From our Co-Captains

EMMA CHANDLER, PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR

We chatted to College Co-Captains, Annabelle (Annie) Hutchings and Zephyr Seignior.

For Annie Hutchings and Zephyr Seignior, their final year at College feels as though it is flying by.

“It is surreal to think that we are already halfway through 2024,” said Annie.

“It’s hard to believe how quickly it’s moving until you take a moment to realise how busy we are with all aspects of life at the College,” agreed Zephyr.

Both students are grateful for the opportunities their captaincy offers but feel particularly proud to be leading the College in its 50th year of co-education.

“I am humbled and honoured to be the female Captain at the Geelong College as we celebrate such a significant milestone in our school’s great history.

“It has been 43 years since the first female captain, Sarah Henderson, was appointed, and in her footsteps, I endeavour to lead with compassion and empathy. I want to continue to foster an environment of utmost acceptance,” said Annie.

For Zephyr, it is difficult to imagine the College being anything but an inclusive place.

“Given the profound impact of co-education on everyday life at the College and the benefits it has brought, I struggle to imagine our school as it once was - exclusive to boys.

“That, in itself, speaks volumes about how far we have progressed since the first female students started 50 years ago. It is certainly something to commemorate,” he said.

The value our students place on being part of an inclusive school environment is clear.

“Co-education was a vital, most important step for the College. As leaders, we are very grateful for the ongoing impact this change continues to have,” said Annie.

“It truly is the best way of preparing students for life, as it accurately simulates how the real world works. Students can communicate, respect and learn alongside their peersregardless of gender,” Zephyr said.

Annie reflected on the enormity of the change, and the things that contributed to its success.

“The fact that the College community was able to welcome the change with such positivity reflects the College’s adaptability and progressive nature, which is still evident today. It allows our school to continue to grow in an ever-changing world,” she said.

There is no doubt that this growth benefits our students.

“We’re fortunate to have the facilities we do. The Recreation Centre, built in 1999, has allowed for a whole new community to develop. As well as allowing APS swimming, diving and water polo, it introduced a new aspect for PE classes,” said Zephyr.

“We have also enjoyed the development of other essential learning facilities such as the Keith Humble Centre, and the brand new Belerren Centre - both of which were made possible by support from our community,” said Annie.

“The introduction of the Geelong College Rainbow Alliance a few years ago, which supports LGBTQIA+ students and allies, is another thing to be proud of.

“Each step we, as a school, take towards the future enriches the lives of current and future students and creates an enhanced learning and social experience for all,” she said.

Annie and Zephyr have big plans for the remainder of their year.

“The Prefect team hope that we can help keep the momentum going, and continue changing the school for the better,” said Zephyr.

“We hope to leave a lasting legacy on The Geelong College’s continuing stories of change,” said Annie.