justice, sincerity, verity

Enquiries

and felicity to foster a mutual respect and deep

+61 3 98238100

understanding of the individual and a compassion for the

loretotoorak.vic.edu.au

broader community.

admissions@loretotoorak. vic.edu.au

To become confident, self-assured women, girls need the Principal Susan Stevens Dr Susan Stevens, PhD Melb, MEd (EdAdmin), MMusic,

right challenges. Loreto Toorak has created an environment

Years

where your daughter will be nurtured, challenged and

Preparatory – Year 12

encouraged to discover her true self.

Denomination

is only one aspect of our holistic approach to education.

AMusA, Grad Dip (AdolHealth &

She overcame extraordinary opposition and hostility to found

Welfare), Grad Dip

the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM), known as the

MACEA, MAICD. Principal for 17 years, active contributor

academic program is integral to the education of heart and

organisations.

Fees $19,750 – $28,490 Boarding \ No Scholarships \ Yes

Today there are seven Loreto Schools in Australia and more than 90 throughout the world. An extensive and challenging

in several

Girls only (Co-ed ELC)

Loreto Sisters.

she chairs and is an on many boards

Gender

Established in 1924, the foundations began more than 400 years ago with a truly remarkable English woman, Mary Ward.

Theology, FACE,

Catholic

Excellent academic results are achieved each year, but this

ATAR \ Median 90.8*

mind, which is cherished at Loreto Toorak. A love of learning is fostered by specialist teachers who share a passion for their subjects with programs that aim to foster individual needs.

The opportunities we provide will challenge and extend your daughter, helping her to graduate with an inner belief that there is much she can achieve. * Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

R E S I LI E N C E

SPORT

MUSIC

L A N G UAG E S

Positive Education is taught

Physical education includes

Music is a rich and diverse

Four languages are taught at

throughout the school

20 different sports. A

component of our education.

Loreto Toorak: Chinese

incorporating the tenets of

member of Girls Sport

There are 25 ensemble

(Mandarin), French,

positive psychology.

Victoria, we compete against

groups available for

Indonesian and Italian. These

Designed to promote

23 girls’ schools during a

students. These include

are taught in our Junior

wellbeing as an integral

weekly competition. We

bands, choirs, orchestras,

School – Rathfarnham

component of the Loreto

engage many top specialist

instrumental ensembles,

through to VCE.

education, it supports and

coaches across several

chamber groups and voice

strengthens our existing

sports to challenge our

programs.

academic framework.

students.

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

29

Writing

Guitar

LEARNING

Project Work

Acting

Singing

INFLUENCE

Public Speaking YouTube Channel Educating Others

Family from Brazil

Travel CULTURE

Language

MEET JULIA...

Commenced: Year 3 Current age: 12

Creative communicator

MEET THE FUTURE

Melbourne Girls Grammar

Merton Hall (Year 5 – Year 12) 86 Anderson Street, South Yarra VIC 3141 Morris Hall (Prep – Year 4) 100 Caroline Street, South Yarra VIC 3141 Early Learning Centre 63 Clowes St, South Yarra VIC 3141

TH E BA SIC S

MGGS is a school where challenge and choice create opportunities for every girl to discover and pursue her

Enquiries

strengths, passions, and goals. We believe that an exceptional

+61 3 9862 9200

education is not only about academic skills, but also

mggs.vic.edu.au

emotional and physical wellbeing.

enrolments@mggs.vic. edu.au

We have always been a future-focused community and are Principal Toni E. Meath Principal Dr Meath believes that learning is for all. Education is about developing the whole person. Dr Meath and the school share a vision, mission and values to create an excellent learning environment.

innovative in our approach to preparing students for life in an

Years

increasingly complex and globally connected world. We focus

ELC – Year 12

on reinforcing strong values and lifelong skills like resilience

Denomination

and independence, instilling in our Grammarians the courage

Anglican

they need to excel in life beyond school.

Gender

Students engage in experiences that develop their learnings

Girls only

in a way that suits them, individual passions are encouraged

Fees

as we support each and every student: the Early Learning and

Please visit mggs.vic.edu.au

Junior Years provide the foundations of positive learning,

Boarding \ Yes

reinforcing that anything is possible, and where imagination, curiosity and inquiry lead to discovery; the Middle Years

Scholarships \ Yes

(Years 5-8) provide the opportunity to dive deeper into key

ATAR \ Information about

learning concepts with real-world experiences to assist

VCE results can be found on our website

understanding; the Senior Years (Years 9-12) provide the launching pad for self-motivated learning. Graduates of MGGS are bold, dynamic and courageous leaders who develop the resilience, persistence and confidence to achieve their best in any path they choose.

I N N OVATI O N

E N T E R PR I S E

WELLBEING

C R E ATIVIT Y

With a focus on personalised

We champion the

Holistic wellbeing is an

Project-based learning tasks

learning, students

development of enterprising

essential component of a

enable students to explore

collaborate and solve

mindsets. Students interact

healthy life. To support and

real-world problems and

problems while thinking

with companies and industry

extend every girl’s capability,

develop creative solutions.

critically. Students enjoy

sectors solving real-world

we provide dedicated staff,

We foster budding futurists

authentic opportunities to

problems, attend

facilities and programs.

who explore new ways of

engage with emerging

internships, attain micro

thinking and are empathetic

technologies as we arm the

credentials and meet visiting

and conceptual in their

next generation with skills

entrepreneurs to share

approach.

for the future.

experiences.

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

31

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS & COMMUNITY

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

BY JESS GABITES

32

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

33

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

35

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

37

TECHNOLOGY AND THE CLASSROOM

STEM subjects provide opportunities for critical thinking and problem solving.

BY PETER HANLON

38

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

39

THE PROGRESSIVE

ALTERNATIVE

Through the International Baccalaureate, Preshil delivers a rich, engaging and rigorous curriculum informed by leading pedagogical research and supported by a global network of leaders in education.

The Preshil community revolves around the uncompromising focus on and respect for the individuality, passions and future aspirations of each student.

A DEDICATED INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE WORLD SCHOOL Providing a Continuum of IB Education from Kindergarten to Year 12

Kinder & Primary: 395 Barkers Road Kew VIC 3121 | Secondary 12-26 Sackville Street Kew VIC 3121

preshil.vic.edu.au 03 9817 6135 registrar@preshil.vic.edu.au

Preshil

Arlington (Primary and Kindergarten) 395 Barkers Road, Kew VIC 3101 Blackhall Kalimna (Secondary) 12-26 Sackville Street, Kew VIC 3101

TH E BA SIC S

Founded in 1931, Preshil is Australia’s oldest progressive school. Co-educational, secular and proudly independent, at

Enquiries

our core remains an unshakeable commitment to encouraging

Principal Natalie Jensen Natalie is a passionate educational leader with a deep commitment to the progressive and ethical nature of Preshil, where she leads a nurturing and

preshil.vic.edu.au

respected as individuals in their own right. A confident sense

preshil@preshil.vic.edu.au

of self-worth is integral to our vision of success for every child,

Years

and students are supported to challenge ideas, think critically

Kindergarten – Year 12

and make ethical judgements.

Denomination

As a deliberately small school, the relationships between

Gender

and focused on achieving outstanding learning outcomes.

Co-educational

Whilst remaining academically rigorous, we continue as a

Fees

school that places genuine relationships at the centre of its

$17,100 – $27,600

operations.

Boarding \ No

The belief that education should prepare students to be

Scholarships \ Yes

active, engaged and open-minded contributors to their communities – both local and global – led to Preshil implementing a continuum of International Baccalaureate (IB)

underpinned by

Programmes school-wide. The IB philosophy perfectly aligns

student agency,

with Preshil’s focus on intellectual challenge, inquiry and

and critical thinking

Secular

students and their teachers at Preshil are sincere, respectful

inspiring culture

curiosity, creativity

+613 9817 6135

all children to set and achieve their own goals and to be

conceptually-driven learning.

WELLBEING

PY P : KI N D E R -Y E A R 6

M Y P : Y E A RS 7-10

D P : Y E A RS 11 -12

At our core are the

Voice, choice and ownership

The MYP affords an

Upon the completion of the

relationships that flourish

are key elements in the

intellectually vibrant

MYP, the DP addresses the

across our entire school

inquiry-based PYP. The

curriculum that respects and

needs of the whole person at

community, which allow the

carefully planned curriculum

supports the individual

the highest level. The school

children to thrive in their

is enriched by our unique

learner. The outstanding

boasts outstanding success

learning environments as

environment, giving the

Programme emphasises

in helping students achieve

they build the foundations

students daily opportunities

personal choice, authentic

their first preference for

necessary for a lifelong love

to connect with nature

challenge and creativity.

their chosen pathways in life

of learning.

within and in addition to their

after school.

classwork.

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

41

At Ruyton we empower our girls to lead lives of impact and purpose, both now and into the future.

ruyton girls ’ school

12 Selbourne Road Kew VIC 3101 Australia Tel +61 3 9819 2422 @ruytongirlsschool www.ruyton.vic.edu.au

Ruyton Girls’ School

12 Selbourne Road, Kew VIC 3101

TH E BA SIC S

Ruyton Girls’ School was founded by Charlotte Anderson in 1878, a woman of great courage and determination who

Enquiries

believed in girls. Her vision laid Ruyton’s reputation for sound

+61 3 9819 2422

scholarship, opportunity and challenge for young women;

ruyton.vic.edu.au

maintained by those who follow in her footsteps. This belief is

registrar@ruyton.vic.edu.au

at the heart of all we do today.

Years Early Learning – Year 12

As a leading educator of girls with a reputation for Principal Linda Douglas A highly experienced educator with a deep connection to the

outstanding academic results and co-curricular engagement,

develop the resilience and grit necessary to lead purposeful

for providing young

lives.

and achieve their personal best.

Co-educational ELC,

seek to enrich the lives of our students, provide them with

Linda has a passion

develop holistically

Gender

individuality of each girl in a caring and safe environment, we

Ruyton community,

people in her care

Non-denominational

learning and leadership in the global community. Fostering the

opportunities to find their strengths and support them to

with opportunities to

Denomination

we are committed to preparing our students for a lifetime of

Girls Prep – Year 12 Fees Please visit ruyton.vic.edu.au Boarding \ No

Empowering our girls to grow with courage, character and compassion through future-focused learning programs,

Scholarships \ Yes

students are encouraged to develop a sense of agency and

ATAR \ Median 92.6*

social justice for self and other. By recognising and raising their voices, our girls learn how to effect positive change and make a difference.

Our Early Learning Centre, Junior School and Senior School are situated on one campus, emphasising our strength as a connected learning community and enabling many opportunities for collaboration, mentoring and role modelling. * Results are provided by the school, Domain does not warrant their accuracy

LEARNING

WELLBEING

Y E A R 4 PR O G R A M

C O - O R D I N AT E

Every student at Ruyton is

Wellbeing is embedded into

A flagship initiative in our

Sharing classes and co-

valued, supported and

every aspect of life at

Junior School, Year 4 at

educational learning with

challenged through our

Ruyton. Through whole

South House provides unique

Trinity Grammar School

personalised teaching

school, year level and

opportunities for our

during Years 11-12, this unique

approach, broad curriculum

classroom initiatives, a range

students to participate in

program provides the best of

offerings and opportunity for

of wellbeing programs and

innovative programs,

both worlds; co-educational

choice.

services are available to all

increasing the girls’

learning with all the benefits

our students, empowering

understanding and their

of a culture focused on

every girl to flourish.

independence as learners

believing in girls.

and thinkers.

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

43

NURTURING CURIOSITY & INTEREST

Science and the arts work hand in hand to inspire and engage young learners.

BY EFFIE MANN

44

BALANCING STEM AND THE ARTS

A

lannah Tuohy is “extremely interested” in outer space.

Mention the chemistry of icy moons or the possibility of extraterrestrial life and her voice brightens with enthusiasm.

“I’m looking at a course in bioinformatics and chemistry, and in the future, I’d like to work as a researcher,” she says.

The science whizz has an impressive record. Recently awarded an Australian Youth Aerospace Leader Scholarship and a virtual software development award, Alannah was selected to attend the National Youth Science Forum in Canberra in January.

She credits much of her success to the “supportive, tight-knit community” of Sacré Cœur, an independent Catholic college for girls, in Melbourne’s southeast, where she is in year 12.

“The teachers really take the time to make sure each person understands the concepts and gets the support they require,” she says.

It’s no surprise, then, that Sacré Cœur inspires girls’ involvement in STEM disciplines, but the school also champions the creative arts.

Indiana Rickard-Smith, who graduated in 2020 with a perfect score in media and has been selected to exhibit her work alongside other high-achieving students in Victoria’s Top Arts program, says her artistic passions and abilities were “validated and encouraged” by the school.

It’s this cross-curricular approach, connecting scientific and artistic exploration, that Sacré Cœur principal Adelina Melia-Douvos says supports contemporary learning.

“We offer our girls a wide-ranging and

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

highly engaging curriculum, where they can explore their passions and interests,” she says. “They will always find an area of study in which they can really excel, something that ignites their passion and gets them excited about coming to school each day.”

A new, four-level building, which will open to students during term two, neatly underscores her point.

Designed by architect Paul Hede, of Hede Architects, the impressive modern space links the existing older buildings

beautifully. It will provide students of all ages with access to state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, research libraries, and studios for photography and art.

“Our holistic approach to education will be complemented by the new building” Melia-Douvos says.

“In bringing together classes across disciplines, we are encouraging students to remain curious and interested in all aspects of the curriculum.”

The spaces will flow easily between

each other and from indoor to outdoor, providing classrooms with a healthy dose of natural light and fresh air, and encouraging collaboration amongst students of all ages.

“The idea is ‘around the classroom’,” Melia-Douvos says.

“We want students to move around and find new ways to work together, to collaborate on projects comfortably and in an environment that inspires and supports them.”

With this at the forefront of the design, the new building has breakout areas throughout, where students can spill from classrooms and continue to discuss and work together in smaller groups.

Even the deep stairs have been designed for students to sit together and discuss what they’ve learnt in class.

A rooftop garden will be able to host larger plays and performances, bring multiple class groups together and double as a classroom when desired.

The building also has a modern attitude, with an energy-efficient design that keeps it cool in summer and warm in winter.

Other environmentally-friendly additions include solar panels and toilets that flush captured rainwater.

Melia-Douvos says a lot of consideration has gone into choosing furniture too. Adaptable modular furniture and cosy nooks encourage students to curl up with their reading material, research in comfort or gather with peers.

Colours and textures have also taken careful planning.

“We wanted to create rooms that are comfortable and soothing but also inspiring and conducive to learning.”

‘In bringing together classes across all disciplines, we are encouraging students to remain curious and interested in all aspects of the curriculum.’

ADELINA MELIA-DOUVOS

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

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

45

Her f u tu r e is b r ig h t With a proud tradition that has traversed two centuries, Sacré C±ur has always educated young women to meet the needs of an ever-changing world. Our experienced and empathetic teachers cultivate minds, hearts and hands, nurturing young women to embrace the future with courage and kindness. Guiding girls with care from Prep through to VCE, at Sacré &±XU we create confident and empowered young women.

Book a tour at www.sac.vic.edu.au -172 Burke Rd, Glen Iris.

Courage X kindness = the Sacre Coeur way

Sacré Cœur

Sacré Cœur

172 Burke Road, Glen Iris VIC 3146

TH E BA SIC S

The transformation of heads and hearts lies at the heart of a Sacré Cœur education. Our holistic approach to educating

Enquiries

young women unites academic endeavour with a deep

+61 3 9835 2700

commitment to each child; this is the truest expression of the

sac.vic.edu.au

Sacré Cœur way.

admissions@sac.vic.edu.au

Laughter, inclusivity, friendship and diversity of opportunity

Years

are evidenced in a Sacré Cœur education. Our students feel a

Prep – Year 12

Principal

palpable sense of belonging and connection to their lived

Adelina

experience and benefit from of a rich diversity of faiths within

Denomination

Melia-Douvos A passionate and highly experienced women, Adelina

them to think broadly about issues impacting the world, we

student wellbeing, knowing it is the foundation to the holistic growth and achievement of each student. She has been at Sacré Cœur since 2011.

Girls only

community. Through immersion experiences, a shared commitment to social justice and an education that guides

deep commitment to

Gender

The girls are guided to be innovative and responsive to their

educator of young Melia-Douvos holds a

Catholic

our community.

Fees Prep $4,783 – Year 12 $27,379 Boarding \ No

nurture our students to be agents of change. They are encouraged to raise their voices and to look outwardly,

Scholarships \ Yes

applying their wisdom and skill.

ATAR \ 90.05*

Our students learn from highly qualified and passionate teachers, many of whom are curriculum experts and VCE assessors. Our teachers embrace each child as an individual, meeting their learning and wellbeing needs; as a result, our young women flourish and achieve exceptional results.

We are privileged to belong to an international Sacred Heart family of over 150 schools across 41 countries.

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

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Y E A R 9 PR O G R A M

C R E ATIVIT Y

N E W FAC I LIT I E S

Children are naturally

Called Notre Monde, the

Creativity is a cornerstone of

From mid-2021, we will enjoy

enthusiastic and curious.

program focuses on fostering

a Sacré Cœur education.

exciting new learning spaces

The learning experiences we

growth in resilience,

From the creative and

in our four-storey science,

deliver build upon their

communication, teamwork,

performing arts to design

technology, arts and

inquisitiveness in a

creativity, leadership and

thinking in STEM, we nurture

resource centre. Students

stimulating and caring

problem solving.

creative thinking so that our

will learn in inspiring and

environment. Our new fee

Mindfulness, community

young women can see and

collaborative spaces,

schedule makes it more

service and physical

solve the challenges of today

including a rooftop garden

accessible than ever before.

challenge also form an

and the future.

and specially designed junior

integral part.

playgrounds.

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

47

Connected. Challenged. Cared for.

Book a school tour at shelford.vic.edu.au Shelford Girls’ Grammar 3 Hood Crescent Caulfield, phone 03 9524 7333

Shelford Girls’ Grammar

3 Hood Crescent, Caulfield VIC 3161

TH E BA SIC S

With a rich and proud history of educating girls, Shelford Girls’ Grammar is a small, inclusive school with a wonderful sense of

Enquiries

community. For 123 years Shelford has been a strong advocate

+61 3 9524 7333

for girls’ education, preparing girls and young women for a

shelford.vic.edu.au

complex and changing world.

information@shelford.vic. edu.au

Our school has an outstanding academic tradition and Principal Katrina Brennan With a child-centred philosophy of education, Katrina’s

offers students a range of subjects, right through from Prep to

Years

VCE level. Shelford has exceptional Visual and Performing Arts

Prep – Year 12

programs, extensive sporting opportunities and a strong co-

Denomination

curricular program including exchanges, camps, debating and

Anglican

a unique Year 9 Challenge program.

Gender

Our students flourish because they learn in a community

passion for engaging

that nurtures, stimulates and challenges them, and in which

and empowering her

they are encouraged to be courageous. Our girls are able to

students is matched

explore, be curious and try out new things in a supportive,

by her deep connection to the Shelford community and respect for the diversity within it.

Girls only Fees POA Boarding \ No

positive environment, where high standards and the pursuit of

Scholarships \ Yes

excellence are part of the historical fabric of the school.

Exceptional teaching staff who are highly qualified and passionate educators work collaboratively to know and nurture each and every student. ● A wonderful sense of community ● Inclusive, welcoming students from all backgrounds ● Each student is known and valued ● Outstanding academic tradition and excellent VCE results ● Extensive sporting opportunities ● Exceptional Visual and Performing Arts programs

R E S PE C T

I N T E G RIT Y

PA S S I O N

C R E ATIVIT Y

Sitting at the core of every

Courteous, reliable, honest,

Within a culture that fosters

Shelford students are taught

interaction at Shelford,

loyal and trustworthy

a love of learning, Shelford

to embrace the challenges of

students are taught to

behaviour is encouraged and

students are given the

the 21st century and respond

respect any difference in

developed in students. They

freedom, courage and

with curiosity, imagination

others, be mindful of the

make ethical and principled

confidence to try new things,

and innovative thinking.

needs of their peers and care

decisions for themselves,

and encouraged to discover

for their community through

and our community.

and develop their strengths

engagement and service.

and interests.

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

49

An Educated Choice.

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ENGAGING WITH REALWORLD ISSUES

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

BY JOANNE BROOKFIELD

52

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

53

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

55

She

who dares

Courage to take risks Curiosity to explore Strength to lead

ST CATHERINE’S SCHOOL www.stcatherines.net.au

Toorak VIC ELC to Year 12 Day & Boarding School for Girls (ELC includes boys)

St Catherine’s School

17 Heyington Place, Toorak VIC 3142

TH E BA SIC S

St Catherine’s girls dare to reach their potential through approaching all endeavours with the courage to take risks, the

Enquiries

curiosity to explore and the strength to lead. The moment a

+61 3 9822 1285

student walks through Heyington Gates, there is the

stcatherines.net.au

possibility to prosper, behind every door, in every classroom

admissions@stcatherines. net.au

resides an impending miracle.

Years

Here, there is a deep commitment to exploring every Principal Michelle Carroll Mrs Michelle Carroll is passionate about providing a progressive, innovative and engaging educational environment, where individual strengths flourish and girls are

possibility with every student, expanding a sense of

3YO ELC – Year 12

themselves and nurturing the promise that resides within

Denomination

every student.

Non-denominational

The school environment plays a key role in fulfilling the

Girls Prep – Year 12

the practice of inquiry. At St Catherine’s, our academic

Fees

approach to learning aims to empower students to think, both

$15,460 – $36,040

creatively and critically, developing a deeper understanding of

Boarding \ Yes

themselves and the complex world in which we live.

Scholarships \ Yes

A strong focus on the skills required in the 21st century including problem solving, communication, negotiation,

into confident and

presentation, planning and research skills encouraging a

women.

Co-educational – ELC,

education which, at its core, develops rigorous thinking and

empowered to grow capable young

Gender

potential of each student and our commitment is to an

climate that enables our girls to speak out, speak often and feel comfortable in doing so. Our students graduate well prepared for their futures with the support provided to explore tertiary pathways and career opportunities that enhance their capacities and individual employability.

WELLBEING

ELC

JUNIOR SCHOOL

SENIOR SCHOOL

The physical, emotional and

The environment at

Our Junior School education

Our new Senior Years

social wellbeing of our

St Catherine’s supports

embraces the Harvard

Academic Model includes the

students is at the forefront

every child to reach their

University led Cultures of

introduction of Independent

of all that we do at

potential through

Thinking approach. Small

Learning Tutorials (ILTs). ILTs

St Catherine’s. Our

exploration, imagination,

class sizes, personalised

embrace the benefits of both

integrated approach

discovery and belonging. Our

academic care and

face-to-face teaching and

encourages positive

range of specialist classes

exceptional educational

online delivery to include

relationships, a commitment

including PMP, Music, French

opportunities ensure

flexi-tutes, masterclasses

to learning and the

and STEM build on their

students engage

and asynchronous online

development of leadership.

sense of discovery.

purposefully with learning.

tutorials.

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

57

Apply now for 2023.

Limited places available for 2022.

Our future-focused and individual approach to each student’s journey ensures that they live meaningful lives inspired by a commitment to making the world a better place.

Visit stmichaels.vic.edu.au Co-educational | K–12 | St Kilda | 8530 3310

St Michael’s Grammar School

25 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182

TH E BA SIC S

St Michael’s is one of Australia’s leading independent coeducational schools, educating more than 1200 students from

Enquiries

Kindergarten to VCE.

+61 3 8530 3310

Educational excellence matters at St Michael’s. We prepare

stmichaels.vic.edu.au enrolments@stmichaels.vic.

young people to flourish in the contemporary context, and

edu.au

enable them to build the skills and develop the personal Principal HEAD OF SCHOOL Terrie Jones Commencing as Head of the School in 2018, Mrs Terrie Jones’ experience in educational leadership complements a demonstrated track

qualities that will serve them throughout their lives. St

Years

Michael’s staff members are committed to exercising and

3-Year-Old Kindergarten –

challenge students while facilitating their individual growth.

Gender

We encourage students to develop their identity as learners

Co-educational

and work alongside them to pave their way to the destinations

Fees

they wish to embrace beyond school.

$20,221 (Kindergarten) –

St Kilda. Our location provides a vast array of opportunities to business communities for the betterment of the world.

outcomes.

$32,535 (Year 12)

We have the advantage of being a K-12 school on one site in

innovative, evidence-

meaningful student

Anglican

Our rich and diverse curriculum and co-curricular programs

learn from and with the creative, academic, not-for-profit and

based curriculum

Denomination

autonomous learning, problem-solving and collaboration.

record in developing

that translates into

Year 12

extending each student’s capacity for critical thinking,

Boarding \ No Scholarships \ Yes

Students perform, exhibit, play sport and learn in some of Melbourne’s most iconic, creative and professional spaces.

Our welcoming and supportive environment enables each student to develop a strong sense of their gifts and to instil a purpose that will imbue their life with meaning.

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

K-12 E D U CATI O N

E XC E L L E N C E

WELLBEING

C O - E D U CATI O N A L

We have evolved our

Each student’s holistic

A focus on positive,

Learning together as equals,

approach to teaching,

development is our central

respectful relationships and

girls and boys develop a

learning and caring, building

concern. We strive for

trust gives life to the school’s

shared appreciation and

on our strengths as a

personal excellence in all

core values of dignity,

acceptance of each other.

Kindergarten to Year 12

learning areas, providing

respect, care and

Our students encounter a

school on one campus. We

students with clear

compassion, which are

range of approaches to

offer students greater

expectations and skilled

enacted daily in the quality

learning, personalities and

support, detailed guidance,

instruction while inspiring

of rapport that students

perspectives, underpinning

and increased diversity of

curiosity, motivation and

enjoy with their peers and

our commitment to

opportunities.

confidence.

staff.

inclusion.

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

59

FINDING PASSION AND PURPOSE

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

BY JOANNE BROOKFIELD

60

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

61

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

63

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

65

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

67

ADVENTUROUS

MINDS are expressive and imaginative.

Original, passionate and persistent.

Adventurous Minds create and innovate, �����������������������������������������������������������

BOOK YOUR PLACE AT ONE OF OUR REGULAR INFORMATION SESSIONS OR CAMPUS TOURS

www.woodleigh.school/enrol

M O R N I N G T O N P E N I N S U L A • E A R LY C H I L D H O O D T O Y E A R 12

5971 6100

woodleigh.vic.edu.au

Woodleigh School

Senior Campus and Main Reception – Years 7-12 485 Golf Links Road, Langwarrin South VIC 3911 Minimbah Campus – 3 YO ECC – Year 6 3 Minimbah Court, Frankston South VIC 3199 Penbank Campus – 3 YO ECC – Year 6 460 Mornington Tyabb Road, Moorooduc VIC 3933

TH E BA SIC S

A Woodleigh education provides more than just an excellent academic preparation for the future. It offers a journey of

Enquiries

experiential learning and discovery, which prepares each

+61 3 5971 6100

individual for life’s challenges beyond school.

woodleigh.vic.edu.au enrol@woodleigh.vic.edu.au

Woodleigh encourages students to be adventurous with

Principal

their learning. It affirms creativity, independence, self-

Years

motivation and initiative; elements you can sense as soon as

3YO ECC – Year 12

you enter the school.

Denomination

David Baker David is the progressive, community-minded principal who leads

Our three unique campuses, Minimbah in Frankston South,

passionate advocate for holistic education, he knows

Fees

boys and girls for adult life.

Visit website for details

We see the development of academic learning, personal

Boarding \ No

wellbeing, and student engagement as being interdependent.

Scholarships \ Yes

As a result, we promote the development of student outcomes across the essential elements of learning: the understanding of concepts, the acquisition of knowledge, the

staff flourish when

mastery of skills and the ability to perform meaningful tasks in

they have a sense of

real-world settings. We understand that such deep learning

and connectedness.

Co-educational

belief that this is the only suitable setting to educate both

that students and

agency, belonging

Gender

South, are entirely co-educational and committed to the

Woodleigh School’s development. A

Non-denominational

Penbank in Moorooduc and the Senior Campus in Langwarrin

happens best in safe, supportive and respectful environments where students can take risks, question their assumptions, respond creatively, and explore new ways of thinking.

A DV E N T U R O U S M I N D S

THE THREE Rs

M I N D, H E A R T, H A N D

R E A L WO R L D

Adventurous Minds are

The Three Rs, Respect for

We nurture the learning of

At Woodleigh, learning by

known, valued and

Self, Others and The

young people who can apply

doing is at our core. By

challenged by the expert

Environment, act as

their knowledge to solve real-

offering a real, meaningful

teachers and staff at

guidelines for behaviour in all

world challenges and make a

and in-context curriculum,

Woodleigh School. Here, staff

areas of Woodleigh School

difference in others’ lives. We

delivered by expert staff in

walk with students, guiding

life, with students

learn by doing, and we learn

an environment that is safe,

them to solve problems,

encouraged to employ them

socially – developing positive

supportive and respectful,

master skills, acquire

to help navigate any situation

relationships and promoting

deep, life-long learning

knowledge and develop new

they encounter.

active citizenship.

naturally occurs.

understandings.

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

69

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

71

DEVELOPING LIFELONG LEARNERS

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

BY SARAH MARINOS

72

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

73

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

75

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